.....I better consult my neuro first before taking the grape-seed extract with the info that I have now....thks NHE 
herbals
I've approched my neuro rgding the grape-seed extract armed with the info I got frm NHE. This is what he got to say :
"The article you showed me says that grape-seed may increase the gamma-interferon in the body. WHile this may be good for certain conditions, gamma-interferon has been found to be bad for mouse models of MS. It is only the beta form of the interferon that has been found to be beneficial in mouse models of MS thats why it was tested in humans - which fortunately also showed good results." He wouldn't encourage me to take up the grape-seed extract.
I also asked his opinion regarding C0Q10 and Vit C. He told me that CoQ10, he believe, should not matter much in MS. It's main action is in some oxygen reaction in the energy-creating activities particularly in the muscles. He's not sure if this really crosses over into the brain to really make any effect at all. He also mentioned that Mega doses of vitamin C (I mention to him that I'm taking 1000mg of it every day) may cause the body acidity to increase. If the nerves are already sensitive to changes in its milieu, acidity may in fact disturb the balance and cause the nerves to work in a less ideal environment. Also, while vit c MAY help ward off some viruses, it may in some ways increase our body's resistance (or antibodies which we use to fight off infection). Since the body is not discriminating when it comes to which antibody to produce more or less, then the antibodies which may be directed against the coating of the nerves may also be produced - this may then attack the nerve coatings and lead to some exacerbations. Looks like I have to decrease the amount of Vit C that I'm taking.......
"The article you showed me says that grape-seed may increase the gamma-interferon in the body. WHile this may be good for certain conditions, gamma-interferon has been found to be bad for mouse models of MS. It is only the beta form of the interferon that has been found to be beneficial in mouse models of MS thats why it was tested in humans - which fortunately also showed good results." He wouldn't encourage me to take up the grape-seed extract.
I also asked his opinion regarding C0Q10 and Vit C. He told me that CoQ10, he believe, should not matter much in MS. It's main action is in some oxygen reaction in the energy-creating activities particularly in the muscles. He's not sure if this really crosses over into the brain to really make any effect at all. He also mentioned that Mega doses of vitamin C (I mention to him that I'm taking 1000mg of it every day) may cause the body acidity to increase. If the nerves are already sensitive to changes in its milieu, acidity may in fact disturb the balance and cause the nerves to work in a less ideal environment. Also, while vit c MAY help ward off some viruses, it may in some ways increase our body's resistance (or antibodies which we use to fight off infection). Since the body is not discriminating when it comes to which antibody to produce more or less, then the antibodies which may be directed against the coating of the nerves may also be produced - this may then attack the nerve coatings and lead to some exacerbations. Looks like I have to decrease the amount of Vit C that I'm taking.......
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4110948.stm
THIS IS FROM THE BBC ON JUNE 20,2005
The world's first cannabis-based drug has gone on sale in Canada, and the UK firm which developed it says it remains committed winning a UK sales licence.
Sativex is a mouth spray for multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers, who can use it to alleviate pain.
GW Pharmaceuticals said it remains "committed to securing approval of Sativex across Europe and elsewhere".
GW Pharmaceuticals has been asked to provide more data to support its application for a UK licence.
Sativex contains the same active ingredients as cannabis - tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol.
'Milestone'
GW Pharmaceuticals said the Canadian market launch of Sativex was a "transforming event" for the company.
It marked "not only our first successful product launch but the first launch of a cannabis derived prescription medicine anywhere in the world", the Salisbury-based firm said.
GW Pharmaceuticals also announced its pre-tax losses narrowed to £5.9m in the six months to 31 March, compared to £7.9m year-earlier.
It is now looking forward to getting its first sales revenues.
German drugs group Bayer has taken on the marketing of Sativex in Canada, paying GW Pharmaceuticals £1m in cash for the licence agreement since 31 March.
GW Pharmaceuticals had originally hoped to win UK approval for Sativex in 2003.
The UK government granted GW Pharmaceuticals a licence to cultivate cannabis for medical research purposes and plants are grown at a secret location in the English countryside.
Last December, however, the UK authorities said they wanted more evidence about its benefits before they approved it.
The world's first cannabis-based drug has gone on sale in Canada, and the UK firm which developed it says it remains committed winning a UK sales licence.
Sativex is a mouth spray for multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferers, who can use it to alleviate pain.
GW Pharmaceuticals said it remains "committed to securing approval of Sativex across Europe and elsewhere".
GW Pharmaceuticals has been asked to provide more data to support its application for a UK licence.
Sativex contains the same active ingredients as cannabis - tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol.
'Milestone'
GW Pharmaceuticals said the Canadian market launch of Sativex was a "transforming event" for the company.
It marked "not only our first successful product launch but the first launch of a cannabis derived prescription medicine anywhere in the world", the Salisbury-based firm said.
GW Pharmaceuticals also announced its pre-tax losses narrowed to £5.9m in the six months to 31 March, compared to £7.9m year-earlier.
It is now looking forward to getting its first sales revenues.
German drugs group Bayer has taken on the marketing of Sativex in Canada, paying GW Pharmaceuticals £1m in cash for the licence agreement since 31 March.
GW Pharmaceuticals had originally hoped to win UK approval for Sativex in 2003.
The UK government granted GW Pharmaceuticals a licence to cultivate cannabis for medical research purposes and plants are grown at a secret location in the English countryside.
Last December, however, the UK authorities said they wanted more evidence about its benefits before they approved it.
Just as a note hubby used to smoke it so I'm more leery than most as I know it helped him NOT. Gave it up last summer and actually we have a bunch of our support group on it and they are suffering. They are actually worse off IMO and can't stick out a meeting as they seem to be a tad on edge. They also seem to be looking for something but it isn't helping because if it was you wouldn't be looking. Some have kids and I've witnessed how short they are with the little guys versus how they were before. Make sure the pain is so great that you are harming your kids more for NOT taking it rather than if you are. As a spouse I want you out of pain but on the other hand the good of the few does not mean that the good of the many get to suffer(KIDS). Kids first as always. If it works for you great but really check it out it is an addiction no matter what you think. 
Chlorella, and wild blue-green ( Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) contain more chlorophyll it says below. We tend to eat Nori around here but that has been only the last few months. I'd never really checked into the different sea veggies very much before
Algae - Seaweed
Kombu - Nori - Hijiki / Hiziki -Wakame - Arame - agar-agar - Spirulina - Chlorella - Minerals - Health
Index
Ocean / Sea algae are the richest natural source of minerals, trace minerals and rare earth elements. They are usually sold dry in Health Food stores.
All the minerals found in sea water are also found in sea algae.
Here is the list of all the minerals, trace minerals and rare earth elements found in sea water:
77 Elements in Sea Water
Element Name Chemical Symbol Element Name Chemical Symbol
Aluminum AL Molybdenum MO
Antimony SB Neodymium ND
Arsenic AS Nickel NI
Barium BA Niobium NB
Beryllium BE Osmium OS
Bismuth BI Palladium PD
Boron B Phosphorus P
Bromine BR Platinum PT
Cadmium CD Potassium K
Calcium CA Praseodymium PR
Carbon C Rhenium RE
Cerium CE Rhodium RH
Cesium CS Rubidium RB
Chloride CL Ruthenium RU
Chromium CR Samarium SM
Cobalt CO Scandium SC
Copper CU Selenium SE
Dysprosium DY Silicon SI
Erbium ER Silver AG
Europium EU Sodium NA
Fluoride F Strontium SR
Gadolinium GD Sulfur (sulfate) S
Gallium GA Tantalum TA
Germanium GE Tellurium TE
Gold AU Terbium TB
Hafnium HF Thallium TL
Holmium HO Thorium TH
Indium IN Thulium TM
Iodine I Tin SN
Iridium IR Titanium TI
Iron FE Tungsten W
Lanthanum LA Vanadium V
Lead PB Ytterbium YB
Lithium LI Yttrium Y
Lutetium LU Zinc ZN
Magnesium MG Zirconium ZR
Manganese MN
Mercury HG
Ref. Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 65th Ed. 1984-1985, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl., p. F-149
Minerals that are negatively charged have two very important benefits.
It greatly increases the transport and bioavailability of other nutrients gotten from foods and/or vitamins and other supplements.
It will attract toxins and heavy metals from the body and flush them out. Clinical tests done in the US. and in Germany have verified this.
Minerals in their metallic form can be toxic to the human body. Dangerous levels of these metallic minerals can accumulate in the tissues and create serious health problems.
Kombu, Wakame, Nori, Hiziki / Hijiki , Arame, Dulse , Kelp, Irish moss ...
Dishes made with those algae are rich source of Iodine, Calcium, Iron, Silicon, Copper, Zinc and Selenium.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kombu algae
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Make a cup of tea with a little peace of this algae and drink it three times a weak. Use it when you are making beans, or in soups , together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Wakame algae
Soak dry alga for at least 10 minutes, before you use it.
Use this algae in soups, together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Nori algae
You can roast it and eat it few times a week. Children love to eat those pressed leaves. You can also fry it as a chips, for children, or boil it and make a condiment with tamari soy sauce.
Hiziki / Hijiki alga
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Is very nice made with onion, or with tofu and carrots.
Arame Alga
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Is very nice made with onion, or in soups.
Dulse
Soak dry alga for at least 12 minutes, before you use it.
Use this algae in soups, together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Micro- Algae
Spirulina, Chlorella, and wild blue-green ( Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) contain more chlorophyll than any other foods. Dried micro algae, are the richest source of proteins, beta-carotene, and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), and very rich source of GLA.
Micro algae have been successfully used to improve immunity of people with Cancer, AIDS, Colitus, Diabetes ...
Micro Algae are single-celled organisms and simple multicellular plants that live wherever there is water-in the sea, fresh water or moist soil. Spirulina is a blue-green alga that's a rich source of proteins, carotenoids and other micronutrients. Studies now support its antiviral and anticancer properties. Chlorella, a single-celled alga, has the highest known levels of chlorophyll of any plant.
Spirulina
Blue-green micro alga .
Its nutrients are very easy to digest :
protein ( biliprotein ), carbohydrates ( mucopolysaccharides, rhamnose and glycogen ) , 50 different minerals and trace minerals ( all your body needs ) , beta-carotene , chlorophyll, GLA omega3 fatty acid, and many other nutrients.
Very good for people with severe liver damage resulting from malnutrition, internal pollution or drugs.
According to standard nutritional tests, the digestive absorption of the protein in Spirulina and Chlorella is four times greater than that in beef.
Spirulina contain blue pigment phycocyanin, a biliprotein which have been shown to inhibit cancer-colony formation.*
Spirulina, a blue-green alga sold as a supplement, is an excellent source of chlorophyll and disease-fighting compounds called phytochemicals. Phytochemicals (phyto is Greek for "plant") are compounds in plants and fruits that imbue them with color and protect them against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health are studying phytochemicals to understand their role in disease prevention.
Mouth cancer is one disorder that may be treated or prevented by phytochemicals, especially beta-carotene, which is found in abundance in spirulina. This may explain why the alga slowed and even stopped the growth of cancerous cells in scientific studies. Padmanabhan P. Nair, Ph.D., a scientist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recently demonstrated that spirulina is a particularly potent inhibitor of mouth cancer. Nair and his colleagues gave daily spirulina supplements to volunteers in southwestern India for 12 months. The volunteers were alike in many ways: All chewed tobacco and had precancerous lesions in their mouths called leukoplakia. After taking the alga for one year, 45 percent of the volunteers had recovered, and the thick, white, precancerous patches in their mouths completely disappeared. Another 12 percent of the volunteers showed significant improvement, raising the figure to 57 percent who benefited from spirulina supplements (Nutrition and Cancer, 1995, vol. 24).
"Spirulina is an inexpensive source of beta-carotene and other carotenoids, and it's also easy to digest," says Nair. "Incidence of cancer of the mouth and the cervix -- which have the same kind of mucous membrane -- is rising around the world, and spirulina may help many people."
Beta-carotene is just one of the many nutrients in spirulina. This alga also provides iron and is the most concentrated plant source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), according to the World Review of Nutrition and Diet (1995, vol. 77). GLA, an essential fatty acid, is key to the body's ability to make vital prostaglandins, substances that control body functions and help alleviate health problems such as arthritis and heart disease, according to one preliminary report (Journal of Applied Phycology, 1993, vol. 5). GLA supplementation results in blood's becoming more "slippery" since prostaglandins reduce blood platelet adhesion so that cholesterol deposits in arteries have less chance to build up and create arterial blockage, according to Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James Balch, M.D., and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C. (Avery).
One study involving 30 male patients with mild hypertension and high cholesterol showed a significant reduction of LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) in the men who took the spirulina supplements for four weeks (Nutrition Report International, 1988, vol. 37
Chlorella
Chlorella contains more than 20 vitamins and minerals including B complex, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, iron and calcium, almost 70% protein, and 19 of the 22 amino acids. It is the highest source of chlorophyll which is a liver detoxifier, a bowel cleanser, and a catalyst for the absorption of other elements, including iron. It is the highest source of the nucleic acids DNA and RNA, reduced levels of which are believed to be implicated in physical deterioration and ageing
Chlorella was first identified by a Dutch scientist in 1890. But it was not until the 1950's that Japanese studies threw light on its enormous potential. Researchers discovered that some of chlorella's beneficial health effects appeared to stem from a high concentration of chlorophyll and beta carotene, as well as from its unusual cell wall.
Cell wall of this alga binds with heavy metals, pesticides, PCB, ... and carries these toxins safely out of the body.
It contains Chlorella Growth Factor ( CGF ). CGF strengthens immunity by improving the activity of T- and B- cells, which defense against viruses. CGF strengthens immunity by improving the activity of macrophages , which destroys cancer.
The Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) was isolated in the 1950s and indicates the level of chlorella's nucleic acids, says Paul Pitchford. Nucleic acids -- RNA and DNA -- in the body direct our cellular growth and repair, yet they decline as we age, and they're depleted by stress, pollution and poor diet. The nucleus of chlorella appears to be a good source of RNA/DNA, which is why the alga is credited with strengthening immunity including the increased activity of T- and B-cells (part of the immune system), reports Pitchford, citing several studies done in Japan in 1984 and 1985 regarding chlorella and its antitumor effect.
Sometimes called the green blood tonic and cleanser, it's reported to be beneficial in cases of anemia, and studies have shown its ability to stimulate regeneration of tissue, accelerate the healing of wounds and inhibit the growth of some tumors.
Chlorella's cell wall is also a useful source of fiber and in conjunction with chlorophyll, is valuable for detoxifying the bowel and for the treatment of constipation.
A unique plant-like property of this wall not found in any other algae, is its ability to bind with toxic metals such as cadmium, lead or mercury as well as pesticides and remove them from the body. However, this same fibrous quality makes chlorella hard to digest and so it is usually broken down mechanically during processing to enable maximum absorption.
Chlorella's protein content is around 60% and like spirulina it contains all essential amino, fatty and nucleic acids. It is also a good source of beta carotene and vitamin B12, which makes it useful for vegans in particular. Studies have also shown it can enhance the liver's detoxification processes, and consequently, it's reputed to be beneficial for hangovers!
At Aston Villa Football Club a five month trial compared the performance of players taking chlorella with that of those who didn't. The results were significant according to coach Roger Spry "The players taking the chlorella seemed to have more energy and recovered from intense exercises more quickly than the others", he says. "One unexpected effect was a noticeable improvement in the condition of their skin and hair".
Some scientists think chlorella may help to prevent degenerative disease and even slow down the aging process, while American researcher Dr. David Steenblock believes it has great potential in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, Epsteir Barr disease and other equally chronic viral illnesses.
Chlorophyll, which you can take in supplements derived from green micro-algae and wheat grass, may also help detoxify the body. "Because it absorbs and inactivates toxic materials, people have traditionally taken spirulina and chlorella for their high chlorophyll content," says Ron Klatz, D.O., president of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine in Colorado Springs.
The single-celled chlorella alga has become popular because it's high in chlorophyll and because of its nucleic acids, which may strengthen immunity.
This research seems at best preliminary, but it's reinforced by another Japanese study done with AIDS-infected mice that showed some increase in immune function when the mice were fed chlorella (International Journal on Immunopharmacology, June 1995).
References :
* Troxler,R. and Saffer, B. (Harvard School of Dental Med. Researchers ) Algae Derived Phycocyanin is both Cytostatic and Cytotoxic ( dose-response ) to oral squamous cell carcinoma ( human or hamster ). Paper delivered at International Association for Dental Research General Session, 1987
<shortened url>
Algae - Seaweed
Kombu - Nori - Hijiki / Hiziki -Wakame - Arame - agar-agar - Spirulina - Chlorella - Minerals - Health
Index
Ocean / Sea algae are the richest natural source of minerals, trace minerals and rare earth elements. They are usually sold dry in Health Food stores.
All the minerals found in sea water are also found in sea algae.
Here is the list of all the minerals, trace minerals and rare earth elements found in sea water:
77 Elements in Sea Water
Element Name Chemical Symbol Element Name Chemical Symbol
Aluminum AL Molybdenum MO
Antimony SB Neodymium ND
Arsenic AS Nickel NI
Barium BA Niobium NB
Beryllium BE Osmium OS
Bismuth BI Palladium PD
Boron B Phosphorus P
Bromine BR Platinum PT
Cadmium CD Potassium K
Calcium CA Praseodymium PR
Carbon C Rhenium RE
Cerium CE Rhodium RH
Cesium CS Rubidium RB
Chloride CL Ruthenium RU
Chromium CR Samarium SM
Cobalt CO Scandium SC
Copper CU Selenium SE
Dysprosium DY Silicon SI
Erbium ER Silver AG
Europium EU Sodium NA
Fluoride F Strontium SR
Gadolinium GD Sulfur (sulfate) S
Gallium GA Tantalum TA
Germanium GE Tellurium TE
Gold AU Terbium TB
Hafnium HF Thallium TL
Holmium HO Thorium TH
Indium IN Thulium TM
Iodine I Tin SN
Iridium IR Titanium TI
Iron FE Tungsten W
Lanthanum LA Vanadium V
Lead PB Ytterbium YB
Lithium LI Yttrium Y
Lutetium LU Zinc ZN
Magnesium MG Zirconium ZR
Manganese MN
Mercury HG
Ref. Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 65th Ed. 1984-1985, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl., p. F-149
Minerals that are negatively charged have two very important benefits.
It greatly increases the transport and bioavailability of other nutrients gotten from foods and/or vitamins and other supplements.
It will attract toxins and heavy metals from the body and flush them out. Clinical tests done in the US. and in Germany have verified this.
Minerals in their metallic form can be toxic to the human body. Dangerous levels of these metallic minerals can accumulate in the tissues and create serious health problems.
Kombu, Wakame, Nori, Hiziki / Hijiki , Arame, Dulse , Kelp, Irish moss ...
Dishes made with those algae are rich source of Iodine, Calcium, Iron, Silicon, Copper, Zinc and Selenium.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kombu algae
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Make a cup of tea with a little peace of this algae and drink it three times a weak. Use it when you are making beans, or in soups , together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Wakame algae
Soak dry alga for at least 10 minutes, before you use it.
Use this algae in soups, together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Nori algae
You can roast it and eat it few times a week. Children love to eat those pressed leaves. You can also fry it as a chips, for children, or boil it and make a condiment with tamari soy sauce.
Hiziki / Hijiki alga
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Is very nice made with onion, or with tofu and carrots.
Arame Alga
Soak dry alga for at least 15 minutes, before you use it.
Is very nice made with onion, or in soups.
Dulse
Soak dry alga for at least 12 minutes, before you use it.
Use this algae in soups, together with vegetable, grains or beans.
Micro- Algae
Spirulina, Chlorella, and wild blue-green ( Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) contain more chlorophyll than any other foods. Dried micro algae, are the richest source of proteins, beta-carotene, and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), and very rich source of GLA.
Micro algae have been successfully used to improve immunity of people with Cancer, AIDS, Colitus, Diabetes ...
Micro Algae are single-celled organisms and simple multicellular plants that live wherever there is water-in the sea, fresh water or moist soil. Spirulina is a blue-green alga that's a rich source of proteins, carotenoids and other micronutrients. Studies now support its antiviral and anticancer properties. Chlorella, a single-celled alga, has the highest known levels of chlorophyll of any plant.
Spirulina
Blue-green micro alga .
Its nutrients are very easy to digest :
protein ( biliprotein ), carbohydrates ( mucopolysaccharides, rhamnose and glycogen ) , 50 different minerals and trace minerals ( all your body needs ) , beta-carotene , chlorophyll, GLA omega3 fatty acid, and many other nutrients.
Very good for people with severe liver damage resulting from malnutrition, internal pollution or drugs.
According to standard nutritional tests, the digestive absorption of the protein in Spirulina and Chlorella is four times greater than that in beef.
Spirulina contain blue pigment phycocyanin, a biliprotein which have been shown to inhibit cancer-colony formation.*
Spirulina, a blue-green alga sold as a supplement, is an excellent source of chlorophyll and disease-fighting compounds called phytochemicals. Phytochemicals (phyto is Greek for "plant") are compounds in plants and fruits that imbue them with color and protect them against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health are studying phytochemicals to understand their role in disease prevention.
Mouth cancer is one disorder that may be treated or prevented by phytochemicals, especially beta-carotene, which is found in abundance in spirulina. This may explain why the alga slowed and even stopped the growth of cancerous cells in scientific studies. Padmanabhan P. Nair, Ph.D., a scientist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, recently demonstrated that spirulina is a particularly potent inhibitor of mouth cancer. Nair and his colleagues gave daily spirulina supplements to volunteers in southwestern India for 12 months. The volunteers were alike in many ways: All chewed tobacco and had precancerous lesions in their mouths called leukoplakia. After taking the alga for one year, 45 percent of the volunteers had recovered, and the thick, white, precancerous patches in their mouths completely disappeared. Another 12 percent of the volunteers showed significant improvement, raising the figure to 57 percent who benefited from spirulina supplements (Nutrition and Cancer, 1995, vol. 24).
"Spirulina is an inexpensive source of beta-carotene and other carotenoids, and it's also easy to digest," says Nair. "Incidence of cancer of the mouth and the cervix -- which have the same kind of mucous membrane -- is rising around the world, and spirulina may help many people."
Beta-carotene is just one of the many nutrients in spirulina. This alga also provides iron and is the most concentrated plant source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), according to the World Review of Nutrition and Diet (1995, vol. 77). GLA, an essential fatty acid, is key to the body's ability to make vital prostaglandins, substances that control body functions and help alleviate health problems such as arthritis and heart disease, according to one preliminary report (Journal of Applied Phycology, 1993, vol. 5). GLA supplementation results in blood's becoming more "slippery" since prostaglandins reduce blood platelet adhesion so that cholesterol deposits in arteries have less chance to build up and create arterial blockage, according to Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James Balch, M.D., and Phyllis Balch, C.N.C. (Avery).
One study involving 30 male patients with mild hypertension and high cholesterol showed a significant reduction of LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) in the men who took the spirulina supplements for four weeks (Nutrition Report International, 1988, vol. 37
Chlorella
Chlorella contains more than 20 vitamins and minerals including B complex, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, iron and calcium, almost 70% protein, and 19 of the 22 amino acids. It is the highest source of chlorophyll which is a liver detoxifier, a bowel cleanser, and a catalyst for the absorption of other elements, including iron. It is the highest source of the nucleic acids DNA and RNA, reduced levels of which are believed to be implicated in physical deterioration and ageing
Chlorella was first identified by a Dutch scientist in 1890. But it was not until the 1950's that Japanese studies threw light on its enormous potential. Researchers discovered that some of chlorella's beneficial health effects appeared to stem from a high concentration of chlorophyll and beta carotene, as well as from its unusual cell wall.
Cell wall of this alga binds with heavy metals, pesticides, PCB, ... and carries these toxins safely out of the body.
It contains Chlorella Growth Factor ( CGF ). CGF strengthens immunity by improving the activity of T- and B- cells, which defense against viruses. CGF strengthens immunity by improving the activity of macrophages , which destroys cancer.
The Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) was isolated in the 1950s and indicates the level of chlorella's nucleic acids, says Paul Pitchford. Nucleic acids -- RNA and DNA -- in the body direct our cellular growth and repair, yet they decline as we age, and they're depleted by stress, pollution and poor diet. The nucleus of chlorella appears to be a good source of RNA/DNA, which is why the alga is credited with strengthening immunity including the increased activity of T- and B-cells (part of the immune system), reports Pitchford, citing several studies done in Japan in 1984 and 1985 regarding chlorella and its antitumor effect.
Sometimes called the green blood tonic and cleanser, it's reported to be beneficial in cases of anemia, and studies have shown its ability to stimulate regeneration of tissue, accelerate the healing of wounds and inhibit the growth of some tumors.
Chlorella's cell wall is also a useful source of fiber and in conjunction with chlorophyll, is valuable for detoxifying the bowel and for the treatment of constipation.
A unique plant-like property of this wall not found in any other algae, is its ability to bind with toxic metals such as cadmium, lead or mercury as well as pesticides and remove them from the body. However, this same fibrous quality makes chlorella hard to digest and so it is usually broken down mechanically during processing to enable maximum absorption.
Chlorella's protein content is around 60% and like spirulina it contains all essential amino, fatty and nucleic acids. It is also a good source of beta carotene and vitamin B12, which makes it useful for vegans in particular. Studies have also shown it can enhance the liver's detoxification processes, and consequently, it's reputed to be beneficial for hangovers!
At Aston Villa Football Club a five month trial compared the performance of players taking chlorella with that of those who didn't. The results were significant according to coach Roger Spry "The players taking the chlorella seemed to have more energy and recovered from intense exercises more quickly than the others", he says. "One unexpected effect was a noticeable improvement in the condition of their skin and hair".
Some scientists think chlorella may help to prevent degenerative disease and even slow down the aging process, while American researcher Dr. David Steenblock believes it has great potential in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, Epsteir Barr disease and other equally chronic viral illnesses.
Chlorophyll, which you can take in supplements derived from green micro-algae and wheat grass, may also help detoxify the body. "Because it absorbs and inactivates toxic materials, people have traditionally taken spirulina and chlorella for their high chlorophyll content," says Ron Klatz, D.O., president of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine in Colorado Springs.
The single-celled chlorella alga has become popular because it's high in chlorophyll and because of its nucleic acids, which may strengthen immunity.
This research seems at best preliminary, but it's reinforced by another Japanese study done with AIDS-infected mice that showed some increase in immune function when the mice were fed chlorella (International Journal on Immunopharmacology, June 1995).
References :
* Troxler,R. and Saffer, B. (Harvard School of Dental Med. Researchers ) Algae Derived Phycocyanin is both Cytostatic and Cytotoxic ( dose-response ) to oral squamous cell carcinoma ( human or hamster ). Paper delivered at International Association for Dental Research General Session, 1987
<shortened url>
John was diagnosed Jan 2005. On lipitor 20mg .On Copaxone since July 4,2005. Vitamin D3 2000iu-4000iu (depending on sunshine months)June 10 2005(RX::Dr. O'Connor) Omega 3 as well Turmeric since April 2005. Q10 60mg. 1500mg liquid Glucosamine Nov 2005.
Re: Chlorella
The term "blue-green algae" is rather old and also misleading. Blue-green algae are really photosynthetic bacteria which are classified in the group cyanobacteria. They have more in common with other bacteria than they do with eukaryotic algae.Melody wrote:Spirulina
Blue-green micro alga.
This statement doesn't make a lot of sense to me. First off, as a cyanobacterium, spirulina does not have a nucleus (anyone who has taken even high school biology would know this). Moreover, nearly all plant and animal cells that are consumed contain DNA and RNA. Anyways, if consuming Chlorella really does increase the activity of T and B cells thereby strengthening the immune system, then this effect does not seem desirable in MS patients and consuming Chlorella would appear to be contraindicated.The nucleus of chlorella appears to be a good source of RNA/DNA, which is why the alga is credited with strengthening immunity including the increased activity of T- and B-cells (part of the immune system), reports Pitchford, citing several studies done in Japan in 1984 and 1985 regarding chlorella and its antitumor effect.
NHE
Last edited by NHE on Sun Jan 11, 2009 6:02 pm, edited 1 time in total.
-
CureOrBust
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- Location: Sydney, Australia
Found at http://www.stemcelltherapies.org/multip ... osis_2.htmChlorella:
This single cell fresh water detoxifying algae raises uric acid levels safely and consistently and should be considered by any person with MS.
Saw the above in a general search and remembered this thread. It seems to imply that the help specific for MS may be by raising uric acid levels, just as inosine does.
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SarahLonglands
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I take it, 12 very small tabs per day, bought from the best source: http://chlorella-europe.com/index.html. Since I am on abx I take it primarily for detoxification, but it is supposed to be beneficial for MS in any case.
Sarah
Sarah
An Itinerary in Light and Shadow Completed Dr Charles Stratton / Dr David Wheldon abx regime for aggressive secondary progressive MS in June 2007, after four years. Still improving with no relapses since starting. Can't run but can paint all day.
Here's another study on ginkgo that found modest benefits for some participants.
Objective
The objective of this study was to determine whether a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) improved functional performance in individuals with MS.
Design
This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. The end point was change between baseline (ie, preintervention) and follow-up evaluation following a regimen of four tablets per day at 60 mg per tablet for four weeks.
Setting
The study was conducted in academic and clinical based settings.
Patients/Participants
Twenty-two individuals with MS were randomly assigned to either the treatment or control condition. Groups did not differ with respect to age, IQ, and education.
Intervention
Half of the subjects received 240 mg per day of ginkgo special extract (EGb 761), and the other half received placebo.
Main Outcome Measure
The main outcome measures assessed depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]), fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]); symptom severity (Symptom Inventory [SI]) and functional performance (Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis [FAMS]).
Results
The ginkgo group had significantly more individuals showing improvement on four or more measures with improvements associated with significantly larger effect sizes on measures of fatigue, symptom severity, and functionality. The ginkgo group also exhibited less fatigue at follow-up compared with the placebo group.
Conclusions
This exploratory pilot study showed that no adverse events or side effects were reported and that ginkgo exerted modest beneficial effects on select functional measures (eg, fatigue) among some individuals with MS.
<shortened url>
Objective
The objective of this study was to determine whether a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) improved functional performance in individuals with MS.
Design
This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. The end point was change between baseline (ie, preintervention) and follow-up evaluation following a regimen of four tablets per day at 60 mg per tablet for four weeks.
Setting
The study was conducted in academic and clinical based settings.
Patients/Participants
Twenty-two individuals with MS were randomly assigned to either the treatment or control condition. Groups did not differ with respect to age, IQ, and education.
Intervention
Half of the subjects received 240 mg per day of ginkgo special extract (EGb 761), and the other half received placebo.
Main Outcome Measure
The main outcome measures assessed depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]), fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]); symptom severity (Symptom Inventory [SI]) and functional performance (Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis [FAMS]).
Results
The ginkgo group had significantly more individuals showing improvement on four or more measures with improvements associated with significantly larger effect sizes on measures of fatigue, symptom severity, and functionality. The ginkgo group also exhibited less fatigue at follow-up compared with the placebo group.
Conclusions
This exploratory pilot study showed that no adverse events or side effects were reported and that ginkgo exerted modest beneficial effects on select functional measures (eg, fatigue) among some individuals with MS.
<shortened url>
it's all in the dosage
I hope the U.S. approves this, but it will be years before that might happen.
I've been reading a lot of positive things about it. It is made from the whole plant and is not synthetically made like Marinol and other drugs that are legal in the U.S. because they are synthetic. Here is a little of what I've found, from the norml website if I remember right. admittedly, everything I've read has come from pro-legalization biased sites.
But would Canada legalize it if it didn't help people?
A Canadian study found that cannabinoids, given to rats, didn't
kill brain cells but made NEW NEURONS.
and that they help relieve depression and anxiety.
"Non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) reduced
ethanol-induced cell death in the brain by up to 60 percent."
In cancer...
THC ... "decreased the proliferation of malignant cells [and] selectively
targeted malignant cells while ignoring healthy ones in a more profound
manner than the synthetic alternative."
" studies have also shown cannabinoids to halt the progression of lung
carcinoma, leukemia, skin carcinoma, colectoral cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer."
"Emerging evidence also indicates that cannabinoids may play a role in
slowing the progression of certain neurodegenerative diseases, such as
Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and Amyotrophic
Lateral Sclerosis (a.k.a. Lou Gehrig's Disease). Recent animal studies have shown cannabinoids to delay disease progression and inhibit
>neurodegeneration in mouse models of ALS, Parkinson's, and MS. As a result, the Journal of Neurological Sciences recently pronounced, "There is
accumulating evidence ... to support the hypothesis that the cannabinoid
system can limit the neurodegenerative processes that drive progressive
disease," and patient trials investigating whether the use of oral THC and
cannabis extracts may slow the progression of MS are now underway in the United Kingdom."
I've had many bad mental experiences with pot but I've had many good ones too... I've learned to keep it at a minimum. I'm not currently smoking and it's probably not related, but since I've stopped, spasicity, bladder disfunction and pain have increased, due to other reasons I'm sure.
I've been reading a lot of positive things about it. It is made from the whole plant and is not synthetically made like Marinol and other drugs that are legal in the U.S. because they are synthetic. Here is a little of what I've found, from the norml website if I remember right. admittedly, everything I've read has come from pro-legalization biased sites.
But would Canada legalize it if it didn't help people?
A Canadian study found that cannabinoids, given to rats, didn't
kill brain cells but made NEW NEURONS.
and that they help relieve depression and anxiety.
"Non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) reduced
ethanol-induced cell death in the brain by up to 60 percent."
In cancer...
THC ... "decreased the proliferation of malignant cells [and] selectively
targeted malignant cells while ignoring healthy ones in a more profound
manner than the synthetic alternative."
" studies have also shown cannabinoids to halt the progression of lung
carcinoma, leukemia, skin carcinoma, colectoral cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer."
"Emerging evidence also indicates that cannabinoids may play a role in
slowing the progression of certain neurodegenerative diseases, such as
Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and Amyotrophic
Lateral Sclerosis (a.k.a. Lou Gehrig's Disease). Recent animal studies have shown cannabinoids to delay disease progression and inhibit
>neurodegeneration in mouse models of ALS, Parkinson's, and MS. As a result, the Journal of Neurological Sciences recently pronounced, "There is
accumulating evidence ... to support the hypothesis that the cannabinoid
system can limit the neurodegenerative processes that drive progressive
disease," and patient trials investigating whether the use of oral THC and
cannabis extracts may slow the progression of MS are now underway in the United Kingdom."
I've had many bad mental experiences with pot but I've had many good ones too... I've learned to keep it at a minimum. I'm not currently smoking and it's probably not related, but since I've stopped, spasicity, bladder disfunction and pain have increased, due to other reasons I'm sure.
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CureOrBust
- Family Elder
- Posts: 3374
- Joined: Wed Jul 27, 2005 2:00 pm
- Location: Sydney, Australia
I saw a story on TV about Canada's "relaxed" attitude towards canabis in the general population. The thing that i found interesting however, was an interview with an MS sufferer, who took it.
He said that without it, his spacicity would make doing almost anything impossible. I was wondering if others who have tried it, have you noticed reduced spacicity? Without severe lethargy added by the drug?
He said that without it, his spacicity would make doing almost anything impossible. I was wondering if others who have tried it, have you noticed reduced spacicity? Without severe lethargy added by the drug?
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CureOrBust
- Family Elder
- Posts: 3374
- Joined: Wed Jul 27, 2005 2:00 pm
- Location: Sydney, Australia
Chinese herb? FTY720 (fingolimod)
FTY720 (fingolimod) from all my reaading appears to originate from a chinese herb or such. Does anyone know what it is called and if it can be purchased from a chinese remedy store? is it called "fingolimod"?
ginkgo biloba clinical trial results
This is a small trial, but it looks like it was well-done and the results seem quite positive to me.
The effect of ginkgo biloba on functional measures in multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial.
Explore (NY). 2006 Jan;2(1):19-24.
Johnson SK, Diamond BJ, Rausch S, Kaufman M, Shiflett SC, Graves L.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Charlotte, NC.
BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating neurological disease afflicting young and middle-aged adults, resulting in problems with coordination, strength, cognition, affect, and sensation.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine whether a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) improved functional performance in individuals with MS.
DESIGN: This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. The end point was change between baseline (ie, preintervention) and follow-up evaluation following a regimen of four tablets per day at 60 mg per tablet for four weeks.
SETTING: The study was conducted in academic and clinical-based settings.
PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-two individuals with MS were randomly assigned to either the treatment or control condition. Groups did not differ with respect to age, IQ, and education.
INTERVENTION: Half of the subjects received 240 mg per day of ginkgo special extract (EGb 761), and the other half received placebo.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The main outcome measures assessed depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]), fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]); symptom severity (Symptom Inventory [SI]) and functional performance (Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis [FAMS]).
RESULTS: The ginkgo group had significantly more individuals showing improvement on four or more measures with improvements associated with significantly larger effect sizes on measures of fatigue, symptom severity, and functionality. The ginkgo group also exhibited less fatigue at follow-up compared with the placebo group.
CONCLUSIONS: This exploratory pilot study showed that no adverse events or side effects were reported and that ginkgo exerted modest beneficial effects on select functional measures (eg, fatigue) among some individuals with MS.
<shortened url>
The effect of ginkgo biloba on functional measures in multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial.
Explore (NY). 2006 Jan;2(1):19-24.
Johnson SK, Diamond BJ, Rausch S, Kaufman M, Shiflett SC, Graves L.
University of North Carolina-Charlotte, Charlotte, NC.
BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating neurological disease afflicting young and middle-aged adults, resulting in problems with coordination, strength, cognition, affect, and sensation.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine whether a ginkgo extract (EGb 761) improved functional performance in individuals with MS.
DESIGN: This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group design. The end point was change between baseline (ie, preintervention) and follow-up evaluation following a regimen of four tablets per day at 60 mg per tablet for four weeks.
SETTING: The study was conducted in academic and clinical-based settings.
PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-two individuals with MS were randomly assigned to either the treatment or control condition. Groups did not differ with respect to age, IQ, and education.
INTERVENTION: Half of the subjects received 240 mg per day of ginkgo special extract (EGb 761), and the other half received placebo.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The main outcome measures assessed depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]), fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale [MFIS]); symptom severity (Symptom Inventory [SI]) and functional performance (Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis [FAMS]).
RESULTS: The ginkgo group had significantly more individuals showing improvement on four or more measures with improvements associated with significantly larger effect sizes on measures of fatigue, symptom severity, and functionality. The ginkgo group also exhibited less fatigue at follow-up compared with the placebo group.
CONCLUSIONS: This exploratory pilot study showed that no adverse events or side effects were reported and that ginkgo exerted modest beneficial effects on select functional measures (eg, fatigue) among some individuals with MS.
<shortened url>