A follow up post to the iHerb order

I have received some questions on some of the products and its intended usage. So here's a quick summary on what they are per my research. (By the way, i am no doctor. This is based on what I gathered from Dr Google..haha): 

1. What is Propolis? 

Propolis is a resinous mixture that honey bees collect from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. It is used as a sealant for unwanted open spaces in the hive. Propolis is used for small gaps, while larger spaces are usually filled with beeswax.

According to this  site, Propolis has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to 350 B.C., the time of Aristotle. Greeks have used propolis for abscesses; Assyrians have used it for healing wounds and tumors; and Egyptians have used it for mummification. It still has many medicinal uses today, although its effectiveness has only been shown for a couple of them.

Propolis seems to have activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It might also have anti-inflammatory effects and help skin heal.

Why I buy: Recommended by my friend who finds it effective for use at the first signs of sore throat, so as to prevent the impending fever and flu. For adults. 

2. What is Probiotics? 

Probiotics are organisms such as bacteria or yeast that are believed to improve health. They are available in supplements and foods. The idea of taking live bacteria or yeast may seem strange at first. After all, we take antibiotics to fight bacteria. But our bodies naturally teem with such organisms.

The digestive system is home to more than 500 different types of bacteria. They help keep the intestines healthy and assist in digesting food. They are also believed to help the immune system.

How I got to know about Probiotics: Cayen had some eczema and Doctor prescribed the BioGaia probiotics on top of the usual steroids (which I tried to avoid using as it will thin the skin).

Why I use Probiotics: During the time he was taking probiotics, the eczema went away after a few months and he was healthy all year round. Then, when we administered the probiotics irregularly for 2 months when it changed to tablet form (became rather inconvenient) after he was one year old, the eczema came back and he was sick from flu and fever 2 times in that 2 months. Coincidence or not, I am now a proponent of probiotics due to this little "test and control". It really seemed to help skin and overall immune system. Also, he will pass motion every day when he's taking it so no problem with constipation.  

In any case, if kids have diarrhea, doctors will also administer probiotics so I guess the effects on certain aspects are already quite well recognized. Also, I read that a study published in 2010 suggests that probiotics may lower the risk of common childhood illnesses such as ear infections, strep throat, and colds. Here's a laundry list of all the benefits. 

As probiotics need to be kept and administered cold, I have yet to purchase any probiotics from iHerb for him yet (I am buying from our PD) though I just realised that the ones I bought for adults can be administered to kids more than 1 year old. More research required on whether I should get future purchases from iHerb.

3. What is Glucosamine Chondroitin 

Glucosamine and chondroitin are part of normal cartilage. Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones in a joint. Glucosamine, also called chitosamine, is a natural substance that is found in the covering of shellfish.

What is it for: Some people believe it helps maintain strong, healthy and flexible joints. Supports the body's connective tissue. Benefits hair, skin and nails.

How I got to know about it: My mother and auntie have been taking Glucosamine Chondrotin (not this brand though..this is first time I am trying out this one). My auntie's pain in the knee cap went away after she started taking Glucosamine supplements at the doctor's advice so now they are both believers.