Calcium

Supplementing calcium is of crucial importance for women from the age of 30. Many women only consider supplementing calcium when they reach menopause, but it should be started much earlier. Women should not wait until Osteoporosis has been diagnosed before they start taking calcium. Prevention is better than cure.

The calcium in Vascafem is from both an organic (water soluble) and inorganic source and provides you with 500 milligrams of elemental calcium daily.

Kelp

Kelp provides excellent nutrients from the sea, particularly iodine, which is vital for the thyroid gland to function properly. The thyroid gland is an important regulator of metabolism and weight.

Other nutrients in kelp include protein, essential fatty acids, carbohydrates, fibre, trace elements, sodium and potassium salts.

Kelp is also an important general and nutritive tonic herb, which can be taken as a supplement by patients with obesity, heart disease, respiratory disease, rheumatism, arthritis, high blood pressure, thyroid deficiency, constipation, gastrointestinal ailments and infectious disease. Research has shown that kelp has a positive effect on the symptoms of these conditions.

If you have an iodine allergy, you might get an allergic reaction from kelp.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 has been associated with healthy bones in post-menopausal women. More than 50 chemical processes in the body depend on vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 levels can be low in depression and when birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy are used.

Ginkgo biloba

The Chinese herb Ginkgo biloba has been used for centuries by the Chinese to treat lung ailments, vascular diseases and as a memory booster for the aged.

Ginkgo biloba contains antioxidants, vitamin C and carotenoids known as ginkgolides. Ginkgo flavanoids dilate micro-capillaries, which increase blood circulation and oxygen levels in brain tissues and the extremities. Ginkgo is also a potent antioxidant keeping arterial walls flexible and decreasing the formation of plaque in the veins and arteries.

Ginkgo strengthens the cardiovascular system. It also scavenges on free radicals that can damage cells and accelerate aging(refer to our articles on free radicals and antioxidants).

Ginkgo may be useful to improve the memory of men and women, especially when used in conjunction with Hawthorn. In Germany and France, it is frequently prescribed to elderly patients.

Hawthorn berry

Hawthorn berry works to increase cardiovascular health. It is an excellent heart tonic as it dilates peripheral blood vessels, coronary vessels and improves blood circulation.

Ginkgo can interfere with the seizure threshold in people with epilepsy.

Diabetics should be aware that Ginkgo may reduce their insulin requirements. Adjustments may be needed. Regular glucose level checks may be required initially. The benefits of improved vascular circulation for diabetics are enormous.

Ginkgo has an inhibitory effect on blood platelet aggregation which means that it effectively reduces the tendency of blood components to stick together. It the tendency of dangerous clots forming in the veins and arteries. The ability to inhibit blood clotting implies that Ginkgo may increase the effects of anticoagulant drugs such as Heparin, Warfarin and Aspirin.Regular testing of your prothrombin index is important when taking Warfarin to be able to make any needed adjustments to Warfarin therapy.

Patients with angina or rhythm disturbances should take note that Hawthorn may influence heart rhythm.

Persons on any other medication, especially diabetics and those on Warfarin, should start on an even lower dose of a half a tablet twice a day for five days. Then proceed to a higher dose of one twice a day as indicated on the container.