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A Guide to Herbal Supplementation
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There is no doubt that the herbal supplement industry is enjoying a popularity never seen before in
its history. Scientific validations of many herbs, easy access, more choice and increased herbal
health awareness is leading more consumers to choose herbal supplements as their first choice
for self healthcare. But are herbal supplements really better than their synthetic counterparts?
The Science Behind Herbal Supplements
Centuries before man began producing synthetic medicines, he had discovered the use of
medicinal plants. Through the use of herbal plants he developed a system of natural treatment
which effectively worked to relieve many of his ailments. Scientists, too, are now re-affirming the
medicinal value of these plants through careful research and clinical trials.Certain plants impart
health value because they contain phytochemicals, often referred to as phytonutrients.
Phytochemicals are chemical compounds in plants that possess medicinal properties. They can be
used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, for supporting the immune
system and enhancing cellular repair functions. They are also being studied for their role in
treating certain diseases. Examples of phytochemicals:
Aloin, glucommannans, salicylic acid in Aloe Vera have antiseptic properties and can be used to
effectively support digestive health.
Polyphenols (a type of phytochemical) in Green tea are powerful antioxidants. Scientific research
strongly suggests these antioxidants play a role in skin health, especially in protecting the skin
against UVA and UVB. A number of other health benefits are attributed to Green tea polyphenols.
Resveratrol, a phytosterol (plant oil) found in red grapes, is being studied for its role in nutritionally
helping the body ability to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Pure cocoa contains high levels of epicatechins and are important for supporting heart health and
good blood circulation. Pure cocoa is known to have the highest antioxidant value.
St. John's wort contains flavonoids and phenolic acids and is traditionally used for depression.
Glycosides and terpenoids found in Gingko biloba nutritionally help to improve cognitive memory,
and are used in certain nootropics.
There is more scientific evidence available now to corroborate the medicinal value of herbs than
ever before which is why herbal supplements are gaining consumer confidence in terms of safety
and effectiveness.
Why Herbal Supplements are Better than Synthetic Supplements

2. Herbal supplements are more bio-available
The major problem with many of the synthetic nutritional supplements is their bioavailability. Only
about 30-50% of nutrients in synthetic supplements can actually be absorbed by the body. The
rest becomes waste. In contrast, herbal supplements are much more bio-available to the body.
Herbs tend to have less side effects than their synthetic counterparts
The added benefit of herbs is that they tend to have fewer side effects that are often accompanied
with the use of synthetic drugs or supplements.
Statistics show that on an average, there are 106,000 deaths annually due to prescription drugs1,
while only 12 by the use of herbal supplements, mostly associated with misuse of herbals
supplements or unusual circumstances.
A good herbal supplement contains no chemicals
It is said that an average American could be consuming approximate 10 lbs. of food chemicals a
year from various sources!
One source, albeit a small source, is synthetic supplements. Many of the synthetic supplements
use additives, food allergens, artificial coloring, binding agents, coating agents and flavoring,
which are chemicals and could cause allergies. Many of them use shellac as a coating agent. The
use of shellac is unhealthy as it can leave a residue in the GI tract.
In contrast, a good herbal supplement contains no chemicals.
Many herbal supplements contain natural whole food sources of nutrition.
Our bodies are made to get their nutrients from natural sources. Nutrients, in their natural form in
food, are found with other nutrients and all of them work in synergy to impart maximum nutrition. In
contrast, synthetic supplements provide nutrients in isolation. Your body may not be able
recognize or fully utilize isolated nutrients.. For example, a synthetic supplement may only contain
beta-carotone (an antioxidant) which is just one caretenoid in a group of caretenoids. In contrast,
carrot powder contains the whole group of caretenoids, all of which are necessary to impart health
benefits to the body. Therefore, in most cases herbal supplements are the better choice when it
comes to getting the most nutrition from your supplements.
Herbal supplements on par with certain pharmaceutical drugs
With more evidence from scientific research supporting their medicinal properties, many of the
herbs available in our market today are considered to be on par with their synthetic counterparts in
terms of their effectiveness. Aspirin is actually derived from the bark of the willow tree. The drug
Taxol used in cancer treatment is derived from the Pacific yew tree. Salicin from the white willow is
used as anti-inflammatory.
Resveratrol, in particular, is being studied for its potential in replacing the drug statin in treating
patients with high cholesterol levels.
Even Bayers, a major pharmaceutical company has introduced a One-A-Day Cholesterol Plus

3. containing phytosterols to help maintain cardiovascular health.
Herbal supplements are becoming the preferred choice for many people and may no longer be
known as "alternate" treatment! Herbal supplements are used today by people who are concerned
about their health and would like to enhance their chances to maintain healthy, active lifestyles for
longer years to come. Always consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.
References:
Death by Medicine, Drs. Gary Null, Carolyn Dean, Martin Feldman, Debora Rasio and Dorothy
Smith, 2003.
Food Preservatives: Are They Safe?, Leslie Gravlin, Elizabeth Kluesner, Cassy Dominick, Dr.
Wohlers
New Vitality is a health supplements company. It develops supplement products which are
carefully formulated under the guidance of an elite panel comprised of renowned doctors,
nutritionists, chemists and researchers. Whether you want a nutritional supplement, pet health
supplement, a personal care product or a health care product, New Vitality is a one-stop shop for
all needs.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Agrawal
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A Guide to Herbal Supplementation
http://www.maxevida.com/?user=jantrev
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