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NATURAL CONNECTORS In this section you will discover the benefits of these natural connectors which are available in health food stores: • Tryptophan or 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan • S-Adenosyl Methionine (SAMe) and Tri-Methyl Glycine (TMG) • B3, B6, B12 and Folic Acid • Kava • Sceletium Here's what happened to Jeremy, a psychologist, who decided to try these natural connectors "My life had become a rollercoaster of highs and lows, with many more lows than highs. I decided to clean up my act for a month, and started taking 5-HTP, SAMe and B vitamins, plus kava in the evenings. Within a week I stopped feeling like a 'victim' and started to feel in charge and in tune and my mood and outlook on life noticeably improved." The chemistry of connection is all about having a healthy balance of neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine and serotonin and DMT. The best way to achieve this is to supplement a cocktail of supporting nutrients. The figure below shows how these nutrients promote a healthy balance of DMT and serotonin.
As you can see, the building block of both serotonin and DMT is the amino acid tryptophan, which is an essential constituent of protein, is. In addition, the brain’s chemistry is carefully and intelligently kept in order by catalysts that have the ability to change tryptophan into a number of natural connectors. These catalysts are SAMe, and the B vitamins which add or remove what are known as ‘methyl’ groups. (DMT, the brain's natural connector, is a type of tryptamine with two methyl groups added, hence the Di-Methyl'). It has long been known that a deficiency in these can induce schizophrenia in which a person is profoundly 'dis-connected'. These combination of nutrients therefore help to ‘fine-tune’ brain chemistry to allow for a more a natural and consistent state of connection.
Tryptophan and 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan – The Key to Connection The amino acid tryptophan, a normal constituent of food, is the basic building block not only of serotonin, but also of tryptamines, such as DMT. As such, tryptophan is critical to the chemistry of connection. As already discussed (see Chapter 7) tryptophan deficiency leads to depression, while supplementing tryptophan has proven an effective anti-depressant. As far as promoting a natural state of connection is concerned the objective is to make sure that the brain and nervous system has an adequate supply of this vital amino acid. This not only depends on your daily intake of tryptophan, but also your intake of B vitamins. Unfortunately tryptophan is only available in the UK on prescription as an anti-depressant called Optimax by Merck. It was banned for over-the-counter sale following a contaminated batch produced by a Japanese manufacturer who had developed a method of production involving genetically modifying an organism to produce tryptophan. This resulted in a contamination that caused a disease outbreak called eosinophilia myalgia syndrome. This proved fatal for a number of people and was the first major blunder of genetic engineering. While tryptophan itself is both safe and effective it is no longer available over the counter in the UK. Since it competes for absorption with other amino acids and its absorption is assisted by ingesting carbohydrate which helps carry tryptophan from the blood into the brain. Hence, it is best to supplement tryptophan with a fruit snack, away from other protein foods.
5-HTP - The Best Natural Anti-depressant More effective and available than tryptophan is 5-HTP ( 5–hydroxytryptophan), which is a more biologically active form of tryptophan. While 5-HTP is not a direct precursor for DMT, it is the most effective precursor for serotonin. By providing the brain with the raw material to make serotonin this spares tryptophan for producing other important tryptamines, such as DMT. 5-HTP is ten times more powerful than tryptophan hence the dose needed for a psychoactive effect is a tenth. Like tryptophan it has proven to be a very effective anti-depressant, at least as effective as the best anti-depressant drugs without the same high risk of side-effects (see chapter 7). 5-HTP occurs naturally in an African plant called the Griffonia simplifica and is available as a nutritional supplement. The dosage of 5-HTP that has been used in the treatment of depression is 200mg to 300mg a day. 5-HTP doesn’t compete for absorption with other amino acids and is therefore well absorbed both with food and without. The amount needed to promote a sense of connection is 100mg a day, or less if taken in combination with other ‘connecting’ nutrients. A word of caution: More is not better. Serotonin overload can cause symptoms of tremor, nausea, vomiting, elevated temperature, abnormal heart beat and, in extreme cases, coma, leading to death. It occurs within 2 hours and symptoms may subside within 6 to 24 hours. This does not occur with either tryptophan or 5-HTP in the dose ranges we recommend. However, we do not recommend simultaneously supplementing these nutrients with anti-depressant drugs which effectively keep more serotonin in circulation by stopping its breakdown unless under medical guidance, nor do we recommend combining these nutrients with entheogens which temporarily raise serotonin levels.
S-Adenosyl Methionine (SAM) – The Master Tuner SAMe is the master tuner as far as the chemistry of connection is concerned. It donates ‘methyl’ groups and helps to make naturally occurring tryptamines that are part of the brain’s well-tuned chemistry. The methylation of tryptamine, for example, results in DMT. The body can and does make SAMe from the constituent of protein, methionine. Having enough vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid helps the body maximise its production of SAMe. SAMe also helps neurotransmitters deliver their messages to the receptor sites by sharpening up their activity. By methylating phospholipids, from which nerve cell membranes are made, SAMe improves cellular communication between nerve cells. SAMe can also help you get a good night's sleep and promotes dreaming. This is because the brain’s manufacture of melatonin, a key neurotransmitter for sleep and dreaming, depends on SAMe. Melatonin is made from serotonin, however the conversion depends upon SAMe. SAMe has been well proven as an anti-depressant, however its use tends to also enhance a feeling of well-being and connection in those who are not depressed. While a positive response is often felt within a week, and often within days, it may take as long as 4 weeks. In general, the longer SAMe is used, the more beneficial the results. SAMe should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 1 hour away from food, starting at a dosage of 200mg twice daily. If results aren’t seen in a few days, the dose can be increased gradually, up to the maximum dose of 400mg four times daily, if needed. Most often, 400mg per day is sufficient. SAMe should also be taken with its cofactors, Vitamin B6 (100 mg), Vitamin B12 (100 mcg) and Folic acid (1000 mcg). It is safe to use during pregnancy and nursing. Unfortunately, SAMe is currently both expensive and relatively unstable as a supplement. SAMe also becomes unstable at higher temperatures and should be kept refrigerated whenever possible. Pharmaceutical-grade SAMe comes in two forms, tosylate and a newer, more stable form called butanedisulfonate. The former quickly degrades upon exposure to heat and/or moisture and if improperly handled during manufacture, can be worthless. Both forms are relatively stable in enteric coated tablets. In comparing products, potency, and price, look for the amount of active ingredient on the label. For example, 200 mg of s-adenosyl-methionine butanedisulfonate provides only 50% or 100 mg of SAMe. Purchase from a reputable company, not a one newly on the SAMe bandwagon. Enteric coated tablets are much better becaue they ensure stability and reduce the chances of a sometimes reported side effect of nausea and gastrointestinal disturbances. Reducing the dose size and taking it with meals usually overcomes this potential problem, although the food will reduce its potency somewhat. A word of caution: Although not reported in the literature, higher doses may lead to irritability and anxiety. If this continues even on the lowest dose, the product should be discontinued. There are no reported negative interactions with other medications or nutritional supplements.
Trimethylglycine (TMG) - The Alternative to SAMe Until stable SAMe supplements become widely available your best bet is to supplement trimethylglycine (TMG). The body can make SAMe directly from TMG, which is both stable and much less expensive. While it has not been so extensively researched as SAMe the fact that it is a direct precursor of SAMe would predict that its effect would be very similar although you need more. Also, TMG helps the body to make more SAMe from dietary protein. TMG is extracted from sugar beets and is also found in broccoli and spinach. It has no reported of side effects other than brief muscle tension headaches if it is taken in very large quantities without food. Optimal doses needed to raise SAMe levels in the body are 1,000 - 3000 mg per day. In combined formulas, a 500mg dose is sufficient.
B3, B6, B12 and Folic Acid – Your Brain’s Best Friends If SAM is the source of the methyl groups that transform one brain chemical into another, B vitamins are the delivery boys who can accept or donate methyl (carbon based molecules) groups. They are the real workers in the enzymes that turn one brain chemical into another and keep you feeling connected. For some enzymes you need vitamin B3, for other B6, B12 or folic acid. Not surprisingly, deficiency of any one of these leads to dis-connection and is associated with depression, mental illness, schizophrenia and unpleasant hallucinations. Supplementing these has the reverse effect and has been shown to dramatically improve a person’s mental and emotional well-being. As long ago as 1957 Drs Humphrey Osmond and Abram Hoffer from Saskatchewan in Canada, proved that supplementing niacin normalised behaviour in those diagnosed with schizophrenia in the first ever double-blind study in the history of psychiatry. Dr Abram Hoffer, now in his 80’s has treated over 5,000 patients with schizophrenia and claims an 80 per cent success rate using B3 and other ‘connector-nutrients’. His definition of cure – free of symptoms, able to socialise and paying income tax! Hoffer and Osmond were among the first scientists to investigate the chemistry of entheogens and, from this, developed their theories on how to treat the mentally ill suffering from unpleasant hallucinations. Their theories have proven correct and, to this day Hoffer believes an optimal intake of these nutrients is essential to be naturally high. (Osmond introduced Aldous Huxley to mescaline, the entheogen found in the peyote cactus. To describe his experience he wrote The Doors of Perception, from which Jim Morrison named his band, the Doors – an interesting connection.) Meanwhile, Dr Carl Pfeiffer at the Brain Bio Center in Princeton had also been investigating the chemistry of the brain in relation to mental health and illness. He discovered that deficiency in vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and zinc (pyridoxine is ‘activated’ in the body by a zinc-dependent enzyme) also created dis-connection, diagnosed as mental illness. Supplementing vitamin B6 and zinc corrected this abnormal chemistry and improved their mental health and experience of connection. B6 is now known to help SAMe donate its methyl groups in the chemistry of connection. Folic acid is also a methyl donor. Research at Kings College Hospital and the Institute of Psychiatry in London found that one third of all patients with either severe depression of schizophrenia were deficient in folic acid Supplementing folic acid for six months made a big difference in their symptoms and ability to relate. Folic acid, together with vitamin B12, is needed to turn the amino acids tryptophan into serotonin and tyrosine into dopamine. Without these vitamins the higher brain centres simply can’t work properly. Of course, the effect of these nutrients in isolation is not nearly as powerful as the nutrients in combination and consequently, to enhance connection it is best to supplement the following levels every day: Niacin (B3) 100mg Niacin comes in two forms – niacin and niacinamide. Niacin, at dosages above 50mg, makes you blush. This vasodilatory effect is beneficial in many ways, however is not to everybody’s choosing. To avoid the flushing effect supplement no more than 50mg of niacin, and the rest in the form of niacinamide.
While we have extolled the virtues of kava as a stress buster and natural relaxant in Chapter 5, from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea, kava has been at the core of Pacific island life for centuries, not as a treatment for anxiety, but for inducing and sharing an experience of heightened awareness and empathy, of enhanced 'being' and freedom from 'doing'. This feel- good root of the South Sea islands traditionally has two main uses: First, a personal experience of peace, relaxation, ease, well being, and even, euphoria; second, a social context, often with a sense of ritual or ceremony. In fact, in Fiji, the phrase "drinking kava alone" is a euphemistic way of accusing a person of practising black magic! Kava certainly qualifies as a natural connector. When you take kava, at least in the manner and doses used regularly in the South Pacific, your consciousness is unmistakably altered. It's difficult to improve on the description of anthropologist, E.M. Lemert, who observed: "The head is affected pleasantly; you feel friendly, not beer sentimental; you cannot hate with kava in you. Kava quiets the mind; the world gains no new colour or rose tint; it fits in its place and in one easily understandable whole." Referring to its subtlety, islanders say: 'Kava doesn't come to you. You go to kava.'" Terence’s description of his experience on kava well explains its role as a natural connector: "Over the next several minutes, at least four things seem to happen fairly simultaneously. A wave of relaxation rolls through my body. The effects of kava are immediate, but they are not abrupt. The second thing is an emotional release, perhaps even more subtle than the physical. I don't notice the change as it happens, but I find I'm feeling at ease, comfortable in my skin, but again very awake. Vision and hearing are slightly heightened. I've read of the islanders' wanting silence and darkness because of increased sensitivity, but I've never found it uncomfortable. Both sights and sounds are just a little brighter, clearer and warmer. Finally I'm aware of a feeling of easy connectedness and relationship with others in the room." The potency of kava preparations varies, and the herb effects different people differently. For some, kava’s effects are too subtle; for others, too strong. Some people feel no effects the first couple of times they try kava. Others report feeling weird or dopey at first, but experience a more pleasant and clearer state with subsequent use. Kava is most potent when consumed on an empty stomach. Islanders speak of "listening to kava." It opens a window to subtle awareness and a connection to nature, as well as to others and to oneself. Kava’s first effects are felt within half an hour, and its mild high lasts two or three hours. Kava has properties that clearly qualify it as an entheogen – increasing feelings of sociability, friendliness and empathy with others. One of the kavalactones, methysticin, actually bears some chemical similarity to MDMA. But kava would hardly be described as an hallucinogen. At most, some report that high doses of potent kava can cause mild visual and auditory distortions, such as objects taking on a subtle glow or a softness of focus. You have to take relatively large amounts of the whole herb to feel its mind-altering effects. One serving of the traditional beverage, usually four to six ounces, contains about 1000mg of kavalactone-rich resin giving 250 to 500 mg of kavalactones. Islanders might consume five or more such servings in a single night. Tablets or capsules would be an unwieldy means for achieving such dosages. While it could be done with tinctures, the most sensible method would be ground kava powder, available in bulk at some herbal outlets or ethnic markets. Kava definitely affects consciousness and thinking. In studies memory actually seems to be enhanced. Perception is a bit heightened, and so is sensitivity to stimuli such as noises or bright lights. Unlike alcohol, with kava you’re likely to experience no loss of mental sharpness. (In some studies kava actually enhanced it.) But don’t be fooled. Kava can deeply relax muscles, almost to the point of numbness. You can still function, but coordination is not as good. Definitely do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or care for an infant under the too relaxing influence of kava. Other than this there appears to be no downside to using kava as a connector.
Skeletium tortuosum, a creeper that grows only in South Africa, has been used by the San hunter-gatherer tribes since prehistoric times. It improves mood and decreases anxiety, stress and tension and enhances a sense of connection. It is not hallucinogenic and no severe adverse effects have been reported, despite documented use since the 1600's. In very large doses it can induce a somewhat euphoric feeling, followed by mild sedation. The active constituents of the plant are alkaloids, including mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol and tortuosamine. Mesembrine, which was isolated as long ago as 1913, is usually the major alkaloid present, and laboratory studies sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health in the United States have found it to be a serotonin-uptake inhibitor, thereby keeping more serotonin in circulation, somewhat like Prozac. It also affects dopamine and noradrenalin and adrenalin, appearing to have a harmonising and balancing effect. While no clinical trials have yet to be published, a number of doctors and psychiatrists have reported a wide range of positive effects in patients supplementing Sceletium, notably those with anxiety, depression, alcohol, cocaine and nicotine addiction. Sceletium has also been reported to help couples in therapy by promoting a sense of empathy and connection. Other people have reported that the relaxation induced by Sceletium enabled them to focus on inner thoughts and feelings, or to have a heightened experience of the beauty of nature. Some have reported heightened sensation of skin to fine touch, as well as sexual arousal. Other effects that have been reported are feeling free from fear and stress. Lewin, in his 1934 book, Phantastica, reports mesembrine to have a meditative effect. Dr Nigel Gericke, who is spearheading research into Sceletium in South Africa, working with the Botany Department at the University of Natal, believes that "Sceletium is one of the most ancient of mind-altering substances, and it is likely to have had a profound influence on the evolution of human consciousness. People interested in consciousness will find that Sceletium is a key, but it needs to be used wisely. It is not a quick-fix, and after ten years of use I'm still learning about it." Traditionally, Sceletium is chewed, brewed as a tea, or used as snuff. If chewed in sufficient quantity it has a mild aneasthetic effect in the mouth, much like kava, and is used by the San tribes if you are about to have a tooth extracted, or in minute doses, for children with colic. A tea made from Sceletium is used to wean alcoholics off alcohol. Chronic use in this way does not appear to result in any kind of withdrawal state. 50mg a day is an effective dose, although some doctors report needing to use 100mg a day for those with chronic depression or anxiety.
The ideal doses of all these ‘connector nutrients’ are less when combined than when a substance is taken in isolation. The following nutrients are worthy additions to a supplement programme designed to enhance connection. The combination of these nutrients, taken every day is likely to improve meditation, dreaming, insights and understanding, as well as improving your mood and ability to relate. Natural Connector Combined Isolated
What this means, in practice is supplementing: •A good all-round multivitamin supplying optimal amounts of B vitamins and the minerals zinc, manganese and magnesium. •A ‘connector nutrient’ formula providing 5-HTP, SAMe or TMG, Kava and additional B vitamins to achieve the levels shown above. SAMe is unstable, needs to be refrigerated and supplemented away from food. For these reasons it is often supplemented separately. Non-Chemical Natural Connectors While there is a chemistry of connection, there’s much more to it than chemistry. The goal of meditation, for example, is to go beyond the mind to experience a natural state of connection, an expanded awareness. Many people report experiences at least, if not more profound than those experienced on entheogens during meditation. Light, breath, exercise and being in nature all have profound effects on how we feel. Imagine you were to spend today vigorously walking through a magnificent landscape, breathing in crisp, clean air, under a bright blue sky. How would you feel by the end of the day? Something as simple as a lack of sleep can leave you dis-connected. The advice to ‘sleep on it’ is often well given. In the morning, you have a completely different outlook. Sex too can be a powerful connector, a way to ‘connect’ with another both physically and spiritually. A really good massage can also bring you out of the state of stress and separation, and back into a state of calm, where you see the bigger picture. Music, singing and dancing have a profound effect on mood and state of mind. All of these are natural connectors. They are legal, natural, safe and non-toxic. Put the whole together and you've got a recipe for feeling connected - naturally. The CONNECT product from Naturally High contains all the above nutrients and is available for worldwide delivery.
RELAX | ENERGISED | MOOD | MIND & MEMORY | CONNECTED |
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