Turns out that many of the tested tablets contained potential allergens that weren’t listed in the ingredients, while others didn’t contain the supposed active ingredient at all. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Most people think that herbal supplements are always safe to use. They’re natural, so how harmful can they be? That’s usually true, if you know what you’re taking. But what if someone tried to sell you pure gold, while it is actually gold painted bricks?

The New York State attorney general’s office claimed to have tested store-brand supplements from Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreens, and GNC. Turns out that many of the tested tablets contained potential allergens that weren’t listed in the ingredients, while others didn’t contain the supposed active ingredient at all [1].

So in actual fact, people with allergies to those hidden ingredients are at risk. As a result, the retailers were accused for selling potentially dangerous herbal supplements, and were demanded to remove the tested products from their shelves.

Such a case is not pleasant, although somewhat expected, since supplements aren’t minded as drugs, and therefore aren’t put through the same FDA strict requirements that drugs are.

So the main question is, how can we make sure that the natural remedies we purchase really contain what it says on the bottle?
Well, there are several ways. First, various companies and scientists conduct clinical studies on natural remedies. For instance, a study showed that yerba maté (a plant originally from the subtropical region of South America) beverages and supplements may be helpful in fighting obesity [2]. A different study examined how an antiviral natural remedy decreased viral symptoms in individuals infected with the Human Papilomavirus, Herpes, Epstein Barr virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Hepatitis C virus [3].
Secondly, there are few non profit groups, such as NSF and USP that certify various supplements in terms of their ingredients, methods of manufacture, etc. The companies whose supplements meet the group’s standards are allowed to carry the official group’s seal on their labels. Therefore searching for those labels is a fairly good indication for the supplements quality. However, note that one cannot count solely on third party supplement certification, since there are other factors that should be taken into consideration. For instance, this certification procedure is very expensive, therefore new companies, with excellent efficient supplements, and low budget, can’t yet afford such a procedure.

Even though supplements are OTC (over the counter), they can negatively interact with other medication you are taking. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

And lastly, you must always consult your physician before administering a natural supplement. Even though supplements are OTC (over the counter), they can negatively interact with other medication you are taking. In addition, physicians are usually familiar with different brands in terms of efficiency and safety.

This recent event which occurred isn’t very encouraging, however, just because it occurred, doesn’t mean supplements are bad for you. Basically, it means you must be extra careful while purchasing supplements. Saying that, it is important you follow the three methods outlined above in order to ensure the quality of your supplements, and your health.
References:

1. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/02/03/new-york-attorney-general-targets-supplements-at-major-retailers/
2. Gambero, Alessandra, and Marcelo L. Ribeiro. “The Positive Effects of Yerba Maté (Ilex paraguariensis) in Obesity.” Nutrients 7.2 (2015): 730-750.
3. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Viruses are significant factors with regard to population changes throughout history. For instance, history could be different, had knowledge of the smallpox vaccine discovered in China a thousand years ago reach Europe (and America) on time. Smallpox plague killed a third of Europe’s population in the 14th century. It was responsible for the fall of at least three empires around the world, almost destroyed the entire population of South America and by the end of the 18th century killed more than 400,000 people each year in Europe [1,2].

The latter is just a small example to viruses various impacts during history. It was up to extraordinary people along history, to bring medical revolution.
Vaccination means immune protection.
Vaccines protect against dangerous infectious diseases that can cause great suffering, severe disability and even death. They can be used to prevent the spread of infection, as well as treat current infections by effectively activating the immune system [3,4].

How does a vaccine work?

Vaccination relies on the body’s ability to defend itself better against pathogens, if exposed to them in the past. When a deadly virus encounters a person for the first time, the virus does not allow the immune system to adapt to it and fight it.

Vaccination relies on the body’s ability to defend itself better against pathogens, if exposed to them in the past. When a deadly virus encounters a person for the first time, the virus does not allow the immune system to adapt to it and fight it. Therefore, the disease will break out in all its fury, not allowing the body to defend itself, making it a losing battle [5].
We have come to realize that, injecting weakened viruses puts our immune system in an advantage, a way for the body to recognize it and deal with it better in the future, and, although the disease does erupt as a result of the vaccine itself (containing the virus, even if it is weakened), it causes very mild symptoms, if at all.

Vaccination is safe and effective.

All vaccines undergo long and careful review by scientists, doctors, and the federal government to make sure they are safe. And if that is not enough, in the United States, all vaccines must go through extensive testing to show that it works and that it is safe before the FDA will approve it.

The HPV vaccine is a very important vaccine developed recently. This vaccine prevents infection with certain strains of HPV that causes, among other health problems, cervical cancer [6].

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2.

Amadeus, the company that developed the HPV vaccine, is now developing a Herpes vaccination, or to be more accurate, HSV-2.

The vaccine has just completed phase 1 vaccine trial, and is now about to enter phase 2. Results of the phase 1 trial showed that the new herpes vaccine produced an immune response in 95% of the humans it was tested in [7].

Currently, the vaccine is destined to treat people who are already infected with HSV-2, however, over time it will be tested whether the vaccine also works to prevent the spread of the virus.

In term of natural treatment, there are two effective and clinically proved products on the market called Novirin and Gene- Eden- VIR [8]. For more information, Click here: http://www.buy-gene-eden.com/

Although this vaccination development seems promising, we must not be complacent. The vaccine in question is against HSV-2 and not HSV-1, and in rare cases HSV-1 may also cause genital herpes.

Moreover, it will take still a while until the vaccination passes further testing and gains FDA approval. So we must continue taking responsibility to prevent further spreading of the virus.

References:
1. D. Littman RJ, Littman ML. The Athenian plague: smallpox. Proceedings of the American Philological Association. 1969; 100:261-75.
2. E. Miller, G. 1980. Discussion: times, places, and persons, p. 109-114. In A. M. Lilienfeld (ed.), Aspects of the history of epidemiology. The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore.
3. Neighmond, Patti (2010-02-07). “Adapting Vaccines For Out Aging Immune Systems” Morning Edition (NPR).
4. Immunization Action Coalition, Top Ten Reasons to Protect Your Child by Vaccinating
5. “Vaccine Overview” (PDF). Smallpox Fact Sheet. Retrieved 2008-01-02.
6. news.com.au – “Professor Ian Frazer is developing vaccines for herpes simplex and cervical cancer.” Published on October 03, 2014.
7. ProactiveInvestors.com.au – “Admedus vaccine for herpes has success; moves to next clinical trial.” Published on October 2, 2014.
8. Polansky, H., Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published on August 12, 2013.

As the number of latent herpes viruses increase in the brain, they affect the function of brain cells, by for example causing hormonal imbalances that in turn leads to depression. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Familiar with those mornings when you feel blue or sad? It is a part of life, and is very common.

The good thing is that those feelings usually pass within a couple of days, only to help us appreciate our joyful periods in our life. However, when you experiences depression, it interferes with your daily life and causes you pain as well as for those who care about you. Depression is a common and serious illness [1].

Depression has a major effect on the body’s health, and even more important, many studies have shown that depression damages the immune system which eventually may cause the body to be more susceptible to latent infections [2-3].

Depression has a major effect on the body’s health, and even more important, many studies have shown that depression damages the immune system which eventually may cause the body to be more susceptible to latent infections [2-3].

But before we begin, let me quickly remind you the meaning of a “latent infection”. A latent infection is caused by viruses found in the human body in a latent state. These viruses can remain dormant and hidden from the immune system for years, only to erupt later without warning [4].

So in a matter of fact, any weakening of the immune system only serves to increase viral symptoms, which, in turn, increases depression [5].

There are various viruses which cause latent infections, while the “famous” ones being herpes, and HPV, which also cause Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s).

But wait, It doesn’t end there, what if I told you that latent infections may also cause depression? Sound crazy, but according to various studies, it is true [3].

Herpes virus it mostly infects a type of cell called an epithelial cell.

For example, our skin is an epithelial cell. Once a person is infected the virus copies itself, and uses nerves to travel to the brain [7]. Once in the brain, the virus establishes a latent infection, kinda like “falling asleep” in your brain [4].

As the number of latent herpes viruses increase in the brain, they affect the function of brain cells, by for example causing hormonal imbalances that in turn leads to depression.

As the number of latent herpes viruses increase in the brain, they affect the function of brain cells, by for example causing hormonal imbalances that in turn leads to depression.

All these changes can introduce a vicious cycle that’s tough to break without treatment for both depression and any other diseases.
It is similar to entering a feed forward situation where any weakening of the immune system only serves to increase the viral damages, and therefore, increases depression [3].
The good news is that depression treatment is often a “two-for-one”, by treating the depression, you can also improve your overall health. If you or someone close to you are experiencing depression, talk with your doctor about treatment.

In addition to antidepressants and talk therapy, exercise may help.
The two-for-one treatment may work the other way round too- treating latent infections may help treating depression.

There are various treatments for latent infections, depending on type of virus you are infected with. However, if someone is infected by several viruses, it is quite a bummer taking several medications, each one for a different condition.
But wait, it turns out that there is a single treatment for all types of viruses- Gene-Eden-VIR and Novirin which are natural antiviral dietary supplements.

Their formula contains five natural ingredients: Selenium, Camellia Sinesis Extract, Quercetin, Cinnamomum Extract, and Licorice Extract.

They activate the imune system and helps it target latent viruses more efficiently therefore, targeting all latent viruses occupied in the body.

To date, Gene-Eden-VIR and Novirin are the only natural antiviral products on the market with published clinical studies that support their claims, making them safe to use! [6]
It is known that happiness is the best treatment for any condition. William James once said, “The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind” [8]. At the end of the day, our health and well being is only up to us, and under our own responsibility. A mans merit is measured by his ability to get out of difficult and tough situations in life, and deal with them.

References:
1. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). American Psychiatric Association. 2013.
2. Chen MH1, Wei HT, Su TP, Li CT, Lin WC, Chang WH, Chen TJ, Bai YM. Risk of depressive disorder among patients with herpes zoster: a nationwide population-based prospective study. Psychosom Med. 2014 May;76(4):285-91.
3.Wang X1, Zhang L2, Lei Y2, Liu X2, Zhou X3, Liu Y3, Wang M3, Yang L4, Zhang L4, Fan S3, Xie P3. Meta-analysis of infectious agents and depression. Sci Rep. 2014 Mar 31;4:4530.

4.Villarreal, Luis P. (2005). Viruses and the evolution of life. Washington, ASm Press.

5. WebMD.com – Depression Health Center – How Depression Affects Your Body. Last updated on May 31, 2014.

6. Polansky, H., Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published on August 12, 2013. cbcd.net/Gene-Eden-VIR-Clinical-Study.php

7.James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005) Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 2-3.
8. William James, US Pragmatist philosopher & psychologist (1842 – 1910)

Two pharmacutical companies combined resources in order to develop a vaccination against Herpes Virus

The Herpes type 2 morbidity rate for teens and young adults is tremendously high, however, if enough people take an active role in intervention and preventative treatment, the rate could drop significantly.

Yet, to date, there are no FDA approved vaccines against the genital herpes virus. Which is pretty absurd considering the fact that so many people are infected with herpes. To be more specific, about one out of every six people aged 14 to 49 years have genital herpes [1].

Development of a vaccine or specific drug is a very long and expensive process, which requires many approvals along the way in order to obtain the safest and most effective product.

As I grew up, I was always told that two is always better than one, and that’s true regarding all areas of life. So when two pharmaceutical companies decide to join forces in order to develop a vaccine for herpes, I understand can why, as well as praise their efforts to do so.

Both companies, pharmaceutical firm Sanofi Pasteur and biotech firm Immune Design chose to work together in order to develop an effective Herpes type 2 vaccine [2].

Both companies, pharmaceutical firm Sanofi Pasteur and biotech firm Immune Design chose to work together in order to develop an effective Herpes type 2 vaccine [2].

Although they both have vaccines in early testing , they still decided to combine their resources in order to be able to succeed where other companies have failed.

But wait, how shall we treat Herpes until a vaccine is developed? Here’s a thought- how about treatment based on natural ingredients?

It turns out that there are only two natural antiviral products which have been clinically proven effective: Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR [3].
Apparently, Herpes virus can remain latent in the body, which is basically a “sleepy state”. In this state, the virus does not cause any health problems and the infected person doesn’t even know he is infected [4]!

The formula of these natural antiviral products was designed to help the immune system target the “sleepy” herpes.

Until a vaccine is developed, our main goal is to treat people who have been infected, and prevent disease transmission for people who have not yet been infected.

In order to do so, we must show responsibility by being aware to all current treatments on the market.

Reference:
1. CDC.com – Genital Herpes – CDC Fact Sheet. Last updated on July 1, 2014.
cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes.htm
2. Taylor, P. Sanofi to work with Immune Design on herpes vaccine. Published October 17, 2014. pmlive.com/pharma_news/sanofi_to_work_with_immune_design_on_herpes_vaccine_607263
3. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013. scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=36101#.U-x7BeOSz90
4. Nahmias, André J., and William E. Josey. “Herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2.” Viral infections of humans. Springer US, 1984. 351-372.‏