When it comes to health, men are often inclined to fall behind, hoping that things will take care of themselves. In addition, many men may look after their physical health, but tend to overlook emotional and mental health. Sometimes there is a subconscious belief that a man needs to ‘tough it out’ and just ‘be a man’, often leading to conditions going undiagnosed and further health issues.
Financial strain in the current economic climate can also cause stress and tensions that then bubble over into the home and inter-personal relationships. Underlying issues such as anxiety and stress can result in physical symptoms and quickly throw sensitive body systems out of balance. Prostate enlargement becomes a reality as men increase in years after age 40. In addition, although female fertility is often highlighted in the media, male sperm count and sexual function can also deteriorate with age and is just as sensitive an issue as with their female counterparts. Likewise, women are not the only one’s concerned with their appearance - most men will also admit to the fear of hair loss as they mature. These health concerns are valid ones and need to be addressed in a safe, responsible manner…
What should be done?
Men should be encouraged to chat to their GP, herbalist, homeopath or health care practitioner about the various recommended tests and procedures and undergo the required check-ups for their age group. Prostate, blood glucose, BMI, cholesterol and blood pressure levels should be checked and men are encouraged to open up to their health practitioner regarding any personal issues that may be causing difficulty and lead to symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, fatigue, weight gain, weight loss or erectile dysfunction. Exercise and nutrition are the two most important factors when it comes to preventing heart disease, obesity, diabetes and most major health complications for men (and women!). Mothers, wives, sisters and daughters have a responsibility to encourage the men in their lives to eat healthily and stay active – men’s health is a family issue!
What can be done without the risks associated with harsh medications?
In ancient years, tribal men knew the secret to staying fit and healthy – they had to ‘bring home the bacon’ – literally! With days spent hunting in the open territory, stomach problems, fatigue and other complaints were not an option. Luckily, due to the natural vegetation and flora surrounding them, they were able to use the traditional natural plant remedies passed down through generations – with great results. Stomach bush or maagpyn bossie (Pelargoneum graveolens) was used to settle stomachs, while the indigenous people of the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa used Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) to maintain joint and muscle health on long journeys. Herbs to promote male stamina and sexual prowess were an important part of the tribal medicine chest!
Luckily, today we needn’t travel to the heart of the wilderness to acquire these miracle herbs… Reputable natural health companies source these materials and through thorough knowledge, combine these ingredients for the best complimentary therapeutic uses.
To help, we have compiled a list of trusted and effective remedies that use only natural ingredients – greatly reducing the harsh risks and chances of addiction often found in OTC drugs…
Here are our top picks for Men’s Heath:
1. PROSTATE HEALTH
There are many products on the market claiming to address prostate health, however, Prostate Dr. (herbal remedy) and Prostate Relief (homeopathic remedy) work well together to address short-term symptoms as well as provide long-term support. Interestingly, Prostate Dr. contains Saw Palmetto (Sabal serrulata) - a herb with plant sterols (including beta- sitosterol) recently studied for its properties associated with promoting male sexual health, and therefore the health of the prostate gland. (Berges RR, Windeler J, Trampisch HJ, et al. “Randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of beta-sitosterol in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia”. Lancet 1995;345:1529–32.)
Prostate Dr. is a herbal remedy which is recommended for regular use in order to support the health of the prostate gland and keep symptoms at bay, whereas Prostate Relief is a homeopathic remedy that may be used safely when needed to relieve the bothersome symptoms of an enlarged prostate, including frequent urination, waking up at night and sexual difficulties. These remedies may be safely used together as required, for both long term prostate health and short term relief.
2. SEXUAL HEALTH
Stress, depression, unhealthy diet, hormonal problems, insufficient exercise and even relationship difficulties may cause sexual problems like low libido, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. This can be very distressing and needs to be dealt with in a sensitive manner.
Two highly recommended and well-known natural remedies for male sexual health, Iqawe and Fertile XY can be ordered online for privacy and convenience. Iqawe means "Warrior" or "Strong" in Xhosa and contains herbs used naturally for centuries to enhance sexual health and stamina. It uses natural ingredients to address causes of low libido and male sexual dysfunction and to improve sexual performance and pleasure. Containing natural adaptogens, aphrodisiacs and phytoceutricals, Iqawe is formulated to enhance sexual performance, desire, strengthen erections and greatly improve overall sexual and systemic health.
For those couples wanting to increase fertility, Fertile XY is the remedy of choice for men wanting to improve sperm motility and virility (with Fertile XX being the female counterpart fertility tonic and recommended for her – for greater effectiveness).
3. HAIR LOSS
Hair loss is a delicate subject for men and women – but an especially sore topic for men. Hair loss is a very common occurrence for a variety of reasons, from age to stress or simply poor diet and lack of vitamins and minerals.
As with any growing structure on the body (such as fingernails), the structure needs to be nourished. One natural remedy especially formulated to nourish the scalp and hair shaft is ReGrow Scalp Massage Oil. This miracle remedy works by using age-old ingredients such as Chamomile and Rosemary. Traces of Rosemary have been found in Egyptian tombs as this rejuvenating aromatic herb is traditionally seen as a symbol of regeneration! Used topically in ReGrow Scalp Massage Oil, this remedy has excellent astringent properties and is well known for its beneficial effect on scalp disorders and its ability to encourage healthy hair growth.
For best results, this remedy should be used with ReGrow Plus Drops – an internal remedy - containing Xanthoxylum clavaherculis, Equisetum arvense, Achillea millifolium and Ginkgo biloba (an anti-oxidant that helps to prevent free radical damage and premature aging!).
4. CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Hopefully it goes without saying, but both men and women should take care of their circulatory systems and their hearts as they mature in years. Heart disease is one of the main culprits when it comes to fatalities worldwide – and it CAN be prevented! Exercise and diet play a huge role in keeping hearts healthy, but so do adequate circulation and healthy blood pressure.
Three natural remedies designed especially with those factors in mind are Cholesto-Rite, High-Rite, and CircuLive. While High-Rite specifically supports healthy blood pressure, CircuLive promotes healthy circulation of blood around the body from tip to toe.
Cholesto-Rite addresses fat deposits in the blood stream, helping the body to breakdown adipose deposits and maintain healthy levels of cholesterol. All three of these remedies are 100% natural with no harsh side effects to the rest of the body!
5. ENERGY + STRESS
When it comes to stressing and suffering with burnout – men often tend to think they are invincible! Taking a much needed break or time out often feels impossible – after all, there are deals to be made and frontiers to conquer.
Not so. Burnout is one of the most common conditions affecting young adult males and men climbing the corporate ladder. As mentioned before, add the element of stress and anxiety to the mix and it’s no wonder the wheels come off, greatly jeopardizing careers.
For an instant pick-me-up (without the harsh side effects of energy drinks and prescription pills), Fatigue Fighter can be used to help kick start the brain and body into gear again. Taken regularly it can help to maintain energy levels needed, while still caring for your body and internal systems. It contains no caffeine or ingredients to increase heart rate, and so it is side effect free.
Another absolute must for the office desk drawer is PureCalm. This remedy is a true lifesaver when entering a board meeting or appointment with the boss, as it reduces nervousness and anxiety immediately, without leaving you sedated – so you can still pitch that great idea! Using only natural ingredients, PureCalm works at calming the nervous system gently, in an all-natural way. Contains Lemon balm, Lavender and Passionflower – a top seller and very popular remedy!
6. DIGESTION
Like with most things, as we get older our digestive systems may not be as easily fooled – certain foods and drinks can quickly cause heartburn, indigestion, cramping, nausea and upset stomachs. Unfortunately many stomach soothing conventional medications come with side effects, and some long-term effects that may still be not known. What is for sure, that it is never a good thing to take antacids, or any stomach medication for prolonged periods of time.
Luckily, nature holds the key to relief. Gastronic Dr. has been created using natural ingredients to help the process of digestion in the digestive tract and intestines. In fact, all areas of digestion, including the stomach and bowels would benefit from this remedy. Acid FreeFlux has been formulated homeopathically to quickly address acid build up in the stomach and esophagus to give relief and guard against heartburn and indigestion while Gasolve Relief works at addressing burping, bloating, excess gas and wind.
All three remedies are all natural and free of side effects, with Acid FreeFlux safe for use during pregnancy.
7. JOINT AND MUSCLE PAIN
Aches and pains in the joints and muscles can be debilitating. Many men get work related injuries, or sports injuries that tend to linger and create a lot of discomfort. Men tend to suffer with backache due to their height, while knees and ankles can also become problematic areas.
There are many anti-inflammatory medicines out there, but most come with side effects and health risks.
On the natural route, for any form of arthritis, JointEase Plus can be used to help reduce inflammation, swelling and associated pain, while helping to improve joint mobility and overall joint health. SciatiGon is a great choice when addressing sciatica and back pain, that tends to shoot down the leg while Gout Gone is a homeopathic remedy used to lessen burning pain associated with gout and build up of lactic acid in the joints.
For the man who has everything, Sports Soak Bath Crystals and RealHeal Massage Oil make a great combo for after gym sessions. Sports Soak Bath Crystals contain only natural ingredients for an uplifting and healing experience in the bath, while RealHeal Massage Oil can be used as a pre or post-sport rub to help lessen stiffness and tightness and get the blood flowing in the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
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Plumstead, Cape Town
T: +27 21 797 0198
Disclaimer: The information on this website is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure and is not a substitute for a professional consultation with a medical or health professional. Do not make any changes or additions to your prescription medicine without first consulting your doctor. Should symptoms persist, please consult your doctor.
When it comes to health, men are often inclined to fall behind, hoping that things will take care of themselves. In addition, many men may look after their physical health, but tend to overlook emotional and mental health. Sometimes there is a subconscious belief that a man needs to ‘tough it out’ and just ‘be a man’, often leading to conditions going undiagnosed and further health issues.
