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Tannates
have been found to have powerful antifungal properties, including against Candida
albicans. The tannates can form irreversible bonds to lipoproteins and lectins on the
surface of fungi, destroying the ability of the fungi cells to adhere to the intestinal
lining. The coating of tannate on the surface of the fungus cell eventually kills it, by
blocking fungal metabolism. They are available in a product from Scientific Consulting
Services called Tanalbit. Taurine is needed for normal
development and health of the central nervous system. Disturbances in taurine metabolism
are seen in problems as diverse as epilepsy and heart disease. A naturally occurring amino
acid not found in food proteins, taurine in the body is found concentrated especially in
the brain. Taurine functions in nerve endings as a membrane stabilizer rather than as a
neurotransmitter. It also plays an important part in bile formation and thus is important
to fat metabolism and blood cholesterol control. Japanese scientists have found that
taurine lowers blood pressure and decreases blood cholesterol levels. Taurine may also act
as an antioxidant by neutralizing hypochlorite ions and thereby decreasing localized
inflammation. Sensitivities to certain chemicals (aldehydes, some phenols, chlorine
bleach) and an impaired immune response may result from low cellular levels of
taurine.
Electrolyte mineral balance in the cells is regulated in part by taurine. |
Tribulus, anciently found in Ayurvedic and other eastern medical traditions,
has been researched in modern times by the Bulgarians. The active components of
Tribulus are steroidal saponins of the furostanol type, including Tribulus terrestris
L., as well as ashwaghandha and mucuna. It has been found to increase seminal fluid volume, sperm count,
sperm mobility, and fertility. It is said to increase sexual performance and
activity in both men and women. It stimulates male sexual prowess through a
non-hormonal pathway by supporting the body's own hormonal feedback system. Another
mode of action may involve sensitizing
hormonal receptors and increasing synthesis of cholesterol into active hormones.
The Bulgarian clinical studies have
shown impressive results, including restoration and improvement of libido, general stimulation of sexual functions, increased spermatogenesis, stimulation
of sperm cell division and maturation, and increased sperm motility and concentration.
Also noted was an increase in the endogenous level of luteinizing hormone, and
lowering of cholesterol levels. Researchers concluded that a possible protocol
was to take an average daily dose of 1.5 gm over the course of one whole germinative cycle
of the sperm (80 to 90 days in man), and to take the formula about an hour or so before
retiring, as it is during sleep that LH levels peak.
Experimental and
clinical trials have demonstrated no toxic or adverse side effects. A peripheral
effect of increased
body hair was noted. There appears to be no DHT, or estrogen aromatization involved in
this product.
Triphala is a
combination of three fruits: Amalaki, Bahira, and Haritaki. It is a highly effective, yet
gentle laxative that rejuvenates the membrane lining of the digestive tract and helps
reduce inflammation as well as support the liver.
Turmeric is a potent
anti-oxidant and hepatoprotective agent, with anti-inflammatory properties.
L-tyrosine and a related amino acid,
L-phenylalanine, are precursors on the dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine
pathway. As such, they have been found to be helpful for depression and similar low-energy
states. Although defining "depression" apart from "low-energy" can be
useful for analytical purposes, it remains true that for all practical purposes depression
and low-energy go together and are often affected by the same body-mind disciplines. For
instance, Andrew Weil, M.D., says that the most consistently successful
"natural" remedy for depression is taking a walk every single day! Many people
have benefited their energy levels and mental clarity by supplementing with
L-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, or both. In addition, L-phenylalanine has been sometimes used
successfully to help reduce appetite, as part of a weight-loss program.
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