Treating ADD With Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine is a practice which people either live by or laugh at; there does not seem to be any middle ground. When it comes to treating Attention Deficit Disorder, alternative medicine refers to any treatment technique which falls outside the realm of standard behavioral treatments and medication.

Dietary intervention is one such treatment in which certain foods are eliminated from a child’s diet to reduce or eliminate the negative effects of ADD. This is based on the misguided belief that ADD is caused by food allergies or certain manufactured products, such as food dye or preservatives. While many people strongly trust this belief, there does not seem to be any scientific foundation for it.

Another alternative treatment is the taking of nutritional supplements, which, of course, is the opposite principle of dietary intervention. Specifically, the use of glyconutritional supplements, megadose vitamins, amino acid supplementation, Gingko biloba, or any number of other herbal remedies have been touted to cure ADD. Special care should be taken in consuming herbal remedies as they are not regulated by the FDA. Children are also especially susceptible to negative effects of such supplements. Seek the advice of a doctor before giving any type of medication to your child.

Interactive metronome training, which trains the child to keep a rhythmic beat in time with a computer, is based on the lack of motor timing and planning abilities in children with ADD. This, in turn improves upon that inability. While only one study has been done, this technique shows some promise. It, of course, requires more research before its usefulness can fully be assessed.

The use of lead treatment in children with ADD is base upon increased hyperactivity in animals as a result of lead poisoning; this has led some to believe there may be a correlation between high lead levels and hyperactive children.

A specific realm of treatment which has gotten little respect is that of motion sickness medication, treatment for candida yeast, and optometric visual training. These each fault inconspicuous culprits for ADD, such as inner ear problems (motion sickness medication), toxins produced by excessive yeast in the body (candida), or faulty eye movements and eye sensitivity (optometric visual training). Each of these have been completely disregarded by the medical community as having no basis in reality.

Other alternative treatments for ADD include applied kinesiology, or the realigning of the bones of the skull, as well as chiropractic treatment to balance brain activity through spinal manipulation.

What Ginseng Is and What It Does

What Ginseng Is:
Ginseng is the dried root of one of several species of the Araliaceae family of herbs. The most commonly used type is Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng C.A., Meyer), often sold as Panax, Chinese, or Korean ginseng. Closely related to Asian ginseng is American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.), which is sometimes preferred for its milder effects. Siberian ginseng, also called eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus Rupr ex Maxim), isn't as closely related to the other two and contains a series of unrelated compounds. Eleuthero is also considered weaker in action and is a less expensive ingredient. Ginseng-containing foods and dietary supplements are typically made from a powder or extract of ginseng root.

What It Does:
Ginseng is widely used in the United States to improve overall energy and vitality, particularly during times of fatigue or stress. While there is not much clinical evidence to support an energy boosting effect, there are studies showing its potential value in normalizing glucose levels after meals in diabetics, stimulating immune function, treating male impotence and, when used with Ginkgo biloba, improving memory and symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Plant chemicals called ginsenosides are believed to play a role in ginseng's activity. They are considered "marker" compounds for ginseng — that is, their presence (or absence) and their chemical profiles can indicate the type and quality of ginseng in a product.

Use Ginkgo Biloba to Starve Off Alzheimer's and Dementia

Dementia, Alzheimer's, and other mental diseases are accelerated by the,

* The lack of blood to the brain
* The lack of oxygen to the brain
* The lack of minerals and vitamins to the brain
* The lack of glucose to the brain
* Increase of toxins to the brain.

The lack of blood to the brain is caused by arteriosclerosis - plack buildup along the arteries causing them to narrow. Arteriosclerosis occurs when you have a diet that causes damage to the artery walls promoting cholesterol and other minerals and nutrients to patch up the damage. Over time, as this patching continues, this area will become narrow and in some case blocks the flow of blood.

As early as possible it is always recommended that you research what a health diet is. Find a diet that will minimize damage and inflammation in your body. Starting a healthy diet at any age is helpful but the sooner you start the better.

Ginkgo Biloba has been found effective in increasing the circulation of blood throughout the body including the brain. When this happens more blood moves into the brain and supplies it with the nutrients in the blood.

Ginkgo Biloba also helps brain cells use glucose and thereby increases brain energy. It helps improve brain cell transmission and brain wave tracing. It helps short-term memory by speeding up the brain cell impulses.

Using Ginkgo Biloba for dementia and Alzheimer's has show to slow down, delay, and even reverse these conditions in some cases. Use of Ginkgo Biloba is more effective when used in the early signs of senility, dementia, or Alzheimer's.

If Alzheimer's is well progressed, Ginkgo may have only a slight value. But when Alzheimer's and other dementia issue are due arteriosclerosis or lack of blood to the brain, then Ginkgo may provide some relief and improvement in these conditions.

Here is the type of Ginkgo you should use:

* Ginkgo Biloba Flavonglycosides Extract 24%, 40 mg per day

Results in using Ginkgo Biloba can take from 3 - 12 weeks. It is a safe herb and may only have slight side effects such as headaches and dizziness, but these will disappear as you continue to use it.

If you are faced with signs of reduced mental capacity, Ginkgo Biloba is but one nutrients that can help you starve off it progression. There are many other nutrients that you need to add to your diet to help Ginkgo Biloba do its job better.

What to do about colds and flu

Article Body:

Its that time of year again! Catching a cold can make you feel quite unwell for a few days, but isn't as serious an illness as it can seem to be to you while you are in the midst of it.

The old saying "It takes three days to develop a cold, three days to have it, and three days for it to go away," is pretty accurate, so if your cold has lasted longer than around nine days its time to ask your medical advisor for help as it may not be a cold at all.

Flu, on the other hand, can be a serious illness, especially if you are very young, in old age or suffer from respiratory complaints already. There are quite a few different flu viruses, and each behaves differently, so what do you do to avoid catching a cold or flu, and what can you do to relieve the symptoms if you are unlucky enough to get it?

First - all about Colds.

Colds are contagious viral respiratory infections that cause inflammation in the linings of the nose and throat. Because a virus causes them, taking antibiotics will not help, but there are many natural remedies that will help you cope. The symptoms of the common cold are familiar to everyone and include: - nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, a stuffy head, headache, minor muscle aches and pains, tiredness and a sore throat.

What causes colds?

There are more than 200 different strains of the cold virus. Most adults develop immunity to the majority of them over time. The symptoms are not caused by the virus itself, but by your body's defence systems working to rid you of the virus.

Colds are easily spread by direct and indirect contact with a cold sufferer, or via the air from the sneezing or coughing of someone who already has a cold. It is not exposure to cold, wet winter weather that causes colds, but a lowering of your body's immunity due to stress, overwork etc. It is also thought that indoor (central) heating and dry air may dry out your nasal passages and make them more hospitable to cold viruses. (Consider using a humidifier.)

Cold Prevention

Maintaining a strong immune system by managing stress and living a healthy life style is the long-term answer. Practitioners of Chinese Medicine and Qigong would also recommend that you maintain your vital life force energy (qi/chi) by practicing Tai Chi, Chi Kung or using energy for self healing (as in Reiki). When you practice these energy exercises you raise your energy vibrations to a level that will guard you against external pathogenic factors (germs and viruses). Also, limit your exposure to the cold virus by washing your hands often, steering clear of people with colds, avoid sharing towels and phones, and try not to touch your face with unwashed hands.

Natural Cold Treatments

Supplements can help you recover faster as well as reduce some of your symptoms. Vitamin C, the most popular choice, does not actually prevent colds, but will help boost your immune system's response to the viruses and help shorten its duration.

Vitamin A taken in high doses (50,000 IU twice a day) at the first signs of a cold, can help fight the virus. Do not continue taking such high doses for more than five days. And if you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy do not exceed 5,000 IU of vitamin A per day.

Ginger is the favourite Ayurvedic cold remedy. Combine equal amounts of ginger, cinnamon and lemongrass, steep in a cup of hot water for about 10 minutes and then add honey to taste. Or replace the lemongrass with a pinch of cardamom.

 

The herb echinacea is an immune booster. This natural antiviral herb should not be taken for more than two weeks at a time. The herb Goldenseal can be taken along with echinacea and works well to reduce cold symptoms.

Zinc lozenges may also help speed recovery and may relieve sore throats. (Look for lozenges containing zinc gluconate, glycinate and ascorbate).

To soothe a sore throat try a gargle with warm, salty water several times a day, and drinking hot fluids, including tea and chicken soup, is soothing. If you can why not have a rest in bed if you feel bad.

When to call the doctor

Infants and the elderly may be at risk of developing pneumonia. If after a few days, the cold suddenly takes a turn for the worse, and you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, a productive cough, and a high fever then call a doctor.

If you have asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, be prepared to call your doctor if you seem to be getting worse.

What to do about Flu (Influenza)

Flu is a contagious viral infection. A bad cold is very like a mild flu, but a more severe case of flu affects the whole body, with fever between 101°F to 103°F and chills, pounding headaches, joint and muscle pain, cough, dry or burning eyes, sore throat and fatigue.

The incubation period for flu is generally three or four days after exposure to the virus. Although flu generally lasts for less than 10 days, fatigue and lack of appetite may continue for weeks afterwards.

Just as with colds, the symptoms of flu are caused by the body trying to fight off the virus. And again, as with colds, there is no actual cure, although rest and some herbs and supplements can help make the symptoms more bearable and support the body's fight against the virus.

People at greatest risk of developing complications with flu are the elderly, people suffering from chronic illness (such as heart or lung disease) and anyone whose immune system is depressed, such as AIDS patients, or recent chemotherapy patients.

What are the causes of Flu?

Outbreaks of flu are caused by mutating strains of three basic types of influenza viruses and often occur as an epidemic. The viruses are caught and passed on in the same way as cold viruses. 

 

Type A viruses are usually the most potent and are most often responsible for epidemics. The B type viruses are less severe, and type C viruses are responsible for the mildest cases of the flu that are most like a common cold.

Flu Prevention

For people most at risk of complications the flu vaccine is an option. Zanamivir (Relenza), which is a nasal spray, and oseltamivir (Tamiflu) are both anti-viral drugs that may be prescribed, but you need to take them early in the course of the illness for them to work.

Supplements that can help relieve flu symptoms.

Vitamin A may help shorten the duration of the flu. Take as recommended for colds (see above).

Taken in high doses (2,000 mg three times a day, for five days), vitamin C may also help.

Consider the herb echinacea to boost your immune system. Do not take echinacea for more than two weeks without a break though.

Also try the homeopathic remedy called Oscilloccocinum.

Acupuncture can help some people to avoid catching flu, or to avoid the worst of the symptoms and shorten the length of the illness if you do get it.

Natural self care remedies for Flu.

Stay in bed, resting or sleeping, until your temperature returns to normal.

Drinking plenty of warm fluids. Take water at room temperature and choose fruit/vegetable juices, or vegetable, chicken, or clear beef soups.

As with colds, to ease a sore throat gargle with warm, salty water and suck zinc lozenges.

If you have a dry, non-productive cough use a humidifier in the room and add eucalyptus oil or Olbas Oil to an oil burner.

And lastly - a general herbal remedy for colds and flu.

Crush a medium sized garlic clove and half a teaspoon of fresh ginger, squeeze the juice of a lemon. Mix together with a teaspoon of honey in a cup of warm water and drink up to three cups a day.

For most people having a cold, or even flu, is unpleasant but passes fairly quickly, and the positive side is that you are unlikely to catch that same virus again for quite some time after you have had it, because your immune system has developed antibodies against it. So pamper yourself and rest, you'll most probably soon be better again.

What If Low-Carb Diets Can Cure Diabetes and Heart Diseases

Low-carb diets can be advantageous in increased body weight , heart disease and treatment of diabetes according to new clinical studies .

Low carb diets still revolutionize the clinical practice of nutrition. Many scientists are now indicating low carb solutions for many disease states, according to Richard D. Feinman, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn.

He also says "And practically speaking, some of the clinical results, particularly in diabetes, are quite remarkable."


"I have seen many patients who were heading for disaster and who have turned their disease and their lives around simply by avoiding foods they cannot tolerate: carbohydrates."

This simple, effective approach could reverse the epidemic of Type 2 diabetes," says Mary Vernon, MD, FAAFP, CMD and President of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, Known for her controlled carbohydrate challange with her patients for some time now.

"Thanks to the low-carb approach we've seen many patients reduce or completely eliminate drug therapy. Of course, it is up to a patient if they want to continue their medication, but they should at least be given a choice of a non-pharmacological approach."

Low carb diets seem to have always had a metabolic foundation and although the news attention has concentrated mainly on the business side of the topic, science continues to dramatically move forward with it.

Some of the important findings about low-carb diets are:

+ A restrained carbohydrate way of life is an efficient way to control Type 2 diabetes blood sugar. Patients are consistently able to lower or do away with disease.

+A third of overweight Americans who are trying to lose weight, are doing so by eating less carbs.

+ More recent evidence to bear the weight of the benefits of a restrained carbohydrate way of life for heart risk factors such as low HDL and small LDL lipoprotein standard.

+ A restrained carbohydrate way of life may be the best treatment for metabolic syndrome, a forerunner condition to diabetes and heart disease.

+Over 60 percent of Americans are overweight; 38 percent are actually doing something about it.

What Is Goji Juice?

Goji Juice - Goji (Lycium barbarum – Latin).

While it has occupied an important place in traditional Asian medicine for countless generations, the secrets of its nutritional benefits have remained a mystery to most of the world.

Through the ages, legends abound about this miraculous fruit, the goji berry. There are festivals held to celebrate its goodness, and a poem was written in its honor.

During the Tang Dynasty (around 800 AD), a well had been dug beside a wall near a famous Buddhist temple that was covered with goji vines. Over the years, countless berries had fallen into the well. Those who prayed there had the ruddy complexion of good health, and even at the age of eighty they had no white hair and had lost no teeth, simply because they drank the water from the well.

It is said that the Himalayans were the first natural healers, and that they shared their wisdom with the ancient herbalists of China, Tibet, and India. One of their most prized secrets was the fruit of the native goji vine, which had been flourishing in the Himalayan valleys since the beginning of time. Those who came there to learn took the goji home with them and planted it in their own valleys, thus spreading the legend of this most marvelous and healthful fruit.

The people of Central Asia who love and cherish these goji berries so much that they devote two weeks every year to festivals in their honor.

Scientists realized four primary bioactive polysaccharides were discovered in Lycium barbarum. They named them Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP).

Research suggests that goji’s unique polysaccharides control and command many of the body’s most important biochemical defense systems.

Since its discovery in the Himalayas, those who know of the remarkable goji berry are awed by its unmatched health-promoting powers.

Scientific research from major universities around the world has validated the remarkable health benefits of the goji berry claimed by the Himalayan Healers thousands of years ago. Over 50 studies have already been published in prestigious health journals, including:

British Journal of Nutrition, International Immunopharmacology, Journal of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Journal of Ethno pharmacology China Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Herb News Magazine Research Communications Molecular Pathology and Pharmacology Chinese Patent Herbs, Chinese Herbs, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery Chinese Oncology Magazine, Hygiene Research, Physiology Academic Journal Chinese Stomatology, And Many More...

To quote Dr. Mindell's book, "Goji: The Himalayan Health Secret"... "many of the world's longest living people consume regular daily helpings of a tiny red fruit that just happens to be the world's most powerful anti-aging food: the Goji Berry."

This tiny fruit revealed itself to be quite possibly the most nutritionally dense food on earth!

Why You Should Consider An Herbal Colon Cleanse

Colon Cleanse
Colon cleansing uses natural health & herbs to help your body to heal health problems which are often related to a colon which is not functioning as nature intended.

More and more people are suffering from health problems, including pain, constipation and lack of energy which can be related to a dirty bowel.

The most important cleanse to do is colon cleansing, because if you have a dirty colon with impacted fecal matter, this will create extra toxins which the other organs then have to continually cleanse and detox.

The #1 CANCER AMONG MEN AND WOMEN TOGETHER IS COLON CANCER.

The person on a typical Western Diet holds 8 meals of undigested food and waste material in the colon. Everyone would greatly benefit with doing a full Colon Cleanse at least once per year, with ongoing colon maintenance when necessary. It is recommended that Parasite Cleanse be taken at the same time as the Colon Cleanse. For optimum health, our objective should be to cleanse not only the colon, but all of the vital inner organs as well.

One of the most frequent bowel problems that people experience today is constipation. Constipation is generally attributed to a low fiber diet and lack of sufficient water, which cause our fecal matter to become condensed and compressed.

A good cleansing program should always begin by removing the waste in your colon, the last portion of your food processing chain. If you attempt to clean your liver, blood, or lymph system without first addressing a waste filled bowel, the excreted toxins will only get recycled back into your body.

The longer your body is exposed to putrefying food in your intestines, the greater the risk of developing disease. Even with one bowel movement per day, you will still have at least three meals worth of waste matter putrefying in your colon at all times. On top of all this, your system can also become continuously self-polluting by the poisonous gases that are caused by foods you don't tolerate. These poisonous gases can enter your bloodstream, irritating your organs and joints.

Bran and raw vegetables are so rich in fibrous bulk that they cannot get through the tiny holes remaining for passage of feces in most colons. Instead they back up, fester and contribute further to the problem. There is only one good way to clean yourself out and that is by cleansing your colon.

Natural Cleansing Products
Herbal colon cleansing may decrease the risks of developing certain health problems. Many people who are affected by a health condition have found that cleansing can help their body rejuvenate itself naturally. The body's immune system is the first line of defense against almost all infections and diseases. If your body has a strong immune system you will be less prone to infection. The immune system is made up of a vast system of lymphatic channels and lymph nodes. Detoxing your body and your colon with the right herbs and supplements is an all natural way to remove unwanted toxins and heavy metals from lymphatic system improving the overall immune system.

Toxins from air, food and water tend to accumulate in your body over time. Your liver, colon, small intestines, pancreas, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen and lymph nodes work in harmony and in balance to eliminate these toxins.

Cleansing with Fibre
Fibre plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the digestive system, and adequate fibre in the diet has significant value in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and other ailments. Fibre cleanses the digestive tract and enhances its function. Metabolised by intestinal bacteria into substances that prevent colon cancer, fibre dilutes and speeds the removal of carcinogens and other toxins in foods so that they spare the delicate lining of the GI tract. Fibre helps achieve optimal blood sugar control and cholesterol levels by slowing digestion and maximising cholesterol excretion.

Benefits of Colon Cleansing and Liver Detoxification
• colon cleanse and liver detox products increase energy
• colon cleanse and liver detox improves digestion
• colon cleanse and liver detox result in clearer skin complexions
• colon cleanse and liver detox improve circulation
• colon cleanse and liver detox increase mental alertness
• colon cleanse and liver detox support weight maintenance
• colon cleanse and liver detox balance the function of vital cleansing organs
• colon cleanse and liver detox strengthen your immune system

Why You Need Bacteria in Your Colon

Bacteria in your colon are referred to by many different names – probiotics, good or bad bacteria, beneficial bacteria, acidophilus, disbiosis, micro flora, proflora. friendly flora, and unfriendly bacteria.

I simple use good and bad bacteria to refer to all the bacteria that exist in the small intestine and your colon.

Your colon has both good and bad bacteria. The good bacteria maintain the health of your colon by keeping the bad bacteria from multiplying and reducing constipation.

Most people have bad bacteria as the dominant condition in their colon. You can see this by the illnesses that exist throughout the world. Most people later in their life suffer from diseases that resulted from colon neglect and abuse.

Bad bacteria multiples when you,

* Consume poisons such as pollution, pesticides, food additives such as preservatives, coloring, so on.

* Drink alcohol

* Eat processed foods

* Have excess anxiety

* Lack fiber in your diet

* Use birth control pills

* Use drugstore laxative

* Use drugs and medication

Good bacteria in your colon consists of hundred of species of bacteria. The good bacteria are most active in a pH of 5.9 to 6.9- an acidic environment. This makes for a healthy colon.

Your colon serves as a home for the good bacteria, which ferment specific carbohydrates, which in turn keep your colon environment slightly acidic. The acid environment favors the good bacteria and keeps the bad bacteria and pathogens from multiplying.

The bad bacteria create an alkaline environment and are most active in a pH of 7.1 to 7.9

Again, the good bacteria creates an acidic environment and are most active in a pH of 5.9 to 6.9

Acidophilus and Bifidus are the main good bacteria that exist in your colon. The ascending colon, on the right side of your abdomen area, has the most bacteria. The quantity of bacteria becomes less in the transverse colon and lesser in the descending colon. Eventually, little bacteria is found in the sigmoid and rectum.

When good beneficial bacteria is dominant, in your colon, it prevents the spread of disease from various organisms – parasites, bacteria, viruses, fungi. The specific organisms

Shigella, salmonella, viruses, encephalitis, protozoan, amebas, staph, herpes, flu, cold viruses, comphylobacter, and CMV,

are the ones that creates killer diseases such as dysentery, blood poisoning, meningitis, pneumonia, influenza and encephalitis

The good bacteria keep these organisms in the minority, thus preventing them from multiplying, getting into the blood, and into the different body organs. They do this by their antibiotic like secretions, lactic acid production, and other secretions, which keep their environment acidic.

The good bacteria live and thrive on carbohydrates. When your body has good digestion and little carbohydrates reach your colon, the good bacteria population decreases and the bad bacteria become dominant.

Good bacteria need to be fed to keep it dominant in your colon. If there are any good bacteria left in your colon, then by feeding them, you can get them to multiply. If there are not any good bacteria in your colon, then you cannot reestablish the good bacteria by eating specific carbohydrate foods. To reestablish good bacteria, under this condition, you must do a flora enema.

In his book, Acidophilus and Colon Health, 1999, David Webster, also says,

“Indicators of a healthy colon flora are a soft but well-formed stool, with amber color and little or no odor, and that floats in water most of the time. When the stools are dry, dark brown, too solidly formed or too loose, and especially if there is a putrid odor, these are clear indicators of a putrefactive, alkaline-producing colon flora. Chronic constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome are often eliminated when your colon is restored and maintained at a slightly acid pH.”

In his research, Webster found that feeding the remaining good bacteria edible lactose whey rejuvenates the good bacteria in your colon. By drinking 2 – 5 tablespoons or more each day in a cup of distilled water enough lactose can reach your colon to feed the good bacteria. Webster recommends doing this for 30 days. After this period you can check your stools to see if you have reactivated you good bacteria

Why Not Try A Natural Cure For Your Asthma?

Have you been off work because of your asthma? Does it get worse at certain times of year or under stress? Are you worried that it's beginning to affect your job and limit your lifestyle?

Just one year ago, I found myself in a similar position. Here I was at home (again!) with a bad bout of asthma and concerned for the security of my job as this was my eighth day off with asthma that year. That found me searching the internet for a natural cure for asthma, researching the causes of asthma, how they relate to allergies (which I had as a child) and looking to see what medications and treatments were available. Fed up with taking increasing doses of blue and brown inhalers, that seemed to leave me dependent on medication I read around to see if anyone had found a successful method of controlling their asthma without medication.

If you've had asthma, you'll probably relate to the awful feeling when yet another attack comes on and your life is thrown into disarray. You may find that the doctors don't have time to discuss alternative treatments, but simply prescribe the usual inhalers at each visit, check your breathing and lung capacity and sign you off until the next visit.

What I found was both interesting and disturbing. The evidence was that much of our asthma today is induced by our modern world. The most concerning thing was that there is no incentive for the drug companies or the doctors to find a natural cure, as they're all making a considerable profit from the conventional inhalers.

By searching for “natural asthma cure” I found stories of people who had found alternative methods of managing their asthma and who had been able to cut down their medications (under the advice of their doctor, of course). These are stories that don't hit the headlines, but for the individuals involved are life changing.

I decided to give these “new” ideas a try - I had nothing to lose and everything to gain - my job was on the line. The simple regimes involved took less than five minutes per day and within less than a week I could feel the benefits. I've managed to cut down but not cut out my asthma medication and feel far fitter and healthier. The best news of all, I can take a long walk with my son without having to take the inhaler with me.

If you're considering an alternative treatment for your asthma, do some research on the internet, check with your doctor or medical practitioner, and be prepared to try more than one idea. Do make sure that you keep your inhaler with you at all times during this trial period. Do try it for more than a day or two, your body may take time to adjust. What works for one person may not work for you, we're all different.

For further tips and ideas for how to manage your asthma,
visit Asthma treatment

This article was submitted by Jen Carter, writer of this asthma information article.

What You Need to Know About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is one of the rarest forms of cancer with “only” about 2,000 cases reported in the United States. Still, it is perhaps the most deadly. Those unfortunate enough to have been diagnosed with the disease generally live 4 to 9 months after diagnosis. There is, at this time, no “cure” for the disease---only treatment options that may extend the life and comfort of the victims of mesothelioma by a few short months.

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important that you seek out immediate medical and legal help. You may very well have a case against the industry that caused the illness.

Those worker smost at risk of developing this deadly disease include, asbestos and talc miners, auto mechanics (working with breaks), those working with asbestos cement, demolition workers, shipyard and power plant workers. The only cause of mesothelioma is the inhalation of asbestos dust, so if you believe you’re working around asbestos, it is important you take the proper precautions now!

If you have not yet developed mesothelioma, there are precautions you can take to greatly reduce your chances of developing this terminal disease.

Fortunately, with the advent of the worldwide web, there is an abundance of information available on this subject. I encourage the reader to seek out mor information on this dealy disease

What Is Iridology

Iridology is the science and practice of analyzing the iris, the most complex external structure of the human anatomy. The practice of Iridology is expanding rapidly as it is becoming known as a valuable tool for preventive healthcare. The iris is connected to every organ and tissue of the body by way of the brain and nervous system. It is in direct contact with the bio-energetic, biochemical, structural, hormonal, and metabolic processes of the body via the nerves, blood vessels, muscle fibers, and lymph. Holistically, it is used to accurately assess the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual patterns and weaknesses for a complete health analysis. It is completely painless, non-invasive, and economically viable while providing valuable information for restorative and preventive health care.

Most Iridologists also incorporate the study of Sclerology into their assessments. Sclerology is the study of the whites of the eyes as they relate to the person’s health. Interpreting the red lines, colorations, and markings in the sclera is closely associated with present pathology of the body. This is based on the twelve meridians and the yin and yang aspect of each meridian. The Chinese saw the lines in the sclera as a reflection of the lymphatic fluid which bathes every cell in relation to the principles of acupuncture. This principle concludes that imbalances in the meridian energy register in the sclera. Native American Indians also analyzed the eyes to get a better understanding of the stresses affecting a person’s health.

Nature has provided us with an invaluable insight into the vital status of the health of any individual through the sciences of iridology and sclerology. Through analyzing the eyes it enables us to ascertain the person’s genetic predisposition to health and disease, the general constitution, as well as organ and gland influence on other bodily systems. Personality tendencies, thought and emotional patterns, and deeper soul-level issues can also be recognized, making the eyes truly the windows to not only the body, but the mind and soul.

Iridology has progressed tremendously since the mid 1800’s. Numerous doctors and scientists have researched iridology on humans over the past 125 years and it has become a respected practice, used by many medical doctors and naturopaths worldwide. Dr. Bernard Jensen, renowned Iridologist and Nutritionist, pioneered the science of iridology here in the U.S. Dr. David J Pesek, PhD has continued and expanded upon Jensen’s work to develop one of the most comprehensive iris charts used today, integrating the thought and emotional patterns with the physical health, and improving the understanding of the ‘brain flare’ areas.

With today’s technology and the use of microscopes and fine digital imaging, many medical doctors, naturopaths, and psychologists from England, Germany, Italy, France, United States, Australia, Canada, and Russia have been advancing the field of iris analysis over the past 20 years with a seemingly unlimited potential. The brain areas, which are analyzed in the upper quadrant of the iris , have further defined emotional and spiritual health. Time-Risk assessment, has been documented, proven and shared with advanced iridologists around the world.
Time-Risk is a fascinating degree of exactitude, using the posterior epithelial cells which wrap around the pupil, to determine the actual time when imbalances in the body, mind, spirit may have occurred from childhood until old age.

Research projects are currently being done by many Iridologists/Researchers around the world. One study in progress is being done by the American College of Iridology which targets the markers in the corresponding intestinal area of the iris to pinpoint bowel disease in its early stages. This will rapidly bolster iridology in the United States as an integral part of the preventive health care system by understanding genetic influences and learning how to properly care for the body to avoid potential disease.

John Andrews, a top Iridologist and researcher from the United Kingdom publishes the Advanced Iridology Research Journal quarterly, including many works from Dr. Danielle LoRito, MD from Italy, Dr. Mikhail Dailakis, MD from Greece, Dr. Vincent Di Spazio from Italy, Dr. David Borow, an oncologist and medical Iridologist from Austria, Prof. Javier Griso Salome from Spain, Prof. Serge Jurasunas from Portugal, and many others. This Journal includes topics such as ‘Profiling Aging through Iridology’, ‘Multiple Sclerosis and Iridology’, ‘Hypoglycemia’, ‘Dysbiosis – Intestinal Immunology’, ‘Biophysics and Quantitive and Qualitative Biochemistry’, and ‘Iridology – Potential in Medicine’. Clearly we can see that Iridology is taken quite seriously by influential doctors who are open to progress of an alternative nature.

The iris will alert us to the early signs of approaching ‘dis-ease’; although any well educated Iridologist will be sure to warn that the iris cannot diagnose disease, but can recognize potentials for disease as well as toxic accumulations and tissue weakness within the body. As the evaluations are made, and the stress conditions understood, proper corrective measures can be applied. The body can then more easily adjust and alleviate the abnormal stress resulting in a greater degree of health, as well as enabling one to potentially avert any threatening disease.

Each eye gives us different information. The left eye correlates with the left side of the body and the right side of the brain, which is the feminine, creative, conceptual, intuitive side, relating to our emotional selves. The right eye correlates to the right side of the body and the left side of the brain, which is the analytical, practical, linear, masculine side and relates to our work and logical self.

Thus the eye is the very aware ‘informant’ regarding the CAUSE of body stressors. Iridologists trained in interpreting the indications portrayed in the eye have the advantage of occupying ‘command central’ rather than a peripheral monitor such as blood, hair, tongue, or urine analysis, which do not have full access to all of the body’s information (although each of these diagnostic systems provide specific valuable information). Practically speaking, the right hand may not know what the left hand is doing, but the brain centers know what both hands are doing simultaneously and the eye is privy to that information.

Knowing the various stressors on the body can be essential in preventive health care. These stressors may be simple, moderate, or severe and can represent conditions such as nutritional deficiencies, poor circulation, congestion, fatigue, pH acid/alkaline imbalance, infections (bacterial, viral, parasitic), nerve stress, toxic accumulations and abnormal cellular activity. Patterns may register an abnormal stress development long before any serious effects are experienced. With the stress conditions understood, proper corrective measures can be applied by nurturing the causative factors with natural therapies (nutrition, herbology, enzyme therapy, homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, counseling, etc.) leading to a greater degree of health.

Your Iridologist is an important part of a health care team. I encourage my clients to discuss the health care analysis and program I provide with their doctors or other health care providers. Some doctors understand the value in such an analysis and will refer clients to an Iridologist for a whole body assessment, often reducing the discomfort, costs, and time involved for the patient.

The eyes can also show us the cleansing and healing signs as the body adjusts to a more optimum state of health. All we need are the keys to understanding the symbols….and here it is, looking right into our eyes!

References from : Holistic Iridology, by Dr. David J Pesek, The International Institute of Iridology, and Insights in the Eyes, an Introduction to Sclerology, by Dr. Jack Tips, ND, PhD, The International Sclerology Institute, and The Advanced Iridology Research Journal by John Andrews.

Wipe Off The Years From Your Appearance

For health conscious liver detox is mandatory. The best time for a liver detox is spring. Of all the things you can do in alternative health, the liver detox is probably one of the most important in terms of achieving maximum health in today's environment.

We live in an age where our deteriorating natural environment is polluting our bodies with cigarette smoke, pesticides, food additives, smog, chemical toxins, heavy metals, and more that threaten our intestines, colon, kidneys, liver and gallbladders. It is best to detoxify your liver and gall bladder twice a year.

One of the primary purposes of the liver detox is to flush all of the gallstones from your body and minimize the chances of their return. One all natural herbal product that preforms well in assisting the body through a liver detox. DEEP Liver and Kidney Cleanse will improve your digestion and immune system and help to keep your whole body healthy.

Body signals that your liver needs detoxification include:

*- Chronic constipation

*- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

*- Frequent headaches

*- Eczema or skin related disorders

*- Flatulence, gas and bloating

*- Excess weight

*- Food allergies

*- Parasites in stool

*- Bad breath and body odor

*- Constant fatigue and low energy

*- Yeast infection

*- A yellowish tint to the skin and/or liver spots on the skin;

*- poor hair texture and slow hair growth;

*- skin itching and irritation. Elevated cholesterol (and all of the problems related to high cholesterol).

*- Anemia and large bruise patches indicate severe liver exhaustion•

Detoxing is no longer practiced by only the healthy few. Detoxification is regarded as an essential element for successfully treating cancer by alternative cancer treatment specialists. Detoxification of the liver with a liver detox diet can get the liver working properly again and help the individual regain their appetite.

Detoxification is an ongoing process that takes place continuously within the liver, lymph, kidneys, intestines, blood, and colon and in every cell in your body. Feeling tired and sluggish, blocked up or headaches, with

less tolerance of alcohol, sugary foods or caffeine are all possible signs that your liver may benefit from a detox.

The liver is the organ which helps in detoxification of our bodies. Designed to cleanse and detoxify the liver, DEEP Liver and Kidney Cleanse is an easy-to-use, a natural cleanse program that contains minerals, vitamins, herbs and amino acids which have long been used to promote healthy detoxification and cleansing of the liver. Liver & Kidney Cleanse is a scientifically balanced formula that provides your body with some of the strongest natural liver and kidney detoxifying ingredients available today. Naturally remove heavy medals such as lead and mercury from the body. A colon cleanse is of initial importance so as to prevent liver poisoning from reabsorbed toxins.

Using Essential Fatty Acids for Reducing Arthritis Joint Pain

Essential fatty acids provide protection for the whole body. In particular it is effective in reducing inflammation as experienced in joint pain or arthritis.

Most people will have to deal with arthritis especially as they get older. One way to eliminate or minimize this pain is to supplement with the essential fatty acids.

Osteoarthritis, the most common arthritis, is not the only arthritis that affects so many people:

* rheumatoid arthritis

* arthritis from lupus

* gout

* psoriatic arthritis

* reiter’s disease

* infective arthritis

As you age, the constant movement of the joints creates wear and tear. Toxic wastes that circulate in the blood, dead cells, and liquid can accumulate in the various joints and cause inflammation and pain. Continual inflammation can cause damage to the joints. In some cases the cartilage that coats the bone ends, wears down and joints then rub bone to bone causing extreme pain.

Using the essential fatty acids provides lubrication for the joints as the move against each other. This reduces the wear that can occur at these joints and this results in less inflammation.

There are several conditions and lifestyles that contribute to arthritis,

* Obesity

* Diabetes

* Heredity

* Poor nutrition

* Poor digestion

* Lack of water

* Allergies

* Repetitive use of fingers, hands, legs or arms


* Body injuries – sports or accidents

Arthritis is a difficult disease to treat because there is usually more than one cause. Just working on one cause may not help enough to give pain relief. But it always helps to know the many things that contribute to arthritis so that different nutritional and lifestyles changes can be made.

The use of flax seed oil, omega-3, is known to provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Omega-3 breaks down into prostaglandins. It is the prostaglandins that provide the anti-inflammatory results.

So by using the omega-3, GLA, and EPA/DHA supplements, you can get some relief from arthritis. These oils reduce inflammation and pain and provide lubrication, thereby preventing some damage from occurring in your joints.

It is recommended that you use a good dose of,

* Borage oil

* Primrose oil

* NKO oil

Using these oil spread across the day, provides the benefit of feeling reduce joint stiffness and pain in the morning. Use the different oils one bottle at a time. This gives you the health benefits that these different oil provide.

One additional benefit to using these oils is the coating protection that GLA has in the stomach lining.

The standard treatment for arthritis is the use of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors. These, however, have undesirable side effects such as attacking the stomach lining. Thousands of deaths and visits to the emergency are associated with the use of NSAIDs.

You can benefit greatly if you use NSAIDs by adding GLA oils to your diet and help to prevent the serious side effects of the NSAIDs.

There you have it. Eat the essential fatty acids and provide your body with what it needs to build strong and healthy joints.

Will surgery help my back pain?

Everyone experiences back pain at some time in their life. In fact, it is in the top three complaints that people bring to the doctor’s office.

In most cases there is soft tissue inflammation, muscle spasms, or degenerative arthritis. These respond well to conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medicines, stretches, and osteopathic manipulative therapy. Physical modalities such as heat or cold, massage, and acupuncture are also helpful.

So when should you worry? Any loss of bowel or bladder control needs immediate attention. Surgery can release the pressure on the nerves and full function usually returns.

The longer the loss of bladder or bowel control continues without treatment, the higher the risk of permanent damage. This also includes weakness of any muscles in the legs or feet. Plus you can reduce the risks of falls and fractures.

Contrary to popular opinion, a thorough history, neurological and structural exams, plus basic X-rays of the spine can diagnose the problem 80-90% of the time. Expensive MRI studies certainly can be helpful looking at the cross-sections of the spine into the discs and spinal cord. But, in most cases it will not change the eventual conservative treatment anyway.

Consider an MRI if surgery is likely. Certainly if there is no improvement in your symptoms after several weeks or there is worsening of your pain.

Besides the obvious causes of low back pain from muscle spasms, degenerative discs and osteoarthritis, chronic structural imbalances play a major role. Wear and tear to the spine from old trauma, sports, and obesity cause the discs to lose their cushioning ability. They also may bulge or protrude backwards.

Over 50 years of age almost everyone has changes I the discs loosing height and acquiring some bone spurs. However, not everyone has pain. Again, unless the nerve root coming out of the spinal cord or the spinal cord itself is squeezed, surgery will not help. Even radiating leg pain called sciatica along with numbness and tingling in the legs can go away over time with proper treatment that includes osteopathic manipulation therapy.

Studies show that back pain sufferers who have surgery have no better pain relief or function than those who didn’t have surgery after five years passed. Certainly if surgery is recommended it is wise to get a second opinion.

What Kind of Massage is Right for You?

Massage feels sinfully good, doesn't it? The truth is, massage is one of the best things you can do for yourself; especially during times of change such as menopause.

This soothing therapy has been shown to lower blood press, reduce muscle pain, improve joint flexibility and alleviate headaches, just to name a few of its healing powers.

Most people think of massage in terms of muscle aches, but it's much more than that. It increases blood flow to your muscles, tissue and every cell in your body which brings oxygen and nutrients to these critical areas. It also stimulates lymphatic flow, improving tissue drainage and the immune system.

Here are some of the different strokes you have to choose from:

Acupressure
An ancient Chinese technique involves the therapist using his fingers to press key points on the skin to release muscle tension and promote circulation and energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture involves needles. The pressure restores balance to the body and treats ailments such as headaches, menstrual cramps and constipation.

Swedish Massage
This is probably the most common form of massage in the US. Its main goal is relaxation and improved circulation. The therapist applies oil to the skin and uses flowing strokes and kneading movements to relieve tension from the muscles.

Deep Tissue Massage
This type of massage is more vigorous and uses various styles to loosen the muscles. It helps break patterns of tension, relieves chronic pain, including inflammation-related pain such as tendonitis and improves range of motion.

Shiatsu
Shiatsu is Japanese for “finger pressure.” This technique is similar to acupressure where the practitioner uses their finger, thumb, palm, elbow, knee (and sometimes even walk on you) to put pressure on acupuncture healing points. This unblocks the flow of energy and encourages blood and lymphatic flow. It also promotes relaxation and strengthens the body against disease and restores balance.

Sports Massage
This treatment incorporates several massage techniques which is great for athletes. It keeps the body flexible, increases performance and assists in rehabilitation from an injury.

Hot Stone Therapy
During this therapy, heated stones are placed strategically on the body which dilates blood vessels and gets blood and oxygen flowing into tense areas. It can feel like a body “rush.” The soothing heat can also prepare the body for deep-tissue work as well as alleviate PMS symptoms.

Aromatherapy Massage
The therapist incorporates essential oils extracted from herbs, flowers and roots into the massage. They select the proper oils based on a particular physical condition and blend them into a massage oil or lotion. The end result is a relaxing massage tailored to your individual needs.

Reiki
This therapy is an Eastern method meaning “universal life energy.” It brings healing energy to the organs and glands in order to bring the body back into balance and help prevent disease. The massage practitioner places their hands on or just above the body to realign chakras and dissolve toxic substances from your physical and emotional being. People often feel warmth or tingling sensations during Reiki.

Pregnancy Massage
This massage focuses on a pregnant woman's needs including swollen hands and feet, stress on weight-bearing joints, exhaustion and lower back pain. And of course the practitioner positions you to accommodate your baby bump.

Craniosacral Therapy
This therapy involves the Craniosacral system which extends from the skull to the bottom of the spine and consists of the brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid and surrounding membranes. The practitioner uses a light touch to restore cerebrospinal fluid movement. This can help treat such conditions as headaches, eye and ear problems as well as whiplash and back pain.

What Is Alternative Medicine?

What is alternative medicine? This is a term used to describe the different forms of medicine other than conventional methods. Alternative medicine includes a wide variety of medical practices including non-European (non-Western) medical practices and will include some new approaches to medicine. There is also a term called complementary medicine. This is a combination of conventional medicine coupled with alternative medicine.

With increasing research and new findings in medicine there is a universal rise in the Western nations of alternative medicine. In the Eastern part of the world, namely the Orient, some forms of alternative medicine has been practiced for many centuries. Part of this trend in the West may be due to the growth of medical education among people and the increased amount of travel to different regions. More literature is now available on this subject and medical societies specializing in different forms of alternative medicine are available.

Some of the most common forms of alternate medicine are:

Acupuncture
Homeopathy
Naturopathic medicine
Osteopathy

Acupuncture: this is an ancient art which had its origins in the Orient. It involves manipulating and inserting needles into special points in the body. It is thought to restore health and create well-being. There are several forms of acupuncture which are taught worldwide. This is one of the most famous forms of alternative medicine.

Homeopathy: is a form of medicine that tries to stimulate the body’s immune system in order to promote healing. The practice of Homeopathy endeavors to bring the entire body back into homeostasis, or balance.

Naturopathic medicine: Is a practice that is designed to stimulate the body’s own healing system. This system utilizes multiple forms of alternative medicine. It can also be referred to as Natural therapy, and can include dietary supplements, exercise and different foods.

Osteopathy: Was originally a form of alternative medicine based on manipulation of the joints. It is still used for chronic back pain. It is often used with other forms of medicine.

When treating illness and serious diseases it is important to consult your physician before taking any decisions. Many doctors will endorse some sort of alternative medicine coupled with conventional medicine, especially if conventional medicine is not proving very effective for a chronic condition. Despite the lack of credibilty given it by MD.s, some alternative medicine can work surprisingly well. It will all depend on your particular illness and your own body’s functionality whether alternative medicine will work well for you.