Australia joins global cohort to drive gender parity across the $5.5bn complementary medicines industry

SYDNEY, Australia (7 November 2022) – Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN), the non-profit spearheaded by a cohort of global nutraceutical leaders, today announced its formal launch across the globe in US, Europe and Australasia, with a vision to inspire, empower and motivate women in the global nutraceutical industry to achieve personal and professional success.

According to the latest audit by peak industry body Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA), industry revenue sits at $5.5 billion with 77 TGA-licensed finished complementary medicine product manufacturing sites, employing 2,515 people in the manufacturing sector alone.  Nearly 70% of the Australian population consumes a nutraceutical supplement.

“The contribution women make to the industry's success is immeasurable,” said London-based WIN President, Heather Granato, Vice President, Partnerships & Sustainability, Informa. “Yet in the US, the 2021 Women in the Workplace report showed that only 86 women to every 100 men are promoted to first-level manager, and women are under-represented in leadership roles across the nutraceutical industry.” 

“The lack of female leadership representation is a disservice to the industry as women represent the majority of consumers and consistently add significant value when they hold influential positions. WIN was formed to amplify women’s industry standing and provide them support, resources, and tools to achieve professional and personal success,” Granato said.

Women In Nutraceuticals is a non-profit global organization that champions the cause of women in the nutraceutical industry to achieve equal opportunity and representation of women in the boardroom and C-suite as well as maximising funding for women-led businesses championing more women in science and research initiatives in female populations.

WIN’s founding members represent organizations from around the globe, including the United States, Europe, Asia and Australasia.

“The Australian nutraceutical sector is one of the most highly regarded in the world, for its commitment to quality ingredients and manufacturing processes, for the best outcome for Australians. The industry employs 2515 people in the Complementary Medicine manufacturing sector alone, without considering research, retail and brand holders. Women have played an integral role in the success of the industry for decades, and it is our duty to strive for gender parity through our mission which is to empower women in nutraceuticals to unlock their personal and professional potential,” said WIN’s Australian-based Marketing Committee Co-Chair, Gillian Fish, CEO of The 6AM Agency.

“The support of the global industry in the space of a matter of weeks has been overwhelming and highlights the sentiment of both men and women across the supply chain that there is a clear need to help increase the percentage of women holding leadership roles, funding for female-led businesses, and women’s participation in research,” she said.

In 2022, WIN is focused on establishing benchmarking data on women’s roles in the industry across the globe, helping increase the percentage of women holding leadership roles, securing funding for female-led businesses and ensuring female representation in research. The organization will also foster connections through networking events and education.

WIN founding sponsors include Alkemist Labs, Amin Talati Wasserman, Arizona Nutritional Supplements, Artemis International, Avant Nutrition LLC, Cepham Inc, Council for Responsible Nutrition, Cypress Systems, DCC Health & Beauty Solutions USA, Industry Transparency Center, Informa, IngredientsOnline.com, Kemin, Know Agency, Kyowa Hakko, MAYPRO Group, Merical, Nutrasource, Nutrify Today, Nutrition Capital Network, Organic & Natural Health Association, The 6AM Agency. Founding media partners include Nutraceuticals World, NutraIngredients-USA, Nutritional Outlook, SupplySide/New Hope/Vitafoods, and WholeFoods Magazine.

For information about WIN Events, Membership and Sponsorship opportunities, visit WomenInNutraceuticals.org.

Can a product be "made in Australia" from imported ingredients?

The short answer is yes. The Made in Australia logo is widely respected, and more and more Australians want to support local makers knowing that the products they choose are "made in Australia." But when it comes to Australia's complementary medicine industry, this isn't always straightforward.

Specific growing conditions

It isn't always possible to grow all the herbs here in Australia. For example, alpine plants are adapted to harsh conditions such as low temperatures, dryness, ultraviolet radiation, wind, drought, and poor nutritional soil. They may also have a short growing season.

Another example is peonies which also come from cool temperatures in mountain regions in the northern hemisphere, including parts of China; they need cold winters, mild summers and deep, rich, moisture-retentive soils.

The popular herb Withania, or ashwagandha, grows best in well-drained, sandy or light soils, which the Indian state of Rajasthan provides and is said to produce some of the best quality herbs.  And in some instances, generations of growers have developed in-depth knowledge of the best cultivation practices. Thus, the intricate and individual growing conditions make it impossible to grow every ingredient in natural medicines here in Australia.

Strictly controlled, tested and regulated

When ingredients are imported from overseas, they are strictly controlled and tested for authenticity by Australia's complementary medicines industry according to the highest standards in the world. In an industry that is more highly regulated than any other complementary medicines in the world. And it is an Australian success story.

Growing the economy, securing jobs

Australian complementary medicine provides around AUD$1.8 billion to the economy yearly. Continued positive growth will grow our advanced manufacturing sector, boost Australian jobs and stimulate scientific evaluation and research.

Complementary medicines include vitamins, mineral and nutritional supplements, homeopathic, aromatherapy products and herbal medicines, plus traditional medicines, including traditional Chinese medicines, Ayurvedic, Australian Indigenous and Western herbal medicines. These are regulated in Australia as medicines under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.

Certifying products as being made here in Australia is a robust sales and marketing asset. It is only awarded if the company meets the criteria set out in Australian Consumer Law and the Australian Made Logo code of practice. This powerful emblem sends a clear message to consumers that the product is an authentic Australian alternative product made for Australians and discerning consumers overseas.

Australian Made, Australian Grown

The Australian Made, Australian Grown logo certifies a product is totally or mostly manufactured, processed or transformed in Australia. The logo tells your consumers that your product is genuinely made in Australia and positively impacts the Australian economy. A 2019 press release by Roy Morgan Research shows that 90% of Australians over fourteen are more likely to buy locally-made products.

Several kinds of "made in Australia" certifications are printed with the Australian Made logo. The customer can thus clearly see how or to what extent a product was made in Australia. For example, if a product is made in Australia from imported ingredients, it must meet specific criteria.

Made-in-Australia symbols explained

Australian Made

The product is significantly transformed in Australia, even if its components are from international suppliers. Yes, it can be made in Australia from imported ingredients!

Transforming the ingredients into the product is still beneficial to the local industry.

Australian Grown

Local farmers grow all of the significant ingredients in the product here in Australia. Additionally, all or nearly all of the processing occurs in Australia.

Product of Australia

All of the significant ingredients in the product come from around Australia. Additionally, the components are totally or mostly manufactured or processed in Australia; this differs from "Australian Grown" because those "ingredients" might not be crops or produce, for example.

The benefits of buying Made in Australia

In a few words, buying products made in Australia benefits consumers and the country. Each dollar can make a change since it directs resources to local businesses, local communities, and local families. You're buying products that are certified as safer, higher quality, and more trustworthy due to Australia's strict regulations. There's no downside to supporting local industry.

One new study suggests no evidence that taking vitamin D supplements reduces the risk of bone fractures in healthy older adults. However, this contradicts numerous other studies and expert authorities in osteoporosis and bone health.

This vital fat-soluble vitamin has a myriad of body functions. Technically a prohormone, vitamin D is made when the sun reacts with a. cholesterol-type substance in the skin – which is why it is called the sunshine vitamin. Some foods also contain vitamin D.

This essential vitamin maintains healthy bones and teeth and plays many vital roles, including regulating inflammation and immune function. It also has neuroprotective effects; it affects the production of proteins required for developing neurons (brain cells). Additionally, vitamin D helps protect nervous tissues from oxidative stress and ensures balanced calcium levels in our blood (and cells, including the nervous system).

Irrefutable evidence 

Certain people are at risk of vitamin D deficiency, and there is irrefutable evidence

to support the significant benefits of supplementing vitamin D in these groups.

Several factors can affect the body's ability to get adequate vitamin D from sunlight alone.

According to the National Institutes of Health, You may be less likely to absorb enough vitamin D from the sun to meet your needs if you:

• Live in an area with high pollution (which provides a barrier between the skin and the sun). 
• Use of sunscreen – safe sun exposure and sunscreen are highly recommended in Australia.  
• Spend most of your time indoors  
• Cover your skin for cultural or other reasons  
• Have darker skin (this is because the higher melanin levels mean that your body creates less vitamin D).
• Are older – as skin thins, the skin becomes less efficient in making vitamin D. Hence, vitamin D production becomes less efficient.
• Have inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) 
• Can't digest fat normally

The link between obesity and low vitamin D levels

According to The Australian Bureau of Statistics, 67 per cent of Australian adults are overweight or obese (equivalent to around 12.5 million people). Being overweight may also affect vitamin D status and be related to several chronic health problems.  

The body needs certain enzymes to convert vitamin D into its active form; the enzyme levels between obese and non-obese individuals differ. So, obese people may need more vitamin D than normal-weight people. Also, vitamin D accumulates in excess fat tissues but is not readily available for use by the body when needed. Those who have had gastric bypass surgery since the upper part of the small intestine is removed, which is where vitamin D is absorbed.

Thus, a higher dose of vitamin D supplementation may be necessary to achieve a desirable blood level. 

Getting adequate vitamin D 

Vitamin D is found in two primary forms – D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol); D2 from plants and D3 from animals. D3 is the type that the body makes via the action of sunlight on the skin.

Research suggests that D3 is significantly more effective at raising and maintaining overall vitamin D levels than D2.

Vitamin D levels can be raised by:

Spending time in sunlight – but it is vital to practice safe sun

Enjoy fatty fish and seafood 

Choose mushrooms more often

Include egg yolks in the diet

Eat fortified foods

Take a vitamin D supplement.

So, for many people, taking a vitamin D supplement may be the best way to ensure adequate intake. Safe supplementation of vitamin D should be based on the needs of the individual. Australians should be guided by a healthcare professional to maintain sufficient levels of vitamin D. safely. How? Via safe sun, diet and supplementation when required.

In a recent article, Assistant Director of Pharmacy at Bond University Treasure McGuire wrote in The Conversation, "Taking vitamins and supplements to help recover from COVID-19? An expert advises if it works (10 May 2022)." Treasure McGuire made several statements about complementary medicines. Here we question the validity and present clarity in her arguments.

1. "There is little evidence supplementation in a healthy person prevents respiratory infections such as COVID."

CMA says: However, in Australia, the advertising of products to consumers for the treatment of COVID-19 is prohibited without prior TGA authorisation, which is issued only in limited circumstances and where efficacy can be established.

Complementary medicines on the ARTG are not marketed for Covid, and TGA has no infringements have been issued for these ARTG products advertising.

2. "Ready access to supplements without a prescription from a myriad of online and shopfront sources and the uncontrolled spread of claims that supplements can prevent or treat COVID symptoms, has created an "infodemic".

CMA says: This is not the case in Australia. Australian complementary medicines are subject to rigorous guidelines for claims both on the label and on websites.

The strictly controlled environment in Australia means that legitimate complementary medicines manufacturers in Australia do not recommend any supplement to prevent or treat COVID symptoms.

It is precisely the regulations that Australian manufacturers are bound by that mean that Australians can be confident about claims on an Australian complementary health product.

When taken correctly, these products are lower risk substances that can only make lower risk claims which means they are suitable for consumer self-selection and do not require a prescription.

3. "These claims are fuelled by supplement manufacturers being able to "list" their products on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, with limited evidence of safety or effectiveness."

CMA says: Australian manufacturers would argue that being listed on the ARTG is precisely what holds their exacting standards far above those of products produced overseas.

Australia's risk-based approach has a two-tiered system for the regulation of all medicines, with three avenues for entry on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) for complementary medicines being:

Lower risk medicines can be listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG),  which ensures they are manufactured in tightly quality controlled facilities subject to TGA inspections. Quantities of substances or health claims known to be unsafe are not permitted to be included in these medicines. The inclusion of the ARTG under these strict conditions protects consumers.

Listed assessed medicines can be listed on the ARTG when the TGA has conducted a pre-market assessment for evidence of higher therapeutic claims.

Higher risk medicines must be registered on the ARTG.

This tight regulation means that consumers can be confident about Australian complementary medicines; this cannot be said for products bought overseas. Thus, it may be that the author is quoting overseas products?

4. "Supplements can cause harm in adverse effects, drug interactions and expense. They also add to a patient's medication burden, may delay more effective therapy, or give false hope to the vulnerable."

CMA says: Generally speaking, vitamins and minerals are much safer than conventional drugs.

However, complementary medicines are medicines, and they should be taken according to the instructions on the label or after guidance from a health practitioner such as a suitably trained pharmacist. Complementary medicines can be used as an adjunct to conventional medicine and, in some cases, as a standalone medicine. Again, sound advice from a suitably trained health professional is advised. And as far as giving false hope to the vulnerable, to repeat, the label and surrounding guidance around dosage and stated indications provide an accurate overview of therapeutic and safe use.

5. "Despite the large variety of complementary medicines marketed, most clinical trials to date have studied the impact of vitamin D, vitamin C or zinc to reduce the risk of contracting COVID, improve rates of hospitalisation or death."

CMA says: Complementary medicines on the ARTG are not marketed for Covid, and TGA has issued no infringements for these ARTG products advertising. Clinical trials exist to educate regarding therapeutic potential. 

Some research has found that people with a vitamin D deficiency are more likely to develop a severe or critical COVID-19 response than those with sufficient blood levels. Research regarding nutrients and Covid severity is in its early stages. However, the link between low vitamin C and zinc levels and viral infections such as colds is very well documented.

Australia's complementary medicines industry is committed to high-quality research to underpin ingredients some people have used for thousands of years. Our industry supports high-level research to support the growing evidence base for complementary medicines and their benefits to Australians. However, any therapeutic claim referring to Covid must be pre-approved by the TGA before marketing; therefore, no inappropriate marketing can legally occur without TGA approval, even if any trials are successful.

6. "However, supplements may be beneficial when individuals cannot achieve a balanced and varied diet."

The vast majority of Australians – around 97 per cent – don't achieve a balanced and varied diet.

The complementary medicines industry in Australia has always strongly advocated for people to consume a healthy balanced diet, exercise regularly and avoid high-risk behaviours. Numerous studies have shown – and continue to show – that most people do not. For example, over 90 per cent of Australians do not consume enough vitamin and mineral-rich vegetables and fruits.

7. "High doses or chronic use of COVID supplements have also been linked with adverse effects: vitamin D with muscle pain and loss of bone mass; vitamin A with elevated liver function tests and blurred vision; vitamin E with bleeding risk; plant extracts, magnesium with gastrointestinal effects; and selenium with hair loss and brittle nails."

CMA says: Adhering to the advice on the label prevents overdosing on every medicine – including natural medicines.

Australia regulates complementary health products to the highest standards – standards considered to be a global benchmark. The Department of Health's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) stringently enforces these strict safety and quality regulations. Labels clearly state indications and dosage. Consumers are urged to read and adhere to labels created with both safety and quality in mind.

The TGA, like other regulatory agencies around the world, monitors the safety of medicines marketed in Australia to contribute to a better understanding of their possible adverse effects; this is known as pharmacovigilance and is routine for all medicines, including prescription, OTC and complementary medicines.

The TGA monitors the safety of medicines marketed in Australia using:

• reports of adverse events;
• sharing of information with other regulatory agencies;
• sharing of information with Australian state and territory health authorities;
• Risk Management Plans (RMPs) and Periodic Safety Update Reports
• (PSURs); and
• reviews of literature.

Generally speaking, vitamins and minerals are lower risk than conventional medicines. However, they are natural medicines and should be taken according to the instructions on the label or guidance from a health practitioner.

Despite increasing consumption, side effects remain rare. Thanks to a small but vocal group of anti-complementary medicines detractors, negative headlines make the news intermittently as they take the opportunity to place their views on the agenda; this can be very confusing, and their inaccuracies do a disservice to the community. Australian complementary medicines are manufactured to the highest standards globally, increasingly chosen by Australians and discerning customers overseas. Over 70% of Australians choose one or more complementary medicines to complement their health, and this figure is increasing.

The prevalence of allergies continues to rise, and there are many possible reasons, including increasing airborne pollens. These climate changes affect pollen levels, air pollution and more. A healthy diet and natural compounds in foods may help ease some annoying symptoms or mild allergies.

Histamine and allergy symptoms

Histamine is a chemical that can cause allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny eyes and nose, and it also triggers inflammation. Reducing histamine levels may help alleviate symptoms of allergies hence the popularity of pharmaceutical anti-histamines. Several compounds in food may also help. These include:

Vitamin C

This water-soluble vitamin may reduce histamine production, and research has shown that histamine levels increase when Vitamin C levels decrease. Find vitamin C in veggies and fruits – citrus fruits, berries, and capsicum are particularly rich. Eat raw or lightly cooked to retain as much vitamin C as possible. Grapefruit juice is C-rich, but it can interact with some medications, so check with your health professional.

Bromelain

This protein-digesting enzyme found in pineapples has anti-inflammatory properties. An animal study showed that bromelain's anti-inflammatory effects might benefit people with asthma or other forms of allergic airway disease. The study used bromelain in tablet form but for general health benefits, opt for delicious fresh pineapple – canned pineapple does not contain bromelain as cooking destroys the enzyme.

Magnesium

A component of many body functions, magnesium can decrease histamine levels and fight inflammation that commonly occurs with allergies and asthma. Over six in 10 men and seven in 10 women don't get enough magnesium every day. Good food sources include nuts – try almonds, cashews, and peanuts.

Vitamin D

Most of us know that vitamin D strengthens our bones – but did you know that it also reduces allergy and asthma symptoms? Vitamin D affects the immune system, and lack of it may be significant in the development and severity of allergies. A surprising number of people are Vitamin D deficient worldwide, including in Australia; deficiency may partly contribute to the increase in asthma and allergic diseases worldwide in the last half-century. The primary natural source of vitamin D is safe sun exposure. Some foods such as seafood, salmon, egg yolks and UV exposed mushrooms. Your GP can perform a simple vitamin D test to see if you need more of the sunshine vitamin.

Ginger

There's a reason why ginger tea is so popular to help treat the sniffles – it contains gingerol, which may help dry up mucus, aiding the relief of stuffiness. There is more gingerol in fresh ginger than in the dried kind, so choose to chop, grate or sliver to get the most benefits. Add ginger to soups, curries and bakes – stir some slices into warm water or your favourite tea.

Quercetin

This natural plant chemical is found in plants including red wine, onions, green tea, apples, capsicum and berries.

Turmeric

The bright yellow cousin to ginger that gives Indian curries their vibrant colour, turmeric contains curcumin, which blocks histamine. According to some studies, this may help to ease congestion.

Omega-3 fatty acids

These powerful anti-inflammatories may help ease stuffiness and nasal swelling. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna are high in omega-3s. Aim to put fish on your dish at least twice a week.

Probiotics

The good (beneficial) bacteria that live in your gut have many benefits, and studies are underway to see if they may also affect allergy relief and boost your overall quality of life. Find probiotics in fermented foods, including sauerkraut, tempeh, miso, kimchi and buttermilk.

Mental health challenges affect the physical and emotional wellbeing of millions of us – they affect almost one in two adult Australians at some time, and the pandemic has exacerbated poor mental health. Now, a new book explores practical ways to support mental health with herbs and supplements. Mental Wellbeing – The Essential Guide to Using Herbs and Nutritional Supplements is the latest hands-on guidebook written by respected integrative medicine leader Dr Lesley Braun.

Mental wellbeing is dynamic – the Mental Wellbeing Spiral demonstrates that it can improve as well as deteriorate.

Growing need for services

Chatting to a professor of psychiatry, Lesley wasn't surprised to hear that the waiting lists for psychiatric services had ballooned during the pandemic. She learnt that new patients might have to wait up to two years for a professional consultation.

"When it comes to supporting mental wellbeing, there are so many tools in our space that can make a significant impact," says Lesley. "Diet, lifestyle and supplement protocols can be effective and safe. Following the correct protocol for the individual may mean that by the time someone on a long waiting list gets to the top, symptoms may have improved significantly," she says.

Stress levels, sleep problems and burnout

"The book focuses on rising stress levels, sleep problems and burnout; it does not focus on serious depression or the level of challenges that necessitate psychiatric care but feelings that are nevertheless uncomfortable and are very common," explains Lesley.  

Applied and evidence-backed

This practical guide includes features and dosages designed to help health professionals understand the therapeutic power of herbs and nutritional supplements in an applied and evidence-backed format.

"The book is for healthcare practitioners," says Lesley, "doctors, pharmacists, naturopaths and more. The idea is that they all see multiple people. When good results are seen, messages get amplified and spread by one of the most effective communication processes around – word of mouth," Lesley explains.

The self-care space

"We know that there is a whole raft of options to try before prescribing certain drugs. A person may consult their GP, but the professional may not have an in-depth knowledge of natural medicines. Pharmacists can recommend lifestyle factors and have shelves full of nutritional and herbal supplements. But they may not know how to pull together an individualised program. Of course, naturopaths know and are important educators. But there is a lot that can be done in the self-care space. For all, though, practical, accurate knowledge and advice are key," Lesley says.

A whole section is dedicated to quantifying stress – so that it is clear whether symptoms are improving or worsening. Introducing the Mental Wellbeing Spiral ...

The Mental Wellbeing Spiral and determining stress levels

After researching published papers, Lesley opted for a validated survey instrument consisting of ten questions that called for a retrospective recall over one month – these questions relate to behavioural and stress responses. This practical and quick tool can be used at home or in the clinic. Responses allow the individual to determine where they might sit on the Mental Wellbeing Spiral, whether protocols are effective or may need manipulation, and whether professional help is required.

The idea and the tools were put before the Blackmores Institute Naturopathic and Pharmacy Advisory Boards. The boards agreed that mental wellbeing is dynamic and that the Spiral made sense; they decided that this little tool might even fill a much-needed gap.

This practical resource is fully referenced, practitioner-focused, and written similarly to Lesley's successful Herbs and Natural Supplements book.

It features:

• The theoretical theory of stress and the stress response
• A clinical framework surrounding stress and mental wellbeing
• Easy-to-read descriptive reviews of the clinical evidence and recommendations for practice
• Dietary and lifestyle recommendations should be a standard part of nearly every treatment aiming to achieve better mental wellbeing.

This one-stop ready reckoner can be purchased at the Blackmores Institute website, showcasing what the institute is doing in this space.  

Clinicians and retailers in the community love the practicality of the new publication, which helps make selecting forms and correct dosage while being aware of any potential safety issues simple.

Now that this important new feature is complete, Lesley is open to suggestions for another topic or area – let her know!

It’s a fact. Australian men are more likely to get sick from serious health problems than women and mortality from almost every non-sex-specific health problem is higher in men than women. Plus, men visit the doctor less frequently, have shorter visits, and only attend when their illness is in its later stages compared to women. This Movember, we’re asking you just a few quick questions to test your knowledge of men’s health and urge you to make better health choices for you or for the men in your life.

1. Too much weight around the middle is a health risk – but how much is too much? A circumference of over 94cm (90 cm for Asian men) represents a hazardous waist size.

A true

B false

Answer A true

Excess body fat around the middle, called visceral fat, coats the body organs increasing the risk for chronic disease. Australia's Department of Health reports that measuring 102 centimetres or more means a "greatly increased risk".

2, Suicide is more common in men than women.

A True

B False

Answer A True.

In 2020, the AIHW reported males aged between 40–54 accounted for over one quarter (27%) of deaths by suicide by males. If you or anyone you know needs help:

• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
• Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or its COVID-19 support service 1800 512 348
• Headspace on 1800 650 890
• ReachOut at au.reachout.com
• Brother to Brother on 1800 435 799

3. More men die of skin cancer than any other.

A True

B False

B False.

According to Man Up! Prostate cancer is the most significant cause of death; 3,500 men died from Prostate Cancer in 2020. More than 200,000 men live with prostate cancer in Australia. Queensland has the highest incidence of prostate cancer than any other state in Australia. Prostate cancer may not show any symptoms in its early stages but symptoms can include:

• difficulty in urination 
• slow interrupted flow of urine
• frequent passing of urine, including at night
• incontinence.

If you are over 50 or have any symptoms, talk to your doctor about testing. 

4. Physical stress can cause magnesium loss.

A True

B False

A.    True. Physical and stress can cause magnesium loss – but so can mental stress. Studies have linked low magnesium levels to higher rates of depression. Magnesium plays a crucial role in brain function, mood regulation, and stress responses. It may affect the progression and onset of depression and anxiety. Stress has a significant role in chronic illness, including cardiovascular disease and certain cancers – a US study showed that up to 80% of doctor's visits might have a stress-related component. 

5. Men should exercise for at least an hour per day.

A True

B False

B False. Adults – including men – should get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most, preferably all, days of the week. Moderate-intensity physical activities include walking briskly, mowing the lawn, dancing, swimming, and bicycling. Find one or more things you enjoy, and make them part of each day.

Wishing you a happy and healthy men's health month and beyond! 

Herbal medicine, also known as botanical medicine, phytotherapy or phytomedicine, is the use of plants for healing. The leaves, flowers, stems, seeds, roots, fruits or bark may be used and ancient scriptures show that the Roman, Egyptian, Persian and Hebrew people all used herbal medicine to treat diverse illnesses.

The only form of medicine of the majority of the world

Every global culture has its own herbal remedies based on local plants and knowledge passed on over generations. Some examples include indigenous Australian, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine, Native American and European remedies. According to WHO, although herbal medicine is classed as ‘complementary’ in most Western countries, it remains the only form of medicine widely available to most people globally.

Pharmaceuticals’ herbal medicine roots

Many modern prescription medicines have their roots in herbal medicine and herbs work in a similar way to many pharmaceuticals. For example, aspirin is derived from the bark of the willow tree, the anti-malaria medicine, quinine, is extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree, morphine is produced from the opium poppy and CBD oil is derived from the marijuana plant.

Plants contain a large number of naturally occurring chemicals (constituents) with different biological activity. While pharmaceutical medicines use just one active ingredient, herbalists use herbs in their complete form, retaining the balance of a variety of constituents contained in the plant. Plus, herbalists believe that plants can effectively treat many conditions with far fewer unwanted side effects that are often seen in conventional pharmaceutical treatments. However, herbs can be very potent and, if misused, they can cause serious adverse effects.

Regulation of herbal medicines

Medicinal products containing herbs are regulated in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). If ingredients are deemed higher risk due to toxicity, likely length of use, side effects, interactions or other features, they will be classified a registered medicine. In this case, the product will have the designation AUST R on the label. The product can be labelled a listed medicine with an AUST L label if deemed low risk.

Buyer beware

The TGA publishes safety alerts/advisories on its website about medicines of concern and advises consumers to exercise extreme caution in buying medicines over the Internet. This is because medicines bought from overseas may not meet the same standards as medicines approved in Australia; they may even contain unauthorised and potentially harmful ingredients.

The takeout

Herbal medicines have a very long history of use all over the world. Australian supplementary medicines are the most highly regulated in the word and a qualified health professional can provide useful guidance pertinent to individual needs.

Australia’s complementary medicines industry is evolving to meet the needs of consumers and the Covid pandemic has altered the choices Australians are making. Read more here.

The skin bumps and pimples that are acne are too familiar to many of us.

Acne vulgaris affects more than 90% of young Australians aged 16–18 years and it can lead to self-esteem and emotional issues. Many factors contribute to acne development including inflammation, excess sebum and keratin production, acne-causing bacteria, hormones, blocked pores, hormones, medications, stress, age, certain foods and more. Acne bacteria may turn a clogged pore into an inflamed pimple.

Acne lesions can increase the activity of pro-inflammatory factors on the skin (such as interleukin-1), which then trigger inflammation.

A range of treatments including gentle skin care for mild acne either unblock the sebaceous ducts or act as antibacterial agents.

Diet and nutrients may also help. Some researchers suggest that restricting refined carbohydrates, fast food, dairy, saturated fats and trans fats could be helpful. 

Dietary factors that may help alleviate acne include:

Paleolithic-style eating: Paleo diets are rich in lean meat, vegetables, fruit and nuts and low in grains, dairy and legumes has been linked with a reduced incidence of acne. 

Mediterranean-style diets: Rich in vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, legumes, fish and olive oil and low in dairy and saturated fats; this kind of eating may reduce the severity of acne.

Omega-3s: These are essential fatty acids (which means the body can't make them for itself). They have a potent anti-inflammatory action; regular consumption is linked to a reduced risk of acne. A deficiency of omega-3 fats is related to the promotion of acne. A randomized, controlled trial in 45 people with mild to moderate acne found that taking 2,000G of EPA and DHA supplements daily for ten weeks significantly decreased inflammatory and noninflammatory acne lesions.

Probiotics: These promote a healthy gut and balanced microbiome, which is linked to reduced inflammation and a lower risk of acne. Researchers concluded that the skin microbiome, or bacterial skin balance, has more to do with acne development than a single type of bacteria. Probiotic foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles and kefir. 

Turmeric: The active ingredient in turmeric is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial curcumin. Studies suggest that it may inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Vitamins A, D, E and zinc: These play essential roles in skin and immune health and may help prevent acne.