Best Eating Practices for Healthy Heart, Digestion and Balanced Fire Energy

June 8, 2023 phyto5.us

The Fire element’s organs are Heart (a solid and yin organ), Small Intestine (Heart’s hollow counterpart and yang organ), and the circulatory system and autonomic nervous system (including the parasympathetic(1) and sympathetic branches). The Small Intestine transforms food into nutrients and energy and then provides that nourishment for Heart to deliver throughout the body by way of the blood. The relationship between our diet and the balanced function of Fire’s organ’s and thus, prevention of heart disease cannot be overstated.

Summer is the season of abundant variety of produce and it offers us the opportunity to vary our diets more with healthful produce that supports the Heart. Our Summer diets should reflect the bounty of the season.

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Cooling Food Consumption Practices
It may seem illogical as practices during hot Summer, but instead of drinking cold beverages and sitting in icy cold air conditioned spaces, drink hot liquids and take warm showers. These induce sudden sweating and actually cool the body down.

Certain foods that are cooling to the body are fresh salads, sprouts, fruit, cucumber and tofu. Flower and leaf teas like chrysanthemum, mint and chamomile will also help cool the body from within.

Too many cold beverages and too much icy food will cause an inner contraction of the digestive system, holding in sweat and heat, thereby weakening the digestive organs.

Cold food and drink is really best avoided during Summer.

Dispersing hot spices are very beneficial during Summer and though they will initially create warmth they ultimately bring body heat up to the surface to be dispersed. You won’t really feel that heat very much because your body is already well accustomed to mirroring Summer's heat.

Examples of heat dispersing spices include:

red and green hot peppers
cayenne pepper
fresh ginger (not dried)
horseradish
black pepper

Don’t be overly liberal with the use of hot spices though because doing so could cause a loss of yang energy resulting in weakness. It can even impact your ability to stay warm in future Metal (Fall) and Water (Winter) seasons.

In Summer, the healthful rule of thumb is to eat light and eat less. Heavy foods, especially on the hotter days of Summer, will cause you to be sluggish.

Such heavy foods include meats, eggs and an excess of nuts, seeds and grains.

A dietetic tenet of traditional Chinese medicine is that of avoiding too many cold and raw foods. A “digestive fire” exists within the digestive system that “cooks” the food you consume.

If we consume too many cold or raw foods, this dampens that fire making the small intestine much less effective at breaking food down into the nutrients needed for nourishing the body.

“Use plenty of brightly colored Summer fruits and vegetables, and enjoy creating beautiful meals—make a dazzling display with the colors of the food, and design a floral arrangement for the table. Cook lightly and regularly add a little spicy, pungent, or even fiery flavor. When sautéing, use high heat for a very short time, and steam or simmer foods as quickly as possible. Use little salt and more water.”

— Paul Pitchford in Healing with Whole Foods

The Fire element relates to bitter flavor as we commonly find in herbs, but green leafy vegetables and most lettuces have some of this bitter quality also. Unsweetened coffee, tea and cacao have a bitter quality, too, and these are helpful when consumed in moderation.

The property of bitter foods is descending and centering.

The bitter flavor of any food “enters” and affects the Heart. There that bitter food has a number of functions:

The bitter cleanses deposits from the physical heart and associated arteries.
Bitters cool an overheated Heart. They also help tone up a stagnant Liver which in turn makes more energy available for the Heart.
Bitter foods sedate and lower yang qualities in the head (an overactive mind) and draw them down and concentratesthem in the Heart so a person may become more centered.

If Your Fire Is Too Strong

If you are an overheated person with a red complexion, full of energy and very busy, talkative, and one who finds it difficult to slow down and relax, you may be out-of-balance with Fire. You have too much yang Fire energy.

Foods that will help to bring you back to balance are cooling juice- and water-rich fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits, cucumber and melons are good examples of Fire balancing foods.

If Your Fire Is Weak and You Have Too Much Yin
When a person is overworked and denies the body and mind periods of time to slow down and rest, fatigue, weakness and anxiety are the result and these indicate a Heart yin deficiency.

Traditional Chinese medicine says that Heart’s function of pumping blood doesn’t just help keep the physical body in balance, the Heart as source of consciousness and thinking helps keep thought processes and mental activities in balance, too.

When Heart’s yin or yang energy is out-of-balance, symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and restlessness can result.

Often when Fire is not in balance, circulation slows resulting in extreme coldness and a pale face indicating a Heart yang deficiency and a yin energy excess.

During hot Summer, minerals and oils also get sweated out of the body and losing them can cause us to become weak. But certain foods can be utilized to replenish your Fire if you’re feeling weak and fatigued.

If your Fire is weak, a more warming and cooked food diet that includes whole grains like buckwheat, millet, oats, brown rice and rye will help.

Grains also have a helpful bitter aspect which is in their germ and bran. Unfortunately, these are removed in the processing of refined wheat flour and white rice so consume grains with their germ and bran intact.

Spices, too, like cayenne, ginger and curry help add Fire to your blood.

A weak Fire is also often caused by a poorly functioning small intestine (Fire’s yang organs).

The small intestine is responsible for sorting and separating food in the digestive tract and for proper blood formation.

When food is improperly digested it creates damp mucus in the body which may cause obstructed blood flow. It creates an effect where too little yang energy is available to move the blood.

Stagnant blood flow often occurs in people who develop coronary artery disease, inflammation of the heart and angina.

If your small intestine needs a jumpstart, some traditional Chinese medicine practitioners offer an a time honored recipe to help cleanse and tone the small intestine. It involves an approximate two week practice of consuming a daily cup of equal parts simmered brown rice, lentils and sunflower seeds in one and half times the amount of water. This recipe is an excellent heat producer and should benefit the assimilation function of the small intestine.

Years of consuming red meats, animal fats, sugars and starches, without regularly pausing to cleanse the toxins those foods feed the body will clog up blood vessels.

“The greatest cause of all heart trouble is a wrong diet, which causes impure blood and weakens the heart… other causes are lack of exercise and poor circulation. Often palpitations of the heart are due to gas and fermentation in the stomach.

… When so much food is eaten that is robbed of its life-giving properties, and since the real health-giving properties that have refined out of foods are the properties that strengthen our bodies and heart, the heart gets weaker and weaker. ”

— Jethro Kloss in Back to Eden: A Human Interest Story of Health and Restoration to be Found in Herb, Root, and Barkce

Nutrients That Support a Healthy Heart and Balanced Fire Energy
Magnesium very importantly supports calcium to function properly in the heart and nerve tissues. An interesting benefit of magnesium is that it also restrains the “anxiety peptide” in the brain which appears to contribute to anxiety.

You can get the magnesium you need with a healthy leafy green and whole grains based diet.

Magnesium in foods that are healing to and balancing for Heart are virtually depleted when grains are milled or refined so again, consume whole and not overly processed grains.

Green foods are magnesium rich. The mineral magnesium is uniquely positioned at the center or “heart” of every chlorophyll molecule.

Traditional Chinese medicine believes that consuming food that is red in color is good for not just your heart and small intestine but also for your brain.

These foods would include carrots, tomato, sweet potato, strawberry, chili, red beans, red pepper, jujube (2), goji berry, dragon fruit, apple, brown sugar, and any other food that is a shade of red.

Do consult your traditional Chinese medicine health practitioner (or alternative health physician) before engaging in practices mentioned in this article.

…

Endnotes:

The parasympathetic(a) nervous system is also known in traditional Chinese medicine as the Triple Heater. The Triple Heater is believed to be a body cavity of some kind which has the ability to influence other organs, and overall health, mainly through the free movement of chi, the fundamental energy or life force.

(a) Parasympathetic relates to the part of the automatic nervous system that counterbalances the action of the sympathetic nerves. It consists of nerves arising from the brain and the lower end of the spinal cord and supplying the internal organs, blood vessels, and glands.

(2) Jujube seeds (Ziziphus jujuba/spinosa) are a widely used Chinese herbal remedy to calm the Spirit and nourish the heart.

Sources:

Haas, Elson M.. Staying Healthy with the Seasons: 21st-Century Edition. United States, Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed, 2012.

Kloss, Jethro. Back to Eden: A Human Interest Story of Health and Restoration to be Found in Herb, Root, and Bark. Bahrain, Back to Eden Books Publishing Company, 2004.

Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods. Poland, North Atlantic Books, 2003.

Why and How to Harness the Peak of Yang Energy of the Summer Solstice

June 2, 2023 phyto5.us

The radiant sun is the source of all human life. The cycle of human life revolves around it. People come and go but the sun remains shining day after day. It never fails us. Steadfast symbol of perpetual life and vibrant energy, we take the sun for granted rarely pausing to appreciate its unceasing life-giving nature and live by its example. The Summer Solstice event is always an opportunity for us to honor and harness the energy of the sun and its aspects and to become part of and expand our consciousness by way of this energetic solar event.

Sunrise on the Summer solstice occurs every year on June 20 or 21. This day is the peak of yang energy ushered in by energetic Summer and the Fire element.

We’ll want to harness this peak of yang energy at this time since the lively energy of yang will begin declining when energetic Fall and the Metal element arrive August 7 and we decline even more profoundly through energetic Winter and the Water element.

We can harness the Summer Solstice peak of yang energy by acknowledging it exists and opening our hearts to it—the heart being one of Fire’s organs according to traditional Chinese medicine. Place your focus on the heart during energetic Summer by 1) feeding the body heart nourishing foods(1) and 2) staying active—a yang energy—so that the heart will receive positive energy and support like improved blood circulation.

When summertime and the Summer Solstice arrives it is very important and integral to your body to remain active. (Please read our recent blog on increasing yang energy here. The article can help you harness this peak of yang energy.)

The quantum energetic Fire element line of skin and hair care by PHYTO5 will also assist you to get the most out of energetic Summer and its yang energy. All products in all five element lines are highly energetic with the highest concentration of this potency found in the Phyt’Ether serums. This unique vibrational quality in the products gives them the ability to balance not just skin, but vital energy and emotions as well.

On the Summer Solstice the sun is at its highest point in the sky and marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. This day marks the start of astronomical summer and the tipping point at which days start to become shorter and nights longer. The Summer Solstice calls for introspection and presence unto ourselves—a hallmark moment in time calling us to creatively and profoundly experience the spirituality, meaning and vibratory frequency of the solstice energies. This event can be extremely powerful in helping to take us to new heights spiritually and vibrationally.

The word solstice comes from the Latin words sol (sun) and stitium (still or stopped). The ancients, even as early as the Stone Age, noticed that as Summer progressed, the sun stopped moving northward in the sky as it began to track southward again as Summer advanced to Fall.

Our forebears from all over the world, undistracted from the rigors of modern daily life and who lived in greater harmony with nature than we do today, noticed there was something very special about the Summer Solstice.

Approximately 800 years ago, Wyoming plains native Americans built the famed 80-foot wide Bighorn stone Medicine Wheel. It was built with 28 spokes one of which pointed to Summer solstice sunrise and another to the Summer solstice sunset.

Chumash Indians of California bored carefully placed holes in walls and ceilings of caves through which only the Summer Solstice light would shine.

Anazazi Indians of New Mexico painted two spirals on a rock in Chaco Canyon. At noon on the Summer Solstice a beam of light pointed to the center of one of the spirals.

In Central America, the Aztecs, Mayans and Toltecs built great temples aligned to the moment of the Summer Solstice sunrise.

In the Mayan city of Chichén Itza in Mexico, the Spiral Tower is built with windows and doors that are oriented to the rising and setting sun at both solstices and equinoxes.

At the ancient Mayan observatory Uaxactún in the Guatemalan rainforest, present day viewers can welcome the Summer on a viewing platform to see the sun rise over a series of small pyramids, an astronomy cluster of four structures, built in exact alignment with the great solar event.

The Summer solstice was the most important day of the year in ancient Egypt when the waters of the Nile would begin to rise at this time. From the view of the Sphinx, the sun sets squarely between the Great Pyramids of Khufu and Khafre on Egypt’s Giza plateau on the Summer solstice.

The solstice was joyfully celebrated in ancient Europe with flower head wreaths, games and bonfires. It was believed that bonfires would boost the sun’s energy for the rest of the growing season and guarantee a good harvest for the Fall. And while the actual purpose, function and origins of Stonehenge, the neolithic megalith monument in the south of England, has been long debated by archeologists, the site happens to be aligned with the direction of the Summer Solstice sunrise.

In ancient China, the Summer Solstice was associated with yin, the feminine force, which is balanced by the yang masculine energy of the Winter Solstice. Festivities celebrated the earth, femininity, and the yin force. The ancient Chinese saw the sun prevailing in Summer with yin energies beginning to wax as yang energies began to wane.

According to some ancient Greek calendars, the Summer Solstice marked the start of the New Year and also marked the one-month countdown to the opening of the Olympic games.

In the days leading up to the Summer Solstice, the ancient Romans celebrated Vestalia to honor Vesta, goddess of the hearth. At this time married women left offerings in the temple of Vesta as pleas and prayers for blessings for their families.

Midsummer was a pivotal time of year for the Vikings, who would meet to discuss legal matters and resolve disputes around this auspicious time.

Cultures around the world still celebrate the day with feasts, bonfires, picnics and song. Today, people dance around bonfires that blaze on hilltops in Cornwall, Wales and Ireland. Yoga centers and spiritual circles around the world usher in the solstice with drumming and chanting.

Each one of us has the individual opportunity to dive deeper into life and the Summer season by becoming more deeply acquainted with the Summer Solstice. One way is by intimately experiencing the darkness of the evening preceding the solstice to assist us to know and appreciate the light of the Summer Solstice sun the next morning more fully.

Here is a list of simple yet powerful practices to help us usher in the Summer Solstice more consciously while embracing the peak of yang energy.

Eat simply throughout the day leading up to evening.
In the evening, turn out all the lights in your home.
Unplug your television, computer, and all electrical devices.
Light candles.
Go outside, outstretch your arms and breathe in the night air.
Take a long walk during this evening. Take note of the stars and the clouds.
Light a fire outside, if possible. If you don’t have a firepit, use a portable grill.

Play an instrument fireside if you can.
Sing or chant quietly and reverentially.
Bake potatoes in the fire you built.
Lay down on a blanket near the fire and doze.

Go back inside and read a book by candlelight.
Take time to sit in silence.
Wake up before dawn that day to be ready to greet the rising sun.

Feel the energy and the presence of your ancestors.
Relish the power of the rising sun.

Sing a song or whisper a prayer in honor of the dawn.

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Endnotes:

Red fruits and vegetables, (red being the yang color associated with energetic Summer and the Fire element) are considered by traditional Chinese medicine to be beneficial to a warm heart with a healthy chi.

Sources:

“Chinese Summer Solstice Features Feminine Energy and Cold Noodles.” eChineseLearning Blog Chinese Summer Solstice Features Feminine Energy and Cold Noodles Comments, www.echineselearning.com/blog/chinese-summer-solstice-features-feminine-energy-and-cold-noodles#:~:text=Ancient%20Chinese%20saw%20the%20summer,Yang%20energies%20begin%20to%20wane. Accessed 2 June 2023.

“The Vestalia: Celebrating Vesta and Purifying Rome.” History and Archeology Online, https://historyandarchaeologyonline.com/the-vestalia-celebrating-vesta-and-purifying-rome, 6 June 2019

“History of Summer Solstice Traditions.” National Trust United Kingdom, https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/discover/history/history-of-summer-solstice-traditions

How and Why to Increase Yang Energy Activity During Energetic Summer and the Fire Element

May 30, 2023 phyto5.us

One of the foundational tenets of traditional Chinese medicine is that of adjusting our lifestyle habits to align with the seasons. These lifestyle habits include how we eat, move, and live throughout the year as we experience the changes of each of the five seasons of traditional Chinese medicine. This is a mindful practice and a rhythmic approach to living where we learn to adapt, flow and enjoy life more. We ease into ways of living that work very well in support of body, mind, and soul. This type of rhythmic living helps us avoid stress and its harmful effects and it elevates our well-being.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, energetic Summer which begins May 6 and runs until July 19 every year is the season of the Fire element. Summer is the most yang period of the year—a time of expansion, peak vitality, and outward and upward movement.

At the Summer Solstice is when this Summer yang energy peaks. Yang represents the day while yin represents the night and at the Summer Solstice we mark the longest day and the shortest night of the year. On the Summer Solstice we have the most yang day of the year and the peak of yang Fire energy.

Balance of Yin and Yang
In traditional Chinese medicine, balance is always sought in order to achieve and maintain wellness. The ancient Chinese recognized the duality of our universe and saw that all things were composed of energy and that energy was composed of two complementary yet opposing actions. These two forces are yin and yang and they're interdependent and interconnected.

The ancient Chinese and we today can see that a natural ebb and flow of yin and yang energies is constantly occurring throughout all of life. We must acknowledge and embrace this ebb and flow as part of the cycle of life if we wish to live harmonious lives as part of the natural world. Balancing yin and yang energies is essential for balance of body, mind and spirit.

Summer Is Yang
The five seasons of the year each represent either a yin or yang energy primarily and for Summer, its energy is primarily yang—the energy associated with action, movement and change. Yang is the moving, dynamic, warming aspect within nature and our bodies.

Even if we don’t have background in traditional Chinese medicine, we sense all this, because we feel this expansion of energy in different ways during energetic Summer. The days become longer. We enjoy more sunlight and energy. We feel like engaging in more activities and we find it easier to gain momentum. We even feel more outwardly social and instinctively look for ways to engage with the world.

Both yin and yang principles play an important role in how active we are at any point in the year. There are types of exercise or movement that will best suit each season’s yin or yang expression.

In Summer, since the Fire energy is very yang and all about action, movement and change, we’ll want to align the movement of our physical bodies with a similar kind of energy and action. Activity and exercise are especially important at this time to keep the pores open and chi flowing smoothly throughout the body.

“To increase yang, spend more time in active, ambitious pursuits. Cultivate your outer expression, physical strength, firmness and personal interactions. Initiate projects. In your home, use warm colors - yellow-green, yellows, oranges, and reds.”

— Hope Karan Gerecht in Healing Design: Practical Feng Shui for Healthy and Gracious Living

Our bodies’ chi and energy are at their peaks during the season of Fire so we can take advantage of the window of opportunity the season provides for getting projects we were planning all Winter and Spring finally done.

Yang Tissues and Exercise
The body itself has yin and yang tissues. Yang tissues are the ones we are most familiar with—our muscles. It’s no coincidence that Summer yang activities and exercise target the muscles and involve rhythmic repetitive movements. Our Summer exercise should tend to push us a little more, needing to use more force to achieve our health and fitness goals. An aligned fitness goal for Summer would be to build strength or endurance in our muscular tissue.

Activating our yang tissues by exercising will definitely provide a plethora of health benefits, however if we solely focus on yang activities during Summer, this can wear our bodies down and heighten the fight-or-flight response in our nervous systems. A yin practice like walking to balance a gym workout invites us to slow down, be more present in our bodies and relax into the moment.

How to Work with and Benefit from Summer Yang

Cultivate your yang chi energy by sunbathing, but be sure to use sun protection.
Avoid prolonged stays in air conditioned cold rooms. This causes chi and blood stagnation.
Avoid excessive sweating when exercising.
Get sufficient sleep. You can go to sleep late but by 11 p.m. is best. Get up early. Do not be tempted to sleep too long in the morning. A midday nap is also very beneficial during Summer.
Augment your regular exercise schedule with a short period of morning exercise when your yang is rising. This practice also nourishes the mind. Do not exercise immediately on rising. First, drink a cup of warm water and then do not too strenuous morning exercises for about 20 to 30 minutes. Qi gong, yoga and tai chi are perfect for this.

Types of Summer Yang Exercise

Exercise every day enough to just break a sweat, but do not overexert and drink a good deal of water when you’re finished.

Enjoy any sort of outdoor activity.

Practice strength training, muscle building, core exercises and short high-intensity training(HIIT) sessions.

Make sure you include cardiovascular/aerobic exercise:

“Cardiovascular fitness goes a long way in maintaining adaptation for the Fire Type. At the least, a brisk walk every day of at least thirty minutes can make a huge impact. If health and age allow for it, jogging or other aerobic exercises should be part of a daily routine. Many of my patients state they don’t have the time to set aside for this type of commitment, to which I reply that they don’t have any choice. Studies have shown that walking for shorter periods twice a day accomplishes the same training effect as one longer session. For the Fire Type especially, caring for the Heart is the first priority.”

— Charles A. Moss, MD in Power of the Five Elements: The Chinese Medicine Path to Healthy Aging and Stress Resistance

The more active practice of yang yoga works on the yang muscles and blood flow while building strength, stamina and flexibility. These types of yoga include power vinyasa (provides rhythm and repetition), ashtanga, and Bikram.

For the really athletic, there’s high jumping, running, and sprinting.

Take an evening walk. The mind can become easily distracted in Summer and an evening walk can help nourish the mind with quiet and tranquility not to mention it will help balance your more strenuous activities of the day.

Do some Summer evening stretching to loosen muscles and movement. This can help promote systemic blood circulation, thereby reducing your cardiac burden and improving your quality of sleep.

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Sources:

Yin and Yang: Unlocking the Power of Harmony. N.p., Xspurts.com.

A TCM Way to be Healthy, Inside and Out. N.p., FriesenPress, 2017.

Moss, Charles A. Power of the Five Elements: The Chinese Medicine Path to Healthy Aging and Stress Resistance. United States, North Atlantic Books, 2011.

Gerecht, Hope Karan. HealingDesign: Practical Feng Shui for Healthy and Gracious Living. United States, Journey Editions, 1999.

Benefit from the Superior Swiss Water Purity of Jurassic History in PHYTO5 Skincar

May 21, 2023 phyto5.us

Water is the most life-sustaining fluid on the planet, and nowhere is it naturally more pure than in Switzerland. PHYTO5 skincare uses this pure Swiss mountain water in all its formulations.

Switzerland is widely known and recognized for providing the best quality drinking water to its citizens. The Swiss enjoy incredibly pure water right out of the tap in a way that no other country quite enjoys. Even though the Swiss tend to consume more high calorie foods, they have one of the lowest obesity rates in the world. A major factor is that the large amounts of completely safe indigenous water Swiss people drink cleanses and purifies their bodies.

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“It will be important to acknowledge that safe water is one of essential components or needs for healthy living, along with adequate sanitation and proper nutrition. Together, these are the essential health needs to be met in the developing and the developed world. All three contribute to reduced disease and increased health, and the lack of one can degrade the beneficial impact of the others.”

— Mark D. Sobsey, PhD., Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina

MySwitzerland.com says:

“The water distributed in Switzerland meets very high-quality standards. Eighty percent of the water comes from underground sources, the rest is taken from the lakes. The establishment of groundwater protection zones makes it possible to distribute half of this water without having to treat it. It can be drunk from every tap without posing a health hazard. Tap water in Switzerland also has a much better ecological balance than bottled mineral water.”

And finally, we see how prized a resource water is to the Swiss as we read this from the Wasser für Wasser (Water for Water) Organization, Switzerland(1):

“Swiss drinking water is of very high quality and meets strict guidelines regarding hygiene and safety. Like any natural product, tap water contains trace substances, but due to the stringent regulations on drinking water treatment, their concentration is at such a low level that it can be drunk without hesitation.

In view of the long-term goal of supplying the Swiss population with natural and healthy drinking water, it must nevertheless be stated: The quality of Switzerland’s drinking water is decisively a product of our use of the resource water. Effective water protection measures and their consistent implementation are essential if we want to ensure the high quality of our tap water for future generations.”

In the process of providing such pure water to their citizens, the Swiss government takes many measures to keep the country’s water resources and environment intact. The country is ranked #1 by the World Health Organization (WHO) for water quality. This is because of the nation’s strict treatment standards and superior natural resources. In fact, Swiss tap water is as pure as its bottled water but it is 500 times cheaper.

The U.S. doesn’t even come close to matching the water quality of Switzerland or several other European nations, for that matter. In fact, the WHO ranks the U.S. currently sixty-fourth in rural drinking water quality and 26th overall.

Swiss Jura Mountain Water in PHYTO5 Swiss Skincare
Switzerland is known as the water tower of Europe. Most of the largest rivers in Europe are sourced in Switzerland. Eighty percent of Swiss drinking water stems from natural springs and groundwater and the rest comes from lakes.

The Swiss Jura mountain water in PHYTO5 skincare specifically comes from the Jura(2) mountains. ‘Jura’ is the Celtic word for ‘forest.’

The Jura mountains are a sub-alpine mountain range located north of the Western Alps mainly following the course of the France–Switzerland border in the cantons of Basel-Landschaft, Solothurn, Jura, Bern, Neuchâtel, and Vaud. The Swiss lab where PHYTO5 energetic skincare is made, Laboratoire Gibro, S. A., is located in the canton of Neuchâtel. Lakes Neuchâtel, Biel (Bienne), and Morat, connected by canals, are survivors of a former glacial lake in the lower Aare valley located at the base of the Jura Mountains.

Swiss Jura mountains near Fleurier, Switzerland — **Jura mountains near Fleurier, Switzerland, home of PHYTO5’s factory, Laboratoire Gibro**

The Jura mountains are rich in mineral and thermal springs. This is because both their tectonic fragmentation and pronounced relief structure allow groundwater to hydraulically rise from great depths to the surface.

The pristine fresh water used in PHYTO5 skincare comes from a Karst system in the Swiss Jura mountains. Karst topography is a landscape formed from the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. It is characterized by underground drainage systems with sinkholes and caves.

Areuse ravine, Switzerland — **Areuse gorges, Switzerland**

Underground stream sources from the Jura are many including the Areuse (situated close to Fleurier, Switzerland and PHYTO5’s Laboratoire Gibro), Schüss (Suze), and Birs rivers in Switzerland.

Areuse gorges, Switzerland — **Areuse ravine, Switzerland**

Quality In, Quality Out
If you’ve ever had the occasion to drink tea, coffee or beer, for example, that have been made using ultra high integrity pure water (not the kind of water we buy in the U.S. labeled “Purified”), you will be struck by the remarkable quality and taste in the end product. Water is actually the most important ingredient in all three beverages. When it is very very pure, the beverage product is remarkably delicious. And just as it works in these beverages, so, too, does Swiss water elevate the quality and performance of Swiss-made skincare products.

Only water that is free of toxins, pollutants and microbes is allowed to be used in the formulation of skincare products. This water would be distilled or purified by the cosmetic manufacturer. But while other skincare companies say they use purified water in their cosmetics content, almost none overall can say they use Swiss Jura mountain water.

In PHYTO5’s case, the lab in Fleurier, Switzerland additionally passes this already pristine water through high tech filters before adding the water to skincare formulations in order to extra-purify it. This water supports your vitality when consumed by osmosis through the skin.

The pure and balanced Swiss Jura mountain water has a similar mission to the premium grade essential oils, extracts and high tech natural compounds that make up PHYTO5 skincare. Its mineral composition encourages tissue regeneration, revitalizes cellular metabolism, and exhilarates the skin’s natural defense system.

The Vibration of Life and Vitality
So we see how completely the water in PHYTO5 Swiss holistic skincare is ultra-pure, nourishing, and life-supporting. And not only is that water already extremely pure, Swiss Jura mountain water emits a higher vibration than water used in cosmetics manufactured in or near big cities and which has been insulted by being transported through big city piping networks. All things carry a vibratory frequency and this concept is especially evident in water.

**Evidence of high vibration in a water molecule crystallized**

Water is a carrier of vibration—low or high according to its source and its treatment—and that vibratory frequency gets passed on to you when you consume it through drinking or absorbing it through the skin.

Renowned Japanese researcher Masaru Emoto (1943-2014), who proved human consciousness has an effect on the molecular structure of water and who conducted now famous experiments on water purity and vibration said:

“We strenuously observed crystals of tap water, river water, and lake water. From the tap water from rivers and lakes near big cities, we could not get any beautiful crystals [indicating high vibration]… however from the water from rivers and lakes where water is kept pristine from development, we could observe beautiful crystals with each one having its own uniqueness.”

So the added benefit of PHYTO5 skincare is the higher vibratory frequency of the principle ingredient, pristine Swiss mountain water. That higher vibratory frequency adds to the product and then to your skin.

Water is the Principle Ingredient In Almost All Skincare
All skincare contains some degree of ‘aqua,’ the name utilized on official ingredient lists in the European Union. Water is the most precious and most widely utilized ingredient in the cosmetics industry, often appearing first on the product’s list of ingredients. Depending on the product category, beauty products may contain anywhere from 60% to 85% water on average. Rinse-off products, such as haircare, shower gels or cleansers, may contain up to 95% water.

While it is difficult to determine the exact percentage of water content in a skincare product, if “water” or “aqua” are the first words appearing in the list of ingredients, this means that the product contains more water than any other ingredient.

Water is a primary ingredient in most skincare because it is a universal solvent. Combined with emulsifiers, water can be mixed with denser ingredients such as butters and oils to facilitate the formation of emulsions in creams and lotions. Water also plays an essential role in the extraction and manufacture of many natural raw materials such as plant extracts.

Water plays an enormous role in all phases of the production, supply and consumer usage of skincare products. There is currently a budding conservationist trend in the formulation of skincare products—that of creating anhydrous solid skin and haircare formulations without water. Water-free cosmetics support the reduction and elimination of packaging while conserving water, but water must still be used on the backend by the consumer to activate the product. Still other companies are beginning to opt for using recycled water in their skincare formulations in their efforts to conserve.

There may be potential benefits to solid anhydrous skincare especially if the water that would otherwise have been utilized must go through somewhat rigorous purification processes. But the Swiss Jura mountain water which is the kind formulated into PHYTO5 skincare does not fall into that category since it does not need such rigorous purification processes.

Today, there is a definitely a movement of growing environmental consumer consciousness. More and more people are opting for natural and organic products not only for their own well-being support but for the well-being of the planet. At the same time, we should look to products made that honor the Earth and the very wellspring that gives life to all—water. And nowhere is it found in greater reverence and purity than in Switzerland.

“We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.”

— Jacques Yves Cousteau

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on July 15, 2022 but has been significantly expanded in this post for freshness and comprehensiveness.

#####

Endnotes:

Wasser für Wasser is the Swiss non-profit organization with a vision to change the way we use water. We are committed to safe access to drinking water and sanitation for all, to raising awareness of the value of clean water and sanitation, and to the eco-friendly consumption of water.
The term ‘Jurassic’ is an adjective of or pertaining to the geological period between the Triassic and Cretaceous periods and comes from the french ‘Jurassique,’ which literally means “of the Jura Mountains” between France and Switzerland whose limestones were laid down during this geological period.

Sources:

Top 10 Healthy Things To Do In Switzerland, March 29, 2016: http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/top-10-healthiest-things-switzerland/

Top 10 Countries With the Best Tap Water by Sammy Said; http://www.therichest.com/expensive-lifestyle/location/top-10-countries-with-the-best-tap-water/

Wonder Water: The Value of Water, EuroGeo Surveys: The Geological Surveys of Europe http://www.eurogeosurveys.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Water-Book-Layout_full-low-double-no-print.pdf

– Encyclopedia Brittanica

Sobsey, Mark D, and S Bartram. “Water quality and health in the new millennium: the role of the World Health Organization Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality.” Forum of nutrition vol. 56 (2003): 396-405.

Beech Tree Bud Extract of Everlasting Youth: How It Helps Mitigate Signs of Aging in the Ski

May 12, 2023 phyto5.us

The powerful extract of the beech tree bud (Fagus sylvatica) found in Ageless La Cure’s firming Eye Serum is created from naturally fallen buds which occur at a precise point in the more than 200-year-old life of the beech tree. The beech tree, native to temperate Europe, Asia, and North America, is also known as the 'Tree of Everlasting Youth.’ Understanding the botanical aspects of beech assists us to understand why its extracts promote cell renewal and youth. This article primarily focuses on the extract of the beech bud only.

The beech tree is a member of the Fagaceae family which includes oak and chestnut trees. Embodying strength and elegance, the height of this deciduous tree can exceed 115 feet. It reaches maturity at 60 years and can live up to two and half centuries. The beech tree can continue to grow almost all its long life and is able to prevail very well against all other species.

Beech tree actually shares its longevity genes with you when you use Firming Eye Serum. This is the science of nutrigenomics in action: the interaction of nutrition and genes, especially with regard to the prevention or treatment of disease and degeneration.

Taking this concept one step further, the relatively new understanding of a principle called xenohormesis asserts that certain molecules in plants when shared with the human body can have significant health- and longevity-enhancing effects that could possibly turn out to surpass anything current pharmaceuticals can achieve.

The skin is the largest organ of the body and it absorbs more than 60% of what we put on it. The ingredients of our skincare penetrate the body and join the bloodstream either nourishing or toxifying not just skin but body. It’s common sense that nutrigenomics and xenohormesis also apply to the ‘nutrition’ we topically provide to the skin and that beech tree bud extract has the potential to share its coded energetic, survival and longevity information with your genes. (Read our more exhaustive blog on the topics of nutrigenomics and xenohormesis here.)

The buds of the beech tree are highly energetic. This means they are full of alive vibrational potency. They can produce an abundance of plant material (leaves) as large as a 14-inch stem producing close to a dozen leaves. The buds grow alternately, one at a joint (not in pairs), on the twigs. Each bud is naturally arranged to ensure that every leaf that sprouts from it gets the maximum amount of sunlight.

It is because of this intense energy of growth and strength that its extract increases activity of skin cells.

Beech tree bud extract contains hydroxyproline(1) that helps build collagen and elastin in the skin. In fact, beech tree buds’ hydroxyproline content is the primary reason for harvesting the buds for use in skincare.

The extract is vitamin-rich and contains powerful plant growth hormones. These hormones assist in active cell turnover and help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines which is why beech tree bud extract was chosen to be a unique ingredient in firming Eye Serum. The extract of beech tree buds improves cellular oxygen consumption and the synthesis of keratinocyte protein which strengthens the architecture of the epidermis.

Beech tree bud extract is found to perform equally as well, if not better than, niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 and cell repair antioxidant that has the potential to improve an array of skin concerns including acne and hyperpigmentation. This is not to infer that beech tree bud extract contains vitamin B3. It does not but it provides very similar skin repair actions to those of the vitamin.

Beech tree bud extract:

improves cutaneous moisturization and is especially good for thirsty skin;
helps prevent wrinkles and fine lines;
reduces the depth of fine lines;
revitalizes skin by boosting protein synthesis;
firms and tones the skin by strengthening the epidermal structure;
oxygenates the body and skin and fights free radicals critical for health and the natural slowing of aging;
stimulates cell oxygen consumption increasing oxygen uptake (+71%);(2)
soothes inflamed skin;
inhibits the buildup of dead skin cells.

The famed youth-promoting buds are harvested for their intense concentration of polyphenols,(3) amino acids, and other primary metabolites (substances necessary for metabolism) that will enhance the effects of the extract.

The high energy actives, flavonoids(4) and peptides(5) found in the extract, are the key elements responsible for improving the epidermal structure of the skin that results in firmer, younger skin that presents a more even texture.

Beech tree bud extract also, and just as importantly as all of the above, has a large glutathione content. This antioxidant is a major part of the tree’s own defense mechanism. Glutathione is a master antioxidant and an ancient metabolite able to perform modern tasks in the body. (Antioxidants are responsible for fighting free radicals in the body that cause premature aging.) Glutathione is generally produced by the body, however its production does decrease with age. The beech tree’s gift of glutathione can be an important adjunct to your age-mitigating strategy.

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Endnotes:

(1) A metabolite of proline both of which are unique amino acids and comprise approximately one-third of collagen protein in the body.

(2) One beech tree alone can provide enough oxygen for 10 people for one year.

(3) Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found largely in the fruits, vegetables, cereals and beverages. They are secondary metabolites (substance necessary for metabolism) of plants and are generally involved in defense against ultraviolet radiation or aggression by pathogens

(4) Phytonutrients (plant chemicals) found in all vegetation.

(5) Naturally occurring biological molecules found in all living organisms and playing a key role in all manner of biological activity.

Sources:

Wohlleben, Peter. Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate: Discoveries from a Secret World. Greystone Books, 2018.

Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi. “Plant Polyphenols as Dietary Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease.” Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Landes Bioscience, 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835915/.

Wu, Guoyao, et al. “Proline and Hydroxyproline Metabolism: Implications for Animal and Human Nutrition.” Amino Acids, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3773366/.

Edelweiss Essential Oil: Signature Properties and Benefits In Anti-Aging Skincar

May 1, 2023 phyto5.us

The extract of the alpine mountain flower Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum), which is part of the sunflower family, has been found to have incredible age-mitigating antioxidant power and it has attracted much interest from today's skincare industry. For this reason and many others, edelweiss essential oil is known as an anti-aging and regenerating oil, supporting skin’s elasticity.

Edelweiss essential oil can be found in Ageless La Cure Perfection Cream which works to reduce and eliminate brown spots associated with aging or sun damaged skin as well as inhibit melanin production that causes new spots to form.

PHYTO5 has also formulated Face Gel with edelweiss essential oil as unique ingredient. And edelweiss extract is a unique ingredient in Face Gel Mask.

Edelweiss is known to strengthen skin’s natural barrier against the penetration of pollutants and it also supports epidermal water management protecting skin against trans-epidermal water loss.

Active compounds in Leontopodium not only help prevent or slow the signs of premature aging in the skin, they calm irritation and protect the integrity of blood vessels to impede the appearance of fine thread veins under the skin.

Edelweiss is one of nature’s most potent protectors against the harmful effects of too much sunlight since it has had to protect itself from intense mountaintop sunlight. The carotenoid and vitamin E content of edelweiss is part of what offers this protection, however there is far more to it than these as you will read throughout this article.

The benefits to skin which edelweiss offers are scientifically proven:

“The clinical test in vivo demonstrated that constant application of LACCE [(Leontopodium Alpinum callus culture extract] on the face and skin tissues improved anti-periorbital wrinkles, skin elasticity, dermal density, and skin thickness compared with the placebo.”

— Won Kyong Cho et al in Anti-Aging Effects of Leontopodium alpinum (Edelweiss) Callus Culture Extract through Transcriptome Profiling

The Physical Construct
Edelweiss has woolly white bracts(1) around its small flowers and downy gray-green leaves. The woolly bracteal leaves, acute and arranged in a star formation, serve to attract pollinating insects. The bright white color of the woolly petals is the result of thousands of microscopic air bubbles that reflect the light issuing an invitation for insects to pollinate.

The white fuzziness of the bloom also creates protection against evaporation, ultraviolet radiation and the harsh cold. In addition, the snow itself that falls at such high altitudes in the Alps also serves as a protective coat for the plant.

Edelweiss naturally grows in limey soils in broken and crumbly rock meadows from altitudes of between 3,300 to close to 11,500 feet. Edelweiss is in danger of becoming extinct in Europe's mountain habitats because of excessive collection and is now a protected species whose gathering is controlled but mostly forbidden. For the last twenty years, alpine edelweiss has been carefully and organically cultivated to compensate for this loss. Still cultivated in the Alps away from the busyness of human life, edelweiss plants are allowed to benefit from their unique Alpine environment free of pollution while they enjoy high soil terroir(2) and pure Swiss water irrigation.

The Leontopodium flowers bloom in the Alps between July and September. They are often cultivated and sold in pots for home and garden enjoyment however since they are cultivated differently at low altitudes for this purpose, they are usually taller, have little of their trademark woolliness and are not their natural beautiful white but are instead a greenish color. This is because the plant has no longer had to exert itself to survive in harsh conditions. It has no need to generate woolliness or its bright white color as alpine cultivated Leontopodium does for the myriad of reasons mentioned in this article.

We discuss this concept at length in our blog, Nutrigenomics and Xenohormesis: Two Recently Coined Scientific Terms Whose Understanding Is Vital to Our Quality Longevity. In it we discuss the same concept that applies to the properties that edelweiss essential oil can pass on to you through your skin:

“A biological principle exists that explains how it is that we can derive health benefits from eons of plant stress response evolution: Environmentally stressed plants, through the ages, have produced bioactive compounds that can confer stress resistance and survival benefits to humans and animals that consume them…”

Against all odds, Edelweiss, which grows at great heights on cliffsides and in other dangerous areas, offers the benefits of centuries of stress response, namely, survival and regeneration to the skin in PHYTO5’s Face Gel Mask and Perfection Cream for hyperpigmentation.”

Uniquely, edelweiss produces its own antioxidants called leontopodic acids. In addition to their customary free radical fighting function, these acids exhibit a strong ability to protect collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin. They limit the degradation of vital macromolecules found in skin.

Often called the cloud flower, the name edelweiss is a mid-nineteenth century term from the German edel meaning noble and weiss meaning white.

The botanical name Leontopodium alpinum comes from the Greek leontos, the genitive of leon meaning lion and podion, a diminutive of pous meaning foot. We can translate the botanical name then as small lion’s foot which refers to the shape of the flower which might remind us of a lion’s paw. The specific epithet alpinum derived from latin quite obviously means from the Alps.

As the pictures in the slideshow above demonstrate, edelweiss has silvery white felt-like blossoms shaped like a star. The dense hairy texture of the bloom appears to protect the plant from cold, arid conditions and ultraviolet radiation. In fact, the ability of edelweiss to protect against ultraviolet radiation occurs, in part, by reflecting it. This ability is the plant’s signature.(3)

Its fleece also prevents dehydration and shields the plant against the cold.

Edelweiss is extremely rich in natural antioxidants that protect the skin from damaging age, sickness and disease-causing free radicals:

Chlorogenic acid present in edelweiss cleanses as well as removes potentially damaging oxidizing agents. Chlorogenic acid is a natural compound that works in the body to help reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes and cancer, and it supports the circulatory and nervous systems.
Luteolin, a common flavonoid and antioxidant that exists in many types of plants including fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various diseases such as hypertension, inflammatory disorders, and cancer. Having multiple biological objectives such as helping to reduce inflammation and allergic reactions, luteolin functions biochemically as either an antioxidant or a pro-oxidant as appropriate. It protects the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Edelweiss contains antioxidant derivatives of the bisabolene (aromatic) sesquiterpene (a natural compound constituent of all essential oils). It offers a calming action to the skin. Sesquiterpene molecules deliver oxygen molecules to cells similar to the way hemoglobin does in the blood. Sesquiterpenes naturally delete bad information in cellular memory.
Beta-sisterol, a plant sterol which appears to offer a number of overall health benefits and calms and soothes the skin, reduces the amount of free oxygen radicals in tissues which drive chronic, excessive inflammation and oxidation known to promote aging.

Evidenced pharmacological activities of edelweiss include:

the capacity of extract of edelweiss to inhibit the migration of the cells responsible for inflammation such as leucocytes(4) and mastocytes(5) thus creating potential anti-inflammatory properties;
antimicrobial properties, which have been proved, at least in laboratory, to combat pathogens such as enterococci, staphylococci and streptococci.

Other studies suggest the presence of substances in Leontopodium that might have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, stimulating synapse activity via one of its amino acids, acetylcholine, which acts as a neurotransmitter. This action could lead to potential memory improvement as well as applications for patients with dementia.

History
Historically, edelweiss extract has been used to treat a number of physical conditions such as abdominal disorders, heart conditions, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever and dysentery. It was cooked with butter and honey and used to treat respiratory ills.

Because of the wide array of active compounds found in the plant, edelweiss was and still is used today in traditional medicine of Alpine countries as an astringent, antitussive, anti-rheumatic, and anti-dysenteric. It is mainly utilized in powder form, as an infusion, as an alcohol-based tincture or simply as a preparation when boiled in milk and honey (or butter and honey).

An infusion of the plant was used during Summer in Eastern Europe to help protect skin from the sun. Many women washed theirs faces with the infusion for a healthy glow since the flower improved microcirculation in skin.

Because of its unique appearance, its typically high mountain habitat and its rarity, edelweiss has become the symbol of alpinism and mountains since around the year 800. It’s a symbol of the development of Alpine tourism and exploration. In two Alpine countries, Switzerland and Austria, edelweiss is practically the national symbol.

Many European clubs, associations and military troops have inserted the flower into their emblems. Its use in coats of arms and armorial bearings signify daring nobility, purity and immortality.

The name Edelweiss has been given to a plethora of restaurants, hotels and other tourist attractions not just in the Alpine region but all over the world.

Edelweiss is considered a symbol of boldness and courage and the conquest of great challenges. Greedy flower collectors have snatched edelweiss for use not just because of its symbolic value but because they have found that Leontopodium conserve their characteristics even if dried.

In Hanokotoba (the Japanese form of the language of flowers or floriography and a means of cryptological communication through the use or arrangement of flowers), the flower symbolizes courage and power.

In folklore, edelweiss is believed to provide powers of invisibility and bullet-proof protection. If you’ve seen the classic movie, The Sound of Music, you’ll remember how the Von Trapp family quietly sang the patriotic song, Edelweiss, during one of the final scenes of the film and were protected from the Nazis as if invisible.

Leontopodium was also used for preparing love potions and was believed to gladden one’s heart and fill it with joy. People felt it had magical powers helping make dreams come true.

Conclusion
True Alpine edelweiss, having survived harsh weather and atmospheric conditions of very high altitudes, is well-equipped to help protect the skin from environmental stressors. It is the constant challenge to survive that lends edelweiss essential oil particularly important in shielding skin from environmental stressors and promoting its anti-aging action when it shares its longevity codes with us through the skin.
#####

Endnotes:

A bract or brachial leaf is a modified leaf or scale, typically small, with a flower or flower cluster in its axil. Bracts are sometimes larger and more brightly colored than the true flower as in poinsettia or edelweiss.
A terroir is the complete natural environment in which a plant is grown, including factors such as the soil, topography, and climate.
In the plant kingdom, a signature is what deviates or is unique or special about the plant over other plants.
A leucocyte is a colorless cell that circulates in the blood and body fluids and is involved in counteracting foreign substances and disease; a white (blood) cell.
A mastocyte is a mast and resident cell of connective tissue that contains many granules rich in histamine (a compound which is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries) and heparin (a compound occurring in the liver and other tissues which inhibits blood coagulation); it is a part of the immune and neuroimmune systems. A mast cell in connective tissue releases histamine and other substances during inflammatory and allergic reactions.

Sources:

Cho WK, Kim HI, Kim SY, Seo HH, Song J, Kim J, Shin DS, Jo Y, Choi H, Lee JH, Moh SH. Anti-Aging Effects of Leontopodium alpinum (Edelweiss) Callus Culture Extract Through Transcriptome Profiling. Genes (Basel). 2020 Feb 21;11(2):230. doi: 10.3390/genes11020230. PMID: 32098197; PMCID: PMC7074254.

Gabriel, Julie. The Green Beauty Guide. United States, Health Communications, 2008.

Morgan, Ned. In the Mountains: The Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Spending Time at Altitude. United Kingdom, Octopus, 2019.

Gregg, Susan. The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Magical Plants, Revised: A Practical Guide to Creating Healing, Protection, and Prosperity Using Plants, Herbs, and Flowers. United Kingdom, Fair Winds Press, 2013.

Vadhera, Shalini. Passport to Beauty: Secrets and Tips from Around the World for Becoming a Global Goddess. United States, St. Martin's Publishing Group, 2006.

Graves, Julia. The Language of Plants: A Guide to the Doctrine of Signatures. United States, Lindisfarne Books, 2012.

Handbook of Formulating Dermal Applications: A Definitive Practical Guide. Germany, Wiley, 2016.

Mazza, Giuseppe. “Leontopodium Nivale.” Monaco Nature Encyclopedia, 6 Oct. 2019, https://www.monaconatureencyclopedia.com/leontopodium-nivale/?lang=en.

Barefoot Walking and Grounding Methods: How Earth's Electrons Can Help You Can Slow Aging and Elevate Your Health and Well-Bein

April 16, 2023 phyto5.us

Grounding, also known as earthing, is a freely available and accessible way to tap into the highly effective and natural medicine known as Earth’s restorative and incalculable energy. It can help rebalance your body to restore you to greater levels of health and vitality. The best most direct way to get grounded by the Earth is to go barefoot as often as you can. Going barefoot has been shown by many a devotée of the practice to significantly slow the process of aging. It offers a whole host of other remarkable benefits as we’ll discuss throughout this article.

There’s a reason why most of us kick off our shoes when we get home from work or an outing and it isn’t just to save our carpet: It feels good.

“Research shows that going barefoot strengthens our feet, makes them more flexible and improves body alignment. Why, then, are we buying shoes for infants who can’t yet walk? Wearing high heels that hurt with every step? Spending hundreds of dollars on running and hiking shoes? Some of us are following social conventions or fashion trends. Most of us think we’re protecting our feet and keeping them clean.”

— barefoot walking guru, Dr. L. Daniel Howell in The Barefoot Book: 50 Great Reasons to Kick Off Your Shoes

At the least, wearing most shoes can:

upset natural weight distribution
overload joints
decrease foot flexibility
reduce shock absorbtion of the arch
cause bunions and in-grown toenails

But even more than these, our disconnect with nature along and our innate ability to heal caused by our present day modern lifestyle is proving to be a major contributor to overall physiological dysfunction and lack of wellness. But barefoot walking is a simple practice that can help reverse that disconnect.

By barefoot walking, we literally reestablish our connection to our Earth Mother while our body utilizes Earth’s electrons for healing. It has been said that Earth functions as a “global treatment table” when we connect to Earth in this way.

If you prefer not to go barefoot, there are other ways to ground yourself such as sitting, working, or sleeping indoors while you’re connected to earthing devices. These devices bring the Earth's electrons from the ground outside and transfer them through the device into the body.

But going barefoot does so much more than grounding. It not only takes advantage of Earth’s abundance of electrons, it properly and naturally adjusts the body’s posture and internal organs to say nothing of the greater sense of well-being and self-esteem that is achieved simply by being out in nature.

Two hundred thousand neurotransmitters in the soles of the feet send messages about the terrain you are trampling under your feet via neural pathways to the brain. This information assists both body and Earth to work together to heal, protect, strengthen and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. The brain literally responds to the sensory feedback received by the soles of the feet and direct physical contact with the vast supply of healing electrons on the surface of the Earth help to supply energy to the body.

An example of earthing’s restorative effects on the body is the one of acclaimed author and expert on Colorado flora, Dr. Bill Weber. On his best days he’d have to walk with either a walker or two walking poles, but he began walking barefoot at age 90 and within months ditched both walker and poles for the freedom of walking on his own two legs doing laps barefoot around his neighborhood. He died March 18, 2020 but he’d made it past 100 years of age.

In Sue Regan Kenney’s delightful book, How To Wear Bare Feet, she recounts her personal story of feeling the ravages of degeneration at just age 55.

Says Kenney:

“I began thinking about how our First Nations people had stayed so healthy. They wore moccasins with no support, slept on hides on the ground, used herbs for medicine, did ceremony and ate food foraged from the forest. Was something in the Earth missing in our holistic approach to wellness? From that place I researched barefooting and learned about earthing, human movement, foot function, anti-aging, footwear dangers, and why I was afraid of falling.”

The intimate account Kenney shares in her book along with Dr. Bill Weber’s story above prove that anyone can get started walking barefoot at any age and enjoy a significant range of natural health and vitality benefits.

Scientific studies are finding that the influx of free electrons absorbed into the body through direct contact with the Earth neutralizes free radicals and thereby reduces acute and chronic inflammation and slows aging, in many cases, actually reversing certain symptoms of aging.

“Throughout history, humans mostly walked barefoot or with footwear made of animal skins. They slept on the ground or on skins. Through direct contact or through perspiration-moistened animal skins used as footwear or sleeping mats, the ground’s abundant free electrons were able to enter the body, which is electrically conductive. Through this mechanism, every part of the body could equilibrate with the electrical potential of the Earth, thereby stabilizing the electrical environment of all organs, tissues, and cells.”

— Gaetan Chevalier et al in Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons

Chevalier adds,

“Modern lifestyle has increasingly separated humans from the primordial flow of Earth’s electrons.”

We’ve been increasingly wearing insulating rubber or plastic soled shoes since the 60s and during recent decades, chronic illness, immune disorders, and inflammatory diseases have also increased dramatically so much so that some researchers who cite environmental factors as the cause are beginning to also cite a lack of environment as cause.

Major benefits from grounding have been scientifically found to include:

pain reduction
reduction of primary indicators of osteoporosis
improvement of glucose regulation
enhanced immune response
improved heart rate variability (HRV)*
reduction in tension and overall stress levels
improved healthy sleep

Our bodies are being constantly bombarded by electrical fields. Many people report becoming chronically ill from the constant insult of these frequencies. Earthing actually reduces such electric fields imposed on the body.

A 2005 study by electrical engineer R. Applewhite:

“… showed that when the body is grounded, its electrical potential becomes equalized with the Earth’s electrical potential through a transfer of electrons from the Earth to the body. This, in turn, prevents the 60 Hz mode from producing an AC electric potential at the surface of the body and from producing perturbations of the electric charges of the molecules inside the body. The study confirms the ‘umbrella’ effect of earthing the body explained by Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman in his lectures on electromagnetism. Feynman said that when the body potential is the same as the Earth’s electric potential (and thus grounded), it becomes an extension of the Earth’s gigantic electric system. The Earth’s potential thus becomes the ‘working agent that cancels, reduces, or pushes away electric fields from the body.”

— Chevalier et al. in Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons

Chevalier’s research finds that going barefoot outdoors or getting connected to grounded conductive systems indoors may be a simple but profoundly effective health strategy for dealing with chronic stress, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, inflammation, pain, poor sleep, disturbed HRV,(1) hyper-coagulable blood, cardiovascular disease and more.

In the journal article, The epidemiological Revolution of the 20th Century, by De Flora et al. we read:

“Since the late 20th century, chronic degenerative diseases have overcome infectious disease as the major causes of death in the 21st century, so an increase in human longevity will depend on finding an intervention that inhibits the development of these diseases and slows their progress.”

Grounding ourselves consistently just may be one of the most effective tools in our arsenal to combat degenerative disease.

Go barefoot outdoors as much as you can especially when weather is most cooperative in Spring, Summer and Fall. Let the sensory receptors in your feet help you to feel your happiness and vitality. Take your shoes and socks off. It’s good natural medicine and it’s free.

The simple act of going barefoot has the potential to provide the following advantages to your quality of life:

more efficient movement of the body
slowed aging process
sharpened brain function
increased physical energy
improved posture

Achilles’ heal can be healed
core muscles strengthen
chin naturally settles into proper position
shoulders relax
better postural alignment can be achieved [both knees should touch each other when you stand up]
the back strengthens
the body becomes better able to focus on important functions other than maintain alignment and posture
reduced inflammation

improved balance
reduced stiffness and increased flexibility
regulated body temperature
arches in the feet returned to a more youthful height and spring
lessened, if not eliminated, bunions and calluses (calluses come from the wearing of shoes)
eliminated athlete’s foot or smelly feet
improved dental bite
reversed vaginal atrophy
decreased allergies
improved digestion
more balanced body weight
increased physical strength and muscle definition
strengthened gait and more even stride (Many people tend to shorten their steps as they grow older for fear of falling or for other reasons.)
improved reaction time (reflexes)
relaxation into a more natural state of being

The skin on the soles of the feet adjusts to the barefoot environment quickly. There are no real side-effects to going barefoot.

In summary, the benefits of barefoot walking come from two primary sources:

the electrons when walking on bare earth and
simply from allowing your feet to walk free wherever you walk (so barefoot walking is good to do even on pavement).

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Endnotes:

(1) the physiological phenomenon of variation in the time interval between heartbeats; reduced HRV has been shown to be a predictor of mortality after myocardial infarction, for example; a measurement of the heart's response to autonomic nervous system regulation.

Sources:

Howell, L. Daniel. The Barefoot Book: 50 Great Reasons to Kick Off Your Shoes. Hunter House, 2010.

Sandler, Michael, and Jessica Lee. Barefoot Walking: Free Your Feet to Minimize Impact, Maximize Efficiency, and Discover the Pleasure of Getting in Touch with the Earth. Three Rivers Press, 2013.

Chevalier, Gaétan, et al. “Earthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons.” Journal of Environmental and Public Health, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265077/.

de Flora S, Quaglia A, Bennicelli C, Vercelli M. The epidemiological revolution of the 20th century. FASEB Journal. 2005;19(8):892–897.

Applewhite R. The effectiveness of a conductive patch and a conductive bed pad in reducing induced human body voltage via the application of earth ground. European Biology and Bioelectromagnetics. 2005;1:23–40

Feynman R, Leighton R, Sands M. The Feynman Lectures on Physics. II. Boston, Mass, USA: Addison-Wesley; 1963.

Regan Kenney, Sue. How to Wear Bare Feet. CreateSpace Independent Publishing, 2017.

Stress and Liver Chi Stagnation: What It Is and How to Bring the Flow of Chi Energy Back Into Balance

April 11, 2023 phyto5.us

Flow of chi energy represented by green undulating waves

Liver chi stagnation is a syndrome(1) of the buildup of emotional pressure. It manifests outwardly not just through emotional expression but via physical symptoms as well. Traditional Chinese medicine understands liver chi stagnation in terms of vital energy.

What is vitally important is that we become aware of stress in our lives and learn ways to manage and prevent it otherwise this syndrome can deteriorate into still other syndromes and finally degenerate into chronic illnesses.

The quantum energetic Wood element line of skincare by PHYTO5 is formulated to support your vital energy flow and the most concentrated effect can be found in Wood Phyt’Ether serum for skin, body, scalp and emotions.

In a previous blog entitled, “How the Liver is Directly Involved in Energy Flow, Emotional Balance and Life Planning According to Traditional Chinese Medicine,” we said:

“In traditional Chinese medicine one of the principal roles of the liver, the organ associated with the Wood element and energetic Spring, is to help chi (vital energy) and emotions flow smoothly throughout body and mind. Its physiological function is to dynamically bring smoothness to the flow of chi. If it doesn’t, liver stagnates causing mental, emotional and physical problems.”

And we further explained:

“Liver chi stagnation may also lead to overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, elevated cortisol levels and higher stress levels, and these, in turn, compromise the immune system.”

There are many types of stress. In addition to heart pounding, shallow breathing, forehead sweating stress, sinking into more volatile emotional and darkly depressive states are also forms of stress equated with liver chi stagnation.

“To Chinese medicine, these states into which people get themselves were described over 3,000 years ago. We have just invented new ways to reach them.”

— Jonathan Nigel Clogstoun-Willmott in Qi Stagnation Signs of Stress: Ancient Chinese Secrets–The Way to Master Stress

In the body, stagnant chi energy for many people though not all, causes a sensation of fullness—a feeling of swelling, distention, stuffiness and being blocked up.

As the pressure of stress builds up, the signs of liver chi stagnation may include a number of the following physical and corresponding emotional symptoms:

The Adam’s apple seems to want to push up into the mouth. You have the urge to swallow. The throat tightens and your voice feels strangled. Emotionally speaking this means you feel stuck, challenged to express yourself both generally and creatively. You feel challenged to handle conflicts in a positive way.
Your bladder feels full accompanied by a sudden urge to urinate. The emotion is that of feeling ‘pissed off.’ The rectum tightens creating the urge to pass a stool. You feel damn angry. You lash out.
For women, the breasts feel swollen similar to how they feel pre-menses. The woman cannot offer her innate nurturing compassion to others.
Breathing feels tight and more labored. Your nose may feel narrower on one or both sides. Emotionally, you feel claustrophobic. You want to get away, run away. You’ve lost your confidence.
The ears feel blocked as if you are in a fast ascending elevator. The pressure of stress is so severe you will not or cannot hear truth. In denial, you refuse to hear what you need to hear.
Your eyes feel larger and you need to blink more. This also translates into a lack of clear vision or purpose in life. You “cannot see the forest for the trees.”
The forehead feels pressured and squeezed as if you’re trying to force something from it. Your third eye chakra is blocked. You’re stuck in your head and your calculating, rationalizing ego mind.
Your intestines feel tight and you get cramping. And as the intestines are located in both the sacral and solar plexus emotional regions of the body, you feel angry, frustrated, irritable. You may even experience mood swings and feel depressed and negative. Your creativity is blocked.
The heart pounds as if it’s too large. You feel constricted, unable to make decisions. You can’t give love or receive it. The emotion of gripping fear or panic ensues. You feel stuck. You want to flee, to get away.
Your jaws stiffen, your shoulders tighten and your limbs feel rigid. Your hands are either too hot or too cold. This also translates into an attitude of inflexibility. It’s “your way or the highway” and you leave no room to learn something new.

One way to begin to resolve these stresses before they evolve into something bigger is to tackle what is obvious and more tangible through the simple vehicles like 1) breathing, 2) eating, 3) drinking, 4) exercising, and 5) slowing down. Take care of yourself on this base level and the benefits you derive will tend to cascade into the less visible emotional and energetic levels.

Breathing

In our previous blog entitled, “Six Breaths a Minute to Slow Aging and Its Causes,” we discuss a very simple breathing technique anyone can do to live better and in greater health and ultimately reduce the body’s negative response to stress. (Premature aging is often caused by the ill effects of stress when we are unprepared to respond resiliently to it.) Right breathing, in particular, delivers much required nourishing oxygen to all parts of the body including the Wood element’s organ, the liver.

If you’re really intrigued with learning different breathing techniques, look into the pranayama techniques of yoga.

Eating and Drinking

Green is the 5-element color for the Spring energetic season, the Wood element and the color of plants that begin to sprout in Spring. It's also the color of the food we should consume during the season.

Consuming green foods, especially during energetic Spring, will support your vital energy flow and not just liver but also gall bladder balance.

Green produce, especially when fresh, is imbued with solar energy and light. When you eat green whether it’s spinach, broccoli, green apples, or kiwi, you’re actually also consuming the light they absorbed while growing to energize the body and stimulate your vital energy flow.

Drink green juices made of leafy greens, cucumber and a bit of green apple. Simply by drinking no more than one ounce of wheatgrass juice, you’ll derive enormous cleansing and balancing health benefits.

Many believe that one green smoothie a day will significantly improve your health. The entire smoothie doesn’t have to be made from green ingredients to be a green smoothie. Just add chlorophyll-rich foods to your smoothies like barley grass, chlorella, spirulina, blue green algae, ceremonial grade matcha green tea, parsley, kale or spinach.

Eat green bitters like rye, romaine, asparagus, endive and dandelion greens. They improve digestion, help to alleviate springtime allergies and balance the liver.

Drink dandelion tea. It’s the celebrated liver cleanse tea. Wash the dandelions, snip off the flowers, immerse in hot water and steep for 15 minutes. Or drink hot mint tea to soothe the liver's chi energy.

Slow down with conscious breathing such as the “six breaths a minute” technique mentioned above immediately helps us to slow down and relax the body so that vital energy may flow more freely.

Slowing down doesn’t mean kicking back on the couch and watching television as your only means of relaxation. The Japanese practice called shinrin-yoku or forest bathing can be an exceptionally beneficial practice for melting the effects of stress away, almost immediately.

Surrounding yourself with negative ions which naturally occur in nature will also uplift mind, emotions, body and spirit. For negative ion sources and how to enjoy them, read our viral blog entitled, “8 Ways to Expose Yourself to Negative Ions,” here.(2)

Essentially, participating in the more yin energy oriented activities in nature such as walking meditation, sitting on a park bench and taking in the sights around you, sunbathing or enjoying the feeling of a breeze as it blows across your skin and body are simple exercises you can take pleasure in to reduce an adverse response to stress and support your liver chi.

Finally, by ensuring the routine of your Circadian Rhythm or Cycle—the natural, internal process that regulates the sleep–wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours—you will support the systems, fluids and organs of your body, including the liver and vital energy, to function at their best.

Shut down your computer and stop consulting your smartphone at least three hours before you go to sleep. Establish a routine of going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times every day. If you have trouble getting to sleep or sleeping through the night, it is possible your body is deficient in melatonin and you need to reestablish a healthy Circadian Rhythm.

…

Endnotes:

A syndrome is defined as a group of symptoms which consistently occur together.

…

Sources:

Clogstoun-Willmott, Jonathan Nigel. Qi Stagnation - Signs of Stress: Putting Chinese Medicine Into English this Book Explains Stress from Its Earliest Appearance Right Through to Severe. United Kingdom, Frame of Mind Publishing, 2013.

Six Breaths a Minute to Slow Aging and Its Cause

April 7, 2023 phyto5.us

In the progression of aging, many of our bodies’ systems become starved of nutrients and oxygen. As a result, blockages occur in blood vessels and nerve fibers in the form of plaque, inflammation and compression that frequently tend to lead to slowly failing tissues and organs. One ultra simple technique to deliver much required oxygen to all parts of the body is through our manner of breathing.

Most of us tend to breathe shallowly and quickly. This is a learned or conditioned behavior arising from repeated situations that present stress in our lives. This is very understandable. It has happened to almost all of us.

Many of us may be well acquainted with pranayama, the form of yoga devoted to the manner and practice of breath. Pranayama asanas (techniques) involve many forms of breathing configurations and methods and can be extremely valuable as a practice in contributing to our levels of youth, vitality and well-being.

At the same time, we can pare down to the very core essence of the breath. After all, there is great truth in simplicity!

Just the mere act of self-regulating by slowing our number of breaths per minute can create what Dr. Herbert Benson of Harvard Medical School has coined as the relaxation response.

“The Relaxation Response is a helpful way to turn off fight or flight response and bring the body back to pre-stress levels. Dr. Benson describes the Relaxation Response as a physical state of deep relaxation which engages the other part of our nervous system—the parasympathetic nervous system. ”

— Marilyn Mitchell, MD, Psychology Today

In this vein, authors Richard Brown and Patricia Gerbarg call this form of breathing “coherent breathing.” They say:

“‘Coherent breathing’ is a simple way to increase heart-rate variability [HRV] and balance the stress-response systems.”

Twelve to eighteen breaths per minute seems to be the average unregulated rate of breathing for most adults. Scientists have tested people at a whole range of possible breathing rates and concluded that the ideal breath rate is somewhere between three and a half and six breaths per minute. At this rate, the electrical rhythms of the heart, lungs and brain synchronize with each other coalescing in a kind of synergy that delivers expanded levels of vitality.

This self-regulated, slowed, deliberate manner of breathing is actually a concept known for many centuries by spiritual adepts. When Zen Buddhist monks, for example, enter into zazen (deep meditation), they breathe at six breaths per minute.

Very tall people will want to breathe on the low end of the scale–close to three and a half breaths per minute while children under ten years of age will optimally breathe at the rate of six to ten breaths per minute. An easy rule of thumb to accomplish six breaths a minute is to do five-second inhales and five-second exhales. Each five-second increment multiplied times six equals 60 seconds.

Dan Brulé, author of Just Breathe: Mastering Breathwork for Success in Life, Love, Business, and Beyond says,

“Studies show measurable benefits with just five minutes of paced breathing at a rate of six breaths per minute, three times per day. You can reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels (that’s the stress hormone!) by up to 20%.”

HeartMath Institute shares valuable information about a whole variety of self-regulating techniques for physical, mental and spiritual vitality including the “six breaths a minute” technique sharing that,

“… studies have shown increases in parasympathetic activity (vagal tone),(1) reductions in cortisol and increases in DHEA,(2) decreases in blood pressure and stress measures in hypertensive populations, reduced health-care costs and significant improvements in the functional capacity of patients with congestive heart failure.”

It is important to note that the DHEA increase mentioned in the previous paragraph is known to be responsible for the prevention of aging, improvement of sexual function, enhancement of athletic performance, and the treatment of osteoporosis.

HearthMath Institute counsels us to look at this kind of breathing as heart-focused even though we breath with our lungs and diaphragm. They say,

“Heart-focused breathing is about directing your attention to the heart area and breathing a little more deeply than normal. As you breathe in, imagine you are doing so through your heart, and, as you breathe out, imagine it is through your heart. (In the beginning, placing your hand over your heart as you breathe can help you in directing your focus to your heart.)”

“That breathing is essential for survival is common knowledge but proper breathing is a highly important key to mental and physical health. ”

— Vijai P. Sharma, Ph. D., Mind Publications

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(1) Vagal tone is an internal biological process referring to the activity of the vagus nerve (the tenth cranial nerve), which originates in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem. The vagus nerve serves as the key component of the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system, which homeostatically regulates the resting state of the majority of the body's internal organ systems that operate on a largely subconscious level, such as the heart, lungs, eyes, glands and digestive tract.

(2) DHEA (dihydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring weak androgenic steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands with benefits such as the prevention of aging, the improvement of sexual function, the enhancement of athletic performance, and the treatment of osteoporosis.

#####

Sources:

http://naturalsociety.com/breathing-better-for-anti-aging-disease-fighting-happiness/#ixzz4na4qj9pJ

Mitchell, Marilyn, MD. "Dr. Herbert Benson's Relaxation Response: Learn to Counteract the Physiological Effects of Stress." Psychology Today 29 Mar. 2013: Web. <https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/heart-and-soul-healing/201303/dr-herbert-benson-s-relaxation-response>.

Brown, Richard P., and Patricia L. Gerbarg. The Healing Power of the Breath: Simple Techniques to Reduce Stress and Anxiety, Enhance Concentration, and Balance Your Emotions. Boston, MA: Shambhala, 2012. Print.

McCraty, Rollin. Science of the Heart: Exploring the Role of the Heart in Human Performance. Boulder Creek (CA): HeartMath, 2001. Print.

The Reparative and Age-Mitigating Benefits of Marine Algae Skin Care Products

April 1, 2023 phyto5.us

Marine algae skin care products can be high value anti-age skincare solutions. This is because marine algae nourishes, detoxifies, protects and lends its life-extension properties to skin. It’s why PHYTO5 formulates various types of algae into a number of our natural skincare products.

PHYTO5’s Wood element Skin Toner is a good example of a high value marine algae skin care product. (Wood element skin Toner helps lighten age spots while energizing skin.)

The brown algae in Wood Skin Toner is Laminaria digitata extract. Brown algae are most often used for masks, creams, shampoos, lotions or toners. It’s an extract rich in trace minerals, proteins, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. This seaweed mineralizes, revitalizes and moisturizes skin. It also firms and tones skin working to prevent wrinkles and fine lines.

Another type of brown algae is Fucus vesiculosus, commonly known as bladderwrack, is formulated in Algoderm base Mask. The brown algae powder reduces wrinkle depth, corrects small skin imperfections, and improves skin’s texture. Fucus vesiculosus helps stabilize moisture in skin drawing it to the surface from deep within the skin's layers.

Fucus vesiculous is anti-age antioxidant rich and works to defend skin’s surface from harmful effects of airborne pollutants. The algae is mineral rich and composed of a full array of essential amino acids. This helps facilitate the movement of water through skin’s uppermost layers.

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.

Marine algae skin care products combat radiation and its damaging effects.

Skin is constantly exposed to ultraviolet radiation and other environmental aggressors and toxins. These stressors often lead to cell membrane and DNA damage. They deactivate enzymatic action while they encourage a host of acute and chronic disorders.

Bioactive compounds in marine algae protect skin from ultraviolet radiation.

“Microalgae are useful to protect the population from the damage caused by UVA, UVB, UVC, and UV-vis radiation with high risks such as outdoor works, high-grade burns, skin cancer, etc.”

— Rafael G. Araújo et al in Effects of UV and UV-vis Irradiation on the Production of Microalgae and Macroalgae

Marine algae offers properties for skin you might not get from your diet.

It’s challenging to consume a perfect diet replete with every nutrient the body needs. And so skin often suffers because it doesn’t have the raw materials it needs to remain beautiful, radiant and youthful.

“The information available on the protective effects of microalgae on human skin suggests that they can be implemented in the dermatological field as cosmetics and sunscreens since some of the main advantages are that they stimulate and improve blood circulation, revitalize and firm the skin, they are toning, they are rebalancing, detoxifying, and naturally moisturizing.”

— Rafael G. Araújo et al in Effects of UV and UV-vis Irradiation on the Production of Microalgae and Macroalgae

Marine algae skin care products at their core benefit from the amazing action of the single-celled bioforms of algae.

Algae and micro-algae are simple, nonflowering aquatic plants including seaweeds and many single-celled bioforms.

These organisms have had to develop strategies and mechanisms to defend themselves against the challenges of their environment. This natural and never-ending quest for survival has forced them to produce beneficial secondary metabolites.

Secondary metabolites in marine algae zero in on defeating a number of challenges including:

solar radiation
predators
having to compete with other plants for resources
the innate urge to establish themselves as well rooted non-displaceable residents of their environment.

In our blog on nutrigenomics, xenohormesis and longevity codes we get from plants, we discussed exactly these concepts. Plants like algae found in marine algae skin care products work to pass their survival and longevity codes on to you. You can consume them through the mouth or through the skin. This is the primary unhailed benefit of consuming algae and using it in marine algae skin care products.

Marine algae skin care products benefit from the algae’s very diverse composition and functions.

Algae brims with vitamins and minerals like magnesium and zinc. But highly potent antioxidative enzymes like beta-carotene(1) and lutein(2) give marine algae its power.

Though both are known for protecting eyesight, they boost algae’s ability to improve skin’s hydration and elasticity.

Marine algae offers many distinct phenolic antioxidative substances all possessing a wide scope of important physiological properties.

And because algae have been naturally exposed to oxidative stresses as mentioned above, they’ve adapted by developing several bioactive compounds extremely useful in marine algae skin care products.

Seaweeds contain many bioactives as recent scientific studies have proven. These biologically active compounds include:

polysaccharides(3)
proteins and peptides(4)
phenolic compounds and polyphenols(5) and
phlorotannins (6), pigments and amino acids.

Without adequate proteins, for example, aging is accelerated. It shows up in the face more quickly than anywhere else in the body.

But the amino acids in marine algae fill and maintain skin cell membranes helping achieve a more youthful appearance through these actions:

helping prevent rough skin texture
lessening wrinkles
toning up flaccidity of skin.

While algae offer calming properties to human health, they are hostile to:

substances that are allergenic
fatty plaque in arteries
microbes
blood clotting and
carcinogens.

Marine algae skin care products are composed of algae of several colors.

Not all marine algae are green.

Brown and a number of red algae, along with green and blue green algae, are all rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, sugars, lipids and other bioactive compounds. Brown algae demonstrate eight interconnected phenol rings (phlorotannins[6]) that trap electrons to search for and neutralize age-causing free radicals.

Japanese brown algae, Undaria pinnatifida, or wakame, is a principle ingredient in PHYTO5’s Face Exfoliation product.

This Japanese brown algae is rich in fiber, nutrients, minerals and vitamins. It boasts a calcium content ten times that of milk. It intensely nourishes, revitalizes and restores radiance to skin.

We formulate wakame algae in Ageless Perfection Cream. This Japanese brown algae and other ingredients work to reduce and eliminate brown spots associated with aging or sun damaged skin. Perfection Cream works to inhibit melanin production that causes new spots to form.

An active ingredient in wakame called coben decreases and regulates the production of melanin in skin leading to hyperpigmentation (dark spots).

The high mineral content of marine algae is incredibly important for skin.

Marina algae minerals help create an epidermal barrier that protects skin from environmental aggressions.

They’re also instrumental in preventing and soothing inflammation of the skin. This is important for people who suffer from psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hyperpigmentation, acne, wrinkles and even hair loss.

Marine algae also contain starch, vitamin B, iron, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper and calcium. All provides important skin firming and moisturizing benefits.

Marine algae skin care products are all around skin protective and restorative.

Marine algae skin care products provide a strengthening effect for skin making it more resistant to abrasions.

Some algae like aphanizomenon flos aquae or spirulina, when applied directly to skin as a paste constituted with a bit of water, hasten skin healing. Use it for rashes and bug bite reactions.

Marine algae skin care products provide a myriad of skin benefits:

anti-age
skin texture conditioning
hydration

nourishment
detoxification
mineral replenishment(7)
reduction of puffiness
protection against solar radiation
pore refining
lessening of fine lines
blemish prevention
skin damage repair
collagen repair
treatment of seborrhea
anti-inflammatory action
hair conditioning.

Marine algae skin care products generously share the benefits of algae without discrimination to any skin type. This makes marine algae skin care products perfect for natural and sustainable skin treatment aiming to truly nourish skin and mitigate the effects of aging.

…

Endnotes:

(1) Beta-carotene is a plant pigment that is an isomer of carotene, important in the diet as a precursor of vitamin A. (An isomer is each of two or more compounds with the same formula but a different arrangement of atoms in the molecule and different properties.)

(2) Known as the “eye vitamin,” the term lutein comes from the Latin luteus meaning yellow, lutein is a xanthophyll (an oxygen containing yellow carotenoid plant) and one of 600 known naturally occurring carotenoids (any of a class of mainly yellow, orange, or red fat-soluble pigments, including carotene, which give color to plant parts such as ripe tomatoes and autumn leaves). Lutein is synthesized only by plants, and like other xanthophylls is found in high quantities in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and yellow carrots.

(3) Polysaccharides are carbohydrate molecules with the ability to mimic the natural carbohydrate fraction found in the top layer of skin. They replenish skin and help skin to naturally hydrate and retain water. They are also vital for skin repair and skin renewal.

(4) Peptides work to rebuild and repair damaged cells and signal skin to produce collagen thereby slowing the aging process.

(5) “Phenolic compounds constitute a group of secondary metabolites which have important functions in plants. Besides the beneficial effects on the plant host, phenolic metabolites (polyphenols) exhibit a series of biological properties that influence the human in a health-promoting manner. Evidence suggests that people can benefit from plant phenolics obtained either by the diet or through skin application, because they can alleviate symptoms and inhibit the development of various skin disorders. Due to their natural origin and low toxicity, phenolic compounds are a promising tool in eliminating the causes and effects of skin aging, skin diseases, and skin damage, including wounds and burns.” —Magdalena Działo et al in The Potential of Plant Phenolics in Prevention and Therapy of Skin Disorders
(6) “Research on seaweeds provides a continual discovery of natural bioactive compounds. The review presents new information on studies of the potential and specific antiviral action of phlorotannin and their derivatives from marine brown algae. Phlorotannin is a polyphenolic derivative and a secondary metabolite from marine brown algae which exhibits a high quality of biological properties. Phlorotannin has a variety of biological activities that include antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, anti-diabetic, anti-allergic, antibacterial, antihypertensive and immune modulating activities. These phlorotannin properties were revealed by various biochemical and cell-based assays in vitro. This distinctive polyphenol from the marine brown algae may be a potential pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compound.” —V. Maheswari et al in Phlorotannin and its Derivatives, a Potential Antiviral Molecule from Brown Seaweeds, an Overview

(7) Though all algae are mineral rich, the composition of minerals depends upon the mineral composition of the seabed source from which the algae is harvested.

#####

Sources:

Araújo, Rafael G et al. “Effects of UV and UV-vis Irradiation on the Production of Microalgae and Macroalgae: New Alternatives to Produce Photobioprotectors and Biomedical Compounds.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 27,16 5334. 22 Aug. 2022, doi:10.3390/molecules27165334

Jorge Miguel, Goncalo Paxe. Natural Skin Care Tips. Germany, epubli, 2020.

Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology. United Kingdom, CRC Press, 2014.

Balasundram, N., Sundry, K., and Samman, S. (2006) Phenolic compounds in plants and agroindustrial by-products: Antioxidant activity, occurrence, and potential uses. Food Chemistry, 99, 191-203. Beauchamp, C., and Fridovich, I. (1971).

Microalgae Biotechnology for Food, Health and High Value Products. Germany, Springer Nature Singapore, 2020.

Działo M, Mierziak J, Korzun U, Preisner M, Szopa J, Kulma A. The Potential of Plant Phenolics in Prevention and Therapy of Skin Disorders. Int J Mol Sci. 2016 Feb 18;17(2):160. doi: 10.3390/ijms17020160. PMID: 26901191; PMCID: PMC4783894.

Algae Materials: Applications Benefitting Health. United States, Elsevier Science, 2023.

The Seven Layers of the Aura, Your Spirit: Key to Consciousness and Knowi

February 26, 2023 phyto5.us

An approximation of a multi-colored aura of a woman

By virtue of our existing and without exception, every thing and everyone has a field or corona of light surrounding it called the aura. The term aura is loosely bantered about by many in everyday conversation and with little real understanding, but those who stop to truly learn what the aura is and does may become awestruck for the aura is key to consciousness and knowing.

This corona of electromagnetic light composed of many layers (many say seven layers of the aura) holds together the matter that makes up your physical body as well as the matter that holds together every single particum of creation—animate and inanimate.

Each thing or being constantly emanates frequency back into the field of consciousness:

1) its own aware consciousness of being and,
2) its awareness of everything else around it.

This field or flow of consciousness is what many call the River of Knowledge, the mind of God, or divine Mind. This is where all things are known—where the answer exists to every question you could ever ask. This is omniscience.

Every living being, plant, rock, star, planet, even every particle of dust emanates the thought of its state of being back into the mind of God—back into its Source. And this is how God, Source, divine Mind knows all.

In a similar way, we have the ability to know all there is to know or all that we would want to know.

The aura is the Spirit of your being and it connects directly to Source, that flow of consciousness where all things are known. Yet we hardly tap into this knowledge, mostly because we have understood neither the aura or how our egotistical mind operates.

In the layers of the aura closest to the body is a powerful electromagnetic field composed of positive and negative electrum, but beyond this field there is no division of positive and negative. There is only one pure energy field of light. This is the part of the aura that allows all thought from the River of Knowledge to flow through your powerful auric field.

The feeling or emotion derived from every thought is recorded in your soul and then is placed into your aura as an expectancy.

This expectancy then activates your auric field to draw to you situations, events, objects, people that will create the same feelings to be experienced in your body and all as the result of all of your thoughts.

The purpose of this never-ending cycle is the acquisition of wisdom and the furtherance of our personal and collective evolution.

Idealistically, we have the potential to know all there is to know, but the aura, our Spirit, draws thought to us depending on what we think.

Through our auric fields, we absorb thought from the River of Knowledge. We feed this into our soul. This causes us to feel emotion. That emotion feeds and expands our entire being. And then we emanate the awareness of our expansion as frequency back out into the river of consciousness. And then someone else is able to pick up and create from the frequency we have sent out through the aura into the greater field—an exquisite demonstration of the connectedness of all creation.

Why, if we are receiving unlimited thought constantly through all the layers of the aura, are we not all-knowing then? Again, the aura, our Spirit, draws thought to us depending on what we think and depending on how open our fields are to expansion.

When thought comes through the aura, the thought we have attracted to us comes through in an unlimited fashion for the aura in its divine essence does not judge, categorize, define or limit it in any way. But these units of thought then travel to the upper left hemisphere of the cerebrum, the seat of the intellect and function of reasoning. This is where the egotistical logical mind is expressed and this part of the mind will refuse to accept any thought that doesn’t fit within its understanding of security and which does not perpetuate survival.

This part of the brain, the frontal lobe, is the limited fear-based mind which refuses to allow all thoughts constantly flowing in through the aura to be fully received and embraced within the body and mind of the person.

If we desire to receive more divine unlimited thought, we must expand our auric fields and awareness through intention and more thought that invites expansion.

We have some knowledge of the seven layers of the aura, each layer surrounding the body and greater than the one preceding it. Yet if existence is infinite and very many of us believe it is, and if the human person is a microcosmic expression of existence, and it is easy to see that this is true through the myriad examples of the natural universe, then these layers of the aura truly extend from the density of electricity closest to the body out into the infiniteness of thought.

Each layer of the aura could be equated with one of seven fundamental consciousnesses: 1) reproduction and survival, 2) fear and pain, 3) power, 4) felt love, 5) expressed love, 6) ‘God seen in all life,’ and 7) Oneness.

The first physical etheric layer closest to the body could be associated with the consciousness of reproduction and survival. It relates to the root or muladhara chakra.

The next layer out, the emotional layer, may be associated with fear and pain. It aligns with the sacral or svadishtana chakra.

Still further out is the mental layer which corresponds to power. It is relative to the solar plexus chakra where our ‘second brain’ resides. This chakra is also known as the manipura chakra.

Next is the astral layer connected to the heart or anahata chakra and this relates to ‘felt love.’

The etheric template layer connected to the throat or visshudha chakra corresponds to ‘expressed love.’

The sixth layer of the aura aligns with ‘God seen in all life’ as it aligns with the third eye chakra also known as the ajna chakra.

And the seventh layer of the aura, the ketheric layer (from ‘kether,’ named for the topmost sephirot or infinite emanation of the Kabbalah Tree of Life translated as ‘royal crown’) is realized Oneness. This chakra is the crown seal or sahasrara chakra.

Looking at these associations, it is easy to see where we sit in terms of focused awareness. With intention and even a very slight shift in the way we think, we can begin to expand the auric field and allow more beneficial, uplifting and creative thought to waft through the seven layers of the aura to permeate our consciousness.

Wherever you have placed and focused your consciousness, that is the reality (your heaven or hell) you will find yourself living in for the electromagnetic field of your aura, the Spirit of your being, will always and only draw you to the vibration of that sphere of consciousness.

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Earth Element Symbolism

January 17, 2023 phyto5.us

An earthen tile artwork of the yin/yang symbol in earthy colors of gold, ochre, dark brown and black

Traditional Chinese medicine’s (TCM’s) season of the Earth element is an 18-day period of transition between each of the four major energetic seasons. Each of the five elements is rich with indigenous symbology and expression. Historic Earth element symbolism is rich with teaching metaphors that also give clues for health and a harmonious Earth lifestyle.

“… symbols have come to be placed within conscious, traditional and dogmatic systems, but their inner life still pulses beneath this rationalized order, even becoming audible from time to time.”

— J. C. Cirlot in Dictionary of Symbols

The Earth element not only refers to the actual soil but the character, dynamic state, and elemental force of the element.

We commonly see Earth element symbolism as feminine. Earth represents infinite creativity, the great mother, fertility, giver of nourishment, and longevity.

In a more general sense, when we juxtapose Earth with the spiritual heavens, Earth element symbolism represents matter.

In TCM, Earth element symbolism depicts the balance of yin and yang. As complementary equals, yin and yang relate to each other to create a dynamic balance and a harmonious whole.

“…there can be no sharp distinctions between spirit/nature, subject/object, good/evil, and victory/defeat. Each exists only because of its opposite… yin and yang are direct opposites interacting together in harmony. The weakness in one is overshadowed by the strength in the other. Yet, in weakness resides strength waiting to be used.”

— Joseph A. Bailey, II, M.D.

Enjoy balance of the Earth skin condition: toxic skin with acne, blemishes and enlarged pores.

PHYTO5’s quantum energetic Earth line of skincare will help bring this condition to balance as it balances your emotional state too.

Earth type personalities sometimes embrace the Mother-Provider archetype too exuberantly. Out-of-balance Earth types take care of others but often to their own detriment. The quantum energetic Earth line of skincare will help you balance this emotion if you feel stuck and in overwhelm because of over-careteaking.

We find Earth element symbolism well articulated in landscape and building forms.

TCM associates the flat shape to the element of Earth. Earth mountains are flat topped mountains.

Jura flat topped mountains of Switzerland

This particular Earth element symbolism we see evidenced in the Jura Mountains in France and Switzerland near to PHYTO5’s Swiss factory.

Another example is the twin peaked Mount Asgard(1) on the Cumberland Peninsula of Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada.

We see Earth element symbolism in buildings, flat rooves and square or oblong structures like the Viking longhouses of antiquity.

Earth element symbolism manifests as a bridge or transition.

TCM observes Earth element symbolism as a transition aspect linking one season to the next as a kind of hyphen or dash punctuation mark.

Earth element symbolism points to yin and yang, famine and masculine aspects.

The Earth element embodies intrinsically yin energy. This means Earth presents primarily as a feminine energy element.

But each of the five elements express both yin and yang energy—one being more predominant.

When Earth expresses as yang masculine energy, Earth element symbolism appears as a hill and Earth’s color is yellow.

Earth element symbolism shows up in human characteristics.

Many people enjoy active yang energy cheery bright sunlight yellow. The Earth element symbolism displays in them as intellectualism, faith, and goodness.

Gold or ochre exhibits Earth element symbolism in yin energy expression. The valley illustrates Earth’s yin aspect.

We see yin aspect Earth element symbolism in people inclined to ochre or gold. They live more calm, passive, conservative, dependable, practical and grounded.

TCM tells us Earth’s location is center and center always stabilizes energy and balances yin and yang.

In the home, we can utilize Earth element symbolism to nurture ourselves and family.

The Earth room of the home is the heart of the home where nourishment occurs—the dining room.

Even before we see Earth element symbolism in the dining room, we see it in the fields. Earth’s grain is rice. It ripens in the yellow-ochre Earth and stabilizes the body with nourishment.

Earth element symbolism reveals itself as sign of stability and grounding.

AI generated image of Huang Di, Emperor of China, 2500 b.c.

Earth element symbolism runs through ancient Chinese history.

During the reign of the legendary Chinese king Huang Di(2)—the Yellow Emperor—the color yellow found enormous popularity.

The epitome of Earth element symbolism, they named Huang Di the Yellow Emperor. The people gave Huang Di this honorific because he and his army honored the value of two things:

the Yellow Earth—the symbol of farming;
and the Yellow River of their home, the central land they called China.

We see Earth element symbolism in ancient Chinese lore as the Yellow Dragon.

In addition to dragon, the Earth element governs rat and ox signs of the Chinese zodiac.

This same ancient Chinese lore depicts Earth element symbolism in the Yellow Earth Tiger (solar in color). Yellow Earth Tiger inhabits the Earth and reigns supreme over all the other element tigers: Wood, Fire, Metal and Water.

Very direct Earth element symbolism associates Yellow Earth Tiger with the heart of China. The center of the zodiac houses Yellow Earth Tiger just as the Yellow Emperor was situated in the heart of China, the center of the compass in the Chinese cosmos.

An AI generated image of five yellow squares nested within each other

Earth element symbolism runs through much other ancient history too.

In Indian mythology, the elephant stands for Earth element symbolism.

We observe the square or cube dominant in Earth element symbolism. It’s the great cosmic symbol for Earth representing the cradle of humanity, home, and a place of origin.

The square or cube in Earth element symbolism hints at the end of material life while it simultaneously maintains life.

Earth embodies earthly progeny. It offers a sense of eternity.

In Tibetan buddhism, we see Earth element symbolism represented by a yellow square or a tiered yellow cube (four or five squares nested within each other).

The Roman standard or signa romanum carried the symbol of the Earth element represented by a cube. It was a banner that identified a Roman unit or cavalry.

In Greek mythology, the anvil embodies Earth element symbolism. The anvil reminds us of the passive feminine principle (as opposed to the hammer that represents the fruitful making of things.)

In Vajrayana buddhism(3), the swastika expresses Earth element symbolism and Earth’s indestructible stability.

The Renaissance was fond of personifying the elements as gods from antiquity.

An AI generated statue of the ancient Mother Goddess Cybele

The great nature goddess Cybele of ancient Phrygia in Asia Minor stands as epitome of Earth element symbolism. She was called Mater Kubileya (Mountain Mother) and was given the latin name Magna Mater meaning Great Mother. Cybele was partially assimilated to aspects of the Earth goddess Gaia and to the harvest Mother goddess Demeter.

For South American Indians the spear has historically represented the Earth element.

In TCM, various types of catastrophes associate with an element. Earth element symbolism and the earthquake equate with each other in TCM.

We’ve derived the name Adam, the name used to personify primordial man, from the Hebrew adama meaning Earth.

According to Gershom G. Scholem in On the Kabbalah and Its Symbolism, we conceive Adam as a “vast representation of the power of the universe” on Earth concentrated in humankind.

Observe Earth element symbolism in geometry and numerology.

he quaternary in Earth element symbolism—a thing consisting of four parts and concept of the number four— corresponds to Earth and the material pattern of life. The quaternary also reveals feminine energy, matter created from the thought or idea, and reason.

“The ternary is the number pertaining to the idea; the quaternary is the number connected with the realization of the idea.”

— Plato

Earth element symbolism aligns with the number eight—a double-four representing and bringing balance. This symbolic numerology speaks that what we sow, we also reap.

For further reading on aspects of the Earth element, be sure to read our article on the Earth Type personality: The Earth Type Personality According to Traditional Chinese Medicine: Understanding Your Archetype for Harmony and Balance.

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Endnotes:

Asgard: a god of Norse mythology
Huang Di is the emperor that is said to be the ancestor of all Han Chinese people; he ruled from 2697 BC to 2598 BC, approx.
Vajrayana buddhism is a form of esoteric buddhism with vajrayana being one of three vehicles to enlightenment (the other two are Sravakayana and Mahayana).

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Sources:

The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols. United Kingdom, Serindia, 2003.

Becker, Udo. The Continuum Encyclopedia of Symbols. United Kingdom, Continuum, 2000.

Cirlot, J. C. Dictionary of Symbols. United Kingdom, Taylor & Francis, 2006.

Scholem, Gershom. On the Kabbalah and Its Symbolism. United Kingdom, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 1996.

Levitt, Susan. Taoist Feng Shui: The Ancient Roots of the Chinese Art of Placement. United States, Inner Traditions/Bear, 1999.

Chinese New Year 2023: Great Fortune Year of the Black Water Rabbi

January 3, 2023 phyto5.us

A black rabbit inside a Chinese New Year red, gold and black graphic

Chinese New Year 2023 falls on January 22. Not only are new years in Chinese astrology represented by one of twelve animals, the five elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water are also incorporated as the zodiac moves through a different element each year. This year is not only the Year of the Rabbit, it’s the Year of the Black Water Rabbit and this is because the yin Water element is associated with the color black.

Black Rabbit is a very specially gifted and creative Rabbit who has not been seen since 1963, so this year 2023 promises to be a year of great fortune.

Black Water Rabbit of 1963
1963 was a year in which Water energy flowed abundantly, especially enhancing communications of all sorts. Pop culture truly created roots with television shows like The Beverley Hillbillies, The Lucy Show and the Dick Van Dyke Show while films like The Pink Panther and The Birds became the rage.

The year had begun with the historic wintry “Big Freeze” followed by March’s inevitable thaw and gushes of water. And then in October that year, rain relentlessly poured on Northern Italy’s Dolomite Mountains until the ground was so waterlogged the earth could absorb no more. On the night of October 9, a landslide ensued that pushed half a hillside into the recently completed Vajont Dam, in turn creating a 300-foot high wave wiping out the town of Longarone in minutes and taking 2,500 lives that night.

On the political front, it was the year of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, which astrologers believe was actually initiated during the preceding aggressive Tiger year. Martin Luther King made his “I Have a Dream” speech and the Beatles were zooming to their zenith (soon to appear early the next year on the Ed Sullivan show in the states which virtually sealed their rise to incredible fame). There was civil and violent unrest which is never Rabbit’s way but Rabbit isn’t a pushover either and will allow these if necessary for change.

Welcome 2023

“ After the chaos and tumult of the departing Year of the [Black Water] Tiger, Water Rabbit energy promises to restore peace and harmony and shower the world with sparkling opportunities. But will you benefit from the Rabbit’s generosity?”

— Linda Dearsley in "2023: Thrive in the Year of the Rabbit"

The main source of energy in the Chinese calendar for 2023 is the Water element in its yin form indicating that 2023 will be a more restful time for contemplating our values and goals in life. In 2023, the Water Rabbit energy helps us bring our major life’s goals to life. 2023 also provides fertile timing to become a highly paid specialist, so apply yourself and you just may become significantly more abundant than you already are.

2023 is also the year for honing our skills of perception, intuition, and forging the way of peace—both inner and outer. Representative of youth and optimism, the Water Rabbit will be important on the political front as diplomacy, good negotiation skills and new more creative leaders step up to the plate. While previous enemies probably won’t get cozy with each other, they may at least begin to talk this year. Political leaders should know that Black Water Rabbit’s energy is no friend to indiscretions, especially the sexual ones.

For the sincere of heart, Rabbit, no matter its color or element, represents good fortune both materially and in relationships. (Remember the rabbit’s foot people used to carry in their pockets for good luck?) Rabbit may not be the most robust animal, but its charm and speed are the qualities that attract money, fertility, lovers and success. These gifts are even more acutely present when Rabbit is combined with the Water element.

Rabbit prefers quality over quantity and views home as sanctuary so his energy may influence many this year to choose natural, classic, youthful and often upcycled fashion for home and clothing. Creatives like interior decorators, gardeners and upholsterers just may have an incredibly busy year.

Communications as another metaphor for Water will be big in 2023 as people will thrive for the sociability they missed the previous two years. People-in-the-flesh festivals, rallies and outdoor markets will be popular as online meetings forced by the previous two years diminish. And as it happened in 1963, communication through entertainment will blossom with unparalleled innovations and a birth of new stars in every field. In fact, the urge to communicate will be unstoppable this year since Water doesn’t return until the Water Rat of 2032.

Tiger years like last year are all about activating change, highlighting injustices, and breaking down barriers and because Tiger is who he is, he doesn’t tred lightly. He powers through. So after Black Water Tiger’s good long year of constant, sometimes shocking change but often change that leads to necessary changes, Black Water Rabbit’s time of tranquility is just what we need—a time to contemplate, adjust our creative endeavors and enjoy ourselves along the way.

Soft pawed Rabbit now hops in to counterbalance the outrageous Year of the Tiger that 2022 was as restful antidote. It’s time for Black Rabbit’s balancing sweet and happy fluffiness.

Why do we have two years of Water back-to-back?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, years are paired and each of the two years in a pair are ruled by the same element. This pairing occurs in order to create balance.

First the element sweeps in, in its strongest most potent form in year one and in the following year two, it works its way out in a quieter softer manner. Rabbit won’t undo all of Tiger’s work though. Rabbit modifies and refines, smoothes and repairs where necessary which ends up making a lot of Tiger’s collateral damage acceptable, if not, welcome.

So last year, Black Water Tiger brought us a number of flood events you may even have forgotten. Interestingly, most of them were 500- or 1000-year rain or flood events. These were events like the Pakistani floods between June and October 2022 which killed 1,739 people, and caused 3.2 trillion rupees worth of damage and 3.3 trillion of economic losses.

In the states, Yellowstone National Park endured a 500-year flood event costing more than one billion in damages. So, too, did Jackson, Mississippi and Dallas, Texas incur billions in damages for 1000-year flood events, not to mention Hurricane Ian that caused 30 to 60 billion in damages killing many people.

According to Taoist astrologers, we’re quite done with extremes like these—at least for the time being. Now Black Water Rabbit brings us water in the most pleasant of forms: soft Spring and Summer rains, gentle snows and Water’s more metaphorical flow materialized as financial wealth. Some economists may predict financial stresses for 2023, but this is not Black Water Rabbit’s way and these economists may very well be proven wrong.

Moreover, “… the Black Rabbit of 2023 is aiming to sprinkle the healing energies of Water across the whole year.” —Linda Dearsley in 2023: Thrive in the Year of the Rabbit

The key is not to be a nervous scared bunny or you might shoo Black Water Rabbit’s good fortune away. Instead, as master crafter of your life, remember that you choose how you’ll respond to this Rabbit year. Don’t leave it all up to Rabbit but instead remember that it’s the choices you make that will determine your 2023.

Dearsley advises everyone:

“Play it clever and you can charm shy Rabbit into snuggling close all year, showering you with bunny blessings. Get it wrong, and Rabbit will turn timid and hop away, taking all the goodies with him.”

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Endnotes:

–Dearsley, Linda. 2023: Thrive in the Year of the Rabbit. Bennion Kearney Limited. 2022. Print.

–Levitt, Susan, and Jean Tang. Taoist Astrology: A Handbook of the Authentic Chinese Tradition. p. 171. Rochester, VT: Destiny, 1997. Print.

The Winter Solstice Spiritual Meaning Across Time and Cultures

December 8, 2022 phyto5.us

The Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, is an annual solar event taking place between December 20 and 23. On this day the sun reaches its waning limit. By the next day, daytime hours increase once again. If you’re tuned in even a little, you can’t help but feel there’s a profound Winter Solstice spiritual meaning you can apply in your everyday life.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning is evident throughout history and cultures.

Cultures have felt the depths of the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning for aeons. They all noticed darkness was falling earlier than at any other time of year. And the sun was shining at its lowest point in the sky.

They identified the Winter Solstice as moment of the sun’s death and inevitable rebirth. And they marked the Winter Solstice the formal beginning of the Winter season.

But the ancient Chinese and thus traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) placed the Winter Solstice smack in the middle of one of TCM’s five seasons—energetic Winter and the Water element. Like other cultures, the ancient Chinese viewed and TCM still does view Winter as an introspective hibernating time of year.

No matter the culture all have found Winter a time of deep inward searching giving dimension to the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning. The Winter Solstice signified the turning point of time and moment of new beginnings. The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning became metaphoric to life. It offered the people clues for harmonious cyclic living.

In ancient Egypt, the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning related to Ra, the sun god. The Egyptians saw it as the return of Ra.

The Egyptians had noticed changes in the position of the sun in the sky. This made them believe the sun’s warmth and strength might not return. And they feared they might not be able to grow food or sustain their animals.

So in keeping with the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning the people so deeply felt, they created a ritual and ceremony period. This was a time of camaraderie, goodwill, forgiveness and love so the sun would continue to be reborn. They celebrated the Winter Solstice to thank Ra for warming the land and blessing the people with abundant crops.

Almost nowhere else is the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning more dramatically outpictured than at Stonehenge in Southern England. People some 2500 years ago erected stones to frame the setting sun on the Winter Solstice. So vital to their spirituality was the sun they positioned the stones to allow the last rays of sunlight to gleam through a space between the stones.

The ancient Romans were no strangers to the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning either. They held a special week long Winter Solstice celebration to honor the god Saturnalia. The Romans intended their ceremonies and rituals to gracefully poise nature as it stepped over the border of the year.

The Saturnalia Winter Solstice festival revolved around sacrifice, gift-giving and feasting. In the spirit of the deepest Winter Solstice spiritual meaning—equality of all souls (at least temporarily)—Masters served their servants and citizens treated criminals with honor and respect.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning influences the Christmas celebration.

In the Romans’ celebratory rituals, we see the seeds of our Christmas celebrations today. The Romans all gave each other presents. Roman businessmen gifted their customers with their wares and parents gave their children clay or wax dolls. They hid coins and tiny gifts in pudding and brought evergreen trees into the home.

Our Christmas tree today was the Saturnalia evergreen back then.

We also see evidence of the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning in their Yule, Yuletide or Yulefest.

The Romans’ back then and our current burning of the yule log, decorating the evergreen tree and English wassailing(1) dates all the way back to the ancient Norse people. They called this time the festival of Jul (prononouced just as we say ‘Yule’).

Their lives revolved around the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning they held at heart.

Anonymous broadside in the public domain of the words of the carol "The Holly and the Ivy", published by H. Wadsworth, Birmingham, 1814-1818. Source here.

Original celebrations of Yule link also to the Wild Hunt, the god Odin, and the pagan Anglo-Saxon Mothers’ Night(2).

Eventually, the Christian church sought to co-opt the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning for itself. They absorbed and christianized pagan customs. Now the festival of yule, which happened on the Winter Solstice, would mark the start of the famous Twelve Days of Christmas.

The Christmas carol, The Holly and the Ivy, derives from pre-Christian times when the Lord and Lady of the Greenwood were honored by the hanging of green garlands from the ridge poles of houses.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning naturally reverberates from the intense solar event it is.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning emits a profound, even life-changing energy. It extends to you the very real potential to activate and heighten your spiritual senses if you’ll allow it.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning equates to a supreme hush moment in time. It calls on all of us to pause, rest and restore ourselves in preparation for more lively seasons ahead.

Be acutely aware of when the Winer Solstice is about to occur and pay close attention to slight or potent shifts in your psyche. When you do you get the very most out of the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning.

Amplify or awaken your spiritual senses in meditation on that day and on the days just before and after. Open your being to the spiritual world of light and love.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning follows nature’s cues.

In this darkest period of the year around the Winter Solstice, our days are short and darkness falls early in the day. Nature’s inviting you to slow down.

Visit with nature. Take in the fragrance of pine needles or the glow of the dark night Winter moons.

Your own soul will respond in kind, asking you to put down what you’re doing, connect with loved ones and maybe enjoy a cup of warm tea together. Perhaps, in the spirit of the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning, choose to listen rather than speak.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reflects in the entire Winter season.

TCM always tells us to take our cues from nature so we can know how to live in harmony with any season. The same kind of winding down we feel on and around the Winter Solstice are the same we feel throughout TCM’s energetic Winter and the Water element.

During the dark of Winter, seeds rest in suspended animation under the ground. Animals hibernate. Flora and fauna gather strength for the coming season of energetic Spring and renewal and we should, too.

Growth—whether it’s physical, mental, emotional or spiritual—actually happens in the times when we draw inward and rest.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reminds us we need to open to change and accept it.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning is all about change and new beginnings. As in Buddhism where nothing is permanent the Winter Solstice calls on us to embrace life in flux and change.

To amplify the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning for you make it a point to meditate on that day and night. Intend to be well prepared for coming changes. Invite in the energy of the Winter Solstice. It will assist you to accept and flow with inevitable upcoming changes in a resilient way.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning brings hope. It signifies your sorrows will indeed return to joy. Your limitations can be cancelled out by abundance one day soon. And no negative thing in your life will remain that way forever.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning begs us to let go of strict dogmas and rigid ways of being.

Understanding this world, the swirl of incessant information, and peoples’ opinions and agendas is not an all black or all white thing. It would be easy if it were all mapped out for us but that just isn’t life. If everything were neat and tidy, you wouldn’t ever have to call on your own inner voice to discern if something is true or not. You’d be more automaton than human.

TCM tells us that kidney is the yin energy organ of the Water element active during the Winter Solstice. Kidney provides us with the energy we need to be wise and in spiritual faith.

In our blog, “Energetic Winter and Transcending the Emotion of Fear: The Kidneys are the Root of Life, Regeneration and Vitality,” we wrote:

The Winter Solstice energy and the energy of the Water element call on you to be a Sage. The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning embraces wisdom, introspection and flow. Like the flow of water, it calls on you to be less rigid in thinking and open to certain truths you perhaps couldn’t embrace before.

Kidney is our spirit storehouse. It holds a reservoir of energy we can tap into for self-assurance, trust, and faith in surviving our challenges in life.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning derives from a pivotal solar event that reinforces the vitality and happiness we enjoy from cyclical living.

In our blog, “Cyclical Living Is the Key to a Vitality Filled Life and Our Producing the Frequency of Love,” we write:

“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.”

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning and the solar event itself help us see that cycles and seasons are important in life. The Solstice is a day that opens the door to a proving period of patience.

TCM teaches us all about the passage of cycles. It shows us how to live in harmony with this celebration day and season. It will help you remain patient with life and live in the present.

Living during the season of energetic Winter and the Water element is like living in the darkness of the womb. You must wait patiently to emerge into the light. But until then you remain quiet in the dark and allow the womb to nurture you increasing the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning deep within you.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning endures throughout the entire Winter season.

The stillness, hush and energy of Winter have all the energetic ingredients we need to feel supported in our quest to know ourselves.

These energetic and spiritual ingredients of Winter and the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning encourage you to rest and dream. Then you’re strengthened to reach the sublime heights of spirituality.

Still, this is almost a feat for many. We’re so accustomed to running all the time. And even when we’re not running, many of us may sit quietly but artificially stimulated by smartphones while we sit motionless.

This isn’t true rest and inward journeying. And it doesn’t increase our spiritual foundation either.

When you learn to live in harmony with the five element seasons according to TCM you can remain emotionally stable. You come to understand the importance of each season and solar event. It leads you to embrace the attributes each has to offer.

This makes life more purposeful and exciting.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning radiates the faith and trust intrinsic to TCM’s Water element of Winter.

Take the example of the sun at the time of the Winter Solstice to heart. It always returns to create the daylight. Know now that your desires will indeed manifest.

“The Holiday of the Winter Solstice celebrates the presence of Spirit and the power of faith and hope that our visions of the future will come into manifestation.”

— Ruth Barret, mysticmamma.com

May your Winter Solstice day and night be filled with magic, awareness and deep insights. And may you resonate with this solar event and the Winter Solstice spiritual meaning for vitality and abundance on all levels of your life.

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Endnotes:

(1) Wassailing: a) drinking plentiful amounts of alcohol and enjoying self with others in a noisy, lively way; b) going from house to house at Christmastime singing carols.

(2) Mōdraniht or Modranicht (pronounced [ˈmoːdrɑniçt]; Old English for "Night of the Mothers" was an event held at what is now Christmas Eve by the Anglo-Saxon pagans.

Energetic Winter and Transcending the Emotion of Fear: The Kidneys are the Root of Life, Regeneration and Vitalit

December 4, 2022 phyto5.us

The energetic Winter season is associated with the element of Water according to traditional Chinese medicine, and Water’s associated organs are the yin kidneys and the yang bladder.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are where our core vital energy is located so when kidney is strong and in balance, we promote regeneration of the body, youth, vibrancy and vitality. We could say that the kidneys contain our blueprint for health. They are considered to be the body’s most important receptacle of essential energy, known in traditional Chinese medicine as the “Root of Life.” The kidneys are also the root of all yin and yang energy in the body.

Consider how important the kidneys’ function is by the following:

They filter waste metabolites from the blood.
They control sexual and reproductive functions.
With the large intestine, they control the balance of fluids in the body.
They regulate the pH balance (acidity/alkalinity) of the body by either retaining or filtering out certain minerals.
They control the growth and development of the skeletal system and nourish the bone marrow.

Kidney chi is approximate terminology for the functional combination of kidney energy. It is almost never in excess but it is frequently deficient.

A good lifestyle helps ensure good kidney health.

Simply do all the things you would think are good for you and refrain from the things you know are not:

Keep hydrated.
Eat healthily, especially fresh organic fruits and vegetables; aside from their nutritional content, they tend to have a high water content beneficial for the kidneys and entire body.
Get an appropriate amount of exercise that is enjoyable to you.
Get friendly flora into your intestinal system by eating naturally fermented foods.
Drink green juices and smoothies.
Detox in epsom salt baths to help detoxify the kidneys.
Moderate your use of over-the-counter drugs.
Refrain from smoking.
Don’t overdo sugar, salt and fat.
Moderate your alcohol consumption.

Physical stressors compromise the Water energy and lead to imbalance. This can then exacerbate the fears and mistrust that lie under the calm waters of the well adapted Water Type person. Do not physically overextend yourself through excess of exercise, sleep, sports, or work.

Causes of kidney deficiency may include:

overwork over a long period of time
too much brain work
a long vitality-draining illness
overindulgence in sexual activity
acute fever
prolonged hemorrhage
overconsumption of drugs

“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. This is a time when yin dominates yang. Therefore one should refrain from overusing the yang energy. 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 practice the result will be injury to the kidney energy…”

— The Neijing Suwen

The Spirit Quality of Water
Water’s spirit quality is known in traditional Chinese medicine as zhi. It may be expressed as the mental abilities of will and intent including the concepts of will power, ambition, and self-actualization.

Zhi, the energy of will, purpose and destiny, is the will we tap into in order to survive ordeals, persevere through challenges and overcome obstacles. With zhi we utilize our will to overcome our greatest fears, to transform ourselves and to create healing. It assists us to persist in life against all odds.

The Water element is considered the root of our constitutional energy. It correlates with having adequate energetic reserves bringing us the potency to overcome obstacles. Strength, determination and persistence arise and thrive in the Water element.

The Water element requires quiet and stillness to flourish. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidney energy is considered the most interior and yin with the greatest power and potential for change. Tapping into that energy gives the courage to try, even when the outcome is unknowable.

Emotions of the Water Element and Kidneys
Fear is the primary emotion associated with the Water element and the energetic Winter season which runs from November 8 to January 7 every year.

While fear is the negative emotion of Water, will power is the positive emotion of the kidneys.

The kidneys control our short-term memory and provide us the capacity for strength and industriousness.

When the kidney energy is strong, we’re able to work hard and diligently for long periods of time. We have the will power to live life with focus and a good sense of direction.

When kidney energy is weak, we lack strength and endurance. We become susceptible to fear and anxiety.

The Water element stores the memory of who we are and the potential of who we can become. All of our accumulated experiences are stored in the Water element and therefore enhance our survival, adaptation and balance.

“In a sense, this element contains stories of survival and triumph passed down through the generations that can be used to ensure our own adaptive powers.

With any chronic condition, loss of the memory of wellness complicates recovery. Deep in the pool of the Water energy are the renewal and revitalization needed to recover wellness. Deep within the brain lies potential for change, knowledge, and wisdom.”

— Charles A. Moss, MD

The Water element corresponds to determination, energetic reserves, faith and trust.

On a physical level, it’s important to note that having a strong sense of faith affects regulation of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol release is necessary but left unregulated, it directly and negatively impacts our health and even our weight.

By connecting to our zhi, the power of the kidney energy and the root of life, we reconnect to the spirit of life and are better able to restore our enthusiasm, confidence, and sense of direction in life. Connecting with the power of the kidney energy and our zhi may also assist us to recover from trauma or medical challenges.

Spirit storehouse that kidney is, it provides us with a reservoir of energy we can tap into to regain self-assurance, trust, and faith in surviving our challenges in life.

For zhi to flourish, we must have a strong trust and faith in the process of life, in ourselves and in other people. When we are balanced in the energy of the Water element, our zhi assists us to overcome abnormal fears.

Some fear, as we know, is necessary to reinforce our survival instinct. It simply must be used wisely and in balance with heightened awareness but not hypervigilance, otherwise that hypervigilance will lead to imbalance.

If you feel you lack faith and trust, search your daily experiences to see how often the mistrust and fear you have felt were actually unjustified. We can all recall a times when we were fearful about something only to find out afterwards that there was nothing to be afraid about after all. Coming to this realization will help rebuild your faith and trust. This simple practice will prove especially valuable for when the next situation arises.

We can also dispel doubts and fears through meditation, prayer, and practicing self-awareness. In meditation, conjure a connection to your deep reserves and potential of the Water energy. Doing so can reinforce the faith you need to overcome obstacles and trust that you’ll not only survive but flourish in life just as Water does.

Another way to strengthen your faith and trust is by accepting reassurance from others. It can help to neutralize the fear-based experience and will strongly encourage all the positive attributes of the Water element within you.

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Endnotes:

This blog was originally published November 21, 2017 but has been expanded here for freshness and comprehensiveness.

Sources:

Clogstoun-Willmott, Jonathan. Western Astrology and Chinese Medicine. Aquarian, 1985.

Ni, Maoshing. The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine: a New Translation of the Neijing Suwen with Commentary. Shambhala, 1995.

Moss, Charles A. Power of the Five Elements: The Chinese Medicine Path to Healthy Aging and Stress Resistance. United States, North Atlantic Books, 2010.

The Earth Element and Spleen Digestive Function: A Balanced Spleen Is Vital to Digestion, Nourishment, Mental Function and Vitality

November 1, 2022 phyto5.us

In traditional Chinese medicine, the between seasons period of Earth is the season of balance, nourishment, nurturing and grounding. It corresponds to the stomach and spleen digestive function and energy. The spleen harvests nutrients from foods.

There are four 18-day periods in the year that occur between energetic seasons according to traditional Chinese medicine. The time period between October 21 and November 7 is the last of the year. The element of the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine associated with this season is Earth.

The spleen is the yin organ of the pair of organs associated with the Earth element and the Earth energetic season. The yang organ of Earth is the stomach.

What is the spleen and what is spleen digestive function?

“Among human solid organs, the spleen seems to be an orphan. With most other organs, such as the brain, heart, and kidney, much has been written on their history, anatomy, function and surgical treatment… Why has the spleen lagged behind other organs in published works? In the popular mind, many people are unaware that they even have a spleen. Still others do not know where in the body it is located. Almost no one knows what it does.”

— Leon Morgenstern, UCLA School of Medicine, California

The spleen contributes to the homeostasis of the body. It helps keep harmful microorganisms and unhealthy abnormal worn out and misshapen red blood cells out of the bloodstream. The spleen also makes lymphocytes(1) and stores blood cells. It’s the principle organ defining the shape of the red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream.

Good spleen digestive function is key to the body’s immune system.

Traditional Chinese medicine tells us the spleen is source of chi (vital energy) and blood. The spleen is responsible for the intake, processing, sorting and distribution of nutrients from food. Nutrients are then transported upwards by the spleen to the lungs. There both heart and lungs take over generating chi and infusing the body’s blood with these nutrients.

The spleen transforms food into nutrients and then transports these nutrients through the pushing/ascending action of the organ’s chi. This is how it relays nutrients to the heart and lungs, into the circulatory system and finally throughout the body.

The spleen ascends its chi. The ascending action helps maintain the position of the organs in the body. Stomach chi descends to facilitate digestion and eliminate undigested food from the body.

The ascending action of the spleen and the descending action of the stomach complement each other in the act of digestion.

In spleen digestive function, sometimes the ascending function of the spleen gets out-of-balance. Its chi energy flows downwards rather than upwards. Symptoms of fatigue, flatulence, loss of appetite, diarrhea and giddiness are the result. When stomach chi is out-of-balance and does not descend vomiting is the result.

The normal adult spleen lies immediately under the diaphragm in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen. It ranges in length from 2-1/3 to 5 inches approximately and in weight from 2-2/3 to 4-1/4 ounces.

Spleen digestive function and the elimination of toxins is very much associated with the Earth element. For this reason, PHYTO5 formulates the Earth line of skincare with ingredients that support spleen digestive function and the circulation of lymph(2). We do this according to principles of traditional Chinese medicine.

As the largest secondary lymphoid organ in the body, the spleen is responsible for a wide range of immunological functions.

Spleen digestive function plays several very important roles in the human body.

An image of the human lymphatic system — the human lymphatic system

In moms-to-be, the spleen begins producing the embryo’s blood cells gradually leaving the job to the mother’s bone marrow.
Spleen captures malfunctioning, abnormal or old red blood cells and expels them from the body.
Spleen recycles iron in red blood cells to create new healthy red blood cells. (If spleen chi is weak, bruising, blood in stools and urine, and purple-colored spots may be found under the skin, among other conditions involving bleeding.)
The spleen assimilates your food’s nutrients (also known as food essence or jingwei in traditional Chinese medicine) which are then conveyed throughout the body via lung, heart and blood vessels.
In the act of spleen digestive function, spleen absorbs water and then transports it through the body via lung, heart and urinary bladder to maintain normal water metabolism.
Good spleen digestive function helps protect the body from infections by producing white blood cells [macrophages and lymphocytes(1)]which travel to the infected parts of the body.
The spleen produces antibodies which help fight infections.
Lymph fluid(1) passes through the spleen where germs and other foreign bodies are captured by white blood cells.
Spleen digestive function contributes to good mental function when in balance. It affects intention which can be weakened by mental strain. Mental turmoil, poor memory, and irritability may be a result of impaired spleen energy.
Balanced spleen digestive function helps keep us free from abnormal fatigue, digestive issues and poor complexion. A deficiency in spleen chi often contributes to fatigue. It can cause symptoms like appetite loss, a sense of abdominal fullness especially after meals, loose stools, breathlessness and a pale yellow complexion. Feeling sluggish and tired may occur when a deficiency in spleen chi prevents inadequate nourishment for the organs.
When spleen digestive function is normal, it promotes the energy required by muscles and limbs producing a vitality filled body.
Spleen participates with the other energies of the body which it irrigates and moistens.

Dampness and the Spleen

Traditional Chinese medicine tells us a damp spleen occurs when the spleen can’t transport and transform body fluids properly. This leads to an accumulation of moisture within the body.

Dampness is turbid, heavy and difficult to reverse. Often originating in the legs it will move upward to the abdomen. Symptoms include a thick greasy tongue coating, loose stools, bloating, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a heavy feeling in the body or limbs.

High and frequent intake of raw, cold and spicy foods can damage the spleen and cause dampness. Dairy products, processed foods, alcohol, sugar and sweeteners will exacerbate already existing dampness in the body.

If you’re concerned about your spleen digestive function, here are some simple actions to take:

Assist your digestive process by chewing your food well. Chewing food thoroughly reduces the workload on your digestive system and food is absorbed more easily. By chewing your food very well, mealtime will be naturally longer and this will help you attain a feeling of fullness and prevent overeating.
Refrain from drinking fluids while having a meal.
Try not to drink cold beverages but if you must, have some warm tea first. Too much cold beverage can damage the spleen and drinking cold beverages at mealtime will force the body to take time to warm up the food before it can even be digested.
Eat lots of whole foods. Nourish the spleen with sweet whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Consume red dates, Chinese yam and lotus seeds often, if not, daily. This will help nourish your spleen digestive function.
Avoid overeating and feasting. This makes the spleen work overtime to sort through too many nutrients at once. Overeating also results in food stagnation. The spleen doesn’t have enough time to empty your stomach before your next meal. This causes bloating and fatigue.
Exercise most especially the abdominals and thighs because the spleen meridian runs up the legs.
Take time for relaxation. Traditional Chinese medicine finds mealtimes extremely important times of the day. They should not be mixed with working, reading or watching television. Doing so may inhibit the passage of food through the body and negatively affect your spleen digestive function.

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Endnotes:

(1) Lymphocyte: a form of small leukocyte (white blood cell) with a single round nucleus, occurring especially in the lymphatic system

(2) Lymph: a colorless fluid containing white blood cells that bathes the tissues and drains through the lymphatic system into the bloodstream

Sources:

Liu, Yanchi, Kathleen Vian, and Peter Eckman. The Essential Book of Traditional Chinese Medicine. New York: Columbia UP, 1988. Print.

Photo by shironosov at Getty Images via Canva

Millet Extract: Consumed or Applied Topically in Skincare Is a Potent Therapeutic Ingredient for Soothing, Purifying and Beautifying Skincare

October 11, 2022 phyto5.us

Millet extract works to restructure skin and improve the skin barrier that protects skin from environmental insults. It lends radiance to skin and prevents trans-epidermal water loss.

Millet extract is a principal ingredient in many of PHYTO5’s Earth element line which is formulated to balance the Earth condition of toxicity, blemishes, acne, psoriasis, enlarged pores, and sluggish lymph circulation.

The millet seed is known for providing many fundamental benefits to the skin:

softening
soothing
nourishing
stimulating
revitalizing

Nutrient rich millet contains a high proportion of essential vitamins and is close to 90% unsaturated fatty acids.

Though millet is not actually a grain, it is considered one of very few alkaline grains. In truth, it’s a power packed starchy seed native to South America. Gluten-free millet is extremely nutritious and has a very rich protein and amino acid profile. At approximately 15% protein, millet contains lecithin and the essential amino acid methionine.

Millet is also high in silica which is quite beneficial for bones and connective tissue. Millet’s rich silicon content helps to rebuild connective tissue.

Read our blogs on the topic of silica: Probably the Most Underappreciated Nutrient for Skin’s Radiance and the Body’s Vitality: Silica and Silica Rich Horsetail: Very Beneficial for Anti-Aging Skin and Hair Care.

Millet is rich in vitamins E, B complex, niacin, thiamin and riboflavin. In addition, phenolic compounds in millet provide potent antioxidant activity and thus benefits such as slowing signs of aging.

Physiologically, millet is a digestive dynamo. It supports the digestive organs, in particular, the stomach and spleen, your energy battery, so to speak. Easily digestible, millet strengthens weak digestion and helps improve nutrient uptake. It removes unwanted excess acid and aggressively helps to inhibit the growth of fungus and yeasts such as Candida.

Millet is quite resilient being able to thrive even with a lack of water and can produce seed in conditions where other plants cannot grow. Millet is the seed which bears the highest mineral content some of which are iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.

Though history shows that millet was known for making hair, skin and nails beautiful, its positive beauty attributes have only been rediscovered relatively recently. With all of its nutritive attributes, millet actually motivates the skin to perform better.

Millet extract is known to:

support the skin’s natural functions
beautify and smoothe the skin
improve the structure of the skin
contribute to radiant skin tone

Specific to skin, millet extract may also:

Help reduce acne: Lipoic acid, an antioxidant found in millet, increases cell metabolism and blood circulation and is an anti-inflammatory, two actions which, when combined, help reduce acne.
Improve elasticity and fight wrinkles: Amino acids L-lysine and L-proline help create collagen which provides structure skin tissue.
Combat aging of the skin: The antioxidants in millet neutralize free radicals which cause aging. Millet assists to rejuvenate skin cells. The ubiquinone content in millet is a known wrinkle-reducer.
Improve overall complexion: Millet is rich in complexion enhancing and antioxidant vitamin E which penetrates the skin’s layers and aids in natural wound healing. Millet forms a protective layer in the skin which can keep free radicals away from wounds. Millet also serves as a lubricant to the skin.
Bring youthfulness to the skin: By consuming millet in the diet, we can assist the protection and strengthening of our cells and skin from the ravages of free radical damage thereby creating younger looking, more supple skin.
Act as a moisturizing agent: Consuming millet assists us to retain the natural moisture content in our skin thereby reversing dull and dry looking skin to vibrant and healthier looking skin. Because of its ability to moisturize, it’s also beneficial for chapped lips.
Reduce scarring: The antioxidant alium found in millet increases blood flow to scar tissue assisting the growth of new skin and minimizing scarring. Millet helps the skin to repair itself more quickly, and it protects and firms the skin.
Protect the skin from sun damage: Millet’s selenium and vitamin C and E content are effective protectants against sun damage and skin cancer amplifying healthy fresh growth of new cells that bring youth to the skin and make it appear more radiant. It can assist to combat hyperpigmentation.
Strengthen hair follicles: Protein rich millet is highly recommended for hair loss. Lack of protein is one factor which contributes to hair loss.
Serve as therapeutic for scalp conditions: The magnesium in millet reduces scalp inflammation and is beneficial for treating eczema, psoriasis and dandruff. Consuming millet may help in pacifying metabolic syndrome, a health condition which causes premature balding.
Stimulate the growth of hair: Millet promotes the circulation of blood circulation in the scalp and thus promotes hair growth.
Reduce hair loss: Increased cortisol levels in the body may lead to significant hair loss however the magnesium in millet has been found to counteract it.
Help prevent premature graying of the hair: The antioxidant content in millet effectively prevents tissue oxidation and may assist with premature graying.

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Endnotes:

McKeith, Gillian. Dr. Gillian McKeith's Living Food for Health: 12 Natural Superfoods to Transform Your Health. United Kingdom, Piatkus, 2000.

Underkoffler, Renee Loux. Living Cuisine: The Art and Spirit of Raw Foods. United Kingdom, Penguin Publishing Group, 2004.

Simple Effective Preventives for Fall Colds and Viruses: Wear A Scarf, Get Cupped, and Seek Out a Good Acupuncture Physici

September 7, 2022 phyto5.us

The connection between weather, especially Wind, and human health has been very seriously explored in many of the world’s most scholarly traditional medical systems such as traditional Chinese medicine.(1) There exists today a growing number of progressive medical doctors, especially in Europe who, convinced that the weather is much more important to our health than mere thermal comfort, have named an emerging discipline dedicated to this study. It’s called biometeorology. Whether you follow formal or folk medicine, many practitioners of both will readily tell you this: When it's windy, especially during energetic Fall and Winter, if you want to prevent the dreaded colds and flu of the seasons, cover your nose, mouth, neck and shoulders before going outside. But how is the simple habit of wrapping yourself up in a scarf able to keep you healthier during the cold weather seasons? Traditional Chinese medicine, for one, explains how.

“According to Chinese medical theory, cold and flu viruses are ever present in the air we breathe, and it is the Wind blowing into our faces that drives the virus into the body at the most common points of entry: the nose and the mouth. Protecting these portals is considered so important in China that instead of wrapping a scarf around the neck, people usually wear it across the face, covering the nose and mouth.”

— Ilkay Zihni Chirali in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Cupping Therapy.

The five elements of traditional Chinese medicine are five aspects of the energy that regulates the material dimension of our lives, our bodies included. They are sometimes referred to as the “energy of earth” in contrast to the “energy of heaven” or cosmos.(2)

A colorful graphic line chart representing the five colors of the five elements, seasons and evils of traditional Chinese medicine

There are six components to this cosmic energy called the Six Excesses or Evils. Traditional Chinese medicine finds Wind to be one of the six environmentally related external causes (Excess or Evil) of imbalance which leads to diseases, conditions and disorders of the body. These six climatic excesses can attack the body, enter the body’s energy meridian pathways, and cause external diseases.

Wind is one of five climates that characterize the five seasons of traditional Chinese medicine and it is considered to be the backbone of many diseases by traditional Chinese medicine.

Wind is Yang Energy
Traditional Chinese medicine finds Wind to be a yang pathogenic factor that causes symptoms in the physical body that wander and change. Wind in the body resembles the Wind in nature. It generates not only movement but movement in parts of the body that would otherwise remain motionless.

This yang characteristic of Wind means it’s ‘elevated,’ mostly affecting the uppermost yang regions of the body—head and thorax. And it means it attacks the outermost levels of the body, too—skin pores, muscles and tendons, before penetrating the lungs, the most external and uppermost of all the internal organs. It is no coincidence that lung is the organ of the Fall season’s Metal element, the time of year when wind, colds and flu all ramp up in earnest.

Roots of this Knowledge In Ancient Chinese Medicine
In the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine (the Nei Jing Suwen), the medical mentor and Taoist monk Qi Bo tells his student:

“Pathogenic Wind is the root of all evil.”

A digitized copy of a page of the Nei Jing Suwen

In Shigehisa Kuriyama’s Chapter, Wind and Self, in his book, The Expressiveness of the Body and the Divergence of Greek and Chinese Medicine, he aptly writes that ancient people were completely convinced that Wind had a diabolical influence on their health. He also points out the fact that in today’s times we rarely link Wind with illness.

Common Conditions Exacerbated or Caused by Wind
Many who suffer from heightened rheumatic pain when the weather changes don’t often connect the dots when they’ve also experienced very recent exposure to cold or hot Wind.

Many people affected with Bell’s (facial) palsy have often been exposed to Windy conditions just days before onset of the palsy.

School teachers will often notice a negative change in behavior in their students on Windy days.

People who work in highly air-conditioned settings will often report headaches and tight or painful necks and shoulders.

Wind in the Body
Traditional Chinese medicine indicates that a case of Wind invasion in the body includes symptoms of sneezing, headache, and congestion.

Wind makes it easier for other illnesses to invade your body because if you are already feeling a little sick and your immune system is compromised, you are more likely to be vulnerable to other problems. In other words, the presence of nefarious Wind helps other influences to invade and wreak havoc on the body.

Traditional Chinese medicine indicates that colds and flu can enter the body through the skin. Cold Winds pushing against the skin force cold into the body. If you have ingested a virus carried by the Wind, this virus will remain just beneath the skin for a short time before advancing deeper into the body and entering the lungs.

In order to maintain stasis, the body is forced to work against the cold, the Wind, and the actual virus, but a person may not have enough energy to fight them off. When this occurs, symptoms of cold and flu take hold.

Traditional Chinese medicine also identifies acupuncture meridians that travel through the body from the most superficial layer of the body–the skin–to the deepest, most interior parts of the body.

Colds and flu originate at the superficial layers of the body but when we are unable to fight off a Wind attack, it moves deeper into the body causing more serious illness. This could explain, in part, why some people whose immune systems are compromised, die as a result of complications from the flu or a corona virus.

Among the more superficial channels of the body providing the most common routes of cold and Wind entering the body are:

the bladder channel which travels vertically passing through the neck and back, and;
the small intestine channel which travels horizontally across the neck and shoulder.

When cold and Wind attack through these channels, we may experience a stiff neck, headaches especially at the back of the neck, an aversion to Wind, a lack of sweating, chills, listlessness, fatigue, and a stuffed up nose or head.

“Located on the neck and shoulders, the Wind points are considered both entry points for Wind and areas you can stimulate to expel the Wind and prevent further penetration of the body’s kingdom.”

— Ilkay Zihni Chirali

Author Chirali (whose quote is mentioned just above) writes how his teacher, a Vietnamese Buddhist wandering monk in the medical tradition, explained to him why a Wind attack to the body can be very painful:

“Wind allowed to pass through a narrow opening is ‘poisonous’ because it is compressed and pierces the flesh like a dagger. Its impact is funneled and focused, as if adjusting the nozzle of a hose to concentrate its intensity.”

Wind and Cancer Metastasis in Traditional Chinese Medicine
The scholarly article, The Concept of Wind in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Journal of Pharmacopuncture, December 2016, says this about how Wind may affect the metastasis of cancer in the body:

“Cancer metastasis is the spread of cancer cells to tissues and organs beyond where the tumor originated, resulting in the formation of new tumors. The formation of metastases is a major problem in clinical oncology because it is one of the main causes of death in most cancer patients. Classical Chinese medicine has no specific concept of cancer; however, experts in traditional Chinese medicine are studying the causes and treatments of metastasis. Traditional Chinese medicine doctors believe the causes of cancer are multiple, including toxins and other environmental factors, called ‘external causes,’ as well as ‘internal causes’ such as Blood and Qi stagnation, emotional stress, bad eating habits, wastes accumulated from food, and damaged organs. They also believe that Internal Wind of hepatic origin is not only one of the causes of malignant tumors but also the main cause for the formation of metastases. An analysis of the causes of internal Wind in patients with malignant tumors suggests that removing Wind is the fundamental method of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of patients with malignant tumors and metastases; thus, drugs that eliminate Wind are important prescriptions for treating patients with such tumors.”

Cupping as Therapy for Wind in the Body
The holistic healing modality of ‘cupping,’ known in traditional Chinese medicine as the ‘capturing of the Winds’ is believed to offer positive and healing actions.

drainage-treatment-with-biorhythmic-drainer-by-phyto5.jpg

Cupping is a Chinese therapy in which heated glass cups are applied to the skin along the meridians of the body, creating suction as a way of stimulating the flow of vital energy. (Skincare professionals reading this article may be interested to learn that the Biorhythmic Drainer, proprietary equipment offered by PHYTO5 and pictured just above, is a very safe, painless and effective way to easily and elegantly provide a state-of-the-art cupping therapy to clients.)

In Western and Eastern Europe and in Asia, cupping is considered a form of very effective folk medicine where mothers and healers improvise with glass cups, cotton cloth, olive oil, a bronze coin and a flame to create a system of induction efficient enough to remove Wind from the body.

Family lineages of skilled cuppers have been highly respected as healers for generations. Preferring to deal with the possibility rather than the outcome, they apply cupping either as a preventive or at the first sign of discomfort.

“Vietnamese people understand that getting a diagnosis of gio (Wind) means you are better off inside the home, otherwise to go outside means you are liable to be struck by Wind again and get far worse”

— The Buddhist Abbot the Venerable Thich Phuoch Tan

Famed canonized saint and eleventh century polymath, Hildegard von Bingen, also recommended cupping to relieve the effects of certain humoral (fluid) imbalances caused by Wind. She saw the body as microcosm permeable to the outside macrocosmic world. She understood how Wind is an elemental life force that normally circulated throughout the physiology of the body but she also was aware that Wind could be a exogenous pathological factor, too. She understood how Wind entered the body’s orifices right down to the body’s tiny skin pores thereby tipping the delicate balance of health with sickness the result.

“One of the chief reasons why cupping continues to remain popular as a folk practice and attracts modern day therapists is because it effectively withdraws climatic pathogenic factors from both the superficial and deeper layers of the body.”

— Ilkay Zihni Chirali

Wind In Another Form
• It should also be noted that covering the neck and shoulders also applies to any type of Wind generation including cold breezes generated by air-conditioning and fans.
• Keep the air-conditioning in your home down to a minimum to maintain your healthful balance.
• If you sleep in cold weather with your Window open, open the window just a crack and be sure you’re bundled up in bed.
• Maintain a body that’s closed to Wind.

Yogi Body Gel Terre [Earth Yogi Body Gel for Between Seasons • Quantum Energetic]

Keep Your Pores Small and Protected
Additionally, if your skin pores are more open, they should have no contact with the cold and Wind. The pores’ natural capacity is to protect against any invasive climatic influences.

If you normally have enlarged pores, you may want to use PHYTO5’s Earth element Yogi Body Gel for the body and the Earth line of facial products. These are formulated to help reduce enlarged pores.

Learn more

Conclusion
Reduce your chance of catching the common cold or contracting a flu virus simply by covering your neck, shoulders, nose and mouth in windy and/or cold conditions.

You may also want to seek out an integrity holistic cupping therapist for prevention and especially if you feel the onset signs of a cold or flu.

Understanding the meticulous observations of the effect of Wind on health in ancient Chinese medicine is actually applicable for today’s public health specialists, traditional and complementary medicine practitioners. In addition to the practices of wearing a scarf or receiving cupping therapy, herbs and acupuncture are also commonly administered by practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine to eliminate Wind in order to treat various diseases.

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Endnotes:

(1)This connection has also been studied in Ayurvedic(a), Unani,(b) Gaelic/Celtic(c) and Islamic(d) medicines.

(a) In Ayurvedic medicine, various changes in our natural environment such as Wind direction can create numerous issues connected with aggravating our dosha, one of three bodily “bio-elements” that make up one's constitution and govern physiological activity.

(b) Unani is a system of medicine practiced in parts of India, thought to be derived via medieval Muslim physicians from Byzantine Greece. It is sometimes contrasted with the Ayurvedic system.

(c) Today it is challenging to objectively evaluate Celtic medical lore since its records are faded and fragmented. These include Farquhar Leech, the healer, the Druids and St. Columba among many others. Many believe the 12 Celtic directional Winds tend to correspond with those of American Indian medicine wheels.

(d) Islamic medicine is the science of medicine developed in the Islamic Golden Age (eighth to 14th century). Islamic medicine preserved, systematized and developed the medical knowledge of classical antiquity, including the major traditions of Hippocrates, Galen* and Dioscorides.**

*Hippocrates (c. 460–377 bc), was a Greek physician and is traditionally regarded as the father of medicine. His name is associated with the medical profession's Hippocratic oath because of his attachment to a body of ancient Greek medical writings widely believed to not even having been written by him.

**Galen was a Greek physician (129–199), who while attempting to systematize medicine, made important discoveries in anatomy and physiology.

***Pedanius Dioscorides, c. 40–90 AD, was a Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author of De materia medica (On Medical Material)—a five-volume Greek pharmacopeia of herbal medicine and related medicinal substances that was widely read for more than 1,500 years.

(2) This explains why traditional Chinese medicine tells us we live “between heaven and earth.”

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Sources:

Photo of lady in blue scarf courtesy of Omid Bonyadian at pexels.

Photo of Chinese apothecary courtesy of freestocks.org via pexels

Photo of man being cupped courtesy of Antoni Shkraba at pexels

Image of the Nei Jing Suwen File:The Su Wen of the Huangdi Neijing.djvu courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

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

Chirali, Ilkay Zihni. Traditional Chinese Medicine: Cupping Therapy. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 1999. Print.

Sage Journals: Your Gateway to World-Class Research Journals. https://journals.sagepub.com/.

Joiner, Thomas Richard. Chinese Herbal Medicine Made Easy: Natural and Effective Remedies for Common Illnesses. United States, Hunter House, 2001.

Kuriyama, Shigehisa. The Expressiveness of the Body and the Divergence of Greek and Chinese Medicine. Zone Books, 2011.

Dashtdar M, Dashtdar MR, Dashtdar B, Kardi K, Shirazi MK. The Concept of Wind in Traditional Chinese Medicine. J Pharmacopuncture. 2016 Dec;19(4):293-302. doi: 10.3831/KPI.2016.19.030. PMID: 28097039; PMCID: PMC5234349.

This blog was originally published on October 10, 2016 and is extensively updated here for freshness and comprehensiveness.

Sweet Almond Oil: Soothing, Softening, Anti-Aging Skincare Miracle of Nature

August 21, 2022 phyto5.us

Several raw almonds and a small jar of sweet almond oil on a wooden table

In skincare, sweet almond oil is used both for its properties and as a carrier oil.(1) Sweet almond oil, found in Metal element Sweet Almond Oil Shampoo and also in Ageless La Cure by PHYTO5’s soothing pink Clay Mask, is obtained from the kernel of the almond. Not only does it have a wonderfully pleasant aroma, it has a very soft texture and is slowly absorbed into the skin. Sweet almond oil is derived exclusively from edible almonds and is the kind used in skincare. External application of the oil can prevent dehydration by reducing moisture loss from the skin, scalp and hair.

Sweet almond oil, which can be used by itself, is a mild hypoallergenic oil which relieves itching and inflammation as it nourishes the skin with its oleic acid content (unsaturated fatty acids). It is well known for its ability to promote a more youthful complexion and overall skin health.

Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins E and A, monounsaturated fatty acids, protein, potassium, and zinc.

The vitamin E in sweet almond oil promotes suppleness of the skin, smoothing of fine lines and overall skin softness. Any almond oil that adds more vitamin E to a skincare product formulation would probably be utilizing synthetic almond oil since quality natural sweet almond oil already contains an abundance of the vitamin.

Vitamin E in almond oil also protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation. Most importantly, it is a powerful antioxidant which helps maintain your skin’s collagen layer.

Collagen lies under the skin in an even layer providing a kind of padding that keeps the skin taut and supple. When our skin begins to thin as we age, the collagen layer underneath the skin becomes uneven. This is when we also begin to notice the forming of fine lines. Almond oil is shown to play an important role in the delay of signs of aging, especially premature aging.

Because almond oil contains vitamin E in abundance, it can help repair some of the damage done to the collagen layer which is caused by oxidative stress.(2) The oil can also provide amino acids required for the formation of collagen because it is so rich in protein.

Vitamin A easily penetrates the skin working to cleanse it from embedded dirt and oil in the pores preventing blackheads and possibly acne from developing.

If your skin is oily, sweet almond oil is noncomedogenic meaning it is very unlikely to block your pores and it is excellent in the treatment of acne.

Sweet almond oil is also wonderful for hair and scalp to cleanse hair follicles because of its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties It softens hair, providing it the moisture it requires. It strengthens hair because of its biotin content. Sweet almond oil protects hair from sun damage. And together with zinc, it is also abundant in minerals magnesium and calcium which makes almond oil effective in controlling dandruff and loss of hair thus promoting hair growth.

Sweet almond oil helps hair develop a natural sheen.

The fatty acids in sweet almond oil work to heal chapped and irritated skin. Redness of the skin and inflammation can be calmed with sweet almond oil.

Because the oil is rich in zinc, it can be effective in the treatment of skin rashes and chafed skin.

…

Endnotes:

(1) A carrier oil is used to dilute essential oils and absolutes before they are applied to the skin in massage and aromatherapy. They carry the essential oil onto the skin. Diluting essential oils is a critical safety practice when using essential oils because of the very high potency of quality essential oils. Essential oils used alone are volatile because they begin to dissipate as soon as they are applied. The carrier oil slows the rate of dispersion which varies based on how light or heavy the carrier oil is. Carrier oils often do not contain a concentrated aroma and they do not evaporate like essential oil. Excellent skincare products will use carrier oils that are completely natural and free from adulteration.

(2)Oxidative stress happens when the amount of destructive mutating cells or free radicals in our system exceeds the amount of antioxidants (a substance that removes potentially damaging oxidizing agents). This is when oxidation damages our cells, proteins and our DNA.

…

Sources:

Worwood, Valerie Ann. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: over 800 Natural, Nontoxic, and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health, Beauty, and Safe Home and Work Environments. New World Library, 2016.

A Natural Treatment for Age Spot

August 2, 2022 phyto5.us

A glass top table features an open tube of hyperpigmentation treating Perfection Cream open and ready to use

‘Age spots’ on the skin (also colloquially called brown spots or liver spots) are associated with aging, exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation, inflammation, skin injuries and a number of other potential causes discussed below. Age spots are characterized as hyperpigmentation of the skin. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of skin or nails caused by increased melanin.(1)

Crème Perfection [Ageless Perfection Cream for hyperpigmentation]

$95.00

Quantity:

PHYTO5, the maker of Ageless La Cure skincare, utilizes the essential oil of the alpine flower edelweiss, wakame, a Japanese brown algae, and natural phytic acid in Perfection Cream to effectively lighten brown spots:

Edelweiss essential oil offers a high antioxidant content more potent than vitamin C to attenuate dark spots. It is clinically proven to reduce brown spots and decrease melanin. You will also find edelweiss essential oil in PHYTO5’s Swiss line product, Face Gel.
Wakame is Japanese brown algae and is proven to lighten skin and smooth out age spots as it simultaneously inhibits the formation of new spots. Wakame is also a unique ingredient in the Swiss line Face Exfoliation, a mineralizing, stimulating and skin brightening product.
Natural phytic acid is extracted from wheat and prevents brown spots by decreasing the synthesis of melanin. Phytic acid contributes to wakame’s potency.

Age spots tend to develop in people with fair complexions, but people with darker skin can also get them. Many people who develop brown spots on the skin are hereditarily predisposed to them.

Hyperpigmented skin spots are generally associated with aging because from approximately age 40 onward our skin tends to be less able to regenerate itself as a result of exposure to the sun. The spots range in color from light brown to red or black and pop up in areas most often exposed to the sun, particularly the hands, face, neck, arms, and bald scalp.

Age spots were once believed to be caused by liver problems, but in actuality, they are most frequently unrelated to the liver. In addition to excessive sun exposure, possible causes also include:

poor diet
lack of exercise
smoking
poor liver function
consumption of oxidized oils
alcohol consumption
hormonal changes
metabolic disorders.

People who live in sunny climates are especially prone to age spots.

Brown spots are the result of a buildup of wastes called lipofuscin accumulation, a byproduct of free radical damage in skin cells. The presence of these spots is a sign that free radical intoxication of the body is occurring. Lipofuscin accumulation is caused by a deficiency of several key nutrients:

vitamin E
selenium
glutathione
chromium and
dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE).

Using poor quality or old cold creams, cleansing creams or solid moisturizing creams can also lead to the formation of brown spots on the skin because they contain hardened saturated fats that become rancid very rapidly thus creating free radicals.

Not only do these free radicals cause brown spots, they can cause premature wrinkles. This is why it is important to be very selective about the types of skincare creams you use. The Ageless La Cure all Swiss-made line of products takes the guesswork out of it for you since they are organic certified, natural and manufactured under exacting Swiss practices and regulations.

The use of plants to treat skin conditions such as age spots is as old as humankind. Alphahydroxy acids found in certain fruits, for example, increase cell turnover and their enzymes lighten the skin. Alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) from fresh peeled banana, mango and Amazonian mombin plum in PHYTO Peel are naturally derived fruit acids also known for their ability to firm and tighten the skin as well as reduce the appearance of facial lines.The antioxidants in these fruits help to ward off ultraviolet rays to prevent new spots from forming.

Perfection Cream mentioned at the outset of this article also contains the following natural ingredients with wonderful skin enhancing properties:

Shea butter from West Africa: Very moisturizing with healing and anti-inflammatory properties, it softens and smoothes skin and stimulates the synthesis of collagen. Shea butter is recommended for the prevention of wrinkles and aging of the skin while protecting it from harsh weather conditions.
Verbena flower water: Verbena flower cools, softens, firms, heals and soothes the skin. (It is recommended for cases of psoriasis of nervous origin.)
Damask rose essential oil: The prized damask rose soothes irritation and redness and offers toning and regeneration to skin. Enjoy soothing damask rose essential oil and extract in many Ageless La Cure products.

#####

Endnotes:

(1) Melanin is a class of pigment responsible for producing color in the body in places such as the eyes, skin, and hair.

Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing: a Practical A-to-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & Food Supplements. Penguin, 2011.

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Breathing

Eating and Drinking

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.

Marine algae skin care products combat radiation and its damaging effects.

Marine algae offers properties for skin you might not get from your diet.

Marine algae skin care products benefit from the algae’s very diverse composition and functions.

Marine algae skin care products are composed of algae of several colors.

The high mineral content of marine algae is incredibly important for skin.

Marine algae skin care products are all around skin protective and restorative.

The Earth element not only refers to the actual soil but the character, dynamic state, and elemental force of the element.

We find Earth element symbolism well articulated in landscape and building forms.

Earth element symbolism points to yin and yang, famine and masculine aspects.

Earth element symbolism shows up in human characteristics.

TCM tells us Earth’s location is center and center always stabilizes energy and balances yin and yang.

Earth element symbolism runs through ancient Chinese history.

Earth element symbolism runs through much other ancient history too.

Observe Earth element symbolism in geometry and numerology.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning is evident throughout history and cultures.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning influences the Christmas celebration.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning naturally reverberates from the intense solar event it is.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning follows nature’s cues.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reflects in the entire Winter season.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reminds us we need to open to change and accept it.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning begs us to let go of strict dogmas and rigid ways of being.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning derives from a pivotal solar event that reinforces the vitality and happiness we enjoy from cyclical living.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning endures throughout the entire Winter season.

Good spleen digestive function is key to the body’s immune system.

Spleen digestive function plays several very important roles in the human body.

Dampness and the Spleen

If you’re concerned about your spleen digestive function, here are some simple actions to take:

Skincare Professionals, click below to opt-in.

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Breathing

Eating and Drinking

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.

Marine algae skin care products combat radiation and its damaging effects.

Marine algae offers properties for skin you might not get from your diet.

Marine algae skin care products benefit from the algae’s very diverse composition and functions.

Marine algae skin care products are composed of algae of several colors.

The high mineral content of marine algae is incredibly important for skin.

Marine algae skin care products are all around skin protective and restorative.

The Earth element not only refers to the actual soil but the character, dynamic state, and elemental force of the element.

We find Earth element symbolism well articulated in landscape and building forms.

Earth element symbolism points to yin and yang, famine and masculine aspects.

Earth element symbolism shows up in human characteristics.

TCM tells us Earth’s location is center and center always stabilizes energy and balances yin and yang.

Earth element symbolism runs through ancient Chinese history.

Earth element symbolism runs through much other ancient history too.

Observe Earth element symbolism in geometry and numerology.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning is evident throughout history and cultures.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning influences the Christmas celebration.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning naturally reverberates from the intense solar event it is.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning follows nature’s cues.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reflects in the entire Winter season.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning reminds us we need to open to change and accept it.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning begs us to let go of strict dogmas and rigid ways of being.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning derives from a pivotal solar event that reinforces the vitality and happiness we enjoy from cyclical living.

The Winter Solstice spiritual meaning endures throughout the entire Winter season.

Good spleen digestive function is key to the body’s immune system.

Spleen digestive function plays several very important roles in the human body.

Dampness and the Spleen

If you’re concerned about your spleen digestive function, here are some simple actions to take:

Skincare Professionals, click below to opt-in.

May We Help You?FAQsShipping PolicyReturns, Terms, ConditionsPrivacy

May We Help You?
FAQs
Shipping Policy
Returns, Terms, Conditions
Privacy