Boswellia Benefits and Side Effects

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Boswellia serrata is an Ayurvedic plant that contains triterpenoids called boswellic acids. It is native to India and used for centuries by Ayurvedic doctors. The terpenoid portion contains the boswellic acids that have been shown to be the active constituents in boswellia.

Boswellia Benefits

Boswellia extract has been used traditionally to treat arthritis, ulcerative colitis, asthma, coughs, sores, and to correct disorders of the digestive system. Test tube research shows that boswellic acids inhibit a specific enzyme crucial in producing certain chemicals important in the process of inflammation. Also, extracts of boswellia have been studied as an aid to standard care for malignant glioma . Use of boswellia serrata appears to decrease symptoms, probably by decreasing inflammation in the brain.

Anti-Inflammatory

The most important component is boswellic acid , which was shown in animal studies to be a potent 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor with  antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory properties. In a study, involving  Triterpenes in boswellic acid reduce the synthesis of leukotrienes  in intact neutrophils by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, the key enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, which mediate inflammation. 175 bedridden patients showed good or excellent improvements, in 67% of cases, in morning stiffness, pain and ability to carry out everyday activities. Boswellia extract, while providing effective in the treatment of different chronic inflammatory conditions, produces none of the common side-effects associated with conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs  such as ibuprofen and Voltaren.

Asthma

Asthma is a lung disorder in which spasms and inflammation of the bronchial passages restrict the flow of air in and out of the lungs. Boswellia serrata may reduce the number of asthma attacks. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, the use of 300 mg of boswellia serrata 3 times daily led to a positive impact in signs and symptoms of asthma, including a reduction in asthma attacks. Seventy percent of the asthma patients showed improvement in symptoms and lung function and a decrease in allergic blood cells.

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

BoswelliaBoswellia serrata appears to reduce the inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, painful intestinal disorders. Randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind experiment, patients with Crohn’s disease were treated with 2 oral capsules of 400 mg Boswellia serrata or placebo three times daily for 12 months. At the end of the study, found that 59% of the Boswellia-treated and 55% of the placebo-treated patients maintained remission from Crohn’s disease, indicating no statistically significant difference in efficacy between the active and control groups.

Ulcerative colitis  is a form of colitis, a disease of the intestine, specifically the large intestine or colon, that includes characteristic ulcers, or open sores, in the colon. Leukotrienes are believed to play a role in the inflammatory process of ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever,ulcerations in the colon, loss of appetite, and mucus in the stool. In one study of 20 patients in which Boswellia, 300 mg 3 times a day, was given for 6 weeks, 14 went into remission, while with sulfasalazine, the remission rate was 4 out of 10.The results of this study indicate that Boswellia serrata  may be as successful in treatment of ulcerative colitis as standard therapy.

Cancer

Boswellic acids induce antiproliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in leukemia cell lines. They exert cytotoxic effects on established human glioblastoma and leukemia cell lines, as well as on primary human meningioma cells. Boswellia serrata have been shown to be both cytotoxic to glioma cells and anti-proliferative in a dose-dependent manner during studies with rats. Boswellic acid has been found to display antitumor activity in cervical, bladder, and other cancer cell lines as well as anti-inflammatory activity. Boswellia serrata may also reduce fluid retention associated with brain tumours. This fluid build-up is associated with the action of certain inflammatory chemicals. Boswellia inhibits the production of these chemicals. In a study, 44 patients who is from cerebral tumors were either given radiotherapy with 4,200 mg per day of boswellia  or a placebo. Sixty percent of those who received the radiotherapy and the boswellia serrata found more than a 75 percent reduction in their cerebral edema. Research results published in the February 2011 issue of Cancer. At the university hospitals of Bochum and Giessen, patients with gliome tumors were administered 3600 mg Boswellia. Within  a few days, many symptoms associated with brain tumors,  were greatly lessened. In a study of  25 patients were administered a  extract of boswellia  for one week and the tumors were then surgically removed. About half the patients had such significant regressions that the tumors had all but disappeared. This study was conducted by neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Winking.

Boswellia Dosage

Extracts are typically standardized to contain 37.5–65% boswellic acids. The dose of boswellia is 300 to 400 mg 3 times a day of an extract standardized to contain 37.5% boswellic acids.

For asthma, 300 milligrams three times  of boswellia extract.

For rheumatoid arthritis, 400 milligrams three times daily of standardized boswellia extract.

For Crohn’s disease, 1,200 milligrams three times daily of standardized boswellia extract.

For ulcerative colitis, 350 milligrams three times daily  of standardized boswellia extract.

Boswellia Side Effects

Side effects from  are rare. Side effects of boswellic acids include abdominal discomfort nausea, epigastric pain, hyperacidity and diarrhea. Unlike pharmaceutical corticosteroids which inhibit leukotriene synthesis,  boswellia exhibit no significant side effects or toxicity. In clinical trials of pharmaceutical grade standardized boswellia serrata extract, no serious side effects have been reported.

Wheatgrass Powder Benefits and Cancer Facts

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Wheatgrass is the young grass of the wheat plant, Triticum aestivum. Chlorophyll, which makes up over 70% of the solid content of wheatgrass juiceis the basis of all plant life. Wheatgrass juice is often called the “Liquid Sunshine” because of its very high content of chlorophyll. Wheatgrass is available as a powder, fresh produce, in tablet form and as a juice concentrate.

Wheatgrass Powder Benefits

Wheatgrass juice contains 70% crude chlorophyll. The chlorophyll molecule is very similar in structure to the haemoglobin molecule, the oxygen carrier in our blood. Wheatgrass juice is an excellent blood tonic, increasing the haemoglobin content of the blood and improving oxygen transport, it is thus helpful with people suffering anaemia. According to the Hippocrates Health Institute, wheatgrass increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure. The red cell count has returned to normal within 4 to 5 days of the administration of chlorophyll, even in those animals that were known to be extremely anemic or low in red blood cell count.

Studies of wheatgrasss juice indicate it may help reduce symptoms of distal ulcerative colitis, reduce the need for transfusions in patients with thalassemia major and may decrease myelotoxicity in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. A small clinical trial involving twenty-one patients with distal ulcerative colitis showed that wheatgrass can reduce the symptoms associated with the disease. The Scandavian Journal of Gastroenterology in 2002 published a study showing that wheatgrass can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. One study was done on children with Thalassemia, a genetic form of anemia, who require regular blood transfusions. After taking 100 ml of wheatgrass juice daily for a year, half of the patients only needed 75% of the amount of blood they used to get in order to stay well. A 2007 study published in Nutrition and Cancer found that patients undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer had lower myelotoxicity and reduced need for medications to stimulate white blood cell production.

Science has proven that chlorophyll arrests growth and development of unfriendly bacteria. In the American Journal of Surgery , Benjamin Gruskin, MD recommends chlorophyll for its antiseptic benefits. Though it does not destroy bacteria directly, wheatgrass consumption creates an unfavorable environment for germs, according to The Wheatgrass Juicer. Wheatgrass creates an alkaline environment which is not in favor of bacterial growth and yeast.

Wheatgrass is a natural source of vitamins and minerals. Wheatgrass is a great source of beta carotene, contains most of the B vitamins and vitamins C, E and K and also contains over 90 different minerals and 19 amino acids. Wheat grass also contains superoxide dismutase, a substance used by the body as part of its natural antioxidant defense system. Researchers have confirmed that this enzyme can lessen cellular decay or aging and prevent cellular damage caused by stress, heart attacks and pollutants.

One of wheatgrass benefits is that it has shown to improve liver functioning. Chlorophyll oxygenates the blood and organ tissue, impedes the growth of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract, neutralizes toxins and helps purify the liver. Dr. Wescott reported that when chlorophyll is taken internally in adequate quantities, it reduces or eliminates offensive body and breath odors.

Wheatgrass Juice is a superior detoxification agent compared to carrot juice and other fruits and vegetables. Wheatgrass cleanses, purifies and feeds the body by activating the white blood cells, which boost the body’s immune system.

Recent studies show that wheatgrass juice has a powerful ability to fight tumors without the usual toxicity of drugs that also inhibit cell-destroying agents. Wheatgrass juice contains natural enzymes, which help the bodies defence mechanism by strengthening cells and removing poisons from the blood stream.

Wheatgrass juice protects the lungs and blood from water and air pollution, toxins, cigarette smoke and heavy metals. The many detergent factors of wheatgrass juice will drain the lymph system, which carries away many toxins from body cells. Chlorophyll will bring toxins stored away in cells or fatty tissues into the bloodstream.

How to Use Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass can be served juiced or made into a powder. Dosage:  1 to 4 oz daily. Therapeutic dosage 4 to 8 oz daily. For transfusion dependent beta thalassemia or ulcerative colitis, 100 milliliters of wheatgrass juice daily has been found effective. The suggested serving of powder is 1 to 3 tbsp. Tablet dosage for adults; 5-15 tablets daily (500mg). Wheatgrass juice does not combine well with other foods and should always be taken on an empty stomach.

Wheatgrass Side Effects and Dangers

People who are allergic to wheat should not take wheatgrass as a supplement. Many reported wheatgrass  side effects have been linked to contamination of soil constituents.

Schizandra Benefits and Side Effects

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Schisandra chinensis a small red fruit from a large bush that is native to China. The schizandra fruit tastes a bit salty, bitter, sweet, hot, and sour. Because of the mixture of tastes, the Chinese named the fruit wu wei zi which means five taste fruit. Schisandra contains a wide variety of biologically active compounds, which, working in syntony, create its medicinal effects.

Schizandra Benefits

Schizandra has been used to increase the body’s resistance to stress, increase stamina, stimulate the immune system, and decrease fatigue. Active ingredients including lignans, vitamins and phytonutrients in Schisandra chinensis provide a normalizing effect on the body. As documented by the Health Sciences Institute, schizandra raises the body’s amount of the enzyme glutathione. Enhanced glutathione production enabling healthy cell growth, balance and energy production.

Adaptogenic

Schizandra demonstrates significant adaptogenic activity. Research in the late 1940s by Russian scientists confirmed that schizandra berries is an adaptogen. By bringing a balance or a homeostatis to the organs the use of Schizandra is responsible for a harmonious condition to spread in the body. Schizandra may help to reduce fatigue, improve endurance, improve work performance, and build strength. Schizandra is promoted for its stimulating effects on the nervous system without being excitatory like amphetamine or caffeine. In Russia it has been used for increasing attention, concentration, coordination, endurance, and strength. Schizandra, a remedy that reduces the effect of stress on the body by reducing the production of stress hormones from the adrenal glands. A recent study concluded that Schizandra may be a useful herb to help reverse depression, particularly that due to adrenal exhaustion.

Antioxidant

Schizandra protects against free radical damage. Increases the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase. Provide powerful antioxidant protection,  from free radicals and other toxins in the environment that may cause cellular damage. Recent studies have shown that it is a potent antioxidant that exerts a beneficial effect on the mitochondria—the powerhouse within every cell.

Liver

Schizandra has been shown to strengthen and protect the liver. Laboratory studies have demonstrated its ability to make the enzyme, glutathione peroxidase, which deactivates several kinds of toxic free radicals that attack the outer membranes of liver cells. It protects liver cells from oxidative damage and raises the capacity of liver to deal with drugs and their harmful metabolites during first pass metabolism. Schizandra uses its fat soluble compounds found in the core of its seed to protect the liver from toxins. In 1986, Chinese researchers reported more than 5,000 cases of various types of hepatitis have been treated with Schizandra  preparations, resulting in the reduction of elevated liver enzymes. Lignans have been found to lower blood levels of serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), a marker for infective hepatitis and other liver disorders. According to researchers, elevated SGPT values returned to normal in 75 percent of patients treated after 20 days of taking an unspecified Schizandra preparation. Japanese scientists have shown that two Schizandra lignans have powerful hepato-protective effects, even against compounds as toxic as carbon tetrachloride.

Brain

Schizandra is  brain tonic that helps in increasing the brain capacity. Researchers at the Department of Pharmacology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, found that two lignans in schizandra inhibit the swelling and disintegration of brain mitochondria, reducing the possibility of brain damage from stroke and aging. A study published in 2009 in of the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy found that schisandra helped improve energy metabolism in the brain after clinically induced cerebral ischemia.

Aphrodisiac

For both men and women, schizandra is considered an aphrodisiac. Schizandra affects men by stimulating semen production, boosting libido, extending erection time and preventing premature ejaculation.  Many women claim increased genital warmth and sensation after using Schizandra for a period of time.

Schizandra Dosage

Take  300-900 mg of standardized extract or 1-6 grams of Schizandra berries 2 times a day. The tincture of Schizandra is also available, take in the amount of 2-4 ml thrice daily. Tea: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the bark and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes.

Schizandra Side Effects

Schizandra is generally safe in recommended doses. But may cause appetite loss and mild stomach upset. Schizandra in larger amounts should be avoided by persons with peptic ulcers or epilepsy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take Schizandra, as it may induce uterine muscle contractions.

Propolis Benefits and Cancer

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Bee Propolis, is a sticky resin that seeps from the buds of some trees and oozes from the bark of other trees, chiefly conifers. The chemical composition of propolis depends on the type of plants accessible to the bees. Approximately 200 different compounds have been identified so far in propolis. Flavonoids are abundant, including apigenin, kaempferol, galangin, luteolin, quercetin, pinocembrin and pinostrobin. The composition of the propolis depends on the botanical ecology of each area and can still suffer influence of the genetic variety of the queens.

Propolis Benefits

General medicinal uses of propolis include treatment of the cardiovascular and blood systems, dental care, dermatology, immune system support and improvement, cancer, digestive tracts, liver protection and support and many others.

Antibiotic

Preliminary studies suggest  may be active against viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms when applied topically. Bee propolis has been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to chemical antibiotics. The concentrations of flavonoids seem to be responsible for the important antibiotic effects. bee propolis has the ability to directly destroy  bacteria, viruses, fungi and penicillin-resistant staphylococcus. Australian scientists, showed that propolis increases the effectiveness of penicillin or other antibiotics from 10 to 100 folds. Used as mouthwash, it may reduce bacteria in the mouth, reduce the formation of plaque and relieve dental pain and gum inflammation.

Herpes

Herpes, is the name of a group of viruses that cause painful blisters and sores. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses. Type 2 (HSV-2 ) causes genital herpes, while Type 1 (HSV-1) causes cold sores and sometimes genital herpes. Genital herpes affects the genitals or anal area. Oral herpes causes cold sores around the mouth or face. Drugs including Famvir, Valtrex and Zovirax, are among the medications used to treat the symptoms of herpes. Test tube studies show it can stop HSV-2  and HSV-1 from reproducing. Applying a 3% propolis cream might improve healing of recurrent genital lesions caused by herpes simplex virus type 2. In a study, 90 men and women  with recurrent genital HSV2 were divided into 2 groups to compare the healing ability of propolis ointment versus acyclovir ointment and placebo. After 10 days, 80 % of patients in the propolis group had healed versus 47 % in the acyclovir group and 40 % in the placebo group. The topical  propolis cream has produced better results than Zovirax cream, a medication usually prescribed to treat genital herpes outbreaks.

Ulcers

In a study 34 patients with chronic ulcers were given extracts of propolis daily for 2 weeks. The results were impressive, with 28 patients completely improvement and 6 cases dramatically improving. In a study involving 294 patients; found that 90% of 108 ulcer patients given propolis were free of symptoms after 2 weeks, compared to only 55% of 186 standard treated patients.

Burns

Studies indicate that it may be effective in treating skin burns. Ointments made of propolis are as effective as the medically prescribed burn creams. Research finds, comparable to silver sulfadiazine in treating second-degree burns. Propolis has been shown to stimulate different enzyme systems, cell metabolism, circulation and collagen formation, as well as improve the healing of burn wounds.

Warts

Common warts are local growths in the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus infection. The virus causes keratin, a hard protein in the epidermis to grow too fast. Are usually found singly or in clusters in your skin. As reported in the International Journal of Dermatology in November of 2009, scientists identified that propolis shows strong activity against warts. In a 3-month study, 135 patients with different types of warts received oral propolis, echinacea, or placebo. In patients with common warts treated with propolis, cure was achieved in 75% and 73% of patients, respectively. The scientists conclude that propolis is an effective and safe immunomodulating therapy for common warts.

Antiinflammatory

CAPE (Caffeic acid phenethyl ester), an active component of propolis, has been proven to have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. There are reports in the literature, of the usage with success, of ethanolic extracts of propolis in lab studies. It was also observed that caffeic acid phenyl ester are strong LOX inhibitors, suppressing leukotriene production by peritoneal macrophages. In several models in vitro, propolis presented an inhibition of the plaquetary aggregation and of the eicosanoid synthesis, suggesting that it possesses a powerful anti-inflammatory activity.

Immune System

Propolis enhances the immune system. There are two effect of propolis. Seem to inhibit cellular growth.  Also, they can increase the  presence of certain white immune cells like T-lymphocytes, increasing hydrogen peroxide production without any simultaneous and  damaging nitrite  production, which usually occurs with macrophage activity. In a article published in 2007 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, reported that propolis increased the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells and the production of antibodies. Another way in which propolis aids the immune system is its ability to strengthen phagocyte feature. Phagocytes are the white blood cells that protect the body by ingesting  harmful foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells.

Cancer

Since bee propolis contains anti-cancer ingredients caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and artepillin C, both of which block the oncogenic PAK1 signaling pathways, its possible therapeutic effects on NF tumors were explored in vivo. The PAK 1 is understood to be responsible for the activation of molecules fostering cellular division, the survival of cancer cells, the invasion of the body by the tumor and the development of blood vessels within the tumor. The compound caffeic acid phenethyl ester found in propolis is the important cancer-suppressing ingredient. This compound was found to induce apoptosis of human pancreatic cancer cells and colon cancer cells. İnhibited the growth of C6 glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. Where CAPE (Caffeic acid phenethyl ester) was taken orally by mice with lung tumours, a reduction of tumour size of 50 % was noted.  In a study conducted in Germany, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) repressed the growth of neurofibromatosis tumors in laboratory. Artepillin C ;  has been isolated from propolis and has been shown to have cytotoxic effect on human lung cancer cells, human gastric carcinoma cells and mouse colon carcinoma cells in vitro. In a survey conducted in 2007 observed a significant  reduction in the emergence of new blood vessels within the tumor in mice treated orally with Artepillin C. Shown that intratumoral injections of 500 mgs of Artepillin C produced apoptosis and an increase in immune defenses. More than 70% of cancers are PAK1 dependant and Artepillin C appears to be a very  strong blocking agent of PAK1.

Propolis Dosage

The recommended dosage is 500 mg once or twice each day. For herpes : A 3% propolis cream applied to the blisters 4 times daily. dental health; A dose of 10 milliliters of 0.2% to 10% propolis ethanol extract mouthwash  has been used once or twice daily for dental plaque.

Propolis Side Effects

Reports of irritation in and around the mouth have occurred after use of propolis lozenges or extract taken by mouth. In some people, use of propolis also can lead to to side effects, such as swelling, fluid collection, redness, burning and fever. Anaphylactic shock might occur to those with extreme allergies.

Food with Magnesium

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The main task of magnesium is enzyme activation. Is required to make more than 300 different enzymes and to send messages along the nerves. The cell mitochondria require magnesium in order to synthesize adenosine triphosphate, the all-important molecule that provides energy for metabolic functions. Other proteins, like those required to produce  RNA and DNA , are also magnesium-dependent. The metabolism of fats and carbohydrates to produce energy requires numerous magnesium-dependent chemical reactions. This mineral is often called the anti-stress mineral because it has a calming effect when taken. Is important for normal heartbeat and nerve transmission. Magnesium is required for the active transport of ions like  calcium and potassium across cell membranes. Therefore, magnesium affects the conduction of nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and normal heart rhythm. Magnesium helps signal muscles to contract and relax. Helps maintain normal levels of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, adrenaline and insulin, and keeps the bones strong and the heart healthy.

The human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium. Approximately 50 percent of total magnesium is found in bone. The other half is predominantly found in the cells of body tissues and organs. Only 1 percent of magnesium is found in blood. This magnesium concentration must be kept at a constant level to keep your body functioning properly. The normal blood levels for magnesium ranges from 1.5  to 2.5 mEq/L. The RDA for magnesium is about 310 mg per day for women and 420 mg per day for men.

Causes of Magnesium Deficiency

Several gastrointestinal diseases, pancreatitis, diabetes, hyperthyroidism and kidney disease can lead to magnesium deficiency. Some drugs may result in magnesium, deficiency including  diuretics, antibiotics, and medications used to treat cancer. Excessive salt, coffee, or alcohol, as well as heavy menstrual periods, over sweating, and prolonged stress can also lower magnesium levels.

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

Insomnia, weakness, loss of appetite, irritability, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, nail growth, muscle spasm, restless leg syndrome and poor coordination. Important magnesium deficiency can result in low levels of calcium in the blood.

Food with Magnesium

High Magnesium Foods List; Green leafy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, almonds, squash seeds, pine nuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax seeds, raisins, molasses, oysters, halibut, dairy products, tofu, brown rice, lima beans, split peas, lentils, black-eyed peas, bean sprouts, wheat and oat bran, spinach, lettuce, beet greens, broccoli. Other good dietary sources of this mineral; oatmeal and oat flour, soybean flour, bananas, avocados, figs, baked potatoes with skin, cocoa powder, chocolate, kelp. Because magnesium is part of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, green leafy vegetables are rich in this mineral. Unrefined grains also have high magnesium content. Nearly 85% of the magnesium is lost when whole grains are refined to white flour. Harder water usually has a higher concentration of magnesium salts. Supplemental forms of magnesium are available as magnesium gluconate, magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and magnesium citrate salts, as well as a number of amino acid chelates, including magnesium aspartate.

Magnesium Research

Scientific researchs indicate that supplementing with magnesium may help prevent asthma, migraine, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Asthma

Asthma is a disease where the bronchial passages go into spasm and interfere with normal breathing. Magnesium sulfate is used as a therapy for asthma. A study from Brown University showed pronounced improvement in children with asthma who were treated with intravenous magnesium. Effects of magnesium include relaxing the airways, acting as a bronchodilator for asthma.

Migraine

Individuals who suffer from recurrent migraine headaches have lower intracellular magnesium levels than patients who do not experience migraines. Magnesium was found to reduce the frequency, intensity and length of migraines or headaches in many studies. 200 mg to 600 mg daily is  used to help prevent migraine headaches. Magnesium and Migraines

Preeclampsia-Eclampsia

Magnesium, given in the hospital intravenously, is the therapy of effective to prevent or treat seizures associated with eclampsia or to prevent complications from preeclampsia. Preeclampsia-eclampsia is a disease that is unique to pregnancy and may occur anytime after 20 weeks of pregnancy through 6 weeks following birth.

Kidney Stones

When combined with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) it helps to reduce and dissolve calcium phosphate stones. Jonathan Wright, recommends  100 milligrams of vitamin B6, and 300 milligrams of magnesium citrate, daily.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Intravenous magnesium application has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality in thombolysis-ineligible patients with acute myocardial infarction. Magnesium helps maintain a normal heart rhythm and is sometimes given intravenously to reduce the chance of atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia. Intravenous magnesium, when given as soon as possible after a heart attack, decreases death rate.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is one of the major vascular disorders that magnesium can help. High blood pressure,defined as having a systolic and diastolic blood pressure  greater than 140 and 90 mmHg, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Magnesium is an essential micronutrient in maintaining suppleness in the walls of blood vessels. In twelve randomized controlled trials, patients receiving magnesium supplements did not have a significantly reduction in systolic blood pressure. However they had a significant reduction in their diastolic blood pressure.

Diabetes

Inadequate blood levels of magnesium may prohibit the release of insulin from the pancreas. Therefore, regulation of blood glucose levels is disrupted and blood glucose rises abnormally. Magnesium supplementation may help diabetics to maintain adequate magnesium levels as well as improve glucose tolerance. Studies have shown that for every 100 mg of magnesium, the risks of diabetes is reduced by 15 percent. Magnesium supplementation may help overweight individuals who have become insulin resistant improve their condition and avoid type 2 diabetes, according to a  study from German researchers.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by weak bones. Magnesium, along with calcium and Vitamin D can prevent the development of osteoporosis. Since magnesium works closely with calcium, it is necessary  to have an appropriate level of both minerals in order for them to be effective. If you take 1000 mg of calcium, you should also take 500 mg of magnesium. This is to be taken in two divided doses with Vitamin D 400 IU with each Calcium dose, this helps absorption of both magnesium and calcium. Thirty-one woman suffering from osteoporosis with documented deficiency in magnesium were given a magnesium supplement. After 1 year 71 % of the  patients had increased bone density by up to 8 percent, and the improvement remained unchanged for 2 years.

Sleep Problems

Magnesium works in combination with the calcium to help our muscles relax and in this way allows us to have a better night’s sleep. Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. In addition, magnesium suppresses the release of catecholamines, which stimulate activity in the sympathetic nerves. Studies show a lack of magnesium can alter electrical activity in the brain, causing agitated sleep and frequent awakenings. A article published  in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine confirms the effects of magnesium deficiency on insomnia. Important to note that a balanced ratio of magnesium and calcium is important to overall health, and these two minerals should be taken together for best effects.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders. The exact cause is unknown. However inherited genetic factors are likely responsible. In addition to genetics, scientists are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may have three basic problems, they can’t pay attention, they are hyperactive, they act on impulse. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have low magnesium levels than the average child.In one trial, 50 ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) children with low magnesium were given 200 mg of magnesium a day for nearly 6 months. When compared with 25 other magnesium-deficient ADHD children, those that were given magnesium supplementation appeared to experience a decrease in hyperactive behavior. In one  study of 75 magnesium-deficient children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, those who received magnesium supplements showed an improvement in behavior compared to those who did not receive the supplements. Russian doctors used a combination of  magnesium and  vitamin B6 to treat children aged from 6 to 12 with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Vitamin B6 in the appropriate dose helps determine how much magnesium absorbs into cells.