January 10, 2012
What’s in Your Medicine Cabinet for Cold & Flu Season?
Here are some recommended supplements great for cold and flu season that have been the subject of recent, good research.
Vitamin D. According to some recent thinking, the “cold and flu season” may actually be the “Vitamin D deficiency season.” As the days grow shorter, people get less sunshine, leading to a decline in the body’s levels of this vitamin, which is essential to good health in many more ways than we used to think. Taking Vitamin D during the winter may therefore be one of the most effective ways to prevent colds and flu. Many researchers who’ve studied Vitamin D now recommend at least 1000 IU/day, but those with a known deficiency may be advised to supplement at even higher levels. There’s a simple test available to check for Vitamin D deficiency – ask your doctor.
Cold Away. This blend of Chinese herbs from Health Concerns is designed to “clear external heat and alleviate symptoms of the common cold.” A key component of this formula is the herb andrographis, which in several recent US studies was found to significantly decrease cold symptoms and the duration of a cold; it may also be useful for prevention. (NYBC stocks over 20 varieties of Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas, by the way.)
Vitamin C. Many good studies have shown a decrease in cold symptom duration, but no benefit for prevention. According to a guide to natural products published by the American Pharmacists’ Association in 2006, taking between one and three grams of Vitamin C per day may decrease cold symptoms (sore throat, fatigue, runny nose) by one to 1½ days.*
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supports respiratory and immune system function. It has been studied extensively for chronic bronchitis. NAC is also the antidote for acetaminophen poisoning, now the leading cause of liver disease in the US. (Acetaminophen’s best-known tradename is Tylenol®, but it’s also found in many other drugs, so it’s become all too easy to overdose.)
One popular way to take NAC is to use PharmaNAC, notable for its careful quality control, pleasant “wildberry” flavor, and effervescent fizz!
Botanicals. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, astragalus is used for chronic respiratory infections, for colds and flu (both prevention and treatment) and for stress and fatigue. It contains complex sugar molecules called polysaccharides, which some studies show stimulate virus-fighting cells in the immune system. Researchers at the University of Texas and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center have turned up convincing evidence that astragalus boosts immune responses in lab animals, and in human cells in lab dishes.
Elderberry extract (as found in Jarrow Formulas’ Wellness Optimizer) and American ginseng (found in two Health Concerns formulas) are two other botanicals that have been studied for cold and flu symptoms in recent North American research, with some promising results. Also, a study conducted by Israeli scientists showed that elderberry extract suppressed the growth of influenza viruses in lab dishes. The same research team reported that patients given the extract recovered from the flu faster. The perennially popular echinacea, however, has generally disappointed in cold prevention studies, but is still touted by some as beneficial at the onset of a cold.
Probiotics. They say the best defense is a good offense, so consider upping your intake of the beneficial bacteria found naturally in such things as kefir (the lightly fermented milk beverage) and yogurt: they boost the flora in your intestinal tract, which is where an estimated 80% your immune system resides.
NYBC stocks eight varieties of probiotic supplements, ranging from Florastor capsules, a favorite of international travelers, to the 40 billion beneficial baceteria-per-capsule Ultra Jarro-Dophilus, to Green Vibrance, a powder added to fruit juice or another beverage of choice (complimentary shaker cup included!).
*Natural Products: A Case-Based Approach for Health Care Professionals, ed. Karen Shapiro. Washington, DC: American Pharmacists’ Assoc. (2006), “Cold and Flu,” pp. 173-192.
January 31, 2011
Supplements for Liver Health
NYBC has published an online guide to Liver Health, which you can access at
And, yes! You’ll find liver healthy supplements like silymarin, alpha lipoic acid and Chinese herbal formulas, all described in detail with usage recommendations in a special section of the NYBC catalog pages:
January 13, 2011
Chinese herbs for menopausal symptoms
You’ve probably heard about the serious concerns raised in recent years regarding Hormone Replacement Therapy and its side effects (cardiovascular risk, cancer risk). There are some traditional alternatives, especially those involving Chinese herbs. These are products from the well-regarded Health Concerns, a US-based company which has developed many of its formulas based on US clinical practice and the precepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In particular, the combination of Three Immortals and Coptis Purge Fire has been recommended for menopausal symptoms. See the descriptions on the NYBC website for further details:
Three Immortals. This formula is designed for women undergoing menopause. Particularly crafted for those with menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, headache or migraine, irritability, palpitations, vertigo, tinnitus, depression, insomnia, low back pain, hot palms and soles, and reduced sex drive.
Coptis Purge Fire. In traditional Chinese medicine, this formula is used to treat intense, acute and localized inflammations and skin eruptions, such as herpes outbreaks, PID, tooth abscess. It also is used for “chronic liver fire conditions” as well as hot flashes and constipation associated with illness or high fever. Used with Three Immortals to manage hot flashes.
September 22, 2010
Lyme Disease: Protocols for use of Zhang herbals
Here is a guide by naturopath Steve Clark to using Chinese herbals for the sometimes difficult-to-treat condition, Lyme disease. As an introduction to this material, we would like to highlight Dr. Clark’s viewpoint on Lyme disease, antibiotics, and natural treatments:
I use natural treatments for most conditions, but I feel antibiotics are an integral part of successful treatment for Lyme disease. However, I do not believe antibiotics are enough for everyone. Some cases of Lyme disease require longer courses of antibiotics and supplemental treatments to facilitate the action of the antibiotic and reduce the effects the Borrelia and co-infections. Most people don’t know what group they fall into, so I feel that aggressive treatment is a good idea initially. Inappropriately short courses of antibiotics, or other treatments like steroids, often drive Lyme into defensive positions and cause chronic disease.
Read the full guide, including detailed protocols based on Zhang herbals at:
http://www.steveclarknd.com/LymeDisease.htm
Please contact NYBC at contact.nybc@newyorkbuyersclub.org for further information.
September 4, 2010
Chinese herbal combination as sleep aid: HerbSom
NYBC is now stocking HerbSom Capsules (Zhang) a proprietary extract of corydalis root, jujube seeds and schisandra fruit.
Corydalis, known also as jin bu huan, grows in China and has some evidence suggesting it can help people suffering from insomnia to fall asleep.
Jujube seeds, from Zizyphus jujube, has a long use in Chinese medicine for managing insomnia associated with weakness (as defined in that tradition). Subhuti Dharmanand notes “Zizyphus Combination treats weakness fatigue, and distress due to weakness, which causes insomnia.” Zizyphus is the main ingredient of the formula both in terms of the quantity used and its central action for the treatment of deficiency and insomnia, which are the formula’s main indications.
For more information on these herbal components, as well as recommended dosage, see the NYBC entry at
September 11, 2009
Chinese licorice root (glycyrrhizin extract)
This is a formulation of Chinese licorice root (also known as glycyrrhizin extract). It’s widely used in Japan and it has been the subject of clinical studies there–read some details below. Please note that this supplement should not be used if you have high blood pressure or a heart condition.
See also the NYBC entry at GL-2
GL-2 Capsules (Zhang) Each bottle, 60 capsules, each capsule, 500 mg of a proprietary blend of Chinese licorice root (gan-cao) and Paeonia lactiflora PALL. root (chi-shao).
Suggested use is to take 1 capsule twice per day.
Glycyrrhizin is an extract of licorice and has been used extensively in Japan for years. It is used there to treat ulcers and other inflammatory disorders and is a therapy with a variety of effects. Several clinical studies in HIV+ people with hemophilia and others have been conducted indicating clinical stabilization of disease in recipients over 7 or more years of use. While T-cells don’t increase, progression to AIDS is significantly slowed for some. Glycyrrhizin is also an excellent liver tonic and is used to treat not only viral hepatitis but other liver disorders. It also seems to help those with impaired kidney function (particularly the IV formulation). It operates directly against lipid-enveloped viruses (likes herpes viruses) as well as several other pathogens such as TB, staph infections, MAI and others. It affects different pathways of cellular function (different mechanisms of action), including anenzyme called protein kinase C (PKC) which HIV uses for its growth. (PKC is affected by vitamin E as well). In its HIV fighting capacity, there is evidence to show that it inhibits chronically HIV-infected cells (like macrophages), stops clumping of cells (syncytia formation) and interferes with cell-to-cell and virus-to-cell binding. It acts as an antioxidant, reducing damaging inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), leukotriene C, excess cortisol and other reactive oxygen species. In terms of cytokines, it helps reduce pathologically-elevated levels of TNF and acid-labile interferon while encouraging IL-2 and interferon-gamma production, as well as MHC-I expression.
WARNINGS: Please remember that persons with a history of high blood pressure or a heart condition should not take licorice extracts. It is also important while using these extracts to monitor your potassium level as well as blood pressure. Eat bananas, peaches, dates, raisins, apricots. Potatoes also have a lot of potassium. Please let your health care provider know if you are using these products.
Licorice products can be effective in controlling the dry, hacking coughs due to colds and generating the “productive” cough that helps promote the healing process.
Licorice products have been known to deplete Potassium, an essential mineral, from the human body. A diet containing fruits and vegetables should be eaten when taking this supplement.
Warning: Do not take if you have or suspect you have high blood pressure. Do not use if you have a heart condition.
June 10, 2009
June 24: NYBC 5th Anniversary Birthday Party!
New York Buyers’ Club Presents:
“Supplements and Other Smart Strategies for Longer Living”
A Free Panel Discussion with Experts on Both Eastern and Western Approaches to Treating HIV
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DATE: Wednesday June 24th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm
PLACE: The Center, 208 West 13th Street, New York City
MORE INFO: www.NewYorkBuyersClub.org/5
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The New York Buyers’ Club (NYBC), a nonprofit nutritional supplements information exchange and purchasing co-op, celebrates its fifth anniversary with a free public forum entitled “Supplements and Other Smart Strategies for Longer Living.” Co-sponsored by Gay City News and POZ magazine, this event promises to be both informative and lively, with panelists including Sunil Pant, the first openly gay Member of Parliament in Nepal and an internationally recognized advocate for people with HIV/AIDS; Tim Horn, President and Editor-in-Chief of AIDSmeds.com; noted NYC physician Paul Bellman, who has specialized in caring for people with HIV since 1986; Ann (“Alex”) Brameier, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist; and George Carter, Director of the Foundation for Integrative AIDS Research and Treatment Director of NYBC. The forum will be moderated by NYBC President Carola Burroughs, who has worked in the field of HIV education for two decades.
Since its inception in 2004, NYBC has been a source of information on alternative and complementary therapies, especially for people with HIV and/or hepatitis (see its comprehensive website at www.NewYorkBuyersClub.org). It has also functioned as a buyers’ co-op, making a unique catalog of supplements available to its US and international membership at very low cost. NYBC endorses a holistic approach to health and healing, embracing both traditional bodies of botanical knowledge and modern evidence-based research findings, and in general stressing the need to integrate diet/nutrition, mental health and physical health, appropriate supplementation and standard pharmaceuticals. Like its predecessor DAAIR (Direct Action Alternative Information Resources), NYBC also believes that everyone has the right to actively engage in researching and understanding their healthcare options, and that we all gain by learning to critically evaluate healthcare information provided by the media, the government, “Big Pharma,” or supplement manufacturers.
After statements from the participants and a moderated panel discussion, the floor will be open for a Q&A session, followed by champagne (or cider) and cupcakes in celebration of New York Buyers’ Club’s fifth anniversary.
Supplements and Other Smart Strategies for Longer Living
Wednesday June 24th, 7:00pm – 10:00pm
The Center, 208 West 13th Street, New York City
www.NewYorkBuyersClub.org/5
Meet the Panelists:
Guest of Honor Sunil Babu Pant is the first openly gay Member of the Constituent Assembly (Parliament) of Nepal, and the Founder and Director of the Blue Diamond Society (BDS), a community-based organization that has worked for the rights of sexual minorities and people with HIV since 2001. BDS played an active role in Nepal’s transition from a conservative (and homophobic) monarchy to a federal republic in 2006-7, and subsequently has been successful in several advocacy campaigns, including the effort to legalize gay marriage, making Nepal the first Asian country to do so. Now counting more than 150,000 members, BDS continues to provide care and support to Nepalis with HIV/AIDS, while also working to reduce stigma and discrimination against the Himalayan nation’s sexual minorities. In 2007, BDS received the Felipa de Souza award from the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, which called it “one of the most effective human rights groups in the world.”
Paul Curtis Bellman, MD is a physician whose private practice in Greenwich Village, New York, has specialized in caring for HIV-positive patients since 1986. Dr. Bellman is a board certified internist and currently an associate attending in the Department of Medicine at St. Vincent’s Manhattan and a senior lecturer in the Department of Immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. He is a 1982 graduate of the New York University School of Medicine and has been involved in the clinical care of HIV-positive people since the epidemic began. Bellman actively participates in clinical research as well as the clinical practice of HIV medicine.
Ann Brameier, L. Ac. (known by all as Alex) is an herbalist and acupuncturist, licensed in New York since 1992. Certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in both acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, she practices an individualized combination of acupuncture, acupressure, tuina and Chinese herbal medicine. Says Brameier: “Combining these modalities can address a myriad of health complaints to achieve a speedier resolution of the patient’s issues than might be achieved by application of only one of these ancient traditions.”
NYBC’s George M. Carter is the Director and Co-Founder of the Foundation for Integrative AIDS Research (FIAR), and has been an AIDS activist for nearly 20 years. His work has focused on research on the use of integrative, traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine therapies for HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C, as well as the pathogenesis of HIV disease. Mr. Carter has attended numerous national and international conferences on HIV/AIDS, and has served as a civil society delegate for UNGASS sessions at the United Nations. Mr Carter serves as Treatment Director for New York Buyers’ Club.
Tim Horn is president and editor-in-chief of AIDSmeds.com. He has worked as a writer, editor and educator for a number of other AIDS organizations, including Physicians’ Research Network (PRN), the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), the AIDS Treatment Data Network, and the PWA Health Group. Tim is a member of the AIDS Treatment Activists Coalition and has also done an extensive amount of HIV education and advocacy-related work in Mexico, where he lived for 18 months, and was a founding board member of Aid for AIDS. He has been living with HIV since 1992.
February 26, 2009
Cordyceps PS: some references
Of interest to practitioners: NYBC now stocks Cordyceps PS (Health Concerns).
Cordyceps sinensis has held a place in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2000 years. Among the disorders it has been applied to: liver disease, respiratory disease, renal dysfunction, heart disease and hyperlipidemia. It has also been studied as an immune system modulator and as an adjunct therapy for some cancers.
Note: For those interested in use of this product, NYBC stresses the importance of consulting with a practitioner experienced in TCM. See the list of referrals on the NYBC website; or contact NYBC directly for additional referral information.
References:
J.S. Zhu, G.M. Halpern and K. Jones. The scientific rediscovery of an ancient Chinese herbal medicine: Cordyceps sinensis. Parts I and II, Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 3 and 4 (1998).
J. Chen, W. Zhang, T. Lu, J. Li, Y. Zheng and L. Kong. Morphological and genetic characterization of a cultivated Cordyceps sinensis fungus and its polysaccharide component possessing antioxidant property in H22 tumor-bearing mice. Life Sciences Volume 78, Issue 23, 1 May 2006, pp. 2742-2748.
November 14, 2008
Astragalus extract studied to strengthen immune response to HIV
We’re always fascinated when modern laboratory science identifies mechanisms that help to explain how traditional botanicals work. Here’s an example regarding Astragalus, among the traditional botanicals of Chinese medicine. On this blog you can find several reports of earlier research pointing to this herb’s application to immune support. But according to UCLA investigators who have just published their findings in the Journal of Immunology, an extract of Astragalus also performs a very specific function at the cellular level in support of immune function–and thus may hold special promise for enhancing the effectiveness of HIV treatments.
Here’s a description of the new Astragalus research posted on www.aidsmeds.com on Nov. 10, 2008:
When cells reproduce, their DNA gets capped at the ends by long repeated strands of genes called telomeres. Telomeres protect the genes, much like the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces. Unfortunately, telomeres get shorter every time a cell reproduces, which ultimately causes the cells to become “exhausted” and to stop functioning properly. This occurs naturally as a person ages, but more rapidly in the HIV-fighting CD4 and CD8 cells of people with HIV.
One of the lead researchers in telomeres and HIV, Rita Effros, PhD, and her colleague Steven Russell Fauce, PhD, of the department of pathology at UCLA, had experimented with gene therapy as a way to keep telomeres from shortening. But ultimately the researchers turned to what could potentially be a much less expensive method: an extract from the medicinal plant astragalus.
According to Effros and Fauce, the extract, TAT2, keeps an enzyme called telomerase turned on. CD4s and CD8s can naturally produce telomerase, which helps keep telomeres from shortening, but only for so long. After a cell has divided too many times, the telomerase gene turns off.
In test tube experiments, Effros and Fauce exposed CD4 and CD8 cells collected from HIV-positive patients to TAT2. Not only did the substance slow the shortening of the cells’ telomeres, but it also increased the cells’ production of proteins known to inhibit HIV replication.
While studies of TAT2 have not yet been conducted in people, the authors believe the strategy “could be useful in treating HIV disease, as well as immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to other viral infections associated with chronic diseases or aging.”
Reference: http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/hiv_astragalus_telomere_1667_15595.shtml
The story is being widely reported this week, so you’ll find other accounts as well. We also note that Astragalus has been one of the botanicals stocked by HIV/AIDS buyers’ clubs for years, based both on its use for immune support in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and on a recent wave of scientific interest. (Of course we’d like to have more information on the relationship between the extract employed in the UCLA study and the components of the botanical as it is traditionally harvested and crafted for medicinal use.)
For more information, see other entries under “Astragalus” on this blog, or the NYBC entry:
