Ginkgo may protect brain against stroke damage

A stroke occurs when blood flow to brain tissues is disrupted, killing brain cells by robbing them of oxygen and nutrients. The most likely cause is blockage of an artery in the neck or head. When a portion of the brain is damaged, patients are often left with some disability, such as paralysis, loss of […]

The Brain-Gut-Skin Connection Series: Happiness leads to a beautiful skin

I traveled extensively in the past few weeks.  Usually, when traveling, I try to take time to relax through yoga and meditation and control my stress level.  However, in this round of trips, I became negligent in keeping up with my exercise routine.  And, this morning, two pimples popped up on my chin.  This is […]

The Brain-Gut-Skin Connection Series: Evidence

intake contributes to healthy aging

In the previous post, we learned about the brain-gut-skin theory proposed by two dermatologists, John Stokes and Donald Pillsbury, in 1930s.  Here is the gist of the theory: stress produces stress hormones, which leads to low acid production in your stomach, which leads to the changes in your gut microbiota population, which leads to local […]

Using Boswellia to combat inflammation and muscle pain

Boswellia

Boswellia is a large branching tree native to India, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. The trunk is tapped for its resin, which is purified and used in herbal preparations. The resin, known as frankincense, has been used in religious and cultural ceremonies since antiquity.

Your genes may influence gut bacteria that cause inflammatory bowel disease

Gut microbiota is the name given today to the microbe population living in our intestine. Our gut microbiota contains tens of trillions of microorganisms, including at least 1000 different species of known bacteria with more than 3 million genes (150 times more than human genes). Microbiota can, in total, weigh up to 2 kg. One […]

The Brain-Gut-Skin Connection Series: Introduction

You must have noticed that your acne tends to flares up around stressful times—before a big test, a big meeting or during travel.  Often, the skin problems are accompanied with bowel movement problems.  I have experienced the phenomenon all my life and have heard many similar experiences from others.   For a longest time, I have […]

One hour of moderate exercise a day enough to counter health risks from prolonged sitting

exercise

Lack of physical activity has become a known risk factor for metabolic diseases and early death ever since a study back in 1953 showing that London bus drivers were at greater risk of heart disease compared to bus conductors. It is estimated that that more than 5 million people die globally each year as a […]

Gut microbiota influences the accessibility to your brain

Our brain is well protected by a barrier termed the “blood-brain barrier (BBB).” The blood–brain barrier is a highly selective permeability barrier that separates the circulating blood from the brain extracellular fluid (BECF) in the central nervous system (CNS). The stuff that can pass through the blood-brain barrier are highly selective including water, some gases, lipid […]

Seattle Beauty™ Tip: Forever 29 with miracle herb Astragalus

forever 29

Ok, I admit I lied – at least twice – as being 29 when being well passed twenty-nine. Twenty-nine is that magic age for woman when we are at our most attractive and charming with our still youthful, but acne free and not yet wrinkled complexion combined with our maturity, confidence, just enough wisdom gained […]