Boswellia: Ancient Ally for Modern Times
Boswellia: Ancient Ally for Modern Times
One of the oldest herbs used by humankind has become the subject of much scientific research in modern times. Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) offers impressive health benefits for many body systems.
What Is It?
A resin/exudate from the Boswellia tree, also known as olibanum, used in Ayurveda and other civilizations for millenia. The tree is native to North Africa, India, and the Middle East. Traditionally it was/is used in Ayurveda for treating arthritis, ulcerative colitis, coughs, sores, wound-healing, and asthma. Modern science has shown boswellia to be an extraordinarily powerful anti-inflammatory, supporting not only localized issues such as joints, but also dampening systemic inflammation which may lead to cancer, among other diseases.
Inflammation
Boswellia reduces inflammation by suppressing the 5-Lipoxygenase enzyme (5-LOX). That enzyme, if unchecked, increases levels of inflammatory eicosanoids and leukotrienes. This is a different pathway than most other natural anti-inflammatories, such as turmeric, which work on suppressing the COX-2 enzyme.
Respiratory Benefits
Boswella’s powerful anti-inflammatory compounds may inhibit mast cell production and reduce histamine levels. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , emphysema, and bronchitis are all caused, in part, by a certain inflammatory compound, HLE, for short. Boswellia has been shown to reduce the influence/activity of this compound thereby stopping bronchial inflammation and opening bronchial airways. These actions may also reduce the damage to bronchi caused by these conditions over time.
Digestive System & More
Boswellia benefits numerous digestive conditions, including the symptoms and inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease. As well, it can help alleviate gastric ulcers and ulcerative colitis. Ajay Goel, PhD, an investigator at the Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Lab at Baylor University, is a top researcher on boswellia and curcumin. He has discovered boswellia extract to inhibit the growth of tumors in colorectal cells. It also induces DNA methylation, thereby preventing aberrant cell division. In Goel’s findings, the boswellic extract inhibited cell proliferation, decreased cancer-cell viability, and reactivated tumor-suppressing genes.
Arthritis
Perhaps best known for helping the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis, boswellia truly shines here. It has been shown to reduce the pain and stiffness in joints as a result of rheumatoid arthritis. It acts the same in osteoarthritis. It is usually combined with curcumin for this purpose, resulting in a double-whammy of anti-inflammatory power. As mentioned, boswellia inhibits the 5-LOX pathway of inflammation. Curcumin inhibits the other main pain pathway, COX-2. Together the results are extremely effective for joint pain. A combination of the two herbs was shown to be superior to the prescription arthritis (pain-relief) drug, Celebrex. In one study, 64% of the people taking the herbal combination versus 29% in the drug group improved to the extent of being able to move from “moderate-severe” arthritis to “mild-moderate” arthritis.
What We Have For You
Evergreen Nutrition and Wellness Center carries a variety of boswellia products, both singly and in formulas. In the single category, Himalaya’s Boswellia is a staff favorite, containing no fillers. Curamin from Terry Naturally has long been a best-seller. This pain formula combines boswellia and curcumin with anti-inflammatory enzyme nattokinase. Available in two strengths and multiple sizes, this gluten-free and vegan product truly gets results for safe and effective joint and muscle pain relief.
Castor Oil: A Time-Honored Remedy
Castor Oil: A Time-Honored Remedy
One of the most popular products right now in the natural products industry as well as here at Evergreen is a time-honored remedy for just about anything one can think of. For thousands of years castor oil has been used for everything from relieving menstrual cramps to easing childbirth, from alleviating constipation, liver congestion, and inflammation, to healing arthritis, skin cancer, and hepatitis. Its role in the beauty area is exploding due to viral videos on TikTok and other sites extolling its ability to moisturize skin and hair and help hair and eyelash growth.What Is It?
Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is also called Palma Christi, or “hand of Christ,” which may be a reference to its healing abilities, or possibly due to the shape of the plant’s leaves. Castor oil has been used therapeutically and described in ancient texts going back four thousand years, in ancient India, China, Persia, Egypt, and Africa. It figures prominently in many healing traditions. Physicians in 17th century Europe recommended it for both internal and external use. The American trance healer Edgar Cayce had over 500 readings recommending castor oil packs for 30 different purposes, mainly for increasing eliminations from the gastrointestinal tract, stimulating the liver/gallbladder and other organs to improve assimilation and general system functioning, healing lesions and adhesions, relief of pain, reduction of inflammation, increasing circulation of the lymphatic system, and drawing acids out of bodily tissues.
Methods For Use
Massage:
Dr. Harold Reilly suggests placing an infrared lamp about 12-18 inches above the part of the body to be massaged, rather than heating the oil itself. Apply the castor oil to the painful area, letting the lamp’s warmth penetrate and warm the oil for 5-10 minutes. Then begin rubbing the area until the oil is working in well. This process can be repeated for a maximum of one hour per session.
Castor Oil Packs:
The most commonly prescribed and most successful method of using castor oil is the pack. In addition to the purposes listed above, castor oil packs may dissolve gallstones, relieve headaches and nausea, and dissolve and remove lacteal duct adhesions. Use of the packs has been shown to stimulate lymphatic circulation as well as the immune system. In one study, a group treated with castor oil showed significant results in the total production of lymphocytes and T-11 cells. T-cell lymphocytes originate from bone marrow and the thymus gland and are small lymphocytes that identify and kill such invaders as viruses, fungi, and bacteria.
What We Have For You
Evergreen carries organic cold-pressed castor oil in dark glass bottles from Heritage and we have just brought in a new line which specializes in castor oil products.
Queen of the Thrones offers a complete line of organic, expeller-pressed golden castor oil products as well as many targeted packs for different areas of the body. This company has decided to use expeller-pressed oil as the low-heat exposure process helps to extract more oil from the castor beans, meaning a higher yield is produced, and less of the plant is wasted. While the heat generated in this method is higher than in cold pressing, it is still relatively low and the castor oil’s make-up of fatty acids is highly stable and heat-resistant. Queen of the Thrones has third-party tested their expeller-pressed oil and found it to contain all of the beneficial compounds and range of standards for high quality cold-pressed oil.
Castor oil packs are offered for areas including liver, thyroid, pelvis, and breast (two size options available). There is also a kids pack. The castor oil itself is certified organic, non-GMO, and extra virgin. In addition to the classic bottles offered, Queen of the Thrones has a lovely rose quartz roller bottle available for easy application to hard-to-reach areas of the body.
TRUVANI: Simple, Nutritious; Simply Delicious
TRUVANI: Simple, Nutritious; Simply Delicious
One standard request we have received here at Evergreen Nutrition is to carry a good snack or protein bar. Over the years we have lost some of the more popular ones we stocked and for a time we were unable to find good replacements. The wait is over, as we now carry Truvani bars and protein powders. We feel these bars are among the cleanest and healthiest options on the market right now. We will tell you a bit about Truvani and their impressive products in this newsletter.
Truvani founder Vani Hari began her company while fighting for transparency in the food industry. She believed that food should be real, without added chemicals, toxins, and cheap fillers. She insisted that food/supplement labels be absolutely transparent so customers know exactly what they are getting in their products. When she realized not everyone felt the same way, Truvani was born. With a strict adherence to using simple, whole-food ingredients (the fewer, the better), Truvani’s proteins and bars are extremely nutritious and tasty. It is all about what is not present, ingredient-wise, compared to most other options on the market.
Protein Powders
Truvani’s plant-based protein powders contain only 5-12 ingredients. They offer 20 grams of protein per serving. They are 100% certified organic and non-GMO, with no gluten, dairy, or soy. The base blend consists of pea, pumpkin seed, and chia seed proteins. Many people dislike stevia, and Truvani listened. The powders are sweetened with only organic monk fruit extract (lo han guo). In addition, there are no gums. Flavors we carry include Vanilla, Chocolate, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. Powders come in two sizes in resealable bags.
Bars
Already a hit with staff and customers alike, Truvani’s bars also contain simple, whole-food ingredients. Based on dates and nuts such as almond, peanut, and cashew, they contain between 5-7 grams of protein and between 20-24 grams of carbohydrates. Sweetened with organic maple syrup or coconut sugar (except the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip flavor which contains cane sugar), they contain no sugar-alcohols (xylitol, maltitol), gums, oils, or lecithin. Flavors include Mint Chocolate, Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Peanut Butter. Like the protein powders, they are free of gluten, soy, and dairy.
Truvani products are not yet on our website, please stop by or call the store for more information.
Bioray: Detox for Kids
Bioray: Detox for Kids
Life in the 21st century is rife with unavoidable toxins. Air pollution, heavy metals, pesticides/herbicides/hormones in our food and drinking water, even personal care products chock full of endocrine disruptors and other nasty chemicals are everywhere we turn. Some more sources of toxins are vaccinations, including flu shots, cleaning products, fire-retardant, and lawn fertilizers. If the body cannot eliminate these toxins, they are stored in body fat and accumulate over time. This accumulation can have a multitude of undesirable effects on the body including an inability to absorb nutrients. Toxins also negatively impact physical, emotional, and mental health contributing to: unreasonable anger, frustration and anxiety, fatigue and mental exhaustion, fluctuations with moods and unhealthy habits, insomnia, an inability to focus, stay alert, and concentrate, digestive disturbances, and environmental and food sensitivities. Another insidious toxin threat is that of mycotoxins, metabolites or by-products of molds. They have toxic side effects to other plants, as well as animals and humans.
There is help with the toxin threat in the form of detoxification. Removing these toxins and providing nourishment to organs is essential to health. Fortunately there is a special line of products meticulously designed for broad-spectrum detoxification. Bioray was formulated by naturopath Stephanie Ray over 30 years ago, and has several product lines. We will look at the Bioray Kids product line which we have brought in and are pleased to add to our children’s section.
Bioray Kids
The Bioray Kids line was developed for children from ages 1-12 years with mild imbalances due to toxins. They are liquid drops based in glycerin which makes them taste sweet, and they are naturally flavored. They can be used long-term, or simply as needed.
In children, toxins block a child’s ability to absorb nutrients and negatively impact developmental processes causing: angry outbursts, frustration, fatigue/sluggishness, fluctuations of moods/behavior, difficulty pooping, and an inability to focus/concentrate. All Bioray Kids formulas are based around NDF—Natural Detox Factors—micronized, broken cell-wall chlorella which is proven to bind to toxins and heavy metals and carry them out of the body. Bioray’s NDF has been clinically tested and shown to provoke up to 400% increased excretion of mixed heavy metals in urine. In addition they contain whole plant blends of herbs, chiefly components of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and medicinal mushrooms. In addition to their targeted organ support, all Bioray Kids products support healthy immune function in various ways. All products are produced in the USA and Bioray controls all aspects of manufacturing, from fermentation using their proprietary probiotic blends, to tincturing, to their unique micronization process ensuring complete breakdown and assimilation of the constituents.
The Formulas
NDF Calm
Binds to and removes toxins and has additional ingredients that nourish the liver to help kids keep calm and carry on. Parents notice improved moods, emotional balance, restful sleep, and that their kids are better able to handle stress.ALCOHOL FREE • NON-GMO • VEGAN • GLUTEN FREE • SOY FREE • DAIRY FREE • NUT FREE
NDF Happy
Removes toxins and unwanted organisms that can trigger irritability and angry outbursts. Parents notice their kids have a decrease in unreasonable anger, fewer sugary and fried food cravings, and no itchy rectum.ALCOHOL FREE • NON-GMO • VEGAN • GLUTEN FREE • SOY FREE • DAIRY FREE
NDF Focus
Binds to and removes toxins and has additional ingredients that sharpen the mind and promote steady, focused energy. Parents notice their kids have clearer thinking, balanced energy, and an improved ability to stay on task. Cognitive and adrenal function are improved.ALCOHOL FREE • NON-GMO • VEGETARIAN • GLUTEN FREE • SOY FREE • NON-DAIRY • NUT FREE
NDF Tummy
Binds to and removes toxins, supports gastrointestinal and immune function, and enhances speech. Parents notice improved speech and communication, and a decrease in stomach aches. Also helps immune response in the GI tract, supports the gut/brain connection, and cleans up toxins.ALCOHOL FREE • NON-GMO • VEGETARIAN • GLUTEN FREE • SOY FREE • NON-DAIRY • NUT FREE
Bioray products are not yet on our website, please stop by or call the store for more information.
Ancient Nutrition: Superfoods for the 21st Century
Ancient Nutrition: Superfoods for the 21st Century
Evergreen Nutrition has recently brought in a unique line we are proud to carry. Ancient Nutrition’s pedigree is outstanding, as founder and CEO Jordan Rubin (on right) is very well-known as a New York Times best-selling author and the founder in 1999 of Garden of Life. He also formulated their original products, many of which have become revered in the natural products industry. Ancient Nutrition’s co-founder, Dr. Josh Axe (on left), in addition to medical and chiropractic degrees, is a best-selling author of several books on natural health.
Rubin and Axe together not only run the company and formulate the products, but oversee the Ancient Nutrition Center for Regenerative Agriculture and the 4000-acre Beyond Organic Ranch in Tennessee. They are committed to regenerative farming practices and the ranch and farm are Regenerative Organic Certified, ensuring the soil is nourished, replenished, and maintains microbial diversity. In addition, Ancient Nutrition’s practices include commitments to animal welfare, social fairness, and even sustainable packaging. Their bottles are biodegradable, made from sugar cane. They dedicate 1% of all revenue to their R.A.N.C.H. Project, which supports their commitment to regenerative agriculture, nutrition, and climate health.
Superfoods & Beyond
Ancient Nutrition’s focus is on nutritionally-dense superfoods, whether plant-based or animal-derived. They specialize in collagen and glandular products, espousing paleo-diet ideals. This does not mean they do not have vegan products, as in addition to their collagen products they offer plant-based proteins and greens formulas. Their herb and mushroom products are in a class of their own. For example, all of their mushrooms are grown on sprouted purple corn, resulting in a product chock-full of anthocyanins, the purple pigment giving blueberries their powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant punch. Their certified organic turmeric features three varieties of this exalted herb, all grown on myceliated turkey tail mushroom for even more health benefits.
Next Level Collagen
Ancient Nutrition’s collagen products are among the best-selling in the country, and they continue to add new products to raise the bar. Their new line of Multi Collagen Advanced products features 10 types of collagen in each new formula yielding 20-30 grams of collagen per serving. Along with grass-fed bovine collagen are bone broth concentrates, fermented eggshell membrane, and a blend of grass-fed organs for a complete connective tissue tonic. Your joints and skin will be ready for anything the environment and aging can throw at them! The Lean formula contains an herbal blend to assist fat loss, the Detox version contains a liver detoxification herbal blend featuring milk thistle and reishi mushroom, and the Hydrate formula features Spanish red cave salt and red marine algae for important electrolytes/trace minerals.
SBOs
One of the great stories from the natural products industry involves founder Jordan Rubin’s health journey as a young man. Suffering from severe Crohn’s disease and numerous other digestive disorders which nearly killed him, he was only able to regain health when he discovered soil-based organisms (SBOs). It was from this experience that Garden of Life was born, with its early emphasis on SBOs. In the 25 years since then Jordan has researched these bacterial strains and their profound benefits extensively and they are an important part of Ancient Nutrition’s core. These strains, such as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans are extremely hardy organisms, covered by a natural protective spore enabling them to survive stomach acid and make their unfettered way to the lower GI system where they may work. Ancient Nutrition’s line of probiotics is based on these SBOs, along with other classic friendly bacteria more familiar to people. Each formula also contains a superfood blend containing various organic mushrooms (maitake, reishi, chaga) which further support the gut microbiome. In addition, they contain prebiotics (fuel for probiotics) and post-biotics (beneficial byproducts). All of these new probiotics are vegan, free of gluten and soy and all other common allergens, and of course are certified organic and non-GMO.What We Have For You
Ancient Nutrition’s product line does not appear on our website, but feel free to call the store or stop in for more information on these products.
Intermittent Fasting for Healthy Weight Loss
Intermittent Fasting for Healthy Weight Loss
Fasting is far from being a new concept. For millennia, people have undergone fasts of some kind for various reasons. Modern nutritional science has shown that fasting can have multiple physiological benefits and improve many undesirable conditions. In this newsletter we will discuss the concept of “intermittent fasting” specifically for weight loss, and how one may do this successfully with some help from a renowned supplement company.What is Intermittent Fasting?
As its name implies, intermittent fasting is a method of fasting only occasionally with enough time between the fasts that it is not taxing to the body. Intermittent fasting means that you don’t eat for a period of time each day or week. Some popular approaches to intermittent fasting include alternate-day fasting: eat a normal diet one day and either completely fast or have one small meal (less than 500 calories) the next day. Also: eating during a 12-hour window every day (between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., for example) and fasting for the other 12 hours. Eating during an 8-hour window every day (between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., for example) and fasting for the other 16 hours.Benefits of Fasting
As far as healthy weight loss, some studies suggest that alternate-day fasting is as effective as a typical low-calorie diet. Reducing the number of calories you consume should help you lose weight. Research also suggests that intermittent fasting may be more beneficial than other diets for reducing inflammation. That reduction can improve associated conditions such as arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Other benefits in addition to healthy weight loss may include healthy energy levels, brain health, and healthy aging.Unpleasant Effects
Some people may be more sensitive than others with regard to side-effects from attempting a fast. Some side effects may include hunger, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, and headaches.Challenges to Consider
It is important when fasting for any length of time to consider a few things. 1) Adequate hydration, including intake of electrolytes (dehydration), 2) satiety – hunger causing too much of a challenge to proceed with a fast, and 3) lean muscle loss – any ongoing caloric restriction can cause muscle loss. Fortunately, there is help from the digestion supplement experts: Enzymedica.
Fasting Today
Enzymedica is the leading digestive products company in the supplement industry. Their products are research-driven and clinically tested to work. Their latest launch is called Fasting Today, a powder product designed to aid in intermittent fasting for weight-loss. It is formulated to support the three challenges in a fast without breaking the fast. Containing only three ingredients: electrolytes, baobab fiber, and amino acids, it is a deceptively simple yet effective formula. Electrolytes promote hydration and support healthy cell and organ function. They are ideal for pre and post exercise or daily intake. Fasting Today includes an electrolyte complex (sodium chloride, potassium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide) plus calcium carbonate. While fasting, electrolytes can help you maintain optimal hydration, while also supporting cardiovascular and brain function and helping to minimize cramping.
Organic wild harvested baobab fruit is considered by many to be the greatest raw whole food on Earth. Sustainably harvested in Africa aiding women harvesters and positively supporting small communities, this fruit provides exceptional soluble and insoluble fiber to support hunger and regularity, as well as an abundance of polyphenols. Baobab fiber promotes satiety – especially helpful when it’s not yet time to eat – without breaking your fast.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and nine of them are considered essential. Fasting Today includes a blend of these essential amino acids to support muscle strength and body composition, and promote muscle protein synthesis. The amino acid complex in Fasting Today includes a proprietary blend of L-Leucine, L-Lysine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Methionine, L-Histidine, L-Tryptophan to keep your muscles strong and healthy.
What We Have For You
This exciting new product — Enzymedica‘s Fasting Today — is located in our Weight Management section and is free of all common allergens including gluten. It is vegan and is suitable for ketogenic diets. Let Evergreen help you attain/maintain your ideal healthy weight goals in 2024.
Moringa: A Superfood with Well-Deserved Hype
Moringa: A Superfood with Well-Deserved Hype
If there were an entry in the encyclopedia for Superfood, it would undoubtedly have a photo of the subject of this newsletter. Moringa has been trending for several years and its hype is well-deserved. Generally lumped into the Green Foods category along with spirulina and barley grass, moringa has decidedly more “going on” than its fellows in that category.What Is It?
Moringa oleifera is an evergreen plant native to India but also found widely across Africa and Asia in tropical and subtropical climates. It has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal properties. Generally the leaves are used, although the bark, roots, seeds, fruit, flowers, and pods are all edible. It has many nicknames, including “drumstick tree” and “never-die,” alluding to its many properties as well as its evergreen leaves. The tree is able to survive with very little water and so is important in drought-stricken areas as a source of food for malnourished/famine-struck populations. It is planted by farmers to restore soils, filter water, and help replenish nutrients in soil. In India, it has been integral to the Ayurvedic medical system for millenia. In Asia it has been used for ages to support heart, blood, liver, respiratory, and skin health.
Nutritional Aspects
The leaves of moringa are the most nutrient-dense. They contain all of the essential amino acids, making them a very protein-rich food source. They are also full of vitamins, minerals, and phyto-nutrients. Antioxidants include quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol, all powerful compounds. Research into moringa shows that some of these substances have broad-ranging effects: antidiabetic, antitumor, anti-ulcer, anti-epileptic, and antispasmodic.
Broad-Ranging Effects
Moringa’s antibacterial and antifungal effects help with maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, also supporting healthy digestion and assimilation of nutrients. It has been shown to possess marked anti-inflammatory activity, suppressing inflammatory cytokines and other markers. Moringa’s high levels of polyphenols may support liver function and detoxification pathways. A study in Food and Chemical Toxicology found moringa to reverse oxidation in the liver and reduce fibrosis and liver damage. Research has shown moringa’s roots, leaves, and fruit all to be highly anti-inflammatory. They contain substances that inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines. The Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention reported that moringa leaf extract suppressed growth of cancer cells and induced cell death in some cancers. The high antioxidant profile content of moringa may help with prevention of neuron oxidation and support brain health. The Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice published a study suggesting that moringa has potential as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Through its content of amino acids and other nutrients, moringa may stabilize neurotransmitters in the brain and thereby improve mood. Moringa is also under investigation for its role in blood-sugar health, as it contains compounds that hinder the ability to raise blood-sugar. This may be of importance in people with pre-diabetic conditions.What We Have For You
Evergreen Nutrition carries several moringa products. Organic India has an organic, non-GMO, vegan capsule with a 700 mg dose. Irwin Naturals offers a 1,000 mg moringa softgel in a blend of healthy oils for absorption. From Host Defense comes Greens, a powder featuring organic moringa with lion’s mane mushroom and nettle, making this an extraordinarily antioxidant/mineral-rich and nutritious superfood blend.
Zembrin for Mood & Wellbeing
Zembrin for Mood & Wellbeing
The term “panacea” refers to a substance which is good for all (ailments/conditions). Throughout history, some well-deserving plants/herbs have acquired this label. A relative newcomer to the west, but used traditionally in its native South Africa for centuries, kanna was/is seen as a panacea by the indigenous tribes.What is Zembrin?
Sceletium tortuosum, or kanna, is a succulent plant found in dry, arid regions of South Africa. Historically the plant was used by the native San and Khoikhoi tribes to curb their thirst and appetite when going into battle, to fight fatigue, as a euphoric, and for diverse healing and spiritual applications. It has been used for abdominal pains, toothache, a painkiller for headache, and for the respiratory tract. Traditionally it was simply chewed, but can be used as a tea or even smoked. “Zembrin” is the trademarked name for the nutritional supplement version available, and for this article we will use that name interchangeably with kanna.
Compounds & Actions
Zembrin has been extensively studied and has been shown to be antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. However, its novel alkaloid compounds are responsible for its profound ability to support a sense of well-being for anxiety, depression, and stressed individuals. Studies in rats and humans concluded the plant’s chemicals act on a number of central nervous system targets. As well as having an effect on serotonin reuptake and other mood chemicals, it is able to reduce levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.Mood & Well-Being
Through its complex action on brain chemistry, Zembrin accomplishes a multitude of beneficial effects. It acts as an SSRI, freeing up serotonin in the brain and thereby raising mood and acting as an antidepressant, with no side-effects. Its cortisol-normalizing activity makes it an effective anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) compound, relieving stress of all sorts. Traditionally kanna was given to expectant mothers to help them relax before going into labor, and also was used as a mild tranquilizer for children, to calm teething babies, and help induce sleep. The amygdala is the section of the brain involved in the fight or flight response to stress. Studies have shown that even a single dose of Zembrin reduced anxiety-related amygdala activity in the brain. Other studies have shown decreases in anxiety, improved cognition, and enhanced moods.
Other Facets
As mentioned, the native tribes of South Africa used kanna spiritually as well. Kanna educator Phoebe McPherson has been studying the plant for its empathogenic properties. Empathogens are substances which increase feelings of love, empathy, and connection. They may help one connect quickly and deeply, helping you feel happier and less stressed in the process. She says kanna may be a safe avenue to explore for relief for those struggling with feelings of disconnection from others, or addiction.
What We Have For You
Evergreen Nutrition has already had tremendous positive feedback on this new addition to our shelves. We offer two products at this time, the original Zembrin from Source Naturals, a 25 mg vegan tablet free of all common allergens including gluten, and Calm & Focus from Now, a blend of Zembrin with GABA. This product is touted for cognitive support but may also be an effective supplement for mood and anxiety issues. Sleep may also benefit from the combination as GABA is required for normal, healthy sleep patterns in humans. Calm & Focus is vegan and gluten free and is located in our Mood section along with Zembrin.
Healthy Brain Development & Focus
Healthy Brain Development & Focus
With September comes back-to-school time, and kids must shift their brains from leisure and relaxation to attention and focus on their classes and studies. Some children have an easier time than others at concentrating on schoolwork, but regardless of their attention spans there are some integral nutritional supplements from which all kids may benefit.Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)
Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are termed this for a reason since they are absolutely necessary for health and cannot be manufactured by the body. Every cell in the body has a requirement for these fats and the list of their functions is too long to list here. The most well-known benefits are as anti-inflammatories and for brain health. Sixty percent of our brains are composed of fat, so the next time your child calls their sibling a fathead, rest assured that it is not an insult!
The primary fat in the brain is the omega-3 fatty acid Docosahexaenoic Acid, known as DHA for short, and it is so vital to child brain development that it is a primary constituent of human breast milk. This fatty acid is linked to cerebral development during pregnancy and in the first few months after birth. Breast-fed babies have been shown to have proven IQ advantages over babies fed formula without DHA. As children grow older, they can benefit from DHA contributing to optimal memory function, visual acuity and maintaining a positive mental state. Omega-3 fats have been shown to improve verbal speech, attention, and learning and behavioral skills in children. There is persuasive evidence that children with ADHD have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids and studies have confirmed that maladjusted children have significantly lower EFA blood levels as well. DHA is found famously in fish oil, and a wide range of supplements is available including a vegan source from algae which is where the fish obtain this fat.
Flax oil is a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids also, and although not containing DHA, it does contain a precursor fat which the body may convert into DHA. For optimal levels of DHA, it may be wise to choose a DHA supplement in order to make sure the body is easily supplied.
Beyond Omega-3
Another brain-supporting nutrient is phosphatidylserine, or PS, a naturally-occurring component of cell membranes. PS has been involved in numerous clinical trials showing improved mental processes such as learning and remembering information and maintaining concentration. Most people have heard of the herb Ginkgo biloba with relation to brain health, but there are also lesser-known botanicals which may benefit learning and concentration/focus in children. An herb from India, bacopa, has been used in that country’s medical tradition for millenia. Bacopa has been clinically proven to support brain function with faster information processing, increased learning rates and reduced test anxiety. Additional studies have shown bacopa to significantly reduce ADHD symptoms in children. Bacopa is traditionally used by students as young as six years old to enhance mental function and thus do better in school. This herb has a long, safe history.Greek Mountain Tea
Greek Mountain Tea
Evergreen Nutrition strives to carry the finest nutritional supplement companies available to retail stores. From time to time one of our partnered companies will launch a new product which warrants our attention. One company we have tremendous respect for is Europharma/Terry Naturally. Founder Terry Lemerond has decades of experience at the helm of some of the most popular and respected companies in our industry. One area in which Terry shines is research. He has been responsible for introducing dozens of unique products to the retail market. Have you ever heard of glucosamine sulfate? The reason you have is due to Terry, who introduced it to the US market in 1992. Recently Mr. Lemerond and Terry Naturally have released a new, previously unavailable product to shelves and we are excited to tell you about it.
Greek Mountain Tea
Greek mountain tea (Sideritis scardica) is native to the Mediterranean (Greece and Albania). In that part of the world it has been traditionally consumed as a beverage to increase mental and physical endurance. As its name implies, it grows at altitude, in harsh conditions, and this environment contributes to its novel protective/antioxidant compounds. Research has shown this botanical to provide numerous health benefits ranging from brain support including protection from Alzheimer’s and depression, to liver detoxification, to immune support.Brain Support
One placebo-controlled, double-blind study tested Greek mountain tea (GMT) against Ginkgo biloba to assess its benefits for cognition. Results showed that the GMT provided significant and stronger benefits than the Ginkgo extract. There were better accuracy and higher scores for processing visual information while under pressure, less anxiety, and improved circulation in the part of the brain involved in learning and working memory. GMT also appears to inhibit the reuptake of key neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenalin. This has potential for treating symptoms of depression and attention-deficit conditions. One of the most exciting bits of research shows that certain compounds in the plant can decrease amyloid beta formation, one of the major characteristics in Alzheimer’s disease. A study from 2016 confirmed highly enhanced cognitive function in elderly lab animals, implying that GMT “might be a potent, well-tolerated option for treating symptoms of cognitive impairment in the elderly.” GMT also improves blood flow to the brain significantly more than Ginkgo, which may be a reason for its effectiveness on cognition, stress, and alertness.
Antioxidant/Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
GMT contains powerful polyphenol compounds including novel antioxidants which are partly responsible for its properties. While not deemed a classic adaptogen, GMT seems to promote physical stamina without caffeine or jitters. In its native Greece, it has been traditionally consumed by shepherds in the mountains to support resilience, stamina, and alertness in harsh conditions. It has been used to combat respiratory illnesses and winter colds and flu. Modern research has shown enhanced immune function, anti-inflammatory properties benefitting joint pain, increased bone density, and improved digestive health. Chemical analyses have shown the plant to be a wealth of well-known antioxidants/nutrients including apigenin, quercetin, and caffeic acid. Its antioxidant score is higher than blueberries, a benchmark for that rating. It is a rich source of iron, among other minerals, and has been used to treat anemia, further supporting energy levels.