Flex (CD)

• Chronic cold-type of arthritis or arthralgia that worsens with cold and damp weather;
• Chronic low back pain and sciatica with underlying deficiencies;
• Degenerative disorders with weakness of the lower back and knees with reduced mobility;
• General aches and pains characterized by cold manifestations;
• Fibromyalgia characterized by cold or numbness

• Analgesic function to relieve pain;
• Anti-inflammatory function to reduce swelling and inflammation;
• Antirheumatic and antiarthritic effects to treat connective tissue disorders;
• Chondroprotective and osteogenic functions to strengthen soft connective tissues and repair joints

• Side effects of this herbal formula may include nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort and irritability. Discontinue using this formula if these adverse reactions occur.
• Do not use this formula if the patient presents with heat signs such as redness, burning or inflammation of the joints that worsens with heat.
• This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.
• This herbal formula contains herbs that invigorate blood circulation, such as Dang Gui Wei (Extremitas Radix Angelicae Sinensis). Therefore, patients who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapies, such as Coumadin (warfarin), should use this formula with caution, or not at all, as there may be a higher risk of bleeding and bruising.
• Patients who wear a pacemaker, take antiarrhythmic drugs or cardiac glycosides, such as Lanoxin (digoxin), and have pre-existing cardiovascular problems should not take this formula. Zhi Cao Wu (Radix Aconiti Kusnezoffii Praeparata) and Zhi Chuan Wu (Radix Aconiti Praeparata) may interact with these drugs by affecting the rhythm and potentiating the contractile strength of the heart;
  

• Sulfur helps the absorption of calcium, and adequate intake and absorption of calcium is essential for the repair and the rebuilding of bones, tendons, cartilage, and connective tissues. Patients are encouraged to consume foods high in sulfur such as asparagus, eggs, fresh garlic, and onions.
• Histidine, an amino acid, is responsible for removing the high levels of copper and iron found in arthritic patients. Patients are encouraged to consume foods high in histidine such as rice, wheat, and rye.
• Fresh pineapples are recommended as they contain bromelain, an enzyme that is excellent in reducing inflammation.
• Patients with gout should increase their intake of cherries and strawberries. Both of them are excellent in neutralizing uric acid. Increase the intake of water, as it helps to flush out uric acid.
• Foods that contain purines or uric acid, such as meat, anchovies, herring, meat gravies and broths, mushrooms, mussels, sardines, sweetbreads, and fried foods, should be avoided. Alcohol also increases the production of uric acid and should also be avoided.
• Avoid cold beverages, uncooked foods, ice cream, caffeine, sugar, tomatoes, milk, dairy products, and red meat.
• Intake of sour food, drinks or fruits (citrus) should be decreased as its nature constricts and may contribute to further stagnation in the channels and collaterals.
• Fish oil may help to alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It can be taken in conjunction with the herbs.
• Weight loss is strongly recommended in individuals who are overweight. This lessens the pressure on the joints, which can then help in relieving pain.
• Exercise is recommended. However, sports such as swimming or skiing that expose affected joints to cold and dampness should be avoided.

Take 3 to 4 capsules three times daily with a glass of warm water. The dosage may be increased up to 6 capsules every six hours as needed for pain.

Radix Paeoniae Alba;
Radix Cyathulae;
Rhizoma Chuanxiong;
Extremitas Radix Angelicae Sinensis;
Radix Rehmanniae;
Radix Angelicae Pubescentis;
Cortex Eucommiae;
Radix Saposhnikoviae;
Caulis Spatholobi;
Rhizoma Homalomenae;
Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae;
Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng;
Herba Taxilli;
Radix et Rhizoma Clematidis;
Cortex Acanthopanacis;
Rhizoma Corydalis;
Radix Aconiti Kusnezoffii Praeparata;
Radix Aconiti Praeparata;