Research

Effect of A Chinese Herbal Formula BetterWOMAN On Bladder Control Issues in Women

Wishnow PW.et al Menopause 2003; 10(6):578-8 ABSTRACT 14th Annual Meeting of the North American Menopause Society, September 2003

Study Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of a Chinese herbal formula on bladder control issues in women, including stress-related urinary urine leakage, sudden urinary urges, and frequent urination.

Conclusions:

Evidence provided by the study suggests the key ingredients in BetterWOMAN reduced female stress related urine leakage after a 60-day study period. Over seventy percent (70%) of participants reported reduced urinary urgency and urinary frequency. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory has long suggested that the key ingredients in BetterWOMAN may improve the tonality and strength of the muscle systems that support the bladder functions by promoting blood circulation, supporting hormone balance and supporting neuromuscular functions.

Over 70% of the participants reported improvements

Study Design:

The study included forty-five females aged from 35 to 78. Duration of the study was 60 days, and each participant was presented with a self-assessment questionnaire to quantitatively evaluate each participant’s results based on the pre- and post- BetterWOMAN treatment symptom scores.

For each parameter tested, the number of total qualified participants include those with a pre-treatment symptom score reported as “frequent” or more significant than frequent. To qualify as “reported improved”, a participant’s post-treatment symptom score must have improved from “frequent” to “occasionally” or better.

McNemar chi-squared statistic method was used for data analysis. The treatment dosage was one 400 mg BetterWOMAN capsule twice a day for 60 days with a 3-day break without capsules every 20 days.

Results:

• Of 45 participants, 38 complete data points were collected (n=38) after 60 days.
• Demographic distribution was 26.3% younger than 44 and 73.3% over 45 years old.
• 86.8% participants are menopausal or post-menopausal women.
• 76% reported decreased symptom of stress-related urinary leakage (n=21, p<0.05)
• 70% reported decreased urinary urgency (n=20); and 73% reported decreased urinary frequency (n=15).
• No negative side effects were reported.

Note: This is the Abstract of the original article, edited to conform to the dietary supplement regulations.

University of California, San Francisco Scientific Study: BetterMAN Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Formula Improves Erectile Function in Rats—Rules Out Placebo Effect

The first scientific evidence of the beneficial effects of BetterMAN on penile tissue was published in the prestigious Journal of Urology (November 2000). The JU article reported on a study conducted by leading urologist, Tom Lue, MD at the University of California San Francisco, Department of Urology.

Dr. Lue, known throughout the world for his influential research in the field of impotency, wondered if any of the herbal dietary supplement formulas which claimed to improve ED actually worked. Dr. Lue was intrigued by the reported positive clinical outcomes of BetterMAN. He and his colleagues set out to see if it indeed worked, and if there was a scientific basis for its purported benefits. According to Dr. Lue, “The effectiveness of a product for ED can be ascertained more accurately in animals than in humans due to the absence of the placebo effect, which can run as high as 40% in human studies.”

With this in mind, Dr. Lue conducted his study with hypercholesterolemic rats. Hypercholesterolemia is a factor known to contribute to ED in men. Rats naturally develop ED around the age of 24 months, which is equivalent to 70 human years. Previous research found that rats consistently develop ED after being fed a 1% cholesterol diet for 4 months.

Accordingly, rats in this study were fed a 1% cholesterol diet for 4 months. During the last two-month period, two groups of rats were fed the BetterMAN formula in their drinking water at two different dosages: 25 mg/kg per day and 50 mg/kg per day, while one group was fed water only. A separate control group of rats was fed a normal diet. At the end of the 4 months, 100% of the BetterMAN-treated rats regained their erectile function as evidenced by the normal peak-sustained intracavernous pressure, while all the rats in the non-treated groups remained impotent.

The groups receiving the BetterMAN formula showed no significant difference in cholesterol levels, systolic blood pressure, and neuronal and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS) levels compared to the control groups. The most interesting results were the significant increases in membrane caveolae, caveolin-1, and basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) protein levels in the penile tissue of the BetterMAN-treated groups.

Caveolin-1 is the major component of caveolae, small bulb-shaped invaginations at or near the cell surface, which act to sequester membrane-bound ligands away from extra cellular space and facilitate their delivery to the cell cytoplasm. UCSF researchers suggest that the substantial increases of caveolin-1 and caveolae may compensate or overcome the harmful effects of hypercholesterolemia on the smooth muscle and endothelial cells, and thus, reverse erectile dysfunction in the treated groups.

Basic fibroblastic growth factor (bFGF) protein level was also significantly higher in the BetterMAN-treated group as revealed by Western blot. This finding suggests that treatment with BetterMAN results in up-regulation of bFGF, which may reverse the suppressive effect of hypercholesterolemia on the smooth muscle and endothelium.

The significance of this study is that it rules out the placebo effect. The study also indicates that the activities of BetterMAN are very different from that of PDE-5 inhibitors, such as Viagra. Dr. Lue and his colleagues concluded that it is likely that more factors may be involved in the formula’s ability to treat ED, and that larger scale studies are needed to determine the mechanisms of action of the formula and its effect on other organ systems.

Effects of A Chinese Herbal Formula BetterMAN On Male Testosterone and HDL

Presentation at Canadian Society for The Study of Aging Male (CSSAM)/International Society for the Study of Aging Male (ISSAM) North American Congress on the Aging Male Vancouver, B.C., Canada, February, 2005

Sergey Dzugan, MD, Keith Lennertz, BS, Dana Shapiro, Susan Luchik, BSMT, William Faloon, Life Extension Foundation, FL;Gottfried Kellermann, PhD, Neurosciences, WI; Peipei Wishnow, PhD, Interceuticals, MA.

OBJECTIVES:

The Chinese herbal formula BetterMAN was shown to significantly improve erectile response in a hypercholesterolemic animal model study (1). Clinical evidence has shown that the formula improves male sexual/urinary functions and general wellbeing. We examine the formula’s effect on male free testosterone, lipid profile and related biological parameters.

METHODS:

Fourteen men aged 45 to 68 participated in the study taking 2 capsules daily for 60 days. Saliva andfasting blood samples were collected before 9:30 AM on days 0, 20, 40, and 60. Saliva samples were assayed for testosterone levels using a Direct RIA method. Serum samples were assayed for lipid panels and other biological parameters. The serum free testosterone was measured using a Direct Analog RIA method. All data was normalized for analysis.

RESULTS:

Twelve men completed the study. Saliva testosterone levels were significantly increased after 60 days (34% average increase, n=8, p< 0.05). HDL levels were also significantly increased after 60 days (10% average increase, n=12, p< 0.02). There were no changes in PSA, Estradiol, DHEA, SHBG, LDL, TG, or total cholesterol levels. The Direct Analog RIA did not show free testosterone changes in serum as otherwise observed in saliva testosterone, confirming AACE’s guideline that Analog methodology may not be suitable for clinical evaluation (2).

CONCLUSION:

BetterMAN formula significantly increased saliva testosterone levels, providing a potential explanation for the formula’s broad benefits to men. The fact that the testosterone increases were observed only after 60 days indicates the increased testosterone was endogenous. There were no changes in PSA or Estradiol levels, supporting the formula’s long standing safety record. Surprisingly, HDL levels were significantly increased. Taken together with the elevated caveolin-1 and caveolae in the cavernous endothelia and smooth muscle cells shown in the previous study (1), BetterMAN formula may modulate a novel HDL-caveolae mediated cholesterol efflux process to improve cardiovascular healthand erectile response. These positive findings warrant continued investigation.

Short-term Study with American Men: BetterMAN Found to be 70% Effective for Improving Sexual Functions and/or Urinary Control

Results from a 1997-98 independent study of American men indicate that even taken short-term, BetterMAN is 70% effective at enhancing sexual functions and promoting urinary control. In the study, 45 men between the ages of 41 and 71 were recruited to take BetterMAN at the suggested 3×20-day cycle (2 capsules daily after meals with a 3 day break between each bottle). The study was modeled after the A Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory developed at Harvard University to quantitatively measure the effects of BetterMAN pre-post three cycles of use.

The following results were tabulated by a third party:

• 70%: Improved either sexual or urinary functions
• 60%: Improved sexual functions
• 68%: Improved urinary functions

Percentage of participants noticing improvements versus length of treatment:

• 25% after 1st cycle (bottle)
• 55% after 2nd cycle
• 70% after 3rd cycle

There were no side effects or adverse reactions, and after the study, 90% of participants elected to continue taking BetterMAN.

(From “RESULTS FROM THE BetterMAN PRODUCT SURVEY”, March 1998 by Pathfinder Research Group, Acton, Massachusetts. BetterMAN, formerly NuMAN)

The compiled data showed BetterMAN to be a well-balanced formula providing the following
benefits:

• Promotes both yin and yang function of the kidney
• Enhances ability to attain and maintain an erection
• Improves sexual drive and libido
• Improves ejaculation regularity
• Improves bladder control
• Reduces nighttime urinary frequency
• Reduces occasional leakage
• Supports prostate health
• No side effects; safe to use

This data provides some evidence that the BetterMAN formula is effective for Chinese men in improving their sexual and urinary functions.

Memory Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin (Theracurmin Curcumin 90 mg Twice Daily) in Non-Demented Adults: The First Long-Term (18 Months) Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study in USA

Gary W. Small, M.D. et al. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry 2018; 26(3), 266-77

Study Details:

The study was conducted at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) led by Gary Small, MD, Director of UCLA Longevity Center, Director of Geriatric Psychiatry Division at Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior started in March 2012 and completed in April 2016.

This was the first 18-month long, double-blind, placebo-controlled USA study on the memory effects of a bioavailable form of curcumin (Theracurmin Curcumin) in normal and age-related mild cognitive impairment people. Better Memory key ingredient Theracurmin® Curcumin (90 mg twice a day) was chosen for the study due to its superior absorption into the bloodstream and higher bioavailability when compared to standard curcumin. 40 Participants aged 51-84 completed the study.

The cognitive outcomes were measured using various neurological testing instruments (see below) including FDDNP-PET brain scans.

Key Findings:

The study found statistically significant cognitive benefits in the Theracurmin Curcumin-treated group as compared with the placebo group, including positive brain PET scan results. These health benefits were not observed in the placebo group.

90 mg twice daily for 18 months with Better Memory key ingredient Theracurmin Curcumin led to significant improvement in the following areas:

• Average 28% increase in memory functions*
• Improved short-term memory*
• Improved long-term memory*
• Improved attention and focus*
• Improved recall and retrieval*
• Improved mood balance*
• Improved memory storage*

Cognitive Outcome Measurement Instruments:

• Buschke Selective Reminding Test (Buschke SRT)
• Tests verbal memory, consistent Long-Term Retrieval, Total Recall, and Long-Term Storage
• Brief Visual Memory Test – Revised (BVMT-R)
• Tests visual memory
• Trail Making Test – Part A
• Tests attention and focus capabilities
• Beck Depression Inventory
• Tests mood and self-reported occasional depression
• FDDNP PET Brain Scan
• To detect brain structural changes – a patented brain imaging technology developed at UCLA, used for detecting specific bindings of beta amyloid and tau protein in various regions in the brain.

Researchers concluded that the oral dosage of Better Memory key ingredient Theracurmin Curcumin at 90 mg twice daily led to significant memory and attention benefits.

Mitochondrial Bioenergetics Decay in Aging: Beneficial Effect of Melatonin

Giuseppe Paradies, Valeria Paradies, Francesca M. Ruggiero, Giuseppe Petrosillo2, Authors, Cellular Life Science, August 2017

This review seeks to bring together several recent studies (cited in the discussion) that show the notable positive effects of melatonin upon mitochondrial health associated with “physiopathological conditions characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, neurological and cardiovascular disorders, as well as aging.”

The authors sum several studies and make two important observations:

• Melatonin protects mitochondria
• Melatonin has a net positive effect upon cognitive function through protection of the mitochondria. The degradation of mitochondria (“mitochondrial bioenergetic decay”) is recognized as central to the process of cognitive decline, memory loss, and other neurological signs of aging.

The Key Ingredient in Better Memory PM – Melatonin – Protects Mitochondria

Mitochondria are a part of every cell in the body and are responsible for producing the energy each cell needs to continue to operate. This energy source is referred to scientifically as “ATP” (Adenosine triphosphate). The consumption by the cell of ATP results in a by-product known as “ROS” (Reactive Oxygen Species). This by-product can damage the cells, and the presence of ROS is destructive to mitochondria.

• Studies show that melatonin protects mitochondria from the effects of ROS. The destruction of mitochondria is associated with cognitive decline and aging. This study shows that melatonin protects mitochondria from the effects of ROS.
• Melatonin protects mitochondrial membranes Lipid peroxidation, or the reduction in cell membrane fluidity, is closely associated with aging. Melatonin helps maintain the optimal membrane fluidity and function of the mitochondrial membranes.
• Melatonin protects cardiolipins** against oxidation Changes to cardiolipins are problematic in the protection of mitochondrial bioenergetics. The presence of melatonin has been shown to inhibit oxidation of cardiolipins and protect against cell decline as a result.
• **Cardiolipins are found almost exclusively in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Cardiolipins are essential for the optimal function of numerous enzymes involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism.
• There is a clear connection between melatonin and reduced apoptosis and better bioenergetics.

One of the keys to slowing the decline in brain function associated with aging is to reduce apoptosis – cell death and keep the process of feeding cells and removing by-products of energy production normal. The presence of melatonin has been shown to provide both outcomes.

The Key Ingredient in Better Memory PM has been shown to support both memory and cognitive function.

• Melatonin readily passes the selective brain-blood barrier and is readily absorbed In a test of healthy subjects with normal aging brain issues, researchers found that those subjects who took melatonin before bed each night for 9-18 months performed markedly better on neuropsychological tests than those who did not, and subjects also attested to improvements in sleep quality and wakefulness. This is due to melatonin’s ability to be absorbed by the cell wall and improve mitochondrial function.
• Melatonin reduces oxidative stress in cells Oxidative stress reduces healthy blood flow to the brain. A reduction in oxidation of cell structures as a result of adequate melatonin encourages healthy blood flow which is central to normal cognitive function.
• Melatonin is a free-radical scavenger and suppresses production of toxins. Toxins produced during oxidation are harmful to mitochondria and thus cell life. Melatonin has been shown to both reduce toxins produced as a result of oxidation, and to boost levels of natural anti-oxidants associated with healthy aging.

Better Curcumin with Theracurmin Curcumin

Recent studies have shown that when taken as directed, Theracurmin Curcumin, the key ingredient in Better Curcumin, is a significantly more effective form of Curcumin than those used in other Curcumin supplements.

Key Findings, Bioavailability:

• Comprised of particle sizes 100x smaller than standard Curcumin. This means better absorption and bioavailability.
• Bioavailability is 27X higher than standard Curcumin.

Further Results, Benefits:

Based on studies, users can expect the key ingredient in Better Curcumin with Theracurmin Curcumin to provide support for:

• Exceptional healthy inflammatory response capabilities
• Superior antioxidant functions
• Improved joint comfort
• Relief of minor occasional pain associated with exercise/overuse
• Support for better cardiovascular, heart and arterial health
• Benefits to cognitive and memory functions
• Better exercise, endurance and muscle fatigue recovery
• Support for detoxification pathways
• Improved skin moisture retention and age spot reduction
• Metabolic pathway efficiency improvement
• Promotion for better lung function and lung health

Theracurmin Curcumin Studies

UCLA 2018 Memory Study Conducted at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), led by Gary Small, MD, Director of UCLA Longevity Center, Director of Geriatric Psychiatry Division at Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry (2018 26:3, 266-277).

This study demonstrated the increased efficacy of Theracurmin Curcumin due to its higher bio-availability through the use of nanotechnology.

Curcumin Studies

Clinical Application of “Curcumin,” a Multi-Functional Substance Akira Shimatsu, Hideaki Kakeya, Atsushi Imaizumi, Tatsuya Morimoto, Masashi Kanai, Seiji Maeda
Published by Anti-Aging Medicine, March 30, 2012

This study illustrates the various health applications of Curcumin as studied and reported by science. Numerous scientific studies dating back decades recognize Curcumen as effective in eliciting a healthy inflammatory response.

Therapeutic Roles of Curcumin: Lessons Learned from Clinical Trials Subash C. Gupta, Sridevi Patchva, and Bharat B. Aggarwal Published online AAPS J. 2013 Jan; 15(1): 195–218.

This study shows that while studies concerning Curcumin have some limited results due its lack of bioavailability, as bioavailability methods are improved, its efficacy as a treatment for numerous health challenges may be significant.

• Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health
• Susan J. Hewlings and Douglas S. Kalman
• Foods. 2017 Oct; 6(10): 92.
• Published online 2017 Oct 22. doi: [10.3390/foods6100092]

This study once again recognizes Curcumin as a compound with significant healthy anti- inflammatory potential across a broad range of health challenges, particularly when combines with other ingredients which may increase its effectiveness and bioavailability.