Perpetuating the use of radical knowledge, subversion, frugality, and creative expression to empower personal healing. Created by, Kathy Fitzpatrick & Lucinda Hodges.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Quercetin, Another Super Antioxidant

So, there is truth in the old adage, an apple a day keeps the doctor away.  I have been reading about quercetin in the book, Natural Detoxification, The Complete Guide to Clearing Your Body of Toxins, by Dr. Jacqueline Krohn. Quercetin is one of those marvels of nature. It can't be manufactured in a factory, it is grown in our orchards, kissed by sunshine and blessed by rain. It is the source of that wonderful color in apples, cherries and grapes. And, it is a powerhouse for good health.

But what the heck is quercetin in terms of science and human health? As I have learned from my reading, it is a plant based flavanoid, or bioflavanoid, which means it is a plant pigment. Flavanoid's are the substances which give plants color, they are frequently found in the rind or skin of fruits and vegetables. They are also common in teas, dark chocolate and wines. Quercetin is also produced in pineapples, broccoli, green peppers Italian squash, red and yellow onions, tomatoes, cayenne pepper, garlic.

I started taking quercetin as a supplement about a year ago for its anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine effects. But, I had no idea it was such a powerful antioxidant until I read this in Dr. Krohn's book, "One of the most powerful anticancer substances discovered to date, quercetin prevents damaging changes in the cells that initiates cancer. It also helps inhibit the spread of cancer cells. In addition, quercetin keeps blood from thickening and forming clots. The pain-promoting inflammatory substances that are produced in the the body by rheumatoid arthritis and colitis are blocked by quercetin." Here are some more factoids from the book: 

Quercetin Aid to Detoxification

  • extremely potent antioxidant
  • inhibits the production of free radicals
  • accelerates the production of detoxifying enzymes that rid the body of carcinogenic toxins
  • interferes with an enzyme that neutralizes cortisone, the natural anti-inflammatory produced by the body
  • a powerful antihistamine
  • helps protect and potentiate vitamin C
  • prevents free radicals from oxidizing LDL, the "bad" cholesterol
  • prevents nerve, eye and kidney damage in people with diabetes by blocking the accumulation of sorbitol.

The recommended dosage is 400 mg., between meals, two to three times a day.



Lucinda


Melatonin: Master Hormone & Powerful Antioxidant


~Melatonin is released from the "seat of the soul" in the center of the brain. 

~Melatonin secreted by the pineal gland in the brain acts as an endocrine hormone. 

~Melatonin is also produced in the retina and GI tract.

~Marijuana circulates melatonin in our bodies.

~Melatonin reduces oxidative stress and is a free radical scavenger.

~Melatonin stimulates antioxidant enzymes in the brain and the synthesis of glutathione.
~Children born to older Mom's may be born deficient in melatonin. 

~Melatonin strongly influences the immune system by preventing infections and cancer. 
 
~Anemia may respond to taking doses of 10 mg or higher each night.

~Melatonin may prevent memory loss and Alzhiemer's by preventing amyloid deposits in the brain and neuron death.  

~Melatonin has a synergistic effect on other antioxidants and will enhance the function of vitamin's A & C.

~Melatonin improves thyroid function in perimenopausal women.

~Melatonin is effective in treating Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Need to know how much melatonin to take to get a good night's sleep? Begin with a dose of 3 mg, or whatever dose you are already accustomed to and take it about 30 minutes before bedtime. Then double the dose each evening until you are sleeping through the night. Stay at that dose. If you are feeling a hangover affect in the morning taper back one dose.


Sweet Dreams,


Lucinda Hodges


I retrieved many of these facts from an article, Melatonin Marvels, written by Dr. Ramsy NMD. Originally posted on Dragonfly Dreaming, Two Sisters Blogging