Germanium

 

            Germanium is emerging as an important trace mineral.  Essential for the oxygenation of tissues and immune function, germanium is increasing in popularity as an alternative therapy for viral and bacterial infections, and cancer.  Germanium is chemically similar to the mineral silicon.  In animal studies, bone development diseases stemming from silicon deficiency have been reverses with germanium supplementation. Germanium is usually found in many medicinal herbs like aloe vera, ginseng, and garlic.

 

            An interesting group of studies on diabetic mice shows delayed development of, and prevention of cataracts.  Germanium appears to prevent sugar molecules from attaching to proteins in the eye, which can prevent cataracts.  Germanium serves as an electrical semiconductor, helping correct distortions in the electrical fields of the body.

Germanium deficiency symptoms include: Asthma                                    Leukemia Cancer                                    Neuralgia Cataracts                                Cardiac insufficiency Nephritis                                 Hypertension Neurotic disorders                  Hepatic cirrhosis Softening of brain tissue

Foods high in Germanium include: Shitake mushrooms                   Aloe Vera Ginseng                                    Comfrey Garlic                                       Spinach Kale                                         Beet greens Arugula                                    Mustard greens