Is it time to take another look at vitamin C?

By Jonathan Evans Herbal Information Specialist /Business Representative for the Herbarium Special to PRIME Vitamin C. What a vitamin! Recently, I had the opportunity to interview Andrew Saul, PhD, Co- author of "VITAMIN C: The Real Story,'' from Basic Health Publications. Dr. Saul was a joy to speak with and generated quite a bit of interest from our radio audience both with on air questions, and subsequent questions at the HERBARIUM. The book tells the story of how the controversy about vitamin C has grown and continues even as evidence of its value smacks the detractors in the face. Dr. Saul pulled no punches when outlining the history of the controversy, the political and economic influences and the intrigue, but did not do it in a malicious manner. Actually, his humor and easy going style made listening to him all the more pleasant. Best of all, the book and the information within was backed up by hard evidence, with over 40 pages of references. I did not intend this column to be a book review or critique, but I have read it twice so far and use it as a reference guide when talking about vitamin C. I strongly urge anyone who has any questions about vitamin C to pick up this book. It is easy reading and has the uses, proper dosage and safety recommendations, right at your finger tips for such conditions as atherosclerosis, cholesterol, pneumonia, blood pressure, heart disease, herpes, and yes , the big C- cancer. My original interest in writing about vitamin C had more to do with viral infections (read swine flu) and the upcoming flu season. For all the folks who are worried about the rush to get a vaccine to market in time to possibly protect the population from swine flu, here is something everyone can do in a proactive manner. The information and research is there for all to see and investigate on their own. Imagine, a relatively inexpensive supplement that can help with all these conditions and more. Instead of fighting about Obama-care, we could just look at the benefits of orthomolecular medicine, and the little miracle called vitamin C. For more about this book and others from Dr. Saul, visit his Web site at www.DoctorYourself.com. Serrapeptase and arthritis Another interesting item I recently came across is serrapeptase. It has been used in Europe as an arthritis remedy for many years. It is a proteolytic enzyme that eats the protein gunk in your bloodstream that is responsible for inflammation. Serrapeptase also digests arterial plaque, making it a powerful weapon in the fight against heart disease. When combined with vitamin C and bioflavinoids, which are anti- inflammatories and help repair blood vessel walls, you have a real powerhouse of protection. Radio show update Finally, some of you readers are also listeners to our radio program, "Herbs for Health and Healing." You may have noticed we are not on the air at this time. It was decided that the show go on hiatus for the time being. Please do not call the radio station and yell at them. We have ended the program on a good note, there is no animosity, it was our decision. You can always see us or call us at HERBARIUM for information. When we return to the airwaves, we will announce it here and at our website, www.theherbarium.com. See you next month! Jonathan Please send your questions on botanical remedies to Natures Rx : Jonathan Evans via e-mail at info@theherbarium.com, or by regular mail at The Herbarium, 264 Exchange Street, Chicopee, MA 01013