How We Can Source & Incorporate Nutrient-Dense Herbs into our Diets to Maximize Health

Speaker: Dr. Cyndi Gilbert, NDWritten by: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview:

It is a great misconception that weeds that grow in our gardens are “the enemy.” Dr. Cyndi Gilbert a naturopathic doctor states that weeds are herbs, a food, which add flavour to our meals, providing us with minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Weeds help prevent diseases as they are easily absorbed and aid in supporting our health. Why weeds you may ask, simply put they are accessible, local, free, nutritious and sustainable. The following are just a few brief examples of uses and health benefits of some edible weeds:

Weed	Available Nutrients/Vitamins/Minerals & Effects	Medical Benefits	Disadvantages
Dandelion	- Greens: ↑ in beta-carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin K &                  Iron - Roots:   ↑ in fiber (inulin) & Iron           - Gentle laxative            - Improves fat digestion & reduces cholesterol    - Leaves: Diuretic effects	Can assist in the management of: - Acne, Eczema - PMS - Constipation, UTI - Anemia - High Blood Pressure
Lamb Quarters	- ↑ in Calcium, Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C,   Vitamin K - Laxative effects		- ↑ in Oxalates (increases risk of Kidney stones when raw)
Red Clover	- ↑ in phytoestrogens (isoflavones), Calcium,    Magnesium, Phosphorous & Potassium	Hormone balancing effects - ↓Hot Flashes - Prevents breast  cancer recurrence - Possibly prevents  osteoporosis
Stinging Nettle	- ↑ in Iron & Vitamin C - Helps rehabilitate toxic soils        - Because it can move minerals and nitrogen               in soil - Boosts milk supply in dairy cows - Gives other flowers or plants there scent  (e.g. gives  peppermint, and lavender there smell)	Can be used in management of: - Frostbite - Acne, eczema - Anemia - Hair Loss - Arthritis, Gout   - Hay Fever - UTI - Root: used for  prostate health	- Stings when     touched     (no longer stings   once dry)   - Handle with         gloves
Burdock	- ↑ in fiber (lingnins, Inulin), prebiotics - Metabolic Effects	Can be used in management of: - Diabetes Mellitus  (controls insulin   levels) - Eczema
Garlic Mustard	- Antimicrobial, antibiotics	Can be used for: - Colds/Flu

There are many herbs/herbal supplements available to us as consumers. However unless we are the ones harvesting these herbs on our own, we cannot be sure of the environmental conditions and the quality of soil that these herbs were grown under. Therefore although there are many advantages of consuming herbs, we must take extra precaution when purchasing herbs from an external source. The best way to ensure we are consuming high quality herbs, is to gain access to information about sourcing, soil quality and growing conditions. This will ensure that we benefit from all of the valuable effects that herbs have to offer, under ideal conditions.

Discussion questions:

1.     Does the way in which the herbs are prepared affect the amount of nutrients one is able to extract out of them?

Herbs should be exposed to some heat in order to get rid of any harmful toxins present within it. Weed roots have the ability to pick up toxins from its surrounding environment. Therefore herbs should be slightly sautéed to eradicate any toxins, but should not be overcooked as to cook out all of its beneficial nutrients.

2.     Plant foods contain oxalic acid, why are people afraid to consume raw greens because of it?

Oxalic acid binds with certain nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, sodium and potassium in the body. This forms an oxalate composite in the form of kidney stones. The long-term consumption of foods high in oxalic acid can lead to nutrient deficiencies.

It is important to know which foods contain oxalic acid. Specifically roots and leaves of rhubarb or lambs quarters contain high concentrations of oxalic acid. According to Dr. Gilbert, adding vinegar to these particular roots during preparation, decreases the amount of oxalic acid consumed.

3. Does consuming herbs affect pregnancy and lactation negatively?

Most herbs used in cooking are safe during pregnancy and lactation; however it is important to know that there are some herbs that decrease milk supply. Consuming herbs in large quantities can also be detrimental during pregnancy and should be consumed in moderation. These include:

- Aloe - Fennel - Fenugreek - Kava Kava

- Periwinkle Herb - Oregano - Parsley - Thyme

- Peppermint/Menthol/Spearmint - Sage - Licorice - Rhubarb (root)

4.     If your diet consists heavily of herbs, how might it interact with medications?

Most people are unaware that herbs can negatively interact with medications. The herb can cause increasing or decreasing amounts of the medication in the bloodstream. The herb could prevent the drug from getting into the bloodstream by stimulating an enzyme to degrade the medication and eliminate it from the body. This causes a decreased amount of the medication within the body. Some herbs can aid in inhibiting the enzyme responsible for metabolizing and excreting a drug. This causes increased amounts of the medication in the body. The above situations demonstrate how herbs can either cause a medication to appear ineffective or produce side effects.

Some herbs may produce opposite or similar effects as the medication thus reducing or increasing the drug effects respectively. According to Dr. Gilbert a prime example would be a diabetic patient on insulin, who also consumes large amounts of burdock. Burdock is a root that also aids in controlling insulin. The interaction of both the insulin medication and the burdock root may cause an increase in the insulin-like effects causing the patient to become hypoglycemic, which can be life-threatening.  

Some examples of how herbs can interact with medications are included below:

Herb	Medications/ Drug Classes	Drug Interaction Effects
Echinacea	- Anabolic Steroids - Methotrexate	- Liver Inflammation
Ephedra	- Antidepressants - Antihypertensives	- ↑↑ Blood Pressure & Heart Rate - Death in some individuals
Feverfew	- Anticoagulants	- ↑ Bleeding
Garlic	- Anticoagulants	- ↑Bleeding
Ginger	- Anticoagulants	- ↑ Bleeding
Ginkgo	- Warfarin	- ↑ Bleeding
Ginseng	- Warfarin	- ↓ effectiveness of Warfarin
Kava-Kava	- Anti-epileptics	- ↑ effectiveness of anti-epileptics
	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetics
	- Alcohol	- Enhances alcoholic effects
St John’s Wort	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetics
	- Warfarin	- ↓ effectiveness of Warfarin
Valerian	- Anti-epileptics	- ↑ effects of anti-epileptics
	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetic agents

Sources:

Dharmananda, Subhuti, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine,. "DRUGS AND NURSING." On Taking Herbs While Breastfeeding. N.p., n.d. (http://www.itmonline.org/arts/breast.htm.) 10 June 2016.

Dharmananda, Subhuti, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine. "HERBALS AND DRUG

INTERACTIONS." Checking for Possible Herb-Drug Interactions. N.p., n.d. (http://www.itmonline.org/arts/herbdrug2.htm.) 10 June 2016.

Herrington, Diana. "Oxalic Acid Controversy." Real Food For Life. N.p., n.d. (http://realfoodforlife.com/oxalic-acid-controversy/.) 10 June 2016.

"In Defense of Oxalic Acid." In Defense of Oxalic Acid. N.p., n.d. (http://www.dewsworld.com/InDefenseofOxalicAcid.html.) 10 June 2016.

Plastic Sex Toys & Safer Alternatives

Speaker: Tracey TiefWritten by: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview

Sexual pleasure is a topic that society considers taboo. According to Tracy TieF, a certified natural health practitioner, she believes that sexual pleasure is our birthright. She urges people to be aware of toxic sex toys and the potentially harmful effects of their materials. The sex toy industry is unregulated and so many are unaware of the potential health risks associated with the use of these products.

The main concern is the use of phthalates, a chemical used in adhesives, paint, insect repellents, polyvinyl chloride plastic, children’s toys and cosmetics such as nail polish and perfumes. Phthalates, also known as plasticizers, are added to the plastic sex toy to make the toy softer and more flexible. Overtime these added phthalates leak out in a process called "off-gassing", which may be ultimately absorbed into the body.

According to Tracey, plastics can modify the fats and oils in our bodies. Fats are necessary for energy storage and act as a cushion for the brain. The argument is that if they were to be ingested or absorbed into the bloodstream, the off-gassing could modify these fats, potentially contributing to hormonal and neuronal disruptions. She believes that the hormonal disruption can contribute to reproductive issues, such as polyps and ovarian cysts, and are linked with the usage of sex toys due to the effects of phthalates and the permeability of the vaginal wall. Human studies are limited on the effects that these materials have.

What has been found is that these materials do have an overwhelmingly reproductive inhibiting effect. One study conducted by Hans Ulrich Krieg in 2000, a German chemist, found 10 chemicals emitted out of sex toys that were available in Europe. Of the chemicals found, diethylhexyl phthalates was among them and contained concentrations as high as 243,000 ppm, a value that was considered 'off the charts'. Phthalates are lipophilic substances, and therefore are drawn to fats. The theory is that the fat could aid in drawing the phthalates out of the plastic, and would be absorbed into the mucous membrane of the vaginal canal and rectum and eventually even be absorbed by the liver or kidney. In another study led by Greenpeace Netherlands, in 2006 found that vaginal or rectal exposure to these chemicals would cause endocrine disruption, fertility issues and may lead to certain types of cancer. The American FDA cites phthalates as a probable human carcinogen. Animal studies found that high doses of phthalates cause cancer in rats. In lower doses, the rats displayed problems with genital and fetal development, producing stillborn rats. Regardless of the limited studies, based on what evidence is presented, the FDA and Greenpeace state that these chemicals do pose a health risk to the population.

Currently, North America and the European Union have been able to take actions that restrict the use of phthalates in children’s toys; however the issue still remains to exist for adult toys. According to Tracey, the loop hole lies in semantics. The packaging labels these products as “novelty” products, which means not intended for actual use. This allows manufacturers to avoid legal responsibility for what health risks may occur contributed to by the potentially harmful materials, and this industry labeling practice enables manufacturers to sidestep the need for government regulations. Therefore, manufacturers are not obligated to provide product lists of chemicals and materials used.

So what would a toxic-free, safer sex toy look like?

Firstly, the toy would not contain any strong chemical odours. If the toy is held over a flame it should not burn or melt. If it did burn, some percentage of plastic exists.  Additionally, it would not contain any plastic, rubbery or jelly-like material and there should not be any expiration dates on the packaging. If the material is more porous, it could create space that may allow for bacteria to become trapped. Tracey also noted that porous toys cannot be sterilized and should be used with a condom. A non-porous toy is likely a stainless steel that is smooth with an impermeable surface and does not harbor bacteria in its surface. It can be sterilized with boiling water or through a dishwasher. Finally, alternate materials that can be safely used are as follows: wood, stone, metal, glass, non-porous, medical grade silicone, ceramics and crystal.

Discussion Questions

1.       What are plasticizers and why are they used in cosmetics?

Plasticizers make plastics more flexible. It’s used to make the fragrance in cosmetics, personal care products and baby products last longer.

1.       Why is Bisphenol A added to plastic products?

BPA aids in making plastic clear and shatter proof.

1.       What are the effects of Bisphenol A (BPA) and Phthalates on children when ingested?

Children’s products such as teethers, sippy cups, toys and cleansing baby products contain BPA and Phthalates. When children put these items in their mouth the chemical has the potential to leak from the product to the child. Animal studies have shown that BPA can have developmental effects and adverse effects on reproduction. Animal studies show that phthalate exposure can cause liver, kidney, male and female reproductive system adverse effects. Specifically when phthalates were exposed to fetuses in the mother’s womb, it caused decreased sperm activity, decreased concentration, early puberty in females and testicular cancer. According to Tracey, it can contribute to asthma, autism and learning disorders in children. Unfortunately, the evidence is taken from mostly animal studies and human studies are limited.    

Sources:

"Bisphenol-A (BPA)." Westchester Gov.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (http://health.westchestergov.com/bisphenol-a-and-phthalates)

Canadian Cancer Society. "Phthalates - Canadian Cancer Society." Www.cancer.ca. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (http://www.cancer.ca/en/prevention-and-screening/be-aware/harmful-substances-and-environmental-risks/phthalates/?region=on )

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015. Web. 24 June 2016. (http://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/phthalates_factsheet.html)

Chemical Substances. Phthalate Substance Grouping. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016.

(http://www.chemicalsubstanceschimiques.gc.ca/group/phthalate/index-eng.php)

Denning, Burke. "The Safety Dance: Sex Toy Safety for a New Generation." Kinsey Confidential RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (http://kinseyconfidential.org/safety-dance-sex-toy-safety-generation/)

Gertz, Emily. "Ever Thought about the Toxins in Your Sex Toys?" Grist. N.p., 2005. Web. 24 June 2016.

http://grist.org/article/gertz1/

"Plasticisers (phthalates) and Bisphenol A (BPA)." BabyCenter Canada. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016.

(http://www.babycenter.ca/a1037227/plasticisers-phthalates-and-bisphenol-a-bpa)