There has been a great deal of research about diet, the great majority of which has emphasized the importance of fruits, vegetables and whole foods. The Mediterranean diet, based primarily on fruits, vegetables and fish, can be particularly health protective, helping everything from cardiovascular disease to depression. Defining the Mediterranean diet can be challenging because […]
Ginseng, Mental Performance and Alzheimer’s Disease
Research supports ginseng’s effectiveness at improving the ability to withstand stress, improve work performance and quality, and enhance mental function. It has also been shown to increase the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone, which stimulates an increase in adrenal hormone secretion. Ginseng (Panax ginseng) can prevent the nicotine-induced release of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is what […]
Increasing Energy with Herbs and Nutrition
There’s a lot of talk about an energy crisis, including electricity and gas, but little about the nation’s general lack of physical energy. People who deal with stress, such as recovery from addiction and everyday life, are constantly looking for ways to boost energy. How else do you explain the success of massive coffee shop […]
Kudzu and Substance Abuse
Kudzu (Ascophyllum nodosum) is a quick-growing weed that climbs, coils, and trails vine native to southern Japan and southeast China. Its name comes from the Japanese name for the plant, Kuzu. Kudzu contains puerarin (PU), a substance that can suppress inflammation-related abnormalities of alcoholic drinking. For centuries, Chinese herbalists have used kudzu to reduce alcohol […]