Molasses Cures & Uses:

Molasses Cures:

Very recently I have come across a web site wherein people have posted their experiences with the usage of Molasses as a health food having marvelous healing properties.It has been reported that blackstrap molasses cures tumors, fibroid tumors, anxiety, constipation, edema, heart palpitations, anemia, arthritic pain, joint pain, and acne, just to name a few. It has also been reported that molasses turns gray hair back to its original color and is a wonderful skin softener! Read few such experiences below:


"10/17/2007: Maureen (napsac2@yahoo.com) from Portland, ME writes: "I started taking the blackstrap molasses to slow down the white hair growth. I think that has helped to some degree. But, what I have really noticed is my menstrals....much more pleasant. Less painful and not so heavy. What a pleasant surprise. Usually my breasts hurt too...but not this time. I think I will be taking this forever. Now, if my little white hairs go away...well, this would be perfect!!"


"1/18/2008: Patty from Covina, California writes: "When I heard about molasses taking white hair off I could't believe it. But I though it was worth to try. every morning in a 8 glass of water I mix two table spoons of the blackstrap molasses, two table spoon of raw honey, and two table spoon of apple cider and drink it. I have to be honest the taste I don't like very much, but the energy i get from that is tremendous, and not only that but because of the apple cider keeps me away from any type of viruses including flu. This is a great thing I am so glad I learn about it because it been already 5 months since I started taking it and almost all my white hair is gone!!! I will take it for the rest of my life, thanks to my Health book I purchase!!!

"For more details visit the following web site:http://www.earthclinic.com/Remedies/molasses.html
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MULTIPLE CURES REPORTED USING MOLASSES


7/21/2007: Tish from Chicago, Il writes: "My period has been always heavy that my hemoglobin level is always low that I have to take iron and shot every 2 weeks. ITs hard also to work and go to the bathroom every now and then. When I bleed it like for 10 days and more. I was diagnosed with fibroid just 2 months ago and I found your website just weeks before my surgery and its my second day of my period. I started taking the molasses and the next day my period slow down and no blood clotting and it stopped after 5 days. My daughter is always suffering from constipation and I recommended her this and she said she never pooh like this before.. THANK YOU!"


6/21/2007: Susan ) from Ripley, WV writes: "I've been taking black strap Molasses for about 6 months. One thing it's done for me is my fingernails grows fast. I never had pretty nails before now I can grow them. It has to be the Molasses. Still waiting for the fibroid tumors to go, having faith they will. I've taken apple cider vineger for 40 years. It's how I keep my weight down. I'm glad we have this website to check out. I've also used Cayenne Pepper daily for about 3 years. Something is keeping me healthy, so I'll keep doing it. Thanks to all of you that take time to post. age 72, feel like 40"


3/27/2007: ROBERT from New Glasgow, Nova Scotia writes: "Molasses (black strap) for joint and throat: arthritic joints and sore throat, plus it's a great energy producer. I would suggest an unsulfered black strap molasses."


2/28/2007: Jennifer from Greenfield, WI writes, "I went to the health food store to ask about what I could give my 15 month-old son for constipation. They suggested 1-2 tsp. of blackstrap molasses in his bottle. I bought the bottle, came home, came to this website and discovered all different things this stuff is good for. I am 8 months pregnant. I was having a lot of trouble sleeping and developing symptoms of restless leg syndrome (common in pregnancy). I decided to give it a shot. Long story short, my son is pooping like a champ and I started sleeping through the night without any jerking limbs ON THE FIRST DAY! I ran out for one day, and I had a horrible night sleep. I am amazed and delighted."

3/14/2007: Helen from Long Island, United States writes: "I have been taking molasses in warm milk and agree it is like a latte. It really tastes good. Also, my leg pain has lessened and I can go up stairs and walk much better. I am also taking the vinegar and baking soda which I didn't think was doing much, but when I added the molasses drink I think it made a big difference. (My doctor says I have very bad arthritis. This is the first relief I have had. These remedies are highly recommended by me."



2/11/2007: Kim from Westport, MA writes, "Hi there I have been reading and applying the remedies on this site now for over a week with positive results. Since I have added taking 1 tablespoon full of blackstrap molasses every morning before or after my acv concoction, I have noticed something different about the hair growth I suffer from on my face. It I feel has retarded the growth, slowing it down so I don't have to pluck so often. Could it be true? I have suffered for years and years with this condition, I think due to polycystic syndrome. Is it possible that possibly the magnesium in the molasses is affecting my hormones in such a positive way? All I know is, I will keep taking the acv and backing soda for general well-being and pain reduction, along with my tablespoon of black strap molasses to help with female issues and help reduce pain as well. I have noticed my knee pain that was really bad, has almost totally gone away. When I mention what I do to others they simply shake there head roll there eyes, and decide its not for them. But I have to say my excitement and testimonials are making some wonder! All I know is my contact dermatitis disappeared, and pain has greatly diminished and now facial hair slowing down...I am waiting for my body to begin showing me more signs of all of the natural elements being to cure/heal& be gone! I am in awe of this site and appreciate all the feedback I read. Kim"



12/27/2006: Mitch from Honey Brook, PA writes, "I work in quality control at a molasses company in PA. Since, working here I have found a ton of sources for the health benefits of blackstrap molasses. My wife and I have been taking it now for about 4 months and have not been sick. She used to get sore necks and since we started taking the molasses, she hasn't had any. Also, a friend of ours that we got hooked on molasses had been taking arthritis medicine for the last 6 months. He's been taking blackstrap molasses for a few weeks and just recently stopped taking the arthritis medicine. If anybody is interested, you can buy blackstrap molasses off my company's website www.goldenbarrel.com and have it sent right to you."

12/12/2006: Jeanne from Monroe, MI writes, "blackstrap molasses cures restless leg syndrome, arthritic pain and swelling, joint pains, and increased bone density."


7/7/2006: Claire from the UK writes, "i had a problem with my left ankle giving way and also suffered badly from have to strap up. Also my carpal syndrome was incredibly painful especially at night. Thankfully i don't have pacarpal syndrome. i was not sure if the molasses would work but i read the comments here and thought i would give it a go. I have been taking 3 tsp regularly since 3 weeks ago. I am amazed -- it has cured my ankle which i no longer in anymore. Finally i was astonished to notice that i had actually lost 10 lbs in weight. i think it has cured my sugar craving as i don't feel as hungry anymore. I have been telling my family and friends to take it as it's like a miracle cure for many things. Also my skin is fresh looking, nails are stronger and my hair is shinier."

4/24/2006:Maggie from Bartlesville, Oklahoma writes, "1 Tblsp. blackstrap molasses, three times a day cured heart palpitations,and edema in my hands and ankles. Also my fingernails are much stronger. During my 4 day stay at the hospital for hip surgery, I was given 2 potassium pills as my potassium was very low. When i arrived home, i gave blackstrap molasses a try. Never dreaming that in less than a week my ankles and hands didn't swell anymore, and the heart flutters that i had for many years were gone. Oh , I almost forgot, I now have fingernails. I'm telling everyone i meet about my miracle cure."


For mor information please visit:
http://www.thctalk.com/cannabis-forum/showthread.php?63298-Blackstrap-Mollasses-A-Whole-Load-Of-Info    

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What is Molasses:

Molasses or treacle is a thick syrup by-product from the processing of the sugarcane or sugar beet into sugar. (In some parts of the US, molasses also refers to sorghum syrup.) The word molasses comes from the Portuguese word melaço, which comes from mel, the Portuguese word for "honey". The quality of molasses depends on the maturity of the sugar cane or beet, the amount of sugar extracted, and the method of extraction. It is made from the third boiling of the sugar syrup and is therefore the concentrated byproduct left over after the sugar's sucrose has been crystallized.

Nutrients in
Blackstrap Molasses
2.00 tsp (13.67 grams)

Nutrient                              % Daily Value 

 manganese18%

 copper14%

 iron  13.2%

 calcium11.7%

 potassium9.7%

 magnesium7.3%

 vitamin B65%

 selenium3.4%

Calories (32)1%

This chart graphically details the %DV that a serving of Blackstrap molasses provides for each of the nutrients of which it is a good, very good, or excellent source according to our Food Rating System. Additional information about the amount of these nutrients provided by Blackstrap molasses can be found in the Food Rating System Chart. A link that takes you to the In-Depth Nutritional Profile for Blackstrap molasses, featuring information over 80 nutrients, can be found under the Food Rating System Chart.

For more details please visit the following web site:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molasses

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Uses of Molasses:

Do you know there are more than 125 uses for Molasses!
Fact & Fiction, judge for yourself!

Find below some of them:

1. Molasses is used by the Potash industry to clean up groundwater.
2. Used in the manufacture of processed tobaccos.
3. Used in beer making.
4. Added to white sugar to make 'brown' sugar.
5. To make licorice candy.
6. Used in cattle feed for taste & nutrition.
7. As a hair tonic - to darken hair.
8. To aid flowering in the growing of marijuana.
9. As an aid to plant growth.
10. As a honey substitute.
11. Mixed with water for easing pain in joints.
12. For upset stomach a mixture of molasses and ginger.
13. For hiccups a mixture of molasses and pepper.
14. To alleviate ear-ache - a mixture of molasses & vinegar.

Up date as on 20.6.2013.

15. In the treatment of exzema - 2 teaspoons of molasses in milk twice a day.

16. As a treatment of baldness - massage molasses into the scalp.

17. To treat constipation - two teaspoons of molasses as needed.

18. In ice-cubes for drinks - mix molasses and water to make ice-cubes for iced tea or rum drinks.  Delicious!

19. A mixture of molasses and water promotes rose blooms.

20. Dip a child’s finger into a bowl of molasses & the bleeding will stop & 
     licking off the molasses will further sooth the situation!.

21. To restore colour to fingernails - rub on hands.

22. It has been reported that a Tablespoon of molasses daily will prevent prostate cancer.

23. Tablespoons of Molasses nightly to correct pale complexion.

24. As a hair conditioner - massage molasses into hair and scalp.
     Cover with plastic &
     then towel. Leave on for 20 minutes.

25. As a sweetener in dog food.

26. Used in cattle feed for taste & nutrition.

27. As a topping for ice-cream.

28. To add gloss & shine to your pet’s coat-add molasses to their food daily.

29. Spruce beer with molasses is a special treat.




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More update as on 28.6.2013.


30. Good Source of Selenium

Blackstrap molasses is a good source of selenium, providing about 3.5- 5% of the DV per 2 tablespoons. Selenium plays a key role in thyroid function, antioxidant protection, cancer prevention, cardiovascular health and inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Selenium deficiency can lead to these and other health conditions.

Selenium and thyroid health

When it comes to supporting health through nutrition, there’s a powerful nutrient that seems to be one of nature’s best-kept secrets — selenium. It’s a mineral we all need in small amounts, but its effects can be huge! Selenium protects us against many health issues associated with aging, such as osteoarthritis and certain forms of cancer. But more than that — it’s crucial to the everyday function of our thyroid glands. That’s really what makes this nutrient important to women — because they are much more prone to thyroid problems. Selenium is easy to get excited about because it shows so clearly how our food choices impact how we feel  and our overall health. So let’s take a quick look at this often-overlooked nutrient.

What role does selenium play in thyroid health?

If we have low levels of selenium in our bodies, it’s harder both for the thyroid to make its hormonesand for the body to convert thyroid hormones into the form that’s needed by our cells. That’s because selenium is a fundamental component of various seleno-proteins, molecules essential to the body’s ability to create and use thyroid hormones. But selenium is not just critical to the production of thyroid hormones — it’s also a key regulator of thyroid hormone levels. A number of enzymes composed around selenium are responsible for making sure that thyroid hormone levels are neither too low nor too high. Some of these enzymes, called seleno-de-iodinases, maintain appropriate T3 levels in the liver, kidney, thyroid, and brain cells. Another enzyme, glutathione peroxidase, helps to limit T4 when its levels get too high. Again, when there is too little selenium available for the body to make these enzymes, our bodies’ ability to maintain appropriate levels of the thyroid’s key hormones can suffer — and our overall health suffers too.

Selenium and iodine — natural thyroid partners

All of the problems that come with selenium deficiency are compounded by the fact that selenium works in tandem with another nutrient better known for its role in thyroid health: iodine. Simply put, selenium is responsible for the properly recycling of iodine in the body, so a person with too little selenium as well as too little iodine is much more likely to develop a significant thyroid imbalance.

There is no doubt that iodine and selenium are the major players when it comes to trace elements. But there are three trace metals — zinc, iron, and copper — that play vital roles in healthy thyroid function as well. Research has shown that both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can sometimes result in a zinc deficiency. When zinc is low in the body, TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), T4, and T3 can in turn become low in the body.

Copper is a metal that is needed in trace amounts to produce thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). It’s also required for T4, so when your body’s supply of copper is poor, your rate of T4 production will go down. T4 keeps your body’s cholesterol synthesis on track, and some scientists believe copper deficiency could be what makes people with hypothyroidism more prone to developing high cholesterol and heart problems.

As for iron, research is showing that there is a link between iron deficiency and decreased thyroid function. If you are both anemic and iodine-deficient, supplementing with iodine alone is unlikely to resolve the thyroid imbalance — you will also need to replenish your iron stores.

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To read more, please visit:
http://www.womentowomen.com/hypothyroidism/foods-naturalthyroidhealth.aspx
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31. Skin Health

Testimonials claim that blackstrap molasses is great for skin health and may help to cure eczema, psoriasis, acne and other skin conditions. Blackstrap molasses contains powerful antioxidants, which are believed to contribute to good skin health and lower the risk of lines, wrinkles and other skin conditions associated with premature aging.

32. Good Source of Vitamin B6

One tablespoon of blackstrap molasses provides 7.5% the DV of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 is needed for the immunity, the nervous system, cell formation, blood health and energy production. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

33. Alternative Sweetener

Blackstrap molasses can sweeten food without many of the negative side effects of regular sugar and artificial sweeteners. It is very low on the glycemic index and appears to be a healthier option for diabetic and prediabetic people, requiring very little insulin production and altering blood sugar levels far less than regular cane sugar. It is also rich with vital nutrients, where cane sugar offers only fattening carbohydrates.

34. Weight Loss

Blackstrap molasses provides many vitamins and minerals and boosts energy while containing zero fat and very few calories. This makes it a healthy alternative to sugar and a good addition to an active, low fat weight loss program.

35. Stomach and Digestive Problems

Anecdotal evidence suggests that blackstrap molasses may help with stomach and digestive problems. Testimonials claim that it can help to soothe stomach aches, help to cure stomach ulcers and may be useful in treating irritable bowel and other digestive conditions, including constipation and diarrhea.

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Update as on 05.07.2013.


36. Good Source of Copper

Blackstrap molasses is a good source of Copper, providing about 14 % of the DV per 2  tablespoon.

Although the anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of copper have been recognized since ancient times, modern science is now expressing an increased interest into the function of copper in human health.

"Copper is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and other components of the blood system, and for the healthy growth, development, and maintenance of bone, connective tissue, brain, heart, and many other body organs. Copper is involved in the formation, synthesis, and release of life-sustaining proteins and enzymes which produce cellular energy, regulate body functions such as nerve transmission, blood clotting, oxygen transport, and stimulate the immune system to fight infections, repair injured tissues, and promote healing. Copper also functions to neutralize Afree-radicals@, which are unstable oxygen byproducts that are formed as a result of normal body processes or exposure to environmental pollutants and can cause severe damage to cells.


Research shows that elevated levels of copper are found in the blood plasma of individuals suffering from a variety of diseased conditions, including arthritis, cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The same is true for patients suffering from wounds of various kinds. These findings suggest that the redistribution of copper within the body is a natural occurrence, playing a significant role in the bodies’ own healing response to diseased states and physiological stress. Based on these findings it has now been suggested that copper complexes have additional medicinal properties that are fundamental to the healing process. Chelated copper complexes have been approved for a number of anti-inflammatory oral medications and copper metallo-organic complexes have been used successfully to treat arthritis and other chronic degenerative diseases.

It has now been recognized that copper deficiency is becoming a serious health concern in all countries and all age groups. Symptoms of copper deficiency include general weakness, impaired respiration; skin sores, decreased immune function, elevated LDL cholesterol and reduced HDL cholesteabsorption. Copper deficiency affects the cardiovascular system, causing extensive damage to the heart and arteries and can cause early graying of the hair and loss of skin color, as the pigment melanin is copper- dependent.

Copper, an essential component of many enzymes, plays a role in a wide range of physiological processes including iron utilization, elimination of free radicals, development of bone and connective tissue, and the production of the skin and hair pigment called melanin. Numerous health problems can develop when copper intake is inadequate, including iron deficiency anemia, ruptured blood vessels, osteoporosis, joint problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, brain disturbances, elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol and reduced HDL (good) cholesterol levels, irregular heartbeat, and increased susceptibility to infections. Using two teaspoons of blackstrap molasses to sweeten your morning cereal and the coffee or tea you drink during the day will supply you with 14.0% of the daily recommended value for copper. 

Arthritis and Copper

Iron accumulation in the joints due to copper deficiency can be a major contributor to rheumatoid arthritis.Several Studies have reported the relationship of copper deficiency and arthritis where in,  in a copper deficient diet, the tissue iron levels were found to be over four hundred percent of normal. It has been stated that rheumatoid arthritis has become prevalent within the past century due to industrialization, i.e. the increased production and use of  steel and aluminium etc. The low incidence of rheumatoid arthritis during pre-industrial times may have been due to the protection by copper commonly used in cooking and eating utensils during that period. Blackstrap molasses probably provides the same protection and helps fight arthritis. 

Copper fights Gray Hair

Anecdotal evidence suggests that taking blackstrap molasses can help to slow and even reverse the proliferation of gray hair. One tablespoon of blackstrap molasses contains over 20% the DV of copper, which is essential for hair pigmentation. It is believed to cause gray hair to fall out and be replaced by healthy hair of one's natural color.

Stimulates Hair Growth

A daily regimen of blackstrap molasses can help to stimulate new hair growth. While there is little scientific evidence to support this claim, anecdotal evidence suggests that it works. Testimonials suggest that ingesting two teaspoons per day over the course of several months encourages new hair to grow and existing hair to become thicker and stronger.

Stronger, Thicker Hair

The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that blackstrap molasses contains all contribute to the strength and thickness of the hair. While it can't change the hair that's already on your head, it may help to improve the strength of new growth.

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Update as on 10.7.2013

37. Blackstrap Molasses is a good source of  Magnesium

Role of Magnesium in human body

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and is essential to good health. Approximately 50% of total body magnesium is found in bone. The other half is found predominantly inside cells of body tissues and organs. Only 1% of magnesium is found in blood, but the body works very hard to keep blood levels of magnesium constant.  

Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong. Magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and is known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. There is an increased interest in the role of magnesium in preventing and managing disorders such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Dietary magnesium is absorbed in the small intestines. Magnesium is excreted through the kidneys.

The U.S. recommended daily allowance (RDA) for magnesium (Mg) is 350 mg (milligrams) per day for men and 280 mg/day for women. Most researchers studying hypomagnesemia (not enough Mg) are now convinced the RDA is insufficient to maintain an adequate amount of biologically available Mg for all body functions. Magnesium is necessary for normal functioning of over 300 enzymes that are present in your body. (Enzymes are chemical substances necessary for normal metabolism).

Without sufficient magnesium the body loses its capacity to move potassium into the cells where it plays very important roles in the maintenance of good health. Magnesium is also needed to shift calcium into and out of cells. Cells require a small amount of calcium, however too much calcium is a problem. Magnesium serves to regulate these essential cellular minerals.

These effects, and many more, impact a wide array of body functions. Potassium and magnesium are the primary cations (positively charged elements) inside cells, whereas calcium is the major mineral in bone.

Thousands of years ago our ancestors ate foods high in magnesium and low in calcium. Because calcium supplies were scarce and the need for this vital mineral was great, it was effectively stored by the body. Magnesium, on the other hand, was abundant and readily available, in the form of nuts, seeds, grains, and vegetables, and did not need to be stored internally. If you do not have enough available magnesium (magnesium deficiency), it slowly degrades your general health in a variety of ways. Magnesium deficiency is directly linked to heart disease. Moreover, because of the many ways your body employs magnesium, it plays a role in diabetes, cancer, stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis, asthma, kidney stones, migraine, leg and menstrual cramps, eclampsia, PMS, chronic fatigue syndrome, tetany, and a host of other problems. How magnesium deficiency manifests itself in your body depends upon hereditary, susceptibilities and combinations of other conditions.

Diseases and Issues Associated With Magnesium Deficiency

Heart Disease

Magnesium deficiency plays several critical roles in the maintenance of a healthy heart. Heart muscle cells require magnesium as do smooth muscle cells and elastica in coronary arteries.

Mitral Valve Prolapse

The mitral valve or bicuspid valve is a heart valve that consists of two triangular flaps between the left auricle and ventricle. Magnesium deficiency has been linked to a condition where the mitral valve malfunctions due to slippage from its normal position. Mitral valve prolapse causes the heart to become less effective in pumping blood and some researchers believe magnesium helps to prevent and even correct this condition.

Cancer

There is evidence that magnesium deficiency plays a role in oncogenesis in certain types of cancers. Changes in cell chemistry have a direct impact on RNA and DNA. Magnesium plays a role in polypeptide chains and is suspected of performing a role as an oxygen free radical scavenger.

Diabetes

The role of magnesium in diabetes has been scientifically well established for over 35 year. Magnesium influences insulin production and function.  Magnesium has been effectively used to treat brittle diabetics. (Diabetics who frequently oscillate between high and low blood sugar.)

In Europe, magnesium has long been used to treat insulin resistant diabetes and decompensated diabetics developing acidosis and ketosis. (Acidosis is low blood and body tissue pH. Ketosis is an abnormal increase in ketone bodies).

Asthma and Allergies

The role of magnesium in lung function is currently being investigated by a number of researchers. Low magnesium intake is strongly correlated with the etiology (causes) of asthma and chronic obstructive airway diseases. Patients treated with simple dietary magnesium supplementation have reported marked improvement. Inhalation of soluble magnesium compounds has also been reported to provide relief.

Magnesium is also reported to suppress histamine production. Some allergy sufferers have reported relief through dietary magnesium supplements.

Arthritis

Because magnesium suppresses PTH (a mineral transport hormone) and stimulates calcitonin (a polypeptide of 32 amino acid residues), it helps remove calcium from soft tissues eliminating some forms of arthritis. Copper is a metal ion long suspected as playing a role in preventing arthritis. Copper is complementary to magnesium uptake and may therefore reduce calcitic arthritis by providing more magnesium absorption.

Osteoporosis

Research has clearly established a link between osteoporosis and magnesium deficiency. Although most women have heard of the need for calcium supplementation following menopause, few are aware that magnesium is equally important. In fact, increasing calcium without increasing magnesium can actually cause more harm than good. According to Seelig and other researchers, calcium to magnesium ratios in excess of 2:1 should be avoided.

Strong evidence suggests that women with osteoporosis have a deficiency of a chemical that is made when they take twice as much magnesium as calcium. In fact, he found that when calcium intake is decreased, it is utilized better than when it is present in high levels. It is advocated taking more magnesium to correct calcium deficiency related diseases.

Kidney Stones

Seelig and Bunce have clinically proven the relationship between kidney stones and magnesium deficiency.

Migraine

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to the onset of migraine headaches. Magnesium plays a role in vasodilation and is thought to behave like a calcium channel blocker at the cellular level. 

Eclampsia

Magnesium deficiency has been directly linked to eclampsia, a condition which causes life threatening convulsions and severe hypertension which may necessitate early termination of pregnancy with low birth weight babies. Mg treatment is classic for control of Eclampsia.

More recently magnesium has been shown to decrease the likelihood of pre-term birth. It has been suggested that pregnant mothers supplement their magnesium intake to meet the high magnesium needs placed on them by the fetus. 

Menstrual Cramps and PMS

Increasing dietary magnesium often decreases menstrual cramping as well as PMS. Calcium causes muscles to contract, while magnesium helps them to relax. Dietary calcium gives temporary relief of menstrual cramps. However, calcium also depletes the body of magnesium and ensures cramping will occur in the following month if magnesium is not replenished.

Athletic Stamina

Magnesium supplementation has been used to enhance the performance of endurance athletes such as long distance marathoners, swimmers, and cross country skiers. Magnesium shifts the cellular energy production from anaerobic to aerobic. This is a more efficient mode of energy production and greatly reduces production of lactic acid.

Triglyceride and LDL/HDL Reduction

Dietary magnesium supplementation has been reported to reduce triglyceride levels and reduce the ratio of LDL to HDL. These are two critical factors closely related to heart disease.

Skin Tone

It has been reported that Mg supplementation may play a role in maintenance of skin flexibility and tone. Connective tissue is reportedly more flexible when magnesium levels are correct.

Bone Mass and Flexibility

Magnesium imparts flexibility to bone predominately because of its role in the bone matrix. (The organic portion of the bone.) Magnesium behaves like flexible glue in bones. Industrial cements produced from magnesium rather than calcium are up to 6 times stronger and more flexible than conventional calcium-based Portland cement.

Tetany

Farmers currently supplement cattle feed with MgO to prevent grass tetany, milk fever, or grass staggers. Loss of brain magnesium induces cerebral dysfunction, convulsions and death in beef and dairy cattle. Similar conditions are observed in hypomagnesiemic human patients.

Cerebral Palsy

A very interesting and exciting new finding is that women with other complications, that were treated with magnesium, had 1/7 the likelihood of their low birth weight babies developing cerebral palsy.

Leg Cramps

Leg and muscle cramping can be caused by magnesium deficiency through production of lactic acid or reduction of arterial blood flow. Both can be improved and often eliminated through dietary magnesium supplementation.

Stress

Magnesium is used by some doctors to treat mental stress. On the periodic chart, magnesium appears near lithium. Lithium is often used to treat stress and related disorders. Magnesium plays a role in mediating calcium dependent synapse reactions relating to neurotransmissions.

Delirium Tremors

Alcohol depletes magnesium and can cause magnesium deficiency. This has been tied to hallucinations and convulsions recognized as delirium tremors. Alzheimer’s and dementia are also suspected to be linked to magnesium deficiency.

Blackstrap Molasses and Diabetics

First, Molasses needs to be understood in the right prospective. It is a waste by product from processing of sugar cane into table sugar, but a source of vital human nutrients which is lacking in most of our daily diets. Molasses provides a sweetener that is safe for most glucose or blood sugar level issues and has several naturally available minerals. It has been used to help remedy many unhealthy conditions. one such condition is described below:

It is well established that synthetically derived or composed mineral supplements are not as beneficial as whole food sources naturally nutrient dense. Iron supplements, for example, tend to create constipation and other digestive problems. Minerals are not only removed by processing foods, they tend to be lacking in depleted top soils used for raising crops. Sugarcane roots go very deep, up to 4 mts, into the mineral rich soil.

Many health sources claim that minerals and enzymes are even more important than vitamins for our health. For example, magnesium is essential to the metabolism and synthesis of almost all the other minerals and vitamins. 

Harmful effects of Refined table sugar are very well known as it creates blood sugar and insulin instability while providing no nutrients. Actually, refined sugar pulls nutrients, especially minerals, out of the body if consumed enough.

Blackstrap molasses has a low glycemic index. This means the glucose and carbohydrates are metabolized slowly, demanding less insulin production and stabilizing blood sugar. The result is less lipids or fats occurring in the blood. And it actually means that your chances of becoming diabetic while satisfying your sweet tooth is virtually nil.

Magnesium and diabetes

Diabetes is a disease resulting in insufficient production and/or inefficient use of insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. Insulin helps convert sugar and starches in food into energy to sustain life. There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children and adolescents, and results from the body's inability to make insulin. Type 2 diabetes, which is sometimes referred to as adult-onset diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. It is usually seen in adults and is most often associated with an inability to use the insulin made by the pancreas. Obesity is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. In recent years, rates of type 2 diabetes have increased along with the rising rates of obesity.

Magnesium plays an important role in carbohydrate metabolism. It may influence the release and activity of insulin, the hormone that helps control blood glucose (sugar) levels. Low blood levels of magnesium (hypomagnesemia) are frequently seen in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Hypomagnesemia may worsen insulin resistance, a condition that often precedes diabetes, or may be a consequence of insulin resistance. Individuals with insulin resistance do not use insulin efficiently and require greater amounts of insulin to maintain blood sugar within normal levels. The kidneys possibly lose their ability to retain magnesium during periods of severe hyperglycemia (significantly elevated blood glucose). The increased loss of magnesium in urine may then result in lower blood levels of magnesium . In older adults, correcting magnesium depletion may improve insulin response and action .

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Industry Status of Sugarcane/Ethanol and
its usage as an automobile fuel:

Some Facts to ponder on:

Brazil is the largest and lowest cost producer and also largest exporter of ethanol in the world where as India is the largest producer of sugar in the world. Both use sugarcane as the feedstock.

In terms of sugarcane production, India and Brazil are almost equally placed.But in India, about 60% of cane is utilized for the production of sugar, about 30% for alternate sweeteners, namely gur and khandsari , and the balance 10% for seeds. Where as in Brazil, out of the total cane available for crushing, 45% goes for sugar production and 55% for the production of ethanol directly from sugarcane juice.

Brazil is considered to have the world's first sustainable biofuels economy and the biofuel industry leader.

Nearly 90% of ethanol is used for fuel. In 2006 Brazil produced 16.3 billion liters which represents 33.3% of the world's total ethanol production and 42% of the world's ethanol used as fuel. Total production is predicted to reach at least 26.4 billion litres for 2008.Brazil’s 30-year-old ethanol fuel program uses cheap sugar cane, mainly bagasse (cane-waste) for process heat and power, and modern equipment, and provides a ~22% ethanol blend used nationwide, plus 100% anhydrous ethanol for five million cars. The Brazilian ethanol program cut 1975–2002 oil imports by a cumulative undiscounted total of US$50 billion.

The car manufacturing industry in Brazil developed full flexible-fuel vehicles (FFFV) that can run on any proportion of gasoline and ethanol. Introduced in the market in 2003, these vehicles became a commercial success and by March 2008, the fleet of FFFVs had reached 5 million vehicles which represents around 10% of Brazil's motor vehicle fleet.The success of FFFVs, together with the mandatory use of E25 blend of gasoline throughout the country, allowed Brazil to get more than 40% of its automobile fuels from sugar cane-based ethanol in 2007.

Due to the lower energy content of ethanol fuel, full flex-fuel vehicles get fewer miles per gallon. Ethanol price has to be between 25-30% cheaper per gallon to reach the break even point. Since 2005, ethanol price has been very competitive without any subsidies,even with gasoline prices kept constant in local currency since mid-2005,at a time when oil was just approaching USD 60 a barrel. The price ratio between gasoline and ethanol fuel has been well above 30% during this period, except during low sugar cane supply between harvests. According to Brazilian producers, ethanol can remain competitive if the price of oil does not fall below USD 30 a barrel.

To know more click on the link below:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethanol_fuel_in_Brazil

What it means to India and Indian economy?

Today the oil is well above USD 135 a barrel. Well! well!,with india producing almost same quantity of sugarcane as Brazil, it opens up exciting opportunities & frountiers for India and Indian enterpreneurs, in particular.

Listed below is one such indian company which has created an unique & highly profitable business model which is sustainable on long term and is based on renewable agri-based feed stock,i.e., sugarcane. It converts molasses, being bought at a price of approx. Rs.2000/- to 3500/-per tonne, into MEG,( an intermediatery product for manufacture of fibre in the textile industry), and sell it at an average price of approx.Rs.54000/- to 60,000/- per tonne. The market price of MEG is dictated by the price of crude oil. The higher the crude oil price, the costiler will be the MEG.

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