Negative Ions Skin Benefits and How Negative Ions Improve Your Health

Both positive and negative ions contribute to life and are very necessary. Air minus these elements is neutral air and won’t sustain life.

But too many people constantly expose themselves to a positive ion poisoned atmosphere. In today’s modern lifestyle, we constantly deprive ourself of negative ions benefits. It contributes to disease. Living a more natural life gives us the antidote. It’s how we reap negative ions benefits both for skin and health.

Are negative ions good for you?

Negative ions benefits truly exist even if their concentration is high. Nature creates them as air molecules break apart. This breaking apart action happens as a result of sunlight, radiation, ultraviolet rays, the vital energy of plants, and moving air and crashing water.

Studies show exposure to negatively ionized air increases oxygenation of the lungs and the vital capacity of lungs’ ciliary(1) activity.

Negative ions benefits help to relieve headaches and respiratory conditions and even assist to regulate blood pressure.

Regular exposure to negative ions in nature generates a sense of profound well-being.

Skin and your anti-aging efforts benefit enormously from exposure to negative ions. (Read on for those important details.)

Partake of the mystique of quantum energetic formulated plant-based skincare for your exalted natural beauty and well-being. Subscribe for a discount promo code, plus get truly unique beauty tips and offers.

Here’s how negative ions occur in the example of the thunderstorm:

After a thunderstorm raindrops strike the earth. Water droplets split into larger positively charged particles and smaller negatively charged particles. And the smaller negative particles repel from earth’s negative surface back up into the air (negative repels negative).

As electrons leave water molecules they attach themselves to oxygen molecules. Once an atom or molecule acquires more electrons than protons it instantly becomes a negative ion.

Science calls this natural action the Lenard effect named for German physicist Philipp Eduard Anton Lenard. Although he didn’t discover negative ions Lenard did scientifically prove that air is negatively charged in certain natural conditions like the waterfall.

Negative ions benefits and health go hand in hand. They give us enormous health benefits based on increased energy and vitality. We can say this because naturally occurring negative ions in air, ground, plants and water enhance our own internal electrical conductivity.

The more you daily expose yourself to the negative ions benefits from these natural sources, the more energy and vitality you’ll enjoy.

Earth’s sand, soil, grass abound with negative ions that raise from the rocks underground. The sun, cosmic radiation and lightning strikes also offer us negative ions. They float in the air and also go into the natural ground surface under our feet.

Depending on what time of day you choose to enjoy sunlight, you’ll subject your skin and body to either positive ion harm or negative ions benefits. The sun emits different light frequencies and energy depending on its height and trajectory in the sky.

The midday sun causes major proton generation dumping masses of positive hydrogen ions into the atmosphere. These positive ions pelt your eyes and skin.

It’s better to enjoy either the sunrise or sunset because both generate a copious buffer of negative ions benefits.

Or connect your bare skin with the ground to absorb vitality generating negative ions. Walk barefoot or lay down on the ground for at least 15 minutes at a time. We call this action earthing or grounding—your natural gateway to negative ions benefits.

As soon as your skin makes contact with organic negative ion surfaces, you create a natural pressure gradient between the negatively charged earth and your body. Negative ions immediately transfer into your body through the skin for as long as you keep skin and body and the negatively charged medium in contact.

Negative Ions Skin Benefits: Better Circulation of the 5 Fluids

Contrary to synthetic ingredient skincare devoid of negative ions skin benefits, PHYTO5 5-element quantum energetic skincare is naturally formulated. PHYTO5 skincare is rich with natural plant-based hero ingredients—bringing negative ions skin benefits right to your skin.

PHYTO5 skincare works to balance the five fluids present in skin for improved radiance and exalted natural beauty. Almost without even trying, PHYTO5 deliver negative ions skin benefits to your skin.

Each of these five fluids corresponds to one of the five elements in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). And each of these five fluids, especially when balanced, offer you negative ions skin benefits.

The five fluids are:

1. vital energy: energetic Spring and the Wood element

2. red blood: energetic Summer and the Fire element

3. lymph: each of the four 18-day transition periods of the Earth element, bridging one of the other four seasons to the next

4. blue blood: energetic Fall and the Metal element

5. water: energetic Winter and the Water element.

Grounding improves circulation of both red and blue blood so necessary for skin health.

By improving circulation, negative ions skin benefits also include improved lymphatic flow.

Lymph is a colorless fluid containing white blood cells that bathes tissues and drains through the lymphatic system into the bloodstream. Radiant skin health and beauty demand good lymph flow.

Earthing also supports the flow of vital energy which is another requisite for natural beauty and skin health. It enhances cellular health vital to skin. (And it also supports good brain function.)

Negative ions you naturally absorb also supports you to maintain moisture balance in body and skin.

Negative Ions Skin Benefits: Balanced pH

Negative ions also help restore an optimal pH level important for health and skin. It shifts your body’s indicators blood acid-base balance to alkaline.

Lay on the earth or walking barefoot on it for several minutes a day and help alkalize your skin.

Negative Ions Skin Benefits: Counteract Harmful Positive Ions in Some Skincare Contains

Many cosmetics, fragrances, shampoos, conditioners and body washes are formulated with synthetic ingredients with a plethora of harmful positive ions.

They bombard skin, hair and body with too many positive ions. Fluoride toothpastes generate many positive ions.

It makes complete sense to use only natural skin, hair and personal care products if you want to reduce your exposure to positive ion bombardment.

Negative Ions Skin Benefits: Mitigating Signs of Aging

Theoretically, if skin cells contain positively ion charged free radicals and they do, then negative ions should slow signs of aging and cell damage. This is because negative ions bond to free radicals that hold a positive charge.

Since skin is permeable to negative ions, it better absorbs the nourishment from quality natural skin care products. These naturally formulated products also help you maintain moisture in skin. Radiant dewey skin looks younger.

Negative Ions Skin Benefits: Accelerated Wound Healing

Studies demonstrate accelerated wound healing when the wound’s exposed to negative ions. Negative ions skin benefits include rapid closure of the wound beginning at skin level.

One among them, a 1986 study published in General Physiology and Biophysics, showed that accelerated wound healing occurred in rats whose skin was exposed to negative ions for three hours.

The researchers also found that harmful microorganisms (Clostridium perfringens and Staphylococcus aureus) proliferated on oxygen deprived skin. Negative ions pulsed onto the injured tissue immediately killed the harmful microorganisms.

Are negative ions good for you? Absolutely. Stay away from these positive ion generators.

Unfortunately, positive ion poisoned atmospheres form the foundation of today’s modern living. Western technology is distorting the electrical charge of the air we breathe. So we need to take proactive measures against this.

Here's a list of positive ion generating offenders:

• man-made fragrances and chemicals

• modern structures of concrete, steel, plastic

• mobile phones

• cell towers

• power lines

• office buildings with central heat and A/C

• hermetically sealed high-rise apartments

• automobile exhaust fumes

• off gassing of man-made plastics, paint, etc.

• factory fumes

• airplanes

• synthetic fibers

• smoking

• air pollution

• industrial waste

• state-of-the-art insulation (actually prevents negative ions from entering the building)

…

Endnotes:

(1) Cilia are small slender hair-like structures on the surface of all mammalian cells. They play a major role in locomotion as they move water to the cell in a regular movement.

Sources:

Donsbach Ph.D., D. Sc., N. D., D. C., Kurt W. Dr. Donsbach Tells You What You Always Wanted to Know About Negative Ions. The International Institute of Natural Health Science. Huntington Beach, CA. 1981.

Mindell R.Ph., M. H., Ph. D., Earl. The Happiness Effect: The Positive Benefits of Negative Ions. Square One. November 2015.

Matadeen, Harry. Negative Ions: The Grand Unifier Of Health And Life. Self-published. September 2019.

Robertson, Sheena. “Negative Ions and Anti Aging.” Guardian Liberty Voice, 4 Dec. 2020, guardianlv.com/2020/12/negative-ions-and-anti-aging/. 

“Role of Vegetation in Enhancing Radon Concentration and Ion Production in the Atmosphere.” Environmental Science & Technology, pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es201152g. 

Silica Rich Horsetail: Very Beneficial for Anti-Aging Skin and Hair Care

Horsetail extract (Equisetum arvense), one of the most important ‘cosmetic herbs,’ can be found in PHYTO5’s Facial Cleansing Gel and Water element Phyt’Ether serum and Horsetail-Buckwheat Shampoo. Horsetail is a very rich source of silica and a basic component of hair, skin and nails. The silica in horsetail (70% silica in soluble form) is very bio-available making horsetail an extremely effective constituent in skincare and nutritional supplementation.

Silica rich horsetail is very beneficial for use in anti-aging and acne skincare products. Horsetail in PHYTO5’s Water element Phyt’Ether serum for skin, scalp and body works to soften lines and firm and tone. Because of its silica content it promotes elasticity and helps rejuvenate skin. This potent ingredient also acts as astringent tightening the skin.

Horsetail helps cleanse the body of impurities and excess water and as a result reduces swelling and puffiness while restoring color to the skin. It helps strengthen the kidneys, the organ associated with the Water element according to traditional Chinese medicine.

It can help heal skin damaged by fungal diseases, allergies and rashes such as eczema, skin irritated by shaving or disfigured by acne or blemishes.

Horsetail also improves the health of brittle fingernails and cuticles.

PHYTO5’s Water element Horsetail-Buckwheat Shampoo provides horsetail as a perfect primary unique ingredient because it gives body to lifeless hair and improves the condition of the scalp. It naturally helps create lather for the shampoo and acts on scalp's blood vessels to stimulate 1) circulation in the scalp; 2) the function of silica and sulfur which are both anti-seborrhea;* 3) the function of the amino acid cystine which acts as a bridge in the structure of hair.

Horsetail discourages dandruff and restores scalp oil glands to their proper working order. It’s known to hasten the scalp’s recovery from rashes, fungal diseases and allergic reactions and it helps to prevent hair loss.

Research shows that plants that have adapted to survive in difficult conditions often contain phytochemicals with medicinal value to humans and horsetail is one of those plants. The fern plant horsetail has been used medicinally by Native Americans, Tibetans, the Chinese and ancient Greeks and Romans. 

Horsetail when used for skin is also stimulating, soothing, healing, and nourishing. It assists skin to increase its own defense mechanism. Because of its rich mineral content, it helps regulate the skin. The silicic acid present in horsetail makes it able to strengthen connective tissue and capillary walls..

Additional constituents of horsetail extract are amino acids citruline (antioxidant and skin conditioning agent), valine (tissue recovery and repair), lysine (collagen builder), serine (natural moisturizing agent) and asparaginic acid (strengthens skin’s natural defense system and helps slow signs of aging caused by environmental damage).

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Endnotes:

* working against excessive discharge of sebum from the sebaceous glands

Michalun, M. Varinia, and Joseph C. Dinardo. Milady Skin Care and Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary. Milady, 2015. 

Arrowsmith, Nancy. Essential Herbal Wisdom A Complete Exploration of 50 Remarkable Herbs. Llewellyn Publications. 2009

Bio-dynamic Farming and Gardening Association. Bio-dynamics Issues 182-202. Cornell University. 1992.

Jones, Pamela. Just Weeds: History, Myths and Uses. Prentice Hall Press. 2009.

Schoffro Cook, Michelle. Be Your Own Herbalist Essential Herbs for Health, Beauty, and Cooking. New World Library. 2016.

Photo by Julia Schwab at Pixabay.

Green Tea: Powerful In Treating a Variety of Skin Conditions and Elevating Our Vitality and Well-Being

Green tea extract is effectively absorbed through the skin and provides skin with a whole host of nourishing, protective and age mitigating actions. Skin has measurably more health, vibrancy, elasticity and firmness after continued application of green tea containing skincare. This is why green tea is a vital unique ingredient in PHYTO5’s Earth element Yogi Body Gel, a product that effectively reduces the appearance of ‘orange peel thighs’ or cellulite.

More than 150 in vitro and in vivo studies have reported the benefits of green tea for skin. A number of mechanisms in green tea appear to be responsible.

Green tea extracts play a protective role in preventing free radical damage that may result in skin tumors, cancers and DNA damage (Chiu and Kimball, 2003).

The methylxanthines(1) in green tea extracts help stimulate skin microcirculation and therefore influence skin’s health. For this reason, green tea polyphenols can be used as an anti-aging ingredient in skincare as it fights inflammation that induces premature aging.

Green tea is a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and vulnerary (wound healer), studies show.

The research also shows that green tea extract “can be exploited against a variety of skin disorders. Although more clinical studies are needed, supplementation of skin care products with green tea may have a profound impact on various skin disorders in the years to come.” —S. K. Katiyar et al in “Green Tea and Skin”

Green tea’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties makes it effective against acne and oily skin. When green tea is applied to the skin, its polyphenols(2) help reduce sebum secretion which may lead to acne.

Green tea contains polyphenolic compounds also known as epicatechins(3) which are antioxidant in nature. These polyphenols have been found to limit the rate of cell death when cells are vigorously exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The polyphenols in green tea protect the cells against damage from sunlight and reddening of the skin. Research has proven that topical application of green tea to skin one half hour before ultraviolet light exposure protects the user against sunburn and epidermal damage (Elmets et al 2001). The effect is largely due to EGCG (the catechin,(4) Epigallocatechin gallate), a primary polyphenol in green tea. EGCG is 20 times more powerful than vitamin E as a free radical neutralizing antioxidant.

In fact, Dr. Andrew Weil(5) found that EGCG in green tea shows “impressive activity against many kinds of cancer, while appearing to protect the heart and arteries from oxidative damage.” It contributes to a healthy heart and even blood pressure as it works on strengthening the lining of the blood vessels.

Those who consistently drink green tea are shown to have greater dilation of the arteries on ultrasound 30 minutes after drinking the tea compared to those drinking simple hot water or a diluted caffeine beverage. Slightly less than 1/4 ounce of green tea consumed daily or three to four cups of tea per day is all that’s required to achieve healthier cardiovascular function.

In addition, you get a healthy dose vitamin C when consuming green tea–approximately 280 mg in every 3.5 ounces of raw tea.

One 2009 Japanese scientific study conducted by Tokushima Bunri University found that green tea is able to effectively fight against the H1N1 influenza virus.

In addition to protecting cells and organs including skin, consuming green tea helps reduce stress and assists to creates balance of body and mind acting like a natural medicine.

Besides drinking green tea for its enjoyment or applying topically to the skin, green tea is beneficial to:

• Curb an overactive appetite by drinking one cup before meals

• Fertilize plants with leftover green tea leaves from steeping tea

• Prevent or lessen dental cavities

• Refresh the mouth since its tannin content removes stickiness and bad breath, also killing bacteria

• Deodorize and freshen the air (by simply boiling some on your stovetop)

• Stimulate the mind and mental faculties

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(1) A naturally occurring mild stimulant

(2) A type of naturally occurring plant antioxidative compound that protects the body's tissues against oxidative stress and associated pathologies such as cancers, coronary heart disease and inflammation.

(3) One of the most abundant flavonoids (plant pigments) present in different fruits such as apples, blackberries, broad beans, cherries, grapes, pears, raspberries, cocoa, and also in tea leaves.

(4) Natural antioxidants that help prevent cell damage among other benefits

(5 )Andrew Weil, MD is founder and director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, where he also holds the Lovell-Jones Endowed Chair in Integrative Rheumatology, and is Clinical Professor of Medicine and Professor of Public Health.

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Endnotes:

Juneja, Lekh R., et al. Green Tea Polyphenols: Nutraceuticals of Modern Life. CRC Press, 2016. 

Chiu, A., and Kimball, A. B. 2003. Topical vitamins, minerals and botanical ingredients as modulators of environmental and chronological skin damage. Br J Dermatol, 149; 681-691.

Braun, Lesley, and Marc Cohen. Essential Herbs & Natural Supplements. Elsevier Australia, 2017. 

Kayaki, Toshimi A. Green Tea Living: a Japan-Inspired Guide to Eco-Friendly Habits, Health and Happiness. Stone Bridge, 2010. 

H;, Katiyar SK;Ahmad N;Mukhtar. “Green Tea and Skin.” Archives of Dermatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10926734/. 

CA;, Katiyar SK;Elmets. “Green Tea Polyphenolic Antioxidants and Skin Photoprotection (Review).” International Journal of Oncology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11351267/. 

Photo pouring green tea by Tima Miroshnichenko at Pexels

Essential Oils: Regenerative Wonders of Nature for Skin and Body

Essential oils can be used to help positively shift many health conditions. Though they are not a miracle cure for all ailments they can be used in a strategic holistic way to help bring balance back to the body and assist us to regain higher levels of health.

Humans have long consumed plants for their healing value. Plants and their highly concentrated essences–essential oils–can be used to complement and support whole food diets that aim to uplift physical vitality. We are meant to consume hundreds of different plant species each year and not just a handful. The more diverse our plant consumption is, the greater our resiliency and vitality.

As your body digests plants, thousands of metabolites–substances produced when the body breaks down food and chemicals–are absorbed by the gut into the bloodstream. These metabolites have a major impact on our risk of diseases: cardiovascular, autoimmune, mental imbalances, obesity, diabetes and even cancer. These metabolites created through the digestion of a wide array of plants contribute to how our cells create our internal chemistry of life. We will create a more perfect chemistry of life when the thousands of metabolites streaming through our bodies come from a great diversity of plant life.

Essential oils contain the key components of the plants’ immune systems. The oils assist the plants to grow, thrive, evolve and adapt to their surroundings and what essential oils do for the plants, they can do for us also. Humans have a shared chemistry with plants. Both plants and humans are made of three primary elements–carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. The oil of the plant protects the plant from bacterial and viral infections, heals injuries, repels unwanted predators, guards against environmental aggressors, and deliver nutrients to the cells. And the essential oils of plants have the ability to do all the same for the human body, too.

Along with oxygen, plants pass along the nutrients which they’ve absorbed from the soil and solar energy from the sun when we consume them.

“Plants take the energy of the sun and transform it, through photosynthesis, into the food energy upon which all animals rely. Essential oils are the concentrated form of that sun energy.” —Valerie Ann Worwood in Aromatherapy for the Soul: Healing the Spirit with Fragrance and Essential Oils

The healing benefits of plants are largely more accessible when the plants are immersed in water for a period of time. The method used to extract the oils from plants, steam distillation, obviously exposes plants to water along with heat and pressure. Through steam distillation the essential oil becomes accessible to the body and easy to assimilate.

Since many of us, even when our diet is largely good and balanced, consume some foods and beverages that are terrible for our bodies, a great variety of plant metabolites in the body over time will result in fewer physical challenges and enduring health.

Terry Wahls, MD, who became an expert in the use of essential oils after she used them with great success to treat a number of her own health issues says:

“When I look at essential oils through a food lens, I know that essential oils are interacting positively with our biochemical pathways and nervous systems, even calming excessive inflammation. The inhalation of essential oils activates the same pathways in the brain. The topical application of essential oils on the skin ensures they are entering the bloodstream and affecting the body’s pathways.”

Partake of the mystique of quantum energetic formulated plant-based skincare for your exalted natural beauty and well-being. Subscribe for a discount promo code, plus get truly unique beauty tips and offers.

And says Stephanie L. Tourles in Pure Skin Care: Nourishing Recipes for Vibrant Skin & Natural Beauty:

“The molecular structure of a pure plant essential oil is so compact that within minutes after inhalation and a bit longer following topical application, the oil can be detected in your breath and in your bloodstream. Just imagine what benefits your skin will receive from the rapid absorption of these regenerative wonders of nature.”

Dr. Wahls urges:

“I encourage the addition of essential oils in your self-care program along with different vegetables, spices and teas as sources of plant diversity. There are literally hundreds of essential oils and spices that you can integrate into your life to expose yourself to at least two hundred different plant species in a year.” —Terry Wahls, MD

Intriguing Facts About Essential Oils You May Not Have Known

• Once essential oils are applied to the skin, they are quickly and easily absorbed, then carried by the bloodstream to every cell in the body within minutes.

• The super small size and light weight of essential oil molecules are what make them so aromatic.

• There are approximately 40 quintillion molecules (that’s a 4 with 19 zeros after it) in one single drop of essential oil. Our bodies are composed of 100 trillion cells, therefore once we consume one drop of essential oil, there are 400,000 molecules for each cell in the human body.

• Essential oils are fat-soluble which makes them especially helpful for penetrating the blood-brain barrier and enhancing brain function. (The brain is 60% fat and needs fat to function well.)

• It takes 28 cups of peppermint tea to equal one drop of peppermint essential oil. More than 250 pounds of peppermint leaves are needed to make one pound of peppermint essential oil. There are five drops of lemon essential oil in one lemon.

• Diffusing essential oils can actually help increase the atmospheric oxygen in a room.

• When diffused, certain oils have the ability to remove toxins or metallic particles from the air (e.g. tea tree, lemongrass, pine, citrus, ylang ylang).

• Citrus oils like lemon, orange, and grapefruit have been found to boost positive thoughts and enhance your mood.

• Many European doctors prescribe oils to be taken internally, in addition to or in place of pharmaceuticals.

• Each essential oil contains several to several hundred different kinds of molecules, each of which offers benefits in promoting good health, healing and regeneration.

• Testing the purity of your oil is best done by placing a drop on construction paper. If there is nothing left behind after 15 minutes, it is pure. If there is an oil ring, it is not pure.
  
  

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Cohen, Jodi. Essential Oils to Boost the Brain and Heal the Body: 5 Steps to Calm Anxiety, Sleep Better, and Reduce Inflammation to Regain Control of Your Health. Ten Speed Press, March 2021. 

Worwood, Valerie Ann. Aromatherapy for the Soul: Healing the Spirit with Fragrance and Essential Oils. New World Library, 2006. 

Photo by Elly Fairytale at Pexels

How Essential Oils May Help Purify the Air We Breathe

Synthetic mass marketed perfumes and aerosol fragrances are commonly used to overtone unpleasant smells but they don’t actually cleanse the air we breathe. Diffusing only the purest essential oils in a room using the natural air as a propellant will fill an average sized room in minutes with millions of ionized micro-droplets–a natural aerosol.

Negative Ions

This simple method of diffusion is actually more effective than heat and evaporative methods which oxidize the oil and suppress the natural ionization effect. Many essential oils are also highly antiseptic and kill most airborne bacteria and viruses within a short period of time.

As a diffused essential oil decomposes it releases ionic oxygen into the air creating a negative ion charge. Air negative ions* are naturally produced by cosmic rays, weather fronts, moving water and wind, for example and these negative ions are extremely beneficial to our health.

For more extensive details on negative ions and your health, please read our viral blogs:

“24 Ways to Reap the Benefits of Earth’s Gift of Negatively Charged Ions"

“8 Ways to Expose Yourself to Earth’s Healing Negative Ions"

Most buildings we spend time in, including our homes and offices, are sorely lacking negative ions because of electrical fields and electrostatic charges created by electric and electronic appliances and devices, especially if they are not grounded. Faulty and harmful wiring combined with static charges from synthetic surfaces and air with less than 50% relative humidity will tend to deplete negative ions in the air. Other offenders include metal ducting, cigarette smoke and general indoor air pollution.

Similar to how we’ll find high levels of negative ions close to a fireplace fire, a beeswax candle or falling shower water, diffused essential oil of plants will balance the electro-climate as they emit negative ions into the air.

Diffusing an essential oil is one excellent way to balance the air we breathe with natural negative ionization.

Partake of the mystique of quantum energetic formulated plant-based skincare for your exalted natural beauty and well-being. Subscribe for a discount promo code, plus get truly unique beauty tips and offers.

Ozone

Ozone, an active form of oxygen, is a constituent of the atmospheric air we breathe and is not the same as negative ionization.

Sometimes we may find ourselves uncomfortable in a room and can’t put our finger on the reason why. This feeling is often due to the condition of the air in the room which is impure or unfit to breathe.

The ozone content of the atmosphere is exceedingly small but without it, we breathe in stagnant air. The air in a closed room, for example, rarely contains any ozone, while the air in an open room is very rich in ozone. As another example, in months with abundant precipitation, the air will register more ozone than usual. The same will occur on nights with heavy dewfall. And in forests we find greater amounts of ozone above the tips of the trees.

Ozone acts as a stimulant to the entire nervous system which is why we’ll feel so good when we walk through a forest. The evaporation of the essential oils from the branch tips of the pine trees assist to form ozone in the air. Essential oil of Sylvester/Scots pine possesses this ability to a very high degree and since its fragrance is so delightful, it was one of the very first to be used in air purification applications. Juniper berry and lavender essential oils are also very effective in adding ozone for air purification.

Properly distributed essential oil fragrance through diffusion makes the room’s air pleasantly fresh and rich in ozone as the essential oil slowly evaporates. Simply burning an essential oil causing the oil to rapidly evaporate does not distribute the aromatic molecules in a finely divided condition rendering it ineffective before it even reaches the air.

Antimicrobial, Antifungal

Research supports that very many essential oils possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help clear surrounding air. The following essential oils have been found beneficial for air purification from microbes and fungi.

Tea Tree: ”Tea tree essential oils have an affinity for the respiratory system and have been clinically shown to kill the airborne flu virus," says Leigh Winters, M.A., M.S., neuroscientist, psychologist and aromatherapist.

Eucalyptus: rejuvenating, freshening, energizing and purifying to the air

Lemongrass and Cinnamon bark:

”Lemongrass and cinnamon bark are known to be a tad too strong to use in high dosages for DIY skin care products, but they work wonders on battling bacteria in the air," Winters adds.

3. Conifers Pine, Spruce, and Fir: all containing pinene, a chemical compound with well-documented antibacterial properties

4. Citrus: Sweet orange, lemon, and grapefruit essential oils are antimicrobial, destroying airborne germs with their high levels of limonene.

5. Clove bud and ylang ylang: In the study, “Essential oils may help fight effects of pollution,” we read about … “the first evidence that natural essential oil components counteract the inflammatory effects of particulate matter, such as that contained in polluted air.”

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*Positive ions are atoms or molecules that have lost one or more electrons and consequently have a shortage of electrons. In contrast, negative ions have gained one or more additional electrons which makes these odorless, tasteless, invisible molecules negatively charged as a whole.

Kanuka-Fuchs, Reinhard. Healthy Home and Healthy Office: Sick Building Syndrome, Indoor Pollution and Solutions. Reinhard Kanuka-Fuchs, 2001. 

The American Perfumer and Essential Oil Review. Independent International Journal, 1914. 

Authors, All, and Oleg V. Pyankov. “Inactivation of Airborne Influenza Virus by Tea Tree and Eucalyptus Oils.” Taylor & Francis, www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02786826.2012.708948#.VMb5Af7F-GG. 

Posted by CBD & Chronic Pain - Dank Flavors, et al. “Terpene Profile: Pinene.” The Leaf Online, 5 Oct. 2017, theleafonline.com/c/science/2014/10/terpene-profile-pinene/. 

02, Shara Rutberg | Mar. “Essential Oils May Help Fight Effects of Pollution.” New Hope Network, 3 Mar. 2017, www.newhope.com/breaking-news/essential-oils-fight-effects-pollution?NL=NP-05&Issue=NP-05_20170317_NP-05_936&sfvc4enews=42&cl=article_3_2&utm_rid=CNHNM000000808938&utm_campaign=20527&utm_medium=email. 

Photo by Eva Elijas at Pexels

Arnica Montana: Natural Soother, Healer, Tissue-Regenerator

Arnica montana extract, the principle unique ingredient in PHYTO5’s Arnica-Lavender Massage Oil is derived from the medicinal Arnica flower of the aster family. It’s used for soothing pain from injuries, accidents, and for relieving rheumatic muscles and joint pain. Arnica also stimulates skin’s complexion and has been used for centuries to soothe irritated skin while moisturizing dry skin.

For centuries, arnica has been a staple in folk medicine in North America, Germany and Russia. More than 100 prescription drugs are today derived from arnica in Germany alone. Indigenous North Americans prepared a tea from its roots to ease back pain and in Russia, arnica preparations were indicated to treat wounds, black eyes, sprains and contusions. They also used herb itself for uterine hemorrhage, myocarditis, arteriosclerosis, angina pectoris, and cardiac insufficiency.

Twelfth century polymath and healer Hildegard von Bingen, a German nun known for her intimate understanding of nature and physiology, recorded her observations about the wide range of healing properties of the Arnica montana plant.

Arnica brings relief to discomfort and pain experienced by all sorts of lifestyles, including aching athletes, children, yogis and weary travelers.

“Arnica, also known as Arnica montana, is the most loved and the most widely used remedy in all of homeopathy. It could even be said that it is the success of Arnica that has led to the success of homeopathy.”

— Ruth Elston in What Is Arnica? Why Arnica Montana is the #1 Bestselling Homeopathic Remedy in the Worl

Current Health Enhancing Uses for Arnica Today

• Adding a few drops of arnica tincture* to warm water for a foot bath may relieve fatigue and soothe sore feet.

• Hair rinses prepared with the extract have been used to treat alopecia neurotica, an anxiety condition leading to hair loss.

• Hair tonics formulated with arnica work to combat dandruff.

• Homeopathic arnica is ingested to relieve vertigo, hoarseness, seasickness, swelling from injury, pain and muscle soreness.

• Arnica can be used as a natural antibiotic.

• Arnica is excellent for jet lag and for transient insomnia caused by overexertion or stressful events. It is non-habit-forming.

• The herb can be used to relieve stiffness from flying or long-distance driving.

• Many therapists give arnica to their patients post-surgery to help alleviate residual pain.

• Arnica soothes playground bumps and bruises.

Arnica’s Properties Make It An Ideal In Massage and Pain Therapy

• analgesic

• anti-inflammatory, calming, soothing

• formative and reparative of tissue

• anti-bacterial

• antioxidant

• anti-fungal

• antitumoral

• immunomodulatory**

• healing acceleration

• relaxation

Common names for Arnica montana include leopard's bane, mountain tobacco, mountain snuff, and wolf's bane.

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*Arnica can be toxic when consumed in large quantities; only highly diluted homeopathic preparations are considered safe for ingestion. In some individuals, arnica may also cause rashes and contact dermatitis due to its helenalin content. Prolonged exposure to this allergen has been reported to cause blistering, skin ulcers and surface necroses. Arnica should never be applied to open wounds.

** Encouraging homeostasis or balance in the immune system

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https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-andanimals/plants/plants/arnica

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15569527.2020.1743998

http://www.paolobellavite.it/files/322_2020-HomeopathyFN1Arnica_1zchz70u.pdf

Anderson, Rachel Grabenhofer and Katie. “Jar Deconstructed: Arnica.” Skin Inc., www.skininc.com/skinscience/ingredients/Jar-Deconstructed-Arnica-573900821.html?utm_source=newsletter-html&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SI%2BE-Newsletter%2B03-04-2021&absrc=img. 

Elston, Ruth. What Is Arnica? Why Arnica Montana Is the #1 Bestselling Homeopathic Remedy in the World. Better Life Books, 2012. 

US;, Kriplani P;Guarve K;Baghael. “Arnica Montana L. - a Plant of Healing: Review.” The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28401567/. 

What is Nana Mint? This Exotic Spearmint Is a Key Anti-Age Skin Care Ingredient

Nana mint (Mentha spicata) is a variety of Moroccan spearmint long known for its natural rejuvenative and healing properties. These includes benefits for skin, energy, mental acuity and the health and immunity. Spearmint is largely used as flavoring in foods. But Moroccan Nana mint’s cleansing, rejuvenate, anti-age properties make it a superb ingredient in PHYTO5’s anti-age Cleansing Foam.

What is Nana Mint? It’s an anti-age agent when used in skincare.

Anti-inflammatory and soothing Nana mint offers powerful antioxidant action in skincare. It contributes to slowing visible signs of aging.

Nana mint essential oils helps rejuvenate and energize mature skin while minimizing lines. Nana mint also powerfully helps clear acne.

What is Nana Mint? It’s the source of the Moroccan woman’s beauty.

Moroccan women have long been known for their natural beauty. With radiant flawless skin and shiny silken hair, Moroccan women practice unique natural beauty rituals. And Nana mint plays a key role in their beauty rituals.

Moroccan people combine Nana mint with gunpowder (Chinese green) tea and sugar to create a beverage they consume every day several times a day. This Nana mint tea elixir is not only a staple of Moroccan culture, Moroccan women consider it key to their youthful beauty.

Moroccan people enjoy Maghrebi mint tea hot even during Morocco’s ultra warm Summers. They’ve found that the spearmint is superb at cooling down the body. It defends the body against the Summer heat. Chemicals in Nana combine with the body’s cold-sensitive receptors tricking the brain. The brain sends cooling sensation messages into the body.

Partake of the mystique of quantum energetic formulated plant-based skincare for your exalted natural beauty and well-being. Subscribe for a discount promo code, plus get truly unique beauty tips and offers.

What is Nana Mint? It’s a spearmint grown in the Maghreb region of Northwestern Africa.

Nana is Arabic for mint. It’s also called Moroccan or Maghrebi mint. Nana mint is grown in the Maghreb region of north and northwestern Africa where Morocco is located and Arabic is spoken. Nana is also grown in the Mediterranean region.

Nana mint is called by many different names. Its original and real name is crisped mint. Nana mint’s original name is ‘crisped mint.’

What is Nana Mint? It’s a milder form of mint with warm herbal tones.

With no menthol nuances such as with peppermint, Nana mint has an earthier, sweeter flavor.

Nana is one of 210 species of mint cultivated all over the world and is one the oldest of all mints.

Moroccan Nana mint looks very similar to most common mint varieties except that it's more compact in shape. Nana leaves are a bright green color with slightly toothed edges.

The Nana plant itself bears soft stems with leaves that grow closely together. Pale purple flowers bloom in whirls at the tops of taller stems in late Summer and early Fall. Even the flowers of Nana are edible. The leaves tastes intensely spearmint flavor whether you consume them fresh or dry.

What is Nana Mint? It’s an important nutritious food.

Nana mint is very nutritious. One cup of Moroccan Nana mint tea delivers a generous serving of fluoride, calcium, magnesium, copper and selenium. All of these boost immune function.

Nana mint is rich in niacin (vitamin B3). Niacin lowers LDL bad cholesterol and increases HDL good cholesterol.

Folic acid in Nana mint regulates the body’s level of homocysteine, an amino acid that can cause heart disease if too much of it is present.

What is Nana Mint? It’s a cleansing tonic for internal and topical use.

Nana mint contains less menthol than other mints. This makes it a milder yet still efficient cleansing agent. Nana still possesses all the benefits of other mints. It’s very uplifting and energizing.

Nana spearmint contains the amino acid l-Theanine which raises your levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of relaxation and calmness.

What is Nana Mint? It’s a potent healing spearmint.

For thousands of years we’ve cultivated spearmint for its medicinal and healing applications.

You can use Nana spearmint for digestive support including upset stomach, heartburn, flatulence and nausea.

Use the essential oil of Nana mint to support oral health just as it’s been used since the Middle Ages. Back then, the people regularly added spearmint to drinking water to purify it.

Nana mint offers many more healing benefits:

• provides greater mental performance and focus

• offers analgesic soothing for respiratory tract

• loosens congestion and cough

• abates bad breath as an antimicrobial

• kills off bacteria, fungus and viruses

• relieves nasal allergies

• cleanses blood

• relieves headaches when rubbed on the temples

• soothes muscle pain as an anti-spasmodic

• boosts immunity

Chili Pepper Ferment Extract: Potent In Skincare and Especially for Athletic People and Anyone Needing Better Blood Circulation

Chili pepper ferment extract is a unique ingredient in PHYTO5’s Wood element Yogi Body Gel specifically for its ability to help increase blood flow and create better absorption of Yogi Body Gel’s other ingredients on the skin’s surface. Only a tiny bit of extract is formulated into the product therefore the burning that many might associate with chili peppers is nonexistent. Studies show no 'meaningful irritation or contact dermatitis’ when chili pepper is formulated appropriately into skincare as it is in PHYTO5’s.

For the active athletic person, the fact that chili pepper ferment extract is a unique ingredient in Wood element Yogi Body Gel can be very important. This is because the capsaicin compound found in chili pepper has potent pain-relieving properties. In addition, chili (Capsicum frutesense) is a stimulant and thermogenic which means it actively helps encourage blood circulation thereby bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin and also causing a feeling of warmth important for good athletic performance. Capsaicin is also a potent muscle relaxant.

The capsaicin compound in chili pepper functions as an external analgesic since it desensitizes neural pain receptors. This can also be an important consideration for those who are experiencing arthritic pain.

The ferment extract of chili pepper captures the full range of phytocompounds found in chili pepper making it very useful in skincare. Today’s cosmetics industry utilizes chili pepper as a fragrance ingredient and skin-conditioning agent. It is antimicrobial and antioxidant, both of which are extremely important for good skin health.

Chili pepper offers the following additional health benefits

• helps keep hair and skin healthy

• improves digestive health and metabolism

• fights fungal infections, colds and flu

• alleviates migraine headaches

• provides joint pain relief

• fights inflammation

• encourages greater cardiovascular health

• promotes red blood cell growth

• improves vision and overall ocular heath

In addition, studies suggest that chili pepper can decrease the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Because chili peppers are high in antioxidants, cartenoids,* and vitamin C, chili pepper helps regulate insulin. A number of Australian scientists found that a meal containing chili pepper can result in proper insulin production in the body that reduces blood sugar levels. (As documented in “Effects of chili consumption on postprandial glucose, insulin, and energy metabolism;” see endnotes for complete citation).

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Endnotes:

• Carotenoids are a class of phytonutrients ("plant chemicals”), mainly yellow, orange, or red fat-soluble pigments, including carotene, which give color to plant parts such as ripe tomatoes and autumn leaves; carotenoids are found in the cells of a wide variety of plants, algae and bacteria and help plants absorb light energy for use in photosynthesis. They also have an important antioxidant function of deactivating free radicals — single oxygen atoms that can damage cells by reacting with other molecules, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.**

** “Carotenoids.” Linus Pauling Institute, 1 Jan. 2021, lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/carotenoids.

“Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Capsicum Annuum Extract, Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract, Capsicum Annuum Resin, Capsicum Annuum Fruit Powder, Capsicum Frutescens Fruit, Capsicum Frutescens Fruit Extract, Capsicum Frutescens Resin, and Capsaicin1, 2007.” SAGE Journals, 1 Jan. 1984, journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10915810601163939?journalCode=ijtb&. 

Ahuja, Kiran DK, et al. “Effects of Chili Consumption on Postprandial Glucose, Insulin, and Energy Metabolism.” OUP Academic, Oxford University Press, 1 June 2006, academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/84/1/63/4633023. 

“Carotenoids.” Linus Pauling Institute, 1 Jan. 2021, lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/carotenoids. 

The Herb Absynthe Enjoys Its Resurgence As Potent Healer and Protector

Artemisia absinthium, a key ingredient in PHYTO5’s Wood element Yogi Body Gel, (also known as absynthe, absinthe or wormwood [Asteraceae]) is a very important species in the history of medicine. All parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicinal practices for hundreds of years.

Absynthe has a colorful history* but only because of misuse, abuse and misunderstanding of the herb used to create the spirit of the same name. The herb gained notoriety because of its use in absinthe, the French liqueur that became a favorite of many nineteenth century artists like the Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. Medicinal extracts of wormwood have not been shown to cause adverse effects at usual doses. For purposes of this article, we are referring only to the herb itself and not the alcoholic concoction.

Typically utilized in extract or tea form, its extract assists to balance the organs of the Wood element which are liver and gall bladder according to traditional Chinese medicine. Wormwood’s strong bitter agents–absinthin and anabsinthin–stimulate digestive and gall bladder function.

In European medicine, wormwood is used in both allopathy and homeopathy. In traditional Asian and European medicine, it has been used as an effective agent in gastrointestinal ailments. It is beneficial in supporting healthy flora in the digestive tract.

Wormwood is effectively used in the treatment of the following conditions:

• Crohn’s disease

• IgA nephropathy**

• indigestion

• poor digestion

• irritable bowel syndrome

• heartburn

• low stomach acidity

• parasites

• helminthiasis

• anaemia

• insomnia

• bladder diseases

• difficult-to-heal wounds

• fever.

Wormwood can be used as a good and bitter tonic stimulating menstruation, and treating fever, liver disease, depression, muscle pain, memory loss and loss of libido.

But in addition to medicinal uses, Artemisia absinthium is also enjoying a successful career as a cosmetic plant. Its extract is used in skin care cosmetics because of its wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Scientific research points to many additional properties of Wormwood:

• antiprotozoal(1)

• antibacterial

• antifungal

• anti-ulcer

• hepatoprotective(2)

• anti-inflammatory

• immunomodulatory(3)

• analgesic

• neuroprotective(4)

• anti-depressant

• procognitive

• neurotrophic(5)

• and cell membrane stabilizing and antioxidant activities.

Both absynthe’s flowers and leaves are used to create the extract. Artemisia absinthium grows naturally on uncultivated arid ground, on rocky slopes, and at the edge of footpaths and fields. With characteristic grayish white downy leaves and small yellow flower buds, the herb grows as a weed. The absinthe extract in Wood element Yogi Body Gel is actually grown and harvested very nearby to PHYTO5’s Swiss factory in Fleurier, Switzerland.

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Endnotes:

1. Fighting infections caused by protozoa (a single-celled microscopic animal)

2. Preventing damage to the liver

3. Cell-based immunotherapy

4. Serving to protect nerve cells against damage, degeneration, or impairment of function

5. Relating to the growth of nervous tissue

*It was once believed that the psychotropic activity and toxicity of absinthe were due to the thujone content, however modern analysis has demonstrated that only minor amounts of this compound were present, and the effects may have been due to the copper and antimony adulterants as well as the high ethanol content.

**Disease of the kidney and immune system

D.W.; Lachenmeier. “Wormwood (Artemisia Absinthium L.)--a Curious Plant with Both Neurotoxic and Neuroprotective Properties?” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20542104/. 

Szopa A;Pajor J;Klin P;Rzepiela A;Elansary HO;Al-Mana FA;Mattar MA;Ekiert H; “Artemisia Absinthium L.-Importance in the History of Medicine, the Latest Advances in Phytochemistry and Therapeutical, Cosmetological and Culinary Uses.” Plants (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32825178/. 

Spring Equinox 2021–A New Solar Year and a New Astrological Age. Is It Any Wonder It Would Be So Pivotal At This Time?

The Spring or vernal equinox 2021* is Saturday, March 20. This special day, when the sun crosses the celestial equator, marks the middle point between the Winter solstice and the Summer solstice. On the Spring equinox day every spot on the entire planet experiences an equal amount of time in the light and in the darkness. From that day on in the northern hemisphere, each day thereafter we leave behind more of the dark of Winter as we receive a greater amount of the light and warmth of the sun. Now all of nature begins to be revived after its Winter hibernation.

Many believe that this equinox is most important because they see it as marking the beginning of the Age of Aquarius.** In this understanding, our civilization has been hibernating for aeons and celestial events of December 2020 solstice and March 2021 equinox revive us and herald the light of a new epoch in time, a time that could be called Earth’s  ’Summer’ period of existence.

The Spring equinox 2021 is especially pivotal in light of all the challenges the entire world has been experiencing literally since 2020’s Spring equinox. In addition, the Winter solstice of December 21, 2021 also created a powerful energetic pathway into this new year 2021. And though we technically began a new year on January 1, the apparent movement of the sun crossing the celestial equator can be seen, particularly in the Northern hemisphere, as the start of the new “solar” year full of potent energy and hallmarking a renewal.

If this equinox would be given a name it would be “New Earth Rising.” Although it appears that in the world today there is an enormous amount of negativity, chaos, confusion and destruction afoot, New Earth is to be born of these fires and their ashes. 

This equinox places polarity squarely in our faces and forces us to make serious choices that will form how we choose to experience, see and perceive our reality. Will we, unaware, minimally stay comfortable within the “third dimension” simply because it is a known factor, or will we choose to see with higher sight, awake and aware, and strive toward a higher state of consciousness? 

Once the Spring equinox opens the door to a myriad of polarity choices throughout the year, over and over again, we will have to make many choices between all sorts of pairs of opposites, such as:

                light/dark

                service to others/service to self

                love/fear

                good/evil

                truth/lies

                positive/negative.

This is an invitation to become more conscious, awake and aware. We must learn to live through these polarities embracing the universal Law of Balance – to maintain balance between our beliefs, thoughts, and emotions to achieve a greater vitality of being. In fact, it is very much a core approach to the vital energy balance that is the fundamental premise of PHYTO5:

                • vital energy flow within our bodies that enables us to mitigate or heal physical challenges

                • emotional balance and happiness–the foundation for healthy and balanced living

Both of these fundamentals for conscious living are described further in our blog,  “Wei Chi and the Beauty of Emotions.”

Thought this year, we’ll need to be patient and do our best to live in the now because to yearn to go back to normal, to wonder when this will all end, will not be healthy for us mentally or emotionally. A process of transformation is under way as we are now entering the Aquarian Age and leaving the Piscean Age behind. It may take some time, but it is ours to embrace. 

We are invited to focus on opening ourselves to excitement, wonder, bliss, joy, and happiness for this will strengthen our beings and our lives. It balances our needs with those of others; it encourages cooperation, civility and respect for others as well as for our environment. Rather than dwell on the chaos, confusion and negativity we see with our eyes, let’s focus on the new reality that is now being birthed beginning this Spring equinox.

The Spring equinox 2021 is all about allowing the light to blast open our consciousness so that we make choices that make us strong, sustainable and balanced–each of us contributing vitally to the whole and consequently uplifting Earth to the positive, cooperative, unified vision of itself we hold. It begins intensely March 20, 2021.

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Endnotes: 

* Roughly every 2,150 years, the sun’s location in front of the background stars – at the time of the March, or vernal, equinox – moves in front of a new zodiacal constellation. For example, the Age of Aquarius begins at the point when the sun is no longer in front of the constellation Pisces at the time of the March equinox. At that point – sometimes called the March equinox point, or vernal equinox point – the equinox sun will be in front of the constellation Aquarius.

**Astrologers do not agree upon exact dates for the beginning or ending of the ages,** with given dates varying by hundreds of years. For this reason, many believe we entered the Age of Aquarius years ago, others believe we are entering this age around the Spring equinox 2021 and still others believe it is several hundred years away. 

***An astrological age is a time period in astrologic theology which astrologers claim parallels major changes in the development of Earth's inhabitants, particularly relating to culture, society, and politics. There are twelve astrological ages corresponding to the twelve zodiacal signs in western astrology. Advocates believe that when one cycle of the twelve astrological ages is completed, another cycle of twelve ages begins. The length of one cycle of twelve ages is 25,860 years.

Photo by Bessi at Pixabay

Chinese New Year 2021, Friday, February 12, Is the Year of the Silver Ox. Learn How to Harness Its Energies for Accomplishing Your Goals

Chinese New Year 2021 occurs on Friday, February 12 and it is the Year of the Silver Ox. In ancient Taoist astrology every year is not only assigned an animal to represent its energy and potentiality, it corresponds to one of the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and to a color.

Ox is considered to be a yin year. Yin can be described as more receptive, inward, introspective, and mysterious.

The color of the animal will always be either a yin or a yang aspect/hue of the element’s color which is associated with the year (according to TCM). For example, Metal’s color is white, however white’s yin aspect is silver with its yang aspect remaining white. To clarify this understanding of color yin and yang in TCM, let’s take Earth as another example. Earth’s color is yellow, therefore its yang aspect is yellow and its yin aspect is gold.

Metal element years end in zero and one. Silver years end in the number one, therefore 2021 lends its color, silver, to the Ox and it is a Metal year.

Many centuries ago, humankind’s relationship with animals was necessary for survival. Animals became domesticated and the Taoist priests took note of their qualities and characteristics.

Ox is blessed by the compassionate Chinese goddess Kwan Yin because of Ox’s gentle nature. The ancient Taoists harnessed the ox for their labor but never milked the Ox since they held great respect and honor for this hard-working, robust animal.

Through the Taoists priests’ careful observation of particular animals combined with astute astrological observations they developed a system in which they assigned every one of 12 animals chosen to each year in a 12-year cycle. They also concluded that various human physical and temperamental attributes matched with particular years in this 12-year cycle.

Ox represents the beginning stages of a plant’s growth, the seed’s struggle to break out of confinement and sprout. Ox’s qualities are steadiness, determination, perseverance, discipline, hard work, valuing family and accomplishing for the common good.

Ox symbolizes the yin attributes of contemplativeness and wisdom in the Taoist tradition.

If you were born in the year of the Ox and are more specifically a Silver yin Ox, you should know that balanced silver Ox is fair and patient. You’ll want to aim to be less opiniated, to accept change, and become practiced at releasing the past. Construction emotional expression will be key for you.

The year of the Ox means it’s time for real diligence as we go about our work, service and daily lives. Ox indicates that it is through our steadfast diligence in these things this year that we will achieve success.

While world events invite, even beg for change, the year of the Ox opens the window now for the global transformation we desire. But first we must pave the way for that transformation on a microcosmic level–in our own homes and in our individual lives. This year is not a time to be lazy or to procrastinate with the simple things we know we should be doing such as creating structure in our lives with a routine we’ll actually enjoy.

Perhaps we can look back to see what we may have done in the past that worked in our lives and which somehow we lost sight of and then reincorporate those practices into our daily living.

The Year of the Silver Ox is a time to get well grounded in structure so that next year, the Year of the Tiger, we’ll be well poised for what is new and perhaps more “leading edge.”

If you feel to create new projects, Ox would indicate that you carefully think them through and plan them out well. Set your goals and don’t relent until you achieve them. The persevering energy of Ox will assist you.

When we create this well rounded structure in our lives, it leads us to realize Metal’s balanced attribute of knowing that all is well indeed.

This Year of the Silver Ox is a time to realize high morals and standards for ourselves and a time to increase our individual honesty and integrity.

Though there will always be uncertainty, tap into Ox’s energy and know that rewards always come as a result of steadfast effort. Try not to feel frustrated when things seem to take a long time to realize.

Considering the tumultuous and often confusing current events and upheaval of the world and especially the U. S., is it any wonder that this year is the year of the Silver Ox? We think not. There really is no such thing as coincidence. Take the Silver Ox’s pointers deep into your life and living and see if it can’t guide you successfully through 2021 every step of the way.

Each one of us contributes to the whole therefore may the energy of Silver Ox guide us well through 2021 and lead us out of this epoch in time into a new and brighter future.

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Endnotes:

Levitt, Susan, and Jean Tang. Taoist Astrology: a Handbook of the Authentic Chinese Tradition. Destiny Books, 1997.

Photo by Macau Photo Agency on Unsplash

Cyclical Living Is the Key to a Vitality Filled Life and Our Producing the Frequency of Love

Not all that long ago, the people of Earth lived in concert with it. They had to. There were no technological inventions to “make life better” and to keep them occupied, busy, even distracted. Instead, they were forced to look up at the sky for their entertainment and wonder. Many of our ancient ancestors noticed the cycles not just of the Earth but of the heavens and they came to understand that living in harmony with these cycles was key to their vitality and happiness.

Prior to the Piscean age (we’re entering the Age of Aquarius about now, from the Piscean) and a number of years into that epoch in time (approximately 1 A.D. to 2000 A.D.), very many people of the planet lived cyclically, mirroring the movement of the planets and stars and the changes of seasons here on Earth. They didn’t just observe these cycles with their eyes, they felt the significance of the cycles in their bellies–what some people call today the ‘other brain.’ Marking time according to planetary movement actually assisted the people back then to gain balance with the Earth and to strike a balance between logical thinking and intuitive feeling.

The ‘brain’ in the belly is not actually a brain as we know it, but it’s a center of feeling, discernment, trust and intuition. And it still exists in us today if we’ll use it. It’s what helps us cut through confusion to clarity. The belly brain combined with utilizing both right and left brain have the potential to create human beings of personal power and wisdom. Human beings of this kind have very little fear because they simply know.

During this ancient magical time of wonder where many people utilized both right and left brain hemispheres as whole-brained beings, they realized that embracing universal cycles initiated greater knowing and intuitive wisdom within themselves. They were able to identify phenomena and relate well to the outside world. Armed with this understanding, these ancient ancestors were able to move energy around in their bodies and very many lived quite long, happy and vitality-filled lives. Nature was not something outside of them. It was part of them and they were part of it.

As the Piscean age waned, so, too, did the peoples’ personal power as organized religion, governments and organizations sought control over the people for their own selfish agendas. Somewhere around 1000 A.D. to 1500 A.D., whole living was mostly destroyed by them. Those in power used fear to control the people. And even though the Age of Enlightenment came along bringing with it an acceleration of information, reason and a whole new way of looking at the world, fear was already deeply anchored in the people. It became the predominant feeling in humans, embedded into their very DNA. 

Along with the programming of fear, human beings were trained to think in a linear fashion only. They learned to use only their five senses and the use of the sixth sense, their intuition, faded away into the distant past. Most could no longer see beneath the surface to the core of truth. The only acceptable way of thinking was rational, surface and superficial. Those who ventured out of that mode of thought were tortured and killed for it.

Much like a spiral, the cyclical curves and bends and gives way to possibilities beyond our surface comprehension, cycling into infinity. Much like a straight line, the linear does not bend. It may go on to infinity but it is stiff, hard and unrelenting. It speaks that everything is black or white only and that information can only be found as points on that sterile line.

Nevertheless, women largely remained examples of cyclical living and women have never really totally lost their intuitive sense. With their bleeding time in tune with the cycles of the moon, their way of life and of bringing life into the world had to be based on cycles. This contradicted the existence of a linear meaningless world put in place at that time by the power mongers. And the cycles still live on today in women, embraced by women at least in part.

The Gregorian calendar, the calendar introduced in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII, is not quite 450 years old. The church adjusted the calendar and marked Christian holidays at pagan events like equinoxes and solstices which reflected natural phenomena and cycles. Hijacking these natural cycles and events which punctuated them, they implanted their own icons for each event, demanding that the people could not communicate directly with their Creator. Instead they would have to rely on a saint or priest to intercede with God for them. This further paralyzed the innate intuitive, feeling, divine nature of human beings.

We come by our overriding fear of truly living very honestly because generation after generation has passed fear and linear thinking on to us through our DNA. But even DNA can be changed which could be the topic of a whole other article.

Linear thinking shuts off the knowledge of cyclical living. Linear thinking does not allow for viewing life as flowing like an endless river. It does not allow us to truly see the meaning of life in the heavens or deep within us. It severs our ability to move energy within and around our bodies and to heal ourselves on the quantum level. It inhibits and imprisons us. And this has been the planet’s controllers whole plan all along for how could they manipulate our ability to see and know the truth otherwise?

Cyclical and whole-brained living nurtures the vitality of love, self-knowing and self-empowerment. Fear could never do that. Love is our biological birthright.

Surface thinking is the act of simply and tacitly digesting information others give to us without feeling it through our belly brain for truth. On some level we know our thought process isn’t complete, but entrenched in surface thinking, we take the incomplete path most travelled—we accept being spoon-fed information without doing our due diligence and then feeling it through. And for this, we end up producing the frequency of fear, totally manufactured for another agenda. 

The key to a life of vitality and balance is producing the frequency of love and a profound sense of being at one with all of life. The ancient meaning of cyclical time has largely vanished but it still exists deep within our cells and DNA. It truly is still a part of us.

Especially in our current time of confusion, chaos, strife and fear, whole-brained thinking and the ability to discern through feeling is vital to survive and thrive. It’s the key to producing the frequency of love.

Love creates. Fear destroys. Love is tantamount to cyclical, harmonious, magical, creative living. Fear rejects all of that.

Embrace whole brained and belly brain thinking and feeling simply through your intent and you will naturally understand the cycles of life and how to live in harmony with them similar to the way our ancient ancestors once did.

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Endnotes:

This blog article is written based on the author’s observations and experiences working for PHYTO Distribution, Inc., the U. S. distributorship for PHYTO5 skincare.

Photo by Sean Parker on Unsplash

Probably the Most Underappreciated Nutrient for Skin’s Radiance and the Body’s Vitality: Silica

The trace mineral silica is widely recognized as a factor of development in young animals and children. It is absolutely essential to bone growth and development of the body. This is why children have beautiful silky hair, soft skin and perfect nails. Silica is mostly present in the deeper connective layers of the skin. It has moisturizing effects and accelerates wound healing. Since silica is used by virtually every cell and internal gland in the body, and since its stores can be depleted over time, it’s vital that we ensure we’re consuming natural silica internally through the food we eat and topically in the skincare we use.

Partake of the mystique of quantum energetic formulated plant-based skincare for your exalted natural beauty and well-being. Subscribe for a discount promo code, plus get truly unique beauty tips and offers.

Many PHYTO5 skincare products' natural unique ingredients deliver silica to the skin (Water element Yogi Body Gel, Eye Cream, Face Cream (biostimulant) and organic certified Zen Body Exfoliation with bamboo powder providing the silica)

Silica is one of the largest components of collagen. Collagen is an important factor in skin looking soft, supple and moisturized. Silica becomes even more important for skin as we age because damage from free radicals is constantly occurring in the body especially showing up externally over time in the form of lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Silica ensures healthy outer cell layers of the skin by enhancing collagen production in the body.

Silica also promotes lustrous hair and may even prevent or mitigate thinning of the hair. It ensures that hair follicles continued to be supplied with the nutrients required for vitality and growth of hair.

We’re born with large amounts of silica and low amounts of calcium. As we age we lose silica while our bodies deposit calcium into our glands leading to calcification of our tissues and increasing loss of glandular function. Calcium requires vitamin D3 in order to be optimally absorbed by the body but it also requires silica in order to build strong bones and teeth. Silica enhances bone mineralization and can be very valuable in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. It promotes proper balance between calcium and magnesium in the body. This, in turn, assists to bring hormones into balance.

Calcium deficiency is almost always associated with silica deficiency. Several studies show that people with broken bones heal much quicker when silica levels are high even when calcium levels are low. If you’re taking a calcium supplement you should always look for silica content in the formulation to ensure your supplement is a good one.

Since silica lends strength and elasticity to collagen, joints become more flexible, heal more resiliently and become able to snap back from daily wear and tear. Silica assists to ease joint pain.

Silica also is known to strengthen the digestive, cardiovascular and central nervous systems.

The central nervous system depends on calcium and magnesium to carry its nerve impulses accurately throughout the body and since calcium requires silica for its functions, silica is vital to this system.

With the skin and our digestive system as the first lines of defense against pathogens, silica is a vital factor in our immunity. Silica also helps build strong stomach and digestive tract muscles and tissues caused by poor diet, parasites or injuries.

In the cardiovascular system, silica is found to be more prevalent in healthy hearts than diseased ones and it strengthens blood vessels.

Silica helps the body to detox from heavy metals and prevent their recirculation. It actually helps remove aluminum, mercury, cadmium and lead from the body.

It’s silica that rebuilds and regenerates our connective tissues. Silica assists our bodies to recover from strain and stress, while it promotes healing and moisturization.

Foods rich in silica are millet, bamboo, garlic, potatoes, onions, oats, bananas, spinach, soybean/tofu, rice, and seafood. Horsetail is the quintessential plant supplement containing high levels of bioavailable silica.

…

Endnotes:

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Sangvanich T, et al. Novel oral detoxification of mercury, cadmium, and lead with thiol-modified nanoporous silica. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2014; 6(8): 5483-5493.

Kaufmann, Klaus. Silica, the Forgotten Nutrient: Healthy Skin, Shiny Hair, Strong Bones, Beautiful Nails : a Guide to the Vital Role of Organic Vegetal Silica in Nutrition, Health, Longevity and Medicine. Canada, Alive Books, 1993.

Wake Up More Mature Dehydrated Skin with Hydroxyproline, An Important Component of Collagen

As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen is essential to maintain the normal structure and strength of connective tissue, such as bones, skin, cartilage, and blood vessels. It helps skin cells adhere to one another and also gives the skin strength and elasticity. The amino acid precursor hydroxyproline, along with amino acid* proline, play key roles for collagen stability. For this reason, hydroxyproline is a key unique ingredient in PHYTO5’s Water element Yogi Body Gel. The Water line is one of five quantum energetic lines formulated according to the Five Element Theory of traditional Chinese medicine.

Collagen is second only to water in terms of content of the body. It contains high amounts of the amino acids arginine, glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. These particular amino acids are imperative for keeping skin supple, hair shiny, and nails, bones and joints strong.

Hydroxyproline comprises roughly 13.5% of mammalian collagen. The majority of the body’s collagen is made up of interwoven chains of glycine, proline and either arginine or hydroxyproline, depending on the type of collagen.

---

Yogi Body Gel Eau [Water Yogi Body Gel for Winter • Quantum Energetic]

$77.00

Yogi Body Gel is a revitalizing toning gel for body skin only.

• Firm and tone mature and sun damaged skin.

• Improve water circulation.

For relatively well-balanced skin, use Water quantum energetic Yogi Body Gel during the Winter season, November 8 to January 17.

6.8 oz.

Additional hero ingredient info.

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Type I collagen accounts for about 90% of our body’s collagen. Type 1 collagen supports our skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, joints and muscle health.

Type II is more rare, found mainly in cartilage and eyes, and is actually manufactured by the body.

Type III collagen, the second most abundant type of collagen in the body is quite similar to Type I and it also is manufactured by the body. It helps restore skin’s elasticity and supports the lymphatic system, liver, uterus and intestines.

Collagen’s amino acids are considered “conditionally essential” meaning you can survive without them but if your body is under stress of any kind such as when you are fighting an illness, they become essential. For most people, because stress is so much a way of life for them, these conditionally essential amino acids are actually essential.

It takes a conscious effort to consume collagen rich foods in order to absorb the most appropriate amount of collagen especially as we get older. Collagen is abundant in bone broth, gelatin and the skin of chicken and fish. There are other foods that help us boost our body’s collagen production or at least mitigate its reversal including: avocado, berries, garlic, spinach, kale, chard, tomatoes, beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, red pepper, egg whites and ghee. Hydroxyproline itself is common in many gelatin products.

A vitamin C deficiency decreases the conversion of proline to hydroxyproline and this leads to reduced collagen stability.

Foods rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids have been proven to significantly support the body’s production of collagen whiling guarding the body against the somewhat inevitable loss of collagen.

In addition to rejuvenating hydroxyproline, PHYTO5’s Water element Yogi Body Gel is formulated with high tech natural compound Aquaxyl to hydrate and revitalize the skin, horsetail silica for the synthesis of collagen, aloe and apricot kernel oils to hydrate and nourish, and essential oils of juniper berry and eucalyptus.

#####

Endnotes

*a group of organic compounds that form the building blocks of proteins that comprise 75% of the body; they are involved in almost every body function, including growth and development, healing and repair, normal digestion, and energy production.

Hydroxyproline. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/hydroxyproline.

Li, Peng and Wu, Guoyao. Roles of Dietary Glycine, Proline, and Hydroxyproline in Collagen Synthesis and Animal Growth. Amino Acids, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28929384/.

Axe, Josh. Collagen Diet: A 28-Day Plan for Sustained Weight Loss, Glowing Skin, Great Gut Health and a Younger You. Orion Spring, 2020.

The Chinese Medicine Water Element

By observing the Chinese medicine(1) Water element and studying Water’s characteristics we can see how we get sick and feel out of balance. Nature always gives us cues. So take the following cues from the Chinese medicine Water element to live a better life.

The Five Element Theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides a comprehensive template organizing all natural phenomena into five master groups or patterns in nature.

In fact each of TCM’s five elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—reflects particular natural characteristics or phenomena including:

• direction

• environmental factor

• internal organ

• sense organ

• body tissue

• emotion

• aspect of the soul

• sensation

• sound

• color

• taste

• direction and

• time of day.

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The Chinese Medicine Water Element: Essence of Life and Balance

Water is the essence of life. Water makes it possible for each of the other four elements of TCM to function properly.

Water’s the first place to look when your body feels chronically out of balance. Imbalance in Water causes physical symptoms like:

• lower back pain

• fatigue

• shortness of breath

• vertigo

• dizziness and

• high blood pressure.

The Chinese Medicine Water Element: Kidney Support

The kidneys are associated with the Chinese medicine Water element.

The kidneys primarily store and regulate what TCM calls our Essence—the foundation of blood and chi energy.

Kidney’s energies nourish our body fluids, lubricate our joints, and provide warmth and movement in our bodies.

The kidneys directly connect with our deepest reserves, resources and will.

Energetically speaking, balanced kidneys support our ability to flow even in chaos and lack of clarity.

Emotionally speaking, the kidneys are the seat of our will. Too much fear means our kidneys are out of balance. This imbalance causes us to get stuck over-thinking and leave our bodies energetically drained.

The Chinese Medicine Water Element: Attributes According to TCM

When you embrace the Chinese medicine Water element characteristics you’ll live in harmony with its corresponding season of Winter. And anytime you live in harmony with a season and its element you live better and healthier.

• Season: Winter (November 8 to January 17)

• Skin condition: dehydration, lack of tone, wrinkles; PHYTO5’s quantum energetic Water line of skincare super-hydrates mature very dry skin, increases elasticity and balances moisture retention; and because it’s quantum energetic, it also balances emotion so you can have a sense that all is well.

• Aspect of the psyche: wise, reflective, private

• Virtues: strength, courage, wisdom

• Emotion: fear, dread, anxiety, paranoia, indecisiveness, worry, grief, regret

• Yin organ: kidney

• Yang organ: urinary bladder

• Colors: deep violet, blue and black

• Flavor: salty

• Tissues: bone and marrow

• Five sense organ: ear

• Sensation: hearing and balance

• Sound: the deep sigh or groan

• Direction: North

• Environment: cold

The Chinese Medicine Water Element: Best Foods to Eat

Part of living in harmony with any of the five seasons of TCM including Winter and Water, we should eat foods that share the qualities of that particular element.

Water’s colors are dark blue and blue-black.

The Chinese medicine Water element gives you clues about the color of foods you should increase in your diet during Winter. And you’ll find examples of black and blue-black nourishing foods for Winter and your Water balance in the comprehensive list at the end of this article.

Click here to also read our creative and comprehensive blog on blue and blue-black foods for energetic Winter.

Also ensure your food intake is very hydrating and nourishing at this time.

Good food choices for the Chinese medicine Water element balance include:

• nuts

• seeds

• legumes

• shellfish

• salt water fish

• seaweed

• dark colored berries

• root vegetables

• whole grains

• stews and soups.

During energetic Winter, eat mostly warm and cooked foods. Limit your consumption of cold and raw foods. Cook with warming spices like garlic, ginger, and cardamom.

The Chinese Medicine Water Element: Best Foods List

• adzuki bean

• amaranth

• avocado

• bamboo shoot

• beet

• black bean

• blackberry

• black currants

• black fungus

• black garlic

• black mission figs

• black lentils

• black quinoa

• black rice

• black sea salt

• black sesame seed

• black soybean

• black pepper

• black tea

• black vinegar

• black wheat flour

• blueberry

• blue corn

• broccoli

• cabbage

• cardamom

• cantaloupe

• carrot

• cashew

• celery

• chia seed

• chives

• coconut

• cucumber

• daikon radish

• eggplant

• garlic

• ginger

• grape

• green bean

• leek

• lotus root

• millet

• mulberry

• mustard greens

• oregano

• parsnip

• pea

• peanut

• pear

• pearl barley

• potato

• quinoa

• raspberry

• salt water fish

• seaweed

• sesame seed

• shallot

• shellfish

• shitake mushroom

• snow pea

• soybean

• spinach

• squash

• walnut

• watercress

• watermelon

• wild rice

• winter melon

• zucchini

…

Endnotes:

(1) Traditional Chinese medicine or TCM

Sources:

Russell, J. Lei. TCM Foods: Cooking with the Five Elements. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 2nd edition. November 19, 2015.

Photo courtesy of Valeria Boltneva at Pexels

Energetic Winter According to Traditional Chinese Medicine Is Here: Learn to Live In Harmony With It

The energetic Winter season is associated with the energetic aspect or element of Water. Water’s organs are the yin kidneys and the yang bladder. Both organs intimately associate with water circulation in the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), when kidney is strong and in balance, our bodies are able to regenerate themselves, and increase youth, vibrancy and vitality. PHYTO5’s quantum energetic Water element line of skin and hair care is expressly formulated to help bring your skin, vital energy and emotions in harmony with this season and element.

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They may sound merely like metaphors but when we look at the imagery and function of the Winter/Water season, the imagery we see has direct and important relevance in our lives and health. Just as the waters of the earth freeze over, Water energy within us has the potential to harden and solidify during this season. When we are in balance with the Water element at this time, we’ll find we tend to become passive and inwardly directed. Those who dread the Winter months or who develop “cabin fever” may want to consider that they are out of balance with Water. When we are not in balance with Water we will also tend to be fearful.

In the ancient medical text, the Neijing Suwen, the Yellow Emperor* advises the following concerning the season:

“During the Winter months all things in nature wither, hide, return home, and enter a resting period, just as lakes and rivers freeze and snow falls… Retire early and get up with the sunrise which is later in Winter. Desires and mental activity should be kept quiet and subdued. Sexual desires especially should be contained as if keeping a happy secret. Stay warm, avoid the cold, and keep the pores closed. Avoid sweating. The philosophy of the Winter season is one of conservation and storage. Without such a practice the result will be injury to the kidney energy.”

Though we each have attributes of all of the five elements within us, we do have a dominant element, called our Five Element Type. We are born with this type which presents us with both challenges and gifts throughout life. It can benefit us to understand our type.

You are a Water type if the following generally describes you:

• narrow shoulders, long spine

• large abdomen and head

• broad cheeks

• somewhat darker toned complexion

• cravings for salty foods

• you don’t do well in the cold, especially Winter

• retention of fluid

• memory problems

• challenging symptoms in menopause

• fertility issues

• low libido

• viewpoint tends to be honest, objective and sensible

• introspective

• tendency to fear (especially when out of balance with Water)

• lacking confidence

• tendency to depression in Winter

• challenges fitting in with others

• desire for spiritual and cerebral connections with others

• need for a cause to believe in or direction to follow

• pursuit of knowledge and wisdom

• idealistic visionary seeking to create a better world

• need for connection to something greater than the self and to fulfill ambitions

• a belief that life is inherently dramatic

• self-imposed isolation

• meditation is appealing

• emotional and philosophical

• ability to focus on goals

It’s important to note that the energetics of the kidneys oversee everything that we think of as aging such as: hearing loss, low back pain, knee pain, hair loss, greying hair, menopause, urinary frequency or incontinence, and feeling cold.

Whether you are Water type or a Wood, Fire, Earth, or Metal type, TCM tells us that your health and vitality hinge on whether you choose to live in harmony with energetic Winter or not. Refer back to the Yellow Emporer’s quote above for basic tips. Seek out ways to nurture your inner and outer calm. Utilize this time to more profoundly discover what lies within yourself. Hone your skills of focus and concentration. Find creative ways to surround yourself with the colors of the season–blue and black. Wear them in your clothing and decorate your home with them. Consume blue and blue black foods. Slow cook your food. Be still and quiet and conserve your energy. You’re going to need it for energetic Spring.

…

Endnotes:

*The Neijing is one of the most important classics of Taoism andthe highest authority on traditional Chinese medicine. Its authorship is attributed to the great Huang Di, the Yellow Emperor, who reigned during the third millennium BCE.

Elias, Jason, and Katherine Ketcham. Chinese Medicine for Maximum Immunity: Understanding the Five Elemental Types for Health and Well-Being. Three Rivers Press, 1998.

https://www.phyto5.us/blog-1/energetic-winter-fear-chinese-medicine-anti-aging-wellness?rq=kidney

Delipidol from Pomegranate: A 'Cosmetic Bomb' Successful in the Treatment of 'Orange Peel Skin' In Thighs

Earth element Yogi Body Gel is formulated with high tech natural compounds and natural gelling agents to be a potent anti-cellulite finishing body gel. Its unique ingredient formulation—Delipidol,® green tea, essential oils of lemon, sweet orange, eucalyptus and cypress, biosaccharides, aloe and apricot oil—combine to effectively reverse 'orange peel skin' in the thighs. Equally as important as its anti-cellulite action, all Yogi Body Gels by PHYTO5 are quantum energetic products which translates into significantly recognizable benefits for skin, vital energy and emotions.

Through the action of lipolysis, the breakdown of fats and other lipids by hydrolysis* to release fatty acids, the principal ingredient, Delipidol, significantly reduces fat nodes in the thighs after only 28 days of treatment with effects more than doubled after 56 days using Earth Yogi Body Gel twice a day.

Delipidol is a unique patented molecule  derived from punicic acid in a biotechnological process.  Punicic acid is a polyunsaturated Omega-5 fatty acid from the pomegranate. The acid is derived from the oil of the pomegranate seed (Punica granatum) and from tyrosol. Tyrosol is a natural phenolic** antioxidant present in a variety of natural sources. Two principal sources of tyrosol are olive and argan oils. Tyrosol is a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protector of skin and eyes.

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How Delipidol Works
Called a ‘cosmetic bomb’ by its maker Solabia Group based in France, Delipidol works to diminish ‘orange peel skin’ reducing the appearance of ‘extra lumpy padding’ under the skin. By limiting buildup of fatty acids while stimulating carnitine palmitoyltransferase, an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of fatty acids in the core of the mitochondria,*** cellulite is reduced. With a free-radical fighting antioxidant action this fatty acid breakdown creates a potent protection against the progression of cellulite.

Combining Delipidol with green tea extract is a powerful duo since green tea itself has fat burning properties while it supports more efficient blood circulation, even weight loss.

Lemon essential oil, used in the treatment of cellulite and for attenuating wrinkles, is an anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant and astringent that relaxes nervous energy. It’s best known for its ability to cleanse toxins from the body and purify the skin. For these reasons, lemon essential oil is widely used to encourage flow of lymph**** and to stimulate vital energy.

Primarily known for its rejuvenate and detoxifying properties for skin, sweet orange essential oil is a potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-fungal oil. Sweet orange essential oil helps promote the production of collagen and skin’s natural repair process. It revitalizes, brightens and clarifies skin, especially skin that is excessively oily. It’s also known for its astringent toning properties.

Eucalyptus essential oil is purifying, cleansing and clarifying and for this reason, it can be found in many of PHYTO5’s Earth line products.

Strongly astringent, cypress essential oil is good to use against water retention and cellulite. It tones the skin and is especially beneficial for loose skin caused by weight loss. Cypress is probably the best essential oil for supporting venous and lymphatic circulation. Fluid circulation is vital to the flushing of toxins from the body so necessary for radiant, youthful skin. It increases the body’s sweat and perspiration helping to flush out toxins.

It also contains antioxidant compounds which work to eliminate toxins while inhibiting free radical scavenging.

Biosaccharides are a type of polysaccharide made by fermenting plants. They help moisturize and soothe skin by binding water to the epidermis creating a moisture-binding film on the skin with soft, smooth feeling skin the result.

Aloe acts directly on the skin’s collagen fibers, fostering and revitalizing elasticity. It contains complex polysaccharides that encourage water retention and which also offer excellent moisturizing properties.

Finally, apricot kernel oil is particularly recommended for mature, dry, sensitive skin or skin lacking tone. It contains approximately 90% polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omegas 6 and 9). Very rich in vitamins A and E, it’s nourishing, hydrating and has toning and anti-wrinkle properties.

…

Endnotes:

*the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water

**a class of chemical compounds consisting of one or more hydroxyl groups bonded directly to an aromatic hydrocarbon group

*** an organelle found in large numbers in most cells, in which the biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur

****a colorless fluid containing white blood cells, which bathes the tissues and drains through the lymphatic system into the bloodstream

Sweet Orange Essential Oil: Potent in Skincare and All Around Vitality

Sweet orange essential oil is a potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti fungal oil. It is primarily known for its rejuvenative and detoxifying properties for skin. It is also well regarded as a mentally and emotionally uplifting oil. It promotes vigor and a cheerful demeanor and promotes restful sleep in cases of insomnia. With a cleansing effect throughout the body, it aids detoxification through supporting movement of lymph.* In skincare  sweet orange essential oil helps promote the production of collagen and skin’s natural repair process. It revitalizes, brightens and clarifies skin, especially skin that is excessively oily. Sweet orange is known for its astringent toning properties.

Sweet orange essential oil offers excellent immune system support. Its cooling and refreshing properties can be used to help lessen symptoms of a feverish flu or cold. The orange’s vitamin C content is not found in the essential oil.

It calms the digestive system as it helps food to move through the digestive tract to ease indigestion and relieve trapped gas and constipation.

Skin conditions for which sweet orange essential oil is useful include:

• eczema
• dermatitis
• after sun wrinkles
• oily skin

Other conditions the oil benefits include:

• high blood pressure
• fatigue
• sleep disorders
• uncomfortable symptoms of menses and menopause
• edema
• palpitations
• mouth ulcers
• colds
• flu
• bronchitis
• dyspepsia
• constipation
• spasms
• nervous tension

Sweet orange oil is also recommended for those suffering from magnesium deficiency.

Sweet orange oil has been found to have pleasant sedative effects when used in a massage oil formulation. If used in too high a concentration by itself, sweet orange oil can be an irritant, photo-sentizing** and even somewhat narcotic/hypnotic. For this reason, it’s best to rely on expert skincare formulations containing the oil such as the following created by PHYTO5:

• Earth Selextreme Swiss mountain exfoliating salts

• Earth Yogi Body Gel

• Water element skin Toner

• Zen Body Exfoliation, organic certified

• Zen Massage Oil, organic certified

Sweet orange essential oil is produced by cold pressing the peel or whole fruit of sweet orange varieties or by steam distilling the residues from the segmenting or juicing processes. When completely exhausted by steam distillation, the minced peels from one ton of California oranges yield from 11 to 15 pounds of essential oil.

Historically, the orange has been a symbol of innocence and fertility. The tree is indigenous to eastern Africa, Arabia and Syria and it is believed the crusaders introduced the orange to Europe when they returned from their campaigns.

There are many varieties of sweet orange oil, namely, Florida, California, French Guinea, Brazilian, Italian, Spanish, Palestine, Japanese, and East Indian, all with varying processing methods for essential oil and chemical composition.

* Beginning as interstitial fluid full of waste material discarded by the cells, lymph is a somewhat yellowish liquid containing white blood cells which bathe the tissues and drain through the lymph ducts into the bloodstream. 

** Creating a chemical response to light

#####

Endnotes:

The Complete Technology Book of Essential Oils: (Aromatic Chemicals). Asia Pacific Business Press, 2008.

Rhind, Jennifer. Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice. Singing Dragon, 2019.

Curtis, Susan, et al. Essential Oils: All-Natural Remedies and Recipes for Your Mind, Body, and Home. DK Publishing, 2016.

Price, Shirley, et al. Aromatherapy for Health Professionals. Elsevier, 2020.

Braun, Lesley and Cohen, Mac. Herbs and Natural Supplements: An Evidence-Based Guide. Elsevier Health Sciences. 2010.

Energetic Fall Begins August 7 According to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Why So Soon?

Every August 7 we enter the energetic season of the Metal element or energetic Fall according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The timing of the start of energetic Fall seems off since we’re still experiencing hot Summer days, at least for a few more weeks in most of Northern U.S. Hot weather continues well beyond the end of August for the South.

How do the five energetic seasons relate to the traditional four-season pattern?

Clearly the 365 days of the year cannot be divided into four traditional seasons and at the same time correspond to the energetic calendar which divides the same period into five energetic seasons.

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First, let’s remember that the traditional four seasons are defined by the apparent movement of the sun. At its apex we have maximum sun exposure with maximum amount of heat and light. At its nadir,* we have the minimum amount of heat and of light. And, of course, what the apex is to the northern hemisphere, the nadir is to the southern hemisphere. When it is Summer in the U.S., it’s Winter in Australia. And in similar fashion when the apparent movement of the sun crosses the equator, we experience the start of Spring in March and Fall in September, respectively. The reverse is true for the Southern hemisphere.

The TCM calendar is also regulated by the effect of the apparent movement of the sun by way of the cyclical movement of yin/yang: The sun at its apex corresponds to the maximum yang energy/minimum yin energy (peak of Fire season) and at its nadir, maximum yin/minimum yang energy (peak of Winter).

The Spring is the emerging of yang out of the yin of Winter and the Fall is the diminishing yang energy of Summer allowing for the emergence of the yin energy.

The big difference between the two calendars springs from the TCM consideration that seasonal energy cannot suddenly disappear to make room for the sudden emergence of the energy of the next season. The rule of nature calls for a transition from one energy to the next. This calls for four transitional periods which altogether amount to the fifth season named Earth—the four periods of the year when yin and yang energies are in balance. Each of the five seasons last approximately 72 days and the Earth season is four times 18 days between:

• Winter/Water and Spring/Wood

• Spring and Summer/Fire

• Summer and Metal/Fall

• Fall and Winter/Water. 

Think of each season resulting from a surge and a slowdown of complementary yin and yang energies involved in a constant energetic dance. Each seasonal pattern becomes the cause of the climatic changes brought about by each season. Let’s call them the effects or symptoms of each season in order to differentiate them from the energetic cause of each season. 

The initial energetic surge does not produce a visible effect right away. There is a lag in time. As the new energy pattern is at work, with one energy ascending while the other descends, there is an acceleration in force reflected by the appearance of the typical effects and characteristics of each season. We could call them symptoms such as heat/cold, dryness/humidity, wind/precipitation as opposed to the seasonal energetic cause resulting from the yin/yang yearly cycle. 

There is also a lag in time on the way out of an energetic season. What we continue to feel and experience as we enter energetic Fall on August 7 is the momentum of the energy causing a continuation of the effects or symptoms of the ending Summer season although the energy of the new Fall energetic season is already at work but has not yet materialized its own seasonal symptoms or effects.

As the yang energy of Summer and the Fire element ebbs bringing about an increase in yin energy, there is a moment when both  yin and yang are in balance, yet the effects of the Summer/yang energy has such momentum that the effects of Summer continue to be felt although the Summer energetic pattern has already vanished to transform into the Fall energy that will be showing its effects progressively during energetic Fall. 

Here is an analogy that might help.

Imagine a jogger pushing a baby carriage on a flat and smooth surface. Now imagine that the jogger suddenly stops running as he or she releases the carriage. Because of momentum the carriage will continue to roll forward for some distance although no one is pushing it. The same is true with the ending seasonal effect of each energetic season. It overlaps into the next season.

Our clients in various parts of the U.S. or internationally frequently remark:

Your explanation of the five seasons might be realistic in the northern regions but in the South we only have two seasons such as “hot and hotter” or “rain and dryness.”

Yet energetically speaking everyone experiences the same energetic pattern though with differences in intensity of the effects/symptoms. This is because all parts of the globe are under the influence of the sun and its apparent movement. No region of the world is immune.

This massive energy drives climate differences with degrees of intensity and duration mitigated by secondary causes such as mountains and oceans.  

“I and my family lived in Hawaii for several years having come from New England. We arrived there just before Christmas and my children were delighted to go to the beach every day after school year-round for the first couple of years. By the third year we started to feel the effects of Winter and would joke that the surfers without a wetsuit in February or March were either from Canada or Chicago! We were slowly adapting to the local climate and our bodies were reckoning with the effect of Winter energy even in Hawaii.”

…

* the point on the celestial sphere directly below an observer; the opposite of zenith.

Immunity Requires Proper Function and Movement of Lymph

People with poor lymphatic circulation have a weak immune system. Immunity requires proper function and movement of lymph. Lymph, which begins as interstitial* fluid full of waste material discarded by the cells, is a somewhat yellowish liquid containing white blood cells which bathe the tissues and drain through the lymph into the bloodstream. These thin-walled vessels structured like blood vessels transport fluid, soluble molecules, and immune cells to the lymph nodes tasked with draining lymph.

There are about two quarts of lymph in an average size body. This is equivalent to one third the amount of red blood. Lymph is collected by capillaries and slowly moved to a large network of several hundred lymph nodes–small glands that filter waste materials–in order to be purified. Lymph returns to venous circulation via two major ducts in the chest.

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The largest concentrations of lymph nodes are on the face and neck, underarms and groin area. The diaphragm, our largest muscle, activated during breathing, is the closest thing to a pump as it moves both water and lymph through the system. 

Breathing, body movement and gravity are mainly responsible for the movement of lymph.

According to the Five Element Theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Earth energy drives the activity and movement of lymph. Earth is the energy of purification (of waste material. Congested lymph shows up in toxic skin presenting blemishes, acne, psoriasis and enlarged pores, indicating an Earth energy imbalance. When lymph is able to flow freely, skin becomes purified, normalized and radiant.

In addition to impeding immunity impaired flow of lymph also accelerates the aging process. At the same time, the intensity of the aging process itself affects the functionality and dynamics of lymph flow. 

The consensus in the literature is that the function and capacity of the lymphatic system gets sluggish with age because of decreased lymphatic contractile pressure (the muscles that help circulate lymph lose mass and weaken) and pumping frequency (a decrease in lung capacity). Increased oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant activity associated with aging may also be factors. (Journal of Lymphoedema, 2017, Vol. 2, No. 2)

PHYTO5 skincare containing unique ingredients known to assist lymph movement include:

• the entire Earth line by PHYTO5 

• wild guaiacwood and cypress sessential oils in Ageless La Cure Nourishing Cream

• sweet orange essential oil in Ageless La Cure Extreme Hydrating Cream

• calendula extract in Ageless La Cure soothing pink Clay Mask

You can keep your lymphatic system functioning properly by:

• exercising and building and maintaining muscle strength and lean body mass; muscle contraction forces tiny one-way valves of the lymphatic system to open and close and push the fluid through the system;

• walking (or rebounding); as a weight-bearing activity each step you take lightly pounding the ground, floor or pavement, creates pump-like gravitational pulls on the lymphatic system;

• practicing yoga or stretching helps direct lymph through the deep channels of the chest;

• practicing deep breathing; the act of breathing creates a lymphatic pump in itself helping to direct lymph through the chest; deeper more mindful breathing is the most important facilitator of lymphatic function while consistent shallow breathing leads to lymphatic congestion (for help with a proper breathing exercise, check out our blog on Six Breaths a Minute to Slow Aging and Its Causes here);

• receiving a manual lymphatic massage from a licensed lymphatic massage therapist or receiving a facial** and full body drainage treatment performed by a PHYTO5 trained professional using the Biorhythmic Drainer;

  • PHYTO5's award-winning technology, the Biorhythmic Drainer, mechanically, rhythmically, and precisely reproduces the gentle movement of a manual massage focused on moving energy and fluids that are otherwise stagnant;

  • the well-known Japanese cosmetics company, Shiseido,** found in 2015 that impaired dermal lymphatic vessels are an integral cause of sagging skin** rather than collagen loss;

• staying hydrated to help prevent lymphatic stagnation; lymph gets thicker and more sludgy when you’re dehydrated but will flow well when hydrated;

• avoiding processed foods and bad fats; these can cause inflammation and lead to lymphatic system congestion;

• eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables especially green vegetables because chlorophyll not only purifies the blood, it purifies lymph;

• avoiding chemical laden skin and body care products, cleaning products and pesticides which impede the body from immediate detoxification (Ageless La Cure by PHYTO5 skincare is a pure choice);

• learning how to resiliently respond to stress; the waste products of stress-fighting hormones are acidic and acidity leads to lymph congestion;

• refraining from wearing tight fitting clothing including underwear and underwire bras because both restrict the flow of lymph;

• avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking.

…

Endnotes:

[The information in this article should not be viewed as medical advice as we are not medical professionals. We are sharing information and recommendations from and based on scientific publications and studies that are enumerated in the article’s endnotes. As always, when beginning any new program dedicated to health and which is new for you, first consult your physician.]

Large portions of this blog were originally published on our sister site at agelesslacure.com on September 19, 2019 under the title, “Look and Feel Younger Longer Tip #5: Keep the Lymph Moving,” but has been edited and updated with additional information for freshness and expansion.

* a space between structures

** In 2015, the well-known Japanese cosmetics company, Shiseido, found impaired dermal lymphatic vessels to be an integral cause of sagging skin. Before 2016, sagging skin was mainly attributed to collagen loss. Their press release states:

“Shiseido Co., Ltd., through joint research with Professor Nobuyuki Takakura of the Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, has revealed for the first time that impaired function of dermal lymphatic vessels lead to accumulation of subcutaneous fat, which ultimately causes ‘sagging’ of the skin.”

Zolla, Valerio, et al. Aging-Related Anatomical and Biochemical Changes in Lymphatic Collectors Impair Lymph Transport, Fluid Homeostasis, and Pathogen Clearance. Aging Cell, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, Aug. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4531072/.

Dr. Baumann, Leslie. The Connection Between Lymph and How You Look. Miami Herald, July 21, 2014. www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/skin-deep/article1976385.html.