Pharmacentre Limited > Blog > Herbal Remedies
Posted on:

Viridian 7 Day Sugar Detox

Say Goodbye to Sugar and Hello to Better Health, Better Sleep and Better Vitality

Sugar is addictive. There is no doubt about that. It comes in various disguises and it seems impossible to give up. it is human nature to respond positively to rewards. When you eat sugar your brain “rewards” you by producing Dopamine  – a chemical that is responsible for feeling pleasure. Good? You would think so, but in actual fact the body becomes less responsive to the dopamine and you therefore eat more sugar to get the reward feeling and this becomes a vicious cycle of highs and blood sugar crashes leaving you feeling absolutely rubbish. Sound familiar?

But we need sugar!

True. Sugar is digested and turned into glucose – one of the main fuel sources for the body. Again you would think that’s good but our body’s aren’t meant to cope with the quantities of sugar the average first world person consumes, and this is what happens:

Once your food is digested, the glucose is absorbed through the intestine, you produce insulin which acts as a transportation for the glucose to various parts of the body to be used as energy. The more simple the sugar, the faster this happens.

Once you’ve got enough energy in the cells, the leftover glucose is stored in the liver, muscles and fat cells to be used in between meals. Your body won’t waste energy and it has an endless storage supply in fat cells, so when you eat more sugars than you use, you grow more fat cells to store it.

Eventually your body develops an insulin resistance which is the pancreas producing less insulin. This leaves the body with too much glucose in the blood and nothing to transport, it and you’re left with a good chance of getting type 2 diabetes if you do not get the sugar consumption under control.

Sugar affects your immune system

Glucose is a food source for our cells but also for Candida yeast,  bacterias, and even cancer cells. This is not to say that the consumption of sugar causes these problems, only that it fuels them. Sugar is also seen to reduce the effectiveness of your immune system. A study done in the 1970’s found that eating simple sugars decreases the immune system’s effectiveness to kill bacteria and viruses it finds in the body.

Sugar affects our sleep.

Blood sugar levels that are too high or too low cause our sleep to be interrupted. Lack of a good night sleep then also causes problems with our blood sugar. Tiredness leads to the body dumping glucose into the blood stream, insulin having to transport it, and you get a cycle of cravings, mood highs and lows, and energy and exhaustion.

The average person in large cities has the following daily routine:

  • A bad night sleep leaves you slow to start, running late and grabbing a cup of coffee and chocolate muffin for breakfast – Sugar high.
  • You then have a sugar crash, so it’s a cup of tea and a biscuit to boost you, giving you another sugar high.
  • Another crash comes just in time for lunch, so you have meal deal with a chocolate bar and fruit smoothie (hidden sugars)
  • Another low in the late afternoon, so it’s another tea and biscuit
  • You get home feeling exhausted so you warm up a ready meal containing as much as 10 teaspoons of sugar.
  • Another sugar crash before bed and you’re on your way to another restless night sleep to do it all over again the next day.

Had enough?

We have too, so our product of the month is the new Viridian Sugar Detox Kit.

Start your Sugar detox

Once you decide to quite sugar. Viridian have developed a 7 day Sugar detox program supporting you with supplements and a 7 day plan to help you get over your sugar cravings for good!

The 7 Day Sugar Detox pack supplement contains Chromium, Cinnamon and Alpha Lipoic acid.

Chromium is an important mineral that contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. Cinnamon, also known as “sweet wood,” has been well studied clinically and has a long history of traditional use. Alpha lipoic acid is found in all cells and is in this formula as it has a balancing effect on blood sugar levels in the body.

You can also download the app, get free meal plans, recipes and even a shopping list to help you through program on their 7 day sugar detox website

It’s time for a better you, so give up refined sugars and have a healthier summer and future.

 

Posted on:

Solgar Beta Glucans Elderberry Immune Complex

A favourite of Ioana in our Edgware store is Solgar Beta Glucans Immune Complex. This formula is comprised of ingredients shown in research to support the normal function of the immune system. This unique combination of beta 1,3/1,6 glucans, elderberry, Ester-C®, vitamin D3, zinc, copper and selenium, helps support the functioning of the immune system especially during periods where the body could be susceptible to developing an illness, such as during the winter months or stressful periods.

The top 2 ingredients:

Beta-glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides which are found in the cell wall of fungi and yeasts. They stimulate the body’s resistance to infection by helping to prime the immune system, defending itself against pathogens and foreign invaders more effectively by making the body think that it is under attack.

Elderberry works by coating the spiky bits on a virus so that it’s no longer able to penetrate and take over human cells. That virus can then be ingested by immune cells such as particularly those that have been primed for activity from previously coming into contact with beta glucans.

Ioana says: “It is my favourite product because it has all the necessary ingredients needed for a good immune system”

Posted on:

SunChlorella ‘A’

Ioana in our Edgware store loves SunChlorella and uses it every day. She says “It is amazing for digestive function. It is a good source of vitamin D and other essential nutrients. It gives me an instant boost to any physical activity. I love to recommend it to our customers”

Why not Spirulina?

Unlike spirulina, chlorella is a complete unicellular organism, and the richest source of chlorophyll on earth. Chlorella only grows in fresh water, which means that unlike sprirulina, it contains little or no salt or iodine. Chlorella

Both algae are recognised for a wide range of health benefits. Traditionally chlorella is  used for promoting the normal function of the immune system and the high yield of chlorophyll is now known to be a natural detox/cleanser.

From as early as 1930′s, chlorella was the subject of international research as a good quality staple food at times of food shortages.

Lets get Technical…

Click here for a full nutritional breakdown of SunChlorella “A”

SunChlorella is available in easy to swallow tablets or granules and is suitable for all ages

 

Posted on:

Higher Nature Citricidal

Santha in our Kingston store recommends Higher Nature Citricidal drops.

What is it?

Citricidal was originally developed by a German physicist and immunologist, Jacob Harish, as an antiparasitic. In the 1960’s Dr. Harish was able to convince researchers at the University of Florida to experiment with the use of grapefruit extract as an alternative to then-current chemicals for the protection of fruit and vegetables. They are quickly won over with it’s amazing ability to inhibit the growth of not only parasites, but fungi and bacteria as well.

How can I use it ?

Citricidal has many uses. The versatile liquid is commonly used for digestive support when travelling either by using diluted Citricidal to gargle or by consuming a few drops as directed on the bottle, in water or juice. It is also now regularly being used to treat Candida problems. A Polish study published in 2001 found that a 33 percent grapefruit extract has a potent anti fungal effect against Candida albicans strains taken from patients with candida symptoms.

Grapefruit seed extract is also a natural cleanser. Regularly recommended especially as a mouthwash, on the face and nails, and as a household cleanser.

  • Laundry — to kill fungi and bacteria, add 10 to 15 drops to the final rinse
  • Carpet cleaners — to kill pathogenic organisms
  • Humidifiers — 1 drop per litre of water to prevent algae growth
  • Disinfecting surfaces — Mix with water in a spray bottle. It’s great for disinfecting chopping boards and other kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Higher Nature Citricidal is available in store as a liquid or a tablet form.

Posted on:

Pukka Wholistic Tumeric

Grazyna in Kingston loves Pukka Wholistic Turmeric. Turmeric, the main spice in curry, is arguably the most powerful herb on the planet at fighting and potentially reversing diseases. It been used in India for thousands of years. The main active component of turmeric, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It used by people suffering from any inflammation including arthritis or colitis. It has been shown that curcumin may also help prevent dementia.

Pukka Herbs say: Wholistic Turmeric is unique broad-spectrum formula that contains the highest organic grade, sustainably cultivated and fairly traded herbs, carefully selected to bring you the full potential of nature’s goodness.

Pukka Wholistic Turmeric retains curcuminoids, turmeric essential oils and a full range of turmeric actives. This means we harness the effects of all 200 of turmeric’s bioactive compounds, not just those of the curcuminoids.

Their unique wholistic extraction process enhances absorption and substantially increases potency. Read the article by Marin Anastasov from Pukka Herbs to find out more about the science behind their wholistic extraction.

Pukka Wholistic Tumeric is not only good for you, but good for the planet!

Golden Milk also known as a Tumeric Latte is a great way to get your daily dose of Tumeric if you’re bored of popping pills. Check out Pukka’s recipe

  • 250ml of organic coconut milk or organic almond milk
  • 250ml of water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • One to two capsules of Pukka Wholistic Turmeric
  • 1 small piece (1/2 inch) of fresh ginger, peeled and diced into small pieces
  • 1 tbsp of honey
  • 1 tbsp of organic virgin coconut oil
  • A grinding of black pepper
  • Ground cinnamon or grated nutmeg to serve
Directions
  1. Gently heat all the ingredients except for the cinnamon, slowly bringing to the boil
  2. Simmer gently for five minutes
  3. Sieve and serve in cups with a sprinkling of cinnamon or grated nutmeg

 

Posted on:

Pukka Mushroom Gold

Our immune system can be affected any time of the year, but the winter months seem to hit us harder. Mushroom Gold is ideal for those suffering with a depleted immune system, autoimmune conditions, inflammation and fatigue due to immune weakness.

What is it?

Mushroom Gold contains full spectrum Reishi, Shiitake and Maitake mushrooms to support immunity. Full-spectrum means just that; the fruiting body and mycelium as well as the extra-cellular metabolites are included to deliver the maximum amount of concentrated β-glucan polysaccharides which are the key ingredient in supporting the immune system whether over or under active. 300mg of β-glucans is the accepted clinically effective dose and this is what Mushroom Gold delivers.

About the Mushrooms:

Maitake’s β-glucans is a potent viral inhibitor which stimulates the immune system and reduces opportunistic infections.  Maitake is also being researched for its anti-tumour effects.

Reishi is an effective adaptogen through helping to moderate the body’s stress response and also being used to help treat conditions such as chronic fatigue. Increased stress levels cause a decrease in our body’s immune response, so this adaptogenic effect in Reishi could help prenvet our immune system taking a dive when we need it most. Reishi is known as the ‘mushroom of immortality’ because of its incredible contribution to long-term health. It was originally classified as a ‘superior tonic’ in Traditional Chinese Medicine considered to prolong life, prevent ageing and boost the life-force qi.

Shiitake is highly nutritious containing all the essential amino acids, Vitamins B1 and B2, niacin, ergosterol (pro-Vitamin D) and iron. The β-glucans found in this mushroom include an immune-regulating polysaccharide called lentinan that increases the immune T-cells. Shitake also has anti-bacterial properties that have been seen to be particularly effective in the treatment of infections and conditions such as ‘strep’ throat

Any side effects?

Pukka Mushroom Gold is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Free from dairy, wheat grain, gluten, and soya as well as unnaturally occurring sugars and made without genetically modified organisms. Just to be safe, Pukka recommend you seek professional advice before using in pregnancy. There are no known contraindications, but as Mushroom Gold has such a profound effect on the immune system, its best avoided with immunosuppressive medication. Maitake and Reishi mushrooms do impact upon blood sugar levels so diabetics should take Mushroom Gold with food.

Feeling under the weather?

For added immune support take with Pukka Elderberry Syrup or a nice cup of Pukka Lemon, Ginger and Manuka honey tea. Alternatively visit us in store for a chat with a member of our Panacea team to find out more about what else you can do to support your immune system.

 

Posted on:

Varicose Veins – A.Vogel

Varicose veins are enlarged or swollen veins, visible through the skin as blue or purple swellings. Although they may be found anywhere in the body, varicose veins are most common in the calves and thighs. They may also have a bulging, lumpy or twisted appearance. The thickened or swollen parts of veins are known by doctors as varicosities. The word ‘varicose’ comes from Latin and means ‘dilated’ or ‘larger’.

This happens when veins lose their elasticity, become stretched or swollen. This leads to leakage of valves found inside veins, responsible for regulating the normal flow of blood towards the heart.

Who develops varicose veins?

Some people are more prone to the condition than others. Those who spend much of their day sitting, and in particular standing, are more likely to develop the condition. In addition, varicose veins can run in families, especially in the female line.

It is said that over 3 in 10 adults will develop varicosities at some point in their lives. Other estimates are even higher, suggesting that 40% of men and 32% of women aged 18 to 64 years suffer from varicose veins.

The most common cause of varicose veins in young women is pregnancy. It is thought that about 40% of pregnant women experience this, although these usually disappear after birth of the child.

What are the symptoms?

A feeling of aching, heaviness or tiredness may develop in the calves or thighs. Other symptoms of varicose veins include swollen ankles, burning sensation in the legs, muscle cramp or itching of the skin.

The symptoms of varicose veins vary from person to person. Usually the first signs are that affected veins becoming more noticeable through the skin. With time, they appear swollen, and may become itchy or slightly tender to touch.

Although the symptoms of varicose veins are unsightly and irritating, the condition tends not to be serious. However, serious complications can develop and these include varicose eczema, skin ulcers, thrombosis (abnormal clotting) and bleeding. If this is the case, you should seek medical attention.

Varicose veins in other parts of the body

Although varicose veins are most commonly found in the legs, they may appear elsewhere in the body.

  • Haemorrhoids (or piles) are varicose veins in the anus and rectum – the lowest part of the digestive tract where faeces leave. Although not often serious, they can be very painful. You may notice streaks of blood as you try to pass stool
  • Pregnant women may notice varicose veins in their legs but sometimes, varicose veins in the vulva or vagina, as the baby puts pressure on the pelvic region, restricting blood flow
  • They may also be found in the oesophagus(or gullet), the tube which connects your mouth to your stomach. This is known as liver cirrhosis and is usually caused by scarring in the liver resulting from hepatitis infection or excessive alcohol consumption
  • Up to 1 in 7 men develop varicose veins in the scrotum or testicles. They are not usually problematic and you may not notice any symptoms.

Prevention or treatment?

There are many measures you can take to help prevent varicose veins from developing or worsening. Most of these involve improving your circulation with regular exercise and eating healthily.

Treatment of varicose veins include conventional methods such as pressure stockings, lasers or, in severe cases, surgery. Additionally, many people find relief from using herbal remedies, in particular Horse Chestnut seed extracts, available in tablet form, or as a gel.

Should I go to the doctor?

A symptom of varicose veins you may experience is itchiness around the swollen vein. This occurs because blood leaks from the swollen vein, irritating surrounding tissues. If your varicose veins itch, you are more likely to develop complications. Many of these can, and should be treated, so it is worth making an appointment with your doctor.

The diagnosis is often clear as they are usually visible under the skin. However, there may be certain circumstances where you experience some of the symptoms of varicose veins, but are not sure if you have the problem. As with any unexplained symptoms, you should seek the advice of your doctor.

In addition, speak to your doctor if:

  • You have severe pain, discomfort or swelling in your legs
  • The skin over the vein becomes painful or irritated
  • You develop an ulcer (break in the skin)
  • Your varicose vein bleeds.

Supplements

Horse Chestnut

A.Vogel insist that only freshly picked horse chestnut seeds are used to make Venaforce®. This ensures that the extract obtained contains the active ingredients that help with the symptoms of varicose veins.

Venaforce® and Venagel® Remedies

Horse chestnut is probably the most popular herb used for treatment. It is the seeds of the horse chestnut tree which are used medicinally – and these are the same seeds gathered each autumn for the game of conkers.  Venaforce is a traditional herbal medicinal product for the relief of symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins, such as tired, heavy legs, pain, cramps and swelling, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy

Venagel contains the extract of fresh Horse chestnut extracts and when used in gels is soothing, providing cooling relief to legs that feel weary, heavy and uncomfortable – fantastic after a night out or a day’s shopping. It is also useful for long journeys (especially by plane), during hot weather and can be used during pregnancy.

Posted on:

Good Green Stuff

The Ultimate Superblend

More than a multi and more than just greens, Good Green Stuff is a complex multi-nutrient formula that helps make it simple to be and stay healthy. Based on the latest scientific research and formulated for maximum vitality.

Over 75 ingredients

Good Green Stuff is a blend of carefully selected fruits, vegetables and herbs – with added vitamins, minerals, friendly bacteria, plant foods and extracts and other essential nutrients.The ultimate superfood with the very best ingredients for optimum health.

Quality without compromise

Independently formulated by a team of global health experts. The form of every ingredient specifically selected for optimum performance. Regularly reviewed, and blended in world-class facilities in Belgium. Every batch is tested before release

Food For Thought

Nutrients to feed the mind and help you cope when the going gets tough as well as being packed with nutrients that help you battle fatigue and keep your psychological function in tip top condition.

Easy to Digest and Supports Your Gut and Immunity

Easier to digest than tablets or capsules and made from a base of real plant foods. Every form of vitamin and mineral has been carefully chosen for the best absorption and utilisation profile. Packed full of soluble fibre, friendly bacteria and digestive enzymes, yet gentle on the stomach. Good Green Stuff contains a wide range of ingredients that promote gut health, encourage a healthy inflammatory response, protect cells from oxidative stress and support your immune system

For those aspiring to vitality, body balance and healthy weight

A food-form, plant extract, gut friendly, synergistic food supplement to put a spring in your step. Two forms of Co Q10 and ideal ratios of B-Vitamins for energy-yielding metabolism, psychological, nervous system and immune function, along with countless other nutrients and phytonutrients to make you glow from the inside out. Good Green Stuff helps you look and feel your best every day!

Quick, Tasty, Convenient

Takes the strain out of good nutrition in one easy daily serve. No supplement can replace a healthy diet, but few get the chance to consume a balanced and varied diet every day. Good Green Stuff helps you fill the nutritional gaps. Think of it as your nutritional insurance policy.

No Bad Stuff

Allergen-Free – All of the good stuff, with none of the bad

Free from all common allergens:

  • No Gluten
  • No Dairy
  • No Eggs
  • No Nuts
  • No Soy
  • No Corn.
  • No GMO
  • No Nasty Chemicals
  • No Artificial Preservatives

Just 10 grams of concentrated, real-food ingredients

Posted on:

Menopause tips from A.Vogel

The menopause gets rather a rough press in our society as we don’t usually value age and experience the way they do in less Westernised cultures.

There are many things you can do for your health to ensure that the menopause is embraced rather than dreaded. Why not try a few of the health tips below to help you through the menopause and into the next phase of your life.

Food and drink

There are some dietary changes you can make to help you through the menopause:

  • Drink at least 1.5 litres of still plain water daily
  • Cut out coffee and take a maximum of 2 cups of tea daily (why not try Bambu – a coffee alternative)
  • Make sure your bowels move regularly
  • Eat regularly as skipping meals will not help with trying to maintain a healthy weight
  • Reduce refined carbohydrates – white sugar, white bread, white pasta, white rice and things covered in heaps of syrup
  • Eat more phyto-oestrogenic foods such as broccoli, oats & soya
  • Eat more non-dairy, calcium containing foods such as brown rice, salmon and pumpkin seeds
Exercise
  • Walk for 20 minutes every other night – 10 minutes outbound and 10 minutes home. This helps trigger the production of happy chemicals called endorphins in your body
  • Get a mini trampoline (rebounder). You can use it in front of the television so that you don’t get bored
  • Get some mini weights and use them gently whilst watching the ‘soaps’
Sleep
  • Being able to sleep well is easier if your digestion is working properly, so observe the suggestions for eating and drinking above. If you habitually wake at about 3am, you may find that improving your digestion has a very good knock-on effect on your sleep pattern
  • Spend some time relaxing before you go to bed so that your mind stops buzzing
  • Write down things that are on your mind and a list of things you need to do the next day before you go to bed so that you do not have everything revolving round in your mind as you try to go to sleep
  • Avoid all caffeine, not just in the evening but during the day as well. Try to stay away from situations that will cause anxiety. Use calming herb teas such as lemon balm and chamomile to help relax your mind, or use a herbal remedy containing valerian, such as A. Vogel Dormeasan®Valerian-Hops drops to help you re-establish a good sleeping pattern.
 Stress
  • Take time out for yourself
  • Eat regularly, as skipping meals or eating on the run creates more stress
  • Avoid caffeine
  • Practice breathing techniques, or take up yoga or another gentle, meditative exercise that promotes deep relaxation
  • If you need further help, you might like to consider using a herbal remedy such as A.Vogel Stress Relief Daytime
Low Mood/Tearfulness
  • Exercise is very good for both body and mind as it releases natural chemicals in the body that make us feel happy.
  • Write it down – it is best not to bottle your feelings up. Talk to those around you but if you find this difficult, even writing your problems down in a journal can help release your feelings. Better out than in as they say.
  • While drinking in moderation is acceptable, it is best to try and avoid alcohol. Water is the best drink to hydrate the brain!
  • Change things in your surroundings. The brain can easily form repetitive patterns making it hard to change your emotions, so try doing something new when you feel low and you might surprise yourself and others. They do call it the change after all.

If you are looking for a herbal remedy for low mood, you might wish to consider A. Vogel Hyperiforce® St. John’s Wort tablets. This can however not be take if on any other medication.

Soy isoflavones for before, during & after the menopause

A.Vogel Menosan® Menopause Support can provide support to the body through all stages of the Menopause but is especially useful when broad range of symptoms such as hot flushes, irritability, tiredness, pains and aches, vaginal dryness etc kick in.

Made from fermented soya beans
Support for all stages of the menopause
Also contains magnesium and hibiscus

Eileen does Menopause Monday’s for A. Vogel, with a weekly blog and video. Click HERE to find out more her blog.

In this A.Vogel video, Eileen explains why good liver function is so important during the menopause and she recommends what you can do to support your liver.

Posted on:

Viridian Black Seed Oil

Muhi, from our Putney store, says: “I love Viridian Black Seed Oil. All my family use this product. This is a traditional herb that has been used for thousands of years by people living in Middle East and most part of Asia and Africa to promote health and fight disease. Tutankamun is even believed to have had a bottle of black seed oil in his tomb. This oil commonly has been used for treatment related to respiratory health, stomach and intestinal complains, kidney and liver functions, circulatory and immune system support. It is also known as Blessed Seed, Black Cumin or Nigella seed.

Organic Black Seed Oil from Viridian Nutrition is of the highest quality, made exclusively from organic Egyptian black cumin seed that is cold-pressed. It has a pleasant aroma and taste, it can be taken internally off the spoon, used as part of a salad dressing or used as a head or chest rub.

Viridian’s Organic Black Seed oil is vegan, organic and certified Kosher.

 

Add to cart