Our purpose is not to hinder the physiological processes of the organism. Ours is a holistic approach. An approach that encourages the ristoring of the physical balance, by facing the causes as efficiently as possible and by ensuring a fast relief of all the symptoms.
Symptoms and relief
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Skin
The skin is one of the largest organs of the human body: in fact, if stretched out completely it can reach 2 square metres and in terms of weight it makes up 16% of the total body weight. Its main function is to protect organs and internal tissues from aggressions of the “world outside” and therefore constitutes a physical barrier covering the entire body surface. It plays a fundamental role in protecting the body from heat and cold (thermoregulatory function), from injuries and from aggressions of external pathogenic agents. Last but not least, it is seat of nerve endings of the sense of touch.
The surface of the skin is not uniform: it has a very complex design that varies due to the presence of parallel patterns along its surface that determine, particularly on the fingertips, typical figurations (called “fingerprints”) that vary from individual to individual. The skin is formed by two layers: the epidermis and the dermis. In the human species, skin colour depends on many variables (thickness of the corneous layer, level of blood perfusion, presence and optical absorption of melanin, vitamin A dimer, hemoglobin). For this reason, colour varies not only according to the ethnical group but also with individuals and, even though in small nuances, it also changes in different body regions of the same individual.
The epidermis is the outer part of the skin, formed by several layers of cells, of which the most external ones are basically dead but resistant to external agents. The principal functions of this layer of skin are: to form a physical barrier against external agents; prevent dehydration of the body; prevent penetration of bacteria or other pathogenic agents; protect the body from sunburns by means of special cells called melanocytes, which produce a protein called melanin, responsible for skin coloration; rapidly repair the skin in case of injuries.
The dermis is the layer right under the epidermis. Its principal function is to support and nourish the skin. In fact, it contains blood vessels carrying nutrients to the skin itself, as well as the sebaceous and sweat glands, in charge of regulating the body temperature; nerve endings that receive impulses coming through the epidermis; hair roots.
The skin is a very delicate organ that can incur several problems, either injuries or irritations. The most frequent are pressure sores, ulcerations, burns, injuries, bruises, erythema, abrasions, cuts, etc. The skin undoubtedly performs essential functions for the health and well-being of the entire organism: it is therefore important to maintain its integrity and functionality adopting correct hygiene habits that include specific cleaners and, in case of pathologic events, using appropriate natural remedies.
Staying outdoors, particularly during the Summer season, exposes the skin to the attack of a wide range of insects, a situation also favoured by the type clothing worne when temperatures rise. Insects reappear after Winter at all altitudes, causing annoying skin lesions. Insects commonly come across can be divided into two categories: insects that sting, such as bees and wasps, and insects that bite, such as mosquitoes, ticks and horseflies.
The first category of insects penetrate the skin with their sting, injecting poison that contains irritant substances which can potentially trigger allergic reactions; biting insects, instead, are characterized by an allergen free saliva and do not usually cause anaphylactic reactions but only welts of different sizes: itching, inflamed, edematous and at times painful swellings.
Whereas in case of mosquito, tick or horsefly bites the most serious complication to be expected can be dermatitis, i.e. a localized skin inflammation, bee and wasp stings can lead to much more serious consequences. Besides local harm, with reddening, swelling and pain, a possibile reaction can be anaphylactic shock, a systemic allergic phenomenon, which in extreme cases can lead to death for cardiovascular failure.
Typical symptoms of this serious problem are hot flushes in the face, intense itching, brochospams, lowered blood pressure and dizziness, sweating, pallor, swelling of the face: in such cases timely action is essential and seeking first aid at the nearest hospital may be necessary.
Certain insects can cause direct transmission of infectious diseases: for instance ticks can carry Rickettsiosis or Borelliosis, whereas mosquitoes can cause trypanosomiasis, malaria, yellow fever, etc.
Treatment of insect bites using conventional medicine
Even if it is good practice to try and prevent insect bites using “physical” barriers, such as appropriate clothing ( long socks during excursions through mountain woods, gardening gloves when working outdoors), as well as insect repellant sprays, mosquito nets, electrically heated mats, it is still possible to be bitten or stung by some insect.
Quite often, in fact, these defensive systems are ineffective or too short-lasting and can lead to allergic reactions or photosensitization. For this reason, in case of insect bites it is strongly recommended not to scratch the skin so as to prevent further complications, inflammations or suprainfections. Remedies that conventional medicine offer are aimed at the following:
for local treatment of welts: anti-inflammatory and anaesthetic creams; cortisone-based creams in case of allergic reactions, to calm acute symptoms;
for systemic treatment, in case of very intense pain OTC analgesics are typically used; in case of anaphylactic reaction, antihistamines for oral administration, as they are ineffective when applied topically they are ineffective, causing photosensitization and possibly contact dermatitis, as well.
The above-mentioned remedies, however, are not free from side-effects and contraindications. As regards cortisone-based creams for local use, these are strong immunosuppressants and therefore weaken the organism’s natural defenses even more, exposing it to the risk of infections – particularly viral ones. Even the use of antihistamines, as is well known, is not free from contraindications, as these medicines often cause the typical rebound side effect. Hence, the need for a natural and effective approach.
Nature can help you in case of insect bites
A natural and effective approach
To overcome the annoying symptoms of insect bites it is necessary to adopt a truly valid approach in terms of efficacy, with the association of specific plant active constituents and the extraordinary antimicrobial properties of Grapefruit Seed Extract.
GSE and insect bites
As to the efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) as a broad spectrum antimicrobial, Laboratories and Institutes worldwide have proven that GSE is active against over 800 bacterial strains (both Gram+ and Gram-), as well as against countless viruses and over 100 strains of yeasts and moulds.
Numerous testimonies confirm its validity and in terms of both efficacy and speed of action it remains unrivalled in nature. These features, together with the even more unique characteristic of not having a negative impact on intestinal microbial flora, as confirmed by a study published in the ““Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine” Vol. 5 n°3, 1990, make it a really extraordinary remedy to control proliferation of pathogenic and/or opportunistic microorganisms.
The importance of having a healthy and balanced intestinal microflora has already been highlighted, particularly with regard to its role in preserving the balance and efficiency of the immune system and to ensure adequate defense of the organism against any kind of microbial infection. Moreover, also when applied in formulations for local use, due to its “selective cleansing” action it acts against pathogens without significantly affecting the physiological flora of skin and mucosae, safeguarding their essential, defensive functionality.
GSE therefore represents a definitely valuable aid in case of insect bites.
For all the above reasons, GSE therefore represents the cornerstone upon which an extraordinarily effective approach is based to counteract insect bites. The association and synergy of specific plant extracts enables to implement a complete approach that provides for the following:
- cleansing of areas affected by insect bites and of delicate parts of the body;
- antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action,
- beneficial for the physiological functioning of skin affected by erythema;
- general systemic action (internal), with a stimulating activity on the immune system.
This approach, combined with a healthy lifestyle (in terms of diet, but not only), includes the use of natural remedies that are well known in folk tradition and the efficacy of which in providing an opportunity to reach a solution has been confirmed by recent studies
1 - Cleansing of areas affected by insect bites and of delicate body parts
Product ingredients
Grapefruit Seed Extract: with its bactericide property coupled with its antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic activity, it carries out not only a protective and preventive action on particularly delicate areas of the skin, against aggressive external agents, but can also be considered as a valid support in the treatment of several skin pathologies.
It is worth emphasizing GSE’s extraordinary antifungal activity against 100 strains of yeasts and moulds, including Candida albicans, responsible for mucosal infections and systemic disorders (pneumopathies, kidney disorders, etc.) in immune compromised individuals.
Studies carried out by Dr Leo Galland in New York on chronic Candidiasis (both intestinal and systemic) have reached interesting and significant results: success in 99% of treatments effected (only two failures out of 297 cases), without any cases of resistance nor side-effects.
Rice bran oil: obtained through pressing of fresh rice bran, it is characterized by the high level of tocopherols and tocotrienols, as well as for its high oxidative stability. Main substances contained are: proteins, starches, amylopectins, essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, gamma oryzanol, inositol; it has refreshing, nourishing, emollient, antiseptic as well as astringent properties.
Icelandic lichen extract: lichens are twofold organisms. In fact, they represent a plant body consisting in the symbiotic association of a fungus and an algae. In Icelandic lichen, starches, mucilages and a series of acids called lichen acids have been isolated. The plant surely has specific, marked antimicrobial properties, principally due to the presence of a particular substance, namely a furan derivative called usnic acid. This ingredient has proven to exert an interesting antibiotic activity towards several groups of germs.
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate: this is an extremely delicate cleansing agent (a surfactant), an irreplaceable element, ideal to cleanse delicate areas of the skin (face, nipples, etc.), particularly sensitive skin or skin affected by pathologies, i.e. cases requiring special attention for the skin’s hydrolipidic film and physiology.
The ideal means to convey these elements is an extremely delicate cleanser, enabling targeted use on delicate areas such as the face, underarms and nipples. Daily use is recommended also as a preventive measure.
2 - Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action, beneficial for the physiological functioning of the skin affected by erythema.
Product ingredients
Grapefruit Seed Extract : as already highlighted, results obtained regarding its antimicrobial efficacy, coupled with its harmlessness, once again confirm that it is the ideal remedy to solve the problem of dermatitis. GSE’s synergy with specific plant extracts proves to be of great use, making the formulation even more effective and safe to use, even in cases where reddening is caused by irritative or allergic factors.
Echinacea: this plant has bacteriostatic and virustatic properties. In-depth studies have confirmed its anti-inflammatory, skin repairing properties, as well its inhibiting the hyaluronidase enzyme responsible for the polymerization of hyaluronic acid. Nowadays its anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing and reepithelising activity in case of aftermaths of dermatological infections has been amply recognized.
Nymphaea: an aquatic plant particularly indicated for its anti-oedematose action also on delicate skins.
Lithospermum erythrorhizon: this small, herbaceous shrub belongs to the Boraginaceae family and grows wildly in Asia and Australia. The phytocomplex is rich in naphthoquinones, the most active of which is Shikonine. In Chinese medicine, the plant is known as a remedy for topical use, indicated for skin problems. Clinical studies confirm such use, proving that the phytocomplex exerts an anti-inflammatory, antipruriginous and rehydrating activity.
Biosterine®: phytocompound consisting in the association of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Sage (Salvia Officinalis) titrated at 40% in Rosmarinic Acid, with anti-inflammatory properties, as it inhibits proinflammatory mediators and the inflammatory cascade.
Carboxymethyl beta-glucan: deriving from fermentation, carried out by yeasts, of glucan polysaccharides extracted from cereals, it has regenerating, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. For topical use, it protects from oxidative stress and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts, which are crucial for tissue regeneration. Morever, it possesses non-specific immunostimulant properties, important for cicatrizing processes.
These natural plant ingredients are artfully combined in a dermatological gel.
3 - Should the skin problem affect a larger area…
Product ingredients
Grapefruit Seed Extract: results obtained from researches conducted to date indicate that this extract acts against around 800 strains of bacteria and viruses, around 100 strains of funghi and several single-cell parasites. No other known antimicrobial is capable of similar results. Dr J.A. Botine of the University of Sao Paulo in Brasil has tested and proved GSE’s total efficacy as a disinfectant (100%) compared to traditional substances (98%) and alcohol (72%).
All this explains why Grapefruit Seed Extract in powder is recommended by dermatologists worldwide for the treatment of the following problems: lesions of different nature (wounds, sores, scaldings, etc.), dermatitis, dermatosis, erythemas, diaper rashes (newborn babies, female genitals, etc.), mycosis of the skin and athlete’s foot. GSE is the real first aid for the skin.
Melaleuca Oil (Tea Tree Oil): its essential oil is a powerful antiseptic, natural antiviral and antifungal, therefore useful in curing severe and extended mycosis. Rice starch and oatmeal, enriched with olive dry extract: powder as a supporting vehicle.
The ideal vehicle to convey these elements is a dermatological power, enabling easy, extended use while ensuring rapid absorption of the plant active ingredients. Recommended application: spread on the affected area two or three times a day.
4 - General (internal) action with a stimulating activity on the immune system.
Product ingredients
Grapefruit Seed Extract: as is well-known, reinforcement of our defence system is very important, and beneficial bacteria inhabiting the gastro-intestinal tract represent the first line of the organism’s defence against external aggressions.
There are several factors causing a diminution of beneficial colonies (unhealthy diet, intoxication, allergies, stress, etc.); if, as is often the case, this adds up to a therapy based on antibiotics, beneficial bacteria are destroyed, giving way to pathogenic microorganisms.
Once the first line of defence has been overcome, the enemy bacteria finds an immune system that, if under massive attack owing to the lack of a “filter”, gives way to the onset of diseases. With its selective bactericide action, GSE can be useful as a preventive measure, since it acts as a “garbage collector” in the intestinal tract. In fact, eliminating pathogenic microorganisms encourages the development of physiological bacterial flora, thus improving the body’s natural defenses.
Echinacea: it slows down the spread of pathogenic germs, triggering a defensive mechanism against them while promoting the regenerative activity of tissues. For this reason, Echinacea preparations are considered effective in the treatment of septic conditions in infective pathologies;
Rhodiola rosea: it can heighten the organism’s resistance against toxins, increasing the level of enzymes, of RNA and proteins and is therefore capable of reducing recovery time following fatigue and prolonged diseases;
Uncaria: it not only stimulates the immune system but is also capable of repairing DNA AND moreover stimulates the proliferation of lymphocytes as well as increasing the number of white cells;
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia): with amply demonstrated antiviral properties, it is effective against bacteria and fungi and is a powerful stimulant of the immune system.
The ideal form of intake of such plant ingredients is represented by swallowable tablets, available in pillboxes containing 60 pieces. Available in the drinkable version for children: a 250 ml bottle containing the same composition of the tablets.
The association of the above described ingredients, essential to ensure a definitive approach against insect bites, can be further supported by specific remedies indicated for the following actions:
- Rebalancing the intestinal flora while strengthening the organism’s natural defences: for adults, single use vials with patented measuring cap, based on probiotics (B. bifidum, L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Uncaria and Morinda citrifolia (Noni); for children, sachets containing probiotics (B. infantis, B. longum, L. Rhamnosus), galacto-oligosaccharides, fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Uncaria and Morinda citrifolia (Noni).
