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Hands up if you remember those days in the '90s when your parents would coax you into swallowing spoonfuls of thick, fishy-tasting liquid, claiming it was for your health. Well, that fishy concoction contained Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), but what exactly are Omega-3s? Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that belong to a family of essential fatty acids with critical roles in your body, potentially offering numerous health benefits. Moreover, your body cannot produce Omega-3 fatty acids on its own, so you must obtain them from your diet through various natural sources, including fatty fish, fish oils, flax seeds, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, and walnuts.  What Exactly Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids? But first, what exactly are they? As mentioned, Omega-3 fatty acids, often simply referred to as Omega-3s, are essential fats that your body requires for proper functioning. There are three primary types of Omega-3s: ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).  ALA is primarily found in plant sources, while DHA and EPA are predominantly present in marine animals and algae. These Omega-3s play vital roles in ensuring that all the cells in your body function optimally. They are also essential components of cell membranes, providing structural support and facilitating interactions between cells. Although crucial for the functioning of all cells, Omega-3s are particularly concentrated in cells within your eyes and brain. These essential fatty acids also provide your body with energy and support the health of various body systems, including the cardiovascular and endocrine systems.  The Potential Benefits of Omega-3 While the research findings present a mixed picture, research suggests that maintaining an adequate intake of Omega-3s can yield numerous health benefits for adults, particularly in the case of the longer-chain forms, EPA and DHA.  Some ways Omega-3 might act as a factor in the maintenance of good health include: 1. Support Cardiovascular Health As per the findings in the Singapore Myocardial Infarction Registry Report for the year 2020, there were 11,631 documented cases of heart attacks, signifying a notable increase from the 7,344 cases recorded in 2010. This data translates to an average of 31 heart attack cases per day. Of this group, the mortality rate was 9.2% within the first 30 days following the occurrence of the heart attack. So where and how do Omega-3s come in? Interestingly, previous observations of communities with diets rich in fish pointed to notably lower rates of these diseases, prompting researchers to investigate the link with Omega-3 consumption. Omega-3s have shown their ability to contribute to the reduction of triglyceride levels in the blood, which bodes well for heart health. Some older studies even suggest that Omega-3s could increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, potentially assisting the heart's defence mechanisms. Omega-3s are also said to play a role in preventing blood platelets from clumping together, reducing the risk of harmful blood clots — an essential aspect of cardiovascular well-being. 2. Support Cognitive Well-being Your brain, a crucial hub of your body's operations, is composed of approximately 60% fat, with a noteworthy 10% to 20% of that fat being DHA. This isn't just any fat; it fortifies the delicate membranes safeguarding your brain cells, playing a critical role in both short- and long-term cognitive health. Observational studies hint that diets rich in Omega-3 fats tend to have a reduced risk of cognitive decline.  Omega-3 fatty acids also serve as custodians of brain function. They're thought to shield brain cells from oxidative stress, which has links to conditions like Alzheimer's disease.  But that's not all. Omega-3s could be like a friend that stays with you as you grow older, helping preserve your cognitive abilities. A review of 14 studies uncovered their positive impact on various aspects of brain function in older adults. These benefits span from short-term memory to executive function and perceptual speed. Moreover, other studies concluded that Omega-3s could boost blood flow to the brain, potentially enhancing learning, memory, and overall cognitive well-being. 3. Joint Comfort and Flexibility Omega-3 fatty acids could be a factor in maintaining good joint health and addressing joint pain and stiffness. This is probably due to their anti-inflammatory properties and capacity to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory proteins within the body. Recent findings from a 2021 study even indicate that Omega-3s hold the potential to address pain in individuals grappling with Osteoarthritis, a form of degenerative joint disease. 4. Mood and Stress Regulation Research has shown the potential of Omega-3 fatty acids in promoting mental well-being. Supplementation with Omega-3s might provide relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety, with both high and low doses showing efficacy in treating major depressive disorder when compared to a placebo, as indicated by one study. But that's not all — another study suggests that Omega-3s could potentially enhance the management of anxiety symptoms. Researchers theorise that Omega-3s exert their influence by modulating certain brain pathways responsible for regulating emotions. While further research is certainly warranted, Omega-3 fatty acids have ventured into the spotlight as potential allies in addressing conditions like schizophrenia, mood disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and even autism. Incorporating Omega-3 into Your Life Now that we've ventured into the realm of Omega-3's potential benefits, let's explore how you can seamlessly weave this essential nutrient into your daily routine: Natural Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are swimming with Omega-3s. Including these fish in your diet a few times a week can be a delectable and heart-healthy choice. Plant-Based Options: If you're following a plant-based diet, consider incorporating flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds. These sources provide ALA. Algae: Algal oil, derived from algae, is an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. It's rich in DHA, the same Omega-3 found in fatty fish. Now, when opting for Omega-3 supplements, like fish oil supplements, it's crucial to select quality options. Here are some key factors to consider: High Absorption: Look for supplements that offer high absorption rates to ensure your body receives the full benefits. Non-GMO: Ensure that the supplement is free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) for a more natural choice. All-Natural: Choose supplements made from all-natural ingredients, minimising artificial additives. Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, opt for gluten-free options. Sugar-Free: To maintain a healthy diet, seek sugar-free supplements. Considering the potential role Omega-3s could play in cardiovascular health, these heart support supplements are worth considering to have added to your regimen.  Whether you embrace Omega-3-rich foods or opt for supplements, this essential nutrient can become a valuable companion on your journey to attain health. So, explore the world of Omega-3, unlock its potential, and take a step towards a healthier, vibrant you.

Scientists are continuously finding more evidence on how antioxidants acts to the presence of chronic diseases in our body. Lutein is a carotenoid, which is a potent antioxidant that is derived from food and unable to be synthesised by the body on its own. High amounts of carotenoids in our diet can have a profound effect in reducing systemic diseases and age related diseases, especially those involving the eyes. But does our diet provide an adequate amount of lutein? Studies says this varies because lutein is mostly found in raw green vegetables like kale, basil and spinach. Thus, it is very unlikely we consume a sufficient amount of lutein-rich foods on a daily basis. Studies also found that supplementing individuals who suffer from eye problems with lutein has proven to be effective. For example, a recurring and troubling eye problem for the aging population is age related macular degeneration (AMD), commonly caused due to poor eating habits. AMD has shown signs of improvement in people who took lutein dietary supplements. Not only that, lutein supplements also reduced sensitivity to screen glaring and photo toxicity effects, which are a precursor to cancer. The wavelength of blue light which is harmful to us and the absorption wavelength of lutein is almost the same, making lutein a great source to absorb blue light and protects us from more oxidative stress. As a supplement that is best taken long term, lutein is also categorized under Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS). Lutein is also more highly distributed on the retina, making it concentrated there and increasing pigmentation of the lens. This helps in reducing cataract formation and supports eye health. Recent studies have also found lutein to be responsible for cognitive health. Besides supporting vision health, lutein’s importance in cognitive health makes it a more prominent daily supplementation that we should consume either via our diet or from external resources. With the upcoming World Sight day on 13th of October, let us give more importance and bring awareness to the topic of vision health, especially among the greying population     References    Berrow E.J., Bartlett H.E., Eperjesi F., Gibson J.M. The effects of a lutein-based supplement on objective and subjective measures of retinal and visual function in eyes with age-related maculopathy—A randomised controlled trial. Br. J. Nutr. 2013;109:2008–2014. doi: 10.1017/S0007114512004187. Buscemi S, Corleo D, Di Pace F, Petroni ML, Satriano A, Marchesini G. The Effect of Lutein on Eye and Extra-Eye Health. Nutrients. 2018 Sep 18;10(9):1321. doi: 10.3390/nu10091321. PMID: 30231532; PMCID: PMC6164534. Ma L., Lin X.M., Zou Z.Y., Xu X.R., Li Y., Xu R. A 12-week lutein supplementation improves visual function in Chinese people with long-term computer display light exposure. Br. J. Nutr. 2009;102:186–190. doi: 10.1017/S0007114508163000 Wang X., Jiang C., Zhang Y., Gong Y., Chen X., Zhang M. Role of lutein supplementation in the management of age-related macular degeneration: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Ophthalmic Res. 2014;52:198–205. doi: 10.1159/000363327

As parents, nothing takes precedence over the well-being of our kids. As such, it is only natural that ensuring their health is a top priority, and a key element of this is fostering a robust immune system.  Children's immune systems protect them against various threats from the moment they take their first breath. This is where a strong immune system comes into the picture to function as the body's natural defence mechanism — a fundamental aspect of their well-being. This becomes especially crucial during childhood when kids actively explore the world, attend school, and engage in various activities. A robust immune system allows children to fend off common illnesses like colds, flu, and infections. Kids, with their natural curiosity, are also frequently exposed to germs, especially in school environments. In these situations, a strong immune system acts as a guardian, significantly reducing the likelihood of frequent illnesses. Furthermore, a healthy immune system is essential for proper growth and development. It ensures the body can efficiently utilise nutrients from food, contributing to overall well-being.  While ensuring children's health involves various measures such as vaccination and good hygiene, nutritional support plays a pivotal role, too. This is because a well-balanced diet enriched with immune-boosting elements can help enhance their immune defences.  Therefore, understanding the role of specific nutrients like beta-glucan can be a strategic step in this journey. What is Beta-Glucan? Beta-glucan is a specific type of dietary fibre found in select foods like oats, wheat, and barley. Unlike its counterpart, insoluble fibre, beta-glucan is soluble in water.  Similar to other soluble fibres, beta-glucan decelerates the digestion process, contributing to a prolonged feeling of fullness and assisting in managing appetite. Additionally, it is said to regulate the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which aids in stabilising blood sugar levels and helping with blood sugar control. Notably, beta-glucan exhibits the potential to benefit immune health, as suggested by several animal and test-tube studies. For example, in one study, the results demonstrate its ability to activate specific immune cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and monocytes, which all play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases. While further research in humans is necessary to substantiate these findings, beta-glucan stands as a promising ally in supporting the body's immune defences. How Beta-Glucan Can Help Support a Child’s Immunity Before we delve into the specifics of how beta-glucan might be able to help boost your child's immune system, it's crucial to understand the broader context.  Beyond the essential nutrients, dietary fibre and prebiotics have shown effectiveness in reducing the risk of various metabolic diseases like diabetes. Similarly, beta-glucan, being a dietary fibre with prebiotic properties, plays a pivotal role in supporting gut health, offering a range of benefits for paediatric well-being. This might not only include enhancing immunity but also promoting heart health and regulating cholesterol levels.  1. Enhanced Resistance to Common Illnesses Based on the study “Clinical benefits of beta-glucan supplementation in children”, regular intake of beta-glucan could play a role in boosting your child's immune system, aiding them in warding off those pesky common colds and illnesses. Beta-glucans, particularly those derived from yeast or fungi, are specifically known to have immune-boosting effects. Why?  Because these compounds stimulate various immune mechanisms and cells.  They are thought to enhance the activity of white blood cells like neutrophils and macrophages, which are essential for fighting infections. Beta-glucans also support natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in identifying and getting rid of harmful pathogens. Moreover, beta-glucans help in the production of cytokines and chemokines, which are signalling molecules that regulate immune responses. They also aid in antigen presentation, a vital process in the immune system. Additionally, beta-glucans create an environment conducive to the function of certain immune cells called Th1 lymphocytes, which are instrumental in combating infections. 2. Supports Gut Health Beta-glucan isn't just about immunity; it may also play a role in promoting a healthy gut, which, in turn, supports your child's overall health.  Recent studies have recognised cereal beta-glucan (derived from plant seeds and the cell walls of endospores like oats, barley, wheat, and rice) as a bioactive carbohydrate with several health benefits, including acting as a potential prebiotic. But what does that mean for your child's gut? This means that beta-glucan can serve as a feast for the good bacteria in their gut, potentially encouraging their growth and multiplication. This is like nurturing an army of beneficial microbes that help with proper digestion and overall gut health. As these good bacteria flourish, they produce short-chain fatty acids, like propionate. These contribute to maintaining a healthy intestinal barrier, producing mucus, reducing inflammation, and even lowering the risk of certain conditions, like colorectal cancer. 3. Adaptability in Diet And finally, beta-glucan is a versatile addition to a child's diet, easily obtainable from various foods or as a health supplement. It can be conveniently paired with immune-supporting nutrients like Vitamin D3 and selenium, offering a comprehensive approach to enhancing immunity. This adaptability in diet ensures that children can benefit from the potential immune-boosting properties of beta-glucan in a way that suits their preferences and dietary needs.  Unlocking Better Health for Your Child with Beta-Glucan Incorporating beta-glucan into your child's diet can be a strategic and nurturing step towards fortifying their immune defences, equipping them to grow up healthy and strong. However, it is crucial to note that the time it takes to notice the effects of daily beta-glucan consumption can vary depending on factors like dosage and individual health. After all, at the end of the day, it's about nurturing their growth, health, and resilience in a world filled with challenges, one immune-boosting step at a time. But how can you make this addition to your child's daily routine more manageable? You might want to explore beta-glucan supplements, in addition to other daily vitamins for immunity, as they offer a practical and child-friendly approach to ensure your child gains the advantages of this immune-supporting fibre. While you're at it, it's wise to search for sugar-free options that maintain quality. Remember, it's always important to seek the advice of health professionals to ensure the right choice for your child's specific needs.

Plant based diets are becoming more trendy these days, but there is still stigma and misinformation regarding the nutritional value it can bring. Some people have the misconception that plant-based diets are unable to give you optimum nutrients as compared to a meat-inclusive one. This is, however, completely untrue – continue reading to find out more. Fully plant-based diets mean that your plate consists of only plants and food made from plants, which also excludes dairy and eggs. This also gives a positive effect to the planet. How is this so? Firstly, plant based diets can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, because farming and breeding animals produce tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Also, breeding animals increases energy consumptions - for example, the usage of electricity and water is higher in animal breeding compared to planting. Farming, processing animal meat and the meat industry causes more pollution overall which affect our planet. To make matters worse, farming also causes more deforestation which leads to wild animals losing their habitats. Farming causes the soil to lose its nutrients and become infertile to be used for crop plantation. Lastly, choosing plant based diet can help us combat world hunger because it could feed more compared to farming where the animals need to be fed as well. Thus, looking at the good outcome it gives us and our planet, lets dive further into getting the best from our plant based food choices. There is a term called the “wealthy malnutrition,” where plant based diets are blamed to keep you feeling full with fibre but miss out on the important nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin D3, calcium, iodine, protein and omega. So how do we obtain these specific nutrients from plants?  Beginning with protein, which is one fundamental nutrient that gives us the basic building blocks for muscles. It is an important nutrient that gives energy and helps you move through the day. A diet lacking in protein causes tiredness and poor bodily functions. The common myth is that protein is only found in meats, which is not true. Protein from plants are abundant as in the image below: Besides protein, omega-3 is also considered a powerful nutrient. It helps in our cardiovascular, vision and brain health. It is an essential fatty acid that helps to lower the rate of plaque deposition in our arteries, lowering the risks for heart prone diseases. A popular myth connected to omega -3 is that it can only be derived from fish oil. Popular plant-derived omega 3 looks like these: Vitamin D and calcium is also important to help grow and strengthen our bones, muscle and teeth. Vitamin D in plant based diets come in the forms below. Fortified food means specific nutrients have been added to them during process. Another tip is vitamin D is also obtained from sunlight, so those living in tropical countries are never deprived of this! Following these is vitamin B12 which is crucial for nerves and red blood cells. Deficiency will lead to anaemia, fatigue, mood swings and more complications. Vitamin B12 is also very difficult to obtain from plants but mostly derived from fortified cereals and nut milk. Thus it could be beneficial to take vitamin B12 supplements for those in need. Next in line is iodine and iron. Both are important for red blood cell productions and hormonal balance. Iodine is mandatory when it comes to thyroid because this hormone plays an important role in every cell and organ of our body. Iron is crucial for haemoglobin production that assists red blood cells to carry oxygen. Below are the sources you can get from plant based foods. Based on the above recommendations, it is untrue that we will be deprived of nutrients or energy when taking up more vegetarian options. Moreover, with the benefits of the planet involved we could choose to put more vegetables on our plate to keep ourselves healthy and protect our planet too.

Collagen and skin Collagen is a structural protein found in our skin, bones, muscles, tendons and cartilage. It is the most abundantly found protein; it helps connect all the organs internally and helps structures stretch and be elastic. Collagen is found in large amounts in the body, especially in the dermis, which is the second layer beneath the top skin layer. These fibres provide the skin strength, hydration and mechanical properties.  Our body naturally produces less and less collagen as we age. The effects of ageing can start to be seen in our late 20’s and gradually increase as we get older. As collagen is predominantly found in skin which is largely exposed to the environment, the effect of ageing is more visible on the skin. The diminishing collagen leads to reduction in skin elasticity, dull looking skin and lack of lustre. The nutraceutical world as well as beauty and cosmetic analysts have for a long time promoted the use of collagen for beautiful skin. Incorporating collagen in our day-to-day through supplements and beauty creams has been proven to substantially improve collagen fibres in our skin.   Collagen supplements Collagen in supplements and drinks is in the form of collagen peptides or hydrolysed collagens. Absorption of collagen through oral supplementation is much faster and works from the inside out. This means that the collagen gets absorbed by the dermis and gives glowing beautiful skin. It also gives longer lasting hydration and supple skin. Collagen in skin improves fine lines and wrinkles, which is why it is connected with anti-ageing properties. A study was done to test hydrolysed collagen product in a group of 18 menopausal women. After oral consumption for 9 weeks there was improvement in the appearance of the skin and a significant reduction in the depth of wrinkles in the tested subjects. At the same time the degree of hydration, the loss of water, and the elasticity of the skin were also improving. In addition, it was shown that daily oral supplementation with 1 g of this type of hydrolysed collagen for up to 12 weeks led to significant reduction of wrinkles and skin dryness and improvement of skin elasticity. To most, glowing skin is synonymous with “beautiful skin” – which is why consumers try out various products to keep their skin looking plump and youthful. Some of the best ways to do this is to stay hydrated and stress free, eat a healthy diet, and perhaps add some collagen beauty supplements for that extra pump. Herbal Pharm brings a range of collagen supplements and drinks like the “Hair Skin and Nails” and “Miracle Skin” supplements and Soy-lite Collagen drink. Each of these products are specially curated with premium ingredients, including high quality collagen, providing optimum results for various needs.   Reference  Bolke, L., Schlippe, G., Gerß, J., & Voss, W. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), 2494. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102494

FROM WHERE  Tellicherry peppercorn has always been confused with originating from tellicherry, India but ours is grown organically in Malabar, India. All kinds of pepper are included in the Piperaceae family. This herb is also called as Piper nigrum or Piper Albi Linn Its considered to be one of the best pepper out there with many renowned chefs around the world using Tellicherry peppercorns as a secret ingredient for their top recipes.  The fact is, most people will not be able to tell the difference or even know about peppercorns by sight alone. Perhaps you might think the bigger size is because Tellicherry peppers are harvested later than ordinary pepper, but that is actually not true. Tellicherry is harvested the same time as other peppercorns and they also grow on the same vine.  After harvesting, all the peppercorns are left to dry then shifted according to their size. Yes, that’s the key! The size of the peppercorn makes a huge difference. A telicherry peppercorn is one of the largest, measuring larger than 4,25mm in diameter. These peppers are some of the rarest of the crop, hence the demand for them. The most special version is the 4.75mm diameter peppercorn, which is called tellicherry special extra bold peppercorn!   WHY IS BIGGER BETTER? The larger the peppercorn, the less heat they have, and this actually induces more aroma. This is what makes tellichery special, the room inside the peppercorn creates magic in the fragrant. The tellicherry on its own has a strong lime, lemon and orange fragrant notes  The heat it dissipates is strong and adds a strong note in your without being strong enough to create fire on your tongue. Thus, it elevates the taste of your food with heat and aroma without disrupting the flavors.  Tellicherry peppercorns are best used freshly ground directly onto food.  Always store peppercorns in a cool, dark place as they lose their flavour and aroma quickly. It is also known that properly stored, sealed peppercorns can still be viable up to three years. Brined peppercorns need to be refrigerated after opening and used within a month.   BENEFITS AND NUTRITION OF TELLICHERRY  Tellicherry has its own range of benefits, more upscale than the normal pepper.  Helping digestion Any type of spice from the family of piperine will help with digestion. This is because the Piperine has an ability to stimulate the taste buds from the stomach. Hence, there will be more production of hydrochloric acid which is good for your digestive health. Hydrochloric acid could also support you to get relieve from diarrhea, bloated stomach, gastric acid, and other kinds of digestion issues that you could be facing.  Lose weight Apart from healing your internal organs, this another benefit is related to your body proportion. If you have a weight weight problem, then Tellicherry pepper could be your partner-in-crime. The heat from peppers are natural fat burners. Additionally, Tellicherry pepper alongside other kinds of pepper have an ability to help the assimilation of food that you eat. Cancer prevention Some studies have noted that using spices like turmeric and peppercorn in the long run may prevent carcinogenics in your body and act as natural tumor inhibitants    Herbal Pharm brings you the best handpicked Organic Telicherry Black peppercorns, the special extra bold type in 250 grams; we sell ours sealed in a stand-up nozzle pouch which keeps the peppercorns in perfect conditions. Ideal to use and elevate all of your meals! 

The bladder is an expendable organ that expands when its being filled with fluid and a normal person will have the urge to urinate when its three quarter full. Our urinary system (also referred to as bladder) is essential because it filters extra fluid and wastes from your bloodstream, removing them from your body.  Bladder health is sometimes affected as we age. Some of those changes could be controlled with adjusting our habits and lifestyle, but some are unavoidable. Here is a list of factors that can impact your urinary health, some of which may cause bladder pain and discomfort: Constipation: Constipation causes excess stool build up in your colon, placing pressure on your bladder and keeping it from expanding freely as it should. Diabetes: Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves surrounding your bladder that could disrupt bladder control. Low physical activity: a healthy active lifestyle can prevent bladder issues and maintain a healthy weight.  Being overweight: being overweight causes risk of leaking urine or poor urinary control  Smoking:  Smoking increases the risk of bladder cancer. Some medications: Specific drugs could impact your bladders such as increase the risk of your bladder leaking urine Caffeine: too much caffeine consumption will also cause problematic bladder.  Alcohol: Consuming alcohol could worsen potential bladder issues. Diet: Bladder problems can worsen with overconsumption of certain foods such as artificial sweeteners, sodas, citrus, spicy foods and tomato-based foods.  Pelvic injury: Trauma like childbirth or prostate surgery could damage the nerves and muscles that control your bladder and could lead to poor urinary control  Specific activities: Some activities could increase your risk of a urinary tract infection, including having sex, using a catheter to urinate and using specific kinds of birth control.   Urinary tract infections (UTI) Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common – particularly in women and older people. Around one in two women and one in 20 men will get a UTI in their lifetime. Moreover, recurrent UTIs are also common, occurring in up to one-third of women after first-episode UTIs. Some of the symptoms of UTIs include: • wanting to urinate more often and urgently, if only a few drops  • burning pain or a ‘scalding’ sensation when urinating • a feeling that the bladder is still full after urinating • pain above the pubic bone • cloudy, bloody or very smelly urine.    Cranberry is one superfood associated with improving urinary tract health. It is a valuable combination of antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre. Many studies have been conducted to study the effectiveness of cranberry juice for urinary tract infections. Cranberry appears to work by preventing the adhesion of bacteria to the bladder wall lining, thus impairing colonization and subsequent infection.  Meta-analyses have established that recurrence rates over 1 year are reduced approximately 35% in young to middle-aged women. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology did conclude that taking cranberry capsules lowered the risk of UTIs by 50 percent in women. This is because cranberry capsules are more concentrated and work more effectively as opposed to only drinking juice. Urinary tract infections and bladder issues are associated with pain and stress, especially in cases of frequent recurrence. Thus having a cranberry extract pill will always be a handy preventive method. Herbal Pharm's Bladder Support has a mixture of cranberry extract together with other key ingredients to help support your optimum bladder health. Say goodbye to UTIs and relieve your discomfort with Bladder Support.     References  Guay DR. Cranberry and urinary tract infections. Drugs. 2009;69(7):775-807. doi: 10.2165/00003495-200969070-00002. PMID: 19441868. González de Llano D, Moreno-Arribas MV, Bartolomé B. Cranberry Polyphenols and Prevention against Urinary Tract Infections: Relevant Considerations. Molecules. 2020 Aug 1;25(15):3523. doi: 10.3390/molecules25153523. PMID: 32752183; PMCID: PMC7436188. Betterhealthchannel. 2021. Urinary Tract Infection. Retrieved from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/urinary-tract-infections-uti Xia J-y, Yang C, Xu D-f, Xia H, Yang L-g, Sun G-j (2021) Consumption of cranberry as adjuvant therapy for urinary tract infections in susceptible populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. PLoS ONE 16(9): e0256992. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0256992

Honey  Honey bees collect nectar from flowers to create honey and store this honey as food. Honey starts as flower nectar collected by bees, which gets broken down into simple sugars stored inside the honeycomb. The design of the honeycomb and constant fanning of the bees' wings causes evaporation, creating sweet liquid honey.    An average hive produces around 55 pounds of excess honey per year. Beekeepers harvest it by collecting the honeycomb frames and scraping off the wax cap that seals off the honey in each cell. When the caps are removed, the frames are placed in an extractor and a centrifuge works here to bring out the honey out from the comb. Honey is then strained to remove foreign particles and wax. Its then bottled, labelled and distributed to the stores. If the ingredient label says “pure honey,” nothing was added from bee to hive to bottle.   What is Mānuka Honey? So now that we know what is honey and how its produced, let’s find out what is Mānuka honey: Why is it different and popular? Have you ever noticed the wide selection of honey readily available at stores? They come under many different brands and types like raw honey, forest honey, Mānuka honey, floral honey and more.  But Mānuka honey has been the most sought after due to its taste and properties. Mānuka differs from normal honey as it appears thicker, creamier with brownish, caramel colored hues. The process of producing the honey is the same but the nectar is extracted from the Mānuka bush, which is very rare and only found in countries like New Zealand and Australia.  Much research was carried out on Mānuka honey and the honey was proven to be highly antibacterial in nature. The honey’s natural ability to inhibit bacterial growth has been tested against many strong microorganisms and has been proven highly effective. Not only that, it is also clinically proven to aid in wound healing, burn injuries treatment and very importantly increases the efficacy of antibiotic drugs. This is very important as honey can be used as an alternative for drugs in treating bacterial infections. Mānuka honey contains elevated levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a small molecule that contributes to its antibacterial activity. The higher the level of MGO, the higher the antibacterial level in it.  So now we come to the grading system of Mānuka honey. You might be familiar with the UMF and MGO labels on Mānuka honey jars, but what do they really mean and how do they differ?   Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF) and MGO are standardised indicators of the concentration of some of the bioactive chemical compounds in Mānuka honey that actually gives the fighting factor in infections and help wound healing. UMF is a slightly more advanced grading -- but nonetheless, both have the same reliable factors when it comes to grading the antibacterial level. In simple terms, both these grading systems symbolize high quality Mānuka honey. Mānuka Honey UMF Rating Mānuka Honey MGO Rating UMF 5+ MGO 83+ UMF 10+  MGO 263+ UMF 12+ MGO 356+ UMF 15+  MGO 514+ UMF 18+ MGO 696+ UMF 20+ MGO 829+   More on Mānuka Honey  Every drop of Mānuka honey is authentically lab tested for pollen markers to prove the presence of Mānuka pollen in its DNA. The monofloral Mānuka honey comes entirely from Mānuka flowers, as the bees only collect Mānuka nectar and pollen. Sometimes, bees also collect nectar from other flowers - then the honey will be tested to prove for higher levels of Mānuka and labelled as multi floral Mānuka.  Herbal Pharm Mānuka Honey  Herbal Pharm exclusively brings its Mānuka honey from New Zealand. Each bottle of honey is specifically lab tested by an authorized lab to prove the potency and the grading of its contents.  We currently have 5 variants: MGO 50+, MGO 100+, MGO 300+, MGO 500+ and MGO 800+. As the numbers increase, so does the honey’s antibacterial capacity. So, if you are simply looking for a regular daily honey or to replace your sweeteners then MGO 50+ is the recommended one. References  Johnston, M., McBride, M., Dahiya, D., Owusu-Apenten, R., & Nigam, P. S. (2018). Antibacterial activity of Mānuka honey and its components: An overview. AIMS microbiology, 4(4), 655–664. https://doi.org/10.3934/microbiol.2018.4.655 Saeed S, Farkhondeh T, Fariborz S. Honey and health: A review of recent clinical research. Pharmacogn Res. 2018;9:121–127. Wijesinghe M, Weatherall M, Perrin K, et al. Honey in the treatment of burns: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its efficacy. NZ Med J. 2009;122:47–60. [PubMed] [Google Scholar] Hayes G, Wright N, Gardner SL, Telzrow CL, Wommack AJ, Vigueira PA. Mānuka honey and methylglyoxal increase the sensitivity of Staphylococcus aureus to linezolid. Lett Appl Microbiol. 2018 Jun;66(6):491-495. doi: 10.1111/lam.12880. Epub 2018 Apr 19. PMID: 29575121.

Aleppo is a city located in Syria, known to be the largest city in the country and one of the oldest cities to be populated. Aleppo was a city full of historic buildings, and a hub for trading, art and culture as well.  The war in Aleppo started in 2012, resulting in a huge loss of lives and properties. These destroyed living in Aleppo to an extent where ancient practices and cultures were forced to be diminished totally or moved to other foreign lands.  Our Aleppo soap has one such story too. This ancient soap existed since 2400 BC, co-originated in Syria by the owner Nabil Andoura. Andoura claims he learned this trade secret of making Aleppo soap from his grandmother whereby laurel oil from bay leaves is mixed with olive oil and made into soap bars. This traditional method has been passed down for centuries without any changes.  When public bathing (also known as hammam baths) became more widespread in Syria, the Aleppo soap also gained popularity due to its rich texture and healing properties for the skin. The strategic position of Syria along the silk route helped popularize the soap, and improved the country’s economy through export. Andoura took this trade secrets and grew his own empire, building a profitable business exporting to countries across the world.  Sadly, in 2011 he was forced to flee Syria due to the war, which was affecting people’s livelihood, business, and safety. He then moved briefly to Beirut, and has now settled in Vienna to continue the unique tradition of Aleppo soap making.     What Makes Aleppo Special? While Aleppo has had a turbulent history, there must be something special in it for the practice to survive for so long and for the soap to be used all over the world. The secret lies in the skilled and deep rooted craft and in the quality of the raw ingredients, which come together to create this remarkable product.  If we were to follow the procedure step by step, it would look like this: 1. Olive oil is poured into a special vessel and mixed with sodium carbonate originated from desert plants, and the mixture is heated to almost 200℃.    2. The oil breaks down and releases glycerine. This process is called saponification and happens prior to the laurel oil being added.   3. Subsequently, the mixture is poured into a basin-like shallow swimming pool where it is left to chill and harden.   4. Once the soap is congealed and becomes more firm, it is cut by hand with special tools, stamped and allowed to dry.   5. The bars are stacked, one over the other, always leaving space between each bar to encourage air circulation throughout the chamber so that each piece of soap dries well on all sides. This process takes 8 to 12 months.   Despite the ruins of the Aleppo city, it continues to make its name through various ways and our Aleppo soap is one of the many. Its high laurel oil content provides for moisturizing and high antimicrobial properties that provides a remedy for multiple skin conditions and ailments. At Herbal Pharm, we are proud to bring you this traditional soap crossing oceans, only for you to have the best from the rest.   References Arthur, G. (2013). BBC News. Aleppo Soap. War Threatens an Ancient Tradition. Retrieved from: https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-22541698 France24. (2019). France24. The Scent of soap Making Returns to Aleppo. Retrieved from: https://www.france24.com/en/20190322-scent-soap-making-returns-aleppo Wallaya, N. (2019). In Syria, War and Modernity are No Match for The World’s Oldest Soap. Retrieved from: https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/in-syria-war-and-modernity-are-no-match-for-the-worlds-oldest-soap Cobiella, K, & Gaslowe, G. (2018). NBC News. Aleppo’s Reconstruction is in Full swing after Years of war. Retrieved from: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/syrians-returning-aleppo-confront-hope-hardship-n905231 

Nopal Cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) The nopal cactus (commonly known as the prickly pear or its scientific name Opuntia) belongs to the cactus family. This specific cactus plant is widely found in Mexico, Latin America, South Africa and Mediterranean countries; it’s a staple food in those regions, with the edible parts being the leaves, flowers, stems and fruit. Prickly pear cactus can be eaten whole (boiled or grilled) or even made into juice and jam spreads  There has been a lot of research In recent decades for the many beneficial health properties of this high in fibre superfood. Nopal cactus contains a wealth of health attributes, such as:  niacin riboflavin  vitamin B6  copper  iron  fibre  vitamin C  vitamin K calcium potassium  magnesium  manganese, Among others  Notably, it’s rich in polyphenols, vitamins, polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acids. Benefits of Nopal Cactus Nopal cactus provides a variety of nutritional and health benefits: Antiviral – evident against Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), HIV  Neuroprotective – protects nerve cell against damages that can cause sensory loss and pain  Antioxidants – reduces oxidative stress, prevents free radical’s formation and free against many diseases  Diabetes – regulate blood sugar levels  Treat enlarged prostates – enlarged prostates is a condition that leads to increase in urination frequency  Reduce cholesterol – studies show lowered LDL cholesterol, which is also known as the bad cholesterol. Improves skin – antioxidant properties reduce ageing and helps with clearer skin Nopal cactus are potential metabolic regulators - meaning that cactus extracts have beneficial effects on the metabolisms of both lipid and glucose, which could aid in the treatment of metabolic disorders including diabetes and obesity. On the other hand, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cactus pear have polyphenols and flavonoids, which are proven to prevent against several age-linked diseases. Nopal Cactus and Diabetes Many studies have been conducted to prove the functionality of nopal cactus in regulating blood sugar levels. In one study, extracts of the cactus plant seeds increased muscle and liver glycogen and reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, demonstrating possibility of insulin-sensitizing effect.  In 2007, a study done by Diabetes care showed that blood sugar reduced by up to 48% after including prickly pear in their meals. A prior study conducted on an extract of prickly pear cactus showed significant improvements in metabolic syndrome, a condition characterized by central obesity, hypertension, and disturbed glucose and insulin metabolism. The syndrome has been linked to increased risks of both type-2 diabetes and Cardiovascular diseases Cactus pear has also been found to decrease postprandial hyperglycaemia (60 min after glucose loading), 40.33% and 16.01%, in healthy and diabetic glucose-loaded rats, respectively. Cactus pear, also, significantly decreased intestinal glucose absorption by 25.42%. Although proven to be very potent, consumption should be taken with consideration as nopals can sometimes make people hypoglycaemic, and should also not be consumed excessively, especially by those on diabetic medications and before any surgical procedure operation.  An Overview of Diabetes Diabetes is a chronic disorder that affects how your body turns food into energy. Most of the food we eat is broken down into sugar (also called glucose) and released into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin, and that insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy.  Diabetes happens either due to less production of insulin by the pancreas, or due to inability of the body’s cells to respond to the insulin produced. Based on this, there are two types of diabetes: Type I and Type II.  Type I:  insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) - mainly due to less production of insulin Type II:  non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) - mainly due to inability of body cells to respond to the insulin produced Approximately 415 million people were suffering from diabetes worldwide in 2015 according to the International Diabetes Federation; this number is expected to exceed 640 million by the year 2040. In Singapore, over 400,000 Singaporeans live with the disease. The lifetime risk of developing diabetes is one in three among Singaporeans, and the number of those with diabetes is projected to surpass one million by 2050.  Complications of Diabetes It is estimated that half of patients with diabetes are unaware of their disease and are thus more prone to developing diabetic complications. The chronic complications of diabetes are broadly divided into microvascular and macrovascular: - Microvascular complications - neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. - Macrovascular complications- cardiovascular disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Diabetic foot syndrome has been defined as the presence of foot ulcer associated with neuropathy, PAD, and infection, and it is a major cause of lower limb amputation  - Others-  dental disease, reduced resistance to infections, and birth complications among women with gestational diabetes It is very important to keep blood glucose level in check to reduce and prevent diabetic complications. Together with healthy balanced meals, a fit lifestyle and less stressful life is needed to fight this new age war.    Herbal Pharm’s Dia-Med Nopal Cactus Our Dia-Med Nopal Cactus is a 100% pure nopal cactus with no added chemicals or preservatives. Made from the finest nopal cactus and used in high concentrations, it is one of our best sellers to date. This superfood is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of the best diabetes health supplements for regulating blood glucose levels. The high fiber content of this supplement helps you feel fuller for longer and supports weight loss. As a one-ingredient product, it is a staple plant-based nutrition you should own to better manage your diabetes and prevent complications. Our Dia-Med Nopal Cactus should be taken 3 times a day before meals with precautions. Reference  Dr Fabio (2018). Cactus for Diabetes? About Prickly Pear. Integrating Healing & Wellness. Retrieved from: https://www.drfabio.com/healthblog/cactus-for-diabetes-about-prickly-pear El-Mostafa, K., El Kharrassi, Y., Badreddine, A., Andreoletti, P., Vamecq, J., El Kebbaj, M. S., Latruffe, N., Lizard, G., Nasser, B., & Cherkaoui-Malki, M. (2014). Nopal cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) as a source of bioactive compounds for nutrition, health and disease. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 19(9), 14879–14901. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules190914879 https://www.healthline.com/health/nopal Ow Yong, L., Koe, L.W.P. War on Diabetes in Singapore: a policy analysis. Health Res Policy Sys 19, 15 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12961-021-00678-1 Papatheodorou, K., Banach, M., Bekiari, E., Rizzo, M., & Edmonds, M. (2018). Complications of Diabetes 2017. Journal of diabetes research, 2018, 3086167. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/3086167 Staughton, J. (2021). 11 Impressive Benefits of Nopalese. Organic Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/nopales.html Trejo-González A, Gabriel-Ortiz G, Puebla-Pérez AM, Huízar-Contreras MD, Munguía-Mazariegos MR, Mejía-Arreguín S, Calva E. A purified extract from prickly pear cactus (Opuntia fuliginosa) controls experimentally induced diabetes in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 1996 Dec;55(1):27-33. doi: 10.1016/s0378-8741(96)01467-5. PMID: 9121164.

The world of research has worked tirelessly to bring us valuable health discoveries. With the aging population living longer, healthier, and happier lives, preventive measures, genetic health conditions, and healthy eating and supplementation are receiving more attention than ever. Health hacks are being optimized to fit into busy schedules while still enhancing wellness. This has led researchers to explore the benefits of utilizing electromagnetic (EM) waves in our daily lives. EM waves are created from the interaction between electric and magnetic fields. They are commonly used in healthcare for imaging, such as X-rays and MRI, as well as in radiotherapy and sometimes in physiotherapy. Years of research have shown that EM waves can be safely used for our health. Terahertz and Far-infrared Terahertz and far-infrared waves are situated next to microwaves on the EM spectrum and have been found to have numerous health benefits. Terahertz waves are non-ionizing and can penetrate various surfaces, altering and activating water and liquids in contact. This activated water has higher energy levels that help neutralize free radicals, increase metabolism, rejuvenate cells, improve gut health and skin conditions, and remove toxins more efficiently from the body. Far-infrared waves produce heat energy, which improves circulation, boosts the immune system, and reduces acidity in the body. Terahertz and far-infrared treated water or liquid particles become linearly structured with improved viscosity, which improves absorption.  Innovative Uses of Electromagnetic Waves The use of the right electromagnetic waves can bring significant benefits to our health. Combining the benefits of terahertz and far-infrared waves into a technology that fits into our lifestyle can have even greater benefits. Herbal Pharm's BetterU Disk is the solution you've been searching for. This unique ceramic alloy coaster has been infused with both terahertz and far-infrared electromagnetic waves. This attractive accessory for beverages can enhance your health by increasing the absorption of all your liquids, including supplements and medications. It has also been studied to improve the absorption of beauty serums and creams, leading to better overall health and skin condition. Faster wound healing, improved circulation, and increased energy are some of the benefits you'll experience. The most noticable change is in the taste and flavor of beverages, thanks to the release of amino acids that enhance the taste, improve the flavor, and increase the smoothness or palatability of food and liquids. Introducing this simple tool into your daily routine can greatly improve your health for years to come, and it is sustainable because it does not require daily charging. Start enhancing your wellness with electromagnetic fields today.