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Showing posts with label safe ingredients. Show all posts
Showing posts with label safe ingredients. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

My Pearl Of The Day : Menstrex natural menstrual relief





Menstrex is for women with higher levels of discomfort during their menstrual cycle. Menstrex is a softgel that contains beneficial essential oils.

Enteric coated softgels, which has a special coating to people who are sensitive to essential oils. The softgel will dissolve in the intestines rather than the stomach, eliminating aftertaste.

Relieves:  menstrual cramps, bloating, nausea, headache.

Menstrex is a great supplement for females who experience discomfort during their menstrual cycle. The reason I love the stuff is because the company Natural Miracles gave people (like me!) a safe, natural remedy to relieve the painful symptoms that come with menstrual cycles. Not only that, but I love that they  use effective and beneficial ingredients from the earth, not chemicals and other ingredients that you see in commercial menstrual-relief products that have devastating effects on our health. These days, I’m always looking for natural remedies to any health issue or problem I encounter because in my experiences (as I’ve shared many times with you guys), natural remedies are what have worked, when dr prescribed medication didn’t come close. 

The box of Menstrex supplements come with 20 softgels, which is great because that’s enough to last most of us through more than just one or two bad menstrual cycles, so having 20 per box means you have quite a bit to keep on-hand for when the ugly menstrual monster strikes.

“Our unique patented formula for women who experience higher levels of discomfort during Their Menstrual Cycle and would prefer to take an Enteric Coated Formula. Menstrex® is Menstrual Magic® Advanced which has been enteric coated.  It takes only a few minutes longer to dissolve because it is released in the intestines rather than the stomach.  We created this enteric coated formula for women who desire a product that can be taken without food, and also for those not accustomed to taking natural herbal supplements.”


As the back of the box says,“If you are one of the 40 million women in America who suffer with menstrual symptoms, Menstrex is for you.”

Other amazing things to take note of :
-          Menstrex is an enteric-coated formula.
-          Is easy to digest and swallow.
-          Provides natural relief that is long-lasting.
-          No aspirin or caffeine.
-          Made in U.S.A.
-          Is free of wheat, gluten, dairy, soybeans, egg, shellfish, peanuts/tree nuts.

Take note of those things above – many people will be happy to know that Menstrex does not contain wheat, gluten, dairy, and the other things listed. I particularly and happy about it being free of gluten and wheat. As for those with dairy allergies/sensitivities, you’ll be happy that it doesn’t contain dairy. Those with peanut/tree nut allergies will be as well. The makers of Menstrex (Natural Miracles) really thought of everyone when they created this product.

I took the Menstrex as directed (2 softgels) to help with cramps, headache and other stomach discomfort. After about 15 minutes, I burbed and was kind of surprised because it tasted like lemons big time! I thought "did I eat anything with lemons?" I didn't, but interesting enough, I actually liked that lemon taste! After about 30 minutes, I burped again, but this time it tasted like lemon and mint. It's pretty tasty, I must admit. These lemony-mint burps keep coming and I also noticed a cool sensation in my esophagus  and stomach for about 30 minutes. It was neat because it was like a relieving sensation and a coolness in my stomach. Note: the cooling sensation I feel from Menstrex is nothing like a burning sensation from being hungry or taking aspirin type products. That's a painful burn. Menstrex just feels like I ate a lemon and peppermint, only a real peppermint that actually has the real peppermint in it, not the fake sugar candies. That was a neat and fun side-effect, but more importantly, my stomach is trucking through this week just fine! Not a single cramp since the day I took the last Menstrex, which was three days ago & strangely and rarely enough, I've not had any problems to have to take more yet. Usually, I'll experience a week long of stomach pain and intense bloating/discomfort. Pains that sometimes have me doubled-over, clasping whatever's nearby me and holding my breath (partly due to endometriosis) and I've managed with no cramps or stomach pain in the slightest since I took the Menstrex! Amazing!

I also have migraines, especially during my week-long menstrual cycle. This is that week and I suffered very badly three days ago. I did notice the pain let up some when I took the Menstrex, but it was a full-blown migraine by the time I took the Menstrex, so I wasn't able to fully get rid of it until I took a nasty ol' BC Powder. It seemed that combined with the Menstrex, that really did the trick. Then, last night and tonight I had a headache come on -- no migraines though, thank God.

Menstrex and other Natural Miracles products come with a paper in the box that gives you a lot of nice info about the product as well as a questionnaire you can fill out with your feedback and send back to them.

Here is some of the important tips that are on the paper:
Menstrual cramps  are caused by a natural substance called prostaglandins that are produced by cells in the uterine lining. These prostaglandins are responsible for the normal contractions that occur at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. For some, prostaglandins are produced in excess. When this happens, normal uterine contractions can become unpleasant cramps. Women with menstrual cramps have significantly higher levels of prostaglandins than other women.

More on the product Menstrex:
Natural Miracles uses  pharmaceutical grade essential oils that are safe and very effective.
Select species of Wild Greek Sage, Spanish Oregano, Peppermint, Fennel and Cumin are hand-picked and processed using centuries-old methods along with state of the art technology to preserve maximum therapeutic properties.

How Menstrex works to bring relief:
Independent laboratory analysis and toxicity testing is performed on eac h species of oil twice for efficacy and safety – once after distillation and once after combining in a softgel. These herbs are rich sources of anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic compounds. They work by helping  lower prostaglandin levels  and relax the smooth muscles of the wall, so your cramps are relieved for hours.


The awesome ingredients in Menstrex:

Greek Sage : Greek Sage has been used to treat a lot of problems. Like most herbs, Greek Sage has more than just a few uses/benefits. One of the popular uses for Greek Sage is as a tea, to treat inflammation of the mouth (sores and sore throats), respiratory infection and headaches. In the 4th century, Sage was prescribed for gynecological issues.
 In the 1st Century, sage was used as a diuretic, to inhibit external bleeding and promote menstrual discharge.  Sage was used by Medieval Europeans to promote wisdom and improve memory.  In the middle ages, it was used against cholera, epilepsy and fever. 

Sage has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. 

Spanish Thyme : Spanish Thyme  is a diuretic, tonic, stimulant, etc. It contains forskolin, which has been used to help with respiratory issues, lung disease, glaucoma. Spanish Thyme tea is used for its effectiveness to help with inflammation, its laxative effects and to help with digestive problems. The juice of the leaves are also used to treat asthma, heart/stomach pain, coughs, bronchitis, problems that affect the bladder, kidneys, urinary diseases, to remove poisons from the body, colic, vaginal discharge, menstruation, scurvy, expels gas from stomach and bowels relieves sour stomach.  

 The leaves are also used externally to help with common insect bites, stings and more. 

Peppermint Leaf :  Peppermint Leaf has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Peppermint leaf is resistant to fungus and work to prevent fungal spores. Contains flavonoids and antioxidants. It has been used as a pain reliever. In animals, peppermint has shown to be protect the liver against certain toxins. Peppermint has been used, and said to have good results in helping IBS (I’ve dealt with severe IBS for years, which I’ve only recently gotten under control). Peppermint has a relaxing effect on muscle tissue, so it could also be good for spasms – such as bowel spasms in people with IBS. Some studies make the suggestion that is even has anticarcinogenic effects. Peppermint supports liver function, digestion.

Peppermint contains vitamin A and C, potassium, iron, and fiber.

Fennel Seed :  Fennel Seed is an effective remedy for coughs and bronchitis as it loosens mucus in the chest/lungs.  It relieves abdominal cramps, gas, bloating, it helps with digestion and to turn food into energy rather than fat. It’s very helpful for menstrual problems as well as menopause due to Fennel’s estrogenic properties. It helps balance the female reproductive system and can also help improve mental clarity

Cumin Seed :  Cumin Seed has benefits for the digestive system and has the ability to stimulate pancreatic enzymes . It may have anticarcinogenic effects, helps detoxify the liver.  Cumin contains a high amount of iron and manganese, and also contains calcium and magnesium.


Suggested use:
Take two or three softgels, 1-3 times per day. Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal with only a small amount of water. Do not exceed 8 softgels per day.
Supplement Facts
Serving size: 2 softgels.
Servings per container : 10.
Calories (per serving) : 5.6
Total carbs : 0.092 grams
Sugars : 0.092 grams.
Proprietary blend of essential oils of : 140 mg.
Greek Sage (leaf) :   + Daily Value not established.
Spanish thyme (leaf) : + Daily Value not established.
Peppermint (leaf ) :  +Daily Value not established.
Fennel (seed) :  +Daily Value not established
Cumin (seed) : +Daily Value not established

Other ingredients:  medium  chain tryglycerides (MCT oil) , extra virgin olive oil, gelatin, lemon oil, glycerin, purified water and enteric coating.



More information from the box of Menstrex:
The back is very informative, which I appreciate because I like to know as much as possible about a supplement I might take. The back gives you a lot of information about the Menstrex, lists what it does, how to use it and even the ingredients! I’ll include everything on the box below:
Doctor recommended Menstrex is a special blend of essential oils formulated in enteric-coated, easy to swallow softgels that help relieve cramps, bloating, nausea, headache and other symptoms associated with a woman’s menstrual cycle. “
Essential oils in a softgel. 

Natural Miracles, Inc. developed this natural formula based on centuries old Mediterranean tradition. 

Using state of the art technology, we capture essential oils known for their therapeutic properties and combine them to create this natural exclusive formula to help alleviate menstrual symptoms. 


And then there’s the pregnancy disclaimer: “if you are pregnant or nursing, considering pregnancy or have a medical condition, consult your health care practitioner before using. Do not use if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. Keep out of reach of children. 

Store Menstrex in a cool, dry place. 


Studies
Also included on the informative paper:  An independent study revealed that the essential oil blend in Menstrex had a dose dependent positive effect on the inhibition of prostaglandins. The results revealed 77.4++ 1/8% inhibition of PGF2a (prostaglandins). Another independent laboratory study was performed to determine the efficacy and safety of our pharmaceutical grade essential oils.”

Natural Miracles has another softgel that's designed to help with menstrual symptoms. It's very  similar to the Menstrex and is called Menstrual Magic. Menstrual Magic, I find, is about equally as effective as Menstrex. The only difference between the tow is Menstrex contains Fennel and Menstrual Magic does not.



Menstrual Magic sample packet















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Another product that I feel is going to be just as appreciated as Menstrex and Menstrual Magic is Menopause Magic. I personally can't say a whole lot about how exactly it does help Menopause as I've not gone through it. However, my mom has and she was impressed. She said she had better sleep when she took it and felt more comfortable -- night sweats can be real uncomfortable when you're trying to sleep! I can attest to that just due to having the flu once.

"Menopause Magic® is a natural essential oil blend combined with other natural herbal ingredients to help relieve a woman’s menopause symptoms.  If you suffer with hot flashes, night sweats, headache, backache, joint discomfort, low libido, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and other symptoms associated with menopause including reduced bone density, then Menopause Magic® is for you!  Just two softgels per day will support menopausal change."

Menopause Magic is similar to both Menstual Magic and Menstrex -- there is a difference in ingredients though, and after looking at them, I got the feeling that Menopause Magic would also benefit menstrual symptoms too! So if you happen to be out of the Menstrex or Menstrual Magic, I do think Menopause Magic would be useful. Let's take a look at the ingredients and supplement facts, though since they do vary more than a bit from the other two products...

Menopause Magic's Ingredients

Evening Primrose Oil  (140 mg)
Black Cohosh Standardized Extract (35 mg)
Calcium (25 mg)
Proprietary blend (87.5 mg)

Essential oils of:
Greek Sage (leaf)
Spanish Thyme (leaf)
Peppermint (leaf)
Fennel (seed)
Cumin (seed)
Anise (seed)

Supplement Facts:
 Calories : 3.00 (amount per serving)
 Total Fat : 0.20 g
 Total Carbs : 0.6 g
 Protein : 0.12

Serving size is 1 softgel.


 Notice that the Menopause Magic contains Evening Primrose Oil, which has an amazing reputation for being a very helpful herb for menstrual problems as well as menopause and even more. Menopause Magic also contains calcium, Anise and Black Cohosh Standardized Extract. I'll go into detail about their benefits. If you're interested in the others, just look above as they've been mentioned in this post.

 I don't have menopause, but my grandmother tried the Menopause Magic, and my mom too & my grandmother said it worked significantly well to improve symptoms of menopause. I asked if it helped with all the symptoms and she said yes, absolutely. As for my mom, she'd only taken it a couple times & said she slept better and noticed improvement, but didn't elaborate. So, for those who are curious about the Menopause Magic, I can say two of my family members have had great benefits.

Evening Primrose Oil: Benefits include pain relief since EPO contains a compound called phenylalanine that's known to relieve pain. It's used to relieve headaches and menstrual/menopausal and endometriosis symptoms and pains. It's even known to help with mood problems. It's an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and more.

The fatty acid in EPO is the reason for its healing properties. It's helps with joint pain, memory deficiencies and even nourishes nails and hair!

Black Cohosh Standardized Extract: Helps balance the reproductive hormones. Helpful for hot-flashes, night sweats, PMS pains. BCSE is a muscle relaxer, so it can also aid in muscle spasms.


Anise: Treats gastrointestinal problems like indigestion and heartburn, nausea and flatulence, hormonal imbalance and even respiratory problems. It's also helpful for insomnia and parasitic infections, reduces PMS symptoms and more.


Wednesday, July 25, 2012

BoneDri


  As you may have guessed, I AM definitely going to talk about arm pits. What, did you really think I wouldn't do something like that? Don't worry, I won't be crude.

  Bone-Dri is a deodorant with a pretty funny, but specific name. As the name tells you, this anti-perspirant is designed to keep you, well, bone-dri! 

  Bone-Dri is a clinical strength anti-perspirant for those who need something better than your average drugstore stuff. If you find your pits still damp or soaking wet after using your regular deodorant, Bone Dri is something you should certainly look into. If you not only find that your arm pits are wet, but smell like moma's onion casserole, you shouldn't just look into Bone-Dri, you should wear it. 

  I'm not exactly a big sweater, but I am someone who does not like to sweat. I find that my arm pits get damp easier when I'm cold rather than warm. Now when I'm steaming hot, like in this summer weather right now, Bone-Dri is my best friend. And my loved one's too since they do spend time around me and I tend to wear no sleeved tank tops! 

  Whether your arm pits sweat when your cold or hot, let's face it -- they sweat. Every single deodorant in the drugstores say "24 hour protection." Have you ever actually had 24 hours of protection though? I haven't. My regular deodorant, before Bone-Dri was Dove. Although I've tried em' all, even men's because I thought it'd be stronger. Nope. It only mixed with the sweat and created one heck of a scent.

  And last question. Do you get those sweat stains on your light colored t-shirts? My Lovie does and I have one shirt that happened to. 

  If so, Bone-Dri is your guy. Seriously. My arm pits are probably dehydrated if that's possible because they haven't sweated in about 2 weeks. 

  Now, back to my old deodorant habit. Dove, that's what I have used for a few years now. I like the creamy feel of it going on and how it doesn't leave my pits sticky, but soft. Until it dries up. But I liked the scent the most. However, let's rewind to a couple weeks ago when we took the kids to the aquarium at 12 in the afternoon. What lovely ideas my mother has, and perfect timing too. She insisted we go and deal with the heat. We're kind of in and out around my local aquarium. You go outside several times and it's like a little walk around because it's pretty area. Well, we done a lot of walking in the crazy heat, that's for sure.

 I was wearing Bone-Dri for the 3rd time that day. On our way there, I told my Lovie "now this will be Bone-Dri's true test here!" Because the extreme heat all day long. I was sure I'd break a pit sweat! I had used Bone-Dri the previous three days though, so I knew if I did end up sweating, it'd take some serious heat. I did figure it'd happen by the end of the day.

  Bone-Dri passed that heat test with super duper flying colors! Not even a damp pit did I have. I kept feeling under my arms to check and even sniffed when  the rest of my body was sweating like a pig in a slaughter house--sorry, bad joke. I smelled like skin! No scent at all. Not even the tiniest and I have my partner who can vouch for me. He was brave enough to put his nose where no nose has gone before--my arm pit! Now that's Bone-Dry!

  All joking aside though, this is one impressive deodorant. I'd recommend it to the entire world. 

  Now that I couldn't resist telling my story and experience/opinion first, we'll get to the other details. 

  Bone-Dri is slightly different from your typical anti-perspirant. Instead of smelling like oceans or baby powder (ick) or old spice (ick), I notice a subtle peppermint scent when I first put it on. That is because it contains peppermint oil.

  Also, as you'll see in my photos, Bone-Dri is a liquidy deodorant, not a powder or cream. It has a roller ball for quick and efficient application. 

  Since I was used to the creamy Dove deodorant, it took a few days to get used to the wet, rolly Bone-Dri. It also took me some time to get used to that cool sensation in my arm pits due to the peppermint oil. Nothing bad or intense, but it feels cool until it dries. 

  More great news! Bone-Dri doesn't leave white streaks on your clothing. I tested that too. 

  The ultimate question: HOW long does Bone-Dri actually last?

  Well, I can say it lasts for longer than 24 hours because I didn't shower until about 29 hours one day last week and didn't have problems. By the time nighttime comes, my arm pits feel funny. It bothers me because it's a strange feeling from where my other deodorant would dry. Bone-Dri doesn't leave a strange feeling at any time. 

  The description on Klima Deodorant says "There's no match for Bone-Dri's odor destroying properties..." And "Bone-Dri is the world's strongest & best." I would actually go so far as to say it's true. 

  You know that newer expensive stuff at drugstores that says "prescription strength"? Bone-Dri does in fact, do a far, far better job. 

  As for prescription deodorant, I used some one time and I didn't notice anything different from the drugstore stuff. Hence the reason I used it one time. Bone-Dri probably is truly the world's strongest/best.

  The bottle Bone-Dri comes in is a 44 ML rolly ball bottle with screw-on lid. You can travel with it, toss it in your purse with no spillage.

  Now, there's only one thing that I don't totally adore about Bone-Dri -- it does contain parabens & aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex like most deodorant. However, since I was using dove before, I can't complain about that because Bone-Dri does far, far exceed any other deo.

  However, Bone-Dri does NOT contain Triclosan, talc.

  The Peppermint and lavendar essential oil is a fabulous ingredient since it's a natural way to really, really prevent odor! 

   Ingredients: Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex gly 20%  -  (water, aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, laureth-4, laureth-23, glycine, magnesium aluminum silicate, isopropyl alcohol, isopropyl myristate, fragrance, glyceryl stearate, essential oil of peppermint, essential oil of lavender, methylparaben, propylparaben)



Is it worth Klima Deodorant's $13? 
So very absolutely and entirely worth it.