Smoothie Booster
Background:
I was asked by some gym trainers would I have anything to help people that have been on artificial steroids. People that have been on anabolic steroids, androgynous and or testosterone especially for a long time have trouble getting their own testosterone back to normal. In some cases the body has great difficulty getting instructions from the pituitary gland to the testicles to start manufacturing natural testosterone from the testicles at all. Androgen from the Adrenal Gland can also be affected leaving a person very drained and permanently fatigued.
Smoothie Booster was born:
Athletes Advantage Smoothie Booster is a combination of herbs designed to boost your own testosterone hormone level to the maximum your body allows. This is natural herbs that negate the need to use artificial anabolic, androgynous and testosterone steroids. Other herbs combined to promote and stable hormones and build the system.
Ingredients and their benefit:
Tongkat Ali
This libido boosting herb has been referred to as many things:• “The tree that cures a hundred diseases.”
• “Natures Viagra”
• “Asian Viagra”
Male Sexual Health
Tongkat Ali is a powerful herb that has been traditionally used for centuries as a remedy for age-related male disorders. Testosterone and other male hormones are known to decrease with age which can result in a condition known as "andropause" (also known as the male menopause). Symptoms can include lack of energy, a decrease in libido, increased body fat and mental lethargy.
Many studies show that this root contains compounds that stimulate libido, promote sperm motility and semen quality and support muscle growth — all effects that are attributed to an increase in testosterone. The hormonal support provided by Tongkat Ali can also increase male fertility by promoting normal sperm quality. This effect is backed up by a 2012 study of 76 men, only 35 percent of whom had normal testosterone levels. After one month of supplementation with Tongkat Ali, the number of men with normal testosterone levels had risen significantly to 90 percent.
A pleasant side effect of this increase in testosterone is a boost in sex drive, with it long being used in South East Asia as an aphrodisiac.
Female Sexual Health
Tongkat Ali's main benefits for women come from its ability to balance hormones, with common symptoms of hormone imbalance including; low sex drive, brain fog, fatigue and slow metabolism. With hormones playing a significant role in metabolism, Tongkat Ali's stabilising effect can help to maintain healthy metabolism, also preventing age-related weight gain.
When hormones are out of kilter this can play havoc with many bodily systems, especially in women — low energy levels being a common complaint along with fatigue. Tongkat Ali is a natural energy booster, with Asian communities using this herb for centuries for just this effect, alongside it being used to ramp up sex drive and boost testosterone levels (necessary for both male and female sexual health). It is also said to be helpful in increasing the sensitivity of women's erogenous zones, further adding to its libido boosting qualities.
Another side-effect of low hormone levels (especially testosterone), is an increased risk of osteoporosis — common in women over a certain age. As long as levels of magnesium, calcium and vitamin D are normal, Tongkat Ali's ability to encourage serum levels of testosterone make this herb extremely useful for improving and maintaining superior bone health.
Athletic Performance
A natural side effect of the increase in testosterone provided by Tongkat Ali is that it can aid in the loss of body fat whilst boosting the ability to gain lean body mass. This will have an even greater effect if exercise is taken regularly.
A promising Malaysian study published in 2002 demonstrated that Tongkat Ali had the potential to improve lean body mass. In this double blind study, 7 men were given 100 mgs of Tongkat Ali extract each day with the other 7 participants being given a placebo for a 5 week period. The men in the Tongkat Ali group experienced a 5% increase in their lean body mass and a significant reduction in body fat.
With all that said, the benefits list was going to be semi-long!
• Energy Booster
• Boost Sexual Desire
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Increase Sexual Desire
• Possible Cancer Fighting Agent
• Stamina
• Increases Sensations
• Ups Performance
• Gets Blood Flow Moving
• Increases Testosterone
Six Benefits of Tongkat Ali for Women's Health
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
Hormone imbalance is a common health for many women today. Exposure to toxins that exhibit oestrogen-like effects — and there are plenty — can throw a woman’s hormone production off kilter. Common symptoms include fatigue, slowed metabolism, low libido, and brain fog. Herbalists and believers in traditional medicines have long used Tongkat ali, commonly known as Long-jack, to combat these issues and modern research has confirmed its status as a health-supporting herb with hormone balancing benefits. [1] [2]
Benefits of Tongkat Ali
Used for centuries to support female health, Tongkat ali still remains foreign to most people. Fortunately, a great deal of research is shedding new light onto the herb’s benefits, specifically for women. Here are just a few benefits of Tongkat ali for women’s health:
1. Helps Fight Unwanted Weight Gain
Hormones dictate metabolism and an imbalance almost always leads to unwanted weight gain. Many of us may have come to accept that a certain level of weight gain and fatigue is a normal part of ageing; however, this doesn’t have to be the case. Often, the reason we are gaining weight is simply because we are being exposed to environmental toxins that are messing with our natural hormonal equilibrium. Tongkat ali may aid in reducing weight gain by stabilising hormones, and this applies to both males and females.
2. Boosts Energy
When the body isn’t producing adequate hormones, or when its production has gone haywire, it can often result in low energy levels. Because Tongkat is an excellent tool for balancing hormones, it has the additional affect of balancing energy and metabolism. The increased energy may also be helpful for supporting endurance during exercise, linking Tongkat back to weight loss and maintenance.
3. Natural Libido Support
No matter your gender, a testosterone boost can be a helpful way for increasing sexual flame and desire. Folklore says that Tongkat ali is helpful for increasing the sensitivity of a woman’s erogenous zones, further increasing its libido-boosting qualities. While research has shown that the herb boosts libido in male rats, [3] researchers believe these effects can also be replicated in females.
4. Promotes Skeletal Health
Low testosterone levels increases one’s chances of developing osteoporosis, a debilitating disease characterised by weak, fragile bones. While calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium all play a role in bone health, maintaining hormonal balance is key for regulating the health of the entire body. Since Tongkat encourages serum concentration of testosterone, it is believed that the herb may be a useful adjunct toward improving and maintaining superior bone health. [4]
5. Mood Support
Research has shown that Tongkat ali reduces cortisol, our main stress hormone. Cortisol is produced in response to stress and is also one of the main contributors to stress-related weight gain. In clinical trials, Tongkat reduces tension, anger, and confusion. The herb may also reduce the effects of everyday stress associated with diet, sleep loss, and even exercise. [5] Improved memory is also associated with Tongkat ali supplementation.
6. Encourages Normal Blood Sugar
Maintaining proper blood sugar levels through diet and exercise is one of the best defences against type II diabetes. Research has confirmed that Tongkat ali may contribute to this effort. [6] Reducing refined carbohydrates in the diet, increasing exercise, getting quality sleep, and sunlight exposure are also extremely helpful ways to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.
Using Tongkat Ali
Tongkat ali is typically taken in extract form.
References:
1. Shuid AN1, El-arabi E, Effendy NM, Razak HS, Muhammad N, Mohamed N, Soelaiman IN. Eurycoma longifolia upregulates osteoprotegerin gene expression in androgen- deficient osteoporosis rat model. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2012 Sep 12;12:152. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-12-152.
2. Henkel RR1, Wang R, Bassett SH, Chen T, Liu N, Zhu Y, Tambi MI. Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors–a pilot study. Phytother Res. 2014 Apr;28(4):544-50. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5017. Epub 2013 Jun 11.
3. Ang HH, Sim MK. Eurycoma longifolia Jack enhances libido in sexually experienced male rats. Experimental Animals. 1997 October;46(4):287-90.
4. Tambi MI, Imran MK, Henkel RR. Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism. Andrologia. 2012 May;44 Suppl 1:226-30. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01168.x.
5. Talbott SM1, Talbott JA, George A, Pugh M. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013 May 26;10(1):28. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-10-28.
6. Bhat R1, Karim AA. Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia Jack): a review on its ethnobotany and pharmacological importance. Fitoterapia. 2010 Oct;81(7):669-79. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2010.04.006.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Global Healing Center does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Global Healing Center are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Tongkat Ali Side Effects
Tongkat is easily misused. Proper dosage is key to reaping the benefits, and leaving the side affects behind. If you notice any of the following side effects, it’s time to adjust your dosage.
1. Increased Body Temperature
2. Restlessness
3. Agressive Behaviour
4. Irritable
What Can you do the prevent this? Start small, more is not necessarily better. Make sure you cycle on and off this herb. Such as, 2 days on 1 day off. Otherwise recommended with smoothie Booster is 5 days on two days off if no side effects are occurring.
Best to skip all coffees and teas if you can.
Stinging Nettle
• Nettle stimulates the lymph system to boost immunity
• Nettle relieves arthritis symptoms
• Nettle promotes a release from uric acid from joints
• Helps to support the adrenals
• It helps with diabetes mellitus
• Strengthens the foetus in pregnant women
• Promotes milk production in lactating women
• Relieves menopausal symptoms
• Helps with menstrual cramps and bloating
• Helps break down kidney stones
• Reduces hypertension
• Helps with respiratory tract disease
• Supports the kidneys
• Helps asthma sufferers
• Stops bleeding
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces incident of prostate cancer
• Minimises skin problems
• Eliminates allergic rhinitis
• Lessens nausea
• Cures the common cold
• Helps with osteoarthritis
• Alleviates diarrhoea
• Helps with gastrointestinal disease, IBS, and constipation
• Reduces gingivitis and prevents plaque when used as a mouth wash.
• Has been shown to be helpful to in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
• Relieves neurological disorders like MS, ALS and sciatica
• Destroys intestinal worms or parasites
• Supports the endocrine health by helping the thyroid, spleen and pancreas
Benefits of Stinging Nettle
Despite its reputation for pain, stinging nettle is used to help a number of ailments. Studies have shown stinging nettle has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-ulcer, astringent and analgesic capabilities. (3)
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the plant has been used most commonly throughout history as a diuretic and for treating painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anaemia. Today, it’s used primarily to treat urinary issues, as well as allergies and joint pain.
The most proven health benefits of using stinging nettle help with the following:
1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Urinary Issues
BPH symptoms are caused by an enlarged prostate gland pressing on the urethra. BPH sufferers experience varying levels of increased urges to urinate, incomplete emptying of the bladder, painful urination, post urination dripping and reduced urinary flow.
Doctors are still not entirely sure why stinging nettle alleviates some of these symptoms, but many clinical studies infer that it contains chemicals that affect the hormones that cause BPH. When taken, it also directly affects prostate cells. Stinging nettle root extract has also been shown to slow or stop the spread of prostate cancer cells. (4) It’s usually used in combination with saw palmetto and other herbs. The root of the plant is primarily used in connection with urinary issues.
Stinging nettle is used as a successful general diuretic and can help urine flow as well. It’s also used in home remedies for bladder infections.
2. Osteoarthritis and Joint Pain
Arthritis sufferers often experience joint pain, typically in the hands, knees, hips and spine. Nettle works alongside non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to allow patients to decrease their NSAID use. Because prolonged use of NSAIDs can cause a number of serious side effects, this is an ideal pairing.
Studies also show that applying nettle leaf topically at the site of pain decreases joint pain and can treat arthritis. Nettle can also provide relief when taken orally. Another study published in the Journal of Rheumatology shows stinging nettle’s anti-inflammatory power against other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. (5)
3. Hay Fever
Histamine production in the body creates the adverse reactions related to allergies. Allergies cause uncomfortable congestion, sneezing, itching and more.Stinging nettle’s anti-inflammatory qualities affect a number of key receptors and enzymes in allergic reactions, preventing hay fever symptoms if taken when they first appear. (6) The leaves of the plant contain histamine, which may seem counterproductive in allergy treatment, but there is history of using histamines to treat severe allergic reactions. (7)
There is also evidence that in severe reactions, low plasma histamine levels (as opposed to high levels) are present. Another global study from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine found that stinging nettle use for allergy relief was rated higher than placebos in a 98-person, randomised, double-blind study. (8)
4. Bleeding
Certain products containing stinging nettle have shown, when applied to the skin, can reduce bleeding during surgery. The product, called Ankaferd blood stopper, is made up of alpinia, licorice, thyme, common grape vine and stinging nettle, and has also shown evidence of reducing bleeding after dental surgery. (9)
5. Eczema
Eczema is a dry, itchy rash that can last on sufferers for a very long time. Because of stinging nettle’s antihistamine and anti-inflammatory qualities, it can be a natural treatment for eczema, as the Penn State University College of Medicine study referenced above notes. Sufferers can use a combination of nettle taken orally to tackle the eczema internally, as well as a cream to provide relief from the rash’s itch and redness.
More research is needed, but stinging nettle is also said to:
• Promote lactation
• Stimulate hair growth
• Help control blood sugar in patients with diabetes
• Reduce bleeding connected to gingivitis
• Treat disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract
• Provide relief from water retention
• Prevent or treat diarrhoea
• Decrease menstrual flow
• Provide asthma relief
• Heal wounds
• Treat haemorrhoids
• Stimulate contractions in pregnant women
• Treat insect bites
• Treat tendonitis
• Treat anaemia
History & Interesting Facts About Stinging Nettle
Folklore features stinging nettles often across many cultures and beliefs. Much of the lore involves suffering from a sting in silence or without itching or scratching the burning area.
In ancient Greece, nettles were used as a diuretic and a laxative by physicians Galen and Dioscorides. In Medieval Europe, stinging nettle was used to treat and naturally reduce joint pain and also as a diuretic. People used to believe pulling stinging nettle by the roots and shouting an ill person’s name would eliminate a fever as well.
Stinging nettle has been used to make textiles like cloth and paper since Neolithic times. With fibers similar to hemp and flax, it’s a great alternative, sustainable fiber. Because the fiber is hollow, it provides natural insulation. The German army used nettle for their uniforms in World War I and used its leaves to dye uniforms in World War II.
Stinging nettles also were used to treat certain diseases by urtication, which is the process of beating the skin with nettles to stimulate blood circulation.
Nettle Roots and Testosterone
There are several active compounds in nettles, such as; lectins, histamine, sterols, glycosides, and polysaccharide lignans.
The stinging nettle plant has been extensively studied in isolated cell cultures (in-vitro) and in animals.
Limited studies also exist in humans, but not enough to make any definitive conclusions. Most of the trials revolve around the topic of prostatic health.
It’s good to note that most of the research is done with the root parts of the plant, since many supplement companies try to be sneaky and use the much cheaper leaves in their formulations.
It has been noted in test-tubes that the polysaccharide lignans extracted from nettle roots have the ability to bind SHBG molecules, rendering them inactive by taking the place that would normally be populated by hormones.
Since nettle root may block 5-a reductase at higher dosages, it may also lower the conversion rate of testosterone to DHT. On the other hand, since nettle root extract also lowers the binding affinity of SHBG towards androgens, it also makes the DHT already in circulation more bio-available. In-vitro research by Gansser et al
. noted that isolated lignans were able to displace DHT from SHBG by up to a staggering 60-94%.
Research on prostate enlargement has shown that stinging nettle root extract greatly reduces the rate of complications associated with prostate issues, such as reduced urinary flow and the number of times older men have to wake up to take a leak at night. In both animals and humans, slight reductions in prostate gland size have been noted
.
Although many are quick to rule the prostate benefits of nettle root extract to reduced DHT, few studies have speculated that it may actually be the reduced SHBG that is responsible of these effects
.
Since the in-vitro and animal studies suggest stinging nettle roots to lower SHBG and possibly also 5-a reductase, the result should logically be significantly increased free-testosterone levels…
…However, in a human study where 558 subjects got 120 mg of nettle root extract 3-times per day, the researchers saw no change in testosterone
. In fact, the only research in living organism to ever show increases in testosterone levels, was conducted on rats that were already being supplemented with testosterone injections
.
Conclusion
From the above studies, it’s obvious that all the claims of nettle root benefits, simply don’t pan out in human trials.
• In isolated cell-cultures, nettle roots inhibit SHBG and can even free-up bound hormones from it.
• In isolated cells, nettle root extract also slightly inhibits 5-a reductase and could thus lead to lower DHT.
• In animal studies, nettle roots have shown to lower SHBG, increase testosterone, and improve prostate health.
• In the only human study to look at its effects on testosterone levels, no hormonal change was seen, although it improves prostate health.
Mesquite Powder – A Super Food
• Sweet Powder – Mesquite Pods are roasted and ground into a fine powder that is sweet and a great substitute for sugar.
• Native Americans used mesquite pods as a very important food source. The Apache, Cahuilla, Pima, Yuma, Maricopa, Hopi, and Mohave tribes who lived near desert areas all used mesquite for food.
• Nutty Taste – Mesquite powder has a nice nutty flavour and works well as a substitute for brown sugar.
• Fat Free – Mesquite powder has little to no true fat and cholesterol.
• Fiber – Mesquite powder contains lots of great soluble fiber which helps to prevent colon disease and cancer. It also provides a great environment for probiotic bacteria to grow thus boosting our immune system. Mesquite powder also improves motility of the gut and thus may help protect against polyp creation in the colon.
• Low Glycemic Index – Mesquite powder has a low glycemic index because it contains soluble fiber that slows down absorption. Instead of taking 2 hours to absorb like regular sugar… it slows down to 4 to 6 hours thus preventing sugar spikes.
• Diabetics – Mesquite powder is great for diabetics because it does not create blood sugar spikes. It contains a special form of fructose that does not require insulin. It’s interesting to note that ever since some of the Native American Tribes have switched to regular sugar and not eating mesquite powder… diabetes has increased.
• Anti-Fungal – Mesquite powder also has some anti-fungal compounds that help to prevent and rid the body of fungal infections.
• Migraines – Mesquite powder may also prevent headaches and migraines.
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids – Mesquite powder contains fatty acids — omega 3 oils that help with cardiovascular health, strokes, and cancer.
• Mesquite powder also contains zinc for boosting your immune system, lysine which is a great protein not found in other plant sources… and mesquite contains up to 30 percent protein.
• Also contains calcium for strong bones, potassium for water regulation and lowering blood pressure, magnesium for enzyme production, and copper and iron for anaemia.
Pomegranate Powder (Superfood Alert!)
Pomegranate powder is dried and ground pomegranate seeds. Because it is freeze-dried, it is raw, preserving nutrients and enzymes.
Pomegranate powder boasts high levels of phytonutrients including:
• vitamin C
• antioxidants
• potassium
• folate
Benefits of Pomegranates
Pomegranate is a member of the berry family and belongs to the Punicaceas family. It is one of the most popular fruits, which is cultivated for food, juice, flavour and colour. The name pomegranate is derived from the French words “pomme garnete”, which means seeded apple. Pomegranate is believed to have originated in Iran over 4000 years ago. This exotic fruit is even mentioned in Greek legends and ancient texts, including the Bible. It was brought to Egypt in 1600 BC, where it became revered not only as an important food source, but also for its medicinal purposes. It was also depicted in paintings and Egyptian tombs, where it symbolised life after death. The jewel toned seeds symbolise fertility, health and prosperity in some cultures. It is also used in the wedding ritual in several cultures. In Chinese symbolism, pomegranate, with its bright skin and tasty seeds is a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
Every pomegranate fruit is composed of exactly 840 seeds. The inner membranes and rind is not consumed due to the high acid content, but are often used by the cosmetic companies as an active ingredient in the skin care products. The pomegranate tree bears numerous bright red coloured, spherical shaped fruits of different colours like red, orange, yellow and purple, depending upon the cultivar. The fruit has a thick, leathery, red skin, which protects the pinkish red arils and seeds. The inside is separated by thin, white spongy membranes. Each section is packed with tiny, edible, sweet and juicy pink arils. Not just the arils, but the leaf, fruit, rind, bark, seed and root are also edible and have potential medicinal benefits.
Pomegranate Benefits for Skin:
A healthy skin not only looks beautiful, but also provides a layer of protection against infectious agents. The incredible antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranate encourages radiant and glowing skin. Many cosmetic and skin care manufacturers are now including pomegranate extract in their products. It is incorporated into the skin care products to treat problems like dry skin, age spots, and hyper-pigmentation. An ounce of pomegranate juice or a medium pomegranate provides ample of skin friendly nutrients which ensure that the skin stays at its best.
1. Vitamin E:
Pomegranate contains a high amount of vitamin E, a nutrient very beneficial for maintaining the health of the skin. A cup of fresh pomegranate juice contains 1.8 milligrams of Vitamin E or 14% of your daily recommended value.
2. Zinc:
Pomegranate is a good source of zinc, a mineral required for healthy functioning of the skin. Zinc regulates the growth of basal cells, the precursor cells that develop into mature skin tissue and assist in wound healing. Zinc also aids to activate super-oxide dismutase, an antioxidant that protects the skin from damage. One medium pomegranate provides 1.1 milligram of zinc, approximately 15% of the daily recommended value.
3. Copper:
Pomegranate contains a decent amount of copper, a mineral needed to produce melanin. Melanin is a pigment, which that gives colour to eyes, skin and hair. It also provides natural sun protection to the skin. A cup of pomegranate juice boosts your copper intake by nearly 500 micrograms, about 53% of the daily recommended value.
4. Wound healing:
Several studies have revealed that pomegranate helps to expedite healing. The seeds contain excellent healing properties, which protect the outer layers of the skin and aid in the regeneration of the cells.
5. Acne:
Pimples occur due to the hormonal imbalance in the body. Consuming pomegranate prevents acne by eliminating the root cause itself. It corrects the digestive issues in the body and improves blood circulation. Pomegranate contains high levels of vitamin C required for the production of sebum, an oily secretion by the sebaceous glands of the skin. Pomegranate also generates tissue in the affected area to minimise the appearance of acne scars. You can apply pomegranate extracts to the affected areas to get rid of acne.
6. Smooth skin:
This fruit is well known for its high concentration of iron, a constituent part of haemoglobin that helps in the transportation of oxygen. Oxygen is carried to the skin cells, making it look fresh and young.
7. Sun protection:
UVB radiation from the sun rays is known to be the main cause of skin conditions like photo-ageing and skin cancer. Pomegranates are very useful for countering the effects of harsh sun rays. It contains sun protective compound which protects the skin against free radical damage. It contains ellagic acid, a polyphenol antioxidant, which inhibits the growth of skin cancer. Pomegranate is useful for preventing skin conditions like pigmentation and age spots. It also relieves sun burn and reduces the signs of sun damage.
8. Antioxidants:
Antioxidants are naturally occurring substances in plants that protect from the effects of free radicals. The antioxidants work from the inside and are much more effective than any moisturiser or sunscreen. Free radicals interfere with the normal cellular functions, which have a negative impact on the skin health. Anthocyanin and hydrolysable in pomegranates combat the free radicals, inhibiting any room for them to grow. They also prevent the free radicals from destroying healthy cells. The antioxidants in pomegranate prevent the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
9. Anti-ageing:
The anti-ageing properties of pomegranate rejuvenate the skin, both internally and externally. The super-food protects the skin from premature ageing by reducing the signs of ageing caused by constant exposure to the sun. It helps to maintain the collagen and keeps it healthy for a longer period of time. Collagen is the basic component of the skin, which maintains the elasticity and firmness of the skin. Pomegranates contain certain compounds, which prevent the breaking down of collagen and keep the skin healthy. It also helps in the growth of fibroblasts, the cells that produce elastin and collagen. This ensures that the skin remains soft and supple. Thus, applying pomegranate oil on the skin slows down the formation of wrinkles and other signs related to ageing.
10. Dry skin:
Pomegranate is a boon for dry skinned beauties. Pomegranate seeds have a small molecular structure, which makes it easy to penetrate into the skin and hydrate it from within. It soothes dry and flaky skin and prevents moisture loss.
11. Bacteria:
Pomegranate contains punicic acid, which keeps the bacteria at bay and ensures that the skin remains moist and healthy throughout the day.
12. Skin inflammation:
Pomegranate is very beneficial for treating the skin inflammation. It is better than any over the counter ointment available. It contains polyphenols and several compounds, which help to heal small cuts and wounds. Consume pomegranates or apply its extracts on the affected areas to ensure that the skin heals quickly.
Pomegranate Benefits for Health:
Pomegranates have come to the forefront of the nutrition movement as a “wonder fruit”. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidant which are essential for good health and optimal growth. Below mentioned are some of the most popular pomegranate health benefits.
13. Digestion:
Pomegranate plays a vital role in the secretion of enzymes to improve the function of digestion. Mix pomegranate juice with a teaspoon of honey to cure indigestion and giddiness. The fruit is also effective for treating hyperacidity. It is a rich form of alkali, which helps to neutralise acid. Pomegranate fruit or juice should be taken daily for about a month to notice positive results.
14. Piles:
Pomegranate is very effective for treating piles. The fruit should be consumed every morning by adding a pinch of salt. This should be taken for three months daily. You can also take the fruit with honey. Take one teaspoon of dried pomegranate rind powder and mix it with buttermilk to arrest bleeding piles.
15. Antioxidants:
One of the main benefits of pomegranate is the incredible amount of antioxidants found in this fruit. Pomegranate has 3 times more antioxidants than green tea and red wine. It contains three types of polyphenols: anthocyanin, ellagic acid and tannins, which supports immune system and protects from several diseases. The high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols in pomegranate help to minimise and scavenge free radicals in the body.
16. Cardiovascular health:
One of the most important health benefits of pomegranate is the protection it provides against heart diseases. Drinking a glass of pomegranate juice every day increases the blood flow in the body, reducing the workload of the heart. It thins out the blood and removes plaque from the arteries, minimising the risk of atherosclerosis. Researchers have found that drinking pomegranate juice reduces LDL cholesterol without disturbing the HDL in the body. Pomegranate juice and seeds also increase oxygen levels in the heart.
17. Cancer:
Pomegranate has been found to potentially help with different types of cancer including prostate, skin and breast cancer. The antioxidants in pomegranate help to counteract free radicals, preventing cancer.
18. Improves Bone health:
Recent studies have shown that pomegranate can help people who suffer from osteoporosis. The fruit is very effective in attacking the protein Interleukin 1-b, a pro-inflammatory protein, which is largely responsible for causing osteoarthritis and degradation of the cartilage. The enzymes present in pomegranate prevent damage and degeneration of the cartilage thereby, preventing osteoarthritis. It also inhibits anti-inflammatory response in the body, making them beneficial for people suffering from osteoporosis.
19. Alzheimer’s disease:
Pomegranate is very useful for preventing the development of Alzheimer’s disease. In a study, the lab mice were bred with the genetic predisposition to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Half of the mice were given a regular dosage of pomegranate juice and the other half was given normal food. The mice that were supplemented with pomegranate juice accumulated less amyloid plague, a substance considered as the major contributor to Alzheimer’s disease. The mice also experienced an enhanced ability to perform mental tasks and respond to mental puzzle.
20. Digestive system:
Pomegranate juice secretes enzymes with antibacterial properties, which aid digestion. It helps to fight off haemorrhoids, nausea, dysentery, intestinal worms and diarrhoea. You can also use pomegranate juice as a laxative to treat constipation.
21. Anaemia:
The high levels of iron in pomegranates raise the haemoglobin levels in the body to correct anaemia. Regular consumption of pomegranate also prevents the formation of blood clots.
22. Prostate cancer:
Pomegranates have been found to reduce prostate specific antigen. The juice of pomegranate inhibits the growth of cancer cells and lowers the risk of metastasizing. The high phytochemicals in the pomegranate juice have a strong effect on stabilising the growth of PSA in men.
23. Aid in pregnancy:
Pomegranate is a rich source of niacin, potassium, calcium, vitamin C, folate, iron and fiber, which are very beneficial for pregnant women. It helps to maintain a pregnant woman’s health and encourage cell growth. Consuming pomegranate juice during pregnancy also helps to reduce cramps and sleep problems. It is also known to increase blood flow to the baby to reduce the risk of brain damage.
24. Breast cancer:
Pomegranates contain ellagitannin, an antioxidant which prevents oestrogen responsive breast cancer cells from growing. It also inhibits aromatase that is used to create oestrogen, thereby, reducing the risk of breast cancer.