Natural Remedies Reviews

How Much Zinc for Fertility?

2011-06-09T13:35:00.000-07:00

How much zinc for fertility? What does the research studies show?

There are minerals, supplements and herbal remedies that have been used to enhance fertility in both men and women.

Zinc is one such commonly discussed mineral. Indeed, there are research studies done in animals to show that a deficiency in zinc can impair sperm motility and quality. But are there any studies done in humans to show this to be the case?

We did locate one such study that looked at how zinc might be helpful in boosting sperm count:

Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Wong WY, et al.

Fertil Steril. 2002 Mar;77(3):491-8.

One hundred and eight men who do not have fertility problems and 103 men who are subfertile were recruited in this clinical trial.

They were randomly assigned to either take a placebo (sugar pill), folic acid, zinc and zinc plus folic acid for 26 weeks. The researchers collected blood levels and sperm for analysis both before and after the volunteers underwent the treatment.

What the researchers found was that men with lower fertility showed a remarkable 74% increase in total normal sperm with a zinc and folic acid supplement. This benefit was also seen in healthy fertile men (though not as dramatic).

The conclusion from the researchers was that taking zinc and folic acid supplement significantly improve sperm count in both healthy and infertile men.

Dose of zinc to use

In this study, the volunteers took 5 mg of folic acid and 66 mg of zinc. Check your multivitamin that you currently take as it may have enough of it. If not, you can always top-up with a folic acid and zinc supplement. They don't cost very much at all.

Herbs to increase fertility?

We have created a very detailed list of Natural Remedies to Boost Fertility that is worth reading. There you will discover many other natural supplements that work well for increasing the chance of conceiving.

Foods to eat to boost fertility?

Did you know that what you eat could impact your fertility? Find out what foods to eat and what not to eat in this informative article Fertility Diet.

What is the best herb for boosting fertility?

While there are many combination natural remedies out there, the one that stands out is Fertile XX and XY specifically designed for men and women. It is a professionally formulated natural remedy that include herbs shown to be helpful in boosting fertility. They have a customized formulation for men and another one for women.

It is a very popular natural supplement for couples trying to conceive as the company backs their products up unconditionally. There are many satisfied customers who have used the product.

Get More Info on Fertile XX and XY

Related Resources and Articles for How Much Zinc for Fertility

Fertility Diet
Herbs to Boost Fertility
Remedies to Increase Sperm Motility

References for How Much Zinc for Fertility

Tea Tree Oil Candida - How to Use It

2011-05-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Tea tree oil for candida - How to use it

We have received many requests from our clients on natural remedies that work to fight off candida albican infections. These are fungal infections that occur on skin (think athlete's foot and ringworm) to vaginal yeast infections.

The good news is that there is scientific evidence that tea tree oil works to kill off the fungus.

The full report can be found in our article Benefits of Tea Tree Oil so we won't provide the details here.

How to use it for candida infections - The various dosage recommendations

How to use it for athlete's foot

Apply a 10% (up to 50%) tea tree oil solution or gel to the affected areas two times daily. It may take up to 4 weeks for a complete cure, depending on the severity of the infection. For information on how to make this gel, see our article Tea Tree Oil Dilution Guidelines.

How to use it for ringworm infections

The same dosage formulation for treating athlete's foot can also be effectively used on ringworm infections as well. It probably takes about 2 weeks for a cure, a bit faster than with athlete's foot. However, it may take up to 4 weeks in some cases.

How to use it for vaginal yeast infections

The vaginal douche formula is fully described in the article Tea Tree Oil for Infection.

No doubt, tea tree oil is a versatile antiseptic liquid that many people have in their first-aid cabinet. Find out all the benefits of tea tree oil in our unbiased review today!

The Complete and Unbiased Review of Tea Tree Oil

Related Articles and Resources

Tea tree oil dilution guidelines

Tea tree oil for Foot Fungus

References for Tea Tree Oil Candida How to Use It

How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Bad Breath

2011-05-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

Discover how to use tea tree oil for bad breath. Does it really work?

Tea tree oil is known to possess antiseptic properties. It can kill fungus and bacteria in the mouth responsible for bad breath (halitosis). But are there scientific studies to show this to be case?

Fortunately, the answer is yes!

A study completed in Korean in 2007 at the School of Nursing showed that a solution of tea tree oil with peppermint and lemon was more effective than Tantum (a prescription mouthwash) for reducing bad breath.

The odor reduction was noticed in 5 minutes after treatment and it lasted up to 1 hour. (Of course, the odor control could have lasted much longer but the study stopped at the one hour mark.)

And the level of odor reduction wasn't just what the researchers thought they smelled. They actually used a halimeter to accurately determine the level of the bad breath reduction.

Bottom line?

It works!

Make a 5% tea tree oil mouth wash for bad breath by mixing 5 mL of pure tea tree oil with 100 mL of water. Instead of water, you may choose to mix it in your favorite mouthwash. You may add several drops of peppermint and lemon if necessary. Rinse your mouth for 3 minutes (that's how long the subjects did in the above mentioned research study) and spit out.

You can follow this regime two or three times daily after brushing your teeth.

Remember not to swallow any of this mouth rinse as tea tree oil can be toxic if taken by mouth.

For more detailed information on how to dilute tea tree oil properly, see Tea Tree Oil Dilution Guidelines.

To discover the many health benefits of tea tree oil see the article Benefits of Tea Tree Oil.

Related Articles and Resources on How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Bad Breath

Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

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Reference for How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Bad Breath

Tea Tree Oil for Fungal Infection of the Nails

2011-05-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

How effective is tea tree oil for fungal infection of the nails?

Our clients are always looking for natural remedies to treat common ailments. Onychomycosis is the medical term for nail fungus.

It is a very difficult condition to treat and cure, in part, due to the poor circulation to the nail bed. Moreover, the nail is pretty much a solid mass that doesn't easily allow medications to get to.

But, you might have heard of the potency of tea tree oil as an antiseptic liquid. Indeed, studies show that it has the ability to even kill off MRSA (methacillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), a very difficult bacteria that is found in hospitals.

We did find one clinical trial (J. Fam Practice, 1994) showing that a 100% tea tree oil solution applied twice daily to the nails for 6 months resulted in a cure rate similar to using the non-prescription anti-fungal solution (clotrimazole).

If you think six month is a long time for tea tree oil to work, it is. And that should not be surprising. Even the best prescription anti-fungal pill (Lamisil) takes about 3 months to show good results. And the cost of that treatment is $1,400 for a 3 month supply!

That's the nature of fungal infections of the nail.

For more information about all the Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil, see our detailed unbiased report with the link provided below.

The Full Unbiased Review on the Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Related to Tea Tree Oil for Fungal Infection of the Nails

Tea Tree Oil for Infections

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Lysine for HSV - Does It Work?

2011-05-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

Does using lysine for HSV reduce the frequency and severity of the cold sores?

Lysine is an essential amino acid that the body uses to build protein. There's good scientific evidence to show that indeed, taking lysine supplements as well as using lysine creams on cold sores may be helpful in reducing the severity and frequency of cold sores outbreaks.

Cold sores virus (caused by the herpes simplex virus, HSV-1) and genital herpes (caused by HSV-2) seem to be inhibited from multiplying in the presence of l-lysine.

Lab studies have shown that high levels of lysine seem to inhibit viral reproduction. But what is the evidence from clinical studies to show that this effect can be expected in real-life situations?

Fortunately, there are many clinical trials (trials done in human subjects) that show this to be the case. One study (Dermatologica, 1987) showed that taking 1,000 mg daily of lysine supplement resulted in 2.4 times less outbreaks compared to the placebo group.

Another study (Altern Med Rev., 2005) also showed that an ointment containing l-lysine and zinc resulted in the lesion clearing up in 40% of the volunteers.

A large study involving 1543 volunteers (J. Antimicrob Chemother., 1983) showed that cold sore lesions healed in 6 to 15 days without lysine supplement but healed in only five days or less with lysine.

You can get lysine from your diet by eating foods high in lysine or by taking l-lysine supplements. Either method is an effective method of increasing the amount of lysine that is available to your body. As a matter of fact, by including more lysine rich foods in your diet, you can reduce (and perhaps eliminate) the amount of lysine supplements you will need to take.

Indeed, using lysine for HPV is effective and can go a long way in reducing the frequency and severity of cold sores outbreaks.

What about for HSV that causes genital herpes?

There is some evidence that lysine might be helpful for genital herpes as well, although the studies are less conclusive. It would be a good idea to give it a try anyways, since the side effects of lysine are minimal and the cost of the supplements is reasonable.

What is the best dose of lysine to use?

Our article Lysine Dose for Herpes gives a complete report on the best dose of lysine to take. It ranges from a low of 1 gram daily up to 3 grams three times daily for severe cases.

See Lysine for Cold Sores Dosage for the complete details along with recommendations from our panel of clinical pharmacists.

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Dose of Lysine for Cold Sores

2011-05-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

What is the most effective dose of lysine for cold sores?

In our clinical practice, we often get questions about using lysine for treating herpes infection. Prescription drugs for treating herpes are generally expensive (as are all anti-viral medications).

Some people have heard that eating foods high in lysine can help to reduce the severity and frequency of cold sores (caused by the herpes simplex virus or HSV). Indeed, there is some evidence that lysine supplements are effective.

Lysine is an amino acid that seems to inhibit viral replication. Lab studies show this. Many clinical studies, both involving small numbers and large numbers of subjects show significant reduction in frequency of outbreaks and the time for it to heal completely.

Upon reviewing existing clinical studies, the dosage ranges from a low of 0.5 gram once daily all the way up to 1 gram three times daily. Some experts have even suggested dose up to 3 grams three times daily ( 9 g daily). (This high dose is not dangerous as the side effects of lysine is uncommon.)

How is a person to decide?

There are two main factors one can consider when deciding an appropriate dose of lysine to use for treating cold sores.

For cold sores that are not severe or do not happen frequently, a preventative dose of 1 gram daily is suitable. Increase the dose to 1 g three times daily during an outbreak.

For outbreaks that are frequent or severe, a higher dose of 1 g three times daily can be taken for prevention and 3 g three times daily for treatment.

How would we define frequent? Perhaps three or four times a year. Infrequent might be, perhaps, once a year. As for severity, that would be open to interpretation.

Don't forget that if your diet is high in lysine, you can reduce the amount of lysine supplements to take.

See our detailed and unbiased article Benefits of Lysine to get a complete review along with ratings for each of the health conditions that lysine can be used to treat.

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Foods High in Lysine

Lysine and Herpes

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Saw Palmetto for Alopecia

2011-01-16T15:05:00.000-08:00

Does Using Saw Palmetto for Alopecia Helps to Regrow Hair?

Saw palmetto is used by the Native Americans to help treat urinary problems such as frequent urination and urinary incontinence. It is also commonly used for treating breast disorders in women.

Most of the clinical studies focused on the health benefits of saw palmetto for an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH). These studies suggest that this herb may be as effective as a prescription medication (Proscar) for treating enlarged prostate in men.

Saw palmetto also received recent attention as a suitable treatment for hair loss. Some small studies show that it can block the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Excessive DHT levels are implicated in causing hair loss (along with other factors such as genetics).

Indeed, one small study that involved 19 men show that taking saw palmetto with beta-sitosterol showed improved hair growth after five months. Although this study was quite small and perhaps the description of "hair growth" was not accurately defined, it did show promising benefits.

For some people, saw palmetto for alopecia treatment may produce results they are satisfied with. But you will have to be very patient. It may take at least five months of treatment with saw palmetto before there is any noticeable results.

What is the best remedy to treat hair loss?

Effective treatment of hair loss will require using combination products that include saw palmetto and non-prescription minoxidil solution on the scalp.

Provillus may be one of the best combination product available today. It combines natural remedies (including saw palmetto) along with a FDA approved hair growth ingredient to promote hair growth.

Get More Info on Provillus Now

What are the many other herbs that work to treat alopecia?

See our article Natural Remedies for Hair Loss to discover many herbs and supplements that work to promote hair growth.

References for Saw Palmetto for Alopecia

Cayenne for Circulation Improvement

2011-01-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

Thinking of using cayenne for circulation improvement?

Cayenne pepper comes from the chilli plant. The active ingredient that gives it the hot taste is capsaicin.

Cayenne is believed to be one of the best herbs for improving blood flow along with ginkgo.

Upon eating cayenne pepper, you get an immediate sense of increased blood flow throughout your entire body, especially on your face and skin.

Exactly how does cayenne work to improve circulation?

Cayenne pepper has a potent effect on the nerves in the mouth. Upon stimulating the nerves, blood vessels relax (dilate) to allow blood to flow more freely.

Some physicians even claim that cayenne pepper can be used during a heart attack to increase survival rates and prevent future heart attack. It would work by dilating the blood vessels so that the heart muscle can get more nutrients.

As well, some herbalists suggest that cayenne pepper can reverse heart disease and unclog blocked arteries.

However, there are no human studies to prove this particular benefit.

Nevertheless, cayenne pepper is definitely an herb worth taking to improve circulation, not only to the hands and feet but also to the entire body.

The good news is that you can easily get all the health benefits of cayenne pepper by including it in your cooking.

Then take natural supplements such as Circu-Live which contains herbs such as ginkgo to further enhance the blood flow throughout your body.

Best Natural Remedy for Treating Poor Circulation?

A product like Circu-Live is an effective combination all natural remedy that can be used with cayenne pepper for an added boost to improve circulation further.

Get More Info on Circu-Live Today

What Are Other Herbs for Circulation Improvement?

See our article Herbs for Circulation to discover many other natural remedies that work to improve poor circulation.

References for Cayenne for Circulation

Herbs for Poor Circulation

2011-01-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

The circulatory system is responsible for delivering enough nutrients and oxygen to every part of your body. For some people, having cold hands or feet or even poor memory might be a sign of poor circulation.

So what herbs for poor circulation could a person take?

Below are three popular herbs that have been and continues to be used by naturopaths and herbalists around the world for treating circulation problems.

#1 Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo is very well known for its ability to improve blood flow, especially to the brain. It is commonly recommended to help improve concentration and memory as it seems to boost blood flow to the brain. People in Germany and France commonly take ginkgo for this purpose.

By far gingko is the best of all the herbs for circulation improvement and herbalists commonly recommend ginkgo to their patients who suffer from poor circulation.

#2 Ginger

Ginger is known to be a warming herb that enhances circulation to all part of the body, especially the skin. It is traditionally used in Chinese medicine and in Asian cuisines. Even drinking ginger tea can be helpful in improving circulation to the hands and feet.

#3 Hawthorn

Research studies have revealed that hawthorn lowers blood pressure and helps treat congestive heart failure for those with heart disease. It is commonly used to lower high blood pressure.

What is best herbal remedy to use for treating poor circulation?

Circu-Live is a combination herbal remedy that contains three essential natural remedies including ginkgo for improving blood flow. It comes highly recommended by those who are currently using it. The company is so confident with the quality of their products that they offer a 1-year guarantee.

Get more info on Circu-Live today

To discover many other effective supplements and natural remedies for circulation problems along with recommended doses to use, see our detailed report Herbs for Circulation.

While there, get the two books The Seven Best Natural Remedies for Longevity and Total Health and Herbal Cures absolutely free when you subscribe to our newsletter at our Natural Remedies Review home page.

Herbs for Anxiety - Pharmacist Reveals What Works

2011-01-09T07:37:00.000-08:00

What are some effective herbs for anxiety treatment?

At one time or another, everyone goes through periods of anxiety. However, excessive anxiety when there is no apparent cause can affect your relationships and life in general. This is called generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

In severe cases of anxiety, it can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack complete with a pounding heart, chest pain and shortness of breath. This condition is called a panic attack.

Top three herbs that helps to reduce anxiety

#1 - Passionflower for anxiety

Passionflower is one of the most popular and effective herb to reduce anxiety and it provides a calming effect. Clinical studies show that it works as anecdotal evidence have suggested in the past. Today, most supplements for anxiety will include passionflower in their formulations.

#2 - Valerian for anxiety

Valerian is a herb known for its ability to induce sleep for people suffering from insomnia. Its natural sedative effect makes it a good herb to use to reduce anxiety, especially when a person is suffering from insomnia as well.

#3 - Chamomile for anxiety

Who doesn't know that drinking chamomile tea can promote relaxation, especially for tea lovers? This herb is known to contain substances that can relax the body and reduce anxiety. Animal studies show this benefit.

What combination natural remedy is best for treating anxiety?

When looking for an effective natural product to treat anxiety, PureCalm comes to mine. It contains passionflower along with two other natural ingredients that proves helpful. It has high recommendations from people who are currently using it to manage their anxiety symptoms.

Get more information on PureCalm today

To discover other effective natural remedies, vitamins and supplements that work, see our detailed reports on Natural Supplements for Anxiety.

Get two books The Seven Best Natural Remedies for Longevity and total Health and Herbal Cures absolutely FREE when you subscribe to our newsletter at Natural Remedies Review. Don't delay.

Reference for Herbs for Anxiety

What Does CoQ10 Do?

2010-10-31T07:42:00.000-07:00

So what exactly does CoQ10 do in our body?

Also known as ubiquinone or coenzyme Q10, this vitamin-like substance is intimately involved in helping the body make energy. Energy is stored as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in our body. The mitochondria is a structure found in practically all the cells in our body and its main function is to produce ATP.

A deficiency in CoQ10 prevents the mitochondria from making this ATP molecule. Indeed, studies have revealed that people suffering from HIV/AIDS, muscle disease, heart disease, Parkinson's diabetes and certain types of cancer seem to have lower levels of CoQ10 in their body.

As you get older, your body have access to less and less coenzyme Q10. So older people can benefit from taking CoQ10.

Here is a partial list of all the health benefits of coenzyme Q10 that people take CoQ10 supplements for:

High Blood Pressure
Congestive Heart Failure
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
High Cholesterol
Migraine Headaches
Male Infertility (Low Sperm Count)
Chronic Fatigue
Parkinson's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease
Boost Athletic Performance
Muscular Dystrophy
Cancer

Looking for more detailed information on coenzyme Q10 including all the health benefits, side effects and suggested dose?

Visit Coenzyme Q10 Benefits for an unbiased review