Aloe and Health Journal

Detoxification

Virginia — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:58:49 +0000

… the foundation for good health

Detoxification benefits could fill an entire page listing conditions that improve after an inner cleanse. Regardless of whether you are ridding your body of accumulated wastes from food preservatives, food additives and dye, air pollutants, refined sugar, unhealthy eating choices, or parasites… regular detoxification keeps you healthier. It results in improvement in all body functions, including nervous systems that influence every part of our body and our mind.

With skin being the largest organ of our body, better skin health is often one of the first noticeable improvements with inner cleansing. Clearer thinking and improved memory are initially more subtle, but it happens. Detox will benefit every tissue and every function of your body!

While I consider the least expensive, the most gentle and widest-reaching method to detoxify and balance the body is to ingest aloe vera regularly, not everyone is as keen on taking it. But, live foods help to detoxify, support and balance our metabolism, which includes a stronger immune system. An option to aloe vera is to juice regularly with vegetables known to be anti-parasitic. If this becomes too intensive for your schedule, you can buy detox packages at health food stores. Your reaction to a detox package containing a wide range of anti-parasitic herbs that targets your whole system, will depend on your particular body’s level of toxicity. If you have not done an inner cleanse for years, guidance from a health care practitioner experienced in this area may be your safest and most effective choice in order to not need time off work because of adverse reactions from ‘too much, too fast”. For more detailed information on the importance of detoxification and parasites in particular – you can read the article entitled Parasite Cleansing.

It helps to remember we are not in a continuous state of deterioration as we age; that we can do much to retain our energy and vitality with lifestyle choices. Our tissues regenerate, forming new cells throughout each year. Skin, for example, normally regenerates with new cells around every 28 days. Keeping this in mind helps strengthen your self-image of vibrant health that can often be re-gained from food choices and improved lifestyle habits. Inner cleansing lets our organs make the best use of nutrients we provide our body by improving function to ensure maximum uptake of nutrients from the food we eat.

Simple Remedies

Virginia — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 04:29:13 +0000

Dealing with Discomfort or Early Signs of Infection with Natural Remedies

Before a condition worsens into an infection requiring antibiotics, there are a number of easy, natural remedies you can use to lessen and often eliminate a condition.

Colds ~

Sore Throats - gargling with a few teaspoons of natural apple cider vinegar in a glass of water, may hasten recovery from a sore throat. Gargling or holding water in your throat, with a dissolved aspirin in it, will do the same for a raw throat by coating the throat for speedy recovery – if you don’t object to aspirin. Vitamin C with Zinc lozenges are also available to speed healing. Irritable coughs can be soothed with Buckley’s cough syrup or in a pinch, mixing ginger powder into a bit of honey to take in small amounts can reduce coughing.

Prior to reaching the point of this discomfort, ingesting bee products, known for their antimicrobial properties, is well-worth considering. More on the the subject of bee products will be found in the top menu bar of the health journal under Bee Products.

Congestion – 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, or a mix of 1 drop of thyme, 2 drops of eucalyptus and 2 of either Cypress, Lemongrass, Bergamot or Silver Fir added to a bath or inhaled over a bowl of hot water with your head covered with a towel to contain vapours, will open nasal passages to reach the sinuses. A purifying room spray can be made with a similar blend. Use of a humidifier or cool mister during winter months of dry air can provide much relief for congestion, sinus pressure and colds.

Toenails:

Yellowish toenails, if not from using a nail polish without applying a good base coat first, usually indicate a fungal infection. If your toenail has a crack or small split that is not healing, this can also indicate fungal infection. Nightly footbaths using 1 cup of natural apple cider vinegar from a health food store and ½ cup baking soda will purify the feet, and applying 1 drop of oregano oil under or around the nail over the course of two to three weeks, will usually clear the condition. Tea tree essential oil is often used, but when unsuccessful – oregano oil is a powerful option. Another anti-fungal foot bath is using 1 cup apple cider vinegar and ¼ cup borax in the foot soak, followed by the 1 drop of oregano oil. If you have a persistent foot fungus condition, dealing with it systemically is your best solution. The easiest route is to take aloe vera gel on a regular basis because of its anti-fungal properties, or see a health practitioner.

Ears

A drop or two of colloidal silver, said to eliminate 650 pathogens, will usually help an achy or tender ear. Another option is a couple drops of garlic oil in a small amount of olive oil, warmed to room temperature before putting in your ear. Check warmth by touching to your upper lip before dropping warmed oil to your ear. Sinking under the tub water when soaking with 1 cup of apple cider vinegar added to the water is also purifying for your ears.

Eyes

A drop of Collodial silver is a painless and safe alternative for an itchy eye that might become inflamed.

Skin rashes

Oatmeal baths are a traditional remedy for irritated skin. Pharmacies usually have oatmeal bath products available. If not in proximity to a store, baking soda baths have long been a remedy to relieve itching or rashes. A few tablespoons of oatmeal in cheesecloth or a sox left under the running tub water will also release the soothing properties that help irritated skin, although messier than buying a package from the drug stores. Natural apple cider vinegar baths, using 1 cup, are also excellent to purify and heal skin conditions. Topical applications of aloe based creams or gel have long been used for skin improvement. The Forever Living products on this site include a skin cream based on aloe vera and bee propolis or the aloe gelly.

Essential oil of Chamomile has long been known as very soothing and healing for inflamed skin. If unavailable, steeping Chamomile teabags to add to tub water or for bathing the face is a good alternative in a pinch.

Poison Ivy or Poison Oak rashes

The native remedy for poison ivy contact or skin rash is a wash made from Jewelweed, another wildflower usually growing near poison ivy. A search on the internet will bring up sites providing tinctures or other jewelweed products if you are not familiar with an area growing this plant. Otherwise, gently simmering Jewelweed blossoms and/or leaves in a covered enamel or glass pot of warm water will steep it into a soothing wash for a poison ivy antidote.

The poison oak antidote is mugwort, also found growing nearby the poison oak plant. If hiking and you touch either of these, grab fistfuls of the antidote plants and rub into your skin, followed by rinsing with water, as a temporary measure. The brand TECNU is an outdoor skin cleanser designed to clean and decontaminate clothing and skin after exposure to poison oak, poison ivy and sumac, a good option for hikers to carry in their backpack.

Yeast Infections

Sugar feeds yeast, a fungal infection, and kefir is a strong opposition to help rebalance your system – when you’re not drinking aloe vera daily! When kefir is unavailable, ingesting plain organic yogurt provides some help as well as topical application if necessary. When travelling and having an unexpected occurence, 1 drop of tea tree oil in 1 to 2 tsp of carrier oil can be applied to a tampon for some relief as long as you take care to use only 1 drop of tea tree essential oil. Bathing in 1 – 1½ cups of apple cider vinegar is another helpful option. Drinking aloe vera gel or juice on a regular basis will clear this condition because of its antifungal properties, if your sugar intake is reduced or eliminated until the body rebalances to not crave excessive amounts.

Splinters

Soaking a tiny piece of bread in milk and applying to the splinter with a bandaid, will draw the splinter out in a hour or so to allow easy removal with gently squeezing the area. This can also be done with a piece of tomato.

Stings

Using some of your clay mask over the sting reduces it somewhat by drawing out residuals and the stinger that is often left behind. Later, when washed off, Aloe vera gel will soothe the area.

Sprains

A cold application with a gel pack or even a towel, slightly frozen, wrapped around the strained or sprained injury does much to reduce swelling and accelerate healing. The power of a ‘cold flush’ happens when you remove the cold, when the blood rushes in to warm up the tissue, and in this action also flushes wastes from the area.

Chakras

Virginia — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:26:01 +0000

The chakra system, honoured in Ayurvedic and Tibetan teachings for thousands of years, is increasingly being acknowledged in western society. This parallels acceptance of acupuncture from its successful use, a therapy based on energy flowing through the body’s meridian system, as well as expanding use of many other energy therapies. The test is the difference of how you feel after the therapy.

Our experience of reality is said to be coloured by the vibration and health of our chakras. For me, knowledge of this system means an expansion of my awareness that leads to understanding more about self, growth and change. As our awareness of energy within the body grows, we gain insight into why we attract the circumstances into our life that we do. This can help us accept our responsibility to learn the lessons involved and better yet, to perceive alternative choices.

Chakras are usually described as the energy centers or transformers in the body that bring energy in to flow through our nervous systems, influencing all body tissues and functions. Although there are said to be many chakras throughout the body, with some above and below it, seven of the twelve ’major chakras’ of the body are located along the spine, where major nerve ganglia or plexuses are located. They are also said to correspond to our endocrine system.

Influencing how we operate on many levels, these energy centers effect various physical systems as well as emotional and mental responses and resulting thought patterns. The lower body chakras vibrate at a slower or ’lower’ frequency than the upper centers. Each chakra has a different rate of vibration on a particular tone frequency, usually using notes of the major diatonic scale from ’C’ at the root or base chakra progressing to ’B’ at the crown chakra in our head. Sound and light are both forms of energy, so each center is linked to a corresponding physical and etheric colour association because colour is simply a much higher rate of vibration than sound. The physical and etheric colours differ because the physical vibration is lower on the scale than the etheric vibration. One chakra will influence another, just as striking one note on a keyboard resonates harmonic overtones on the keyboard. And, just like an instrument, we operate and sound much better when our chakras vibrate in harmony rather than in discord (with ’discord’ referring to distortions or congested energy influencing a chakra center’s vibratory rate or tone).

Our ability to make choices evolves as we grow, as does the function of our chakra centers. Each one, from the bottom to the top of the body, displays a successively more complex mode of functioning for both body and mind. Varying philosophy exists on which center develops at whatever physical age, but the concept of their development linked to our physical ages and emotions further unravels the choices of our life patterns. A key teaching in the work of Dr. Randolph Stone, D.C., D.O., N.D, (founder of Polarity Therapy) is that no polarization or balance is possible on a permanent basis, if the emotion is not dealt with.

We most often find energetic distortions occurring in the three lower chakras, the earliest to develop and the basis of our growth as an individual. Energy patterns can be held for many years. We may acquire an attitude during our early, impressionable years or from a time when we were simply unable to cope. Until we adjust the thought pattern we adopted from the experience, that energy remains part of us, influencing how we operate and the energy we attract into our life. Once aware of this, we can either adjust our perspective of the cause and our interpretation of it, or develop new positive thought forms to replace it. As Sher Smith (RN, RPP, RCST) has stated, “When our experience (trauma) is beyond our resources, it’s crystallized into the tissues until a time when we’ve accessed enough resources to deal with it.”

In most cases, lack of nurturing in our early developmental years was not intentional, but rather a reflection of the parents or care-givers personal upbringing and behavioural patterns from their life experiences. To own responsibility for changing your own personal concepts is most important for expanding your comprehension level and degree of acceptance, rather than blaming upbringing or someone else for your responses.

Varying degrees of balance are expressed among the chakra centers at different times throughout our life. They all are active, some to varying degrees. It has been said that most people who gather together are moving through the same vibrational frequency or growth of a particular chakra. Having a ’chakra balance’ should leave you feeling relaxed, but how long you hold a balance depends on the changes occurring within you, your responses to circumstances and the key people in your life.

The following outline may help pinpoint the origin of some of your emotional patterns, either by age of experience or by the type of emotions experienced.

*Chakra/Location*	*Color & Tone*	*Element*	*Body Reference*	*Issues*	*1^st Activation*
1^st Chakra (Base or Root) at coccyx	Red: C	Earth	skeleton, feet, legs, adrenal glands, colon	survival, structure, foundation, patience	Approximate ages 1 – 3 years
2^nd Chakra (Navel, Sacral, Sexual) below navel	Orange: D	Water	reproductive system, pelvis & low back, bladder	emotions, sexuality, polarities, desire	Approximate ages 4 – 7 years
3^rd Chakra (Solar Plexus) below sternum	Yellow/Gold: E	Fire	solar plexus, thighs, eyes	self-esteem, power, vitality	Approximate ages 8 – 12
4^th Chakra Heart	Green or Rose: F	Air	heart, lungs	compassion, love, balance	Approximate ages 12 – 15
5^th Chakra Throat	Blue: G	Ether	throat, thymus, esophagus	expression, truth, creativity, reliability	Approximate ages 15 – 17
6^th Chakra Third Eye Brow chakra	Indigo: A		pineal and pituitary glands	insight, moral discernment, intuition	Approximate ages 17 – 22
7^th Chakra Crown (top of head)	Violet: B		pituitary gland	soul, surrender, spirituality, understanding	No defined age

First Chakra (Base or Root)

Development during this early growth period is on a family or ’tribal’ basis, so the first chakra resonates to our basic survival needs and physical comforts. It sets the foundation for our outlook and attitudes as experienced in group situations. Distortions can reside here when early family life contained elements of trauma, death to one of its key members, severe financial struggle or strife and division that influenced the family unit. How easily these types of trauma were handled as a family or ’tribal group’ largely determines how well you move these types of emotions through this chakra. Distortions may manifest as insecurity and fears, finding us resonating to the ’mass’ consciousness or as absent-mindedness whenever our foundation, our stability seems threatened and we feel ungrounded. The first chakra denotes our degree of acceptance or conversely, resentment and rigidity. Fear-based attitudes from this center represent the least evolved platform from which we make decisions and choices, but can show a degree of influence until we change the misconceptions earlier thought processes recorded and restructure our habit of holding that pattern. As an evolving society we are still emotion-based and society’s opinions are always ready to act as our mirror. Distortions here may help us create aspects, true or untrue, that we need at some level in order to bring areas within self to the surface to examine and expand beyond.

Second Chakra (Navel, Sexual or Sacral chakra)

This center pertains to our emotional identity and sexuality. Our consciousness first expands beyond survival of self to dualism at this chakra level, so it’s said to represent the balancing of polarities: male/female, positive/negative, relationships and how we relate to others with our ’gut-level’ emotions. Balanced energy flowing through this center would influencve the degree that we can harmoniously work with others, giving and receiving, tolerance, healthy emotional boundries, how we handle change and sexual or passionate love. Repressed emotions and trauma easily settle into this center. Energy congestion here may display as a movement to disorder, and thought forms like “It’s not safe to commit to a relationship” or “I mustn’t get close to…”

Third Chakra (Solar plexus)

A person who feels powerless in controlling the direction of their life could take a look at thought forms that may have become established around the ages of 7 to 12, when our self-concept is further expanded from family to the world outside. Balanced energy in this center might be seen as the balanced use of personal power, mastery of desire, self-control, warmth, humour and radiance. Whenever feelings of inadequacy, inferiority and helplessness occur, they may influence this chakra’s balance. Distorted energy flows may manifest as a tendancy to take on more then you can handle, or too much emphasis on power and recognition, perfectionism, anger or fear. Digestive problems may result. Thought forms indicative of distortions or congestion might include “nothing comes easy in my life”, or “my survival depends on you…” The solar plexus center has been called a great clearing house, and makes a trio of the lower three chakras that reflect up to the heart center.

Fourth Chakra (Heart chakra)

This center unites the energies above with the energies below, meaning both the lower chakras of our body with the higher chakras, and also spirit with physical. It reflects our ability to express love, for our self and for others. Not to be confused with sexuality, the heart center reacts under group impetus, group happiness or unhappiness and group relations. Here we expand beyond self. Forgiveness and compassion resonate within the heart center, as does acceptance and contentment. Growth may be expressed in compassion, non-judgmental understanding, care towards others, or loving relationships with family and friends. Feeling and wisdom are awakened at the heart center. Distortions are said to present in such thought forms as “I can’t do all I should, I feel guilty”, or “there’s always something missing in my life”.

Fifth Chakra (Throat)

This chakra governs our ability to recognize our own truth , our ability to communicate and all forms of self-expression. Energetic distortions may manifest as vocal cord difficulties, mouth, trachea, esophagus and thyroid conditions. Thought forms indicating it’s time to address the energy at this chakra may be something like, “If I express my true feelings and needs, I’ll be ridiculed”.

Sixth Chakra (Anja or Brow)

Said to govern the growth of our vision and moral discernment, this center deals with our ability to see the world around us and to perceive without prejudice. Also termed the “seat of our spirituality”, when clear-flowing, we have direct, intuitive insight into our life, accompanied with peace of mind and wisdom. When this chakra activates, between the ages 17 – 22, we usually are ready to achieve independence and explore personal values. The higher chakra centers, (from the heart up) in addition to functioning on an individual basis, also represent our growth as a society expanding in group consciousness and spirituality. If we think of the chakras as regions of mind power, or interrelated thought patterns, it paints a clearer picture of their dual role in the evolution of individual growth from the lower to the higher chakras as well as society as an evolving group. Energy distortions may manifest as being enslaved by a compulsive drive for your own brand of perfectionism, which naturally leaves you falling short, becoming prey to guilt. Cynicism and lack of concentration or imagination abilities also said to resonate from imbalance in this center.

Seventh Chakra (Crown chakra)

Our spiritual search resonates from this center, and may begin quite early in life or never happen in a given lifetime. When separated from our spiritual connection at this chakra level, there is no meaning in life apart from purpose shifting among goals to acquire worldly gain, social status or physical pleasure.

Chakra system balance

What do the chakras have to do with massage or polarity therapy? Therapies to balance either the physical body or the energy body reflect into all areas to some degree, according to the intent and skill application of a practitioner and the level of acceptance of the client. While massage therapy always moves energy to some degree as the tissue softens its holding patterns, the energy change is more noticeable when the practitioner is aware of energy and uses some energy techniques to acknowledge energy flow. Polarity therapy techniques evolved to balance the energy field of a person, with focus being to ease underlying causes that developed into physical concerns. Energy balance is achieved by adjusting the flow of energy through knowledgeable application of the various types of energy, understanding how they manifest or influence our total person and our responses. Energy is like water, continuously flowing, but distortions can occur in our system and cause an interruption in the smooth, optimum flow.

The beauty of Polarity Therapy is that rather than focus on any one aspect it uses a whole-being approach. With this perspective, it accesses all systems from the chakras to the nervous systems, to body tissues, and most importantly… thought processes. Dr. Stone largely based this energetic work on ancient Ayurvedic principles that had attained positive results for thousands of years. It incorporates an understanding of the energetic grid-work of the body as the source from which we develop, including emotional and mental makeup, as well as physical appearance. Dr. Stone recognized the importance of brain crossover patterns. Today, Polarity Therapy, One Brain, Psyche-K and Paul Dennison’s Brain Gym®, Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy are all techniques or therapies that provide yet another method to access ingrained mental and emotional patterns you wish to change, teaching the body/mind unit to revert to integration and balance.

While it often may be important to acknowledge the point where you acquired a misconception in order to change it, one worthwhile philosophy to also consider is that things are set in motion before you come into physical form. We are said to incarnate to serve a higher purpose, both for our own growth and for the good of others. Or, stated another way, we ’experience life patterns that will bring out the part of us that doesn’t yet know God’.

This theory acknowledges that mistakes can happen when someone gets their messages reversed, that the power to choose is a large component of how things unfold. You could say that represents the ’free will’ part, both on an individual basis or as a society that sometimes ’turns a blind eye’.

A quick energy balance on yourself can be done whenever you notice energy tightening in a particular chakra center. Hold your right, positive-energy hand over the front of the chakra and your left negative-energy hand over the stem of the chakra on your back. This helps adjust the flow of energy through it. You can also visualize a stream of the associated colour flowing between your hands through the chakra while closing your eyes to focus with three or four deep, diaphragmatic breaths. When you adjust your thought patterns, you are also adjusting the energy pattern flowing through the chakra that resonates to that thought or emotional vibration. Whether you start to change your lifestyle with polarity therapy, nutrition, massage therapy, yoga, fitness programs or art lessons, it all begins with your thoughts and your choices. Once you choose health for yourself, it spirals into more and more areas that assist you and those within your life to feel better on many levels.

Fountain of Youth

Virginia — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:14:44 +0000

Walk, Stretch & Breathe your way to Good Health

The human body simply wasn’t made for sitting all day like most jobs demand. We’re designed for movement. Exercise is our replacement for hours spent at workplace computers and is a vital component in oxygenating tissues, releasing stress from emotional, mental and physical levels, retaining flexibility and increasing circulation and lymphatic flow. Based on even a 30-minute daily walk (beginning with a 10-minute warm-up, 30-minutes of continuous walking, and ending with a 5-minute cool-down) studies show improvement in all body functions and significantly reduced depression and anxiety. Not that we need a study to tell us that! Notice the difference in your wellbeing before the exercise and after, and remember it as the incentive to make exercise a regular habit in your life.

Walking impacts everything from blood sugar and cholesterol levels, weight control, lung function and oxygenation to tissues. This simple activity actually improves everything… from muscles (including leg cramps or poor circulation) to organs and let’s not forget – our mind. It relieves depression, anxiety and stress by producing endorphins, the body’s natural tranquilizer. What an easy way to put a smile on your face!

People with health problems need proper guidance to plan an exercise program that suits their individual needs. Begin gently, but gradually increase exercise time. For those opting to exercise at home, the best possible solution is to have a Certified Personal Trainer set up a program suitable to your individual needs and body type. Receiving professional instruction about proper form, and which muscle groups to work when, can be paired with complementary nutritional guidance. This kind of guidance assures that you stick with a program until it becomes a habit you enjoy because of the results. You feel good! Check out the various types of training available, as there are a variety of personal trainer courses that have varying methods of focus on how to work muscle groups.

Why stretch? Because muscles stretched to their proper length are healthier with no strain on bone attachments, resulting in greater flexibility. This means less chance of injury if you slip. Stretching helps develop body awareness and loosens the mind’s control of the body. It should be part of your daily life and can begin as easily as hugging your knees to roll slowly from side-to-side before jumping out of bed.

Your muscles are protected by a mechanism called the stretch reflex. When you stretch the muscle fibers too far (either by bouncing or overstretching), a nerve reflex sends a signal to the muscles to contract in order to prevent injury. Hence, the painful “spasm” when we don’t listen. Stretching, when done correctly, is not painful. Learn to pay attention to your body, because pain is an indication that something is wrong.

Hand in hand with stretch, is breath. Your breathing should be slow, under control and rhythmical when stretching. Yoga , Pilates or NIA dancercize courses are but a few examples that provide an excellent base for socialization and guidance in stretching, exercise or breathwork, providing benefits for a calmer mind and body. Meditation then, is just a breath away, so to speak… and is one of the greatest natural healers you can tap into.

Kefir and Yogurt

Virginia — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:42:33 +0000

The debate may continue on which is better for our health, yogurt or kefir, but the easiest test is eating it to see the results. In my experience, I found excellent improvement in my digestive system after adding kefir to my diet, and now consider it a superfood.

Both yogurt and kefir are fermented or cultured dairy products that provide calcium, B vitamins, potassium, protein, live enzymes and beneficial bacteria. They have a tart flavour with kefir being slightly sharper. Enzymes in both plain yogurt and kefir break down lactose which is the principal sugar in milk, making them easier to digest than other dairy products. Traditional, plain yogurt and kefir work as a remedy for anyone with digestive disorders, usually including those who are lactose-intolerant.

Yogurt is made by culturing fresh milk that was previously boiled and cooled, with a bacteria starter added. Kefir is made by culturing fresh milk with live kefir grains and contains more beneficial bacteria strains, with a major difference being that they take up residence in our intestines rather than just coating the intestinal lining, as with probiotic capsules or yogurt. Kefir, then, is in a different class of ferments than live-cultured yogurt because it contains major strains of friendly bacteria and beneficial yeasts not commonly found in yogurt. While yogurt’s bacteria help keep our intestines clean, it must be eaten each day to maintain the benefit. Kefir, in contrast, becomes a ‘resident’ bacteria that will do battle against pathogens we may ingest. If you notice increased gas on the first day of eating kefir, you can take odourless garlic capsules which eliminate odour and gas. Your system will adjust to the benefits of kefir in a day or so as it is rebalanced.

The wide range of health benefits attributed to kefir include a healthier digestive system and colon, making it beneficial for all digestive conditions including yeast problems, as well as eliminating pathogenic bacteria, helping bowel conditions, ulcers and even strengthening our immune system. Some believe that kefir may also be able to prevent serious health problems and research is ongoing regarding this claim at a number of university research sites.

It is reported that kefir can be made from soy milk, nut milk, seeds, coconut, or cereal grains, with almond or coconut milk highly recommended as a tasty treat. When it comes to buying it, the 1 kg glass jar varieties from organic grocery stores or Whole Foods organic groceries, seem more flavourful and slightly thicker. Those who make it, say there is no comparison to home-made, but that experience is still in my future.

Kefir can be used in the same manner as yogurt to become a topping, as is or diluted with water to be a milk-like addition on cereal, taken as a refreshing snack alone or with berries, served as a side-dish with spicy foods, used to marinate meats, or as a topping with the addition of cucumber or dill to enhance any meal. Pronunciation seems to be k-feer’, but it’s more important to try it than worry about how you say it!

Foods that Heal

Virginia — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:35:15 +0000

“Let your food be your medicine, and your medicine be your food.“ ~ Hippocrates. (ca 460 BC – 360 BC)

If we omit the issue on genetically modified food and eliminate processed fast-food options, Hippocrate’s statement that ‘food is the best medicine’ is as valid today as it was in his day. The organic option provides food grown in fields that are organically fertilized, produce that is not from Genetically Modified seed sources and assures no residuals of pesticides or herbicides in the crop – and according to some studies to date, contains superior nutrient content. We’re back to real food then.

When it comes to quality foods packed with nutrients, there is a long, delicious list to choose from. It’s important to read country of origin and decide if you are OK with food from genetically modified genes, largely grown in the USA. You can check at greenpeace.ca for current information and guidelines. The excerpt below reinforces information that Canada has not yet embraced GMO foods to the same degree the USA has.

“Ottawa, Monday 20 July 2009. The announcement that Canada has agreed to end its World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute with Europe over genetically modified (GM) foods is being greeted as a step forward by the Canadian Biotechnology Action Network. The agreement between Canada and Europe could lead to a much needed, comprehensive overhaul of Canada`s policies on GM food including implementing the precautionary principle, ratifying the Biosafety Protocol, and establishing mandatory GM food labeling. “

Many foods in the ‘power list’ here are great health-building snacks for in-between meals and tasty additions to lunches. All are well-worth becoming acquainted with as part of your regular diet. Much of the information is from whfoods.com where George Mateljan has an excellent site with healthy recipes and food nutrient content.

This introduction to a few power foods that have been studied for positive health impact may encourage you to do your own research and use these foods in your diet more often. If you are not a vegetable person… yet – a great option is a quality green drink. Use of a slow cooker or crockpot is almost a necessity today to provide a delicious hot meal prepared from fresh produce, ready to greet you when you come home hungry. Slow cooker’s are also a very healthy cooking method to preserve nutrient content of food and not overcook. Most modern slow cooker’s now come with a built-in timer. Many of the recipes at whfoods.com have a short prep and cook time to provide perfect additions to a slow cooker’s soup or main dish.

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Vegetables

Artichokes – contain silymarin, an antioxidant that is a polyphenolic flavonoid, also found in milk thistle. Said to help prevent skin cancer, and help control cholesterol levels. One medium artichoke has 60 calories, 0 fat and 7 grams of fiber. Steam over boiling water for 30 to 40 minutes. Similar to milk thistle, it has been known for ages as beneficial for liver and gallbladder conditions. Also for ‘cleaning’ the blood, and helping the bladder.

Aloe Vera Gel – quality depends on method of harvest and processing, but this power food is worth trying for its wide health benefits. Contains live enzymes, B vitamins including B12, minerals, antioxidants and all 8 essential amino acids the body cannot manufacture. As a gel, aloe vera does not need breakdown and processing through our digestive system as with solid food sources, before uptake.

Bok Choy (Chinese Cabbage) – contains Brassinin, which some research suggests may help prevent breast tumors, also Indoles and Isothiocyanates, which lower levels of estrogen, make this vegetable a double-barreled weapon against breast cancer. A cup will also give you 158mg of calcium (16 percent of your daily recommended requirement) to help beat osteoporosis. A cup (cooked) has 20 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Find it in your grocer’s produce section or an Asian market. Slice the greens and juicy white stalks, then saute like spinach or toss into a stir-fry just before serving.

Broccoli - lots of vitamin C and beta-carotene. One cup (chopped) has 25 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Don’t overcook broccoli – instead, steam lightly to preserve phytonutrients. Squeeze fresh lemon on top for a zesty taste, added nutrients and some vitamin C

Carrots - Jay Kordich, the Juice man, based most of his juicing recipes on carrots and said that consuming vegetables with beta carotene acts as a guard against an array of cancers, as well as other healthy properties. The beta carotene in carrots is also found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, Brussel sprouts, kale, greens, watercress, kohlrabi and rutabagas (turnip). George Mateljan reports carrot as ‘an excellent source of antioxidant compounds, and the richest vegetable source of the pro-vitamin A carotenes. Carrots’ antioxidant compounds help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer and also promote good vision, especially night vision. All yellow and orange vegetables contain beta-carotene, as well as dark leafy green vegetables. Beta-Carotenes and other anti-oxidants, and their role in helping against cancer is still being research.

Plant beta-carotene can be converted once in the body, into a nutrient identical to the vitamin A from animal sources, with all the same benefits. The bonus is that after conversion any excess beta-carotene can be more safely stored than vitamin A. Unlike water-soluble vitamins B-complex and Vitamin C that need regular replacement in the body, fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A are stored in the liver and fatty tissues, and are eliminated much more slowly than water-soluble vitamins.

George further writes that carrots ‘help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer. Also to promote good vision, especially night vision, and help in protection against macular degeneration and cataracts.

High carotenoid intake has been linked with a 20% decrease in postmenopausal breast cancer and an up to 50% decrease in the incidence of cancers of the bladder, cervix, prostate, colon, larynx, and esophagus. Extensive human studies suggest that a diet including as little as one carrot per day could conceivably cut the rate of lung cancer in half.’

Cooking carrots slightly (steaming) helps access full nutritional benefits. The fiber in carrots can trap the beta carotene, making it difficult for your body to extract. Overcooking diminishes the beta-carotene, but slight cooking frees the beta-carotene from the fiber, allowing better absorption. Serve with olive oil or butter since beta-carotene is fat-soluble. Best to cut off leafy tops before storing to not lose vitamin content. Juicing carrots will also break apart the fibers allowing beta-carotene direct absorption.

Garlic - Sulfur compounds give garlic its pungent flavor and can also lower LDL (”bad”) cholesterol, lower blood pressure and even reduce your risk of stomach and colon cancer. One clove has 4 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Bake a whole head for 15 to 20 minutes, until soft and sweet and spread on bread instead of butter.

Ginger - contains Gingerols may help reduce queasiness; other compounds may help ward off migraines and arthritis pain by blocking inflammation-causing prostaglandins. Considered anti-parasitic, ginger is always served with sushi for intestinal clearing. Excellent for colds as a tea and for indigestion. A teaspoon of fresh gingerroot has only 1 calorie, 0 fat and no fiber. Peel off the outer brown skin and slice or grate.

Onions, like garlic, are members of the Allium family, and both are rich in powerful sulfur-containing compounds responsible for many health benefits. Also rich in chromium, a trace mineral that helps cells respond to insulin, onions help balance sugar cravings; contain vitamin C and numerous flavonoids – most notably, quercitin – a powerful antioxidant being studied for possible protection against cancer cells. Both onions and garlic are also classed as a prebiotic as they contain oligofructose and inulin, important to stimulate the growth of beneficial strains of bacteria (probiotics) in our large intestines. Onion, like garlic, helps lower blood sugar levels and undesirable cholesterol levels to influence blood pressure and heart health. Studies are showing that eating onions two or more times weekly helps reduce incidence of colon problems and cancer. 1 cup chopped = 61 calories, 0 fat, 3 grams of fiber.

Spinach – contains Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that help fend off macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in ageing people. Studies show this green fountain of youth may help reverse some signs of aging. One cup has 7 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Add raw leaves to a salad or saute with a little olive oil and garlic.

Squash – Butternut, Pumpkin, Acorn – Winter squash has huge amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which may help protect against endometrial cancer. One cup (cooked) has 80 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Cut on in half, scoop out the seeds and bake or microwave until soft, then dust with cinnamon. Or, try bakind with an ample sprinkle of a tasty herb, like basil or tarragon.

Watercress and Arugula - contain Phenethyl isothiocyanate, which, along with beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, may help keep cancer cells at bay. One cup has around 4 calories, 0 fat and 1 gram of fiber. Do not cook these leafy greens; instead, use them to garnish a sandwich or add a pungent, peppery taste to salad.

Fruits

Apricots – High beta-carotene, turns into vitamin A in our body, making apricots an important heart health and vision food. 17 calories, 0 fat. Excellent gentle help for constipation.

Avocado - Low in sodium, a good source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Folate. Avocado also contains oleic acid (Omega 9), an unsaturated fat that helps lower overall cholesterol and raise levels of HDL. A very concentrated source of the carotenoid lutein; it also contains measurable amounts of related carotenoids (zeaxanthin, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene) and significant quantities of tocopherols (vitamin E). In the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, an extract of avocado containing these carotenoids and tocopherols inhibited the growth of both androgen-dependent and androgen-independent prostate cancer cells, with the whole matrix of carotenoids and tocopherols in avocado necessary for its ability to kill the cancer cells. 11 vitamins and 17 minerals. 81 calories per slice, but the right kind of fats you need – in moderation.

Bananas – one of the highest sources of vitamin B6 which plays an important role in converting tryptophan to serotonin, implicated in reduced levels of stress. B6 helps the body make hemoglobin – a crucial ingredient of blood, and is essential for antibody production and to maintain a healthy immune response. It also helps convert carbohydrates to glucose to maintain proper blood sugar levels. A medium banana can provide 1/5th of your daily recommended intake of B6 and is one of the easiest ways to increase your intake. (references: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements).

Bananas contain a high dose of potassium – an essential ingredient to keep a healthy heart and nervous system. Potassium is essential for proper muscle contraction and plays an important role in muscle-influenced activities including pumping of the heart, digestion and muscular activity. Some studies have linked low potassium intake to high blood pressure. Benefits to the kidneys and the bones are also due to the potassium content.

Cantaloupe – concentrated beta-carotene content makes it an excellent source of Vitamin A after converted in the body. Excellent for skin and eye health. Very high in vitamin C with 1 cup containing 112% of the daily value recommended. Contains almost twice as much potassium as a banana, known for helping to lower blood pressure. ½ a melon contains 97 calories. Best eaten on its own before heavier cereals, breads. An excellent snack food.

Cranberry Juice – valued for their ability to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections for hundreds of years, now confirmed from a 1994 scientific study where participants consumed 1 ¼ to 2 cups daily. An antibacterial agent, hippuric acid, acidifies the urine. Other compounds reduce the ability of E. coli bacteria to adhere to the walls of the urinary tract. 1 cup berries = 144 calories or buy 100% juice and add to your daily water. (no sugar)

Figs – a good source of potassium and fiber, figs also contain vitamin B6, which is responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin, lowering cholesterol and preventing water retention. The Pill depletes B6, so if you use this method of birth control, make sure to get extra B6 in your diet. One fig has 37 to 48 calories, 0 fat and 2 grams of fiber. (Cookie lovers – fig bars have around 56 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber per cookie).

Lemons/Limes – contain Limonene, furocoumarins and vitamin C, all of which help prevent cancer. A wedge has 2 calories, 0 fat and 0 fiber. Buy a few of each and squeeze over salads, fish, beans and vegetables for fat free, tangy flavor. Good in your drinking water to stimulate your system and cleanse your breath/lungs,

Raisins – a great source of Iron, which helps the blood transport oxygen. A half-cup has 218 calories, 0 fat and 3 grams of fiber. Sprinkle raisins on your morning oatmeal or bran cereal – women should consider this especially during their period. Nutritious and satisfying snack for children’s school lunches.

Raspberries – contains over 80 nutrients, including ellagic acid that prevents damage to cell membranes by neutralizing free radicals. Also flavonoids like quercetin – an anthocyanin also in blueberries and aloe vera, with unique antioxidant properties. One cup raspberries = 60 calories, 1 gram of fat and 8 grams of fiber.

Tomato - high Vitamin C, A and K content. Studies on the carotenoid lycopene in tomatoes showed antioxidant and cancer-preventing properties due to its ability to help protect cells from oxygen damage, and was linked to protection of DNA inside of white blood cells. Has been repeatedly studied in humans for anti-cancer benefits of lycopene. Best absorbed with some fat like olive oil. 1 tomato = 26 calories, 0 fat. Organic is preferred. Known for good colon and prostate health. (A very old remedy was to put a piece of tomato on a splinter with a band-aid to draw it out, and then gentle squeeze it completely out.)

Grains, Beans and Nuts

Chickpeas (Garbanzo beans) – an excellent source of protein, molybdenum, manganese, folate and tryptophan, with copper, phosphorus and iron. A good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. In addition to lowering cholesterol, garbanzos’ high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans an especially good choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance or hypoglycemia. When combined with whole grains such as rice, garbanzos provide virtually fat-free high quality protein. An great snack in yogurt, kefir or in cottage cheese lightly spiced with your favourite herbs.

Lentils - contain Isoflavones, which may inhibit estrogen-promoted breast cancers, plus fiber for heart health and an impressive 9 grams of protein per half cup. A half-cup (cooked) has 115 calories, 0 fat and 8 grams of fiber. Isoflavones hold up through processing, so buy lentils canned, dried or already in soup. Take them to work, and you will have a protein packed lunch.

Pinto Beans – A half cup has more than 25 percent of your daily requirement of folate, which helps protect against heart disease and reduces the risk of birth defects. A half-cup (canned) has 103 calories, 1 gram of fat and 6 grams of fiber. Drain a can, rinse and toss into a pot of vegetarian chili.

Quinoa - A half cup of cooked quinoa has 5 grams of protein, more than any other grain, plus iron, riboflavin and magnesium. A half-cup has 318 calories, 5 grams of fat and 5 grams of fiber. Add to soup for a protein boost. Rinse first, or it will taste bitter.

Wheat Germ - one tablespoon gives you about 7 percent of your daily magnesium, which helps prevent muscle cramps; it is also a good source of vitamin E. One tablespoon has 27 calories, 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of fiber. Sprinkle some over yogurt, fruit or cereal.

Nuts - Researchers have determined that nuts, when used in moderation, can make very beneficial contributions to a healthful diet. Nuts provide many of the same nutrients as other protein sources, like meat and poultry, but without the saturated fat.

There is new evidence that unsaturated fats found in foods such as nuts, vegetable and fish, can lower the risk of several chronic diseases. Studies have shown significant drops in cholesterol when people add walnuts, almonds, pistachios, peanuts or other nuts to their diets.

(Peanuts are technically legumes but are eaten like nuts and have similar nutrition.) In addition to mono- and polyunsaturated fats, nuts contain vitamin E, protein, magnesium, potassium and fiber – all potential cancer-fighting substances. The key to including nuts in your diet is moderation. Grinding one tablespoon of two varieties is an excellent addition to your morning cereal.

Salt Choices

Virginia — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:30:00 +0000

Some Cure, Some Kill

Salt is necessary to regulate our body’s water content and affects various chemical functions including iodine levels that are so vital for immune and gland function, such as thyroid health. The key to benefit or detriment is largely in the kind of salt you ingest. While most now realize table salt is not the recommended choice, the emerging awareness in sea salts is that purity is dependent on where the salt ponds are located, how the salt is harvested and equally as important, the method of packaging. But, for body uptake and health benefits, a pure, natural mineral salt containing all the minerals and enzymes of sea water is recommended.

Warnings about excess salt intake mainly apply to common table salt. While salt mines for table salt are deposits of former ancient seas, the salt is dried and processed at high temperatures, apparently leaving almost no mineral content. The resulting changes in structure are said to cause our body to not be able to fully process it, eventually resulting in adverse health. There are, then, enormous differences between refined table salt and natural salts with differences that can have major impact on our wellbeing. While it’s true that table salt has iodine added and sea salts have little iodine content, there are healthier ways to obtain your iodine than with table salt.

Unrefined and unprocessed sea salt is reported to be a balanced mixture of essential minerals in proportions that closely resemble our body’s chemical composition. In fact, without intake of a pure, mineralized salt, some of the difficulties our body may encounter range from respiratory and blood sugar difficulties to high blood pressure, cellular degeneration, kidney and adrenal stress, fatigued muscles and excess water retention or weight.

With the variety of salts now available, making an informed choice leaves us largely at the mercy of company promotional literature. My misconception that darker salt varieties indicated good mineral content vanished after listening to the experience of one Ontario salt supplier. After numerous inquiries about purity, he independently paid for testing by an Ontario laboratory for the sea salts he imported to sell. In the salt business for 10 years, his own research, testing and the education he received is worth repeating.

The lab tests showed the difference between table salt and sea salt can be a difference also found among varieties of sea salts and their levels of purity. The colour of natural sea salt does not come from mineral content, but from the type and colour of the clay lining a salt pond. We see grey salts from the coastal region of France, for example, and red and black mineral sea salt options from Hawaii where ponds can either be lined with a red clay or a black clay. In contrast, if we look at a gourmet sea salt used on many television cooking shows, such as Flower of the Ocean, we find it’s a more expensive purchase at $35 per pound, it is pure white. That is not because of processing! The pure white appearance is because it’s harvested only during the two hottest weeks of summer when high natural heat causes the salt to crystallize and float on top of the salt pond. It can then be scooped out without disturbing the clay under the water. This demonstrates that a pure, natural sea salt complete with high mineral content is white and that the colour of a salt, in fact, shows combination with clay particles during the harvesting process.

The second consideration when buying a pure salt is where it is harvested from in our world. With the northern hemisphere historically supporting the greatest population concentrations and more industrialization, it unfortunately results in the area having more pollution. This touches everything and everywhere, from our ground and our lakes to the people. The third consideration is how salt from a natural salt pond is not only harvested, but equally importantly, how is it packaged for re-sale. If the harvesting is done with traditional methods of using wooden paddles but it is packaged through a metal machine, it electro-magnetically changes the salt.

With the above in mind and test results supplied on various salts the supplier had compared, I now recommend and use Nature’s Cargo sea salts, harvested in South American salt ponds by traditional methods, where there has been and still is, less pollution. It has been independently tested in Ontario for purity and low levels of lead and aluminum, contrasting some salts that tested for surprisingly high lead content.

In natural salts, the silicon content normally cancels out any alum content unless the aluminum level is greatly above the natural balance found in healthy sea water. Nature’s Cargo unrefined sea salts can be safely ingested knowing you are obtaining its living enzymes and all of its beneficial elements found in pure sea water, with no chemicals or preservatives added and without packaging through metal machines. The Nature’s Cargo supplier further inspects it and purifies with light. Pure mineral salts helps to balance and nourish our body with minerals we need.

It is particularly good for helping to clear excessive mucous. Available in coarse or fine grain, it’s also an excellent salt for use in a neti pot.

As in everything, salt should be taken in moderation, but you will find you need less of this salt for flavour enhancement. It is worth remembering that sea salts do not contain high levels of iodine, an essential trace element needed for proper thyroid and immune function in everyone. For adequate intake of iodine if you switch to sea salts, be aware of obtaining your iodine through seaweed and kelp that can be added to soups or stews, eating seafood regularly, eggs, or using Lugol’s iodine drops if you don’t regularly eat seafood. To test if you need iodine (available at most health food stores), swab a small amount of iodine on your inner arm. If your arm is still coloured reddish at the 24-hour mark, you don’t need more iodine. If it is quickly absorbed with no sign of the colour left, you need more.

Vaccine or Homeopathic

Virginia — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:36:43 +0000

… for cold and flu prevention

No one lives with the results of taking a particular preventive but the person who takes it, so the most important thing is that each adult makes their own informed decision because there is much controversy on this subject.

If you have not been taking ‘power’ foods or supplements for some months to strength your metabolism, once flu season arrives, it’s time to make a choice on a preventive. Below is an excerpt from Randall Neustaedter’s book, regarding the homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum, widely used for 2009-2010’s flu season.

Homeopathic remedies do not carry the risk of side-effects or of causing you to acquire the virus, because homeopathic remedies are not made from large molecules of the actual diseases, like vaccines are. The successful use of homeopathic remedies is a historical fact recorded with epidemics of scarlet fever, typhoid and flu, for example. The success rate in epidemics was far from 100% in either conventional or homeopathic choices, but homeopathy’s success rate was sometimes higher than conventional medical treatment. Until homeopathy encountered adversity with the American Medical Association, there were various homeopathic hospitals throughout North America. Today, homeopathic remedies are available from Homeopaths and from some pharmacies or health store locations. In this area, both Hooper’s Pharmacy locations in Port Credit and Brampton as well as the Village Health Store on Erin Mills Parkway, carry this year’s flu preventive of Influenzinum, and Oscillococcinum which is used in particular for those already experiencing flu symptoms. Influenzinum is taken before flu season arrives, or as soon as you can before onset of symptoms. If you have the flu, homeopathics can lessen symptoms and shorten duration. Homeopathic remedies are inexpensive, under $20 for a package of multiple vials. Informative websites worth reading are listed at the end of the excerpt below.

If choosing any particular supplement, taking Bee Propolis can certainly not hurt, because of its broad antimicrobial activity that includes antiviral properties. More information on propolis is here in the Bee Product section. Vitamin D blood analysis does not appear to be a regular part of blood analysis yet, but you can request it when blood analysis is done. Adequate levels of ‘D’ are vital for proper immune function. Cod liver oil is but one source. Lugol’s Iodine is available at health food stores and is part of a strong immune system. If your body has adequate levels and you don’t need more, a swab of iodine on your arm will still be visible up to 24 hours later. And, Collodial Silver is reported to kill around 650 different pathogens. A strong immune system, coupled with hand and nasal cleansing, is a strong preventive….especially with homeopathic remedies added.

~ ~ ~

“FLU: Alternative Treatments and Prevention (North Atlantic Books, 2005).

Oscillococcinum Clinical Study in France

Begin taking the homeopathic preparation………. then switch to the appropriate homeopathic medicine once your symptoms begin to develop clear characteristics.

Oscillococcinum was first studied in France during the 1987 flu epidemic caused by an H1N1 virus. This multi-center study examined the effect of Oscillococcinum (200C) on the early symptoms of flu. Results were published in the peer-reviewed British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. More patients in the treatment group recovered completely in the first 48 hours than the control group (17 percent of patients with active treatment compared to 10 percent of controls). More patients in the treatment group also judged the treatment as favorable compared to the placebo, 61 percent vs 49 percent (Ferley, 1989).

In 1990 German physicians replicated the French study of Oscillococcinum. They used the same criteria as the previous study and enrolled 372 patients. After 48 hours of treatment with Oscillococcinum the treatment group had significantly milder symptoms than the control group, and the number of patients with no symptoms from day two onward was significantly greater in the treatment group (17.4 percent) compared to the control group (6.6 percent) (Papp, 1998).

Both of these studies show a significant curative effect of a homeopathic medicine in the treatment of flu in carefully conducted, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Conventional antiviral drugs reduce the duration of flu by about one day if taken within the first 48 hours of illness (Cooper, 2003). Comparing the results of these studies with the meager effect of conventional treatment shows that homeopathy carries the potential to make a dramatic difference in any flu epidemic without the risk of drug side effects.

Another effective herb for relieving flu symptoms is black elderberry extract (Sambucol). Elderberry proved to cut short the flu by four days in a double-blind controlled study. Nearly 90 percent of patients given elderberry extract were completely cured with 2-3 days. In the control group it took six days for 90 percent of patients to recover (Zakay-Rones, 2004). A second clinical study showed similar results. Among the group receiving elderberry, 75 percent were much improved within two days, and 90 percent were completely cured by day three. The control group took six days before 90 percent were cured (Zakay-Rones, 1995). In that study elderberry was also found to inhibit the replication of both type A and type B flu viruses.

Those researchers also investigated the mode of action of elderberry on viruses. They found that elderberry inhibited the enzyme that attaches the virus to human cells and also inhibited the enzyme that breaks down the human cell wall allowing the virus to enter and kill the cell. Another group of researchers also showed that elderberry activates the immune system by increasing inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production (Barak, 2002).

First-stage treatment for flu (day one)

Oscillococcinum 200C ½ vial 3 times per day

Vitamin C 4–6 grams per day

Vitamin A 10,000–25,000 IU per day

Yin Chiao 3 times per day

Echinacea 900 mg powder per day, or 3 droppers

3 times per day

Sambucol 2 teaspoons per day

Often the initial treatment protocol will stop the illness and the symptoms will go away. If flu symptoms continue, move on to the next phase of treatment. If you have access to an acupuncturist, herbalist, or homeopathic practitioner, seek out their advice.

You can also choose a homeopathic medicine yourself that is indicated for the particular symptoms of your flu. Once specific characteristic symptoms have established themselves, it is possible to find the correct homeopathic medicine. The two most frequently indicated homeopathic flu medicines over the past 100 years have been Gelsemium and Bryonia. Significant differences in the symptom pictures of these two medicines make it easy to decide which is the better fit. They are not the only medicines used to treat the flu, but between them they will probably fit the majority of cases.

Bryonia and Gelsemium type flus both come on slowly over a six- to twelve-hour period. You begin to feel gradually worse over that time. By the second day you have aching muscles, feel pretty bad, and usually have a headache. A Bryonia patient has more pain in the front of the head, which is definitely made worse by moving the head or moving the eyes, and feels better from pressing the hand on the head. A Gelsemium patient has pain in the back of the head with stiffness and aching in the neck and across the shoulders. With a Gelsemium flu you will not want to move much either, and you may feel worse from moving around, but you avoid movement primarily because you are so tired. The characteristic state of Gelsemium is lethargy and fatigue. By contrast, those sufferers who need Bryonia will be tired but also restless. Bryonia discomfort is worse from motion, but at the same time you feel the urge to move about restlessly in the bed. No position seems comfortable. Bryonia patients are thirsty, Gelsemium are not. In fact, those who need Bryonia are generally warmer and drier, with a desire for air and cool temperatures to calm the heat. Gelsemium patients are chilly and sensitive to cold; cold shivers go down their spine. At the same time those who need Gelsemium are clammy with the fever, and feelings of heat and cold may alternate. Bryonia patients have more coughing and chest symptoms, with a painful cough that aggravates the sore throat. The Bryonia cough will also cause chest pains, with the inevitable reaction of pressing the palm to the chest to minimize the movement caused by coughing.

Gelsemium patients do not have the energy to be emotional. Bryonia patients are irritable, worried, and fretful. They want to be left alone. Gelsemium cases are too exhausted to complain.

Contrasting Gelsemium and Bryonia

Gelsemium Bryonia

Chilly, with chills down spine Warm, with desire for cool air

Thirstless Thirsty

Dull, sleepy, heavy Dull, but irritable, worried

Worse from movement All symptoms worse from

movement, but restless

Headache at back of head Headache in forehead, better

from pressure, worse

with motion

~ ~ ~ ~

For More Information

National Vaccine Information Center …… www.nvic.org

Australian Vacation Network –

Empowering People to Make Informed Choices …… www.avn.org.au

Think Twice……………………………… www.thinktwice.com

Flu prevention with nasal cleansing…

Virginia — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:56:45 +0000

Prevent Colds and Flu with a Neti Pot

If we think about it, it’s obvious that germs often enter our body via our nasal passages, lodging in either our sinus or lungs. Nasal cleansing for our nose is like hand-washing for our mouth, our two entry points for germs. The healthy practice of rinsing our nasal passages with a neti pot’s saline solution removes impurities before they expand into something nasty, requiring antibiotics or steroidal nasal sprays, which both carry adverse effects with long-term use. Some 5-year olds find this practice fun!

Once you realize its large health impact, it’s worth trying something new when it is so simple. Using a neti pot to rinse out your nasal passage is as refreshing as brushing your teeth, equally as easy and beneficial.

When you tilt your head to the correct angle over the sink, the water in this little pot simply runs in through one nostril and out the other without running down your throat or into your ears, as some people seem to fear. Once tried, many adopt it as a habit to compliment their teeth brushing. While our initial reaction may be ‘yuk’ because it’s a fairly new idea in our western world, you’ll agree it’s easy if you try it. Neti pot use is especially encouraged for those with allergies or chronic sinus infections.

Our body fluids contain 0.9% salt, so using a slightly salty, lukewarm and pure water solution for nasal cleansing provides a comfortable and effective rinse. Cold water and fresh water will irritate the mucous membranes of our nose. The salt used should be a pure, fine grain salt but not iodized table salt or salt substitutes. Most neti pots come with a small measuring spoon for addition of salt that equals to ½ teaspoon. Folk traditions say that fishermen all over the world have rinsed their nasal passage with salt water for generations. In some African tribes, nasal cleansing is referred to as a “purifier of thoughts”, as in clearing the head. For understanding the differences in qualities and purity levels of sea salts, you may enjoy reading the article on ‘Salt Choices’.

Cleansing Baths

Virginia — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:04:04 +0000

Ancient Healing Power of the Bath

A bath is one of the easiest ways of taking a few moments for yourself after a hectic day, even if only for 15 minutes. Not only is it an enjoyable way to cleanse while reducing tension, it can be fine-tuned to be a detoxification soak or provide specific health enhancements, according to your selection of bath additions.

Aiding Lymphatic Drainage and Fighting Infection

For influencing the lymphatic system, baking soda and Epsom are used in fairly high quantities. Generally, one pound of each is recommended for addressing a particular condition and this can gradually be increased to as much as three pounds each! For most of us, however, using 1 to 1 ½ cups of Epsom salt with ½ cup baking soda, provides the effect we are after without causing skin irritation.

Epsom salt is said to be a “natural anti-inflammatory”. This long-time remedy is useful for everything from aching limbs and back pain to healing cuts, muscle strain, over-activity, colds and congestion, or soreness from childbirth. The magnesium sulfate of Epsom salt acts as a muscle relaxant, induces perspiration and is available for uptake by skin absorption. Magnesium has many important roles in our metabolism. Because Epsom salt draws out and induces prespiration, it is important to rehydrate your body by drinking water after an Epsom soak.

For healing purposes, including infections or skin sores, Epsom salt can be combined with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide (but, never combine baking soda with peroxide at the same time). For infections, a higher quantity of peroxide could be added, up to one 16-oz bottle, which can be purchased at a pharmacy.

Tip: Have a glass of water nearby to sip for replacing lost fluids. A cool towel around your neck adds comfort and is a “must” for anyone having a heart condition, in a weakened state, over age 55, as well as moderating temperature and soaking for a shorter duration. Some prefer to shower the salt off when finished. This bath is not advised for pregnancy unless moderated and approved by your doctor.

Epsom soaks are excellent to draw out lactic acid waste that causes tender muscles after extensive exercise or deeper massage treatments.

Caution: Pregnant women would not take overly warm baths or more than ½ cup Epsom until completion of the third month, or as advised by their doctor. Always use a bathmat for safety.

Apple Cider Vinegar Bath: 1 cup or 1 ½ cups of natural apple cider vinegar from a health food store, not the grocery store, provides a bath to balance your pH level. This is also anti-fungal, very purifying and healing for skin. There is no residual smell of vinegar after your bath. It also makes an excellent rinse for hair or you can soak under the water for hair and ear cleansing as well. One of my favourite baths! Also excellent for anyone with toenail fungus, including nightly foot baths.

Chamomile Bath: steep a number of chamomile tea bags and add to the tub for skin irritations, if the dried herb is not available. Or, 4 – 6 drops of the essential oil may also be added just before tub entry.

Colds and Flu mix: 4 drops Eucalyptus, 2 -3 drops of Thyme and 5 to 6 slices of fresh ginger root . Soak with the essential oils on their own, or

Steep and mix into 1 cup of Epsom Salt. If using essential oils, add to the water as you are ready to get into the tub as they evaporate from the hot water. Benefit is largely from inhalation with essential oils.

Milk bath Salt soak: 1 cup Epsom salt, 3 oz. Powdered milk, 3 oz. Baking soda, 2 oz .fine sea salt, 2 oz., 1 ½ tsp. Glycerin, one-half tsp essential oil.

Herbal baths: place dried herbs in cheesecloth and steep in a bowl of boiled water while preparing your bath, then pour into the tub. Or steep, covered in a bowl, and use a sieve to pour into the tub when ready. Many health food stores sell dried herbs.

Stress relief: Mix equal parts of dried herbs Kava Kava, Lemon Balm & Chamomile for a total of ½ to ¾ cup of herb mixture.

Insomnia Milk Bath: 4 drops lavender or lavadin oil, 3 drops of one of Sweet marjoram, Melissa (lemon balm), Juniper Berry or Orange Essential oil, and 1 cup of powdered milk. Pour oils into a small bowl and mis when ready to get into tub. Stir in one cup powdered milk. Add to bath, with 1- 2 teaspoons of almond oil, if desired for dry skin. (almond oil will stay on the skin as slightly oily.)

Sinus Headache Bath: 1 cup Epsom salt, 1/2 cup peppermint or spearment leaves or 3 drops lavendar oil and 1 drop spearmint, which is milder than peppermint)

Water has been a valuable therapeutic aid as far back as recorded history. Ancient Vedic literature in India has many references to the use of water in treatment of disease. Modern history saw therapeutic use of water with the famous Roman Baths, Father Sebastian Kneipp, and Vincent Priessnitz, to name a few.