NAC – willpower in a capsule

April 8, 2010 by Jurgen

There has been some ground breaking research done over the last three years into a natural product called NAC or N-acetylcysteine, as it is known technically. The research shows that NAC may help restore an imbalance in the part of the brain that deals with cravings and addictions. This part of the brain is called the nucleus accumbens. NAC may help to restore extracellular glutamate concentration in the nucleus accumbens. This may sound very grand and scientific, but it basically means NAC may have the potential to help the brain to switch off the desire to smoke by correcting a chemical imbalance.

The possibility for use in other areas of addiction (drugs, alcohol, gambling etc.) is very exciting. It is to be hoped the scientific community continue the research into this potentially life changing natural product.

NAC+ capsules, which also contain glutamine, cinnamon and chromium can also be effective to combat food cravings (which can be a problem when trying to quit smoking).

Cookery Demonstrations

January 11, 2010 by Jurgen

Cookery Demonstrations with Jess Keane: Detox

Too much wine and too many chocolates over Christmas? Get a simple three step approach to a healthy and effective detox using real food and easy, delicious recipes full of goodness. Handouts will include quick and tempting recipes and a shopping list.

Tannery Cookery School, Dungarvan – Friday, January 15th 2010, 7-9pm
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Echinacea effective against swine flu virus

December 11, 2009 by Jurgen

New laboratory research carried out by A.Vogel has shown, for the first time, that fresh Echinacea extract is highly effective against the swine flu virus. Recent studies showed Echinacea purpurea fresh plant extract inhibits the H1N1 ‘Mexico influenza’ virus, with the ability to inactivate the infectiousness by over 99%. The pioneering laboratory-based research also worked against bird flu and all other examined influenza viruses. They carried out the ‘in vitro’ infection model on five influenza A strains.

The group of international researchers found the pattern of activity provides support for the already widely accepted use of Echinacea extracts to help relieve symptoms in people affected by the flu virus, of which swine flu is a variant.

They believe Echinacea works by inhibiting the binding of the virus to cells, interfering with the way viruses enter cells. And no resistance was observed.

Prof. Dr. Stephan Pleschka, of the Institute of Medicinal Virology, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany, said: “Purple coneflower (Echinacea) in particular has been found to have the ability to prevent common colds and influenzas and treat them in acute cases. Our latest research has now shown that this effect is attributable to an antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect.”

The research paper is available online at > www.virologyj.com/content/6/1/197