Ginger Root

Not just great in stir-fries, ginger is one herb that can do more than add flavor and spice to just about any dish, it also exhibits antioxidant effects and the ability to lessen the formation of inflammation in the body. Ginger contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds called "gingerols" that work their magic on many types of inflammation in the body. A study in the November 2003 issue of Life Sciences indicates that ginger offers free radical protection through one of its many active constituents, called 6-gingerol. 6-gingerol has been shown to significantly inhibit the production of nitric oxide, a highly reactive nitrogen molecule that quickly forms a very damaging fee radical called "peroxynitrite".

Another study in the November 2003 issue of Radiation Research found that mice given ginger for five days prior to being exposed to radiation, not only avoided an increase in free radical damage to fats in the body, but also experienced a far smaller depletion of glutathione, one of the body's most important antioxidants. Since the brain contains high levels of fats and is negatively impacted by radiation exposure and free radicals, ginger shows promise in protecting the brain.

According to Dr. Krishna C. Sricastava, ginger is superior to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in alleviating inflammation. This is important since physicians sometimes recommend anti-inflammatory drugs to treat brain disease linked to inflammation. Unlike NSAIDs that work on only one level of inflammation (blocking the substances that cause inflammation), ginger works on at least two mechanisms:

• Ginger blocks the formation of prostaglandins and leukotriences, chemicals that are linked to the development of inflammation in the body; and
• Ginger also has antioxidant properties that actually break down inflammation and acidity in the body.

Ginger, eaten or used as a supplement on a regular basis, can have a protective effect by decreasing inflammation that occurs in the brain. One to ten grams per day of ginger root is an anti-inflammatory daily use.

"The Brain Wash" by Michelle Schoffro Cook

Aloe has many benefits

Over the years, Aloe has been associated with a number of benefits and the ability to handle many of your day to day troubles.

Intestinal Problems

Aloe can be effective for treating inflammatory bowel disease. ( Journal of Alternative Medicine)

Other studies have shown that aloe helps to detoxify the bowel, neutralize stomach acidity, and relieve constipation and gastric ulcers.

Reduces Blood Sugar in Diabetes

Aloe reduced the blood sugar levels in diabetics (Hormone Research)

Reduces Arthritic Swelling

Aloe can help prevent arthritis and reduce the inflammation in joints already affected by arthritis. (Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association)

Aloe can also inhibit the autoimmune reaction associated with certain forms of arthritis, in which the body attacks its own tissues.

Helps Heal Wounds

An animal-based study found that both oral and topical aloe preparations would speed healing. The size of wounds decreased 62% in the animals taking oral aloe compared to a 51% decrease in wound size. (Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association)

Supports Surgical Recovery

Aloe decreases surgical recovery time. "Any wound we treat, whether it's a suturing a cut or removing a skin cancer, heals better with aloe vera on it." (James Fulton, M. D. , Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology)

Screens Out Radiation

Aloe protects against skin damage from X-rays. Aloe was an effective antioxidant, mopping up the free radical caused by radiation and it protected two of the body's healing agents. (researchers at Hoshi University, Japan, published in the journal Yakugaku Zasshi)

Product

One of the most effective products on the market is Aloe ACE-MAX. One capsule of this product contains the equivalent of 32 ounces of aloe juice.