Chapter 7

Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements

Aword of caution: whereas, almost anybody can benefit by taking a good multi vitamin, be very careful when choosing to take additional vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, or herbal supplements.

It might surprise you to know but there are a few irresponsible, celebrity doctors who use their books and their websites, to extol the multiple health benefits of every available form of supplementation known to mankind, from antioxidants and vitamins, to minerals and ancient herbal extracts. They make bold statements and promise you that these products will give you more energy, balance your hormones, improve your memory, speed up your metabolism, and help you lose weight, all while improving the quality of your sleep, your hair, and your skin! What’s not surprising is that many of these same doctors have convenient online drug stores where you can easily purchase these miracle products with a simple mouse click and your credit card.

Now, I’m not saying that taking a supplement is a bad idea. Many people do benefit from various types of supplementation. What I am saying is that these hot shot doctors never take the time to tell you about the harmful side effects which have the potential to make you very sick. Side effects which can cause everything from stomach upset, and diarrhea, to seizures.

Did you know that taking increased dosages of certain vitamins can cause deficiencies in others? Or that some supplements can interfere with the medications that you’re taking? There are even a few supplements which cannot be safely combined with other supplements.

In addition, supplements can change the way your body works. They can thin your blood, lower your blood pressure, and effect on the hormone levels in your body. You need to know this kind of information before taking something new. What if you’re already on a blood thinner, or medication to lower your blood pressure? What if you’re on hormone replacement therapy? How could these supplements effect your health? If that weren’t bad enough, many of them can worsen conditions, like kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes. Imagine how tragic that could be for someone who unknowingly speeds up the progression of an already treacherous disease by taking something they thought would help them get healthier?

It’s so important to do your homework. Be cautious of bold claims that don’t give you all the information. Make sure you thoroughly research any new vitamin, mineral, antioxidant, or herbal remedy that you’re thinking about trying. Investigate all the possible interactions and side effects. Remember to always ask your own doctor for their advice, before taking anything new - no matter how wonderful it sounds.

Some Supplements to Ask Your Doctor About

As I said earlier, many people do derive health benefits by taking supplements. For a bunch of different reasons such as: diet, physical condition, and medications, there are also lots of people who have vitamin and mineral deficiencies that they may not even be aware of. The health implications for these deficiencies can be serious. That’s why in “The Healthy Start” (stage one), I recommend getting tested.

I’d like to break it down, and discuss some of the various vitamins, minerals, and supplements which may be of benefit. I’ll include information on the possible side effects and interactions that I’m aware of, but again I urge you to check with your doctor and get their advice before taking anything new. Your doctor can verify if a specific supplement would be useful to you personally, and if it would be safe with your specific medical background taken into consideration. He or she can also recommend the dose which would best work for you.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-Lipoic Acid is a natural occurring antioxidant compound that is made in small amounts in the body. It is both water and fat soluble, which means it is used throughout the body. Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and to be useful in treating peripheral diabetic neuropathy (a condition which causes pain, burning, itching and numbness due to diabetic nerve damage). It has also been suggested that alpha-lipoic acid, may protect the brain from stroke and possibly dementia.

A 2011 study published in the American Journal of Medicine, concluded that giving obese subjects oral doses of alpha-lipoic acid was effective in achieving significant weight loss, and that it may potentially be useful as an adjunctive medication for obesity.

Side effects are generally rare and may include: insomnia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itchiness, and skin rash. It is unknown if alpha-lipoic acid is safe for women who are pregnant or nursing. Alpha-lipoic acid is not recommended for pediatric use.

Possible interactions:

» Medications for diabetes: Alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood sugar. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Your doctor will need to monitor you carefully and adjust your medications to prevent hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar levels).

» Chemotherapy medications

» Thyroid medications: Alpha-lipoic acid may lower levels of thyroid hormones. Again, check with your doctor before beginning to take any supplements.

» Vitamin B1 (thiamine): Alpha-lipoic acid can lower the level of vitamin B1 in the body. This can be dangerous for those who are already suffering from malnutrition, or in people who drink in excess.

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)

Ashwagandha is one of the most highly regarded herbs used in Ayurveda, an ancient form of holistic medicine which has been practiced in India for thousands of years. It’s considered to be a powerful adaptogen (a natural substance considered to help the body adapt to stress and to exert a normalizing effect upon bodily processes,) and it’s often used to help treat cancer, diabetes, stress, fatigue, and hypothyroidism. It is purported to help promote health, energy, strength, and memory, and has also been found useful in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Warnings: Pregnant and nursing women should not take Ashwagandha. The safety of this herb to infants is unknown. Ashwagandha may induce miscarriage in pregnant women.

Side effects: Large doses may cause stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. Ashwagandha can irritate the gastrointestinal tract – don’t take Ashwagandha if you have a stomach ulcer.

Possible interactions:

» Sedatives: Ashwagandha may increase sedative effects, avoid taking Ashwagandha with sedatives.

» Medications for diabetes: Ashwagandha may lower blood sugar. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Your doctor will need to monitor you carefully and adjust your medications to prevent hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar levels).

» Blood pressure: Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure levels. This could cause blood pressure to drop to dangerously low for people with low blood pressure or for people who are on blood pressure medications. Again, check with your doctor before taking any supplements.

» Auto-immune diseases: Ashwagandha may cause the immune system to become more active. Don’t use Ashwagandha if you have an autoimmune disease.

» Surgery: Ashwagandha slows the central nervous system and may interact with anesthesia and other medications normally associated with surgery. Stop taking Ashwagandha at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

» Thyroid medications: Ashwagandha may increase levels of thyroid hormones. If you are on any thyroid medications, use caution and check with your doctor before taking Ashwagandha.

Vitamin B Complex

Vitamin B complex is a vitamin supplement which contains 6 or more of the essential B vitamins. B vitamins are required for the maintenance and control of many biological functions such as: energy production, brain function, memory, concentration, and DNA synthesis. These vitamins also play a role in promoting mental health and cardiovascular health. They have been shown to protect against cancer, morning sickness, and the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome too.

I started taking vitamin B complex on the advice of my physician to help me with premenstrual syndrome which for me, included a premenstrual brain fog. The onset of my cycle always came with what I called, “a case of the premenstrual dumbs.” I’d find myself having difficulty focusing, and making mistakes at work. It was embarrassing and frustrating. It felt like the harder I tried not to make mistakes, the worse it would get. I can attest that the vitamins helped. I still make mistakes sometimes, but I haven’t had “a case of the premenstrual dumbs” in over six years.

Side effects: Side effects are uncommon when taking the proper dosage. Mild upset stomach or flushing may occur. Taking excessive amounts of Vitamin B complex can cause side effects. Signs of an overdose are: dizziness, frequent urination, a change in urine color (vitamin B2/Riboflavin frequently turns urine a bright yellow-orange color and is not a cause for alarm), black stools, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, redness of the skin, and itching.

Warnings: Though it is rare, some people can develop an allergic reaction to their vitamin B complex. If you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction such as: a rash, itching or swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing, get medical help immediately.

You should not take B vitamin supplements if you are pregnant, nursing, suffer from diabetes, ulcers, gout, or if you are prone to allergic reactions. The use combination of vitamin B12, folate and vitamin B6 may increase the risk of blood vessel narrowing, do not take this combination after receiving a coronary stent. Before taking any new supplements or medications, always check with your doctor for the correct dosage and to make sure there will be no adverse interactions with any other medications or supplements which you may already be taking.

Vitamin B12

Due to diet, medications, or medical conditions, many people are deficient in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is one of the 8 essential B vitamins. The human body need vitamin B12 to make red blood cells, nerves, and DNA. Vitamin B12 works with folic acid to help iron to work better in the body and to produce S-adenosylmethionine, (SAMe). SAMe is a chemical found in the body which is involved in both immune function and mood. Vitamin B12 supplementation may be useful in the prevention of breast cancer, and age related macular degeneration. It has traditionally been used as part of the treatment for: male infertility, chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, and hypothyroidism. Vitamin B12 is also believed to help improve: memory, concentration, and mood. Since B vitamins work symbiotically, you may want to take your B12 with other B vitamins. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in food sources such as: meat, poultry, fish, dairy and eggs.

People who are at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency are:

» Vegans and vegetarians

» People with digestive disorders

» People who have been taking acid blocking medications for an extended period

» Heavy drinkers

» People who’ve had weight loss surgery

» People with diabetes

» The elderly

» People with HIV

» People with eating disorders

» People with pernicious anemia – a condition where your body cannot absorb vitamin B12

» The symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency are:

» Fatigue

» Weakness

» Lightheadedness

» Jaundice

» Heart palpitations

» Shortness of breath

» Pale skin

» Weight loss

» Loss of appetite

» Difficulty maintaining balance

» Constipation, diarrhea, gas, and loss of appetite

» Nervousness, and confusion

» Memory loss, depression, and moodiness

» Dementia

» Soreness of the mouth or tongue

» Numbness, and tingling sensations in the fingers and toes

Side effects: Vitamin B12 is considered safe and non-toxic.

Possible interactions: Vitamin B 12 can interact with certain medications and certain medications may adversely affect vitamin B12 levels. Individuals taking medication should discuss their vitamin B12 status with their healthcare providers. Some of the medications which may interact adversely with vitamin B12 are antibiotics like, Chloramphenicol and Tetracycline.

Other medications may interfere with vitamin B12 absorption, such as the following:

» Anti-seizure medications like, Dilantin, Phenobarbital, and Mysoline

» Chemotherapy medications, particularly Methotrexate

» Proton pump inhibitors, like Omeprazole, and Lansoprazole

» H2 receptor antagonists, medications like Tagamet, Pepcid, and Zantac

» Diabetes medications like, Metformin

Warning: Do not take vitamin B12 if you have Leber’s disease. It can seriously harm the optic nerve and could lead to blindness. Due to the possible harmful side effects, do not attempt to treat megaloblastic anemia with vitamin B12, without the close supervision of your physician. The use combination of vitamin B12, folate and vitamin B6 may increase the risk of blood vessel narrowing, do not take this combination after receiving a coronary stent. Before taking any new supplements or medications, always check with your doctor for the correct dosage and to make sure there will be no adverse interactions with any other medications or supplements which you may already be taking.

Vitamin D & Calcium

More than one source tells us that vitamin D deficiencies are becoming a global concern. This is due to the fact that vitamin D is not abundantly available from natural food sources. While it is found in fatty fish and eggs, we get most of our vitamin D through a chemical reaction which occurs when our skin is exposed to the ultraviolet B rays of the sun.

Nowadays, due to lifestyles and occupations which keep us mainly indoors, and the necessary use of sunscreen to prevent skin cancer, our bodies are not exposed to as much sunlight as they were in the past.

Getting enough Vitamin D is important because, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to many illnesses including: cancer, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease, hypertension, infectious diseases, and depression. A vitamin D 25-Hydroxy, Serum level of 32ng/ml-100ng/ml is considered to fall within the normal range. However, many doctors feel that range is to wide and to avoid disease, optimal serum levels should fall between 50ng/ml and 80ng/ml.

The best vitamin D supplement to take is vitamin D3 because it’s identical to the form of vitamin D produced by the body. I personally take 4000 IU of vitamin D3 daily, on the advice of my physician.

Most people don’t experience any side effects to a vitamin D supplement. However, taking too much vitamin D can cause side effects which include:

» Excessive thirst

» Metallic taste in mouth

» Loss of appetite

» Weight loss

» Bone pain

» Tiredness

» Sore eyes

» Itchiness

» Vomiting

» Diarrhea

» Constipation

» Frequent urination

» Muscle pains

» Weakness

» Dry mouth

Ask your doctor for the correct dose for you.

People who have the following conditions should not take vitamin D unless under the direction of their physician:

» High blood calcium or phosphorous levels

» Kidney disease

» Atherosclerosis

» Sarcoidosis

» Histoplasmosis

» Hyperparathyroidism

» Lymphoma

» Tuberculosis

Possible interactions:

Vitamin D may interact adversely with several medications, including:

» Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

» Calcipotriene (Dovonex)

» Calcium channel blockers, such as: Nifedipine (Procardia), Verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isopin, verelan), Nicardipine (Cardene), Diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac) and Amlodipine (Norvasc)

» Digoxin (Lanoxin)

» Estrogen

» Isoniazid

» Water pills, such as: Thiazide, Chlorothiazide (Diuril), Hydrochlorothiazide, (HydroDiuril, Esidrix, Indapamide (Lozol), Metolazone (Zaroxolyn), and Chlorthialidone (Hygroton)

» Antacids

Calcium cannot be absorbed by the body without vitamin D. This in combination with dietary choices to avoid certain foods like dairy, may be the reason many Americans are also deficient in calcium. Calcium can be found in abundance from natural food sources such as: dairy products, almonds, salmon, broccoli, beans, greens, and sesame seeds. I see no need for calcium supplements, unless directed by your doctor. Getting enough vitamin D in combination with a balanced diet should give most people an adequate supply. Additionally, there has been some controversy over the efficacy and safety of taking calcium supplements.

Magnesium

Magnesium is necessary to the function of more than 300 enzyme systems in the body, and is vital to protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation.

Higher magnesium serum levels have been associated with better cardio vascular health, reduced risk of stroke, better blood glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes, and a reduced risk for osteoporosis. Magnesium supplements can be useful in treating depression, premenstrual syndrome, constipation, insomnia, and migraine headaches.

 

I began taking magnesium supplements to help with a recent development of premenstrual migraine headaches. My doctor advises me that these headaches are a perfectly normal occurrence at my age, due to the shifts in hormones prior to my cycle. Since starting on magnesium, I’ve noticed that my headaches are a lot less frequent, and when I do get a headache, they’re a little less severe. As an added bonus, I find I sleep more deeply when I take my magnesium before bed.

Magnesium supplements are available in as many as nine different compounds. The most common are magnesium hydroxide, magnesium citrate, and magnesium sulfate. Magnesium hydroxide, and magnesium citrate are generally used as laxatives. Magnesium sulfate is available as Epson salts. Epson salts are used in a bath, allowing the magnesium to be absorbed by the skin. Epson salt baths are a relaxing way to help sooth sore muscles. Taking an Epson salt bath before bed will also help you to get a better night’s sleep.

I choose to take my magnesium in the form of chelated magnesium glycinate. The body better absorbs this type of magnesium, it’s less likely to have a laxative effect, and it’s also known for having calming and relaxing properties.

Most people don’t get enough magnesium from their diets. Adults need between 320 – 420mgs of magnesium daily, depending on sex and age. Some good dietary sources of magnesium include: Almonds, cashews, dark chocolate, peanuts, black beans, spinach, avocado, plain yogurt, bananas, broccoli, beets, and kidney beans. Other good sources include: milk, halibut, and chicken breast. Almonds come in the highest with 80mgs per one ounce serving, while chicken breast comes in at only 22mg per three ounces. Since only 30-40% of dietary magnesium is absorbed by the body, you would have to eat quite a bit of these kinds of foods to get an enough magnesium every day. Additionally, medical conditions and other factors can lead to lower levels of magnesium and magnesium deficiencies including:

» Gastro intestinal diseases and digestive disorders

» Diabetes

» Pancreatitis

» Hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone levels)

» Kidney disease

» Heavy menstrual periods

» Excessive sweating

» Drinking too much caffeine or alcohol

» Taking diuretics

» Taking steroids

» Prolonged stress

» Taking certain medications like; antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs

» Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors such as Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Esomeprazole (Prilosec, Prevacid & Nexium)

The symptoms of a magnesium deficiency include:

» Agitation and anxiety

» Restless leg syndrome

» Insomnia

» Nausea and vomiting

» Abnormal heart rhythms

» Low blood pressure

» Confusion

» Muscle spasm and weakness

» Seizures

» Head aches

Side effects: Common side effects for magnesium include, stomach upset, cramps, and diarrhea.

Warnings: People with heart or kidney disease should not take magnesium except as directed by their physician. Magnesium competes with calcium for absorption and can cause a calcium deficiency in people whose calcium levels are already low. Always check with your doctor for correct dosing and to see if taking magnesium makes sense for you. Overdosing on oral magnesium supplements can be very dangerous and can cause many serious health problems such as:

» Nausea

» Vomiting

» Very low blood pressure

» Confusion

» Muscle weakness

» Fatigue

» Slowed heart rate

» Respiratory paralysis

» Mineral deficiencies

» Cardiac arrhythmias

» Cardia arrest

» Coma

» Death

Possible interactions: Magnesium supplements may interact badly with other medications, such as:

» Aminoglycosides (a type of antibiotic), taking this medication while taking magnesium can cause neuromuscular weakness and paralysis

» Antibiotics – Nitrofurantoin and Quinolone antibiotics, magnesium should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after these types of antibiotics to avoid reducing the absorption of the medication. Quinolone antibiotics include: Ciprofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, Tetracycline, Doxycycline, and Minocycline.

» Blood pressure medications and calcium channel blockers in pregnant women: magnesium increase the risks of negative side effects from these medications in pregnant women.

» Diabetes medications: magnesium may increase the absorption of these medications. If you take these medications, your doctor may need to adjust your dose.

» Fluoroquinones: taking this medication while taking magnesium may decrease absorption and effectiveness. Fluoroquinones should be taken at least 4 hours before taking any products which contain magnesium.

» Hormone replacement therapy

» Labetol: taking this medication while taking magnesium can abnormally slow your heart beat and reduce cardiac output.

» Levomethadyl: taking this medication while taking magnesium may cause a heart condition.

» Levothyroxine: magnesium may reduce the effectiveness of this medication.

» Tiludronate and alendronate: magnesium should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after these types of osteoporosis medications to avoid reducing absorption of the medication.

Probiotics

The internationally endorsed definition of probiotics is: live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Traditionally probiotics are used to treat or prevent an imbalance of the microflora which inhabit the intestines. New approaches have shown the potential for probiotics to be used as part of the treatment for a range of chronic diseases.

In a 2016 study, which was published in the journal BioMed Research International, Researchers in Italy studied 150 men to discern the efficacy of using probiotics in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). In this study, a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial, conducted over 2 years, scientists found that probiotics were effective in improving symptoms of IBS-C such as pain, flatulence, and bloating. Additionally, the decrease in constipation was twofold greater for participants who had been given probiotics in comparison to those who had been in the placebo group, and patients in the probiotic group reported an increased quality of life.

An imbalance in the intestinal microbiome leads to chronic intestinal inflammation which is characterized by a loss of integrity of the intestinal protective lining (the epithelial barrier), and an increase of inflammatory cytokines. Despite their differences, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel disease, are each characterized by the loss of epithelial barrier and increased production of inflammatory cytokines.

As a species, Lactobacillus are active against harmful bacteria, yeast, fungi, certain parasites, and viruses. However, in a 2016 Brazilian study, also published in the journal BioMed Research International, scientists were interested in the anti-inflammatory potential of a strain of Lactobacillus called Lactobacillus plantarum. In previous studies, Lactobacillus plantarum had been shown to decrease Helicobacter pylori activity, and to improve the symptoms of IBS. (Helicobacter pylori are a bacterium which are often associated with stomach infections and ulcers.) This time, researchers found that Lactobacillus plantarum, prevented pathogens from sticking to the epithelial barrier and significantly decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. They concluded that Lactobacillus plantarum, had a strong anti-inflammatory effect on the protective intestinal barrier, and was a strong candidate to assist in therapy for inflammatory diseases.

In 2014, a three month, randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study, was published in the European Journal of Endocrinology. Researchers from the Diabetes and Metabolism, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, studied the effects of Lactobacillus helveticus, on the glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors of 41 men with type 2 diabetes. They divided the group of men randomly by a computerized system. One group received a yogurt fermented with 300ml of Lactobacillus helveticus, which they called Cardio4 yogurt. The other group received an identically formulated placebo yogurt which was fermented with an acidifier known as glucono-lactone, instead of the probiotic. The results were astounding. After 12 weeks of daily intake of the yogurt fermented with Lactobacillus helveticus, participants had a reduced average heart rate of 2 beats per minute, over 24 hours and in daytime. This is significant because, elevated heart rate is considered an important risk factor for cardio vascular disease. Additionally, Cardio4 yogurt reduced fasting plasma glucose levels, and scientists saw a trend towards improvement in insulin resistance in the probiotic group. Another bacteria called Bifidobacterium, is also known to reduce inflammation and improve glucose tolerance.

As research develops probiotic use is becoming more main stream. A study by the CDC, which was published in the American Journal of Infection Control, found that more and more patients are receiving probiotics as part of their inpatient hospital care. In fact, almost 3 times as many hospital patients were prescribed probiotics in 2012 as compared to patients in 2007.

Since the diversity and symbiosis of our microbiome is so intrinsically related to how are bodies are functioning, effecting everything from our immune systems, to our weight, mood, and sleep, maintaining it is an important aspect of our well-being. We can protect our microbiome by reducing stress, exercising, eating a healthy diet, and by taking a high-quality probiotic. Look for a probiotic which contains large amounts of many different species.

Side effects: Probiotics are considered be safe for healthy people. Most people do not experience any side effects. Rarely people may experience short term mild gas or bloating. If you are immune-compromised or have a serious illness, avoid taking probiotics unless your doctor has okayed their use. Probiotics should be used cautiously by pregnant women, infants, and young children. Never give probiotics to a premature infant.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen herb which grows at high altitudes in Siberia, the republic of Georgia, and Scandinavia. Because it grows in such a brutal climate, Rhodiola rosea is an amazing source of antioxidants. This astounding little yellow flower’s roots, are attributed to conferring many health benefits. The list is amazingly long, and you might think a little too good to be true but, unlike many other such herbs, Rhodiola rosea has been studied extensively in the U.S. and abroad. Its many positive attributes have been well documented and are backed by scientific evidence. Rhodiola rosea has been proven to successfully: improve mood, increase stamina and athletic performance, improve weight loss and metabolism, improve brain function and memory, strengthen the immune system, safely relieve menopausal symptoms, and improve the bodies reaction to physical and mental stressors. The Soviet Union was aware of these benefits for years before we’d ever even heard of Rhodiola in America. They used it during the cold war to give their astronauts, athletes, soldiers, and scientists, a leading edge.

If you would like to try Rhodiola rosea, make sure you purchase from a reputable source. Many manufactures sell inferior products, which will not give you the desired effect. Look for a pure root extract which contains a minimum of 3% rosavins and 0.8% - 1.0% salidrosides. The product must only contain Rhodiola rosea and not a mix of Rhodiola species. Rhodiola rosea should be taken a half hour before eating for the best absorption, and should not be taken in the late afternoon as it may interfere with your sleep if taken to late in the day. It is usually best to take between 100 and 200 milligrams per day. Never take more than 400 milligrams a day without medical supervision.

Side effects:

» Rhodiola rosea in many ways acts as a stimulant. If you feel jittery or agitated after taking it you should cut back on the dosage you are taking, and build up to a higher dose gradually if you feel you need more. You can even open a capsule and only take ¼ or ½ of the regular dose.

» Some people experience intense dreams when they begin taking Rhodiola rosea, they should subside in about 2 weeks.

» Some people may experience nausea.

Warnings: Get your doctors approval before starting any new herbal products or supplements. Get your doctors approval before starting Rhodiola rosea if you suffer from manic episodes or bipolar disorder. People with these disorders would need close medical supervision while taking Rhodiola because of its stimulant like qualities. Don’t take Rhodiola rosea if you are pregnant or breast feeding, since it is not known if it is safe for pregnant or breast-feeding women.

Interactions: Rhodiola rosea has not been shown to interact adversely with any prescription medications or other herbal products. Be aware that Rhodiola rosea may increase the stimulant action of other stimulants, or stimulant medications.

Tulsi/Holy Basil

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) or Holy Basil is an herb from the basil family, and has been used in Ayurvedic Medicine for thousands of years. Like Ashwagandha, it’s considered an adaptogen which helps the body adapt to stress and increases the body’s resistance to disease. Tulsi has been used to treat colds, coughs, the flu, respiratory illness, fevers, headaches, stomach disorders, and heart disease. Its oils contain strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Tulsi may be effective in helping people with type 2 diabetes in controlling their blood sugar.

 

Tulsi can be grown from seeds. Its leaves can be used similarly to other fresh herbs for use in recipes when cooking, or it can be seeped into a tea. The leaves can even be crushed into a paste which is used to treat skin infections, and as a fungicide. In India, many families grow Tulsi in their homes. In Hindu mythology, the plant is the incarnation of the goddess Tulsi and confers divine protection. Tulsi is also available as packaged tea, in powdered form, and as capsules and tablets.

Since fresh Tulsi is not readily available in my area, I buy Tulsi tea. The tea comes in a variety of flavors, it’s caffeine free, and it can be served hot or iced. I’ve personally found Tulsi tea to be very soothing. I enjoy a cup anytime I want to relax and unwind.

Warning: Studies have found that large doses of Tulsi/Holy Basil may affect fertility negatively.

Interactions: There aren’t many known interactions between this supplement and other medications. However, there are some concerns that Holy Basil may interact with Pentobarbital causing excessive drossiness, and with anti-coagulant medications, such as Aspirin and Warfarin, causing increased chances of bruising and bleeding.

If you are taking any medications, check with your doctor before taking Tulsi/Holy Basil.