Herbal & homeopathic remedies to counter the effects of aging

Aging
HEALTH HERBS & NUTRITION - REMEDIES - AGING

· General Description · Symptoms · Causes · Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies · Helpful Dietary Habits · Dos and Don'ts

As you advance in years and you are in the range of 50-60, you begin to feel that you are getting old, the body is getting debilitated. Old age is usually a difficult stage of life. You wonder how old age will affect you. Life becomes insipid as strange thoughts occupy your mind. The United States is on the brink of a longevity revolution. By 2030, the proportion of the U.S. population aged 65 and older will double to about 71 million older adults, or one in every five Americans. The far-reaching implications of the increasing number of older Americans and their growing diversity will include unprecedented demands on public health, aging services, and the nation’s health care system. What is old age? Old age is a natural stage in everybody’s life. After you have lived a long life, wrinkles appear on the skin, it becomes dry, joints becomes weak, the body becomes stiff and it is difficult to keep the back straight; teeth fall off, the hair turn grey and sometimes are literally gone from your head, eyesight becomes weak, knee joints develop pain, bladder control is difficult, arteries are clogged with cholesterol, prostate is enlarged and the presence of excess alkali in the body, are indications of old age. Old is not measured or known by years. Sometimes a young man spoils his body and is in a worse state than an old man and has less stamina than him. On the other hand, an old man may be more active and agile than a young man. A man is old by his thoughts and not by his body. In old age a man loses all aspirations, is tired all the time, feels debilitated and food seems tasteless, it provides no pleasure. He is pestered day and night by cough and phlegmatic congestion. The definition of old age given above is common knowledge.

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Aging skin – wrinkles, acne rosacea, age spots on the face and hands, transparent skin, dehydrated (flaky) skin, dry skin, flabby & itchy skin Wrinkles, bags under the eyes – Creases of varying depths in the skin, bags under the eyes (puffy, darkened skin below the eyes) Insomnia Blood, heart and circulatory problems Deterioration associated with the brain and nervous system and memory loss, mental fatigue and slowing down of psychomotor skills Breathing difficulties, chronic coughs, frequent mouth infections Deterioration of kidney function Various eye ailments like cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, weak eyesight etc. Reduction of muscular mass and osteoporosis Reduced resistance to cold Fear of confronting new situations, irritability

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As we grow, there is an accumulation of acidity and toxic matter in the body. These are enemies of health and give birth to disease-causing germs in the body. Aging is a natural process, which begins to take effect as soon as we reach adulthood and stop growing. It is causes largely by the progressive degeneration of the non-renewable tissues throughout the body and usually becomes more noticeable after the age of 60. Disorders associated with aging are a result of general wear and tear on the body, the aging of tissues as cellular proteins break down, and a gradual decrease in general metabolic rate. Oxidative stress Although we may not realize it, on a cellular level, oxidization occurs and ultimately leads to aging. Most scientists will agree that free radicals often injure cells and lead to aging. Both smoking and excessive drinking deplete the body’s stores of vital nutrients as well as stimulating the production of these harmful free radicals. The unstable atoms or molecules known as free radicals are produced by the body as a consequence of its normal metabolism, and as part of its natural defense against disease. Sometimes, however, the body over-reacts, increasing its free radical production and releasing more of the unstable atoms or molecules than it needs. Factors other than smoking and drinking that can spark their overproduction include smog, overexposure to ultraviolet light, illness and even intense exercise.

Free radicals contain at least one unpaired electron (or negative charge), making them highly reactive. As soon as they are produced, they search for other molecules with a positive charge with which they can react – this reaction is called oxidation. Free radicals can oxidize – and so damage – DNA and cell membranes, opening the way for cancers and diseases to develop. The body has defense mechanisms against free radicals – ANTIOXIDANT enzymes and nutrients in the blood serve to ‘mop up’ free radicals and render them harmless. Protective nutrients include iron, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium (which help to make up protective antioxidant enzymes) as well as vitamins A, C and E. Beta Carotene & some bioflavonoids also provide protection against oxidation. Whichever part of the body receives the most free radical damage is the first to wear out and potentially develop degenerative disease. If it is your eyes, you could develop macular degeneration or cataracts. If it is your blood vessels, you could have a heart attack or a stroke. If it is your joint space, you could develop arthritis. If it is your brain, you could develop Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. This oxidative stress is the underlying cause of almost all of these chronic degenerative diseases.

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Fortunately Mother Nature has equipped us with the tools to help slow down the process! The way you age is greatly determined by the way you live, and the amount of care you give your body! Herbal and homeopathic remedies have been used for centuries to nourish on a cellular level and promote vitality and vigor. A number of natural ingredients have been studied for their ability to support organs in the body – and thus discourage age-related complaints. One such ingredient is Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) – an all round supportive tonic, and has powerful anti-oxidant properties, fighting free radicals due to its superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic properties. Grapeseed extract is a potent source of proanthocyanidins, or pycnogenols containing naturally occurring proanthocyanidins – a natural and powerful Antioxidant. Proanthocyanidins also have an affinity for cell membranes, providing support to reduce capillary permeability and fragility.

Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) is an herb found only on the slopes of the Cedarberg mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa, and has been used as a natural medicine for thousands of years by the indigenous people of that area. It is used as supportive tonic and has powerful anti-oxidant properties, mainly due to its superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic properties. SOD is an enzyme in the body that is especially designed to neutralize unstable oxygen molecules (free radicals) as soon as they occur, and systemic SOD can therefore help to promote health. Due to its high vitamin and mineral content, Rooibos can promote healthy cell metabolism. These minerals can also be beneficial as a promotional tonic for the immune system. Grape seed extract is a potent source of proanthocyanidins or pycnogenols containing naturally occurring proanthocyanidins, a naturally powerful antioxidant. Proanthocyanidins also have an affinity for cell membranes, providing nutritional support to reduce capillary permeability and fragility. The way in which these versatile compounds are distinct from flavonoids is their simple chemical structure, which allows them to be readily absorbed into the bloodstream. Vitamin E defends against fat-soluble oxidants and vitamin C neutralizes water-soluble ones, but OPC’s are active against both types. Grape seed extract has also been studied for its promotion of skin cell renewal. Grape seed extract has also been investigated for its affect on free radicals and thus its promotion of health. Camellia sinensis (Green tea) is the tea plant, the plant species whose leaves and leaf buds are used to produce tea. White tea, green tea, oolong and black tea are all harvested from this species, but are processed differently to attain different levels of oxidation. Green tea contains high levels of substances called catechin polyphenols, known to possess strong antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antitumorigenic, and even antibiotic properties. Panax ginseng - Ginseng is said to promote Yang energy and is characterized by the presence of ginsenosides. Ginsenosides have been studied for their numerous health-promoting abilities. In recent times, Panax ginseng has been shown to encourage general well-being, as well as support the cardiovascular system and help sustain hormonal balance. Schisandra chinensis have berries of sweet, sour, hot, salty and bitter tastes. Constituents of schisandra include acids, phytosterols, vitamins C and E, volatile oils and lignans. Modern Chinese research suggests these lignans have a supportive effect on the liver and an immunomodulating effect.

While aging is inevitable, physical decrepitude is not. Many of the outward signs of growing old can be slowed – and life can be prolonged – by maintaining a sensible approach to diet.

Elderly people may be poorly nourished for several reasons. They may have difficulty chewing, and as the body ages it no longer digests or absorbs food so easily. Those living on their own do not always bother to prepare nutritious meals. And, as time blunts the senses of smell and taste, so the appetite fades.   Make meals colorful and avoid slipping into preparing repetitive ‘easy meals’. Attractive and varied food can revitalize a jaded appetite.   Remember, although as the age slows down physical activity and the energy requirement of your body comes down, the need for the nutrients for repair and regeneration does not. In fact, the body’s demand for vitamins and minerals actually increases with age.   Elderly people, worried about bladder control, may drink too little, but their need for fluid is much the same as in youth, and the risk of dehydration is as high. Sipping 6-8 glasses of water a day should be sufficient.   A reduces intake of vitamins B6, B12, D and folate, and of the minerals calcium, magnesium and zinc, is particularly common among the elderly. When the body’s levels of these nutrients fall below the required daily level, health will almost certainly suffer

Nutritional needs for elderly people Carbohydrates & Starches Whole grains, such as barley, brown rice and wholemeal bread, provide vitamin B6, folate and other nutrients, along with insoluble fiber – which is essential for preventing constipation. Porridge made with milk, or fortified breakfast cereals, provide a simple, easily prepared and nutritious start to the day. Vegetables Dark grebe leafy vegetables such as cabbage, kale and spinach are inexpensive, easy to cook and provide many important nutrients, including beta carotene, vitamins B6, E and folate, as well as calcium, iron and magnesium. Root vegetables such as potatoes, turnips and parsnips are filling, cheap and also provide carbohydrate, fiber and vitamin C. Meat & Poultry Offal, such as liver and kidneys, ia an inexpensive and concentrated source of protein. Like all other meats, it supplies vitamins A, B12, E, D, thiamin and folate, as well as iron and zinc. Poultry is particularly useful; the meat is an excellent source of easily digested protein, and the carcass can be boiled up to make a stock for soup. Dairy produce Milk, cheese and yoghurt are inexpensive sources of complete protein. They contain the vitamins A, B12, folate, riboflavin and niacin, and provide calcium (vital for bone mass). Use about 250ml of milk per day, on breakfast cereals or in drinks. You may also have about 250g cheese per week unless you have high blood pressure or raised cholesterol levels. FRUIT Citrus fruit, strawberries and tomatoes all provide valuable vitamin C. Apples and pears contain useful soluble fiber, which helps to lower blood cholesterol levels. Bananas are a good source of potassium and carbohydrate. Eat plenty of fruit, ensuring a joint fruit and vegetable intake of at least 5 servings daily. Eat plenty of red fruit (bilberries, redcurrants, blackberries, raspberries) and fruit containing vitamin C (oranges, clementines, lemons, mangoes, kiwi fruit). Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, calcium and iron. EGGS Easy to cook, eat and digest, eggs are an excellent and inexpensive source of complete protein. They also provide vitamins A and D. However, because they also contain high levels of cholesterol, it is probably best not to eat more than 3 or 4 eggs a week. FISH All fish provide high-grade protein and B vitamins. Oily fish, such as mackerel and herring, are inexpensive and provide essential fatty acids, vitamin A and D. Tinned oily fish such as salmon and sardines offer most of the benefits of fresh oily fish with the added bonus of edible bones which are a good source of calcium. DREID BEANS, PEAS & LENTILS Pulses, a cheap source of protein, are best eaten with grain foods, such as bread, rice or pasta, which provide the essential amino acids to complete the chain of protein in pulses. Pulses are a good source of most B vitamins and fiber (both insoluble – needed to prevent constipation – and soluble, which may lower blood cholesterol levels). Baked beans on wholemeal toast provide a hot, nourishing meal.

Decrease your weight - Because excess weight can creep up as result of slowed metabolism and decreased energy needs, older people should exercise regularly. It also promotes good circulation. Obesity poses an even greater risk in later life than it does in youth.   To ward of old age it is essential to get up early in the morning before sunrise and take exercise or go for a walk. Breathe fresh air in the morning sun. Tiredness comes due to lack of exercise.   Sitting idle is an invitation to illnesses. Keep yourself mentally & physically occupied. Cultivate some hobbies and have faith in religion. For a few days every now and then, go for an outing for relaxation or go to a religious or holy place.   The benefits of a moderate alcohol intake, and of giving up smoking, should not be underestimated. As stated earlier, both smoking and excessive drinking deplete the body’s stores of vital nutrients as well as stimulating the production of these harmful free radicals.   Try to reduce your stress levels through relaxation and other techniques. Stress can have an adverse effect on the liver and the digestive system.   Avoid medicines – Medicines do not root out the disease. A disease is in fact not cured because of medicines but because of human body’s resistance power. The habit of taking medicines at the slightest indication of an ailment is not good. As far as possible, they should be avoided.   And finally, will power – Know your will power and use it. You can increase or decrease your palpitations by using your will power. Your heart is affected by anger and fear. Also, with the commencement of old age one loses courage and soon becomes old for want of will power. But a man of strong will power can check old age. A man is as old as he thinks himself to be.