Eleutherococcus senticosus

Also known as Siberian Ginseng, this adaptogen is native to Northeast Asia. It grows in Northeast China, Eastern Russia, Korea, and Japan.

Though one of its other names is Siberian Ginseng, eleuthero is actually not ginseng at all! True ginseng contains ginsenosides, while eleuthero does not. The word sounds a little strange, but ginsenosides are basically the active compound within ginseng. Eleuthero’s active constituents are its eleutherosides. It also contains triterpinoid saponins, which are natural products found in other medicinal plants.

Although only becoming popular in the last 60 years, eleuthero has been used for millennia. Ancient Chinese medical texts mention eleuthero, or, ci wu jia. Its use was to invigorate qi, which referred to vital energy, and to nourish the spleen and kidneys. From the 1940s to the 1960s, Russian researchers studied this herb, searching for an economical and readily available alternative to panax ginseng, otherwise known as Asian Ginseng.

Similar to ashwagandha, eleuthero is an adaptogen. Adaptogens help your body adapt and respond well to stress.

So what is eleuthero used for?

• Stimulate the Immune System
  • A study found that a liquid extract from eleuthero was able to inhibit the reproduction of human rhinovirus and influenza A. This perhaps lesser known adaptogen has some powerful antiviral capabilities.
• Improve Stamina
  • Eleuthero demonstrates an ability to increase physical stamina and cardiovascular ability.
• Adrenal Support
• Help with Fatigue
• Currently being researched for its anti-cancerous properties
  • “The aqueous extract of AS [acanthopanax senticocus, a new classification of eleutherococcus senticocus) is able to inhibit tumor metastasis prophylactically as well as therapeutically” (study here). In other words, eleuthero can be used preventatively and curatively.

Similar to ashwagandha, eleuthero can be consumed in tea, tinctures, and capsule form.

Resources to Learn More…
https://draxe.com/nutrition/eleuthero-siberian-ginseng/

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jaroslaw_Przybyl/publication/228471617_Accumulation_of_Biologically_Active_Compounds_in_the_Rhizomes_and_Roots_of_Eleuthero_Eleutherococcus_SenticosusMaxim_Et_RuprMaxim/links/09e415146231552f98000000/Accumulation-of-Biologically-Active-Compounds-in-the-Rhizomes-and-Roots-of-Eleuthero-Eleutherococcus-Senticosus-Maxim-Et-Rupr-Maxim.pdf

https://mountainroseherbs.com/eleuthero-root

https://www.amymyersmd.com/article/adaptogens-stress-adrenal-fatigue/

https://academy.miloa.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/B.-Glatthaar-Saalmuller-A.-Esperester-al-2001.pdf

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21793317/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50849046_ChemInform_Abstract_Acanthopanax_senticosus_Review_of_Botany_Chemistry_and_Pharmacology

http://cms.herbalgram.org/ABCGuide/GuidePDFs/Eleuthero.pdf

https://wearerasa.com/blogs/news/herb-profile-eleuthero

Raw, natural, clean

The Body Deli specializes in fresh, superfood skincare. Free of chemicals and preservatives, these products will nourish your skin.

Here are some ideas of products you can use for different types of skin!

DRY SKIN

• Almond Milk Cleanser
  • A nourishing cleanser that cleanses while restoring elasticity. With organic almond oil, sprouted barley grains, and raw shea butter, this cleanser is decadent and soothing.
• Creme de la Rose
  • This regenerative, luxurious moisturizer will improve skin firmness, increase elasticity, and reduce wrinkles. It is suitable for anti-aging, as well as normal/dry skin. Featuring ingredients like Bulgarian Rose oil, goji berries, borage, and macadamia nut oil, your skin will feel and look younger after using this moisturizer.
• Vital-C Serum
  • Also suitable for normal, sensitive skin, and anti-aging, this serum is full of antioxidants that help correct cellular damage. It will also help reduce sun damage as well as stimulate collagen and elastin. The key superfoods in this serum are mandarins, carrot, and pumpkin. Hello orange!
• Oatmeal & Honey Masque
  • Soothing and sweet-smelling, this masque will nourish your skin while you relax for a spa night in. Featuring ingredients like manuka honey, mango, and oats, your skin will feel moist and dewy while becoming more supple and hydrated.

SENSITIVE SKIN

• Rose Geranium Cleanser
  • This gentle cleanser is designed to soothe irritation and reduce redness and inflammation. Its key ingredients include arnica montana, licorice, rose geranium, and coconut oil. If your skin is easily irritated and sensitive, this may be a good product to try. Also suitable for normal skin.
• Melon Peptide Creme Gel
  • Suitable for all skin types, this powerful moisturizer is also anti-aging. With antioxidants that reduce inflammation and promote skin regeneration, this gel will leave your skin feeling silky and luxurious. Key ingredients include CoQ10, niacinamide, cantaloupe, and aloe vera.
• Firming Flax Eye Cream
  • This gentle eye cream works to tone and firm the delicate area around your eyes. With powerful ingredients like flax, resveratrol, and CoQ10, it will help reduce wrinkles, hydrate and nourish your skin.
• Peaches and Cream Masque
  • You will be tempted to eat this masque with its sweet aroma of peaches and yogurt. Don’t. Pull out some dessert to enjoy while you use this masque. With rose hips, peaches, and whole milk yogurt, your complexion will be more radiant, your skin will be very hydrated. This probiotic masque is also suitable for dry, normal, and mature skin.

OILY & ACNE PRONE SKIN

• Sage & Grapefruit Cleanser
  • This detoxifying cleanser is gentle but effective. 2% salicylic acid, kale, dandelion, grapefruit, chlorella, and sage are only a few of the amazing ingredients that fill this cleanser. It helps regulate oily skin and breakouts, detoxifies, and is antibacterial.
• Light Facial Emulsion
  • This lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer will leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Containing a mineral solution of silica, sulphur, magnesium, and copper along with 1% salicylic acid, this is a great option for acne control. It is also a great option for an everyday moisturizer for normal skin. This moisturizer features yarrow, rose-hips, watercress, and green tea.
• Cucumber Juice Elixir
  • A green juice for your face! Finish up your cleansing routine with this refreshing and soothing toner. Revitalizing your complexion and tightening your pores, this mighty little toner will also help balance your face pH and nourish your skin. This nutrient-packed green juice contains spirulina, chlorella, kale, cucumber, kelp, and wheatgrass. Hello greens! Just be sure not to drink it.
• Glacial Mineral Mud Masque
  • Acne controlling, pore minimizing, skin detoxifying, what’s not to like about this masque? Calendula, rose hips, glacial mineral mud, and bentonite clay are a few of the ingredients that make this masque so effective. It is suitable for acne-prone and oily skin, as well as normal skin.

NORMAL SKIN

• Melon Foaming Cleanser
  • This brightening cleanser is full of superfoods like turmeric, cantaloupe melon, licorice, and tamarind seed extract. Also containing Vitamin B12 and Vitamin E, the melon foaming cleanser is hydrating, balancing, and anti-inflammatory. Gentle yet effective, it is suitable for all skin types.
• Nourish Night Cream
  • This luxurious night treatment works to nourish your skin and restore your complexion. Anti-aging and comforting to your skin, this cream helps to increase cellular turnover and suppleness while diminishing signs of aging and inflammation. Some of the key ingredients include resveratrol, white tea, olive squalane, CoQ10, and beta-glucosamine. The Nourish Night Cream also works well with sensitive, dry, and mature skin.
• Liquid Vitamin Hydra-Mist
  • Acai, tamarind, sea kelp, and vitamin C are a few of the ingredients in this hydrating mist. Regularly using it will help improve skin health and appearance. This is a great product to finish out your skincare routine, leaving your face with a dewy glow. The hydra-mist is excellent for all skin types.
• Clay & Algae Masque
  • Silky and velvety, this masque features French green clay, a powerful absorbent ingredient which tones and pulls oils and impurities away from your face. Containing dulse (a red algae), spirulina, evening primrose, and calendula, this treatment will firm, tone, and supply minerals to your skin. Excellent for a home spa treatment, and suitable for dry, mature, and sensitive skin as well.

ANTI-AGING

• Blueberry Fusion Cleanser
  • This antioxidant rich anti-aging cleanser formulated with organic blueberries and acai works to gently resurface your skin. It increases skin clarity and circulation while tightening pores and diminishing sun spots. And, it smells amazing. Excellent for oily, normal, and dry skin.
  • The melon foaming cleanser is also a good choice for anti-aging benefits!
• Solar Day Cream
  • This protective moisturizer is great for your morning skincare routine! It is formulated with 15% non-nano micronized zinc, a natural mineral sunscreen; it also contains vitamin C, pumpkin seed oil, vitamin E, and CoQ10 to defend your skin against sun damage and free radicals. This sheer, light moisturizer is also suitable for dry, normal, and sensitive skin.
• Radiance Enzyme Superfood Peel
  • This exfoliating peel smells so delicious, it is hard not to try and taste it. Therapeutic grade Manuka honey, which is a healing and antimicrobial superfood, gives this peel its aroma. It also contains kale, acerola cherry, camu camu, chlorella, goji berry, and graviola (or soursop). Hello superfoods! Regenerative and resurfacing, this combination of powerful ingredients will help bring your skin back to life. It will help minimize pores, increase circulation, and impart a luminous glow. It is excellent for any skin type.
• Sea Plasma Masque
  • Formulated with cucumber juice, kelp, and spirulina, this deep green masque hydrates and supplies amino acids to your skin. Restore a more youthful complexion with this relaxing, anti-aging masque. If you have dry skin, you might also love this masque.

No matter what skin type you have, The Body Deli has something for you. It’s important to feed your body with nutritious, clean foods. But it’s also important to be feeding your skin with clean products. Your skin is your largest organ, and it absorbs what you put onto it. The Body Deli skincare products have no preservatives (which is why many must be kept refrigerated to preserve their freshness) and are formulated with clean and organic ingredients. What’s hiding in your skincare products?

Come visit Nutrition 16:24 to see which skincare products we have available! We stock many of The Body Deli’s more popular products. We also place orders on demand for any of their skincare products that you desire! We are waiting to help you choose the perfect products for your skincare needs.

What in the world is EMF and EMR?

EMF stands for: Electromagnetic Fields.
EMR stands for: Electromagnetic Radiation.

You might be wondering what the difference is between EMF and EMR. Are they one and the same? Not quite! Electromagnetic fields are associated with electricity; they originate from either natural or man-made sources. An example of this is lightning and phone charger cables. When lightning strikes, an electromagnetic field surrounds the current of energy. And when you charge your phone, the charger cable emits a high-energy, low frequency electromagnetic field.

Electromagnetic radiation on the other hand consists of waves of electric and magnetic energy. Visible light is an example of electromagnetic radiation we can see. But there are far more wavelengths on the EMR spectrum that are invisible and harmful, such as x-rays and gamma rays.

One way you can think of EMF and EMR is invisible areas of energy.

These invisible areas of energy are produced by electricity and various forms of natural and man-made lighting; common sources include power lines, computers, cell phones, charging stations, etc.

There are 2 types of EMR. The EPA states, “There are two general kinds of electromagnetic radiation: ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is powerful enough to knock electrons out of their orbit around an atom. This process is called ionization and can be damaging to a body’s cells. Non-ionizing radiation has enough energy to move atoms in a molecule around and cause them to vibrate, which makes the atom heat up, but not enough to remove the electrons from the atoms.”

Non-Ionizing: Low level radiation, generally seen as harmless to humans

Ionizing: High level radiation with the potential for cellular and DNA damage

How does this affect all of us? A Nature study from 2015 notes the variety of adverse effects to man-made EMF. It states that due to certain aspects of man-made EMF/EMR (such as polarization), they are more bioactive and potent than natural EMF/EMR. Our body’s cells respond negatively to man-made fields. Cells become distressed and trigger a defense response to the repetitive stress of EMF. Constant stress responses release masses of highly reactive free radicals, which have been shown to cause cellular dysfunction and inflammation and interfere with the body’s DNA repair processes. This in turn leads to a weakened immune system, potential illness, disease, and even tumors. Some effects of EMF and EMR on the body include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Lethargy
• Headaches
• Depression/depressive symptoms
• Fatigue
• Dysesthesia 
• Palpitations
• Lack of concentration
• Memory changes
• Dizziness
• Anxiety

So how do we combat EMF, EMR, and its effects on the body? Nutrition 16:24 offers researched, patented devices to protect you from the detrimental effects of EMF radiation. These include devices for cell phones, computers, laptops, earbuds, smart meters, your home, and more. Using specialized technology, these devices work with your body to support it and reinforce its resilience to stress. For more information on this, the devices, and the technology behind it, please visit our Gia Wellness page. 

You may also feel free to email us or call us at (209) 629-6818. 

Links:

https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines#:~:text=Electromagnetic%20Fields%20(EMF),-Electromagnetic%20fields%20associated&text=For%20example%2C%20lightning%20during%20a,current%20is%20an%20electromagnetic%20field.&text=EMR%20associated%20with%20power%20lines,low%20frequency%20non%2Dionizing%20radiation

https://www.nature.com/articles/srep14914

Let’s talk about ashwagandha!

Ashwagandha is only one of many adaptogens! There are many other types of adaptogens, such as the ones listed below…

• Holy basil
• Maca
• Reishi
• Bacopa
• Ginseng
• Gotu Kola

This is not an exhaustive list by any means – there are many different adaptogenic herbs and plants and mushrooms that offer their own benefits. There are various adaptogens for different uses. Some target acute stress, while others target chronic, long-term stress. There are also others that strengthen immune health.

So what does ashwagandha do? Some of the benefits attributed to ashwagandha include antioxidant, anti-stress, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for anxiety, to reduce the physiological effects of stress, and to improve wellbeing.  Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that targets chronic or long-term stress. Although it won’t remove the stress from your life, it can improve your body’s capacity to deal with it and thus influence your mood and energy levels.

Ashwagandha contains something called withanolides. Withanolides are what gives ashwagandha its effectiveness. Withaferin A, a withanolide from ashwagandha, is thought to be the substance that gives the plant its anti-cancerous, antioxidant, and anti-angiogenesis properties. Withaferin A has been the subject of multiple studies researching its effects. It has been shown to inhibit cell growth in breast cancer as well as to relieve fatigue and toxicity from chemotherapy treatments.

Perhaps you want to try this adaptogenic herb! As with any supplement, sourcing and dosage is very important. Feel free to discuss this with Dr. Barton at Nutrition 16:24, or with your medical professional.

If you wish to supplement with ashwagandha, there are multiple ways to do so!

Tea

There are adaptogen teas being offered that may be a good option for you. If you are a tea lover, you might consider this. If tea is just not your thing, read on.

Powdered Ashwagandha

This is a great flexible option to add ashwagandha to your diet. You can add it to your smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or any food you wish. Start with small amounts at first before adding more.

Liquid

Ashwagandha is also available in liquid form. MediHerb offers ashwagandha in liquid form, with standardized amounts of withanolides. Nutrition 16:24 also provides elixirs which contain ashwagandha. We also have other forms of ashwagandha available. Inquire with our office if you would like to learn more about this.

Pill Form

For those who don’t mind swallowing an extra pill, this is a very easy way to supplement with this adaptogen. 

Again, if you are out shopping for ashwagandha, be careful in selecting your supplement. Make sure the quality is excellent and check the active ingredients to make sure there are withanolides. If you want to be sure that your ashwagandha is well sourced and of excellent quality, we invite you to purchase from our office. Nutrition 16:24 offers ashwagandha in different forms. Email our office or call us to learn more and to order if you are interested.

The holiday season is upon us, and along with that comes stress. Whether or not you choose to supplement with ashwagandha, we encourage you to be filling your body with good, clean sources of proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Whatever the holiday season brings for you, we hope you are able to experience some peace and joy among the chaos and stress.

Learn More…

https://drinkmetta.com/blogs/the-elevated-life/the-ultimate-guide-to-adaptogens#:~:text=Adaptogens%20are%20a%20select%20group,physical%2C%20chemical%20or%20biological%20needs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10956379/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/withanolide
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780123964922000187
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/withaferin-a
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128146194000100
Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy, 2nd Ed. Kerry Bone & Simon Mills.

Sadness, grief, confusion, guilt, fear, anger…

Studies confirm that emotions are major contributing factors in acute and chronic illness. The field of psychoneuroimmunology is a fascinating one, and many researchers have studied the effects of emotions on acute and chronic illness. Psychological stress can contribute to longer illnesses, a higher risk for infection, and slower wound healing¹. Negative emotions can also cause oxidative stress, which may result in impaired detoxification pathways, increased cholesterol, and more. Another study states: “The endocrine system [consisting of organs and glands which release hormones directly into the blood] serves as one central gateway for psychological influences on health; stress and depression can provoke the release of pituitary and adrenal hormones that have multiple effects on immune function”². Our bodies are designed in amazing ways! It is fascinating to discover how the body functions. 

During these current times of economic, social and political unrest, stress abounds. How do you respond to stress?

Flower Essence Combinations are homeopathic medicines that target emotions related to organs, nutritional deficiencies and body systems. These are a positive supportive product that address stress in a healthy, helpful way. They are not to replace a healthy diet by any means, but they have a great potential to support your body and emotions in ways that you need.

Flower Essences, like the name suggests, are extracts taken from the flowering part of a plant. Unlike essential oils, Flower Essences have no physical part of the flower in them, and have no smell. They come in liquid form, and are taken by a dropper in the mouth. Studies have shown that Flower Essences reduce anxiety and support your body’s ability to respond to environmental stressors³. In one study, participants also noted that they experienced better sleep patterns, decreased headaches, and a better ability to respond to stress⁴.

Nutrition 16:24 now offers a line of Flower Essences. I’ll list a few of them here. However, there are a total of 19 different flower combinations targeting various emotions and health issues. 

#19 STRNG-MND (epiphysis, pancreas, liver, stomach, spleen, kidneys, heart, endocrine
system)

For temporary relief of minor symptoms related to sadness, grief, and internal emotional tension.
– Sadness, despondency, inner emotional tension

#20 VTLTY (adrenals, thyroid, pancreas, limbic system)

For the relief of symptoms such as deep, inner tiredness resulting from prolonged emotional struggles, grief, or anxieties. Helps restore emotional vitality.
– Emotional conflicts, fear of facing new challenges

#22 SOMATICA (pineal gland, autonomic nervous system)

For the relief of symptoms related to fear, repressed emotions, and tension held in the muscles and organs. Lethargy, confusion, inattentiveness and daydreaming. Floating sensation as if anesthetized.
– Lack of grounding and practicality, somatic effects due to repressed feelings

As you can see from the descriptions, the essences address deep seated emotions and thoughts. 

Each of these flower combinations has specific homeopathic flower extracts to address particular emotions, and there are many more available to address your unique, special needs and circumstances.

There may be a flower essence that would be extremely helpful and supportive to your mind and body.
Visit us at Nutrition 16:24 to learn more about how you may benefit from these remedies.

Resources:

¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2868080/

² http://pni.osumc.edu/KG%20Publications%20(pdf)/150.pdf

³ https://journals.sfu.ca/seemj/index.php/seemj/article/viewFile/332/294

⁴ https://acta-ape.org/wp-content/uploads/articles_xml/1982-0194-ape-S0103-21002012000200013/1982-0194-ape-S0103-21002012000200013-en.pdf

https://www.drnorthrup.com/what-are-flower-essences/

Our skin is the largest organ of our body and is a natural detoxification system. One of the ways our body can purge toxins is through our pores, by sweating. Though our liver and kidneys are responsible for most of the detoxification that happens in the body, when the toxic load is too heavy to process our body will use sweat as a reliable back up. Materials like heavy metals and BPA have been detected in sweat, and when left in the body can build up in our fat tissues and bloodstream. Not only does sweat help rid our bodies of toxic waste, but sweating can also release endorphins, which are our feel good hormones in the body. It’s no wonder you feel so good after that heated yoga class! There are many benefits from breaking a sweat and people have been using sweat inducing therapies like saunas for thousands of years.

Of course sweating it out through regular exercise is recommended for a healthy body and mind, but saunas are a great addition to your sweat routine and are beneficial in many more ways than just making you perspire. What’s unique to infrared saunas is their ability to raise your core temperature starting from your innermost cells. This allows for a much deeper detox than you would experience from other mechanisms, like heaters or steam, that only heat the air around you.

“Sunlighten saunas are highly effective for detoxification because of our highly-efficient and patented Solocarbon far infrared heating technology – the only technology proven to raise core body temperature by two-to-three degrees. Rather than simply heating the ambient air to draw out toxins, our sauna detox will heat your core to expel them.” -sunlighten.com.

Sunlighten saunas use all three modes of infrared frequencies (near, mid, and far) and have customized programs that can be catered to your specific needs. This chart shows which wavelength can help support you and your body’s needs.

As you can see from the chart, some additional benefits of an infrared sauna include:

• weight loss
• immune support
• pain relief
• anti-aging and collagen production
• relaxation
• detoxification
• increased blood circulation

To fully experience the immune-strengthening benefits of a sauna, it’s recommended to use it at least twice a week throughout the year.

Co-owner of Sunlighten, Connie Zack, shares her passion about full spectrum sauna technologies in this podcast interview.

To book your appointment:

Call 209-629-6818 or email patientsupport@nutrition1624functionalhealth.com