Monday, March 3rd 2003
As we age, we notice indicators such as wrinkles; thinning, dry and brittle hair; loss of skin elasticity; fading memory and weak bones. The body needs considerable amounts of silica and if it is lacking the ageing process could be accelerated. The mineral silica is sometimes referred to as "the youth and beauty mineral" as it helps keep the cells glued together.
Silica is a major component of collagen and when it is in ample supply in the body, the skin stays soft and elastic, the eyes sparkle, the hair is shiny and the bones and teeth remain strong.
Silica works in harmony with calcium and assists in the mineralisation of bones. This is a positive role silica plays in helping the body ward off osteoporosis. There is also some indication that silica helps dissipate abnormal tissue and bone growths such as calcium nodules and spurs. Dentists have indicated that people with excessive dental caries and who have weak or poorly formed teeth, may be deficient in silica. A shortage of silica in the brain and nerves can affect both memory and neurological responses.
Can you get enough silica from your food? Most nutritionists say it is doubtful. This is mainly because the silica in fresh vegetables is diminished or destroyed through over-cooking and over processing of food. The stress of every day living seems to adversely affect the body's ability to retain silica.
Nature has an answer and has provided a natural source of silica in the Horsetail herb. The stem of this plant contains large amounts of natural silica in a largely water soluble colloidal form that is easily and quickly assimilated by the body.
The German Commission E has approved Horsetail use for infections of the urinary tract, kidney and bladder stones, wounds and burn healing. It is also used for static and post-traumatic oedema.
Silica may not be the best-known mineral but it certainly is a very important one.
Reproduced unabridged from the February/ March 2003 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.
The following products are all useful for anti-aging and general health:
Ageless Beauty
Amino Collagen Complex
Collagen & Keratin Capsules
Divine Face Oil
Imaglow
Mineral Power
Multi Power
QSilica Gel 500ml
Phyto Calcium Complete
Rosehip Oil
Super Calcium Complete
Superior Magnesium
Zinc 120 tabs
Related health information can be found here:
7-Keto DHEA, the fountain of youth hormone
Calcium Deficiency
Cystitis
Hair {Thinning}
Kidney Stones
Memory
Osteoporosis
Skin Health
Water Retention
Water, the elixir of life
Related articles can be found here:
Natural personal care - what really is in that deodorant?
Trilogy Rosehip Oil - why it's just so good for the skin
If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.
Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.
ref:nh118
Slim Hoodia - Buy one get one free
$79.90
More Info | Add to Basket
Win a $25 shopping voucher
drawn monthly
Make a personal invitation....
to visit healthyonline
Comments