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Archive click HERE to see past issues NUTRACEUTICALS What do we actually mean we by the term “nutraceuticals”? It’s been my experience that when the term comes up, no one really has a clear-cut definition. A vague answer arises that they are natural substances and /or vitamins that have particular indications. Who thought up the term nutraceutical? Did it already exist before Health Canada recognized it and used it to make some new rules? Based on well funded research happening now, the term nutraceutical is going to have a very definite meaning that will make all of us in the natural health community go “What the..?” Presently there are biotech firms that are genetically modifying plants and herbs to increase the amount of active ingredients each are capable of producing. They are also to modifying the organism in such a way as to make these actives easier to extract. In some capacity, a corporation may be able to patent an herb, a plant or even a tree. Under what classification will these “things” come under? Nutraceuticals. SEX AND TRIBULUS How do I turn this stuff off?” came the jubilant “complaint” from a happy patient. “Don’t..umm..worry sir. Discontinue use or reduce the dosage.” the doctor advised not knowing whether or not the patient was really concerned. “I’ll have to double check with my wife. Thanks!” Yes, Tribulus Terrestris (also known as Puncture Vine) is effective for restoring and/or enhancing an elusive libido. The above conversation did actually happen. Tribulus Terrestris promotes testosterone levels by stimulating the pituitary to increase the excretion of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). LH activates testosterone. Studies show that the increased production of LH may also be the reason why Tribulus Terrestris has been used to enhance fertility. This compound is extremely rich in saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids and other nutrients. DHEA and androstenedione, like Tribulus Terrestris, also enhance testosterone levels. However, they function to provide the raw materials for the hormone. Until recently, it has been the Bulgarian and Balkan countries that have used Tribulus Terrestris for the treatment of infertility and lack of libido. It has been studied extensively by scientists at the Chemical Pharmaceutical Institute in Sofia, Bulgaria. Their studies, going back two decades, offer the most compelling data available. Until the publication of the Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas (Vol.1) by Dr. Him-che Yeung in 1983 and the Chemical Constituents of Oriental Herbs by Hsu, Chen and Hong in 1985, little was known about this plant in North America, other than by small group of scientists, herbalists and doctors trained in Oriental and Ayurvedic medicine. Tribulus Terrestris is extremely safe to use but is not recommended for women who are pregnant, lactating or menopausal. For more information or to order Tribulus Terrestris, please feel free to call our office. HAPPY HOLIDAYS! I would like to take this opportunity to Thank You for your business this year and for the trust you have placed in Integra Nutrition to help you provide the best care for the most important people in the world, your patients. Along with the staff at Integra Nutrition, I wish you the best for the Holiday Season and a prosperous and happy New Year. |