Natural healing - Natures Remedy

Kelp: an Iodine-Rich Sea Vegetable

January 25, 2012 By Nature's Sunshine Leave a Comment

kelp for natural health

A nutrient-dense, brown sea vegetable. Kelp has long been used as food and medicine. As a food, kelp is usually eaten is small quantities; it is also used as condiment. Kelp is harvested from oceans around the world. Many different species and varieties are used, but all have essentially the same properties.

Kelp’s primary taste is salty, due to the fact that sea water dries on the leaves and adds a small amount of sodium chloride to the herb. It is also salty due to high potassium content. The secondary characteristic is that the plant is mucilant and slightly bitter. Seaweed is warming (due to its action on the thyroid) and cooling to tissues (due to its soothing mucilaginous nature).

Kelp is one of the richest sources of the element iodine, which is needed by thyroid hormones to help regulate the body’s growth and development. It has been only in recent years that this seaweed has been consumed by peoples other than the Japanese. Studies have proven that there is a significant correlation between the Japanese intake of kelp and the country’s dramatically lower rates of breast cancer, obesity, heart disease, respiratory disease, rheumatism and arthritis, high blood pressure, thyroid deficiency, infectious disease, constipation and similar gastrointestinal ailments.

By the 18^th century doctors began to notice that people who lived along the Atlantic Coast rarely developed enlarged thyroid glands, known as goiters. They realized that this was because people along the coast consumed seaweed regularly. Iodine can also protect cells from damage by radioactive substances and heavy metals. It is beneficial because its ability to combat radiation exposure and heavy metal toxicity. A chemical in Kelp called sodium alginate prevents the absorption of radioactive strontium 90. Strontium 90 is a byproduct of nuclear explosions and nuclear power and weapons facilities and has been linked to a number of ailments including cancer and leukemia, bone cancer and Hodgkin’s disease. One study has shown that alginate supplements can reduce strontium 90 absorption by as much as 83 percent. Sodium alginate helps to prevent the absorption of newly-ingested heavy metals.

Native Americans also recognized the benefits of Kelp, saying it prevented a condition they called “big necks” (goiters). Those who suffered from a lack of iodine were given kelp. Some of the Indians, especially those living on or near the seacoasts, found kelp beneficial in helping burns and scalds. In the 1860’s, physicians in Britain and France noticed that people who consumed iodine seemed to lose weight more easily than most people. They discovered that iodine stimulates the thyroid, which in turn boosts the body’s metabolism rate. As a result, the body is able to burn calories more quickly.

Women’s breast is the second biggest user of iodine and many breast ailments can be helped by using an adequate intake of iodine. All tissues of the body need iodine, but the parts of the body that suffer the most from iodine deficiency (beside the breast and thyroid) are the skin, eyes, prostate and uterus.

Kelp is found in various Natures’ Sunshine formulas. Kelp is an ingredient in Adaptamax a remarkable formula that I personally like a lot. Adaptamax is part of the Glandular System Pack which also includes Master Gland and and Adrenal Support. This Glandular system pack provides nutrients to nourish the body’s glands, support positive mood, promote energy and strengthen the body’s ability to regulate stress. It supports the natural defense mechanisms against all types of stress, along with antioxidant-and-nutrient rich herbs and whole foods to enhance the immune system, increase energy levels, and promote mental and physical well- being. Kelp is also found in Thyroid Activator, Thyroid Support, Energ-V, Heavy Metal Detox, Herbal Trace Minerals and Target TS-II.

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Filed Under: Natural healing, Women's health Tagged With: Arthritis, breast cancer, constipation, gastrointestinal, heart disease, high blood pressure, Iodine, Kelp, Obesity, respiratory disease, Rheumatism, Thyroid

Digestive Rescue for the Holidays

November 21, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

holiday digestive issues

Thanksgiving is here and so are the wonderful meals around this holiday. Digestive problems for everyone are more common during these holidays. Problems such as gas, bloating, headache, nausea, intestinal cramps and diarrhea can accompany such occasions. There are a few things you can do to help digest this amazing treats. According to Steve Horne, there is one particular element missing in our diets is contributing to this problems, enzymes.

Horne explains that Enzymes are a very important part of digestion. Enzymes are proteins which act as a catalyst in chemical reactions. Because of the low temperatures in the body, we would starve to death waiting for our food to digest if we didn’t have enzymes to speed up the chemical reactions which cause digestion. Raw, whole foods come with the food enzymes specifically made for their own digestion. Enzymes in raw foods are released when we are chewing. In the mouth these enzymes start to breakdown protein, carbohydrates and fats. Then they travel to the upper part of the stomach and cardia. Here the enzymes continue to digest the raw food for 30 to 60 minutes. Then the food travels to the lower stomach where the food enzymes are inhibited and the body supplies digestive enzymes such as those made by the stomach, pancreas and small intestines to continue breaking down the food. Some of the enzymes from the food are later activated in the intestines.

Food Enzymes, Proactazyme, Hi Lipase, Protease Plus and Papaya Mint are great choices to support the digestion. The more you eat the more enzymes you need. As explained above, the body produces its own enzymes, however as we grow older this production diminishes and we need to supply them to the body through our food and supplementation . Enzymes are vital for digestion, and yet they are missing in our diets today. Enzymes are easily destroyed by the way we prepare our foods. Enzymes only survive at temperatures below 118F. Baking are barbecuing usually occurs at temperatures of 350F or higher. Canned foods must be heated to high temperatures to sanitize and preserve the food. Processed and refined food are usually subject to too much air, heat or light which kills the enzymes present. According to Steve Horne people who have diets low in enzymes also have low levels of energy. Studies show that the more enzymes that are available in the body the more energy the person will have. Enzymes help store sugar in the muscles providing energy and the quick reactions needed to contract muscles. Enzymes also provide the energy necessary to help send nerve signals. Half of the energy generated by the body is used to digest food. With enzymes present in the diet, less energy is needed to digest food and more is available for other needs.

Food Enzymes help to digest protein, carbohydrates and fat. Papaya Mint comes in a chewable form, they are refreshing dinner mints and digestive helpers, easy to take on the go as well. Papaya mint can be used before, during or after meals.

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Filed Under: Natural healing, Seasonal Illness Tagged With: Bloating, Diarrhea, digestive, Gas, Headache, Intestinal, Nausea

Good “Thyme” for this time of the year

October 25, 2011 By Lilian Dirito 1 Comment

thyme herb

A delicate looking herb with a penetrating fragrance, thyme is a wonderful addition to bean, egg and vegetable dishes. Both fresh and dry, thyme is a useful great herb.

Thyme has a long history of use in natural medicine in connection with chest and respiratory problems including coughs, bronchitis, and chest congestion. Only recently, however, have researchers pinpointed some of the components in thyme that bring about its healing effects. The volatile oil components of thyme are now known to include carvacolo, borneol, geraniol, but most importantly, thymol.

The information below was obtained from Herb Allure to give you a wider spectrum of the properties of Thyme and Fenugreek.

Thyme’s volatile oil has also been shown to promote expectoration of phlegm and destroy worms, while the constituent thymol, has been shown to exhibit potent anti-fungal activity. Thyme has an antiseptic effect that enables to help with respiratory infection and minor throat infection. The combination of flavonoids and volatile oil in thyme provide antispasmodic qualities which are particularly beneficial for helping chronic coughs such as whooping cough. Furthermore studies have confirmed the herbs bronchodilator (dilates the bronchioles) effects. Thyme is commonly suggested for allergies. Asthma, bronchitis, excess mucous, colds, fever, hay fever, headache, laryngitis, pleurisy, sinus congestion and sore throat. Thyme also stimulates the production of digestive fluids, relives abdominal pain, and acts as a mild sedative. Thyme contains B-complex vitamins, vitamins C and D, as well as a rich source of chromium, iron and silicon. Thyme also contains fairly high amounts of cobalt, magnesium, manganese and selenium.

My favorite herbal combination that contains thyme is Fenugreek and Thyme. Fenugreek and Thyme is an herbal decongestant and expectorant formula which helps relieve respiratory congestion, inflammation and infection. Fenugreek and Thyme helps thin mucosal fluids and stimulates expectoration.

According to Herb Allure source of information, Fenugreek acts as an expectorant and antispasmodic to loosen phlegm and help stop chronic coughs. Research has also shown that fenugreek induces perspiration to help lower fever, a quality that has been compared by some authorities with that of quinine. Fenugreek also stimulates the production of digestive fluids to enhance digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Fenugreek is even recommended for convalescence and in cases of anorexia to promote weight gain.

Fenugreek provides anti-inflammatory properties, which help sooth inflamed tissues, as confirmed by Belgian researchers. In fact, these soothing properties have been found to help stomach problems such as dyspepsia, gastric ulcers and gastritis. French scientists have shown fenugreek stimulates general pancreatic secretion; of use for improving sever diabetes. A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed fenugreek lowered blood glucose and serum lipids levels in type I diabetes. Fenugreek’s rich supply of steroidal saponins, including diosgenin, has also been implicated as responsible for lowering cholesterol. Fenugreek is high in iron and selenium and is a rich source of viscous fiber. Fenugreek contains generous amounts of choline and vitamin A, as well as biotin, inositol, lecithin, PABA, and vitamin B1, C and D. Fenugreek also supplies a sizeable amount of the aminoacids arginine, histidine, leucine and lysine. Fenugreek has been shown to increase breast- milk production due to the lactation activity of fatty acids present.

Fenugreek and Thyme gives you a powerful support for this fall and winter.

Beat Insomnia – Tips for a Better Night Sleep

October 12, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

insomnia sleep disorder

Steve Horne, Master Herbalist and President of Tree of Light Institute, wrote a guideline of 12 tips for a better sleep that has personally helped me and I would like to share with you.

Horne gets you started by giving you a dozen tips for getting a better night’s sleep. Pick one or two to work on at a time and see if they make a positive difference in your sleep patterns.

I often find that most people with insomnia fall on the category of tips 9 through 12; however the rest of them are great reminders to help your body to quite down. Here is his guideline:

Sleep Tip #1: Schedule Sleep: Your body has an internal clock that helps engage periods of sleep and wakefulness. If you can get on a schedule that allows you to get to bed at roughly the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning, it will ease both falling asleep and walking up.

Sleep Tip #2: In Chinese medicine, it is believed that certain meridians (or energy flows) are active at certain times of the day. According to this theory, the gall bladder and liver meridians are active from around 11pm to 1 am and 1am to 3am respectively. This is the peak time for your body to detoxify if you are asleep by 11pm. If you are not asleep when your gallbladder meridian becomes active, you may get a surge of nervous energy that inhibits sleep. This will be followed by feeling sluggish and tired the next morning.

Sleep Tip # 3: Avoid Late Night Stimulation: Avoid activities that get your adrenals pumping. This includes watching exciting TV shows or movies, exercising before bed and listening to loud stimulating music. Instead, try to listen to relaxing music, read uplifting books or share a massage with your partner.

Sleep Tip # 4: Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: Remove TVs, computers, cell phones and other distractions from your sleep area and keep your bedroom uncluttered and free of electric devises. You can also support your body with herbal combinations like Herbal Sleep or Kava Kava, especially if you have muscle tension.

Sleep Tip #5: Don’t eat late: It is hard for your body to fall asleep when it is digesting a heavy meal, so try to eat dinner at least two hours, but preferably four before bed time. Food Enzymes with your meal may help digestion as well.

Sleep tip #6: Make your sleep area dark to help your body to convert a neurotransmitter called serotonin into melatonin. Melatonin puts you to sleep. So, make your bedroom as dark as possible. You can also support your body with the supplement 5-HTP Power.

Sleep Tip#7: Breathe deeply. Oxygen is very important to sound sleep. Breathe deeply as you lie in bed and focus on relaxing your body, starting with your toes and working your way up to your head. Focus your mind on your breathing and mentally saying positive statements like “am relaxed” or “all is well”. GABA Plus or Stress-J are great supplements to help quite the mind if you need extra support.

Sleep Tip#8: Quite your mind. Get a pad of paper and write down your to-do list for the next day. This will help to “get it off your mind”. I find this tip very helpful myself.

Sleep Tip #9: Reduce your stress level during the day to help you sleep better at night. If you are tired during the day, but have poor quality of sleep at night, you may be suffering from adrenal exhaustion. This includes fatigue, mental confusion and emotional sensitivity during the day, followed by restless sleep. Two of the best remedies for this is Nervous Fatigue Formula TCM and Adrenal Support.

Sleep Tip #10: Balance your Blood Sugar. If you wake up in the middle of the night thinking about your problems and unable to go back to sleep, this can be a sign of blood sugar problems. What is happening is that your blood sugar is dropping too low in the middle of the night and your adrenal glands are firing off stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) to elevate your blood sugar. Avoiding sugar, white flour products, alcohol and caffeine will help. Licorice Root and Super Algae good supplements for additional support.

Sleep Tip # 11: Stay Hydrated. Proper hydration calms the brain and promotes better sleep. Try drinking at least ½ ounce of pure water per pound of body weight per day. In other words, two quarts (64 ounces) is the right amount of water for a 128 pound person.

Sleep Tip # 12: Be Physically Active. Take a walk, dance, swim, ride a bike, lift weights or otherwise engage your muscles 15-20 min per day to improve your sleep.

exercise health

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Filed Under: Insomnia, Natural healing Tagged With: Insomnia, Sleep, Sleep disorder, Sleeping

Maintaining a Healthy Cardiovascular System

October 4, 2011 By Nature's Sunshine Leave a Comment

healthy cardiovascular system

Maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system is essential for vitality, wellbeing, and the proper functioning of the body as it ages. The health of the cardiovascular system is continually threatened by formidable foes in the form of cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension (high blood pressure) and an unhealthy lifestyle. All of these factors contribute to coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD, which can lead to a heart attack, is the leading cause of death in the United States and can be a major cause of disability. CHD occurs when the arteries that supply the heart with blood become hardened by calcification and narrowed by an accumulation of excess cholesterol and fat deposits called plaque. When a clot forms due to unstable plaque, blood flow through the artery becomes blocked, and this causes a heart attack. Almost 700,000 people die of CHD in the United States each year, and that accounts for about 29% of all deaths in this country.

Fortunately, the threat of CHD can be reduced or prevented by addressing various risk factors. Lifestyle modification can reverse many of these factors. For instance, eliminate obesity by adopting a sensible diet and a reasonable exercise program. Also, stop smoking cigarettes and/or using other forms of tobacco. Syndrome X or metabolic syndrome leading to diabetes may have a genetic component, but many of the symptoms can and should be reversed immediately. Diabetes has a major negative impact on the cardiovasculature, and this disease must be avoided at all cost.

High blood cholesterol and triglycerides are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Genetic predisposition accounts for the risk of high cholesterol levels in some individuals. But for the majority, unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits are the key risk factors. Reducing LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and elevating HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels are big steps in the direction of cardiovascular health.

A diet high in plant-based foods has long been associated with cardiovascular benefits. These benefits may be partly related to plant sterols or phytosterols. Phytosterols are essential components of plant cell membranes and are naturally found in abundance in food sources such as wheat germ, wheat bran, corn oil, peanuts, macadamia nuts, canola oil and olive oil. Phytosterols resemble the chemical structure of cholesterol. Because phytosterols are chemically similar to cholesterol, once ingested they compete with cholesterol during the absorption process. This results in an inhibition of cholesterol absorption and eventually decreases LDL levels in the body. Numerous research studies have documented the safety and efficacy of phytosterols in lowering cholesterol levels (1,2).

Red yeast rice, a product of rice fermented with the yeast Monascus purpureus, has long been used in China as both a food and a medicine. Research has shown that red yeast rice contains compounds that are similar to prescription medications that lower cholesterol levels. Red yeast rice has cardiovascular benefit because of an inhibition of the liver enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, a key component involved with hepatic cholesterol synthesis (3). Red yeast rice may lower the risk of CHD by helping to manage blood cholesterol levels.

Recent studies have demonstrated a correlation between cardiovascular disease and vitamin K intake (4). Two forms of vitamin K occur in nature, and both are important in the diet and it dietary supplements. Vitamin K1, also known as phylloquinone, is present in plant foods and is essential to blood-clotting mechanisms. Vitamin K2 is a collective term for a group of vitamin K analogs called menaquinones. Vitamin K2 can be obtained from the die, but it is also produced by the bacteria that line our intestinal tract. Recently, research has demonstrated that vitamin K2 can reduce the incidence of CHD. It has been found that vitamin K2 consumption is linked to fewer cases of CHD, less aortic calcification and lower mortality (4).

Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) is a vitamin-like compound present in all cells but is most concentrated in the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas (5). Co-Q10 cellular levels decrease with age and have been observed to be low in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Co-Q10 supplementation is beneficial in addressing cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension and congestive heart failure and has been shown to reduce heart attack risk (6).

Fish oils are high in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Daily consumption of one gram of fish oils from fish or fish oil supplements may decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke, and the progression of CHD. Consuming fish oil supplements is associated with a 23% reduction in overall mortality and a 32% reduction in death from cardiovascular causes in people with or without CHD. However, most Americans do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. Therefore, an omega-3 fatty acid supplement is an important and convenient way to meet the daily needs for this important nutrient.

Approximately one in three adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure or hypertension. Unfortunately, hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer” because most people don’t know they have it until significant disease symptoms appear. Untreated, hypertension increases the risk of CHD and stroke. Extracts of grape seed and arginine-based products may lower elevated blood pressure and may be useful to those who want to achieve and maintain cardiovascular health.

Created by Dr. William J. Keller

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References:

Becker M, Staab D, Von Bergmann K. Treatment of severe familial hypercholesterolemia in childhood with sitosterol and sitostanol. J Pediatr 1993 Feb;122(2):292-6.
Pelletier X, Belbraouet S, Mirabel D, Mordret F, Perrin JL, Pages X, Debry G. A diet moderately enriched in phytosterols lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations in normocholesterolemic humans. Ann Nutr Metab 1995;39(5):291-5.
Heber D, Yip I, Ashley JM, Elashoff DA, Elashoff RM, Go VL . Cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice dietary supplement. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999 Feb;69(2):231-6.
Geleijnse JM, Vermeer C, Grobbee DE, Schurgers LJ, Knapen MH, van der Meer IM, Hofman A, Witteman JC. Dietary intake of menaquinone is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease: the Rotterdam Study. J Nutr. 2004 Nov;134(11):3100-5.
Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 8th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2006:pg 351.
Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 8th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2006:pg 350.

Filed Under: Cardiovascular Health, Natural healing Tagged With: Cardio, CHD, Stroke

Building Your Own Immune SHIELD

September 27, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

I believe the best way to harness the power of our immune system is by providing nutrients and supplements that make it strong and prepared for this changing season. In the past two years, I have attended a several seminars with Dr. Gordon Pedersen, P h. D. in Toxicology and master’s degree in Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness. His investigation and scientific research on Silver Shield is at the top and most updated.

Liquid Silver Shield with sol technology is the best choice for viral and bacterial infections as well as for any epidemic outbreaks. The gel is also necessary because as Dr. Pederson explains, most the diseases are transferred by hand contact. Silver Shield Gel used on hands will help prevent as much as 70 percent of all contagious diseases.

What is Silver Shield? Silver Shield consists of millions of microscopic silver particles electrically charged and suspended in water. It is used as a natural disinfectant and antiseptic and is known to kill a wide variety of harmful microorganisms. This suspended solution of silver with Aqua Sol technology is truly a shield for everyone. It is a powerful immune protector for children as well. Dr. Gordon explains that this patented silver sol technology features an engineered nano particle of specific size and resonance that penetrates and neutralizes pathogens (virus, bacteria, fungus, yeast, etc) continuously.

This patented form of silver supplement Dr. Gordon says is safe enough to consume in a daily regimen while powerful enough to destroy the causes of many serious diseases like strep throat, staph, pneumonia, salmonella, dysentery, and yeast. The Shielding effect of silver is like your first line of defense, protecting the most vulnerable parts of the outside and inside of the body from contagious disease.

Dr. Pedersen’s research affirms that Silver Shield kills 99.9% of most bacteria, yeasts and molds within 10 minutes. Continues to kill pathogens with catalytic, not chemical action. Can be used internally as well as topically. It has multiple mechanisms of action to ensure its efficacy. It is non-toxic and safe at recommended levels. “To date, there are no potentially pathogenic bacteria tested that… {this} product has not killed”- Dr. R. Leavitt, Professor of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Brigham Young University.

Claims Found in the United States Patent # 7135195: Silver Sol has hundreds of approved claims in the patent. Some of the most significant pathogens killed include: MRSA, SARS, malaria, anthrax, gram negative bacteria, gram positive bacteria, nosocomial infections, viruses including hepatitis B, HIV, influenza, and over 143 individual uses covering bacteria, viruses and fungus. Silver Sol can be used as an internal and external disinfectant because it passes through the body unchanged, so it produces no dangerous metabolites and is cleared 99% by the next day. Uses: Viral infections, fevers, bacterial infections, hand disinfectant, sinus congestion, hay fever, ear infections, rashes, asthma, pneumonia and many other ailments (“ A Fighting Chance” Dr. Gordon Pedersen).

Other Herbs to the Rescue

Elderberry Immune Chewable for Children: Contains the protector shield blend, a whole food blend of 17 fruits and vegetables, which provide powerful phytochemical nutrients and antioxidants-potent plant compounds noted for their health protective benefits. This blend provides choline, inositol and 10 aminoacids—essential nutrients for healthy brain development and cell communication for growing children.

Immune System Pack [System]. This body system pack provides year-round immune system support, creates an environment inhospitable to foreign invaders and stimulates the body’s natural defenses. Contents include:
VS-C® TCM: This Chinese herbal combination creates a favorable environment for microbial balance and supports general detoxification and respiratory functions.
Elderberry D3fense: Combines the benefits of Elderberry Fruit and Vitamin D3 with other herbs to give a year round immune support.
Immune Stimulator: Promotes immune response by stimulating macrophage, T-cell, B-cell and cytokine activity.

Solstic Immune: My favorite! It gives an immune boost in a convenient drink stick packet. A daily drinkable immune support. It is dissolved in water, tastes good, easy to drink, great for traveling. Besides Elderberry fruit, Echinacea Purpurea and Vitamin D3, Solstic Immune contains natural ingredients like Panax Ginseng, Vitamin C, blueberry, cranberry, raspberry , blackberry fruits, chock full of antioxidants and immune protectors against foreign invaders.

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Filed Under: Natural healing, Seasonal Illness Tagged With: Asthma, Congestion, Ear infections, Fever, Hay fever, Immune dysfunction, Infection, Influenza, Pneumonia, Rashes, Sinus, Viral

The A-B-C’s of a Body’s Vibrant Health – Part I

July 18, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

food-health

Through the years I have learned how important it is to start activating our bodies as a first step to achieve self-healing and vibrant health. To be able to do this process three different body systems are involved. Steven Horne and Carl Robinson, both advocates of natural healing and Master Herbalists describe it as follows: “All cells need a supply of oxygen to fan the spark of life (energy), a supply of nutrients (fuel to produce energy and heat) and a constant removal of waste materials (which utilizes water). These three needs are represented in the body by the three major systems that permeate almost every tissue in the body. They are the circulatory system, the lymphatic system and the nervous system. The circulatory system supplies oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body, thus it is the source of fuel for the life process. The lymphatic system removes much of the waste from around the cells, so it represents the need of all cells for constant removal of wastes. Finally, the nervous system provides electrical stimulus to all body tissues to promote healing and repair. It is the system that is supplying the spark of life to regulate and control all of the life processes”.

Activation is one of the four steps to natural healing introduced by Ed Millet, but has been greatly expanded by Steve Horne and Carl Robinson. A stands for Activate. That means we have to start the spark of life to stimulate the process of energy within the body. B stands for Build. That means we have to supply the body with the nutrients it needs. Finally, C stands for Cleanse. This means we have to get the waste material out of the system.

The great activating systems in our body are the nervous system and the glandular system, as they regulate the life process and control the body’s energies. Our nerves and glands respond to our thoughts and our moods, thus the principle of activation must involve our thoughts and our emotions as well. Positive thoughts and joyful feelings enhance the healing power of our body, while negative thoughts and dark feelings depress our body’s ability to heal.

Good nutrition and emotional healing make the activating process more successful. Living foods contain strong life energy; they provide more than chemical substances to the body. Horne explains that living foods also contain a source of life energy or light. They “enlighten” and “enliven” our minds and bodies. The more we refine and process a food, the more de-vitalized or de-natured it becomes. Refining food causes it to lose its vital energy or vitality. This loss of light or vital energy causes the nature of the food to break down. The food becomes “dead” and cannot fully participate in the life process.

According to Horne, when we develop positive attitudes and emotions through different paths like positive affirmations in present tense, deep breathing, visualization, aromatherapy, homeopathics and enzymes among other techniques, we provide an electrical stimulus through the nervous system that activates the healing energy of the tissues.

Enzymes are the “spark plugs” of the life process. Every biological function of the body is controlled or aided by the action of enzymes. Raw foods contain these enzymes as do many of the cultured foods (raw yogurt, sauerkraut, etc.) However, enzymes are destroyed by heat, so a diet consisting primarily of cooked and processed foods is lacking in natural enzymes.

We can find the major plant enzymes to supplement our daily nutrition in the enzymatic combination Proactazyme. Proactazyme contains Protease, an enzyme used to digest proteins. Lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fats. Amylase and Glucoamylase, enzymes that supplement the secretions of the saliva and aid the digestion of starches in the food we eat. Cellulase and Pectinase, which help process plant fibers like cellulose. Food Enzymes, according to the Herballure Hart book, Food Enzymes are a broad spectrum digestive enzyme supplement formulated to aid digestion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and ease digestive problems. Food Enzymes can also improve the absorption of vitamins and minerals, help maintain normal pH levels, detoxify the colon, and stimulate the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria.

To be continued…

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Filed Under: Natural healing Tagged With: Circulatory, Lymphatic, Men's Health, Nervous system, Women's health

Magnesium A Magnificent Mineral

June 25, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

swiss-chard

Magnesium is usually referred to as a “macro mineral,” which means that our food must provide us with hundreds of milligrams of magnesium every day. (The other macro minerals that all humans must get from food are calcium, phosphorus, sodium: nutrient, potassium, and chloride).

Inside our bodies, magnesium is found mostly in our bones (60-65%), but also in our muscles (25%), and in other cell types and body fluids. Like all minerals, magnesium cannot be made in our body and must therefore be plentiful in our diet in order for us to remain healthy.

Magnesium is sometimes regarded as a “smoothie” mineral, since it has the ability to relax our muscles. Our nerves also depend upon magnesium to avoid becoming overexcited, and this aspect of magnesium links this mineral to maintenance of healthy blood pressure. Many chemical reactions in the body involve the presence of an enzyme.

Enzymes are special proteins that help trigger chemical reactions. Over 300 different enzymes in the body require magnesium in order to function. For this reason, the functions of this mineral are especially diverse. Magnesium is involved in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It helps genes function properly. Some fuels cannot be stored in our muscle cells unless adequate supplies of magnesium are available.

The metabolic role of magnesium is so diverse that it is difficult to find a body system that is not affected by magnesium deficiency. Our cardiovascular system, digestive system, nervous system, muscles, kidneys, liver, hormone-secreting glands, and brain all rely on magnesium for their metabolic function. Magnesium helps to relax your nerves and muscles, it builds and strengthen bones and keeps your blood circulating smoothly. Magnesium and calcium act together to help regulate the body’s nerve and muscle tone.

According to health experts signs of magnesium deficiency can vary widely, some of them include: chronic stress, anxiety, aggression, loss of appetite, cramps, depression, fatigue, hearing loss, impotence, insomnia, tremors, arrhythmia, increased heart rate, headaches, elevated blood pressure, softening and weakening bones, and imbalanced blood sugar levels.

Magnesium is found naturally in whole grains, Brazil nuts, almonds, and leafy vegetables such as spinach. Chocolate is also a good source of magnesium (and magnesium deficiency may help explain why some people have intense cravings for chocolate). Other foods that are high in magnesium are pumpkin seeds, Swiss chard, soy beans salmon, raw sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, black beans, navy beans, mangoes

Magnesium is also very important for pregnant women to provide the relaxing element for the baby in all stages.

You can also find high quality magnesium in supplements like Magnesium Complex. A Herballure archive describes Magnesium Complex as a formula that offers two easily-absorbed and bioavailable (ready to be utilized by the body) forms of magnesium-magnesium citrate and magnesium malate. Magnesium Complex contains these two different forms of chelated magnesium to ensure optimal absorption.

Filed Under: Natural healing

Pantothenic Acid – a Very Amazing Vitamin

May 19, 2011 By Val Greguire Leave a Comment

allergy-illness

Most of us have very busy lives and deal with a good amount of stress on a regular basis. To keep up with this busy pace, your body requires a constant supply of B-vitamins. One particular B-Vitamin called pantothenic acid or Vitamin B5 is stored in the adrenal glands (your stress support glands) and is readily burned up under stress.

Whenever we use up a nutrient at a high rate, we create deficiencies. This imbalance creates symptoms which are manifested in the body. A lack of pantothenic acid creates a variety of symptoms one of which seems to be nasal congestion and increased sensitivities to allergens. Our son Tyler has had trouble with nasal congestion for over a year. He did not respond well to any of the allergy/sinus formulas I tried him on. The congestion was worse at night and made it hard for him to breathe when he slept. He also got very congested at school due to all the allergens in the air. I put him on 250 mg. of pantothenic acid at bedtime and his congestion cleared up and he was able to breathe clearly again. I give him an additional 250 mg. before going to school as well.

Here are results of a couple clinical observations:

Pantothenic acid supplementation may reduce allergic reactions, especially allergic rhinitis. Clinical observation: The majority of over 100 patients with allergic rhinitis who took 250mg of pantothenic acid twice daily had almost instant relief. [Martin W. On treating allergic disorders. Townsend Letter for Doctors Aug/Sept 1991: pp.670-1]

Clinical observation: A physician with allergies took 100mg at bedtime and found that his nasal stuffiness cleared in less than 15 minutes and that he stopped awakening at 4 or 5 AM with cough and mucous secretion. He subsequently found that many of his patients also noted significant relief of nasal congestion from supplementation. [Crook WG. Ann Allergy 49: pp.45-46, 1987]

Here are other symptoms of pantothenic acid (B5) deficiency…

A lack of B5 tends to cause an allergy or sensitivity to citrus fruit. This allergic reaction creates an intense craving for these foods. I often find that people low in B5 will crave orange juice. They often find they have to clear their throat frequently after drinking it. Other foods in the citrus allergy group are lemons, lime, tangerines, grapefruit, pineapple, tomatoes and cantaloupe. When the levels of B5 improve in the body the cravings for these foods decrease as well as the sensitivity to them.
Because pantothenic acid(B5) plays such a role in the health of the adrenal glands we find that a lack of this nutrient causes people to have excessive worry. People low in B5 will worry about little things that normally should not bother them, and they can worry excessively over bigger things. In addition B5 has been shown to be very useful in reducing the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
B5 plays an important role in the production of hydrochloric acid (HCL) the acid made in your stomach to help digest proteins. When people are under high stress they deplete this vitamin tend to have a lot of digestive problems and food allergies.
B5 is needed for the conversion of proteins and carbohydrates into energy, so it is common to have low energy when B5 is deficient. Adrenal Fatigue is caused by excessive stress over a long period of time, combined with inadequate nutrition to support the stress. This condition is greatly benefited by the addition of B5. The formula Adrenal Support (#1507-0) supplies pantothenic acid (B5) along with nutrients needed to rebuild and strengthen tired adrenal glands.
A lack of pantothenic acid is attributed to premature graying of the hair. Supplementing with this vitamin has been known to reduce or reverse premature graying.
The use of pantothenic acid is considered valuable in arthritis. One study found that the pantothenic acid content of the blood of persons suffering from rheumatoid arthritis was lower than that in healthy individuals. In some cases, 1,000 mg administered daily was found effective in reducing the pain caused by arthritis.
Vitamin B5 has been found to be very helpful in reducing acne. B5 works in the body with CoeEnzyme-A in the role of fat metabolism. Fats that don’t get broken down properly get deposited in your sebaceous (oil) glands and get secreted as sebum (oil). Oil is a fat in liquid form. One of the causes of acne is from the bacteria in your pores that feeds on this excess oil. Supplementing with pantothenic acid decreases this excess oil and helps clear up the acne. I have seen good results with this with our teenage son Harlow whom I gave 250 mg. twice daily to. His skin started clearing up significantly over the first 2 weeks of use.
Pantothenic acid helps the immune system to fight infections
A deficiency symptom of Vitamin B5 can cause burning foot syndrome in which a person feels a lack of feeling in their feet accompanied by burning pain and fatigue.
Pantothenic acid is very helpful for those who suffer from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) because it strengthens the adrenal glands which play a role in balancing insulin levels.

Pantothenic acid (B5) is readily available in whole foods but destroyed easily when foods are processed. B5 is water soluble so it is depleted in the body by excessive coffee drinking as well. Because it is easily lost in the urine it is best to divide your pantothenic acid dose into several smaller doses throughout the day. Doses of 250 mg. twice daily and up to 500 mg. 3 times daily have been used most commonly for the conditions listed above. Nature’s Sunshine has Pantothenic Acid (250 mg) in capsules (# 1640-2). Whenever you take any B-vitamin it is recommended to take a full B-complex or multiple vitamin containing the B’s along with your additional B5. I recommend the B-Complex formula called Nutri-Calm (#1617-3) for those of you under stress that also have nervous tension. When deciding on your daily dose of pantothenic acid make sure to check how much you are getting from your B-complex of multiple as well.

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Filed Under: Natural healing Tagged With: Acne, Allergies, Allergy, Arthritis, B-complex, graying, Stress, Stuffy nose

Parasites: The Unwanted Guests

May 3, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

liver-fluke-parasites

Are you ready for a good spring cleansing? Our bodies like the seasons have changes as well, and it is up to us to help with these changes in a healthy way. A parasite cleanse is a clever way to start.

Many people assume parasitic infections in humans are only a problem in underdeveloped countries; however they also pose a serious problem in the United States. There are, in fact, many species of parasites that show no socioeconomic boundaries and can be found in all climates. In fact, researchers say today that Americans today are host to more than 130 different kinds of parasites ranging from microscopic organisms to tapeworm.

A parasite is an organism that lives off the host (the host being us). They live a parallel life inside our bodies. They feed off our energy, our own cells or the food we eat. They even feed off the supplements we take. A smart parasite lives without being detected. If it were detected it would be eradicated. They are intelligent in their ability to survive and reproduce. If you learn to read your body’s signals you will be able to recognize their presence. No organ is immune from their infestation.

Chronic fatigue, immune dysfunction, diarrhea, gas and bloating, allergies and nervousness are some of signs of parasites in adults. Children more likely have worms if blisters appear on the lower lip (inside mouth), if they grind their teeth or are restless at night, or if they frequently wipe their nose or itch their rectum. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 90 percent of all parasitic infections in the U.S. are by single-celled protozoans.

Parasites thrive in environments where yeast or fungus are present, acid levels are elevated, and many other toxins are prevalent. The best and safest way to eliminate parasites is to use natural herbal and homeopathic supplements. A parasite cleanse should be done twice a year for relatively healthy individuals and four times a year for people with lowered immune system response. Also, individuals that have pets in the home should consider de-worming their pets and doing a parasite purge four to five times a year.

It is important to detect, eliminate and repair. A parasite program should be for approximately six weeks, since the parasites go through an incubation period of between three and four weeks. My favorite is Para-cleanse Para-cleanse. Repeat the cleanse in another six weeks to ensure all parasites, especially those that may have avoided initial supplement exposure, are dealt with. Then be sure to rebuild and repair by balancing pH levels in the digestive tract by eating a lot of green vegetables, also you may supplement the friendly flora with a good probiotic like Probiotic 11. Support the digestive system with Food Enzymes and replenish fiber in the colon with Nature’s Three or Psyllium Hulls.

It combines helpful herbal ingredients in a gentle effective blend that includes Black Walnut ATC Concentrate, Herbal Pumpkin, Cell Reg and Paw Paw. This program helps to cleanse and detoxify unwanted foreign invaders. It is conveniently packed in individual servings.

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