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Dr. Sears says that fish oil along with aspirin activates a powerful class of “good”
anti-inflammatory eicosanoids called “Lipoxins,” which trigger the release of growth
hormone and promote the growth of new tissue. However excess or prolonged
aspirin intake is known to cause bleeding stomach ulcers, abdominal burning,
pain, cramping, nausea, gastritis, gastrointestinal bleeding and liver toxicity. As an
alternative to aspirin you can use White willow bark and Meadowsweet (Gravel
root), known for their pain-relieving, nervine and anti-inflammatory effects. These
contains salicin, a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). Use low doses
(60-120 mg salicin) of white willow and meadowsweet in your herb tea mix or
capsulated formulas; it is slower acting than aspirin but its effect lasts longer.
The “bad” prostaglandins that are responsible for pain and inflammation
involve the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COK-2) in their synthesis; while good
prostaglandins use COK-1. Salicin acetylates the COX-2 enzyme, thereby
inhibiting the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins. It also appears to
increase the production of ferritin, an iron-binding protein that prevents iron from
inducing free radical oxidation. White willow bark also increases norepinephrine
levels, which may stimulate fat burning metabolism, and lead to weight loss.
Omega 3 fish oils exhibit profound anti-aging effects in combination with
calorie restriction. One reason being that calorie restriction increases CoQ10 which
may prevent oxidative damage to the mitochondria. Food energy is converted into
energy (ATP) for our body in the mitochondria with the aid of Coenzyme Q10.
It is found in highest concentration in the inner membrane of the mitochondrion
where it is an important part of the electron transport chain. CoQ10 serves as
an important antioxidant in both mitochondria and lipid membranes. Rice bran
contains CoQ10 and Ginkgo leaf works synergistically with CoQ10.
Common herbs and spices that halt the conversion to the “bad” eicosanoids
include: Angelica root, Dong quai, Ashitaba, Turmeric, Basil, Ginger, Cinnamon,
Rosemary, Cardamom, Cilantro, Cloves, Garlic, Parsley, Licorice, Neem,
Echinacea and Chamomile. Vitamins pro-A, A, C, E, B-2, B-3, B-6, pantothenic
acid, B-12 biotin and the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur and
zinc are all involved in essential fatty acid (EFA) metabolism. Sesame seed has
strong vitamin E activity, protects the liver from damage, normalizes blood fats
and blood pressure and regulates autoimmune function, by regulating eicosanoids
that cause inflammation, clotting and other immune imbalances.
sacHa incHi oil—Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) is the superfood of the
ancient Incas. This oil from Peru is the most powerful Omega-3 source on the
planet. Sacha inchi contains more than 84% essential fatty acids: 48% Omega-
3, 35% Omega-6 fatty acids and 9% Omega 9. Sacha Inchi oil has a mild nutty
flavor; almost like almonds and is the most easily digestible vegetable oil. We get
enough Omega 6 and 9 in our diet already, so it is the Omega 3 that is important.
Sacha inchi oil is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, reinforces the immunological
system, regulates blood glucose, is antidiabetic and reduces cholesterol, is
anticarcinogenic, helps to regulate blood pressure, and clears up eczemas, psoriasis,
acne, diabetes. Sacha Inchi seed oil, while lacking in DHA/EPA, is a substantial
source of Linolenic acid’s omega 3 and 6.