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.
Showing posts with label astragalus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label astragalus. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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