Princeton, NJ - November 1, 2005 -- Aging baby boomers (and seniors who are even older) are driving sales and the demand for pharmacists to become more educated about a broad array of natural products, from nutritional supplements to personal care items. Concerned about chronic conditions affecting bones, joints, vision and other hazards of aging, these two demographic groups represent a new vanguard of individuals who want to preserve a youthful appearance as long as possible.

Sixty-nine year old Carmen Dorris became interested in natural foods when she married Dr. Troy Dorris, a biology professor, over 25 years ago. His concerns about the use of pesticides and environmental issues related to food production led him to make major lifestyle changes. Dorris says, "Before I married Troy, I was busy teaching and raising three teenagers. I just bought whatever was on the shelf." After her children were grown and she remarried, she says, "My husband's knowledge of biology and natural foods, in addition to the fact that I had more time to read after I retired, led me to understand that a healthy lifestyle involves really paying attention to what you're putting both in and on your body." She adds, "I think an interest in natural products starts when people end up going to their doctor because of problems with arthritis, calluses, cirrhosis, etc. After a certain age, your health starts turning into a top priority."

Consumers like Dorris have primarily relied on the expertise found at their local health food store for product recommendations. For example, the deodorants she had been using gave her a rash, so it was suggested she try Thai Crystal Deodorant Stone, made from natural mineral salts. She says it solved her problem and she's used it ever since.

However, pharmacists have begun to recognize the potential related to the demand for natural products. A study done by the University of Missouri School of Pharmacy found that 80% of schools surveyed offer some natural product or complementary medicine education. In addition, more pharmacists are taking continuing education courses in natural remedies and supplements.

C. J. Buck, CEO of Xenna Corporation, which distributes natural foot care products, says "Regardless of age, most people never stop caring about how they look and feel. A common pattern for boomers and seniors is to start by taking supplements, which leads to making dietary changes. By that time they're more educated about the benefits of natural ingredients, and develop a preference for natural personal care products as well.

Buck says that pharmacies are continuing to expand their offerings of natural products, but "There continues to be a real need for pharmacists and doctors to educate themselves about consumer preferences and the products available. More and more, consumers are looking for advice, recommendations, and natural choices."

Xenna's podiatrist-recommended NonyX® Nail Gel was developed to provide a unique, natural solution to the problem of yellow, dark or discolored nails, especially toenails - a problem that becomes more common as we age. Buck says, "Men and women who have yellow, discolored toenails often end up living with restrictions on their activities or shoe styles rather than deal with the embarrassment of exposing their bare feet. Unfortunately, the older we get, the more likely we are to develop unattractive toenails or dry, rough skin on our feet."

Buck says diabetic-friendly NonyX Gel is a good example of a product that pharmacists need to know is on their shelves in the footcare section. "For those seeking natural products, NonyX Gel is a logical choice. It dissolves keratin debris - the discolored, yellow or thick granular buildup under nails which is the actual source of embarrassing toenail or fingernail discoloration."

For heels and calluses, podiatrists and pharmacists also recommend Xenna's CalleX® Ointment, which contains natural enzymes to thin calluses and smooth and soften dry, cracked heels within 15 to 30 days. Acid-free and safe for diabetic use, CalleX Ointment also smoothes fingernail cuticles. Many nail salons use CalleX Ointment for both hands and feet as part of a manicure and pedicure, and most users see results on rough cuticles overnight.

NonyX Nail Gel can be purchased in the footcare section of Walgreens, Rite Aid, Longs, Drug Emporium, Brooks, Duane Reade and most Medicine Shoppe drugstores. NonyX Gel will also be available at all Eckerd stores by mid November. You’ll also find it at HEB, Roundy’s and Brookshire grocery stores, through podiatric physicians, independent pharmacies and online at www.drugstore.com, www.FootSmart.com and www.xenna.com.

Callex Ointment is now available in the footcare section at Longs and most Medicine Shoppe pharmacies, as well as from podiatric physicians and online at www.drugstore.com and www.xenna.com. To view photos of nails, heels and calluses, click on www.xenna.com.