1) How is dosage determined?
2) How much alcohol am I taking in a dose of liquid extract?
3) Can I remove the alcohol if I put the extract in boiling water?
4) What is the best way to consume herbal extracts?
5) Why does it say to take my herbs with warm water?
6) How much warm water should I take with my extracts?
7) What is the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment for herbal medicines?
8) How much alcohol am I consuming per dose when I take a liquid extract?
9) Are alcohol-free herbal extracts as concentrated as the alcohol extracts?
10) Can I combine several extracts or formulas and take them together?
11) Can I use herbal extracts safely during pregnancy?
12) What is the best way to take liquid herbal extracts?
13) Can children use herbal extracts safely?
14) How long should I take an herbal extract?
15) How do I recognize the quality and concentration of herbal extracts
16) Why is there alcohol in herbal extracts?
17) How do you make your alcohol-free extracts?
18) Why is there alcohol in liquid extracts?
19) How do I compare Gaia Herbs Liquid Phyto-Caps with Gaia’s Liquid extracts?
20) How do I compare Gaia’s liquid extracts with other branded liquid herbal extracts?
21) How do I compare liquid extracts to capsules or tablets?
22) Why do you have low alcohol products for Milk Thistle and Kava Kava rather than alcohol free?
23) Can Thyroid Support be used with a hypothyroid medicine like Synthroid?
24) Can the Cholesterol Vital Maintenance formula be used with a prescription cholesterol medicine?
25) Can Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex Agnus-Castus) be used with hormonal therapies?
26) Many formulas contain licorice, I have high blood pressure. Does this pose a problem form my condition?
27) What is the equivalent dose of Green Tea to equal one cup of Green Tea and what is the caffeine content?
28) Can St. John’s Wort be used with an SSRI (serotonin re-uptake inhibitor such as Prozac)?
29) What is the percentage of Oleuropein in your Olive Leaf products?
30) How do I read the expiration date on your products?
31) Are your Kava Kava products made from the root only?
32) Are there any herb/drug interactions that I should be concerned about when using herbs?
33) What are the contraindications, side effects, or interactions of herbs with pharmaceuticals?
34) Please explain Gaia Herbs “Whole Plant Standardization Process”.
35) Do you test for heavy metals and do you do microbial testing?
36) If I have known allergies, should I be concerned about any allergic reactions from taking herbs?
37) What is the Phyto-Cap made from?
38) What is the source of your alcohol and are your products gluten free and yeast free?
39) What does Weight to Volume ratio mean?
40) How long are herbal extracts good for?
41) What is the best way to store extracts and Phyto-Caps?
42) Why does this extract look different than the last one I bought?
43) Why does the extract inside the Phyto-Cap look separated or discolored?
44) Do I take all of the components of the Candida Cleanse simultaneously for 2 weeks or do I take each part for 2 weeks, totaling 6 weeks on the program?
45) Is it appropriate to add acidophilus to the Candida Kit?
46) With the Candida Cleanse, can I eat other foods than the ones mentioned on the foods to favor list?
47) Is it ok to use stevia or other non calorie sweeteners during the cleanse?
48) Can I use a prescription drug for Candida, such as Diflucan, in conjunction with this cleanse?
49) Will I be rid of Candida at the end of the two week program?
50) Can I take vitamins and other supplements while cleansing?
51) Should I fast while cleansing?
52) How will I know if it is working?
53) Does the Rejuve powder in the Supreme Cleanse kit act as a laxative?
54) Can I use my prescription medications such as birth control, high blood pressure medications, in conjunction with the cleanse program?
55) Can I do a cleanse program if I am sick, have the flu, etc?
56) Can I take the Red Clover Supreme at the same time as the Scudder’s Alterative?
57) Can I continue to use the program for longer than two weeks?
58) How does the Supreme Cleanse Kit work? Which areas does it cleanse?
59) Can I take the powder in something other than warm water?
60) Can the cleanses be used during pregnancy and lactation?
61) Do I take all of the products at the same time?
62) What kinds of foods can I eat while cleansing and can I eat meat?
63) Can I use the Supreme Cleanse Kit during my menses?
64) Will I experience any side effects from taking these cleansing formulas?
Click Here to Ask a Question
1) How is dosage determined?
Dosages of liquid extracts are determined through two factors:
a. Consideration is given for the concentration of the extract
b. Consideration is given for the specific use of the extract
A third factor may mitigate the recommended dose and that is the weight and constitution of the individual using the herb. If an individual is heavier or has a more robust constitution the higher range of the suggested use may be consumed. Contrary if a person weighs less or has a more fragile constitution the lower range of the suggested use should be consumed. Please keep in mind that not all brands of extracts carry the same concentration. The recommended dosages suggested in this book are therapeutic dosages and are intended to deliver the therapeutic response.
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2) How much alcohol am I taking in a dose of liquid extract?When consuming herbal extracts with a small amount of warm water, the amount of alcohol is very low indeed. Comparably, 40 drops of an extract containing 60 % alcohol in 2 ounces of warm water will be equivalent to consuming about 1/100 of a glass of wine!
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3) Can I remove the alcohol if I put the extract in boiling water?You can reduce the amount of alcohol by boiling about 3 oz of hot water, put this in a glass, then add the drops to the hot water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will evaporate off approximately 60% of the alcohol. If you are sensitive to alcohol you can take our phyto-caps or our liquid alcohol free extracts.
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4) What is the best way to consume herbal extracts?The following represents from most desired to least desired the methods of consuming herbal extracts:
• Add dosage to a small amount of warm water and take between meals as directed.
• Take drops directly into the mouth and swallow.
• Add dosage to a cup of peppermint or fennel tea
• Add dosage to a small amount of diluted fruit juice such as apple or grape.
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5) Why does it say to take my herbs with warm water?Most herbal products should be taken with a small amount of warm water, about 2 ounces, 30 min. before a meal or two hours after. This is so that the herbs can be assimilated into your body without interference from digesting food, caloric intake, etc. Warm water also helps to assimilate the herbs into the body more effectively than cold water. If warm water is not available to you, lukewarm or room temperature water is acceptable.
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6) How much warm water should I take with my extracts?About 2 ounces of water.
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7) What is the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment for herbal medicines?The recommendations for dose and duration of treatment found on our labels and in our literature are general recommendations. Your health care professional will need to be consulted for your specific needs.
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8) How much alcohol am I consuming per dose when I take a liquid extract?Very little indeed!! If an average dose of an herbal extract is 30-40 drops and the herbal preparation contains 50 % alcohol, then one is consuming 15-20 drops of alcohol with the herbal extractive matter miscible within it. This is simply much less alcohol ingested than if one were to eat a ripened piece of fruit (by virtue of the sugars in fruit that are converted to alcohol when the fruit is consumed). However if one has a background of alcohol sensitivity or cannot consume products with alcohol, then it is recommended that the alcohol-free liquid extracts or the alcohol-free liquid extracts in vegetable capsules (Liquid Phyto-Caps) be used.
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9) Are alcohol-free herbal extracts as concentrated as the alcohol extracts?Not for all companies! In fact only the most reputable companies capable of extracting first with USP grain alcohol then distilling off the alcohol and testing the finished product with HPLC instruments can claim that the alcohol free products are as concentrated as the alcohol extracts. Many companies extract the herbs for their alcohol free products with vegetable glycerin. Unfortunately, vegetable glycerin is not a good solvent and cannot effectively extract the same constituents the grain alcohol can extract.
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10) Can I combine several extracts or formulas and take them together?Because herbal preparations have specific constituents that target specific receptor sites within the body, it is important that they be taken thoughtfully. Unless specifically indicated, it is best to take one herbal preparation apart from another by allowing at least twenty minutes to pass. Many herbs do combine well together and in fact are enhanced when combined together. Herbal compounds that are scientifically formulated enable the formula to produce a result that is specific and desirable. It takes much knowledge to properly combine herbal preparations together. When unsure whether two or more single herbs or preparations may be combined together, please refer to the information contained within this book, ask an herbal professional, or space each preparation by at least twenty minutes.
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11) Can I use herbal extracts safely during pregnancy?Although there are many herbs that are safe to use during pregnancy, it is recommended on all the information in this book that the herbs should not be used during pregnancy. We do this because we believe that if you are pregnant and wish to use herbs to maintain a strong and healthy pregnancy that you consult a naturopathic doctor, licensed herbalist or licensed holistic health practitioner qualified to guide you in the safe use of herbs during pregnancy.
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12) What is the best way to take liquid herbal extracts?There are several ways to consume liquid herbal extracts safely and effectively. What follows below is a summary of some of the ways to ingest liquids with the first being the very finest:
• Add drops to a small amount of warm water.
• Place drops directly into the mouth or under the tongue.
• Add drops to a small amount of herbal tea such as peppermint or fennel.
• Add drops to a small amount of diluted juice such as grape or apple juice.
• Add drops to a vegetarian “00” capsule and swallow quickly before capsule dissolves with a small amount of warm water.
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13) Can children use herbal extracts safely?Yes! In fact liquids are the preferred method for children to consume medicinal remedies. Herbal extracts for children that have been clinically tested by naturopathic physicians have been shown to be remarkably effective. They are formulated to address specific aliments that children commonly experience and they taste great! They should not be sweetened with sugar like popular children’s remedies may be, but rather they should be formulated with gentle and pleasant tasting herbs that children truly love. To learn more about herbs for children please read “A Parent’s Guide to Children’s Herbal Care” by Dr. Mary Bove.
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14) How long should I take an herbal extract?The nature of the condition should determine the length of use of the herbal extract. If the condition is acute or is of a superficial nature, the extract may be used for a shorter period of time such as 1-3 weeks. If the condition is chronic or deeper than it is appropriate to use the extract for 3-4 months or longer. There are always exceptions and it is wise to always follow the recommendations provided on the label. Regardless of how long the extract is used please consider the following rule of thumb: If an extract is to be used for more than one week then take six days on and one day off. If an extract is used for more than six weeks then take six weeks on and one week off with a day off each week. If an extract is to be used for more than six months then take six months on and one month off with a day off each week. The periodic time off from using the herbal extract allows for the full benefit of the herb to be fully integrated into the constitution.
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15) How do I recognize the quality and concentration of herbal extractsWithout standards set by regulatory authorities governing quality and concentration, the quality and concentration of herbal products are really determined by the integrity (or lack of it) of the manufacturing companies. Here are the procedures that an herbal retailer or consumer should follow and questions that should be asked when establishing which brand to choose and use:
Establishing Quality of the Product:
• Does the manufacturer grow or purchase only certified organic and ecologically, wild-crafted and GMO free herbs?
• Are the herbs harvested at the peak of their therapeutic activity?
• Are test results available to show the bio-active integrity of the originating plant material?
• Is the bio-activity of the plant material tested before the product is harvested or purchased?
• Are microbial tests and heavy metal detection tests completed on all raw material purchased?
• Is the extraction methodology unique for each herb?
• Is the product manufactured under strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) compliance guidelines following approved SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures)?
Establishing Concentration of the Product:
• What is the procedure used to insure that the products have a consistent level of bio-activity?
• Is every batch tested to insure concentration consistency ?
• Are the products concentrated utilizing "Full Spectrum Standardization"?
• What assurances are given so that the product meets or exceeds the stated label information?
Establishing Full Label Disclosure:
• Does the label disclose whether the herbs are certified organic or ecologically wildcrafted?
• Does the label disclose the latin binomial and part of the plant used in the product?
• Does the label disclose the amount of extract and/or the amount of known active ingredients?
• Does the label disclose all added solvents, excipients, fillers, binders, etc?
• Does the label disclose a legible lot number and best buy date?
• Does the label represent the required "Supplement Facts" Box accurately?
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16) Why is there alcohol in herbal extracts?Pure grain alcohol is used to prepare herbal extracts because it functions very well as a solvent and as a preservative. The properties of alcohol enable it to effectively mobilize the constituents that are active in plants from with the plants cell wall and bring them into solution. This is simply a process of pre-digesting the plant. In this way when the extract is ingested there is 100 % absorption and 100 % bioavailability. This is so important especially if one's digestive functions are impaired or one needs a response from the herbal preparation quickly. Liquid herbal extracts work quickly. Because they do not need to move through the first pass of the liver for digestion, they enter the bloodstream immediately and affect their receptor sites within the body within minutes after consumption. Pure grain alcohol also acts as a wonderful preservative. A liquid herbal extract will remain stable for over 5 years while crude herb capsules and tablets tend to degrade very quickly. Effectiveness of herbal tablets and capsules containing dry crude herbs is minimal.
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17) How do you make your alcohol-free extracts?Gaia Herbs makes its Alcohol-Free products from the same extracts that we make within our regular line of products. Once the extract is complete, we then remove the alcohol using low-heat and low-vacuum and replace the alcohol with pure, kosher, vegetable glycerin. Our alcohol-free herbal extracts contain the same concentration (with the exception of Kava Kava and Milk Thistle) as our regular extracts. We do not extract with glycerin because glycerin is not an effective extracting menstruum for most plants. We do not flavor our alcohol-free extracts because the flavoring agents used in many commercial glycerin based products will disguise the chemistry of the herb and thus one may not benefit fully from the therapeutic value of the flavored glycerites.
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18) Why is there alcohol in liquid extracts?Gaia Herbs uses pure USP Grain Alcohol and organic corn alcohol to extract its herbs. Alcohol is a superior solvent and preservative of the vital constituents of the plant. Using alcohol to extract our herbs enables the herbal product to concentrate significantly beyond the crude (raw) herb powder state. Alcohol also is a superior carrier for the herb to pass through the cell membrane for complete absorption. The amount of alcohol used for the extraction of an herb will vary depending on the herb.
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19) How do I compare Gaia Herbs Liquid Phyto-Caps with Gaia’s Liquid extracts?You can compare standardized marker compounds, if both products are standardized. You can also compare the amount of raw material (stated on the Phyto-Cap label, under the supplement facts) used to make one capsule versus the amount used to make 30 drops or one ml of extract. This is the weight to volume ratio stated on liquid extracts that are not standardized. ( see below in question "How do I compare liquid extracts to capsules or tablets?"). Generally each Liquid Phyto-Cap contains the equivalent of 60-75 drops of liquid extracts – they are very concentrated!
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20) How do I compare Gaia’s liquid extracts with other branded liquid herbal extracts?You can compare the weight to volume ratios of each product for strength. If they are both standardized, you can compare the strength of the standardized marker compounds. You can also compare quality to see if the herbs are organic, wildcrafted, ecologically cultivated or tested for heavy metals.
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21) How do I compare liquid extracts to capsules or tablets?You can look at the weight to volume ratio.
• If you have a product with a 1:1 ratio this means that we use 1,000mg of raw plant material to make every 30 drops (or one ml ) of finished product.
• If you have a product with a 1:1.5 we use 667 mg of raw plant material to make 30 drops (one ml) of finished product.
• If you have a product with a 1:2 ratio we use 500mg of raw plant material to make one ml of finished product.
• If you have a product with a 1:3 ratio we use 333mg of raw plant material to make one ml of finished product.
You can also compare two standardized products by comparing the milligrams of the marker compounds of each product.
You can also compare quality of plant material is it organic or wild crafted and is it tested for heavy metals?
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22) Why do you have low alcohol products for Milk Thistle and Kava Kava rather than alcohol free?Due to the higher concentration of Gaia Herbs process, the constituents of Milk Thistle and Kava Kava will not stay in suspension in a pure glycerin solvent. They will precipitate out and give uneven doses of the herb. We allow a minute amount of alcohol (<5%) in these extracts to keep the extractives in an even suspension, allowing for a consistent dose.
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23) Can Thyroid Support be used with a hypothyroid medicine like Synthroid?No. It is advised to avoid using herbs if you are using a prescription medication for the same condition.
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24) Can the Cholesterol Vital Maintenance formula be used with a prescription cholesterol medicine?They should not be used together. You should consult with a professional health care practitioner, if you are currently on cholesterol medication and wish to change to a herbal formula.
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25) Can Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex Agnus-Castus) be used with hormonal therapies?Chaste Tree berry helps regulate the menstrual cycle through its influence on the pituitary gland, so it is contraindicated to take this herb with birth control pills or other hormones that also influence hormone balance.
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26) Many formulas contain licorice, I have high blood pressure. Does this pose a problem form my condition?Licorice is added to many formulas, as a harmonizer, in a very small amount, less than 10 % of the formula. This is not enough licorice to raise your blood pressure. You would need to take over 6.6mls (over 200 drops or over 1,000mg of licorice) per day of our single liquid extract of licorice, standardized to 10% glycyrrhizin, to raise your blood pressure.
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27) What is the equivalent dose of Green Tea to equal one cup of Green Tea and what is the caffeine content?Based on the average of 80 to 106 mg of polyphenols per one cup of green tea, 35 drops of the liquid drop extract, is approximately equal to one cup of green tea, this contains approx. 8mg of caffeine. One phyto-cap is equal to one and three quarter cups of green tea and contains approximately 20mg of caffeine.
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28) Can St. John’s Wort be used with an SSRI (serotonin re-uptake inhibitor such as Prozac)?No. These drugs are designed to influence the serotonin levels by allowing more uptake at the cellular level. St. John’s Wort also influences serotonin levels, so these treatments can interfere with each other. If you want to wean off your medication, you will have to do this under the care of your health care professional.
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29) What is the percentage of Oleuropein in your Olive Leaf products?The percentage of Oleuropein in the Olive Leaf Phyto-Cap is 10%. Two liquid Phyto-Caps contain 500mg of Olive Leaf standardized to 50mg of Oleuropein. The alcohol liquid drop extract has a weight to volume ratio of 1:2 this means that we use 500mg of raw herb material to make every 30 drops of finished product, this product is not standardized.
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30) How do I read the expiration date on your products?The exp date is indicated by the last 4 digits, for example, 300 620500 0610 300=the product # (Elderberry in this case), this is followed by a space , 620500=computer code #, 0610= exp date June 2010. There is a space before the last 4 digitis to separate it from the lot #.
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31) Are your Kava Kava products made from the root only?Gaia Herbs uses only the Kava Kava root and no above ground parts of Kava Kava, for all Kava Kava products. Specifically, Kava Kava has a root stump and lateral roots, we use the lateral roots. The roots are imported whole (no powdered material is used) from the island of Vanuatu in the South Pacific, we have a close business relationship with the native growers there. “Whole plant standardization” is a proprietary term meaning that we do not alter (add or remove) any of the original plant compounds when standardizing, (see question 34) the only plant parts used are those listed in the supplement facts.
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32) Are there any herb/drug interactions that I should be concerned about when using herbs?There certainly may be interactions between prescription drugs and herbs. We suggest that if you are currently using a prescription drug that you consult your medical doctor or a naturopathic physician before taking herbs. Throughout history and in cultures all over the world, herbs have been used safely as medicine. Herbal medicines have produced relatively few incidences of harm when used intelligently and as recommended. Also herbal medicines have a long history of producing effective results without the harmful side effects that prescriptive drugs produce.
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33) What are the contraindications, side effects, or interactions of herbs with pharmaceuticals?For herb drug interactions, go to the home page on our web site and click on education, then type in the herb and go to interactions. For formulas do the same for each individual herb in the formula.
When using herbs and pharmaceutical medicines there are several types of interactions that may occur:
• Certain herbs may decrease the bioavailability of pharmaceuticals.
• Certain herbs may increase the bioavailability of pharmaceuticals.
• Certain herbs may protect against adverse effects from pharmaceuticals.
• Certain herbs may be incompatible with pharmaceuticals.
As a general rule you may follow the following guidelines:
• If there is no contraindication with the herb and the pharmaceutical(s), separate the use of herbs and drugs by at least 2-3 hours. Inform your doctor if you are taking herbs and pharmaceutical medications.
• Be aware of herb/drug incompatibilities. Inform your health care practitioner concerning any herbs and supplements that you are taking. As well as using our comprehensive web site, you can consult references such as “Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions”, by Francis Brinker, N.D., and “The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety” by Kerry Bone and Simon Mills, publisher Churchill Livingstone.
Some contraindications:
• Pregnancy and lactation, there is very little research in this area.
• Using herbs and pharmaceutical medications to treat the same condition.
• The following prescription medications and classes of pharmaceuticals have a special caution because they typically have a narrow dosage range. They are contraindicated with herbs except under the direction and supervision of your doctor; Digoxin, Protease Inhibitors, Anti-coagulants and Anti-seizure medications.
Side Effects: Side effects are rare, but can occur. Often it is simply the result of an inappropriate herb for the individuals constitution, an inappropriate dosage, or an inappropriate time of taking the herb. Stop taking the herb if you are having a side effect or if you feel at all uncomfortable. The most common side effects are nausea, headache, and rash. You should call your physician if symptoms are serious.
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34) Please explain Gaia Herbs “Whole Plant Standardization Process”.Gaia uses a process of standardization called the Whole Plant Standardization Process. TM Our full spectrum standardization process utilizes the following techniques and procedures:
• Harvest crop at optimal times for therapeutic peak of active constituents.
• Extract with optimal efficiency utilizing the correct methods specific for each herb.
• Concentrate the finished extract utilizing low-heat and low- vacuum process.
• Measure the levels of the known active constituent utilizing HPLC (High Pressure Liquid Chromatography), GC-Mass (Gas Chromatography), UV Spectrometry, TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography), and organoleptic (visual and taste) observations.
These procedures of full spectrum standardization enable us to extract the wholistic properties of every herb while meeting batch to batch consistency. Never do we purify or isolate any properties of the herbs. We do not use harsh chemicals or solvents in our standardization process. Although some companies may claim that standardization of herbal products is inferior, we have demonstrated that standardization can be accomplished wholistically and improve upon the whole plant extraction process by confirming batch to batch consistency and concentration of product. No other liquid extract company can claim this level of authentification of its finished product.
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35) Do you test for heavy metals and do you do microbial testing?Yes, we test every finished product for mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic. Gaia herbs subsidizes the cost of a full time PhD position at Clemson University where all of our products are tested for heavy metal speciation.
We also test every product for e-coli , salmonella, yeast and mold as well as total bacteria count.
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36) If I have known allergies, should I be concerned about any allergic reactions from taking herbs?Allergic reactions to herbs are rare, but they do happen. One of the few herbs that occasionally cause allergic reactions is Lomatium. It may cause skin rashes with some individuals and is best avoided if you have a sensitive constitution.
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37) What is the Phyto-Cap made from?The Phyto-Cap is made from cellulose from pine bark.
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38) What is the source of your alcohol and are your products gluten free and yeast free?We use 190 proof alcohol derived from GMO free corn The alcohol is gluten free since there is no protein, left in 190 proof alcohol. We also use 190 proof certified organic GMO-free corn alcohol for all products that are listed as certified organic.
Our products are vegetarian, yeast free and gluten free. The Wild Oats milky seed, sold as a single herb and in some formulas, is now considered gluten free, if there is no cross pollination or contamination during processing. The Oats are grown on our organic farm and there are no wheat fields in the area, there is also no contamination with gluten containing products during manufacture.
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39) What does Weight to Volume ratio mean?This is the most common way to measure the strength of a liquid herbal extract or tincture. The number on the left represents the amount of plant material used to produce the extract, while the number on the right represents the weight of the solvent used. Gaia's ratios are between 1:1 and 1:3. Many other liquids are between 1:4 and 1:10. A 1:1 ratio means that 8lbs of raw herb is used per every one gallon of alcohol. (One gallon of alcohol weighs 8 lbs). A 1:2 ratio means that 8 lbs of herb is used per every 2 gallons of alcohol and a 1:3 ratio means that 8 lbs of herb is used per every 3 gallons of alcohol.
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40) How long are herbal extracts good for?Alcohol based extracts have a five year expiration date and alcohol free extracts have a three year expiration date. Our Liquid Phyto-Caps carry a three year expiration date. This is based on the date of manufacture. They do not need to be refrigerated to stay viable.
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41) What is the best way to store extracts and Phyto-Caps?The best way to store extracts is in a cool, dry place, out of the sun, like a cupboard or pantry. They do not need to be refrigerated, but should be kept from high temperatures. The Phyto-Caps should not be refrigerated and should also be stored in a cool dry place, away from extremes of temperature.
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42) Why does this extract look different than the last one I bought?Levels of chemical constituents vary quite naturally. Constituents are affected by growing conditions such as soil, weather, and altitude and by factors such as age of the plant, when it was harvested and where the seed came from. This means that each batch of extract will be slightly different. Extracts that are standardized will have consistent levels of the marker compound, but will require varying amounts of plant material to get that level. This may affect the appearance of the extract.
There is also the fact that liquid extracts are solutions, which means that the dissolved substance (solute) may fall out of solution, especially considering the high concentration of our extracts. If this happens, you will see small particles of plant constituents in the extract.. Vigorous shaking will often cause the solute to go back into solution.
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43) Why does the extract inside the Phyto-Cap look separated or discolored?Occasionally some natural separation may occur with the Phyto-Cap products after encapsulation. This does not alter the quality of the product.
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44) Do I take all of the components of the Candida Cleanse simultaneously for 2 weeks or do I take each part for 2 weeks, totaling 6 weeks on the program?Each part is to be taken during the same 2 weeks, at the appropriate time of day. Your day might look like this:
Wake up. Take Vital Cleanse Powder. Eat breakfast. A few hours later at 10 a.m., take the Vital Cleanse Black Walnut/Coptis formula. Twenty minutes before lunch, take the Vital Cleanse Sweetish Bitters. Then in the afternoon, at 4 p.m., take your Vital Cleanse Black Walnut/Coptis formula again. Twenty minutes before dinner, take the Vital Cleanse Sweetish Bitters again.
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45) Is it appropriate to add acidophilus to the Candida Kit?Acidophilus or probiotics are very compatible with the Candida Kit they will support friendly bacteria, helping the body to establish a healthy balance of intestinal flora.
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46) With the Candida Cleanse, can I eat other foods than the ones mentioned on the foods to favor list?Absolutely. The guidelines in the brochure are meant to give an idea or a framework in which to address Candida effectively. Encourage a common sense and creative approach. Easy to digest foods are also important, such as slightly steamed vegetables and vegetable proteins. The most important thing to remember is to eliminate sugar, or sugar forming foods such as carbohydrates during the cleanse. Favor vegetables, non-yeasted or fermented foods, proteins and healthy fats. Each person will have their own specific dietary requirements which we cannot elaborate on here.
Please look for a cookbook or dietary reference book specific to eliminating Candida.
Here are some general guidelines:
• Foods to avoid: sugars and sweeteners of any kind (except Stevia), yeasts, refined white flour products (bread, pasta, pastries), chocolate, soda, alcohol, coffee, nuts (peanuts), fatty foods, shellfish, vinegar, fermented products including miso, fruit juice, dried fruit, fresh fruits (initially), dairy (milk, cheese, cottage cheese, ice cream,) gluten grains (wheat, rye, oats), corn and tobacco. Avoid all known or suspected allergens, since allergies can weaken your immune system and provide a more hospitable environment for the yeast.
• Foods to favor: Steamed vegetables, vegetable soups and stews, salads, organic fresh vegetable juices, clean drinking water, whole grains such as brown rice, millet, amaranth, quinoa; fresh garlic, onions and ginger; fresh fish, chicken (antibiotic free), turkey, lamb, wild meats; avocado, eggplant, olives, vegetarian meats, nut butters such as almond, cashew, tahini, and sunflower; adzuki beans, flax oil, flax seed meal, almonds, fresh lemons, green vegetables (chlorophyll), kelp and other seaweeds;
• Foods suggested in small amounts: Ghee or clarified butter, eggs, olive oil, beans, tofu, sprouted un yeasted gluten-free bread, cultured, sugar free yogurt including probiotics.
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47) Is it ok to use stevia or other non calorie sweeteners during the cleanse?Stevia is the only non calorie sweetener that is recommended. Stevia is made from the dried leaves of the plant Stevia rebaudiana and is a natural, non synthetic sweetener.
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48) Can I use a prescription drug for Candida, such as Diflucan, in conjunction with this cleanse?No, either choose the herbal approach or the pharmaceutical approach, but do not combine them.
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49) Will I be rid of Candida at the end of the two week program?You should be in balance and not have Candida symptoms after completing the two week program, but you will still need to make wise food choices to maintain your health. The kit can be repeated for another 2 weeks if you or your health care professional think that it is necessary.
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50) Can I take vitamins and other supplements while cleansing?Although it is best to discontinue the use of supplements while cleansing, there would be no harm in continuing to use supplements while doing these cleansing programs.
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51) Should I fast while cleansing?It is not recommended to fast. Eat simple, wholesome foods consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and plenty of warm water.
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52) How will I know if it is working?You will feel an increase in well being and energy, improved digestion and elimination and an improvement in the appearance of your skin.
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53) Does the Rejuve powder in the Supreme Cleanse kit act as a laxative?No. This is not a laxative formula. Its primary function is to improve the digestive and eliminative processes of the body.
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54) Can I use my prescription medications such as birth control, high blood pressure medications, in conjunction with the cleanse program?This would be best to discuss with your physician. Although the cleanse programs are very safe and gentle, in order to anticipate any possible side effect or interaction, it would be in your best interest to discuss this with your health practitioner.
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55) Can I do a cleanse program if I am sick, have the flu, etc?No this is not a good time to cleanse, since the body is stressed with an illness, wait until you have recovered.
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56) Can I take the Red Clover Supreme at the same time as the Scudder’s Alterative?It is best to separate them; however, if time is an issue, they can be taken at the same time.
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57) Can I continue to use the program for longer than two weeks?You may continue the Supreme Cleanse Kit program for up to 4 weeks. It can be used at the beginning of each season.
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58) How does the Supreme Cleanse Kit work? Which areas does it cleanse?The Supreme Cleanse kit works by supporting the natural elimination and detoxification mechanisms of the body. The herbs support digestion as well as optimize the healthy functioning of the liver ( which filters and cleanses the blood ), the lymphatic system (which transports toxins away from the blood ), the intestines and the kidneys. This is not a laxative kit, so diarrhea is not expected.
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59) Can I take the powder in something other than warm water?You can take the powder with lemon or lime juice sweetened with stevia. You can also take the powder in a small amt of water and follow this with a glass of lemon or lime juice or herbal tea, unsweetened or sweetened with stevia.
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60) Can the cleanses be used during pregnancy and lactation?No. Pregnancy and lactation are not the time to cleanse, it is a time to nourish the body.
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61) Do I take all of the products at the same time?Yes, you take all four products during the same two week period. Follow the directions for each product for the time of day.
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62) What kinds of foods can I eat while cleansing and can I eat meat?Each person will have their own dietary needs to take into consideration. Eat wholesome, fresh, unprocessed whole grains and vegetables, organic if possible. The healthier you eat, the deeper the cleanse will work. The less processed the food is, the better. Meat can be eaten, preferably at lunch time, it is best to avoid red meat and eat fish, organic chicken or turkey. Drink warm water throughout the day to facilitate the cleanse.
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63) Can I use the Supreme Cleanse Kit during my menses?It is much better to cleanse at a different time, rather than during the menses.
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64) Will I experience any side effects from taking these cleansing formulas?Some people may notice a little bloating initially while others may feel a little nauseous or have headaches. You may experience mild diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms result from the increased elimination of toxins from the body. If these symptoms are excessive, simply reduce the dose to 1/4 of the recommended dose and gradually build the dose to the full dose, as the program becomes more comfortable.
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