Seriously, no animals are harmed in the harvesting of deer velvet, much like dairy farmers, deer farmers have a vested interest in keeping their stock alive and healthy.The removal of the antlers (velvet) is done by trained specialists who are conscious of the animal’s welfare and are careful to ensure maximum antler re-growth in the following season.Deer Velvet is unique – it is the only organised mammalian tissue that completely re-grows, every year! Starting in late spring, the antler is fully mature after 120 days but it is usually removed mid-way through, before it has completely calcified and become a weapon used for ‘rutting’. Autumn is the season when the stags become aggressive and compete with each other for hinds. At around 60 days the rate of growth is extraordinarily rapid (up to 2cm per day) and requires specialised and potent biochemicals (which the deer produce naturally) to allow such growth. Deer Velvet is a completely renewable resource.Free to range in the natural pastures of Southland, New Zealand, Red deer and Wapiti (or elk) thrive on the unpolluted grasses in this pristine environment. New Zealand’s positively regulated deer industry is trusted for its commitment to farming excellence. The emphasis on animal welfare and management, ensures traceability and sustainability. In addition, the deer products are harvested under strict conditions to protect and promote animal well-being. The fresh deer velvet is processed using sophisticated freeze-drying techniques to capture this health-promoting remedy in its premium state. The quality and potency of this high grade deer antler powder is assured because no heat treatment is used at any stage. This is how we can offer the best that Nature can provide; pure, natural ingredients.Used for over 2000 years by Eastern cultures, deer velvet is an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, which is why it is most commonly referred to as a general health tonic. Improved sexual function is one of the many purported benefits and only serves to add to the rich history of this remedy. More importantly, perhaps, recent scientific research lends validity to the traditional wisdom. Numerous studies have demonstrated that deer velvet has anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit immune function, joint mobility, wound healing and nerve function. Such properties make it a powerful source of nutrients which are useful in the treatment of osteoporosis and other age-related diseases. Elderly, mature, young and active people will all equally benefit from the increase in energy and athletic performance this natural substance can offer.Deer Velvet contains proteins, vitamins and minerals, and substances like chondroitin sulphate and anti-inflammatory fatty acids which can improve joint mobility, muscle strength, endurance and recovery.Remember; no animals were harmed in the making of this product!Click here to view our Deer Products.

How to prevent having to ask yourself this question this winter!Whether you have had your flu jab or not, it pays to keep your immune system working and in top shape, for many reasons;The flu jab will not cover you for all of the seasonal viruses and diseases you could be exposed toThere are no vaccinations for upper respiratory infections or complications from coldsFungi and parasites are always present in our environmentSigns of a weak Immune SystemRapid fatigue and lack of zest, headachesSusceptibility to infectionsFrequent suffering from cold or flu, a sore throatProlonged duration of illnessPoor healing of wounds.Loss of appetiteAching muscles and joints.Exposure to viruses and infectious bugs is a daily occurrence, but paranoia and excessive use of anti-bacterial products is not the answer and nor is relying on medicines to treat secondary infections from flus and colds. The fact is, these days antibiotics have become less effective because many bugs are now resistant to even the newest antibiotics and modern drugs. This is not likely to change in a hurry!A better plan is to strengthen your resistance to diseases naturally, through changes to your lifestyle, diet and with premium health supplements. Hygiene, regular exercise and food choices play an important role in fortifying our defences. Chicken soup, hot lemon-and-honey drinks and plenty of rest can help recovery from the average cold. But natural health supplements can strengthen the immune system and help our bodies to deal with flu symptoms, colds and bacterial infections quickly.Olive Leaf extract has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes in many cultures. You have probably heard about the Mediterranean paradox; these cultures eat a diet seemingly high in fat but have a low incidence of chronic disease.  This “phtyomedicinal” product is emerging as a powerful weapon in the fight against microscopic pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites.Phenolic compounds have been identified as the active substance in Olive Leaf, the most potent of these is Oleuropein, also called elenolic acid. Interestingly, in spite of the well-known beneficial effects of olive oil, less than one percent of the phenolic compounds in the olive end up in the finished product. Fortunately, studies have shown that Oleuropein is present in high concentrations in the fruit, bark and leaves. Research has shown that Olive Leaf extract is particularly effective against viruses and other infectious bugs when taken as a daily tonic.Used by the ancient Egyptians as part of the mummification rituals to preserve the bodies of kings and nobility for the afterlife, Olive Leaf has a proven track record.Whether you see yourself as an Egyptian Pharaoh or a Greek Deity, olive leaf could keep you looking and feeling great this winter. Click here to view our immune products.

GlycOmega Plus – Green lipped mussel extract with Clinical credentials!Sounds too good to be true? Well, read on…..Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) supplements have been marketed for the treatment of arthritic symptoms since the early 1970’s. Praised for its anti-inflammatory effect, studies have shown that GLM extract varies in potency depending on the stability of the preparation. What does that mean? Well, it means that the best supplements are made from fresh mussels that have not been allowed to sit around too long before being processed. Just like any raw food – the fresher the better. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis. It is associated with increasing age, diet, trauma or overuse of joints and other inherited factors. GlycOmegaTM-PLUS is a clinically proven oral supplement for the relief of joint pain management in arthritis sufferers (see below). It is made using selected cold-opened, fresh Green Lipped Mussels (GLM), combined with Rosemary oil, a botanical antioxidant. This high quality health supplement is the outcome of a new generation marine extraction process. For generations native coastal Maori tribes have harvested and consumed raw New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels as a primary part of their diet. Also known as Perna canaliculus, this shellfish provides an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals and extremely valuable Omega-3 fatty acids. Now science can explain the natural health benefits they were gaining. The Green Lipped Mussel contains high levels of glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate and a profile of Omega-3 essential fatty acids which are unique to its species. Glucosamine is a form of amino sugar that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. While chondroitin sulphate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage its elasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids are well known as anti-inflammatory oils that literally grease the joints from the inside. With several years of scientific research Aroma NZ Ltd have formulated GIycOmegaTM-PLUS a proprietary blend of cold opened Green Lipped Mussel meat (Perna canaliculus) and a botanical anti-oxidant which together provide significant levels of anti-inflammatory activity. GlycOmegaTM-PLUS guarantees a stabilised health supplement with bioactive compounds. Naturally, with concerns rising about the proven risk of heart disease from some prescription medications, many people are looking for a safer alternative to deal with joint pain. Recently, a trial was undertaken by the Medical School at University of Queensland to establish the benefits of the GlycOmegaTM-PLUS product. Aroma NZ director Ben Winters said they always knew green shell mussel powder gave great results to people and animals who suffered from joint pain and inflammation."People had been asking us to carry out clinical studies on our product so we went ahead with a significant clinical trial," he said."The excellent trial results just released to us show a 43 percent improvement over eight weeks on arthritis sufferers who took part in the trial. The study proved overwhelming reduction in joint pain and increased joint mobility in patients. "This was the result we were looking for and confirms that our green shell mussel product definitely contains significant anti-inflammatory properties." Joint pain is so widespread throughout society and not just the elderly whom suffer from arthritis but also young people, sports people from injuries and many others.Benefits of Christchurch mussel health product study"Tuesday, 7 June 2011, 10:05 amPress Release: Word of Mouth Media The clinical trial investigated the therapeutic effectiveness of this supplement to improve joint pain and mobility in people with Osteoarthritis of the knee. Twenty-one participants with chronic pain and poor mobility of the knee took part in the trial. They consumed 3000mg per day of GlycOmegaTM-PLUS for eight weeks. The researchers concluded that GlycOmegaTM-PLUS is an effective treatment for arthritis in almost two thirds (59%) of the patients who participated in the trial. Clinically researched and scientifically formulated, GlycOmegaTM-PLUS products are the natural choice for joint health and recovery. Click here to view product.

CoQ10  – sounds more like a Star Wars android than a natural supplement! C3PO and R2D2 are both well-known characters in the Star Wars series, but they have nothing to do with heart function, cholesterol, periodontal disease or health supplements. So…….What is Coenzyme Q10?Coenzyme Q10 is a substance that is normally made by your body. It’s used in every cell of your body to produce energy and to help keep you in good health. The problem is that as we age, we produce less of it and there are many conditions and activities that deplete Coenzyme Q10 in the cells and muscle tissue. Given that the heart is one big muscle, it is no wonder that this supplement can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health.It is true that in a perfect world you can get all the nutrients you need to stay healthy, from food. But, unless you are an android or an incredibly healthy twenty-year-old who only ever eats fresh, raw food and is never exposed to environmental toxins or even stress, you might benefit from dietary supplements. In fact if you are: over the age of 40; have experienced a high degree of stress over a long period of time; or suffer from any form of post-traumatic stress its likely your nutrient reserves have been seriously depleted, including CoQ10.In addition, there are many conditions that most people just shrug off as a normal part of aging; these include physical exhaustion, mental fatigue, poor concentration, memory lapses, mood changes, migraines and chronic pain. Chronic gum infections, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease could also indicate a need for supplementation with CoQ10. If you regularly suffer from any of these you should probably get some good medical advice.CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone and ubidecarenone, is an energy coenzyme that is fat soluble.  That just means that it is more easily absorbed in a mixture of oils such as Omega oils or vitamin E (which is a fat soluble vitamin). That is why you should take it with a main meal that contains good fats.The main food sources of CoQ10, in descending order of concentration, are: fresh oily cold water fish such as sardines, tuna, salmon and mackerel; animal organ meats such as heart, liver and muscle; eggs; spinach, broccoli, parsley, peanuts, wheat-germ, rice-bran, and wholegrains; unrefined vegetable oils such as soybean, olive and grapeseed oils.Most importantly, any food source of CoQ10 must be eaten raw, fresh and unprocessed. Processing methods such as milling, canning, preserving or freezing, especially heating, change the structure and function of CoQ10 and minimise its viability. Cooking methods may also reduce the amount of CoQ10 in foods.  For example, as much as one third of the CoQ10 may be lost when frying eggs and vegetables, while boiling does not appear to alter CoQ10 levels.Again it is produced naturally in the body, but may also be consumed through diet or taken as a supplement.  CoQ10 has two main roles; it is necessary for the production of energy, and also acts as an antioxidant. Taking an oral CoQ10 supplement has been shown to increase CoQ10 levels in blood and blood vessels, and support antioxidant function, energy production and a healthy cardiovascular system. In combination Coenzyme Q10 and Omega oils can improve heart muscle function and have an anti-inflammatory effect, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol (trglycerides) in the blood.And let’s face it, even androids need a good oil occasionally!To view our CoQ10 products

To many of us in the west, Traditional Chinese Medicine is an unknown and mysterious practice. Despite this people who benefit from it are heard to say ‘I don’t understand how it works but it does!’From 2,000 year old silk scrolls recovered from a tomb in the Hunan Province in China, to the well-respected Grand Materia Medica written in 1596 by Li Shi-Zhen, and the modern Chinese Pharmacopeia, deer velvet is credited with considerable health-giving properties.Essentially, the goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is to promote balance and ‘wellness’. Yinyang is all about balance, in Chinese culture Yin and yang are opposite in nature, but they co-exist in everything, they rely on each other. By definition, a tonic is a medicinal substance taken to give a feeling of vigour and well-being. These are concepts that are relatively new to many western cultures. Deer velvet is considered a potent tonic and its traditional uses are many and varied.Deer velvet is one of the most potent medicinals in the Chinese pharmacopeia to strengthen yang and tonify the kidneys. Yang energy is very important in health, as it warms and protects the body and provides the basis for metabolic functions. Yang energy also carries our essential energy whose source is the kidneys (a concept different from the western anatomical kidney which includes adrenals and reproductive organs) If yang energy is weak, there is a tendency to feel cold and lethargic, the pores of the skin remain open, the tendons are stiff and the back becomes hunched. Often fertility is reduced. The properties of deer velvet are sweet, salty and warm which means it 'enters' the kidneys and this makes it ideal to use for strengthening yang and kidneys.Deer Antler Velvet has been consumed for at least 2,000 years. The first documented use of Deer Velvet has been traced back to the Han tomb in the Hunan Province in China where a silk scroll was discovered listing over 50 conditions for which Deer Velvet is given. Consistent with the holistic approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Deer Velvet is taken as a general tonic to restore balance, strengthen the body and promote overall wellness. One of the few "pure" tonics among the thousands of natural remedies in the Chinese pharmacopoeia, Deer Velvet is in the same highly regarded category as ginseng.Generally, conventional western medicine does not recognise herbal remedies or health tonics and is not concerned with the promotion of wellness, mainly because the biological mechanisms of these substances are poorly understood. However, research into these and other alternative therapies tends to support at least some of the claims that have been made for centuries.Increasingly, people in the west are turning to so-called alternative therapies to avoid long term dependency on prescription drugs. Traditional Chinese Medicine, which encompasses many different practices, is rooted in the ancient philosophy of Taoism and dates back more than 5,000 years. Today, TCM is practiced side by side with Western medicine in many of China’s hospitals and clinics and conversely many of its concepts are being adopted by conventional western medicine.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis. It is associated with increasing age, diet, trauma or overuse of joints and other inherited factors. The grading system for osteoarthritis starts at zero and goes to grade 4 which is considered severe. So, clearly grade 3 is not comfortable. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a chronic condition that typically develops slowly and gradually worsens over time. In its most extreme form it is debilitating and very painful.Native to New Zealand, Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) supplements have been marketed for the treatment of arthritic symptoms since the early 1970’s. Praised for its anti-inflammatory effect, studies have shown that GLM extract varies in potency depending on the stability of the preparation. Also known as Perna canaliculus, this shellfish provides an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals and extremely valuable Omega-3 fatty acids. Green Lipped Mussels contain high levels of glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate and a profile of Omega-3 essential fatty acids which are unique to the species. Glucosamine is a glycoprotein that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. While chondroitin sulphate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage its elasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids are well known as anti-inflammatory oils that literally grease joints from the inside.Deep Blue Health GlycOmega™-Plus is the next generation marine product. It is a high quality supplement formulated using selected cold-opened, fresh Green Lipped Mussels (GLM), combined with Rosemary oil, a botanical antioxidant, which together provide significant levels of anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, converted to a powder using a low temperature freeze-drying process that ensures all the bio-activity of the mussel meat is optimised, giving maximum anti-inflammatory properties.But the most exciting part is that it works for Osteoarthritis of the knee: A clinical trial undertaken by the Medical School at the University of Queensland to establish the therapeutic benefits of GlycOmega™-Plus, concluded that this product is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee in almost two thirds (59%) of the patients who participated in the trial.And, in feedback from our customers:“I have had grade 3 osteoarthritis in my right knee for many years which has led to continuous chronic pain.  I was using glucosamine, fish oil, and krill oil supplements for many years and although it helped it did not reduce the pain beyond detection.  I heard about the University of Queensland study and found out about the GlycOmega trial and decided to try this myself.  I have been using the recommended dose (3 tablets daily) since April 2013 and after about one month of treatment I noticed a substantial reduction in pain to the point where I no longer notice it and I am sleeping much better.  Since taking the GlycOmega supplement I no longer take any of the other joint pain related supplements and I could not recommend GlycOmega more highly – Thank you Deep Blue Health for bringing such an effective product to market”.Peter J Wilson PhD, MBAExecutive OfficerQueensland Centre for Medical GenomicsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandDeep Blue Health GlycOmega™-Plus is the outcome of a new generation extraction process which preserves the rich source of essential fatty acids in GLM’s, providing a potent soothing action making GlycOmega™-Plus, a truly functional anti-arthritic product.

We are often asked if our Sheep Placenta extract has Halal Status, the short answer is yes, it does!This is a world first! Not only is New Zealand one of the few places in the world that is TSE free; our sheep are pasture raised and extremely healthy, but we can now offer Halal Certified Sheep Placenta products. In fact, both the soft gelatin capsule and the ingredients have Halal status.We live in a global village. Our products are used throughout the world by a wide variety of people from many races and cultures. As such we are aware of the need to cater to all our customers. Providing Halal Certified products is one way that we can provide peace of mind to our Islamic customers wherever they may be.Deep Blue Health Natural Sheep Placenta is truly one of Nature’s unique gifts: for centuries Sheep Placenta has been revered as a potent source of beauty and anti-aging nutrients. Used to restore general health and vitality, this rich supplement can nourish cells and reduce the signs of aging.Strictly speaking our sheep placenta extract does not need Halal certification because it is a product of live births and no animal is slaughtered when the placenta is harvested. In this case it is the processing plant itself and the processes used that have to meet the high standards required by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ). Halal certification means that every precaution has been taken to prevent contamination with non-halal foods.New Zealand’s lush, open pastures produce some of the world’s healthiest livestock. The placentas are harvested and immediately processed to preserve the nutritional content. Our processing plant is continually developing the extraction process and refining its methods. Now, the extraction method has now been refined to the point where the process meets the strict criteria required for Halal Accreditation. The tissue is treated in a manner permitted by FIANZ and no contamination is possible because all non-halal products are kept physically apart at all times. Separate processing rooms, equipment and storage areas are used.At all times during handling, processing and storage the fresh tissue and the extract are treated according to Islamic law and are therefore suitable for consumption by Muslims in any part of the world.Respect for our customers is an unwritten rule at Deep Blue Health; we strive to make goods that are free from pollutants and contamination of any type.Now we have the best of both worlds; New Zealand origin and Halal Certification!

Beautiful skin is the basis of a flawless complexion. Skin must be strong and resilient to withstand the daily wear-and-tear it endures but it is also soft and delicate. It can be both, given the correct nutrition and care. Collagen is an important protein that provides structure for every cell and organ in our body. Cartilage and tendons in the joints depend on collagen to be strong and flexible and even bones contain collagen. Natural collagen supplements are a good source of nutrition for radiant skin, in fact collagen makes-up the basic building blocks of our skin, hair and nails.Collagen is necessary for the: appearance and integrity of smooth skin, heart health and cardiovascular function, the maintenance of tendons and cartilage in joints, physical performance, vitality and well-being. Essentially, everything you do depends on the connective properties of collagen to literally hold your body together.Skin of all ages needs to be cleansed and nurtured to look its best, but once we get over the age of 25, our collagen production slows and the regeneration of our skin cells diminishes. From this age the main concerns are the stimulation of new collagen production and inhibition of the breakdown of existing collagen fibres. Research has shown that the presence of extra collagen peptides in the skin can reduce the rate at which the collagen fibres are broken down by the activity of an enzyme called collagenase. This enzyme is a normal component of skin and helps to stop the epidermis (the outer-most layer) from becoming too thick and tough. DBH Marine Collagen can nourish skin and improve its complexion by controlling the rate of skin renewal.DBH Marine Collagen contains high quality collagen protein with added Vitamin C to assist with the production of collagen within the body. When collagen fibres are laid down in the skin the process requires vitamins and minerals to ensure that it is smooth and consistent. When these nutrients are not present the type of collagen produced is inconsistent and weak, and so more prone to tearing and scarring. In addition to being an antioxidant, Vitamin C is required to produce consistently strong and smooth collagen fibres.Sourced from the pristine waters off the coast of New Zealand, Deep Blue Health Marine Collagen is an excellent way to get your daily dose. Collagen can come from many sources, but Marine Collagen is a vegetarian option and is free from heavy metal contamination. It is a natural bi-product of the New Zealand fishing industry and is a renewable resource which is sustainably harvested.Deep Blue Health Marine collagen is more than just a beauty product. When you take marine collagen you are also protecting your heart and cardiovascular function, nourishing your joints and feeding your bones. Health and beauty are intrinsically linked, when you feel healthy your energy levels and vitality increase. This is the basis of beautiful radiant skin.To view products in our beauty range click here.

WHAT IS A SEA CUCUMBER?Its name would suggest it is a plant and it certainly is packed with lots of minerals, but like most animals this invertebrate creature has a high protein content making a valuable food source. In addition to this, Sea Cucumbers have a number of unusual characteristics not the least of which is their unique self-defence technique.Sea Cucumbers are innocuous creatures that inhabit the seas worldwide. They live on the sandy seafloor and around coral reefs. There are more than one thousand species of sea cucumbers, ranging in size from a few centimetres (one inch) to two metres (several feet). As their name would suggest they have a soft body the shape and texture of a cucumber. Sea Cucumbers have no brain, but have developed a surprising defense mechanism called evisceration: they can expel most of their internal organs (which regrow) to ward off and confuse predators!In Asian cultures Sea Cucumber extract has been used as a traditional health remedy. It contains Chondroitin Sulphate which is an important building block for cartilage and tendons. More recently, studies have found that it has an anti-inflammatory, but the most exciting discovery is that Sea Cucumber is a major and abundant source of Triterpenoids. These naturally occurring organic compounds are most often found in plants such as pine trees, and are known to have anti-tumour properties. In fact, Triterpenoids are the subject of many studies investigating their potential in treatment of chronic diseases including some cancers.Marine sources of Triterpenoids include marine sponges, marine algae and Sea cucumbers. In a journal article published in Molecules (July 2013), entitled ‘Triterpenoids of Marine Origin as Anti-Cancer Agents’ the authors state that: “…triterpenoids are known to exhibit cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cells…” Sea Cucumber in particular contains at least four different Triterpenoids which exhibit properties against breast cancer, pancreatic cancer and leukaemia.Being an invertebrate marine animal it is largely composed of protein, it is low in fat and contains many vitamins and minerals. Clearly, this Asian delicacy has more to offer than just a good meal.This remarkable marine organism has elements of all three – animal, mineral and vegetable. If you are interested in purchasing Deep Blue Health Sea Cucumber capsules click here.

Honey has rightly been called nature's sweet nectar. Not only is it one of the most versatile ingredients to cook with, but is also known to be rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It works wonders for dull hair and skin.Here's everything you need to know about honey and why you should include it in your daily beauty regimen.There's no need to splash out on expensive spa facials when you have some honey lying in your cupboard. Give your skin the benefit of honey's powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and ultra-moisturizing properties and use it as a face mask.For a naturally exfoliating facial, just add some sugar to create a moisturising scrub. Honey is a fantastic moisturiser and works wonders on patches of dry skin.Use it to soften up those knees and elbows, and it will even work wonders on chapped lips. Just rub on some honey, leave it to work on your skin for up to 30 minutes, and then wash off.Honey is also great for relaxing your body. Give your body an added treat by pouring in a few drops of raw honey in your bath water. It helps to soothe tired muscles and moisturise your skin. Try adding other essential oils like lavender oil.Skin Tip: Mix two tablespoons of honey with two teaspoons of milk, apply on your face and let the skin soak up its natural goodness for about 10 minutes and rinse off.For Silky Smooth Hair: Honey has properties that act as a natural agent for moisturising hair and cleansing your scalp. It leaves you with silky smooth hair without stripping them of natural oils.Hair Tip: Add a teaspoonful to your usual shampoo to soften your hair, or combine with olive oil for a deep conditioning treatment - leave to work on damaged locks for 20 minutes before shampooing out.A Natural Energy Booster: Forget your coffee fix and ditch the energy drinks. It's time to say goodbye to the sugar high that more often than not leads to a rapid energy crash and burn.Tip: For a natural energy boost, use honey in place of sugars and sweeteners in your tea, baking and cooking. You'll soon notice the difference in your energy levels.Get Over that Hangover: Had a great party last night that lead to a rather lousy morning? Never mind, honey is at your rescue! A few tablespoons of fructose-packed honey will help speed up your body's metabolism and help you combat the hangover.CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT OUR HONEY RANGE.