Methylene Blue – A bolt from the Blue

January 27, 2026 by Jurgen

Many of us who studied chemistry in school will remember the ubiquitous bottles of methylene blue — a dark blue, ink-like substance used in various reactions, tests, and as a staining agent. What might come as a surprise is that methylene blue was the first synthetic pharmaceutical ever created. It was first produced as a dye by a German chemist in 1876 and quickly found use as a medicine.

Initially used to treat methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder), methylene blue later became a treatment for conditions such as malaria, urinary tract infections, cyanide and carbon monoxide poisoning, septic shock, neurodegenerative disorders, and psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Its historical use also contributed to the development of other widely-used antimalarials and antidepressants.

Modern research has focused on methylene blue’s ability to enhance mitochondrial function. Mitochondria, often called the powerhouses of cells, convert glucose and oxygen into energy. Dysfunction in these structures is thought to contribute significantly to degenerative and age-related diseases.

Because of this, methylene blue is being investigated for its potential in treating Alzheimer’s disease, as well as ischemic brain injury (such as stroke), traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and other neuro-degenerative conditions. Its key mechanism appears to be enhancing mitochondrial efficiency, which improves energy production, blood flow, and cellular repair.

Additionally, methylene blue may boost levels of vital brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which can elevate mood and support mental well-being.

As a powerful antioxidant and enhancer of energy metabolism, methylene blue could help combat age-related changes throughout the body, potentially helping us look younger and stay healthier longer.

Recent attention has also turned to its antimicrobial properties, with promising implications in the fight against bacterial and viral infections. TBC.

Caution: Methylene blue is a dye and should not be used if you are taking antidepressant medications. It may stain the tongue and cause temporary discolouration of urine and stool.

Ashwagandha Tonic

January 16, 2026 by Jurgen

ashwagandha

Ashwagandha – Withania somnifera

Traditional use: For debility, nervous exhaustion, convalescence, and as a general tonic; memory enhancement, raising testosterone and oestrogen.

Parts used: Roots, leaves and berries are edible, or can be made into a tincture or dried herbal capsule.

Active Ingredients

  • Steroidal compounds like withaferin A
  • sitoindosides
  • alkaloids like tropane types
  • isopelletierine
  • anaferine

Ashwagandha is also know as

  • Indian ginseng
  • Winter cherry

Ashwagandha literally means, “sweat of a horse” due to the scent of the roots.

The herb was generally used as a tonic for promoting longevity, treating emaciation and for improving reproductive functions of both men and women helping to balance hormones like testosterone and oestrogen. It has been used medicinally in India as an Ayurvedic medicine for over 3000 years.

Ashwagandha is considered an adaptogen, adaptogens help to adapt to stressful situations. Keep you calm when stressed, give you energy when tired.

Ashwagandha has a mild sedative effect, as the ‘somni’ part of its Latin name indicates. somniferous | tending to induce sleep;

 

Surviving the festive season

December 19, 2025 by Jurgen

A time of good cheer, great parties and relaxation …

Well, maybe not for those who spend the holiday period with indigestion, bloated stomachs and flatulence on account of the big meals and gluttony.

Use Probiotics to combat bloating and a Festive Digestive Aid with enzymes, ginger and peppermint to reduce strain on the gall bladder and pancreas. – Both remedies boost the power of the digestive tract and minimise digestive trauma.

Silybum marianum

For those hitting the bottle on their party-go-round, the must-have herbal remedy is Milk Thistle Complex, which should be taken before leaving home, on returning home and again in the morning.

Not only does it reduce the hang-over pain, it helps process rich, fatty foods, so it can be part of your New Year detox plan, too.

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