Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) April 28, 2007 -- Skin care and acupuncture normally don't go together but in Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Cosmetic Acupuncture: An Alternative to Plastic Surgery?" there are exceptions to the rule. http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=297
According to the article, cosmetic acupuncture is the latest rage with the world's top celebrities:
Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cher and many others have allegedly turned to an age-old treatment, which replaces the traditional facelift - Cosmetic Acupuncture, which is also known as "acupuncture facial rejuvenation" or an "acupuncture facelift."
For those who are wary of going under the knife, this new procedure may be a more welcome option:
Rather than cutting the skin or using harsh chemical peels, acupuncture provides more subtle results that are noticed over time. How does it work? A practitioner will insert tiny, thin needles into wrinkles and frown lines. The needles stimulate energy to flow around the face; blood rushes to the surface, and the muscles relax. The muscles then tighten, which decreases sagging of facial skin. The needles also stimulate the cells to create new collagen fibers under wrinkles, filling in fine lines.
While the prices for this procedure vary, it is still important to take time when finding the right person to perform the job:
When searching for a practitioner, be wary to choose someone with a license who has studied with a qualified teacher, and is part of the American cosmetic acupuncture association.
According to the Skincare News Team's sources, this new trend is bound to stick around for some time but it's always better to play it safe and do research on the subject before committing to the treatments.
Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles . www.bestroyaljelly.co.uk
Monday, April 30, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Skin Care Mistakes: How to Keep Your Skincare Safe From Premature Aging
Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) April 26, 2007 -- Skin care and anti-aging take some time to master but some bad habits may be defeating the purpose. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Facial and Skin Care Faux Pas: How You May be Adding Years to Your Face", shows lists some of these behaviors as well as solutions to keeping your face looking young.
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=296
Practicing facial expressions were once believed to be a good thing but as the article points out, that couldn't be farther from the truth:
Contrary to popular belief, these very facial exercises can lead to early fine lines and wrinkles. Every time you make a certain facial expression, a groove forms beneath the skin's surface. As you get older and your skin begins to slack and lose elasticity, the grooves become permanently embedded in your skin.
Although it may seem obvious, smoking is one way to add more years to your face:
Skincare studies have also shown that individuals, who have smoked for a long time, tend to develop leathery and deeply wrinkled skin, compared to those who never smoked. So if you light up, just know that with each puff, you're sending your journey into old age at warp speed and should quit as soon as you can.
Even certain sleeping habits have been found to add signs of aging to your complexion:
If you continuously rest your face on your pillow the same way for nights in a row, your sleep lines won't disappear once your head is off the pillow. Instead they form into wrinkles. For women who sleep on their sides, these sleep lines often appear on their chin and cheeks, while men tend to get these lines on their foreheads, since a majority of men press their face down into the pillow when they sleep.
According to the Skincare News Team's sources, breaking these bad habits will keep anyone looking young and healthy for years to come.
Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:
"Skin Care & Beauty Basics - Part 1: Get to First Base…Foundation, That Is"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=257
Too many women are intimidated by makeup and skin care. They say practice makes perfect so why not give it a shot? Put your makeup fears aside and check out these tips to help you get the flawless look you've been craving.
"Growing Impatient With the Hands of Time"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=254
Do you feel as if you have done everything you can to improve your skincare, and yet you are still battling the years on your skin? Your problem may be solved more simply than you think!
"The Aging Neck…Skincare's Forgotten Frontier!"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=258
Ever notice how the older we get the more often we choose a scarf or turtleneck to wear? Let's be honest, we're not doing it to be fashion forward. From now on, let's solve the problem of that aging neck, and not by hiding it behind knit and silk. Read this article and find out a few ways other than plastic surgery to start sporting a firm, beautiful, and glowing neck. Who wants to look like a turkey, when you can look like a swan?
"Skin Care & Beauty Basics - Part 3: How to Be a Powder Puff Girl!"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=260
Powder is the finishing touch after applying the rest of your makeup. Read on to see how you can make the most out of the powder you use and learn tips to help you get it right every time.
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=296
Practicing facial expressions were once believed to be a good thing but as the article points out, that couldn't be farther from the truth:
Contrary to popular belief, these very facial exercises can lead to early fine lines and wrinkles. Every time you make a certain facial expression, a groove forms beneath the skin's surface. As you get older and your skin begins to slack and lose elasticity, the grooves become permanently embedded in your skin.
Although it may seem obvious, smoking is one way to add more years to your face:
Skincare studies have also shown that individuals, who have smoked for a long time, tend to develop leathery and deeply wrinkled skin, compared to those who never smoked. So if you light up, just know that with each puff, you're sending your journey into old age at warp speed and should quit as soon as you can.
Even certain sleeping habits have been found to add signs of aging to your complexion:
If you continuously rest your face on your pillow the same way for nights in a row, your sleep lines won't disappear once your head is off the pillow. Instead they form into wrinkles. For women who sleep on their sides, these sleep lines often appear on their chin and cheeks, while men tend to get these lines on their foreheads, since a majority of men press their face down into the pillow when they sleep.
According to the Skincare News Team's sources, breaking these bad habits will keep anyone looking young and healthy for years to come.
Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:
"Skin Care & Beauty Basics - Part 1: Get to First Base…Foundation, That Is"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=257
Too many women are intimidated by makeup and skin care. They say practice makes perfect so why not give it a shot? Put your makeup fears aside and check out these tips to help you get the flawless look you've been craving.
"Growing Impatient With the Hands of Time"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=254
Do you feel as if you have done everything you can to improve your skincare, and yet you are still battling the years on your skin? Your problem may be solved more simply than you think!
"The Aging Neck…Skincare's Forgotten Frontier!"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=258
Ever notice how the older we get the more often we choose a scarf or turtleneck to wear? Let's be honest, we're not doing it to be fashion forward. From now on, let's solve the problem of that aging neck, and not by hiding it behind knit and silk. Read this article and find out a few ways other than plastic surgery to start sporting a firm, beautiful, and glowing neck. Who wants to look like a turkey, when you can look like a swan?
"Skin Care & Beauty Basics - Part 3: How to Be a Powder Puff Girl!"
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=260
Powder is the finishing touch after applying the rest of your makeup. Read on to see how you can make the most out of the powder you use and learn tips to help you get it right every time.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Pure Fresh English Royal Jelly (50g)
Pure Fresh English Royal Jelly is 100% Natural Royal Jelly and is Fresh not Freeze-dried.
Freeze- died is used in most skin preparations, capsules and lozenges and looses all of its natural energy in the process.
Our Royal Jelly is gathered using traditional methods and in no way harms the Bees.
Royal Jelly has long been credited with miraculous rejuvenating and regenerating properties. Legends tell of Oriental potentates who enjoyed renewed sexual powers and lived remarkably long lives with a diet of Royal Jelly. Our Fresh Royal Jelly contains an abundance of Pantothenic acid a nutrient singled out in studies as having a longevity factor. Included in the complex structure of Royal Jelly is an antibiotic a quarter as active as penicillin but without the side effects. Its rich in vitamins A C D & E
Royal Jelly revives and stimulates the function of cells and the secretion of glands. It also steps up the metabolism and stimulates the circulatory system.
Royal Jelly is a hormone balancer and can help hormone related acne, migraine headaches, fluid retention, menopausal hot flushes, morning sickness and postnatal depression
Authorative sources now believe it is the interplay of all the complex factors present in Royal Jelly that work to preserve life and delay the aging process by retaining for as long as possible the physical freshness of the body, elasticity of mind and psychic buoyancy of youth.
Royal Jelly is the food secreted by the worker Bees which is given to the growing Queen larvae.
It contains vitamins, types of hormones and other revivifying substances.
It has a really complex structure. The effects of Royal Jelly on the Bees is nothing short of miraculous.
Royal Jelly can help keep your cholesterol down.
Royal Jelly also steps up the metabolism and stimulates the circulatory system
Royal Jelly contains aspartic acid and mineral silica both of which protect the nervous system. Royal Jelly could benefit those with MS
Recommended dosage ¼ teaspoon daily. Mix with cereal or Yoghurt.
Freeze- died is used in most skin preparations, capsules and lozenges and looses all of its natural energy in the process.
Our Royal Jelly is gathered using traditional methods and in no way harms the Bees.
Royal Jelly has long been credited with miraculous rejuvenating and regenerating properties. Legends tell of Oriental potentates who enjoyed renewed sexual powers and lived remarkably long lives with a diet of Royal Jelly. Our Fresh Royal Jelly contains an abundance of Pantothenic acid a nutrient singled out in studies as having a longevity factor. Included in the complex structure of Royal Jelly is an antibiotic a quarter as active as penicillin but without the side effects. Its rich in vitamins A C D & E
Royal Jelly revives and stimulates the function of cells and the secretion of glands. It also steps up the metabolism and stimulates the circulatory system.
Royal Jelly is a hormone balancer and can help hormone related acne, migraine headaches, fluid retention, menopausal hot flushes, morning sickness and postnatal depression
Authorative sources now believe it is the interplay of all the complex factors present in Royal Jelly that work to preserve life and delay the aging process by retaining for as long as possible the physical freshness of the body, elasticity of mind and psychic buoyancy of youth.
Royal Jelly is the food secreted by the worker Bees which is given to the growing Queen larvae.
It contains vitamins, types of hormones and other revivifying substances.
It has a really complex structure. The effects of Royal Jelly on the Bees is nothing short of miraculous.
Royal Jelly can help keep your cholesterol down.
Royal Jelly also steps up the metabolism and stimulates the circulatory system
Royal Jelly contains aspartic acid and mineral silica both of which protect the nervous system. Royal Jelly could benefit those with MS
Recommended dosage ¼ teaspoon daily. Mix with cereal or Yoghurt.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Harvesting Royal Jelly
Royal Jelly - Here is the procedure How to harvest Royal Jelly:
* First you need a bee family without a queen!
* Give them a frame with added piece of wood with special cells.
* In these cells put 20 to 36 hours old bee larvas.
Because bees cannot live without their queen they try to raise a new one. They feed larvas with a lot of royal jelly, trying to make new queens.
* After 48 to 52 hours take these added cells away and take the royal jelly away with a special spoon
* Put new cells with larvas in the hive and bees will fill it again.
* Freeze harvested royal jelly and keep it in a dark room.
* First you need a bee family without a queen!
* Give them a frame with added piece of wood with special cells.
* In these cells put 20 to 36 hours old bee larvas.
Because bees cannot live without their queen they try to raise a new one. They feed larvas with a lot of royal jelly, trying to make new queens.
* After 48 to 52 hours take these added cells away and take the royal jelly away with a special spoon
* Put new cells with larvas in the hive and bees will fill it again.
* Freeze harvested royal jelly and keep it in a dark room.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
PROPOLIS Powerful, Natural Antibiotic
What is Propolis?
Honeybees gather propolis, a resin, from tree bark and leaves. They combine this resin with nectar, creating a mix of wax, pollen and bee bread. They then use this substance to seal their hives, protecting it from outside contaminants. They also use propolis at the entrance to the hive to sterilize themselves as they come and go.
Ancient Healer
While propolis is just now enjoying a rediscovery, its usefulness can be traced back to the time of Hippocrates, who used it to heal sores and ulcers, internally and externally. Through the ages historical documents record its use. Culpepper's Complete Herbal refers to ointments of Propolis for inflammation and fever. In WWII, it was used by the Soviet Union to treat battle wounds. Proppolis is an excellent natural antibiotic and immune system booster.
Nature's Penicillin
Synthetic antibiotics carry with them side effects - propolis, a natural antibiotic, has no such side effects. Propolis has also been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to synthetic antibiotics.
Active Compounds
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A. Dr. K. Lund Aagaard who is considered a well qualified authority on propolis has said, "Nineteen substances of different chemical structure have been identified so far." These compounds include a number of substances which belong to the flavonoid family including betulene and isovanillin.
Vitmain and Mineral Content
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
According to researchers at the Second Leningrad Scientific Conference on the Application of Apiculture (bee culture) in Medicine, Bee Propolis is rich in:
* Vitmin A (carotene)
* Vitamin B1
* Vitamin B2
* Vitamin B3
* biotin
* an array of bioflavonoids
* albumin
* calcium
* magnesium
* iron
* zinc
* silica
* potassium
* phosphorus
* manganese
* cobalt
* copper
NOTE: Propolis contains 500 more bioflavonoids (vitamin P) than is found in oranges.
Except for vitamin K, Propolis has all the known vitamins. Of the fourteen minerals required by the body, Propolis contains them all with the exception of sulfur.
Propolis is comprised of 50 percent to 70 percent resins and balsams, 30 percent to 50 percent wax, 5 percent to 10 percent Bee Pollen and 10 percent essential oils.
Like Royal Jelly and Bee Pollen, Propolis also contains a number of unidentified compounds which work together synergistically to create a perfectly balanced, nutritive substance.
Amino Acids
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
Sixteen amino acids have been identified in Propolis.
Character:
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
antibacterial, antiviral, antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
Honeybees gather propolis, a resin, from tree bark and leaves. They combine this resin with nectar, creating a mix of wax, pollen and bee bread. They then use this substance to seal their hives, protecting it from outside contaminants. They also use propolis at the entrance to the hive to sterilize themselves as they come and go.
Ancient Healer
While propolis is just now enjoying a rediscovery, its usefulness can be traced back to the time of Hippocrates, who used it to heal sores and ulcers, internally and externally. Through the ages historical documents record its use. Culpepper's Complete Herbal refers to ointments of Propolis for inflammation and fever. In WWII, it was used by the Soviet Union to treat battle wounds. Proppolis is an excellent natural antibiotic and immune system booster.
Nature's Penicillin
Synthetic antibiotics carry with them side effects - propolis, a natural antibiotic, has no such side effects. Propolis has also been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to synthetic antibiotics.
Active Compounds
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A. Dr. K. Lund Aagaard who is considered a well qualified authority on propolis has said, "Nineteen substances of different chemical structure have been identified so far." These compounds include a number of substances which belong to the flavonoid family including betulene and isovanillin.
Vitmain and Mineral Content
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
According to researchers at the Second Leningrad Scientific Conference on the Application of Apiculture (bee culture) in Medicine, Bee Propolis is rich in:
* Vitmin A (carotene)
* Vitamin B1
* Vitamin B2
* Vitamin B3
* biotin
* an array of bioflavonoids
* albumin
* calcium
* magnesium
* iron
* zinc
* silica
* potassium
* phosphorus
* manganese
* cobalt
* copper
NOTE: Propolis contains 500 more bioflavonoids (vitamin P) than is found in oranges.
Except for vitamin K, Propolis has all the known vitamins. Of the fourteen minerals required by the body, Propolis contains them all with the exception of sulfur.
Propolis is comprised of 50 percent to 70 percent resins and balsams, 30 percent to 50 percent wax, 5 percent to 10 percent Bee Pollen and 10 percent essential oils.
Like Royal Jelly and Bee Pollen, Propolis also contains a number of unidentified compounds which work together synergistically to create a perfectly balanced, nutritive substance.
Amino Acids
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
Sixteen amino acids have been identified in Propolis.
Character:
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
antibacterial, antiviral, antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
What's the buzz on beekeeping?
As spring comes to Rock Hill, bees have begun to buzz. Across the nation, these workers have made national headlines because of an unknown disorder that is killing hives. Herald intern and Winthrop University student Adam MacInnis tells how he got into be
By Adam MacInnis · The Herald - Updated 04/10/07 - 12:26 AM
About six years ago, I picked up the newspaper and read that the Clemson Extension Office was offering a course on beekeeping.
Pure Royal Jelly
I was home-schooled at the time and a little bored, so I thought, "Why not?"
Taking the course was a great experience from start to finish. Through it, I learned what incredibly complex creatures bees are.
For example, in order for bee eggs to hatch, a hive must be kept around 90 degrees. So in summer, some of the bees will fan their wings to keep it cool. In winter, they cluster together for warmth.
The beekeeping instructors also took us on a field trip to open up the hives and get a hands-on feel for it.
At first, I was a little nervous about opening a hive with tens of thousands of bees inside, but I found out they are surprisingly quiet -- most of the time. Wearing a veil and suit does offer a degree of security.
To keep the bees calm, you light a smoker, which is usually fueled by burlap or pine needles. The smoke causes the bees to eat honey. With full stomachs, they are less likely to sting.
When all the world is crazy, there's something relaxing about going to the bees and seeing the order in a hive.
It's a great hobby.
The workers
The majority of bees in the hive are called worker bees. They have that name for a reason. These sterile female bees do all the chores in the hive from tending to the larvae, making comb, collecting pollen and nectar and protecting against intruders. In the summer, these bees will literally work themselves to death in three to six weeks. In the winter, when there is nothing to forage, they live about 4 1/2 months.
The queen
Every hive has a queen, but only one. A queen starts out like just like worker bees, but as a larvae she is fed royal jelly, which is high in protein, for a longer period of time. As an adult, the queen lays all the eggs for the hive. In the summer, this can be around 1,500 eggs a day. A queen typically lives about two years.
The drones
Drones are male bees. They don't have stingers and do absolutely no work in the hive. Their sole purpose is to mate with the queen. Worker bees tend to them throughout the summer. Come winter, the workers refuse to feed the drones, leaving them to starve to death. In the summer, a drone lives about three months.
-- Source: http://plantphys.info/Plants_human/bees/bees.html
An unknown disorder that is killing honeybee colonies in more than 20 states has spread to South Carolina.
The disorder called "colony collapse disorder" causes bees to abandon the hive, leaving only a few adults and the bee larvae.
Scientists are baffled about what is causing the bees to do this.
Last August, Charlie Johnson, a Rock Hill beekeeper and president-elect for the South Carolina Beekeepers' Association, said he had about 40 hives. Now, he has about 15. He believes the disorder is the cause of the deaths.
"You can have a strong colony of bees, and within a week or two weeks, either there are no bees at all left in the colony or else there is just a small handful of them," he said. "Within a few days, they're gone."
Although the problem has only been recognized nationally in the last few months, Johnson said he thinks it has been around longer and people just didn't know what it was.
"People had a few colonies here and there disappear, and they didn't think anything of it," he said. "There wasn't anything major. Now all of a sudden when they're bringing out the symptoms, we've got beekeepers coming to us saying, 'I've had hives like that for a year and a half, two years now.'"
Locally, he said several people have reported hive losses to the disorder.
"We're finding no dead bees," Johnson said. "They just disappear."
For crops such as apples and vine fruit that depend on bees for pollination, this creates a crisis, Johnson said. Wild bees were killed by mites in the 1980s, which created a dependence on beekeepers, he said. This disorder complicates things.
"We are in a severe shortage right now, and it is going to impact our fruits, especially vine crops," Johnson said.
By Adam MacInnis · The Herald - Updated 04/10/07 - 12:26 AM
About six years ago, I picked up the newspaper and read that the Clemson Extension Office was offering a course on beekeeping.
Pure Royal Jelly
Photo by Andy Burriss • The Herald
 |
Taking the course was a great experience from start to finish. Through it, I learned what incredibly complex creatures bees are.
For example, in order for bee eggs to hatch, a hive must be kept around 90 degrees. So in summer, some of the bees will fan their wings to keep it cool. In winter, they cluster together for warmth.
The beekeeping instructors also took us on a field trip to open up the hives and get a hands-on feel for it.
At first, I was a little nervous about opening a hive with tens of thousands of bees inside, but I found out they are surprisingly quiet -- most of the time. Wearing a veil and suit does offer a degree of security.
To keep the bees calm, you light a smoker, which is usually fueled by burlap or pine needles. The smoke causes the bees to eat honey. With full stomachs, they are less likely to sting.
When all the world is crazy, there's something relaxing about going to the bees and seeing the order in a hive.
It's a great hobby.
The workers
The majority of bees in the hive are called worker bees. They have that name for a reason. These sterile female bees do all the chores in the hive from tending to the larvae, making comb, collecting pollen and nectar and protecting against intruders. In the summer, these bees will literally work themselves to death in three to six weeks. In the winter, when there is nothing to forage, they live about 4 1/2 months.
The queen
Every hive has a queen, but only one. A queen starts out like just like worker bees, but as a larvae she is fed royal jelly, which is high in protein, for a longer period of time. As an adult, the queen lays all the eggs for the hive. In the summer, this can be around 1,500 eggs a day. A queen typically lives about two years.
The drones
Drones are male bees. They don't have stingers and do absolutely no work in the hive. Their sole purpose is to mate with the queen. Worker bees tend to them throughout the summer. Come winter, the workers refuse to feed the drones, leaving them to starve to death. In the summer, a drone lives about three months.
-- Source: http://plantphys.info/Plants_human/bees/bees.html
An unknown disorder that is killing honeybee colonies in more than 20 states has spread to South Carolina.
The disorder called "colony collapse disorder" causes bees to abandon the hive, leaving only a few adults and the bee larvae.
Scientists are baffled about what is causing the bees to do this.
Last August, Charlie Johnson, a Rock Hill beekeeper and president-elect for the South Carolina Beekeepers' Association, said he had about 40 hives. Now, he has about 15. He believes the disorder is the cause of the deaths.
"You can have a strong colony of bees, and within a week or two weeks, either there are no bees at all left in the colony or else there is just a small handful of them," he said. "Within a few days, they're gone."
Although the problem has only been recognized nationally in the last few months, Johnson said he thinks it has been around longer and people just didn't know what it was.
"People had a few colonies here and there disappear, and they didn't think anything of it," he said. "There wasn't anything major. Now all of a sudden when they're bringing out the symptoms, we've got beekeepers coming to us saying, 'I've had hives like that for a year and a half, two years now.'"
Locally, he said several people have reported hive losses to the disorder.
"We're finding no dead bees," Johnson said. "They just disappear."
For crops such as apples and vine fruit that depend on bees for pollination, this creates a crisis, Johnson said. Wild bees were killed by mites in the 1980s, which created a dependence on beekeepers, he said. This disorder complicates things.
"We are in a severe shortage right now, and it is going to impact our fruits, especially vine crops," Johnson said.
Tuesday April 10, 2007 Home | Login | Place an Ad | Classifieds | Contact Us | MAKE HOMEPAGE LOCAL WEATHER: CLEAR 32°
Q. I have a comment regarding the lady whose sex drive doesn't match her husband's. Perhaps a better balance in household duties would create a better balance in their sex drives. She is exhausted from working all week and doing all the cooking, cleaning, and child care on the weekends. No wonder she doesn't have the energy! Grandpa needs to take a few things off her to-do list if he wants to have himself put on there! Maybe his energy level would match hers a little better that way, too.
A. You weren't the only one to react to the letter from the woman who felt overwhelmed by her husband's sex drive. Here is another reader's perspective:
"I read with interest the letter from the woman who wrote about her husband's high sex drive and her low one. Maybe her sex drive would improve if she came home from work, put her feet up and perhaps took a bath while her husband did the laundry and cooked dinner and then cleaned up the kitchen. But by then her husband would be asleep.
"She should get a checkup as you suggested, but I think the woman is just exhausted. When you are exhausted, the last thing you want is sex."
Q. My husband is taking a lot of medicines, including Lipitor and niacin for cholesterol control, atenolol for high blood pressure, prednisone for pain and Zoloft for depression. He is having memory problems as well as a lot of muscle weakness, pain and lack of energy. His balance is not good, and his doctor has diagnosed peripheral neuropathy. Could any of these problems be side effects from his medicine?
A. We cannot diagnose your husband's difficulties. Nevertheless, we have heard from hundreds of readers that statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs may cause memory loss as well as muscle pain and weakness. Depression and nerve problems like peripheral neuropathy might also be drug-related.
We discuss these issues in far greater detail and offer some alternative treatments in our new book, "Best Choices From The People's Pharmacy" (Rodale). Information is available at www.peoplespharmacy.com or at your local public library.
The combination of niacin and a statin-type drug such as Lipitor might increase the risk of a serious reaction called rhabdomyolysis.
Your husband's doctor should be informed of his symptoms. Your husband also should ask his doctor about atenolol; its effectiveness as a blood pressure-lowering drug is controversial, and it may sometimes cause fatigue and depression.
Q. I love to eat hard-boiled eggs, but do not like the yolk. Do I get any type of benefit just eating the white of the egg? The dog gets the yolk!
A. Egg white provides high-quality, low-fat protein. Your dog is getting all the cholesterol, plus the other nutrients such as lutein found in egg yolks.
People's Herbal Pharmacy
Q. I am a diet-controlled diabetic. I would like your opinion of a water extract product of cinnamon (Cinnulin PF). Is it safe and effective for lowering blood sugar?
A. Data suggest that a component in cinnamon can indeed help control blood sugar. We worry that some of the cinnamon in the kitchen spice rack might be contaminated with coumarin, a compound that can be toxic to the liver when ingested in large amounts.
Because Cinnulin PF is a water-extracted cinnamon product, it appears to be safer than ordinary cinnamon. It is available in health-food stores or on the Web (www.cinnulinpf.com). You will need to monitor blood sugar carefully and remain under medical supervision while trying this dietary supplement.
Q. I have arthritis in my fingers, and I'm sure using the computer has compounded the pain. I can't take anti-inflammatory medication due to an ulcer, so would you suggest other supplements that might help?
A. There are many herbs and dietary supplements that can ease inflammation. One person offered the following: "The combination of boswellia and glucosamine-MSM replaces nonsteroidal pain relievers and works well for me.
"Nine years ago I was literally falling down occasionally because of the pain in my spine. I heard someone say that the herb boswellia had 'saved her life' because of back pain. That Saturday, I started boswellia. In two weeks the pain decreased, and after a month there was an enormous difference. At last I could sleep and I could walk. Several years later, the arthritis increased, and I added MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin. I take them with boswellia and get good relief."
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. E-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com
A. You weren't the only one to react to the letter from the woman who felt overwhelmed by her husband's sex drive. Here is another reader's perspective:
"I read with interest the letter from the woman who wrote about her husband's high sex drive and her low one. Maybe her sex drive would improve if she came home from work, put her feet up and perhaps took a bath while her husband did the laundry and cooked dinner and then cleaned up the kitchen. But by then her husband would be asleep.
"She should get a checkup as you suggested, but I think the woman is just exhausted. When you are exhausted, the last thing you want is sex."
Q. My husband is taking a lot of medicines, including Lipitor and niacin for cholesterol control, atenolol for high blood pressure, prednisone for pain and Zoloft for depression. He is having memory problems as well as a lot of muscle weakness, pain and lack of energy. His balance is not good, and his doctor has diagnosed peripheral neuropathy. Could any of these problems be side effects from his medicine?
A. We cannot diagnose your husband's difficulties. Nevertheless, we have heard from hundreds of readers that statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs may cause memory loss as well as muscle pain and weakness. Depression and nerve problems like peripheral neuropathy might also be drug-related.
We discuss these issues in far greater detail and offer some alternative treatments in our new book, "Best Choices From The People's Pharmacy" (Rodale). Information is available at www.peoplespharmacy.com or at your local public library.
The combination of niacin and a statin-type drug such as Lipitor might increase the risk of a serious reaction called rhabdomyolysis.
Your husband's doctor should be informed of his symptoms. Your husband also should ask his doctor about atenolol; its effectiveness as a blood pressure-lowering drug is controversial, and it may sometimes cause fatigue and depression.
Q. I love to eat hard-boiled eggs, but do not like the yolk. Do I get any type of benefit just eating the white of the egg? The dog gets the yolk!
A. Egg white provides high-quality, low-fat protein. Your dog is getting all the cholesterol, plus the other nutrients such as lutein found in egg yolks.
People's Herbal Pharmacy
Q. I am a diet-controlled diabetic. I would like your opinion of a water extract product of cinnamon (Cinnulin PF). Is it safe and effective for lowering blood sugar?
A. Data suggest that a component in cinnamon can indeed help control blood sugar. We worry that some of the cinnamon in the kitchen spice rack might be contaminated with coumarin, a compound that can be toxic to the liver when ingested in large amounts.
Because Cinnulin PF is a water-extracted cinnamon product, it appears to be safer than ordinary cinnamon. It is available in health-food stores or on the Web (www.cinnulinpf.com). You will need to monitor blood sugar carefully and remain under medical supervision while trying this dietary supplement.
Q. I have arthritis in my fingers, and I'm sure using the computer has compounded the pain. I can't take anti-inflammatory medication due to an ulcer, so would you suggest other supplements that might help?
A. There are many herbs and dietary supplements that can ease inflammation. One person offered the following: "The combination of boswellia and glucosamine-MSM replaces nonsteroidal pain relievers and works well for me.
"Nine years ago I was literally falling down occasionally because of the pain in my spine. I heard someone say that the herb boswellia had 'saved her life' because of back pain. That Saturday, I started boswellia. In two weeks the pain decreased, and after a month there was an enormous difference. At last I could sleep and I could walk. Several years later, the arthritis increased, and I added MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin. I take them with boswellia and get good relief."
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. E-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com
Thursday, April 05, 2007
What is royal jelly
Hi Alice,
Could you please tell me what royal jelly is? What are the benefits and side effects of taking it?
Thanks! Polly
Dear Polly,
Royal jelly is the food of queens — not human monarchs, but Queen bees. It's actually a substance secreted from the glands in the heads of worker bees that's fed to bee larvae. After a few days, the larvae that have potential to develop into queens continue to be fed this nectar. Since queen bees are much bigger, live much longer, and are more fertile than all the other bees, this potion is believed by some to impart mystical qualities. In reality, royal jelly is comprised of 60 - 70 percent water, 12 - 15 percent protein, 10 - 16 percent sugars, and 3 - 6 percent fats, with vitamins, salts, and free amino acids making up the rest.
People who are allergic to bees and honey, and those who have asthma, can face real dangers if they take royal jelly. Reactions ranging from bronchial spasms, skin irritations, and asthma attacks, to more severe anaphylactic shock, and even death, have been reported from its ingestion. As with many supplements, pregnant and lactating women and small children need to refrain from using royal jelly. To be on the safe side, anyone with a compromised immune system also needs to beware.
So, what's all the buzz about royal jelly? This supplement has been taken for a host of ailments. In addition to its use as a general health tonic, people take royal jelly to:
enhance immunity
prevent arthritis and multiple sclerosis
treat asthma
slow the signs of aging
stimulate hair growth
improve sexual performance
reduce symptoms of menopause
heal bone fractures
lower cholesterol
alleviate cardiovascular ailments
remedy liver disease, pancreatitis, insomnia, fatigue, ulcers, and digestive and skin disorders
Whew. What a list! Unfortunately, good evidence does not exist for any of these purported health claims. Although studies with rabbits and rats showed a reduction in their cholesterol levels, and some human trials found a lowering of the bad LDL cholesterol levels, these reports have not been published, so it is impossible to evaluate their validity. Seems like royal jelly is just a royal scam.
Could you please tell me what royal jelly is? What are the benefits and side effects of taking it?
Thanks! Polly
Dear Polly,
Royal jelly is the food of queens — not human monarchs, but Queen bees. It's actually a substance secreted from the glands in the heads of worker bees that's fed to bee larvae. After a few days, the larvae that have potential to develop into queens continue to be fed this nectar. Since queen bees are much bigger, live much longer, and are more fertile than all the other bees, this potion is believed by some to impart mystical qualities. In reality, royal jelly is comprised of 60 - 70 percent water, 12 - 15 percent protein, 10 - 16 percent sugars, and 3 - 6 percent fats, with vitamins, salts, and free amino acids making up the rest.
People who are allergic to bees and honey, and those who have asthma, can face real dangers if they take royal jelly. Reactions ranging from bronchial spasms, skin irritations, and asthma attacks, to more severe anaphylactic shock, and even death, have been reported from its ingestion. As with many supplements, pregnant and lactating women and small children need to refrain from using royal jelly. To be on the safe side, anyone with a compromised immune system also needs to beware.
So, what's all the buzz about royal jelly? This supplement has been taken for a host of ailments. In addition to its use as a general health tonic, people take royal jelly to:
enhance immunity
prevent arthritis and multiple sclerosis
treat asthma
slow the signs of aging
stimulate hair growth
improve sexual performance
reduce symptoms of menopause
heal bone fractures
lower cholesterol
alleviate cardiovascular ailments
remedy liver disease, pancreatitis, insomnia, fatigue, ulcers, and digestive and skin disorders
Whew. What a list! Unfortunately, good evidence does not exist for any of these purported health claims. Although studies with rabbits and rats showed a reduction in their cholesterol levels, and some human trials found a lowering of the bad LDL cholesterol levels, these reports have not been published, so it is impossible to evaluate their validity. Seems like royal jelly is just a royal scam.
Killer disease striking down Honey bees in US
By Bernie Mitchell
4 April 2007 -- Pick whichever name you like but at the end of the day honey bees are dying out at a horrendously fast rate in the US.
While it's been called Fall Dwindle Disease by some, others are referring to it as Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). The essential point is that in 24 US states bees are dying.
CCD is the latest, and most serious, die-off of honey bee colonies across the US. It is characterized by, sudden colony death with a lack of adult bees in front of the dead-outs. Honey and bee bread are usually present and there is often evidence of recent brood rearing.
In some cases, the queen and a small number of survivor bees may be present in the brood nest. It is also characterized by delayed robbing and slower than normal invasion by common pests such as wax moth and small hive beetles.
This phenomenon first became apparent among commercial migratory beekeepers along the East Coast during the last few months of 2006 and has since been reported nationwide.
The disappearance of nature's pollinators could have drastic affect on agriculture and horticulture industries.
Importance of Honey Bee Pollination
Honey bees (genus Apis) are the most economically valuable pollinators of agricultural crops worldwide. In the US, bee pollination of agricultural crops is said to account for about one-third of the US diet, and contribute to the production of a wide range of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, forage crops, some field crops, and other specialty crops.
The monetary value of
as commercial pollinators in the United States is estimated at about $15 billion annually. This estimated value is measured according to the additional value of production attributable to honey bees, in terms of the value of the increased yield and quality achieved from honey bee pollination, including the indirect benefits of bee pollination required for seed production of some crops.
About one-third of the estimated value of commercial honey bee pollination is in alfalfa production, mostly for alfalfa hay. Another nearly 10% of the value of honey bee pollination is for apples, followed by 6-7% of the value each for almonds, citrus, cotton, and soybeans.
A number of agricultural crops are almost totally dependent on honey bee pollination (90-100%), including almonds, apples, avocados, blueberries, cranberries, cherries, kiwifruit, macadamia nuts, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, onions, legume seeds, pumpkins, squash, and sunflowers. Other specialty crops also rely on honey bee pollination, but to a lesser degree. These crops include apricot, citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, tangerines, etc), peaches, pears, nectarines, plums, grapes, brambleberries, strawberries, olives, melon (cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew), peanuts, cotton, soybeans, and sugarbeets.
Another study found that pollinators are essential for the production of some US-grown crops, particularly macadamia nuts, squash, and pumpkins.
In the United States, most pollination services are provided by commercial migratory beekeepers who travel from state to state and provide pollination services to crop producers. These operations are able to supply a large number of bee colonies during the critical phase of a crop's bloom cycle, when honey bees pollinate a crop as they fly from flower to flower collecting nectar and pollen, which they carry back to the nest.
Each year, an estimated more than 2 million bee colonies are rented for US crop pollination. Available limited information indicates that the greatest number of honey bee colony rentals are for apple and almond production, followed by clover seed, cherries, and pears.
About the disease
The current phenomenon was first called "Fall-Dwindle Disease," but has been renamed CCD because of the unusual characteristics of the honey bee colony declines. First, the condition is not only seasonal but manifests itself throughout the year. Second, the term "dwindle" implies a gradual loss; CCD onset is sudden. Third, the term "disappearance" has been used to describe other types of conditions, which differ from the symptoms currently being associated with CCD. Finally, the term "disease" is usually associated with a biological agent but none has yet been identified.
The first report of CCD was in mid-November 2006 by a Pennsylvania beekeeper overwintering in Florida. By February 2007, large commercial migratory beekeepers in several states reported heavy losses associated with CCD. Reports of losses vary widely, ranging from losses of 30-90% of their bee colonies; some beekeepers fear loss of nearly all of their colonies in some cases. Surviving colonies are reportedly weakened and may no longer be viable to pollinate or produce honey.
Honey bee colony losses also have been reported in Canada and Europe.
Symptoms of Colony Collapse Disorder
One of the key symptoms of CCD in collapsed colonies is that the adult population is suddenly gone without any accumulation of dead bees.
The bees are not returning to the hive but are leaving behind their brood (young bees), their queen, and maybe a small cluster of adults. What is uncharacteristic about this situation is that the honey bee is a very social and colony-oriented insect.
4 April 2007 -- Pick whichever name you like but at the end of the day honey bees are dying out at a horrendously fast rate in the US.
While it's been called Fall Dwindle Disease by some, others are referring to it as Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). The essential point is that in 24 US states bees are dying.
CCD is the latest, and most serious, die-off of honey bee colonies across the US. It is characterized by, sudden colony death with a lack of adult bees in front of the dead-outs. Honey and bee bread are usually present and there is often evidence of recent brood rearing.
In some cases, the queen and a small number of survivor bees may be present in the brood nest. It is also characterized by delayed robbing and slower than normal invasion by common pests such as wax moth and small hive beetles.
This phenomenon first became apparent among commercial migratory beekeepers along the East Coast during the last few months of 2006 and has since been reported nationwide.
The disappearance of nature's pollinators could have drastic affect on agriculture and horticulture industries.
Importance of Honey Bee Pollination
Honey bees (genus Apis) are the most economically valuable pollinators of agricultural crops worldwide. In the US, bee pollination of agricultural crops is said to account for about one-third of the US diet, and contribute to the production of a wide range of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, forage crops, some field crops, and other specialty crops.
The monetary value of
as commercial pollinators in the United States is estimated at about $15 billion annually. This estimated value is measured according to the additional value of production attributable to honey bees, in terms of the value of the increased yield and quality achieved from honey bee pollination, including the indirect benefits of bee pollination required for seed production of some crops.
About one-third of the estimated value of commercial honey bee pollination is in alfalfa production, mostly for alfalfa hay. Another nearly 10% of the value of honey bee pollination is for apples, followed by 6-7% of the value each for almonds, citrus, cotton, and soybeans.
A number of agricultural crops are almost totally dependent on honey bee pollination (90-100%), including almonds, apples, avocados, blueberries, cranberries, cherries, kiwifruit, macadamia nuts, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, onions, legume seeds, pumpkins, squash, and sunflowers. Other specialty crops also rely on honey bee pollination, but to a lesser degree. These crops include apricot, citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, tangerines, etc), peaches, pears, nectarines, plums, grapes, brambleberries, strawberries, olives, melon (cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew), peanuts, cotton, soybeans, and sugarbeets.
Another study found that pollinators are essential for the production of some US-grown crops, particularly macadamia nuts, squash, and pumpkins.
In the United States, most pollination services are provided by commercial migratory beekeepers who travel from state to state and provide pollination services to crop producers. These operations are able to supply a large number of bee colonies during the critical phase of a crop's bloom cycle, when honey bees pollinate a crop as they fly from flower to flower collecting nectar and pollen, which they carry back to the nest.
Each year, an estimated more than 2 million bee colonies are rented for US crop pollination. Available limited information indicates that the greatest number of honey bee colony rentals are for apple and almond production, followed by clover seed, cherries, and pears.
About the disease
The current phenomenon was first called "Fall-Dwindle Disease," but has been renamed CCD because of the unusual characteristics of the honey bee colony declines. First, the condition is not only seasonal but manifests itself throughout the year. Second, the term "dwindle" implies a gradual loss; CCD onset is sudden. Third, the term "disappearance" has been used to describe other types of conditions, which differ from the symptoms currently being associated with CCD. Finally, the term "disease" is usually associated with a biological agent but none has yet been identified.
The first report of CCD was in mid-November 2006 by a Pennsylvania beekeeper overwintering in Florida. By February 2007, large commercial migratory beekeepers in several states reported heavy losses associated with CCD. Reports of losses vary widely, ranging from losses of 30-90% of their bee colonies; some beekeepers fear loss of nearly all of their colonies in some cases. Surviving colonies are reportedly weakened and may no longer be viable to pollinate or produce honey.
Honey bee colony losses also have been reported in Canada and Europe.
Symptoms of Colony Collapse Disorder
One of the key symptoms of CCD in collapsed colonies is that the adult population is suddenly gone without any accumulation of dead bees.
The bees are not returning to the hive but are leaving behind their brood (young bees), their queen, and maybe a small cluster of adults. What is uncharacteristic about this situation is that the honey bee is a very social and colony-oriented insect.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
New Nature Made TripleFlex Rapid Relief Delivers Powerful Joint Comfort in as Little as Seven Days
NORTHRIDGE, Calif., March 5 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the Arthritis Foundation, nearly one in three U.S. adults experiences joint discomfort regularly, preventing them from enjoying everyday activities. Now there is a fast-acting, safe and effective way to alleviate discomfort and improve joint health. Nature Made(R) introduces its latest addition to the trusted TripleFlex(R) family, TripleFlex Rapid Relief, available beginning in February 2007 at grocery, drug and mass stores nationwide.
TripleFlex Rapid Relief is a powerful breakthrough in joint relief that combines glucosamine to rebuild cartilage, MSM for extra joint comfort and a proprietary blend of ingredients with white willow bark formulated to deliver joint comfort in as little as seven days. This is faster than glucosamine alone.
"TripleFlex Rapid Relief works with people's bodies to quickly improve joint comfort, mobility and flexibility," says Belinda Jenks, Ph.D., F.A.C.N., R.D., director of scientific affairs and nutrition education, Pharmavite LLC. "This product offers an option for people who want faster natural relief but without significant side effects."
TripleFlex Rapid Relief was developed by doctors based on more than twenty clinical studies showing effectiveness of the following ingredients on managing joint discomfort:
* Glucosamine (1500mg) is nature's basic building block for maintaining and rebuilding joint cartilage.
* Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) (750mg) is a natural source of dietary sulfur. Sulfur plays an especially critical role in maintaining the elasticity and flexibility of the connective tissue that make up joints.
* An all-natural proprietary blend (500mg) with white willow bark and ginger root is formulated to naturally ease joint discomfort in as little as seven days.
TripleFlex Rapid Relief comes in a convenient two tablets a day formula. The suggested retail price of TripleFlex Rapid Relief is $21.99 for a 60-count bottle. Consumers should not take TripleFlex Rapid Relief if pregnant, nursing or allergic or sensitive to aspirin. People taking a blood thinning medication should first consult their health care professional.
About TripleFlex
TripleFlex works with the body naturally to improve joint comfort, mobility and flexibility. TripleFlex is a proud sponsor of the Arthritis Foundation and a national sponsor of the Arthritis Walk(SM). Learn more about the Nature Made TripleFlex Family of products by visiting http://www.naturemade.com/, http://www.tripleflex.com/ or calling Nature Made's consumer affairs department toll free at 1-800-276-2878.
About Pharmavite
For more than 30 years, Pharmavite has earned and maintained the trust of pharmacists, consumers, and retailers by manufacturing high-quality vitamins, minerals, herbs and other dietary supplements that are safe, effective and science-based. As an industry leader, Pharmavite adheres to manufacturing standards recommended by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a not-for-profit organization that has set pharmaceutical and dietary supplement quality standards since 1820. In addition, Pharmavite participates in USP's Verification Program for dietary supplements. The dietary supplement industry is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission, as well as by government agencies in each of the 50 states.
TripleFlex Rapid Relief is a powerful breakthrough in joint relief that combines glucosamine to rebuild cartilage, MSM for extra joint comfort and a proprietary blend of ingredients with white willow bark formulated to deliver joint comfort in as little as seven days. This is faster than glucosamine alone.
"TripleFlex Rapid Relief works with people's bodies to quickly improve joint comfort, mobility and flexibility," says Belinda Jenks, Ph.D., F.A.C.N., R.D., director of scientific affairs and nutrition education, Pharmavite LLC. "This product offers an option for people who want faster natural relief but without significant side effects."
TripleFlex Rapid Relief was developed by doctors based on more than twenty clinical studies showing effectiveness of the following ingredients on managing joint discomfort:
* Glucosamine (1500mg) is nature's basic building block for maintaining and rebuilding joint cartilage.
* Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) (750mg) is a natural source of dietary sulfur. Sulfur plays an especially critical role in maintaining the elasticity and flexibility of the connective tissue that make up joints.
* An all-natural proprietary blend (500mg) with white willow bark and ginger root is formulated to naturally ease joint discomfort in as little as seven days.
TripleFlex Rapid Relief comes in a convenient two tablets a day formula. The suggested retail price of TripleFlex Rapid Relief is $21.99 for a 60-count bottle. Consumers should not take TripleFlex Rapid Relief if pregnant, nursing or allergic or sensitive to aspirin. People taking a blood thinning medication should first consult their health care professional.
About TripleFlex
TripleFlex works with the body naturally to improve joint comfort, mobility and flexibility. TripleFlex is a proud sponsor of the Arthritis Foundation and a national sponsor of the Arthritis Walk(SM). Learn more about the Nature Made TripleFlex Family of products by visiting http://www.naturemade.com/, http://www.tripleflex.com/ or calling Nature Made's consumer affairs department toll free at 1-800-276-2878.
About Pharmavite
For more than 30 years, Pharmavite has earned and maintained the trust of pharmacists, consumers, and retailers by manufacturing high-quality vitamins, minerals, herbs and other dietary supplements that are safe, effective and science-based. As an industry leader, Pharmavite adheres to manufacturing standards recommended by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a not-for-profit organization that has set pharmaceutical and dietary supplement quality standards since 1820. In addition, Pharmavite participates in USP's Verification Program for dietary supplements. The dietary supplement industry is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission, as well as by government agencies in each of the 50 states.
The miracle of honey
MORE than 1,400 years ago Allah and His Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, told us that honey can heal a variety of medical problems.
Allah says in the Qur’an, “And the Lord inspired the bee, saying: Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).’ There comes forth from their bellies a drink of varying colour wherein is healing for men. Verily in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” (16:68-69)
The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, has also told us of the healing found within honey for a variety of medical problems, including stomach ailments. One hadith, reported by Bukhari, states that a man came to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, because his brother had a stomach disorder. The Prophet said, “Let him drink honey.” The man returned a second time, saying his brother had stomach disorder, and again the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said, “Let him drink honey.” He returned a third time, saying again that his brother had stomach disorder. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, responded again, “Let him drink honey.” The man returned and said, “I have done that.” The Prophet then responded, “Allah has said the truth, but your brother’s stomach has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” He drank it and was cured.
Tirmithi, Ibn Majah and Baihaqi also reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said, “Make use of the two remedies: honey and the Qur’an.”
Modern medicine is only just learning of this fact. Traditional uses of honey have included honey mixed with lemon for sore throats. Honey coats the throat and reduces throat irritation. Research has already shown that honey blocks the growth of oral bacteria. Honey has also been used for stomach pains and problems. Modern research shows that honey is effective when used in the treatment of gastric or peptic stomach ulcers. Research has also revealed that honey is effective in the treatment of various wounds and infections because of its anti-microbial (anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal) properties.
Researchers are not absolutely sure why honey heals but they are learning new things about honey every day. We do know that honey contains a variety of sugars and minerals. Honey is also considered an antioxidant. This means it allows the blood to circulate better and provide more oxygen to areas of the body such as the brain. Honey can also be used externally to promote healing when applied to wounds, even post-operative wounds. Honey has also been effective in its use to treat burns. It has even been shown to be low in calories and useful as a sweetener for diabetics, people with heart disease or those overweight.
Although there is healing in honey for a variety of medical disorders, certain precautions should also be taken. Children under the age of one year should never be given honey due to the possibility of infant botulism. This type of food poisoning can be deadly, however, it only seems to affect infants under one year of age. Also, if you have any known allergies to specific plants, then you should make sure the honey you are using is not made from that plant. People with allergies to bee stings should also be careful when using other bee-related products such as propolis or royal jelly. If these precautions are followed, then honey may provide healing for you.
As Muslims, we must acknowledge and accept that Allah and His Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, know better and have revealed the truth. We should, therefore, accept that honey can heal and make use of it. We should study the research that is available, not to confirm or deny the truth that has been revealed by Allah and His Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, but to learn of new ways we can use honey.
(Article by Vivian bint Joan Taylor, first published in Al Jumu’ah magazine)
Allah says in the Qur’an, “And the Lord inspired the bee, saying: Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).’ There comes forth from their bellies a drink of varying colour wherein is healing for men. Verily in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” (16:68-69)
The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, has also told us of the healing found within honey for a variety of medical problems, including stomach ailments. One hadith, reported by Bukhari, states that a man came to the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, because his brother had a stomach disorder. The Prophet said, “Let him drink honey.” The man returned a second time, saying his brother had stomach disorder, and again the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said, “Let him drink honey.” He returned a third time, saying again that his brother had stomach disorder. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, responded again, “Let him drink honey.” The man returned and said, “I have done that.” The Prophet then responded, “Allah has said the truth, but your brother’s stomach has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” He drank it and was cured.
Tirmithi, Ibn Majah and Baihaqi also reported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said, “Make use of the two remedies: honey and the Qur’an.”
Modern medicine is only just learning of this fact. Traditional uses of honey have included honey mixed with lemon for sore throats. Honey coats the throat and reduces throat irritation. Research has already shown that honey blocks the growth of oral bacteria. Honey has also been used for stomach pains and problems. Modern research shows that honey is effective when used in the treatment of gastric or peptic stomach ulcers. Research has also revealed that honey is effective in the treatment of various wounds and infections because of its anti-microbial (anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal) properties.
Researchers are not absolutely sure why honey heals but they are learning new things about honey every day. We do know that honey contains a variety of sugars and minerals. Honey is also considered an antioxidant. This means it allows the blood to circulate better and provide more oxygen to areas of the body such as the brain. Honey can also be used externally to promote healing when applied to wounds, even post-operative wounds. Honey has also been effective in its use to treat burns. It has even been shown to be low in calories and useful as a sweetener for diabetics, people with heart disease or those overweight.
Although there is healing in honey for a variety of medical disorders, certain precautions should also be taken. Children under the age of one year should never be given honey due to the possibility of infant botulism. This type of food poisoning can be deadly, however, it only seems to affect infants under one year of age. Also, if you have any known allergies to specific plants, then you should make sure the honey you are using is not made from that plant. People with allergies to bee stings should also be careful when using other bee-related products such as propolis or royal jelly. If these precautions are followed, then honey may provide healing for you.
As Muslims, we must acknowledge and accept that Allah and His Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, know better and have revealed the truth. We should, therefore, accept that honey can heal and make use of it. We should study the research that is available, not to confirm or deny the truth that has been revealed by Allah and His Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, but to learn of new ways we can use honey.
(Article by Vivian bint Joan Taylor, first published in Al Jumu’ah magazine)
Monday, April 02, 2007
Bees stung by insecticides in pollen
There are many pesticides which are highly successful in culling their target populations but which have a detrimental effect on other, more friendly forms of wildlife. One such agent is the insecticide fipronil which is used to control pests in crops, including locusts. It is also effective against domestic insect pests such as ants and cockroaches, as well as ticks, mites and fleas carried on animals. ( Royal jelly )
Much of the success of fipronil relies on the fact that it is slow acting. When it is mixed with bait, it is taken back to the colonies and spread about, accelerating the rate of kill. The predicted rate of kill after 3 days is about 95% for ants and cockroaches. It acts by attacking the central nervous system, disrupting the chloride channel that is regulated by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Unfortunately, fipronil, a phenylpyrazole type of insecticide, is also highly toxic to bees with a low 50% lethal dose (LD50) of 0.004-0.006 µg/bee. Its long half-life on treated vegetation of 3-7 months ensures prolonged exposure for the bees, which can come into contact via the vegetation itself and through pollen and nectar. Even at sub-lethal doses, the insecticide adversely affects the feeding activity of bees and the ratio of inactive to active bees.
It is the combination of this high apiarian toxicity and widespread use that has prompted a team of Spanish scientists at the University of Valladolid to ask if fipronil is responsible for the current decline observed in the population of honey bees. Furthermore, if bees inadvertently collect fipronil and take it back to the hive, it will end up in hive-based products such as honey and royal jelly. While human health is not a primary concern because the World Health Organisation classifies fipronil as a moderately hazardous compound, extensive human testing has not been carried out.
The research team noted that there are several published methods for measuring pesticide residues in pollen but found only two specifically for fipronil. Recognising that extraction is an essential part of the analytical process, they set out to compare various sample preparation protocols for removing fipronil from pollen for subsequent analysis by gas chromatography with electron capture and mass spectrometric detection.
Three different generalised techniques were explored - extraction with organic solvents, solid-phase extraction (SPE) on cartridges or a Florisil column, and matrix-solid-phase dispersion (MSPD).
The solid-liquid extractions were carried out with a group of solvents that covered a wide polarity range - methanol, ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, acetone, dichloromethane and hexane. After two-fold extraction, the best recoveries measured by GC/ECD were close to 66% for acetonitrile and ethyl acetate. Subsequent liquid-liquid extraction removed co-extracted impurities to give cleaner chromatograms. The GC/MS recoveries were artificially high (up to 200%) due to the presence of co-extracted matrix components.
For SPE, the acetonitrile or methanol extracts were cleaned up on 5 types of cartridge or the Florisil column. The best SPE performances were obtained by adding water to the extracts then using C18 or polymeric (styrene-divinylbenzene) cartridges, with recoveries of more than 80% measured by GC/ECD. With Florisil, the figure was more than 75%. Once again, matrix effects distorted the yields in GC/MS.
MSPD using Florisil mixed with pollen gave comparable recoveries but the chromatograms showed an irregular baseline and the presence of many co-extracted compounds which obscured the fipronil peak at lower concentrations.
The researchers recommended the use of SPE or Florisil chromatography of acetonitrile extracts as the best recovery methods. Although GC/ECD was able to determine fipronil at trace concentrations, they also advocated the use of GC/MS because it has the added benefit of being able to identify the insecticide peak. The use of matrix-matched calibrations using spiked samples corrected the abnormally high recoveries observed.
With this technique, detection limits of 0.07 µg/kg pollen were achieved, about 12-19-fold above the LD50 value of fipronil in bees. The proposed method could enable an attempted correlation between pollen levels of the insecticide and honey bee populations.
Related links:
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Valladolid
- Journal of Chromatogry A, 2007 (Article in Press): "Comparative study of sample preparation procedures to determine fipronil in pollen by gas chromatography with mass spectrometric and electron-capture detection"
The views represented in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.
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