Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Astragalus

Tonic herbs have been used for centuries to help people cope with the stress and strain of living. This stress, both physical and mental, can weaken our immune system response. To determine your immune function, ask yourself the following questions; if you answer “yes” to any of them, your immune system would probably benefit from the support of a tonic herb:
· Do you catch cold easily?
· Do you get more than two colds a year?
· Are you suffering chronic infection?
· Do you get frequent cold sores or have genital herpes?
· Are your lymph glands sore and swollen at times?
· Do you have now or have you ever had cancer?
· Are you tired most of the time?
Recurrent or chronic infections - even very mild colds - occur only when the immune system is weakened. Under such circumstances, there is a repetitive cycle that makes it difficult to overcome the tendency towards infection; a weakened immune system leads to infection, infection causes damage to the immune system, which further weakens resistance. Enhancing the immune system by taking tonic herbs like Astragalus http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/ and/or Ginseng http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40296/Floradix-Siberian-Ginseng-Elixir-250ml/will often provide the answer to breaking the cycle.
I’ll look at Astragalus, a herb which is rapidly gaining fame in the West as an immune stimulant. To classify it as an immune herb, however, is to overlook its broader use as a tonic. It strengthens the body systems (especially the lungs), improves the digestion and builds up the blood. Also, it increases endurance and body weight in animals.
In the Chinese world-view, Astragalus acts like the protective shield around the body, not unlike the shield around the starship Enterprise on the popular TV series, Star Trek. When overall Qi is weakened, or energy becomes depleted, this protective Qi is weakened, and we become more susceptible to colds and sweat more easily. A deficiency of protective Qi (or immune system weakness) is what makes AIDS patients so susceptible to opportunistic infections; Astragalus has a demonstrated effect in strengthening AIDS patients. Astragalus is a bit like Scotty in the Enterprise engine room, working feverishly to restore overall power, and then circulating it to the shield before the Klingons can destroy the ship.
Astragalus gained fame in scientific circles in the 1980s as a possible immune-stimulating and anti-cancer herb. In one trial with 19 cancer patients, it restored the function of the T-cells in 90% of the patients (T-cells are the main immune cells that attack tumours). In another trial, Astragalus, along with other tonic herbs, increased the survival time of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Unfortunately, funding for this promising research in the US was closed because any eventual product could not be patented, and a drugs company would not be able to recoup its investment.
Astragalus can be combined with Ginseng if there is a lot of fatigue along with poor immune system functioning. Astragalus is not used if you have a strong infection; otherwise it has no known toxicity. The Chinese also use this herb along with others to combat allergies like rhinitis and asthma.
Many people use Echinacea to strengthen their immune response, whereas Astragalus would be a much better choice. Echinacea should be left for the inset of a cold, where it is very effective and able to stop a cold in its tracks.

Asthma Again!

This week being Allergy week, for good reason, with the bulk of Hay fever sufferers now getting symptoms, I thought it would be appropriate to look at Asthma.
Asthma is an allergic disorder characterized by spasm of the bronchi ( the airway tubes ), swelling of the mucous lining of the lungs, and excessive production of a thick, viscous mucous. The major concern with asthma is that it can lead to respiratory failure – the inability to breathe.
The Asthma society of Ireland reckons that 470.000 people in Ireland suffer with Asthma at some time in their lives. To mark world Asthma day, the Asthma society of Ireland have launched a new booklet called “Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis” which can be downloaded from their website.
The rates of Asthma and allergic Rhinitis (hay fever) are rising rapidly, despite all the advances in medicine. The reason? No one knows for sure, but a number of factors seem to play a big factor in the rise of allergies. Increased stress, increased sugar consumption, poor nutritional diets, increased environmental chemicals, food additives and environments that are too clean (sterile).
Asthma is usually divided into two major categories; Extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic or Atopic Asthma is considered an allergic condition. Intrinsic Asthma is not associated with allergy but with a reaction to such factors such as toxic chemicals, cold air, exercise, infection and emotional upset. But both types end up with the same respiratory symptoms – breathlessness and chest tightness.
What we eat can affect Asthma. Dairy products have a tendency to produce excess mucus in the lungs, as well as, in certain individuals, an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is wise for all asthma sufferers to avoid milk and other dairy products. Sugar is very defermental to your immune systems. So avoid fizzy drinks, white bread, biscuits and cakes. Population studies have shown that children who eat fish more than once a week have one-third the risk of getting asthma as children who not eat fish regularly. Taking fish oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/30244/Eskimo-3-Fish-Oil-Lemon-Flavour-210ml/ supplements should help asthmatic children ease their symptoms.
Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/ is especially important to the health of the lungs, as it is the major antioxidant present in the lining of the airway surfaces. Vitamin C intake is directly linked with occurrence of Asthma. The higher the Vitamin C levels in any population the lower the Asthma levels. Therefore it seems that eating plenty of fruit and vegetables and/or taking a vitamin C supplement will help Asthma sufferers. Take 1-2 grams of vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/ per day if you suffer either Asthma or hay fever.
Herbal remedies for the treatment of both Asthma and hay fever are really good, at getting at the root of the problem. I was just reading an article in “Positive Health” about a man with a severe allergy to cats, which grew worse as he got older. He was given Reishi Extract (Ganoderma lucidum) for 2 month, which to his surprise stopped his allergy to cats, despite exposure to a large number of cats while on holidays. I have seen in my practice and on the shop floor many cases of Asthma and hay fever getting better through the use of these mushrooms, Reishi http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/15361/Reishi-90-capsules/and Cordyceps http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/12463/Mrl-cordyceps-90tabs/, which have been used for over 2.000 years in the treatment of imbalances of the immune system.
In Japan, Reishi in clinical trials of 2.000 cases of allergy related chronic bronchitis has success rates of over 60% with 97% overall improvement – truly a magic mushroom.

Asthma

Asthma can stem from a combination of causes. There is often an allergic component that triggers asthmatic attacks. In some cases the cause is purely genetic while in others it may be an acquired reaction to exposure to an irritant. The state of the nervous tone of the body can also lead to bronchial spasms. In predisposed people, tension, anxiety, hyperactivity or exhaustion can cause so much stress that an asthma attack is triggered off.
The rate of asthma in the Western world is rising rapidly, especially among children. Reasons often given to explain this phenomenl rise include: increased stress on the immune system due to greater chemical pollution in the air, water and food; earlier weaning and earlier introduction of solid foods to infants; food additives; and genetic manipulation of plants, resulting in food components with greater allergenic tendencies. The latest findings link the chlorine in swimming pools with increased asthma.
It has been known for over 60 years that most asthmatics produce too little hydrochloric acid in their stomachs. In 1931, Bray showed that 80% of sufferers had below normal acid amounts and that asthma can be improved by supplementing acid intake: glutanic acid, betaine and pepsin, stomach bitters and other digestive enzyme supplements. Many asthmatics also have poor pancreatic function and inadequate secretion of digestive enzymes.
As a result, high protein food may not be digested completely and, when absorbed into the bloodstream, may evoke an allergic reaction such as wheezing. Aspirin and non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs can induce asthma attacks in sensitive individuals.
Following an asthma attack, drink a large amount of liquid as soon as you are able in order to encourage the coughing out of secretions. To prevent and reduce the severity of asthma attacks, make it a habit regularly throughout the day to help liquify mucus. A periodic juice fast, three days a month, helps rid the body of toxins and mucus.
A diet rich in raw fruits and vegetables and free of animal products is recommended. Milk and dairy products tend to increase mucus production. Animal products produce leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammatory reactions.
Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/ is an important nutrient, as it helps to stabilise cell walls in all types of allergic response and has an anti-histamine effect. Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/further protects the body from the effects of toxins and increases resistance to infections. Taking 1g of timed release vitamin C each day can be a great help to a sufferer of asthma.
Taking the herb Astragalus in tablet http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11347/Solgar-SFP-Astragalus-Root-Extract-60-Vegicaps/ or tincture http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/ form will assist the immune system in such a way as to lessen the allergic reaction of the body. This herb is often used to treat hay fever, allergic sinusitis and asthma, as the basis of those diseases is the same as a dysfunction of the immune system.
A very useful combination of herbal juices to treat asthma is Plantain http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40314/Salus-Plantain-Plant-Juice-200ml/, Coltsfoot http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40307/Salus-Coltsfoot-Plant-Juice-200ml/ and Thymehttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40315/Salus-Thyme-Plant-Juice-200ml/ . This combination will often help the asthma sufferer by reducing the congestion of mucus in the lung as well as strengthening the lung tissue in order to ease the symptoms of breathlessness and wheezing, Prevention of chest infections in asthmatics is very important. To prevent infections, use Echinacea tincture http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43317/Echinacea-Tincture-215ml/ at the first sign of a cold or sore throat: taking 5-10ml every couple of hours will often help to clear a cold in 12-24 hours.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Hardening of the Arteries

Cholesterol is very important to the body and its loss is prevented by its recycling within the digestive tract. Cholesterol is passed into the gut by our liver and reabsorbed by our gut wall in order to be used again. A high intake of fibre, especially of water-soluble mucilaginous fibre from oat bran (not wheat bran), legumes, carrots and apples is extremely important in lowering cholesterol levels. Mucilaginous fibre binds bile and cholesterol in the intestines and promotes its excretion. Dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, parsley and broccoli are particularly good. In addition to supplying small amounts of both essential fatty acids, Omega 3 and Omega 6, they are good sources of vitamins C and E. Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11207/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-60-Tablets/ is essential for maintaining arterial walls, and also helps to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Vitamin E http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/13179/Quest-Vitamin-E-400iu---30-Capsules/ prevents vein damage and is very helpful in preventing damage to the arterial walls. It has been found to halve the recurrence of heart attacks and strokes in patients with a previous cardiovascular accident. In one recent study, vitamin E (400 iu) and aspirin were shown to have a very high level of success in preventing heart attacks and strokes. Use of garlic, onions and ginger are very useful to thin the blood and should be used widely in our diet.
Using nutritional supplements cannot replace a healthy diet and exercise, but they can certainly quicken the reversal process and help to prevent the effects of ageing on the blood vessels.
Bromelain http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11346/Solgar-Bromelain-500mg---30-Tablets/ is a digestive enzyme which helps break down plaque deposits in the arteries.
The antioxidant vitamins, A, C and E, and the mineral, silenium, are important in preventing damage to the arteries by free radicals.
Vitamin C helps prevent atherosclerosis by directly promoting the breakdown of triglycerides and maintaining the integrity of the blood vessel walls. Vitamin C also helps lower cholesterol in those with higher than optimal levels.
Carnitine http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11380/Solgar-Maxi-L-Carnitine-500mg---30-Tablets/ is therapeutically effective in the treatment of coronary heart disease because normal cardiac function is dependent on concentrations of carnitine in the heart muscle. Carnitine lowers triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) while raising HDL (good cholesterol) and also helps increase muscle strength and stamina. L-carnitine transports fatty acids into cells so that they can be burned as fuel. In fact, some types of metabolic obesity are caused by a carnitine deficiency.
Lecithin http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18008/Lecithin-Granules-250g/, particularly from soya bean sources, lowers both triglyceride and cholesterol levels by acting on these fats in order that they can be excreted by the body.
Herbal remedies are excellent in preventing both the build up of plaque and lowering high blood cholesterol levels. Artichoke http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40318/Salus-Artichoke-Plant-Juice-200ml/ is a superb herb to aid the liver in its work of breaking down cholesterol into bile so that it can be excreted by the body. Garlic is well-known for its blood-thinning qualities and it can also lower cholesterol levels.
Hawthorn berries or flowers are said to be a friend of the ageing heart since they can help the heart work better due to their ability to lower the heart muscle’s need for oxygen. It is also known for its ability to widen the blood vessel and thus cease clogging of the arteries.
Cayenne pepper lowers cholesterol and inhibits platelet aggregations by dilating arteries. Many angina sufferers report a remarkable improvement in the chest pain and circulation with regular doses of cayenne capsules. Cinnamon and ginger also have the ability to ease angina pains. But don’t take cayenne if you have a peptic ulcer.
To summarise the use of supplements in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis:
Broad spectrum multivitamins and minerals;
vitamin C - 2g each day http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/;
vitamin E - 200-400 iu per dayhttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/20854/Quest-Vitamin-E-400iu---60-Capsules/ ;
fibre - oat bran or psyllium husks http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11291/Solgar-Psyllium-Husks-Fibre-500mg---200-Vegetable-Capsules/;
flaxseed oil - 1-2 tablespoons each day http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/;
If significant atherosclerosis is already present, take:
L-Carnitine - 900 mg per dayhttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11380/Solgar-Maxi-L-Carnitine-500mg---30-Tablets/ ;
Bromelain http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11346/Solgar-Bromelain-500mg---30-Tablets/ - 500 mg 2-3 times per day between meals.

Anxiety

Everybody suffers with anxiety sometimes, but for many it can be a constant feeling. Anxiety can be defined as ‘‘an unpleasant emotional state ranging from mild unease to intense fear.’’ Anxiety differs from fear in that, while fear is a rational response to a real danger, anxiety usually lacks a clear or realistic cause. Though some anxiety is normal and even healthy, higher levels of anxiety are not only uncomfortable but can lead to significant problems.
Anxiety is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms. The most common symptoms relate to the chest, such as heart palpitations (awareness of a more forceful or faster heart beat), throbbing or stabbing pains, a feeling of tightness and inability to take in enough air and a tendency to sigh or hyperventilate. Tension in the muscles of the back and neck often leads to headaches, back pains and muscle spasms. Other symptoms can include excessive sweating, dryness of the mouth, dizziness, digestive disturbances and the constant need to urinate or defecate.
Psychiatrists divide anxiety into three main types: general anxiety, phobias and panic attacks. Unlike phobias and panic attacks, with general anxiety it is not always clear to the anxious persons exactly what it is they feel so anxious about. They often have a constant feeling that something bad is going to happen. They may fear that they have a chronic or dangerous illness- a belief that is reinforced by the symptoms of anxiety, like chest pains. Inability to relax may lead to difficulty in getting to sleep and constant waking through the night.
In trying to overcome anxiety it is necessary to understand what is happening biochemically to the person.
It has been found that people with constant anxiety and panic attacks have higher than normal blood levels of lactic acid in their blood. Lactic acid is produced when muscles work too fast for the body to convert glucose into carbon dioxide and water. Instead the muscles produce lactic acid.
If lactic acid is injected into people with anxiety they will get severe panic attacks. In normal people nothing happens. So it appears that individuals with anxiety may be sensitive to lactic acid. Reducing the levels of lactic acid is critical in the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. There are at least six nutritional factors that may be responsible for elevated levels of lactic acid: Alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and deficiency of the B-vitamins, deficiency of calcium or magnesium and finally food allergies.
By avoiding alcohol, caffeine, sugar and food allergens, people with anxiety can go a long way towards relieving their symptoms. Simply eliminating coffee can result in a complete relief from symptoms. Taking a good B-complexhttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/38829/Lifeplan-Vitamin-B-Complex-500mg-Mega-Potency-30-Tablets/ nutritional supplement along with calcium magnesium citrate http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11377/Solgar-Calcium-Magnesium-Citrate-50-Tablets/ will often give excellent results in relieving anxiety levels.
It has been found that taking Flaxseed oil ,http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/ 2 – 6 tablespoons a day, will aid people who suffer from panic attacks and agoraphobia- especially if they suffer from dry skin, dandruff, brittle fingernails that grow slowly or nerve disorders all signs of omega 3 essential oil deficiencies.
There are many wonderful herbs for treating anxiety, like Valerian, passionflower and lemon balm. Valerian http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44478/Valerian-Tincture-215ml/ is especially useful for Insomnia.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Antibiotic Resistance Part Two

Antibiotics where initially developed in the 1940’s and their discovery was hailed as one of the bigger breakthroughs in medical history. It must be remembered that millions died commonly of simple infections before their discovery. But today the real value of antibiotics is in sharp decline due to the massive worldwide abuse of antibiotics.
Even during the early stages of antibiotic development it was clear that some bacteria could survive and multiply in the presence of antibiotics. These bacteria had acquired resistance to the effects of those antibiotics.
In the early 1980’s a number of hospitals in Melbourne were plagued with infections which were resistant to almost all known antibiotics. The bacteria were not just resistance to antibiotics, but also to antiseptics, making it virtually impossible to kill. Only one antibiotic worked against it, vancomycin. Today even this antibiotic has not killed this bacterium in certain hospitals. So, it is now clear that we are facing a potentially disastrous situation.
Why did this happen? We have used antibiotics in an irresponsible way. Overuse and using antibiotics in animal foods are major errors that need to be changed, antibiotics don’t kill viruses, but how often do we use them for viral infections?
A common sense approach is needed in treating common infections. Let the body fight the infection with the help of common herbs and rest, which allows the body to build up one’s natural resistance.
Up to 50% of all infections in children are respiratory by nature. Upper respiratory tract infections such as colds, flu and snotty noses are viral so antibiotics have no part to play in their treatment. Even if the discharge from the nose is yellowish or greenish, swabs consistently show no bacterial growth. If in doubt, have a nasal swab done by your family doctor as this will show whether the infection is bacterial or viral.
Anti-viral treatments include Echinacea root tincture http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43317/Echinacea-Tincture-215ml/, Plantain juicehttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40314/Salus-Plantain-Plant-Juice-200ml/ and Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11240/Solgar-Ester-C-Plus-Tabs-1000mg-Vitamin-C-90-Tablets/and Zinc .http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44222/Sona-Zinc-60-Tablets/ Echinacea is best taken as a liquid extract or tincture. In liquid form, it is more easily absorbed into the bloodstream and it works better I find than either tablets or capsules. Echinacea is generally recognized as being one of the safest remedies. It is effective against a wide range of microbes, including many viruses, bacteria and fungi. It can be used to treat most types of infection. Echinacea can also be used externally to treat wounds that are infected.
If you or your children are getting lots of infections, then it may be necessary to build up the immune system. Herbs that will do this include Astragalus http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/which can be given to children on a long term basis if they are prone to infections.
Vitamin C is also anti-viral as well as anti-bacterial; it also enhances aspects of a person’s immunity. You can take up to ten grams of vitamin C (adult dose) during an infection. To enhance immunity take 2-3 grams of a timed released vitamin C each day. Take 1 gram each eight hours. Since the Vitamin C is not stored in the body, there is no concern about overloading the body with too much.
If you have to take an antibiotic then be sure to take acidophilus supplement during and after course of treatment to get the ‘‘good’’ bacteria in balance so the immune system gets back in shape.

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is on the rise. Many factors are involved in antibiotic resistance. Evolution plays a role, any organism, bacteria included, naturally includes variants with unusual traits – in this case, the ability to withstand an antibiotic attack on a microbe. When a person takes an antibiotic, the drug kills the defenseless bacteria, leaving behind those that resist it. These bacteria then multiply, increasing their numbers a million fold in a day, becoming the predominant micro-organism.
Though bacterial antibiotic resistance is a natural phenomenon, social factors also contribute to the problem. These factors include increased infection, coupled with inappropriate antibiotic use.
More people are contracting infections for example; sinusitis among adults is on the rise, as are ear infections in children.
Between 1985 and 1992 it was found that nearly double the amount of prescriptions were prescribed for both these conditions in the USA. This along with wide spread use of antibiotics in livestock leads to increased antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotics were initially developed in the 1940’s and their discovery was hailed as one of the biggest breakthrough in medical history. It must be remembered that millions died commonly of simple infections before their discovery.
So what can we do? Increasing our immunity to infection must be the first step. Using herbs like Astragalushttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/ , Reishi mushrooms http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/15361/Reishi-90-capsules/ or Cordyceps http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/search.aspwill help our body’s resist infection. Along with lifestyle changes like eating a whole food diet reducing sugar and eating plenty of fruit and vegetables.
A common sense approach is needed in treating common infections. Let the body fight the infection with the help of common herbs and rest, which allows the body to build up its natural resistance.
Up to 50% of all infections in children are respiratory by nature. Upper respiratory tract infections such as colds, flu and snotty noses are viral so antibiotics have no part to play in their treatment. Even if the discharge from the nose is; yellowish or greenish, swabs consistently show no bacterial growth. Anti – viral treatments include Echinacea root tincture http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43317/Echinacea-Tincture-215ml/, Plantain juice http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40314/Salus-Plantain-Plant-Juice-200ml/ and vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11207/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-60-Tablets/ and Zinc http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/38846/Lifeplan-Zinc-Gluconate-10mg-100-Tablets/. Echinacea is best taken as a liquid extract or tincture. In liquid form, it is more easy absorbed into the blood stream and it works better I find than either tablets or capsules. Echinacea is generally recognized as being one of the safest remedies. It is effective against a wide range of microbes including many viruses, bacteria and fungi. It can be used to treat most types of infection.
Plantain juice works like an antibiotic. It can be used to treat sinusitis, chest infections, ear infections and urinary tract infections. It also works to decongest nasal passages by helping the mucus membranes work better and therefore very useful in blocked sinuses. Plantain contains a chemical called Aucubin which acts like an antibiotic without any bacterial resistance occurring due to naturally occurring variation. Plantain has been used through out the world from China to Europe for the last 3,000 years at least. It is a very safe and gentle herb to use and can be taken by very young children for most infections, without side – effects. Combining Echinacea root tincture and Plantain juice is very effective treatment for most common infections.

Anti-Nutrients

Eating well is not just about what you eat – what you do not eat is equally important. Since the 1950’s over 3,500 man made chemicals have found their way into manufactured food, along with pesticides, antibiotics and hormone residues from stable foods such as grains and meat. Many of these chemicals are ‘anti – nutrients' in that they stop nutrients being absorbed and used, or promote their excretion.
Gone are the days when healthy eating meant simply getting the right balance of nutrients from your food, now an equally important part of the equation is avoiding harmful chemicals and protecting yourself against those that cannot be avoided. Many of today’s diseases are caused just as much by an excess of anti – nutrients as by a deficiency of nutrients. Take cancer, for example. Three – quarters of all cancers are associated with an excess of anti – nutrients, be it cancer causing chemicals or excessive free radicals as a result of smoking. Many health problems, from arthritis to chronic fatigue, can follow from an overload of anti – nutrients exceeding the body’s capacity to detoxify itself.
Even refined food that is free from artificial additives is not neutral. Any food you eat that requires more nutrients for the body to make use of it than the food itself provides is effectively an anti – nutrient. Living on these foods, the diet of many of our teens, gradually robs the body of vital nutrients. In fact, two – thirds of the calories in the average person’s diet in the western world come from these foods. That leaves one – third of the diet to provide not only enough nutrients for general health, but also enough to make up the deficit resulting from nutrient – deficient food and to combat other anti – nutrients from car pollution to pesticides.
What we do to food in the kitchen can alter the balance between nutrients and anti – nutrients. Frying food in oil produces what are known as free – radicals, highly reactive chemicals that destroy essential fats in food and can damage cells. The damaging effects of frying depend on the oil type, the temperature of the oil and the length of time the food is fried. Ironically, it is the good polyunsaturated oils that oxidize most rapidly. Frying with butter or coconut (saturated fat) or olive oil (mono – unsaturated fat) is safer.
One of the worst chemicals produced by cooking at high temperatures is Acrylamide, which is a known cancer – producing chemical. While the safe limit set for Acrylamide in food is ten parts per billion, chips and crisps have been found to contain more than 100 times this amount.
Here are some helpful tips to help decrease your environmental load, found in Patrick Holfords book Optimum nutrition.
· Invest in a good – quality, plumbed in water filter and replace the cartridge every six months.
· Buy organic. When not possible, wash or peel fruit and vegetables.
· Never deep – fry foods.
· Don’t use cling film unless it states ‘ non pvc’
· Rearrange your daily schedule to minimize time spent in traffic.
· Drink alcohol very infrequently, and avoid smoky places.
· Avoid medical drugs unless they are the only viable option for treating a health problem. If you get frequent infections or aches, investigate the underlying cause rather than relying on painkillers or antibiotics.

Angina

Angina Pectoris meaning chest pain, is a common problem of old age today. This painful and distressing condition is brought about when the blood supply to the heart itself is deficient and leads to a lack of oxygen in the heart tissue - a little like the leg cramps you can get when playing a game of football, except the muscle affected is the heart muscle one of the most important muscles in the body. Often an angina attack can cause a fear of death itself. Some angina attacks can be felt only as an uncomfortable tightness and squeezing in the chest with some difficulty breathing and little else. When there is pain it often radiates down the left arm.
An angina attack is hard to distinguish from a heart attack. For this reason, even mild chest pain should be evaluated by a medical professional and treated as an emergency. Usually an angina attack lasts only a few minutes and rest or nitro-glycerine should help quickly. If the attack lasts longer than 5 minutes then it should be treated as a heart attack. Unfortunately denial of a heart attack keeps people from seeking help while they are still able. Angina attacks are precursors for heart attacks, so it is extremely important to participate actively in taking preventative measures against them.
The illness actually begins long before the first angina. Usually as a direct result of longstanding arteriosclerosis the coronary arteries become clogged through the build up of fatty deposits, and harden. Once the blood's passageways to the heart are narrowed, any additional demands on the heart such as excitement, exercise, a very cold day or a full stomach can instigate an attack. During this acute time of stress, the coronary arteries become temporarily blocked and the resulting lack of oxygen to the heart causes a flash of pain and tightness in the chest. When this continues for only a few seconds, no lasting damage to the heart occurs. If the blockage is longer, then the tissues of the heart may be damaged.
Faulty eating habits, high blood pressure and cholesterol are often causes of angina combined with hereditary predisposition and a type A personality, which is particularly prone to reacting to constant stress.
Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in animal proteins is an important element in preventing this illness. Eat cold pressed oils like flaxseed oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/ , also fish oilshttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/30244/Eskimo-3-Fish-Oil-Lemon-Flavour-210ml/ have been shown to decrease the instance of angina attacks. Garlic will lower cholesterol and blood pressure as well as helping to keep arteries open.
Certain herbal remedies are very helpful in treating the underlying causes of angina attacks. Hawthorn http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40316/Salus-Hawthorn-Plant-Juice-200ml/ is the best known herbal remedy for heart problems. A very gentle and mild remedy, hawthorn will help reduce the fatty deposits in the arteries over time as well as reducing the work load of the heart through its effect on the cardiac cells in the heart muscle. To be of any benefit hawthorn has to be taken over 3-6 months, the longer the better, and since it does not have any negative side-effects it can be used for long-term treatment. If stress is a factor which it often is in heart disease then taking valerian tincture http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44478/Valerian-Tincture-215ml/ or tablets will help ease stress without making one sleepy. Lime blossom tea is good also in easing stress and will also help keep the arteries clear of fatty deposits.

Anal Itching

An embarrassing problem, anal itching, is nevertheless very common. Anal itching is usually related to other illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract, or local skin conditions. Because of the moist environment of the anal area and repeated contact with waste, skin irritations, abrasions are slow to heal and require persistent care. Red skin around the anus indicates food sensitivity.
Itching is often the result of a local eczema, which can arise through sensitivity to detergents and soaps. It can also be food related; spicy food, dairy products, citrus fruits, soy, corn, tomato and eggs are irritants. Rectal itching can be caused by associated problems in the anal area, including haemorrhoids and anal fissures. Worms should be considered as a possible cause; pinworms are especially common in children. A Candida fungal infection of the bowels is another common cause. Poor hygiene will intensify the problem, as will synthetic underwear (which promotes sweating and dampness); since many sweat glands are located in the anus. Insufficient drying after bathing also promotes dampness, while excessive washing with soap will dry the skin, causing itching. Constipation aggravates the condition.
Avoid spicy food and any other food which you suspect of causing the irritation. The smallest amount of black pepper, cayenne or cinnamon added to food can produce extreme itching in the anus of sensitive persons. Eat raw, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains for fiber to combat constipation and anal fissures, which can cause itching. Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt, kefer and other lactic acid fermented food to fight a possible Candida yeast infection. Unrefined cold – pressed flax seed oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/ will soften the stools and lubricate the walls of the rectum, reducing irritation.
Candida yeast infections causing anal itching can be helped by taking Acidophilus supplements http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11788/Solgar-Advanced-40-Plus-Acidophilus-60-Vegicaps/. In addition, an acidophilus capsule can be opened and applied directly to the skin. Vitamins A http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11207/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-60-Tablets/and B complex http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11447/Quest-Multi-B-Complex-plus-500mg-Vitamin-C-60-Tablets/ can remedy anal itching as a lack of these vitamins typically causes problems. Iron http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40328/Floradix-Liquid-Iron-Formula-500ml/deficiency Anemia is another cause of itching.
Herbal remedies provide effective relief of itching and irritation.
If the itching is due to haemorrhoids, apply cool compresses of witch – hazel to shrink blood vessels and chamomile flowers to speed healing.
Salves of Calendula http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11949/A.-Vogel-Calendula-Complex-50ml/ or Aloe Vera http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/36164/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Gel-99.9%25-200ml/ are great to relieve itching. Apply as often as needed.
Witch hazel http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18148/Potters-Witch-Hazel-Distilled-75ml/ is one of the best remedies for anal itching apply as often as needed, it is available in a spray bottle for better results.
Tissue salts are also good;
Kali Sulph http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18109/New-Era-No-7-Kali-Sulph-450-Tablets/ is particularly helpful tissue salt for the skin, when the eczema discharges wet or sticky secretions.
Calc Fluor http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18104/New-Era-No-1-Calc-Fluor-450Tab/ is recommended if there are fissures that itch.

Keep the anal area meticulously clean by washing after each bowel movement with a cotton cloth soaked in warm water. Do not use toilet paper.

Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are inflamed tears or ulcers that arise between the mucous membranes and the outermost skin of the anus. The sharp, sticking, cramping pain that occurs after a bowel movement, lasting up to an hour later, is typical because the fissure rests on the anal sphincter muscle, which spasms upon contact with passing stool. Stains of fresh blood on the toilet paper are common.
Anal fissures are caused by the combination of straining due to constipation and irritated dry skin from excessive rubbing, rough toilet paper, or large, hard stools. Because of the humidity and constant exposure to fecal waste, this area is slow to heal and requires some diligence in treatment. Since a bowel movement is painful, constipation is not only a common cause, but also a result of anal fissures, for the most part; children and older adults are affected.
Constipation needs to be dealt with immediately, before fissures can heal. Adding fiber and fluids to the diet will bring relief by softening the faeces. Eat plenty of fruits such as apples, pears, pineapples, prunes, figs and drink juices such as beetroot, carrot or celery juice, bran, i.e. wheat bran should be avoided as it is too rough on the tissues oat bran is good however, since it’s a soluble form of fiber. Psyllium husks http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11291/Solgar-Psyllium-Husks-Fibre-500mg---200-Vegetable-Capsules/with plenty of water will give the desired results. Flax seed oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/, two to three tablespoons a day aids in softening the stools as does milled linseed/ flaxseed ,http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/12110/A.-Vogel-Linoforce-Granules-300g/ two to three tablespoons a day in your porridge each morning – flaxseed aids by lubricating the mucous walls of the colon. Refined and processed foods and dairy products can be constipating, as is high levels of refined sugar in the diet, so avoid these.
Red meat also can have a constipating effect if eaten in excess – try to eat small quantities of red meat or avoid completely. Eating plenty of vegetables is always important; make sure they are organic and fresh as possible.
Healing can be supported by using manuka honey with UMF of at least 20 http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44233/Manuka-Health-Manuka-Honey-MGO400---500g/. Apply to the mucous membranes at least twice a day. This honey will aid healing as well as stopping any infections occurring around the fissure, which may slow down healing.
Keep anal area meticulously clears by washing gently with a cotton cloth soaked in a warm Chamomile http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/41792/Atlantic-Aromatics-Camomile-%2816%25%29-in-Jojoba-5ml/and witch hazel infusion.http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18148/Potters-Witch-Hazel-Distilled-75ml/ Witch hazel shrinks blood vessels and chamomile speeds healing. You can use chamomile tea bags to make the infusion or the flowers to make the infusion.
Another herb with an excellent reputation in speeding up healing of fissures and ulcers is the Chinese herb, Astragalushttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/ , a herb with a long history of use supporting the immune system and aiding healing of wounds. Astragalus can be taken in capsule or tincture form everyday to build up ones immune system while aiding healing of the fissure.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Anaemia

Anaemia refers to a condition in which the blood is deficient in red blood cells or the haemoglobin (Iron containing) portion of red blood cells.
The bodies’ red blood cells, with the help of haemoglobin, perform the critical role of transporting oxygen, which provides energy to every cell in the body. If they are too few red blood cells or haemoglobin is deficient, not enough oxygen reaches the cells, causing fatigue. Although there are many causes of fatigue, Anaemia might be considered if the tiredness is constant and physical activity is exhausting. Heart palpitations and breathlessness are experienced after even a little exercise. Since the brain is particularly sensitive to oxygen deprivation, Anaemia is often the cause of a difficulty in concentrating, irritability, headaches, dizziness and fainting spells.
Outward signs of Anaemia are pale skin and pale mucous membranes. After some time the skin become dry and the nails brittle. A sore tongue is another sign. Anaemia leaves the body more susceptible to colds and other infections.
There are a number of different types of Anaemia. One type is related to Vitamin B12 absorption and intake. Vitamin B12 http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45845/Solgar-Methylcobalamin-%28Vitamin-B12%29-1000ug---30-Nuggets/ is crucial not only for building and development of red blood cells, but also nerve sheaths in the body. If symptoms of Anaemia are combined with additional symptoms of restlessness and tingling or numbness in the legs, then B12 Anaemia maybe the cause.
Since iron http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40328/Floradix-Liquid-Iron-Formula-500ml/is the most essential nutrient for blood building and oxygen transport, it is quickly deflected through blood loss. Any form of blood loss, as a result of an accident, operation or excessive menstrual bleeding produces an anaemic state. Anaemia is not always sudden, and can develop slowly over time, especially if bleeding is recurrent. It can be a sign of an underlying illness that causes slow internal bleeding, such as a peptic ulcer or cancer.
Although iron-deficient Anaemia is a common condition among women and the elderly, a blood test is needed, in order, for treatment to be optimum. Anaemia is typical among pregnant women, but if it is not severe, it may be considered a normal condition that need not be treated with supplements. A good diet will supply the necessary iron.
Fresh, raw leeks are an excellent food for combating iron-deficiency Anaemia. One leek contains over twice the amount of iron contained in a cup of most other green vegetables. In addition, leeks are a good source of Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/33854/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-120-Tablets/, which aids in the uptake and retention of iron in the blood. Parsley is another outstanding source of iron, as are nettles. Spinach contains a moderate amount of iron, but it remains a useful healing food for Anaemia because it contains an ideal combination of nutrients important for blood building, including iron, Vitamin C, copper, iodine and chlorophyll. All leafy green vegetables provide iron. It is best to eat them raw, as cooking, binds the iron. Other foods which contain iron are dried apricots, prunes, raisins, oats, corn, rye, apples, bananas, strawberries and grapes.
If Anaemia is due to excessive blood loss then more than iron is needed to rebuild the blood. Vitamin B12, folic acid and B6 are the most crucial B Vitamins. As supplements, they should be taken with other B Vitamins, in a B complex http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/38829/Lifeplan-Vitamin-B-Complex-500mg-Mega-Potency-30-Tablets/ , with additional Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/33854/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-120-Tablets/.The Chlorophyll in green food also helps build the blood and provide it with essential nutrients. Spirulina http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44340/Synegy-Organic-Spirulina-100g-Powder/ is an excellent source of Chlorophyll as are nettles or parsley.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disorder that manifests as a progressive deterioration of memory and mental function, a state of mind commonly referred to as dementia.
In most people, 20% of brain cells die over a lifetime. By the age of 70 most peoples brain have shrunk by 10%.With this, often comes a gradual loss of memory. However , declining mental function is not inevitable. Though this may come as a surprise to many , you can build new brain cells at any age. Research clearly shows that healthy, well educated, elderly people can show no decline in mental functions right up to death.
Not everyone over fifty with memory problems has Alzheimer’s disease. Diagnosis is difficult because the evidence lies in the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. Genetic factors play a major role, with several genes being linked to AD. However, although genes probably play a significant role in determining who is going to develop AD, like most chronic degenerative diseases, environmental factors also play a significant role. Traumatic injury to the head, chronic exposure to Aluminium and/or silicon, exposure to toxins from environmental sources, and free – radical damage have all been implicated as causative factors.
Aluminium has been found in plaques in the brains of AD sufferers. While plenty of studies have shown this increased accumulation of Aluminium, what isn’t clear is whether this is a cause on consequence of the disease. Aluminium is known to accumulate with age and, in any event, it is the best to limit exposure. This means avoiding Aluminium fats and pans, not cooking foods on Aluminium foil, not using tooth past in Aluminium tubes or Antiacids with added Aluminium. To a certain extend zinc protects against Aluminium and other metal toxity so ensuring a good zinc intake is helpful.
Perhaps more important is the brain toxin homocysteine, produced within the body from protein – if you are deficient in vitamins B6, B12 or folic acid. For the point of view of prevention the simplest way to eradicate this risk is to supplement a high potency multivitaminhttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44460/Sona-MultiPlus-Complete-Multivitamin-%26-Minerals-30-Capsules/.
There is considerable evidence that oxidative damage from free – radicals, plays a major role in the development and progression of AD. Therefore taking antioxidants will help protect the brain against toxic substances and free – radicals which can contribute to Alzheimer’s disease.
Eat a diet high in antioxidants, nutrients, lots of fruit and vegetable, also eat seeds and nuts to ensure high levels of antioxidants. A good multivitamin http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44460/Sona-MultiPlus-Complete-Multivitamin-%26-Minerals-30-Capsules/ will also help. Ensure an optimal intake of brains fats ( the brain is mostly made up of these essential fatty acids ) especially Omega 3 fats from Fish and Flax seeds or fish oils and Phospholipids by taking a teaspoon of Fish Oil each dayhttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45087/Eskimo-Brainsharp-Liquid-210ml/ .
Zinc defiency is one of the most common nutrients defiencies in the elderly and has been linked with the development of AD. Seeds and nuts are good sources of zinc esp http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11335/Solgar-Zinc-Citrate-30mg---100-Capsules/. Pumpkin seeds. Eat a handful each day.
Whether age – related memory loss nor AD are inevitable. What more the steps you need to take to prevent them are the same as those needed to maximise your memory and neutral alertness. So, whether you are 50 or 60 years old the time to act is now.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/19840/Aloe-Pura--Aloe-Vera-Gel-%26-Tea-Tree-200ml/has become very popular over the last ten years, but its history goes back over thousands of years.
It is native to Africa with references to it appearing in ancient literature of the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans. The earliest recorded mention was on Sumerian clay tablets dating back to 2,200 B.C. Galen, the father of modern medicine who lived at the time of Christ, also used it therapeutically.
There are many romantic tales about aloe Vera – the Egyptian queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra bathed in it to keep their skin beautiful. Alexander the Great even invaded an island in the Indian Ocean to capture their famed aloe suppliers to treat his wounded soldiers.
In places where it grows naturally around the world aloe Vera http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/36164/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Gel-99.9%25-200ml/has been called ‘the Burn Plant’ and ‘the Miracle Plant’. The name Aloe itself probably comes from the Arabic word ‘Alloeh’ meaning ‘shining bitter substance’. This reference is to a substance found just under the hard green rind of the plant that contains mainly aloin, which acts as a laxative.
In modern times aloe Verahttp://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/36164/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Gel-99.9%25-200ml/ has been widely investigated in an attempt to discover why it has such far-reaching benefits.
Aloe Vera http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18015/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Colax-60-tablets/has an excellent reputation for helping with stomach complaints such as ulcers, Crohn’s disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Ulcerative Colitis.
Its use in this area has been subject to much research notably by Pharmacist Bill Coats, who has devoted 35 years to researching aloe Vera. He discovered that aloin, the bitter substance in the plant can actually be detrimental in some areas, for example it has been found that the anti-inflammatory effect is actually enhanced when the aloin has been removed.
So, he and his colleagues developed a unique process that would allow the aloin to be removed but the beneficial properties of the plant retained.
Other researchers at the Queen Mary School of Medicine & Dentistry found that aloe Vera gel helped boost the healing process in cases of ulceration of the gut.
Sufferers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome also find that drinking the aloe Vera juice every day can ease many of their symptoms. Sufferers of Ulcerative Colitis also find that drinking a small amount of aloe Vera juice each day http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/17999/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Colon-Cleanse-Juice-500ml/can bring about a dramatic improvement in their symptoms. Their experience supports the findings of a trial carried out by gastroenterologist Professor David Rampton at the Royal London Hospital in January 2004. The trial involved 44 patients suffering from Ulcerative Colitis and showed improvement in one in three.
Aloe Vera gel http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/36164/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Gel-99.9%25-200ml/ is commonly used for skin complaints like eczema and urticaria. Research published in the Journal of Tropical Medicine also reported success using an aloe Vera ointment on psoriasis and it is useful in promoting healing after skin burning or surgery. It is one of the best after-sun gels, and it is very useful after radiotherapy treatment to avoid skin damage.
Aloe Vera is a very effective moisturizer for the skin http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/36164/Aloe-Pura-Aloe-Vera-Gel-99.9%25-200ml/and helps the skin rebuild itself by stimulating fibroblasts – which produce collagen and elastin fibers so the skin becomes more elastic and less wrinkled.

Allergies-Hayfever

Every spring we see many people enduring weeks of sneezing and sniffing as the hay fever season sets in.
What’s more, more and more people seem to be falling prey to hay fever. It seems that up to 12% of the population now gets hay fever here in Ireland. The hay fever season is also getting longer too.
Sniffing and sneezing are the most common symptoms, but for some the problem can be worse – itching eyes, nose and throat are often experienced, while chronic tiredness, poor appetite, nausea and headaches are also reported by hay fever sufferers.
Hay fever is an allergy, an overreaction of an immune system to a particular substance in the environment. It is not known exactly what causes the immune system to react so strongly, but the number of allergic responses is definitely on the rise, indicating environmental and lifestyle causes. There is now a theory that our over – clean lifestyle may be a cause to the increased allergy in children. Studies which follow children health and the environment that they live in, had found that children that live on farms are less likely to suffer hay fever than children from cities with little or no contact with animals.
Hay fever is arguably the most common allergy in Ireland, with up to 1 in 4, 11 – 21 year olds experiencing symptoms. Pollinating trees and flowers irritate the mucus membranes in early spring, and freshly cut grasses and weeds tend to be more of a summer problem.
Symptoms can be worse when our immune system is not working well. Eating a diet of refined carbohydrates (white bread, cakes, biscuits and sugar), saturated fats (animal fats), transfatty acids, artificial flavorings and colorants, with little or no fruit and vegetables – a common diet of to-days children will simply not supply the nutrients that our body and immune system needs to work optimally. Also today, we are exposed to a host of environmental toxins, pollutants, irritants and potential allergens that were not in existence even 20 years ago.
This combination of poor diet and continual onslaught to our immune systems from today’s environment is laying the basis for weakened immunity.
So what can be done? If you suffer from hay fever, its best to start early in the season, so that, our immune system is working well before the allergens start flying.
Begin treatment with a short, cleansing juice fast, with drinks made from chlorophyll – rich green and leafy vegetables to help purify the blood. Avoid fatty meats and processed dairy products which are mucus forming. Stop sugar if possible, eliminating sugar from the diet, including natural sugar from concentrated fruit juices goes a long way towards helping normalize the immune system.
Herbs that can normalize, or strengthen our immune systems should be taken before the hay fever season starts for best results, but if it’s already started they will give excellent results.
Two herbs which I have found very useful in treating allergies are Reishi mushrooms http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/15361/Reishi-90-capsules/and Astragalus http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/.
Astragalus has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years to treat allergies and weakened immunity. It can be taken by anyone, it has very few side – effects and can be taken over a very long time without any side – effects. It is very useful for children with allergies.
Reishi mushrooms also have a long history of use by both the Chinese and Japanese. It has a great reputation for preventing cancer and normalizing ones immune system. It is very effective in preventing allergies such as hay fever or chronic sinusitis.

Allergies

The level of allergies seems to be on the rise all the time. The levels of eczema, hay fever and asthma have risen dramatically in recent times. For example eczema now affects between 10 – 15 % of the population at some time during their lives.
Allergies are due to hyper – reactions of the body to some particular substance normally harmless to most people. The substance, which causes the allergy, is called an allergen. Some of the more common allergies to cause hay – fever or asthma are dust, pollen, animal hair and grasses. Milk, eggs, wheat and corn are frequent sources of food allergies. Metals found in costume jewellery and cosmetics are common sources of skin reactions, as well as household cleaning agents.
When an allergen comes in contact with the skin surface or a mucus membrane, such as the lining in the nose or bronchial tubes of the lungs, the immune system perceives it an enemy and triggers a series of reactions designed to fight this threat. The bodies over – reactions leading to inflammation, which tries to get rid of the allergen, but often the allergen, is very common, like dust mite dropping or pollen and the bodies immune system is put into a constant state of inflammation. Recognizing the allergic substance and eliminating it from the immediate environment is Paramount but often not practical.
Why do people get allergies? There are many reasons why a person develops an allergy. Genetic factors are high on the list, but also lifestyle can be a big factor in why a person develops an allergy. Stress, long-term illness, and poor diet can all pay a part. Allergies are becoming more common, I believe, due to the ever increasing number of chemicals in our air, water, food and clothing, which offers an extra load to our immune systems.
What can one do about allergies? A lot, I believe, can be gained by helping the immune system deal with the allergen. Optimising digestion is very important for alleviating allergies and food sensitivities. Simply removing the offending food will remove the symptom but often another substance then becomes another allergen. The only way to cure an allergy is by making the body able to digest the allergenic food (this is not true with severe allergic reactions to particular foods – anaphylactic shock type reactions). By eating lots of raw vegetables and fruits, taking digestive enzymes and chewing your food well, as well as taking a bitter before your meals can all help in improving the digestive function. Certain food combinations, such as vegetables and grain, minimize the strain on the digestive system. Incomplete digestion can reintroduce toxins into the bloodstream and cause allergic reactions.
The Omega – 3 essential fatty acids found in flax seed oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/45011/Emile-Noel-Flax-Seed-Oil-250ml/ are excellent to reduce inflammation.
Getting the immune system working well, will limit the bodies reaction to an allergen. Astragalus http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/44624/Astragalus-Tincture-215ml/ and ginseng http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/40296/Floradix-Siberian-Ginseng-Elixir-250ml/are herbs, which will arm the body against allergens. Vitamin C http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11208/Quest-Vitamin-C-1000mg-Timed-Release-30-Tablets/ is also very good at stabilizing cell walls and inhibiting the release of histamine after an allergic reaction. Now is the time for hay fever sufferers to start building up their immune system before the pollen starts to arrive. Late - onset asthma sufferers will help their immune systems deal with allergens by taking Cordyceps for a good number of months.

Alcohol

For the last 6,000 years of recorded history, human beings have drinking alcohol. Today it plays a major part in our economy, with many millions of Euro spent every week on alcoholic drinks. But with plenty of conflicting stories floating about in the media, many people are rightly mystified; is alcohol good for you, or does it harm you?
There is no doubt; the effects of long-term heavy or chronic use of alcohol on the body are serious. Alcohol affects the brain and nervous system, which control behaviour and body functions, as well as the pancreas and liver. No body system is left untouched by the effects of chronic alcohol use. Alcohol is detoxified by the liver, which involves a liver enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase. When alcohol intake exceeds this enzymatic pathway, the liver turns alcohol into Acetaldehyde, a very acidic and toxic metabolite. The end result is a sick feeling called the hangover.
There is little question that alcohol acts as an anti – nutrient. Although some forms of alcohol (such as Stout or Red Wine) do deliver a few nutrients, alcohol itself is a potent destroyer of these same nutrients.
Chronic alcohol intake leads to multiple deficiencies of nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin C, Zinc and Magnesium.
Craving for alcohol increases with poor nutrition and inadequate nutrients. Alcohol can often be used as a substitute for food in heavy or chronic alcohol drinkers. Alcohol is very high in sugar and causes reactive hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar levels) and food cravings, especially for sweets. Poor nutrition further disables the body’s ability to protect itself from the toxic effects of alcohol.
Alcohol irritates your gut, making it more permeable to undigested food particles, and increasing the chances of an allergic reaction to substances in both, the food and the alcohol. This is why many beer and wine drinkers become allergic to yeast. Wine drinkers may also become sensitive to sulphates, which are added to grapes to control Fermentation.
According to the World Health Organization, the more alcohol you drink, the higher your cancer risk especially if you also smoke.
Drinking alcohol makes you feel good at first due to the release of dopamine, which stimulates you, followed by endorphins, which make you feel high, and then gamma – amino butyric acid, which makes you relax. The sugar in the alcohol also gives your blood sugars a boost. This pleasant effect usually lasts for an hour or so. Several drinks later, however, you (or others) might notice you are feeling irritable, depressed or even hostile. People who consume high levels of alcohol have reduced intellectual performance on testing.
What of the positive effects of alcohol? One plus for alcohol in moderation is the well – established finding, that it increases HDL (Good) Cholesterol! Red Wine may also confer Additional Cardiovascular benefits by virtue of being high in proanthocyanidins the antioxidants found in grapes and berries. Alcohol itself is an oxidant. Eating grapes or drinking grape juice will give the same benefits, without the negative effects of alcohol.
It seems - that moderation is the key to drinking and maintaining good health. A glass of wine or beer, one to three times a week is unlikely to impact on your health.

Acne

Acne can occur at any age but is more common during the “teens.” Mild cases of acne are characterized by red pimples and blackheads, but do not leave lasting impression on the skin. Severe cases can cause painful abscesses, widened pores and knots of scarred tissue. Scratching spreads the infection to other areas.
Those who appear to develop acne on the cheeks and nose at a later stage of life, probably suffer from acne rosacea, an adult skin condition that looks similar to acne, but does not develop until after thirty years of age.
Acne usually occurs at the most self-conscious time for boys and girls and always produces a crop of spots-just when they don’t want them!
This annoying skin problem is caused by over-production of sebum, an oily substance which helps protect the skin. A build-up of sebum blocks and infects pores, which produces pustules and blackheads. The black colour of blackheads is a result of their exposure to air at the skins surface. People with naturally oily skin are more susceptible to acne.
The underlying cause of increased sebum production lies internally. Hormonal disturbances usually cause acne in most adolescents. The hormonal imbalance is usually coupled with blood impurities caused by poor diet, included deep-fried food, saturated fats, sweets and junk food, chronic constipation, and an overburdened, sluggish liver, unable to detoxify the blood thoroughly since the skin in another means of detoxification, wastes that remain in the blood are eliminated through the skin. Nicotine and alcohol affect the skin, as do individual susceptibilities to certain foods and allergies.
Certain fats can be the best dietary weapon against acne. Unrefined, cold-pressed flax seed oil contains the essential fatty acids which lower the body’s production of sebum, reducing the pore clogging which causes acne. A deficiency in the essential fatty acids will trigger increased production of sebum. Also flax seed oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43221/Flora-Flax-O-Mega-90-Capsules/ensures regular bowel movements, which encourage the elimination of toxins through the bowel, rather than the skin.
In some cases, acne is triggered by certain foods. Common culprits are chocolate, nuts, eggs and fatty foods. If a certain food is suspected of causing acne, it should first be eliminated from the diet for a few weeks, then reintroduced and the effect carefully observed.
One of the most successful herbs used in the treatment of both male and female acne is Vitex-Agnus-Castus http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43311/Agnus-Castus-Tincture/. Taken for three months, it will help the body to balance its hormonal swings.
Another important herb is Bogbean http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/43315/Bogbean-Tincture-215ml/ which will help the body eliminate toxins from the blood- in fact 50% of patients with severe acne have increased blood toxins.
Minerals such as zinc have been found very helpful; 45mg of zinc Picolinate each day especially adolescents since their need for zinc in high.http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/11212/Quest-Synergistic-Zinc-15mg-with-Copper-30-Tablets/
Externally use Tea-tree oil http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/41724/Atlantic-Aromatics-Tea-Tree-Oil-Organic-20ml/ to help keep the skin clear of harmful bacteria (which will make the acne worse). Dab one drop of Tea-tree oil on the head of the pimple twice daily. Using rose hip essential oil will help eliminate scarring if used early enough.
Do not squeeze pimples or whiteheads. This spreads infection and cause scarring.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Sunstroke and Heat Exhaustion

So, this is my first blog as The Natural Way. I thought it best off to start something which is topical... seeing as many of us are heading away to holidays.. or even in this Irish and British sun sunstroke and heat exhaustion can occur!
It's not often that we have to worry about sunstroke in this country, but this May, has been the driest on record with record numbers of sun hours. It can be quite easy for fair skinned people to become heat exhausted or get sunstroke.
Sunstroke and heat exhaustion are two similar illnesses caused by the breakdown of different mechanisms in the body.
Sunstroke, also known as heat stroke, occurs when the body’s ability to keep cool malfunctions from long term exposure to direct sun on the head. The result is dangerously high fevers and hot, red, dry skin. The pulse and breathing are very fast due to the high fever. The person feels hot and weak, and the face becomes very red. Headaches, dizziness and dullness signal impending sunstroke. Nausea and vomiting are accompanying symptoms. Sunstroke is a very serious and should be treated as a medical emergency. Take immediate measures to cool the body down. If the temperature is to dangerously high, take care not to allow temperatures to fall too low.
In heat exhaustion, the body collapses due to excessive loss of fluid from sweating too much and drinking too little. It does not necessarily have to be a very sunny day. Unlike sunstroke, the skin is pale, cold and clammy. There is no fever. Blood pressure is low and the pulse slow and weak. Sudden drenching sweats signal the start of heat exhaustion. Anxiety, weakness and fatigue arise long before the collapse, Heat exhaustion is much less serious, and through it should also be carefully monitored.
Both heat exhaustion and sunstroke are easily avoided with simple measures. Intense exercise in the sun and heat can easily lead to exhaustion and heavy sweating. If exercising in the heat cannot be avoided, drinking enough liquids with sufficient minerals, particularly salt, is of utmost importance. I myself, in very hot climates always take ½ teaspoon of salt everyday with a glass of water, but I tend to lose a lot of salt.
Clothing should be loose and airy enough to allow the skin to sweat to keep the body cool. Children, the elderly and weak convalescents are most susceptible to the hazards of heat. Alcohol also reduces the body’s ability to respond appropriately to heat. Circulatory collapse as a result of standing too long in the heat will produce heat exhaustion. In this case the venous system collapses, allowing too little blood to return to the heart and the brain. It is best prevented by walking around. If the person feels faint or actually does faint, lying them down with legs raised should help. Women with low blood pressure and a poor venous system are most susceptible.
Stay cool in hot weather by eating refreshing fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, pineapple and cucumber. Real lemon juice added to cold water and a spoon of honey is a great for over exposure to heat and sun.
Tissue salts are very useful for getting too much sun.
Take four tablets under the tongue every half hour until the person feels better. Nat Mur http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18111/New-Era-No-9-Nat-Mur-450-Tablets/ is helpful for bad effects from too much sun, for hammering headaches and drowsiness.
Ferr Phos, http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/18107/New-Era-No-4-Ferr-Phos-450Tab/should be taken for fever and head congestion with throbbing sensations.
The Homeopathy remedy Belladonna http://www.thenaturalway.ie/store/product/15980/Weleda-Belladonna-30c-125-Tablets/is beneficial if skin is hot and burning, and the head throbs with pain.
Enjoy the good weather!

:)