organic sea buckthorn oil

In a study published in the August 2011 issue of Food Research International, researchers from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada and the Indian Institute of Technology in New Delhi found that sea buckthorn berries to be nutrient-rich, packed with vitamins A, K, E, C, B1 and B2, fatty acids, lipids, organic acids, amino acids, carbohydrates, folic acid, and flavonoids.

Sea buckhorn oil is currently used by health care professionals and lay people alike to alleviate such conditions as: eczema, sunburns, mouth dryness and ulcers, gastric ulcers, urinary tract inflammations, genital ulcers, sinus inflammation and eye dryness.

From CAOH: Our Sea Buckthorn oil is certified organic?  First of all, it guarantees that you are getting a product that is free of additives, chemicals and preservatives.  Secondly, because buying certified organic Sea Buckthorn ensures that you are actually getting Sea Buckthorn oil.  We have been selling Sea Buckthorn for about 7 years, and since Dr. Oz’s recent recommendation Sea Buckthorn has increased in popularity.  It has also increased the number of Sea Buckthorn products on the market and many of them are not pure Sea Buckthorn or may not even contain Sea Buckthorn.  Buying certified organic Sea Buckthorn ensures that you are buying the real thing at its best!

Macular degeneration is a major cause of gradual, painless, central vision loss in the elderly. The average age at onset of visual loss is about 75 years. After the age of 50 years, the incidence steadily increases; over one-third of people in their ninth decade of life are affected. Researchers have implied that certain conditions may contribute to the disorder. Some of these are arteriosclerosis, oxidative damage, photic damage, inflammation, diet, vitamin and rare element deficiencies, and genetics.

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, grow on an evergreen shrub found in temperate and subtropical regions in China and Mongolia. Goji berries marketed as from Tibet such as "Tibetan Goji berries" or "Himalayan Goji berries" are a misnomer.  The Himalayas nor Tibet are in subtropical regions (See Map).  They are in the nightshade (Solonaceae) family. Goji berries are usually found dried. They are shriveled red berries that look like red raisins. Goji berries have been used for 6,000 years by herbalists in China, Tibet and India to (1).  Goji is also used in Juice, Powder and Oils.

• protect the liver
• help eyesight
• improve sexual function and fertility
• strengthen the legs
• boost immune function
• improve circulation
• promote longevity

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. One of zeaxanthin’s key roles is to protect the retina of the eye by absorbing blue light and acting as an antioxidant. In fact, increased intake of foods containing zeathanthin may decrease the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in people over the age of 65.

Although it is purported that goji berry is beneficial to vision due to its high concentration of the antioxidant, zeaxanthin, no previous, high quality studies have found this result. Researchers decided to conduct a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in healthy elderly subjects to determine the effects of goji berry on macular characteristics and plasma zeaxanthin and antioxidant capacity levels. The study included a total of 150 elderly adults between the ages of 65 and 70 years who were randomized to receive either 13.7 grams per day of a milk-based goji berry formulation or placebo for 90 days. The participants underwent ophthalmic examinations to assess pigmentation and soft drusen count in the macula (accumulations in the eye that are associated with macular degeneration) and a blood draw to measure plasma zeaxanthin level and total antioxidant capacity. The results revealed that those in the placebo group were found to have hypopigmentation and soft drusen accumulation in the macula, whereas those in the goji berry group remained stable. It was also found that both plasma zeaxanthin level and antioxidant capacity increased significantly in the goji berry group by 26% and 57%, respectively, but did not change in the placebo group. No participants reported any adverse reactions to the goji berry formulation. These findings suggest that goji berry supplementation increases plasma zeaxanthin and antioxidant levels as well as protects from hypopigmentation and soft drusen accumulation in the macula of elderly subjects. (2)

1.  Goji berries are mentioned in Tibet Medicine texted, but they are not cultivated in any marketable quantity in those regions.  The climate is not conducive to grow Goji Lycium barbarum L. the climate of Tibet and the Himalayas is simply to dry!

2.  Bucheli P, Vidal K, Shen L, et al. Goji berry effects on macular characteristics and plasma antioxidant levels. Optom Vis Sci. 2011;88(2):257-62.

Seabuckthorn fights gum disease – who knew!

On March 11, 2011 Dr Oz reviewed the health benefits of the seabuckthorn oil with guest Dr. Gerald P. Curatola, an expert in rejuvenation dentistry.  They discussed its role as the best secret weapon against gum and dental disease for its rich nutritional content, anti-inflammatory, high antioxidant properties, and high omega content.  This is a wonderful new application for this product, and another example of the multiple uses of natural supplements.

Seabuckthorn oil is an effective health and beauty powerhouse, which California Academy of Health (CAOH) started selling approximately 7 years ago, even before it was widely available and at that time not certified organic, but simply wild harvested.  Seabuckthorn provides nourishing properties to the skin, hair and nails. The tiny Seabuckthorn berry, about one-third the size of a blueberry, offers a powerful combination of nutrients, vitamins and health benefits that are unmatched.  The seabuckthorn berry (Hippophae rhamnoides) has been one the least publicized of all super fruits/berries, but this tiny yellow/orange jewel delivers more than 190 bioactive nutrients, is packed with antioxidants, and offers more vitamin C than just one orange.

Our 100% organic, cold pressed, Seabuckthorn oil is loaded with essential omega fatty acids 3, 6 and 9.  In addition, it contains omega 7 fatty acids, a rare and vital component for healthy hair, skin and nails.  Seabuckthorn Oil naturally relieves dry patches of skin, acne, dermatitis, rosacea, and scars. Skin rapidly absorbs the moisture and the oil is suitable for all ages and skin types. Our therapeutic grade, certified organic oil is 100% pure with no additives or preservatives.

CAOH's Seabuckthorn is 100% pure and is organic, contains no preservatives, dairy, wheat, gluten, sodium or yeast. It can be used internally and externally.  Note that many Seabuckthorn oils being offered are only to to be used externally!  It is important to note the difference when buying!

Click here to read some Seabuckthorn Lore and Facts!

There are many different types of products using seabuckthorn now, but note that juice products using seabuckthorn have had much of the oils removed and even use powders to fortify their juices.  This in and of itself is not bad, but the Seabuckthorn berry does not really lend itself to yummy juice.  It is a hard berry that is in fact pretty bitter tasting.  Seabuckthorn is not a berry you'd pluck from the vine and pop in your mouth!  However, the resulting oil from the berry and seeds is really the best way to deliver the product – in fact the berry yields are between 25% and 50% oil.  The resulting oil highly concentrates all of its best properties.   CAOH's Seabuckthorn Oil is just two wonderful ounces of this pure oil!

Many of our customers love to combine our organic Tamanu oil with the seabuckthorn oil for use topically.  It is a 1 – 2 punch on dry patches of skin, acne, dermatitis, rosacea, and scars.  Additionally, our seabuckthorn oil is a great oil to mix with our organic oregano oil – it helps to tone down the taste and strength of the oregano oil.

Click here to get some!

Recently I was in a small market and I wanted some strawberry jam or preserves, real strawberry jam – I love it!  I found one that looked good.  It stated all natural strawberry preserves on the front label – it had a nice looking natural look to it and seemed a fair cost.  I put it into the cart and started to walk away when I noticed another brand that was organic.  I stopped and thought – read the label, dummy!

The brand that stated “all natural” was not really.  It did have some strawberries in it, but it was also high in fructose corn syrup and three different preservatives. Not very natural!  I then read the organic strawberry bottle and lo and behold it was 100% nothing added certified organic strawberry jam!

The contents look pretty much the same, but clearly they were not.  The organic jam may have cost more – but it was what I really wanted – real strawberry jam.

The other day we ran across a video that emphasizes the point even further.  “Blueberries found in blueberry bagels, cereals, breads and muffins are REAL blueberries right? Wrong! Award-winning investigative journalist Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, exposes the deceptive chemical ingredients and dishonest marketing of “blueberry” products from big-name food and cereal companies. The blueberries, it turns out, are made from artificial colors, hydrogenated oils and liquid sugars.”

This video really illustrates the point:

As you all know from our newsletters and website we try to push this message.  It really is important to know what you are buying.  Buying organic is very important.  This is why!

There are many companies marketing products that don’t contain what they appear to, based on the front label.  Much of the Goji, Mangosteen, Acai, Noni, Pomegranate, Maqui, Sea Buckthorn Oil,, Tamanu Oil, and Oregano Oil for sale are so much less than the pure product you should expect.  Many are significantly diluted versions of their former selves, containing only trace amounts of the ingredients listed on the label. Plus, a whole lot of other ingredients you don’t want.

It’s not just off-brands marketed on the web – it’s big name brands and retailers that are providing misleading information regularly.  We are not big fans of the Walmart’s, Monsanto’s and GNC’s of the world.  We like and do support small business that are the backbone of this nation.

This is why buying organic products is really worth the effort and the cost.  In order to be organic they have to be independently inspected, and additive free!  Its a way of really ensuring you are getting what you intend to get!

So read the label, buy organic when you can, buy natural when you can and live healthy!

Thanks,

CAOH

An organic update from CAOH

One of the earmarks of a high quality supplement company is demonstrated by their Organic Certification.  In order to receive this certification, you go through a rigorous inspection process to ensure that the products you are offering meet all the guidelines. 

CAOH goes through this inspection process every year!  (We just did again!)  We want to make sure you know that we are making every effort to keep our quality and value ahead of the curve.

Whenever possible, buy organic!

Important: Why is it important that products be certified organic?  First of all, it guarantees that you are getting a product that is free of additives, chemicals and preservatives.  Secondly, because buying certified organic ensures that you are actually getting the real item.  Buying certified organic ensures that you are buying the real thing at its best!

Here is a list of our organic products:

Steps to help combat the Cold and Flu season!

With the cold and flu season upon us it’s important to take some preventative, proactive steps.  We get reports from our customers coping with all stages of cold and flu symptoms — some from the first aches and pains to those with full-blown fever and congestion. Here are a few tips to help during the cold and flu season to hold off and combat colds and flu naturally.

First, it is important to make sure you’re doing everything you can to boost your immune system to prevent illness. Stay hydrated, and eat a healthy balanced diet that incorporates a variety of foods, get between 7-8 hours of sleep and perform some type of exercise, for at least 30 minutes, every other day.  Dr. Marcus Ettinger, with 21 years of treating cold and flu patients recommends taking a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement. By giving your body that needed nutritional support, you’re much better equipped to fight off seasonal sickness.

Want to nip symptoms in the bu**? Have some favorite products on hand at home, so when the first signs of a cold or flu appear you have them readily available. Researching what works best for you and your family in advance will also create a sense of empowerment.

Here are a few natural products that have worked time and again for many people:

1.    Vitamin C has been studied for many years as a possible treatment for colds, or as a way to prevent colds.

2.    Keeping up on your Multi-Vitamin and Mineral supplements:

A.   Liquids Power Multi V™ (for ages 12 through senior adults).

B.    Kidamins™ (for ages 1 through 12) (See below).

3.   Immune-Plus Elixir™ which includes the immune stimulating power of Black Elderberry, Red Raspberry, Pomegranate, Red Beet and Honey.  Great for helping with a cough!

4.   Liquid Immune Barrier Advanced Formula™ with the immune supporting power of Norwegian Beta Glucan and Echinacea.  This is great to take the minute you sense any kind of cold symptom to prevent worsening.

Some people also find oregano oil and Colloidal silver be helpful, whether they are experiencing a bacterial or viral infection.

A.   Oregano Oil: Note: Internally 1-4 drops 2-3 times daily. Use caution Very Strong – suggest mixing with another carrier oil, juice, shake/smoothie or water. When used externally – dilute and apply liberally.

B.   Colloidal Silver: Has a long history of use – that works great for many people.

The key to natural immune support is dosing every two hours. That’s why tincture formulas (liquid dropper formulas) are great — they can be added to juice or water, making it much easier to take more frequently.

Finally, rest, sleep, rest, sleep — staying hydrated and nourished. FYI: It’s OK and probably a good idea to take a day off work.  In most cases the flu is self-resolving with practiced wellness and resting.  Of course, if symptoms have progressed into the chest or symptoms don’t seem to improve, a physician should always be consulted.

Of course if you have specific questions please drop Dr. Ettinger a message at askthedoctor@caoh.com. Or give us a call at 800-643-7188.

Stay Healthy!

CAOH

Source: Annals of Oncology

Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which malignant cells are found in the tissue of the pancreas. In 2009 in the United States there were 42,470 new cases and 35,240 die from the disease. The prognosis is relatively poor but has improved; the three-year survival rate is now about thirty percent (according to the Washington University School of Medicine), but less than 5 percent of those diagnosed are still alive five years after diagnosis. Complete remission is still rare. Pancreatic cancer is sometimes called a "silent killer" because early pancreatic cancer often does not cause symptoms, and the later symptoms are usually non-specific and varied. Therefore, pancreatic cancer is often not diagnosed until it is advanced.

Folic acid (also known as folate) is a member of the water-soluble B vitamin group. Isolated in 1946 from spinach leaves, its name comes from folium, the Latin word for leaf. In the body, folic acid is converted to a more biologically active form. Folate has many clinical applications such as: Alzheimer’s disease, alcoholism, atherosclerosis, birth defects, cervical dysplasia, cognitive enhancement, depression, gingivitis, pregnancy and lactation. Folic acid is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin E is actually a group of eight compounds including four tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta) and four additional tocotrienol derivatives. Alpha tocopherol is the most common and the most potent form. It is what is usually meant by the term vitamin E. Pure vitamin E compounds are easily oxidized, so they are manufactured as acetate or succinate esters. Earlier research has shown an association between vegetable and fruit consumption and pancreatic cancer, but there has been no consistency in the identification of certain components in these foods. Scientists from the Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research in Milan, Italy investigated the role of 15 vitamins and carotenoids and 6 minerals play in preventing pancreatic cancer. They surveyed 326 patients with pancreatic cancer and 652 controls by having the participants fill out a food-frequency questionnaire. The results were the highest quintile of intake of vitamin E, vitamin C, folate and potassium were less likely to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer compared to those with the lowest quintile intake of the nutrients. These findings suggest vitamins E and C, selected carotenoids, and folate play a role in the prevention of pancreatic cancer.(1)

1.    Bravi F, Polesel J, Bosetti C, et al. Dietary intake of selected micronutrients and the risk of pancreatic cancer: an Italian case-control study. Ann Oncol. 2010

Source: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Eczema is a chronic skin condition, characterized by dry, red, flaky patches of skin.  Eczema appears most commonly on the face, neck, elbows, wrists, knees, behind the ears, and on the scalp. During acute episodes, the patches become oozing, inflamed, and itchy.  There are currently two recognized classifications of dermatitis: atopic and contact.  Contact dermatitis is typically aggravated by direct skin contact with allergens, such as chemicals, wool, lanolin, soap, or cosmetics.  Atopic eczema is usually triggered by inhaled or ingested allergens, such as certain foods, pollen, dust, or animal dander.  Some literature discusses a third classification, "dysregulatory microbial eczemas."  This category refers to eczema caused by the introduction of microflora into the horny layer of the skin, and a breakdown in the epidermis, resulting in inflammation.

Food allergies appear to play a significant role in atopic dermatitis.  The presence of severe eczema has been associated with an increased tendency to produce food-specific IgE antibodies.  Although the subject is debated, maternal antigen exposure during pregnancy and lactation may increase the chance of eczema in infancy.  Studies have confirmed that women who avoid antigens during pregnancy and lactation, and exclusively breast feed have reduced occurrence of infants with atopic eczema.

Antioxidant nutrients help support the immune system especially when the body is under stress, thereby, reducing the risk of many illnesses including cancer, cardiovascular disease and other chronic degenerative diseases.  It is not advisable to take large amounts of one or two antioxidants while excluding the rest.  For optimal protection, a nutritional supplement program should include multiple antioxidants.  The primary antioxidants are vitamins A, C, E, beta-carotene, selenium, coenzyme Q10, and lipoic acid.  Also, there are other powerful antioxidant sources such as selenium, grape seed extract, and green tea.  There are many other nutrients that also function as antioxidants.

AA case-control, population-based study was published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition to investigate the link between antioxidant nutrient intake and the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children.  The researchers enrolled 180 children with atopic dermatitis and 242 without AD all being five years old.  Their diets were assessed by using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and fasting blood samples were used to analyze fat-soluble vitamins such as retinol, alpha-tocopherol, beta-carotene and vitamin C.  The results were a reduction of AD by 56 percent in children with the highest intake of beta-carotene in comparison to children with the lowest intake.  There was a similar association with vitamin E at 67 percent, folic acid at 63 percent and iron at 61 percent reduction in AD risk.  Highest levels of alpha-tocopherol were associated with a 36 percent reduced risk of AD and retinol was at 26 percent lower risk.  The researchers stated “These findings suggest that higher antioxidant nutritional status reduces the risk of AD and that such risk-reduction effects depend on nutrient type.”

1. Oh SY, Chung J, Kim MK, et al. Antioxidant nutrient intakes and corresponding biomarkers associated with the risk of atopic dermatitis in young children. Eur J Clin Nutr. Jan 2010.

We offer several antioxidant rich supplements, but here are two to choose from:

Kidamins™: Liquid Multi Vitamins for Children age 1 through 12!

Liquid Power Multi-V™: Complex Multi Vitamins for the whole family.

Being troubled by eczema myself – I have found that Noni Juice, Tamanu Oil and Seabuckthorn Oil are quite helpful when my eczema flairs up!

CAOH

Date: 9/13/2010

Lactobacillus and the Use of Antibiotics

Source: Pharmacotherapy

Lactobacillus is a type of bacteria found in the intestinal tract and genital systems and is also found in fermenting products such as yogurt and dietary supplements. Antibiotics can cause diarrhea and labtobacillus has been used to help restore normal balance of intestinal bacteria eliminating the diarrhea. It has also been used for vaginal and urinary tract infections. Lactobacillus should not be taken without a physician’s approval if the body’s immune system is weakened by diseases such as HIV/Aids or organ transplant recipients because they might already be taking supplements containing live bacteria.

Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of ten randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled studies to evaluate the efficacy of Lactobacillus probiotic in preventing antibiotic associated diarrhea. The studies were found in the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. The ten studies included a total of 1,862 patients where six of the studies were in patients 18 years or older and four of the studies in patients younger than 18 years of age. The overall results revealed that the risk of developing antibiotic-associated diarrhea was significantly lower with Lactobacillus as compared with placebo. After a subgroup analysis, it was determined that the probiotic did not significantly reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in pediatric patients. It appears that administration of Lactobacillus as a prophylactic agent during antibiotic treatment may reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in adults, but not in pediatric patients.1

1 Kale-Pradhan PB, Jassal HK, Wilhelm SM. Role of Lactobacillus in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea: a meta-analysis. Pharmacotherapy. 2010;30(2):119-26

This study illustrates the necessity of taking probiotics during and after the the use of antibiotics.

Vitamin B 'puts off Alzheimer's'

By: Jane Hughes Health correspondent, BBC News – September 8, 2010

A new study suggests high doses of B vitamins may halve the rate of brain shrinkage in older people experiencing some of the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.  Brain shrinkage is one of the symptoms of mild cognitive impairment, which often leads to dementia.  

Researchers say this could be the first step towards finding a way to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s.  Experts said the findings were important but more research was needed.

The study, published in the journal Public Library of Science One, looked at 168 elderly people experiencing levels of mental decline known as mild cognitive impairment.  This condition, marked by mild memory lapses and language problems, is beyond what can be explained by normal ageing and can be a precursor to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.  Half of the volunteers were given a daily tablet containing levels of the B vitamins folate, B6 and B12 well above the recommended daily amount. The other half were given a placebo.

After two years, the rate at which their brains had shrunk was measured.  The average brain shrinks at a rate of 0.5% a year after the age of 60. The brains of those with mild cognitive impairment shrink twice as fast. Alzheimer’s patients have brain shrinkage of 2.5% a year.

The team, from the Oxford Project to investigate Memory and Ageing (Optima), found that on average, in those taking vitamin supplements, brain shrinkage slowed by 30%.

In some cases it slowed by more than 50%, making their brain atrophy no worse than that of people without cognitive impairment.

‘Protecting’ the brain

Certain B vitamins – folic acid, vitamin B6 and B12 – control levels of a substance known as homocysteine in the blood. High levels of homocysteine are associated with faster brain shrinkage and Alzheimer’s disease.

The study authors believe it was the B vitamins’ effect on levels of homocysteine that helped slow the rate of brain shrinkage.  The studies author, Professor David Smith, said the results were more significant than he had expected.  "It’s a bigger effect than anyone could have predicted," he said, "and it’s telling us something biological.  "These vitamins are doing something to the brain structure – they’re protecting it, and that’s very important because we need to protect the brain to prevent Alzheimer’s." He said more research was now needed to see whether high doses of B vitamins actually prevented the development of Alzheimer’s in people with mild cognitive impairment.  The Alzheimer’s Research Trust, which co-funded the study, also called for further investigation.  "These are very important results, with B vitamins now showing a prospect of protecting some people from Alzheimer’s in old age," said chief executive Rebecca Wood.  "The strong findings must inspire an expanded trial to follow people expected to develop Alzheimer’s."

B vitamins are found naturally in many foods, including meat, fish, eggs and green vegetables.  Experts are warning people not to start taking very high levels of vitamin supplements without medical advice.

Chris Kennard, chair of the Medical Research Council’s Neurosciences and Mental Health Board, said: "We must be cautious when recommending supplements like vitamin B as there are separate health risks if taken in too high doses.   "Further research is required before we can recommend the supplement as a treatment for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s."

The UK’s Food Standards Agency says taking more than 200 milligrams a day of vitamin B6 can lead to a loss of feeling in the arms and legs, but these symptoms are reversible once someone stops taking the supplements.  It adds that taking 2mg or less of vitamin B12 supplements a day is unlikely to cause harm, but that there is not enough evidence to know what the effects of taking more than that would be.  Taking too much folic acid – over 1mg a day – can mask signs of vitamin B12 deficiency. An early symptom of B12 deficiency is anemia, but taking large amounts of folic acid treats the anemia without treating the B12 deficiency.

Two of our most popular products offer complex B vitamins:

Liquid Complete B Advanced Formula™

Liquid Power Multi-V™ is Perfect For the Entire Family!