Women’s health - Natures Remedy

For the Love of your Breast

January 31, 2012 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

breast cancer

Statistics show that unless we start making important changes in our lifestyle, one in EIGHT women will get breast cancer.

According to some researchers, one of the main concepts we need to learn is that breast cancer is primarily an estrogen-dependant cancer. That means, it is triggered by exposure to excessive amounts of estrogen, not just estrogen our body produces, but environmental chemicals that mimic estrogens. So, the first step is to keep these negative estrogens also called “xenoestrogens” in check. It is also very important to have a healthy diet by eating organic fruits and vegetables, and avoiding meat and chicken treated with hormones and antibiotics. Estrogens are commonly fed to dairy cattle and chicken to increase milk and egg production, this is in addition to pesticides residues that wind up in these foods.

Another source of xenoestrogens based on Steve Horne’s research, is plastics. Some examples are soft plastic toys, soft plastic containers, and water bottles. There are also xenoestrogens in some laundry detergents, household cleaning products, shampoos, perfumes and cosmetics.

Your body has natural means of defense to destroy excess estrogens. The liver is one of the main organs in charge of breaking down these toxins. You might think, then let the liver do its work! However it is not that simple, because the liver has more than 500 different functions, it gets over worked and when it gets full of toxins it is hard to get them out of the body. For the liver to be able to detoxify it needs to get good nutrition to function properly.

Foods high in sulfur are very important, like garlic, onions and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens and turnips. There is also a sulfur compound as a supplement from cruciferous vegetables called Indole-3 Carbinol that is particularly helpful in breaking down excess estrogens. It can be used as a supplement by women wishing to reduce their risk of breast cancer, for fighting breast cancer and other ailments caused by excess estrogen like hot flashes before and during menopause.

Herbal liver cleanses such as All Cell Detox and Enviro-Detox can also help the body breaking down not only xenoestrogens, but other chemicals as well.

It is important to nurture your body with pH balance nutrients and antioxidants, like Ultimate Green Zone and Thai-go or Super Orac. You also need good fats in your body from nuts, avocados, deep ocean fish and coconut oil, or supplement with Flax Seed Oil or Super Omega 3. New research shows the importance of supplementing with Vitamin D. Researchers at the University Of Rochester Medical Center followed 155 breast cancer patients months before and after surgery. Low vitamin D levels were seen in the presence of biomarkers of aggressive tumors. Women with triple-negative tumors were three times as likely to have low vitamin D levels when compared with other breast cancers. The best ways to increase your vitamin D levels is to absorb the sun’s rays and to consume it through food and high quality supplements.

Also enhance the health of your breast by making sure your glandular system is working properly and your hormones are balanced. For starters, experts recommend getting an adequate intake of iodine. The thyroid is the bigger user of this awesome nutrient. The second user is your breasts. Natural sources of iodine may help women with breast cysts as well. Iodine can be found in supplements like Kelp, Dulse and concentrated Black Walnut. I personally like the herbal combination Master Gland; it has these nutrients and more to support the entire glandular system. Pro-G-Yam, a progesterone cream helps to balance hormones and block the action of xenoestrogens. Also, the use of underarm antiperspirant deodorants blocks the release of toxins from sweat glands in the armpits and contributes to lymphatic stagnation. Try using your favorite essential oils or a natural organic deodorant from NYR Organics.

Last but not least, keep your lymph moving! The breast is part of the lymphatic system, it is very important to keep it clean and moving. Exercise, especially jumping in a rebounder is very helpful. Also realize that long periods of worry and anger can be internal toxins, draining your health. Take some time to experience joy, laughter, love and peacefulness through relaxing with friends, family and companion animals, spending time in nature, walking, dancing, yoga, tai chi or other forms of movement (like Zumba Fitness), watching funny movies, meditating, drawing, painting or using your creativity in other ways

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Filed Under: Women's health Tagged With: breast cancer, Estrogen, Glandular, Lymphatic, Women's health

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

The Power of Flowers – Part 2

December 31, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

flower power remedy

Continuing with Steve Horne’s presentation of Flower Essences: Remedies for Grief, Desire (Love), or self-destructive behaviors.

Just as our body contracts to push things away, it expands to let things in. When we “love” something, our blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow to the senses and skin. As a result our skin “glows,” our eyes “sparkle,” we are “warm” and open to embrace life. Desire allows us to say “yes” to what is pleasurable and good for us, both physically and emotionally. This same energy allows us to more efficiently digest nutrients, pull oxygen into the body and provide oxygen and nutrients to the cells.

Healthy Grief- Grief is more than crying, it is sobbing, wailing, moaning, sighing and even screaming. These actions forcefully redistribute blood to the surface of our body so we can experience pleasure again.

“Release it Remedy” Helpful for people who are going through breakups, divorce or death of loved ones. Also helpful for people who are “victims,” who complain a lot, blaming others for their lack of success and problems. Helps people find comfort, let go of the past and have hope and confidence to face the future

Its flowers are:

Self-Heal – helps a person find their own inner strength and healing. Love-Lies-Bleeding – for melancholy and anguish of the soul, helps one find meaning and purpose in one’s suffering. Chicory – for possessive, needy, demanding love, helps transform it to self-less love, given freely. Bleeding Heart – teaches the lesson that love must exist in freedom, we can’t control what we love, helps a person “let go” after divorce, death or other losses. Chrysanthemum – for fear of mortality and aging, helps a person identify with their spiritual, rather than physical nature and accept the temporal (i.e., temporary) nature of the physical world. Borage – encourages hope and optimism.

“Open Heart Remedy”

For people who are “hard of heart” because of unresolved wounds from childhood and previous relationships. Helps a person face their suppressed pain and grief and find healing. Helps them open up to love, warmth and vulnerability again. Increases compassion, empathy and trust in relationships. Some of the flowers in this remedy are: California Wild Rose – opens and comforts the heart, primary remedy for healing the heart. Baby Blue Eyes – helps with defensiveness, cynicism and lack of trust, helps one rediscover innocence, the ability to trust and receive love. Yerba Santa – internalized grief and sadness which causes constricted feelings in the chest, helps a person open up and acknowledge painful emotions, helps them “breathe freely” again. Evening Primrose – helps people who avoid commitment in relationships to commit to the process of love.

Remedies for Fear: Fear is the energy we feel when choices need to be made, that have the possibility for great reward and/or great pain. Fear strongly affects the systems that regulate body functions, such as the glandular system (particularly the adrenals and thyroid) and the nerves. When this energy of fear is channeled into constructive action through exercising courage, it builds excitement and self-confidence.

“Be Courageous Remedy”

For people who allow their fears to paralyze them in life and give up control to authority figures instead of trusting their own judgment. Helps people make their own decisions. Helps with the development of courage to act in the face of fear and self-confidence to pursue the goals and directions they desire in life. It has: Mountain Pride – helps a person confront and transform challenging situations. Aspen – for fears of the unknown, hidden fears and anxiety, promotes trust and confidence to meet the unknown. Scleranthus – hesitation and indecision, wavering between choices, promotes decisiveness and resolve. Mimulus – for facing known fears, promotes courage and self-confidence. Cerato – for people who are overly dependent on the advice of others, helps people to trust their own inner knowing. Blackberry – for the inability to translate goals into actions.

“Be Respons-Able Remedy”

Helpful for people who get caught in addictive, obsessive or self-destructive behaviors. Helps them get in touch with the inner emotions that are driving their behavior. Promotes greater self-awareness and self-responsibility. Helps a person be true to themselves and move their life in a more positive direction. These are some of the flowers in this combination: Milkweed – overcomes tendency to dull consciousness through alcohol, overeating and other addictions. California Poppy – helps those who chase glamour, fame and “glitter” to find the true “gold” in their heart. Agrimony – for people who hide their pain, fear and anxiety behind a mask of cheerfulness, promotes emotional honesty.

Filed Under: Herbal Remedies, Women's health Tagged With: Courage, Desire, Fear, Flower, Grief, Homeopathic remedies, Love, Stress

Foods that Beautify your Body – Part 1

August 25, 2011 By Lilian Dirito Leave a Comment

healthy body

It is fascinating to learn how our bodies can enhance vitality and achieve health by providing the nutrients they need to nurture the cells in the most natural and suitable way. There are several vital nutrients the body utilizes everyday to bring foods to the cells and beautify the body from the inside out. Minerals are essential in this process. Silicon is a mineral with amazing properties, beautifying properties; it is present in blood vessels, bone, cartilage, connective tissue, hair ligaments, lungs, lymph nodes, muscles, nails, skin, teeth, tendons, and the trachea. Silicon helps to maintain the elasticity of arterial cell walls. In his book Eating for Beauty, Dave Wolf an advocate of natural health, explains how silicon plays an important role in many processes in the body. For instance, in bones, silicon is found in areas of active growth. He states that “growing and healing bones may contain high levels of silicon at the calcification site, because silicon is transformed into calcium. Silicon rich foods and herbs (such as horsetail, nettles, oat straw and hemp leave) have been shown to increase bone mineral density”. He also explains that a “rich diet especially in children, leads to beautiful teeth and jaw formation. Silicon helps to prevent cavities and bleeding gums”. Other sources indicate that silicon helps for flexibility and elasticity. Rich silicon foods are: Horsetail, young bamboo, nettles, oat straw, alfalfa, radish, nopal cactus, romaine lettuce, marjoram, cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, young tender green plants in spring time, oats (steel cut), comfrey, beets, beans, peas. Try to eat the vegetables in their raw stage for better nutrition.

There are a couple of herbal combinations that I have found very helpful in supplying silicon for the body. One is HSN-W which stands for Hair, Skin and Nails. This formula has Horsetail, dulse, sage and rosemary. Horsetail contains more silicon than any other herb in a form that is highly absorbable. Silicon is found in high amounts in the skin and hair, it is also essential in the formation of collagen and elastin, which are proteins responsible for the elasticity, tone and texture of the skin. Thus deficiency of this trace mineral may bring signs of poor skin quality, as well as dry, brittle hair and soft, weak nails, weak bones, dental cavities, weak arteries and lungs disorders. Another good supplement is Ionic Minerals, a liquid formula that provides 70 trace minerals in a readily-absorbed form. According to the Herb Allure, Inc research, trace minerals play a specific role in antioxidant activity, cellular functioning, enzyme activation, hormonal regulation, metabolism, healthy pregnancy and lactation, normal heart rhythm, oxygen transport, pH balance of the blood, and in the renewal of body tissues and wound healing. They are combined with the antioxidants Acai Berry and red skin extract, as well as fulvic acid to enhance absorption.

The next nutrient I find fascinating is Sulfur. As Dave Wolf very accurately describes it…”sulfur is the foundational mineral of all beauty. It produces a flame-like tint in the skin. It creates a subtle luster as delicate as the halo around the full moon on a clear desert evening. It carries with it a certain elegance and aristocracy. Sulfur-residue foods make the complexion radiant”.

Sulfur helps protect the cells in our bodies from environmental hazards such as air pollution and radiation. Consequently, sulfur slows down the aging process and extends the life span. It is also an important part of a substance that keeps your skin supple and elastic. Sulfur is stored in every cell in the body and is especially highly concentrated in the joints, hair, skin and nails. It helps beautify complexion, mineralize the hair and make the skin glow. Adequate sulfur levels in the diet can increase the speed of recovery in athletes by 75% as reported by Dr. Stanley W. Jacob (the leading medical authority on MSM and co-author of the Miracle of MSM). Sulfur Rich foods are: onions, arugula, blue green algae, bee pollen (the most complete food found in nature), cabbage, hot chili peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, garlic, hemp seeds, horseradish, kale, maca (super food powder), mustard leaves, noni, pumpkin seeds, spirulina, watercress.

To be continued…

Filed Under: Women's health

Solving Cellulite Naturally

May 9, 2011 By Val Greguire Leave a Comment

Cellulite

Dimples that Don’t Make you Smile

The spring season brings so many changes everywhere we look. Our home and wardrobes take on many changes as well. The heavy sweaters and longs pants we wore all winter get replaced with sandals and shorts instead. It’s about that time that we suddenly become aware of our bodies again and the changes that occurred over the winter months. Weight gain, wrinkles, and aging skin seem to suddenly appear. And what of that awful cellulite, even thin women are not exempt from this one. Dimples may look cute on a smiling child but when they cover your thighs they don’t make us smile.

Cellulite is a fact of life for the majority of women. Cellulite and “saddle bags” along the thighs are partially the result of impaired lymph flow to certain areas. This causes immobilized pockets of fat and trapped toxins in the cells. Over 90% of women have some form of cellulite resulting from weight gain, a genetic predisposition, or inactivity. Cellulite begins when numerous fat cells collect in one area (generally the buttocks, thighs and upper arms in women), causing the skin to bulge. The dimpling effect occurs when the connective fibers in the skin pull down in areas where body fat is pushing up. This becomes visible because of a weakening of the connective tissue that holds the fat cells in place underneath the skin. It is a condition that worsens with age as the general strength of tissue and elasticity of skin all deteriorate with age. Weakening connective tissue is also the reason for wrinkles to form as we age and is part of the reason for the formation of varicose veins.

The good news is that you can improve the appearance of cellulite. Remember with the formation of cellulite, toxins and lymph fluid accumulates in the pockets of fat. In addition, the breakdown of the connective tissue impairs circulation into this area. So, improving the circulation of lymph in areas prone to cellulite and reducing toxic burden are two successful ways to diminish cellulite from the inside out. I’ve talked many times about cleansing, so if you’ve done your spring cleanse you’ve already accomplished step one. There is an herbal formula called Cellu-Smooth w/ Coleus (#926-0) which can give your body an added advantage on combating cellulite. This combination of herbs is taken internally. It is designed to enhance circulation to affected areas, strengthen connective tissue and improve detoxification of the cells. This formula also nourishes the thyroid gland which helps to improve metabolism and the breaking down of fat cells in the body. In addition to the supplement you need to do exercises that improve lymphatic system circulation. Walking, dancing, swimming or using a rebounder are all good examples. Dry skin brushing with a natural bristle brush is another way to improve circulation in the skin. Topically you can use Cellu-Tone essential oil blend (#3927-3). The oils in this formula improve circulation to the skin, reduce cellulite and excess fluid retention as well as tighten sagging skin. This oil blend should not be used topically just prior to sun exposure. It should not be used with people with kidney disorders. To make it easy for daily use, I mix about 100 drops of the oil (2/3 bottle) in a bottle of Herbal Trim skin treatment (#1669-0). Apply once daily, after your shower or before bed. I love Herbal Skin treatment; it is great for the warm months, as it is a very light lotion. It does not leave any greasy residue on the skin. Herbal trim lotion goes on like water and then leaves the skin feeling like silk.

To improve your results, as well as the overall appearance of your skin, you can dry brush your skin daily. Dry skin brushing is like a gentle massage to the skin. It stimulates circulation and the removal of toxins from the skin. To dry brush your skin you need a soft, natural bristle brush on a long handle. Before you shower, starting at your feet, start brushing in small circles towards your heart. Apply very light pressure, avoiding broken skin, skin rashes, or areas where the skin is thin, such as the face or inner thighs. When finished, shower as usual and then apply the Herbal Trim with the Cellu-tone essential oil to your skin.

Another factor in improving cellulite involves strengthening connective tissue. Although there are several herbs in the Cellu-Smooth that help to do this, if your cellulite is bad, you may want to consider additional support. Collatrim Plus powder (#3062-0) is a supplement that provides a high quality, easy to absorb form of protein that is used to make collagen in the body. It helps the connective tissue to repair; this will lessen the appearance of cellulite. It also helps us fight aging (fewer wrinkles) as well as repair bones, muscles, injuries etc. Collatrim stimulates the production of growth hormone. Growth hormone helps the body to repair damaged tissues, increase metabolism and helps convert fat into muscle. So Collatrim is helpful for weight loss because it activates the metabolism and promotes the conversion of fat into muscle. To improve the benefits of the Collatrim in the body it is recommended to take at least 500 mg. of vitamin C daily, I like the form called Citrus Bioflavanoids (#1646-4). Vitamin C helps the body to manufacture the collagen that forms your connective tissues. Since vitamin C is depleted under stress, those under stress should take a little more. The Vitamin C and Collatrim can also help improve the elasticity of the veins in the body. This can help with a condition called varicose veins.

Although I don’t have room in this newsletter to talk in detail about varicose veins, I am sure you can agree that they make an unwelcome appearance when seen on our legs. I would like to tell you about 2 great products that help varicose veins disappear and become less painful. Vari-Gone (#999-9) this blend of 6 herbs improves the strength, tone, and function of the veins. This formula also reduces inflammation and inhibits the action of enzymes that can damage the capillary walls. Many people have reported an improvement in both appearance and discomfort associate with the varicose veins after using this formula. Vari-Gone Cream (#4947-5) is a topical cream that can be applied directly to the varicose veins. For painful or itching varicose veins this cream can provide quick relief. It is also helpful for hemorrhoids as they are also enlarged veins. The herbs in this lotion penetrates the skin to help strengthen and repair the veins as well. For best results use these products for 3 months.

Now that you are armed with some solutions to improve your legs appearance and health, you can take out your shorts and relax. Enjoy the spring-summer season!

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Filed Under: Women's health Tagged With: Cellulite, Dimples, Weight gain

When a Scent is more than just a Pretty Smell…

September 21, 2009 By Val Greguire Leave a Comment

Smelling Fowers

Aromatherapy is a branch of natural healing that uses the essential oils of plants to support both physical and emotional health. Essential oils work in different ways on our bodies and our environment. Take for example, Lemon or Eucalyptus; these oils have the effect of ionizing the air around them. This means they break down chemicals and destroy germs in the air. Many hospitals in Europe and especially France use aromatherapy to disinfect and clean the air. In our home, when people start to get a cold, we immediately start to diffuse lemon in the air all day long to kill germs, and it smells great too! When doing laundry, I like to add 10 drops of lemon oil in the rinse water when washing whites to help disinfect them as well.

Woman Smelling Flower Scent The use of a diffuser made for essential oils, is one of the best ways to get the greatest benefit from your oils. The diffuser places the oils in the air in the smallest particle size to be inhaled, allowing for maximum availability and minimum waste. I use this method in the middle of the night if someone wakes up coughing or congested. I add five drops of Breath-free essential oil blend to the diffuser and place it in a plug in the room. In just a few minutes they are breathing clearer and coughing has subsided. If you do not have a diffuser you can still enjoy the benefits of the oils by placing them in an electric potpourri pot that heats the water which will diffuse the oils. Another night-time trick is to mix Lavender oil in a little bit of massage oil and rub it on the feet and chest of the children if they are having a restless night or trouble falling asleep. When our youngest son was a toddler and would have a restless dream, this method would put him back to a deep quite sleep in just a few minutes, of course adults are welcome to try this as well. Essential oils such as Breath-free or Eucalyptus can be added to the shower or bath to help clear morning sinus congestion. Feeling tried and sluggish, can’t concentrate? Add a few drops of Peppermint to your diffuser while you work. Want to lift your moods? Add Bergamot it has a fresh citrus smell and is known to lift depression. Geranium has a wonderful floral scent; it also helps relieve depression, nervousness, and emotional weariness. Because of Geranium’s effect on the adrenal cortex, it is helpful to balance estrogen levels, which would make it a valuable scent to help with PMS or menopause. Several oils like Bergamot, Geranium, and Lavender can all be blended together to make your own personalized blend. Ever burn your hand on the oven or iron? Apply aloe vera with a couple drops of lavender to the burn right away, it works great to stop the pain and helps it to heal very quickly. Always mix your oils in a base like massage oil, or aloe vera gel as most of them cannot be applied directly to the skin. Lavender and Tea tree are two exceptions to this rule. I recommend you pick up a book on essential oils to help you learn how to blend them and make recipes. The quality of your essential oils is very important. Check with a reputable health food store to find good quality. This industry is not yet tightly regulated; some companies only put as little as 10% of the actual essential oil in their bottle.

anatomy of aromatherapy You can also make many natural cleaning products with the use of essential oils, they make the house smell great and they contain no harmful chemicals. Sunshine Concentrate is a natural unscented all purpose cleaner which is great for adding the essential oils to. Another great use for essential oils is for repelling bugs and other pests in the warm months. I am sure that everyone reading this has experienced a time when an army of ants have invaded their home. Ants really dislike the smell of peppermint, pine or tei fu essential oils. Mix a combination of any of these oils (about 20 drops) in a 2 ounce spray bottle, spray a line of these oils across the path they are traveling on and they will not cross it. People have found that planting mint along the home also helps keep them from entering the house. This is helpful when they are finding their way into the house and you are not sure how they are getting in.

Essential oils are exciting to learn about and use, start experimenting with a few, and then work on expanding to include more (our medicine cabinet is full of them). The general rule of thumb as to which oil you need, is if it smells good to you then your body needs it, if it smells unpleasant to you, then you don’t. As basic as that sounds it’s based in more science then you’d think. The oils have a specific affinity for the nerve tissues in the body, the most immediate point of contact being the nose. These nerves send a quick message to the brain as to whether or not this particular oil is compatible with the body. Science has shown that essential oils can actually penetrate cell walls, transporting nutrients and oxygen into the cells. The overall effect is to bring both emotional and physical balance to the body. So the next time you pass a beautiful garden in bloom, take time to stop and smell the roses. They have much more to offer than just a pretty scent, they carry healing, renewing and uplifting properties as well.

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Filed Under: Women's health Tagged With: Aromatherapy, Essential oils, Natural cleaning, Natural healing, Nose, Women's health

Natural Remedies For Menopause

July 3, 2009 By Val Greguire Leave a Comment

Understanding Your Herbal Choices…

Over the years Doctor’s have prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, however we are now aware that this is not the safest or most effective choice for women. There are many herbal choices for women, that along with diet, nutritional supplements, and exercise have been found to be as effective or more effective then the dangerous HRT.

Menopause

As a women’s body prepares for menopause (the point at which she stops ovulating) her production of the hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone by the ovaries slow down. Estrogen is needed by many cells in the body for many functions such as to help control the internal temperature of the body, keep the skin moist, bone formation, and keeping the vaginal lining, and bladder healthy. When estrogen production slows by the ovaries it is the job of the adrenal glands to pick up production of this hormone. Progesterone is important during the second part of the menstrual cycle as it helps to build the lining of the uterus. It is also has a calming effect on the brain and other aspects of the nervous system. Testosterone is the hormone responsible for maintaining a healthy sex drive. As the body works on it’s balancing act during all these hormonal changes many women experience symptoms such as anxiety, dry skin, hot flashes, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, vaginal dryness, lack of sex drive, loss of concentration, urinary incontinence, and weight gain.

The following program using herbs and vitamins to support the natural hormone changes women experiences during menopause and perimenopause. Because each women is different and the symptoms experienced are from various causes it may take a little playing around with the supplements to find the just right program for you.

Basic Program:

MasterGland This is the base formula for our program, it is designed to nourish the entire glandular system. It contains herbs that balance the ovaries, thyroid, adrenals, liver, kidneys, and bladder. As well as vitamins and minerals to support the glandular system. Take 4 capsules daily.

Flash-ease This is a time released formula allows natural plant estrogens to be released into the bloodstream all day and night long. Plant estrogens mimic the hormones made by our bodies and fit into the same receptor sites in the cells. This blocks excess harmful estrogens, such as those found in breast tissue that cause cancer growth, or fills the need for more estrogens during such times as menopause. The formula contains standardized black cohosh and dong quai. Natural plant estrogens carry none of the side effects associated with HRT.

Take one tablet at morning and bedtime

Note: If you are fading off your HRT ,many women find that they get good success using the Flash-Ease one day, then their HRT the next day. Do this for a week, then use Flash-Ease 2 days, HRT one day, continue this for a week or two, gradually replacing the HRT with the herbal formula.

Some women require 2 Flash-Ease twice daily initially, if they have been on a stronger HRT.

Pro-G-Yam Cream This is a fragrance free body cream containing wild yam and progesterone. Wild Yam extract contains diosgenin a natural precursor to progesterone.

Each ounce contains 5 mg. progesterone. Research shows that progesterone helps reduce the incidences of hot flashes, it protects against cancer and fibrocystic cysts, as well as increasing the beneficial effects of thyroid hormone. Place 1/4 teaspoon of cream in the palm of your hand, apply as directed on the label once or twice daily.

* If you prefer a capsule rather than the cream you may use Wild Yam/Chaste Tree combination 1-2 capsules twice daily.

To personalize your program consider the following supplements:

After trying the basic program for 4 weeks and evaluating the results, you may wish to add some supplements to personalize your program. There are many supplements that help to alleviate symptoms of menopause because of their indirect effect on hormones or hormonal functions.

Vitamin E Well known for its ability to reduce hot flashes it also helps lessen vaginal thinning and dryness. Start with 400IU daily. Many doctors recommend gradually increasing to 400IU twice per day until hot flashes are relieved, then gradually decreasing back to 400IU over time.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) – These Fatty acids are natural precursors to natural hormones. They are very important in the diet but very hard to obtain.

Evening Primrose Oil supplies fatty acids which help to stimulate the production of hormones, lessen hot flashes, and regulate nerve transmission. They have been helpful with hair loss, dry scaly skin, and painful joints as well. EFA’s are particularly helpful with PMS tension and painful fibrocystic breasts. Many women have found benefit by taking 2-3 evening primrose daily. You can also increase your intake of essential fatty acids by adding flaxseed, raw nuts and sunflower seeds, to your diet and by consuming salmon, albacore tuna, or mackerel fish several times per week. For those of you who find it hard to regularly add these foods to your diet, supplementing with primrose oil may be very helpful.

Citrus Bioflavonoids The bioflavonoids are nutritional factors that are found naturally in foods and plants high in Vitamin C. They seem to enhance the action of vitamin C. These plant compounds act as phytoestrogens and therefore helpful in balancing menopausal hormones. They have been found to be helpful in relieving hot flashes. Another area that they are well known for is strengthening your veins and capillaries. Excessive bruising, varicose veins, or being prone to hemorrhoids are good indicators that you need more bioflavonoids. 1 tablets 3 times daily.

Insomnia – Sleep disturbances is a common problem with menopause. Part of the problem is caused by the hot flashes, which can be helped by the basic program above. But for many women sleep disturbances have been going on long before menopause set in. If you add in the prior lack of sleep, the added hot flashes and irritability, it’s no wonder a woman has a hard time functioning during early menopause. Calcium and magnesium are very important for a good night’s sleep. They feed the nervous system and help prevent irritability, muscle cramps, clenching of the teeth, constipation, and sleep problems. As well as help prevent bone loss associated with menopause. To help correct this problem I recommend Skeletal Strength This product combines calcium and magnesium along with several other necessary vitamin and mineral co-factors to ensure proper calcium absorption.Take 2 tablets 2-3 times daily.

Herbal Sleep This combination of valerian, passionflower, and hops, supports restful sleep, and provides soothing and calming properties. A great formula for those who really have a hard time sleeping, or those under high stress that can’t unwind at night. Take 3-4 capsules prior to bedtime.

For Women Under Stress – your adrenal glands are your stress glands, they help you to handle day to day stresses. However, lack of nutrients from a less then perfect diet, combined with an abundance of stresses on a day to day basis causes your adrenal glands to become weak. As menopause begins and your ovaries decrease their production of estrogen and progesterone it is your adrenal glands job to take over production of these hormones. If your adrenal glands are stressed out and exhausted they can’t handle the job, this causes too rapid a drop in hormone levels, which triggers the symptoms of menopause. The following supplements help support stress:

Nutri-Calm This combination of B-vitamins, Vitamin C and calming herbs support your adrenals under stress. Lack of B-vitamins causes irritability, fatigue, poor digestion, and /or a nervous energy that makes you go, go, go all day, but then drops around 9pm. Excessive worry, and blood sugar imbalances are also a signs of low B-vitamins. Coffee, nicotine, and caffeine further deplete your B-vitamins.

Take 1 tablet two to three times daily.

Mineral Chi Tonic This is a unique blend of herbs along with 60 trace minerals needed by the body, as well as extra potassium. The herbs in this formula are called adaptogens, they allow your body to more quickly recover from continuous stress and strengthen the adrenal glands. Several of the herbs help digestion and build the immune system as both areas suffer under stress. The herbs in this formula help increase circulation to the brain, level mood swings, and prevent hot flashes. I personally like this formula as it really helps to increase your energy, as well as deal with stress. The flavor is strong, and not very pleasant, but easily taken when followed by a little juice.

1 tablespoon twice daily, or 2 each morning. Keep Refrigerated after opening.

Loss of Libido – The decline in estrogen and testosterone levels can result in lowered libido. Damiana is a wonderful herb that has been famous as an aphrodisiac since ancient Mayan times. Because of its hormone balancing effects it is helpful in reducing hot flashes as well. Damiana has been used for lifting moods for those with depression, and helping prevent urinary infections, making this an even better choice for menopausal women. It will take a little playing around to discover the best dosage for each individual. 3-6 capsules daily works well for most people.

Depression – A certain amount of depression and mood swings are associated with menopause. Chinese Mood Elevator is a Chinese combination of 18 herbs traditionally used for depression, fatigue, and insomnia. It helps to clear the liver of toxins, and renew the nervous system. The formula is gives a increased sense of well being and renews motivation. Take 4 capsules twice daily. Make sure to drink plenty of water daily while on this formula to help clear your body of excess toxins.

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Filed Under: Women's health Tagged With: Menopause, Natural healing, Women's health

Natural solutions for Fibroid Cysts

June 3, 2009 By Val Greguire Leave a Comment

Fibroid cysts are benign cysts usually found in the uterus wall or breast tissue.

They appear to be caused by excess levels of estrogen in relation to progesterone. This does not necessarily mean you are making too much estrogen, you may be low in progesterone, or you may not be properly breaking down and eliminating the excess estrogen each month. Apart from the estrogen your body makes, there are many chemicals with estrogenic properties that you take into your body through food, and water. For instance many pesticides that people use for lawn care, or spray fruit orchards with have estrogenic properties. These chemicals end up in the air you breathe and the water you drink. Growth hormones fed to chicken and beef also mimic estrogen. Birth control pills are another source of estrogen. The excess hormones, as well as other chemicals from your environment (cleaners, hair spray, new carpet gases) back up into your blood stream. Your body sends them to the liver to be broken down and eliminated. However, if your channels of elimination are sluggish or overloaded from a poor diet, high stress, poor digestion or constipation and low water intake, then these excess hormones and toxins find there way back into body tissues. Since the breast and uterus contains a lot of hormone receptor sites they are naturally sent to these areas.

breast cancer Fibroid

The plan to break down fibroids is one of cleansing the body and balancing hormones. I have seen many women over the years break down fibroid cysts, but at the same time I have seen many that did not. Some cysts are simply too large and are better off removed surgically, but I would try this program first, as it may significantly shrink their size. Also, if you did decide on surgery You would want to do the cleanse below first to clean your system of as many toxins as possible before going under anesthesia, the drugs used for anesthesia would further congest an already overloaded liver. Many of the fibroids do not shrink as the person does not follow an aggressive enough program, or continues to work or live in an environment which is full of toxins, the body simply can’t get ahead.

The following program is designed to cleanse the body of toxins, balance hormone levels, and provide nutrients that are known to help prevent formation of cysts in the body. Even if you opt for surgery, this program would be an excellent choice to help in the further formation of cysts in the future. In this case you would use all the same supplements but only use the All Cell Detox formula for 10 days several times a year as a cleanse.

All Cell Detox This combination of 13 herbs enhances the detoxification channels of the kidneys, colon, and liver. This formula was originally formulated to help break down tumors, cysts, and cancerous growths. It has excellent cleansing herbs combined with gentle soothing and digestive herbs as well. Make sure you drink 2 quarts of water daily to allow your body to properly cleanse. 3 capsules twice daily for 4 weeks. You will want to take enough so that you are having 2-3 good bowel movements daily, so increase dose to 3 times daily if necessary.

Fiber: We need a fiber source in this program. Fiber will cause the stools to absorb more water and become bulkier, the bulky stool moves along thru the colon much faster and easier, cleaning old debris off the wall of the colon as it goes along. It is not unusual to have bowel movements wrapped in mucus on a cleansing program. There are two choices for fiber, one is the powdered form, such as our Nature’s Three (#1345-0) which you mix in 8oz. of juice or water, once or twice daily, shake to mix. The Nature’s Three has a pleasant apple taste. For those of you who just won’t drink any thing like this, I suggest the formula Fat Grabbers. This formula combines Psyllium, chickweed, and lecithin, it provides fiber and helps breakdown fats in the body. 3 capsules twice daily, take at the same time as the All Cell Detox.

* Wait until you have been on the All Cell Detox for two days before you start your fiber. this insures that your colon gets moving before you add in the fiber.

Potassium source : Another contributor to the growth of tumors and cysts is a lack of potassium. Potassium is needed to flush toxins out of the cell. Chinese Mineral Chi (#1818-3) provide needed potassium along with 66 trace minerals to help balance the body. Both these formulas help to alkalize the body. When the body is too acidic it has a problem releasing toxins from the cells, so this is very important to the program. Colloidal Minerals has a pleasant lemon-lime flavor. Mineral chi tonic has a strong flavor, not so pleasant, but tolerated when followed with a little juice. The Mineral chi is preferred for those under stress or with a weakened immune system. 1 Tbls. twice daily, keep refrigerated.

Pro-Yam Cream 500 This is a body cream containing wild yam and progesterone, supplies natural progesterone to help block estrogen from entering the cells surrounding the cyst. Since excess estrogens cause the growth of cysts and tumors, blocking some of it seems like a good idea. Apply 1/4 teaspoon once daily over abdomen, groin, or breast area. Rotate each day so a different area is saturated.

Co-Q10 Poor circulation and oxygen supply is another major contributor to the formation of cysts and tumors. COQ-10 promotes immune function and carries oxygen to cell. The addition of ginkgo and capsicum to this formula helps to enhance to the cell. One capsule twice daily thru the first bottle, then one capsule per day.

Regular exercise would be another way to increase oxygen supply to the tissues. Aerobic type exercise would also help clear the toxins from the lymphatic tissues. A mini trampoline is excellent for this.

Note: After your initial 4 week cleanse you would continue to stay on a daily fiber source, the Pro-G-Yam, and the Mineral Drink. It is important that you continually work on improving your diet by making healthy food choices, and exercise at least 3 times weekly. If you tended to be constipated before the cleanse, you may still want to include a bowel formula on a regular basis to keep your colon working well. LBSII (#990-1) is a good bowel formula that you can take daily, most people do well with 2 per day taken at dinner time.

Special Note: When working on a program to decrease the size of fibroid cysts do not take any weight loss products that increase metabolism or thyroid stimulating products. It is possible that such products may help to increase the rate of growth of the cyst as these products effect the energy and metabolism of all cells. If you are overweight, the cleansing program above will help to promote weight loss. You can take any of the following products for weight loss while on this cleansel: CLA, Hi-Lipase, Fat Grabbers, orSugar Reg.

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Filed Under: Women's health Tagged With: Fibroid Cysts, Women's health

Natural PMS Relief

May 3, 2009 By Val Greguire 2 Comments

It is estimated that 80% of women experience some type of premenstrual symptoms, for some it is a mild inconvenience, to others it destroys their personal lives. In order to find a natural treatment for PMS we need to realize that your symptoms are caused by imbalances in both hormones, and nutrients at some point in the monthly cycle. These symptoms differ in intensity and variety according to the nutrient and hormone imbalance a women suffers from. Choosing herbal and nutrtional supplements for PMS can be complicated. Hormone balance is tied into many factors such as diet, stress, and waste elimination. The following list, based on the categories developed by Dr. Guy Abraham, will help to categorize the different types of PMS. In the recommendations below, you will find a specific herbal formula that helps bring relief for each type of PMS. This is accomplished by using herb blends that help your body to natually balance itself. In addition, I recommend several other supplements that are needed by the body to balance hormones. these supplements have helped many women find natural PMS relief! For the best results, use the entire program initially. Then decrease the dose over time to find what works best for you.

pms relief

Type A (Anxiety):

Symptoms: Anxiety, Irritability, mood swings, and nervous tension

Cause: High Estrogen to Low progesterone ratio.

Supplements:

Female Comfort A combination of 8 herbs which supports and balances the female reproductive system. Over the years, I have found this to be the best formula for balancing female hormones on the market. I don’t think I have ever had anyone not get some benefits from it. Take 6 capsules per day during the first month, then reduce slowly each month to find the level that is right for you. Some women find they can just take the formula 10 days before the period is due

Nutri-Calm A high potency B-Complex vitamin formula, with added vitamin C to support stress. It is in a base of calming herbs to counteract the effects of stress and nourish the nervous system. Adequate B-vitamins are needed by the liver to help break down excess hormones each month.2 -3 per day

Magnesium 250 mg A lack of this mineral is tied into anxiety, irritability and mood swings. Magnesium helps to nourish the nervous system. Magnesium is depleted during times of stress, and with high intake of dairy foods and refined white sugar intake. 2 per day, for those who are prone to headaches and or constipation, 3 per day would be recommended.

Type C (Cravings):

Symptoms: Cravings for sweets, breads, pasta and chocolate, headaches, fatigue, low blood sugar

Cause: Low Prostaglandin, blood sugar imbalances

Supplements:

Evening Primrose Oil Evening primrose supplies fatty acids that help in the production of the prostaglandin PGE1. This substance helps to stop inflammation which is one of the triggers for headaches during the menstrual cycle. 2 per day.

Master Gland This product is a key product for the hormonal system. It supports the female system as well as the adrenals, thyroid, pituitary and hypothalamus. By doing this it helps to support blood sugar imbalances, stress, and slow metabolism, all of which are triggers to the many cravings associated with PMS. 2 capsules 3 times daily.

Magnesium 250mg This mineral helps to reduce cravings for chocolate, balances the moods, and reduces incidents of headaches. It also helps with fatigue by promoting a restful nights sleep, and energy production in the cell. 3 per day.

*Avoid salt, white sugar products, margarine and fried foods.

Type D (Depression):

Symptoms: Depression, crying, forgetfulness, confusion, and insomnia

Cause: Low estrogen to high progesterone ratio, elevated aldosterone

Supplements:

Female Comfort To balance hormone levels. 6 per day thru the first month, then each month there after, you can try reducing it by a pill or two until you find what level works best for you.

Magnesium250mg This mineral helps to balance the moods, and nourish the nervous system. It also helps with fatigue by promoting a restful nights sleep, and energy production in the cell. 2 per day.

Chinese Mood Elevator This is a wonderful formula which is a natural anti-depressant. It works to increase moods and a sense of well-being, as well as energy and vitality. 6 per day.

Type H (Hyper hydration):

Symptoms: Fluid retention, weight gain, abdominal bloating and discomfort, swollen hands and feet.

Cause: Elevated Aldosterone, insulin, and cortisol

Supplements:

If you are under high stress (good or bad) , or over the age of 35, it is likely that this bloating is being caused by too much cortisol and insulin being produced. It is likely that you have also experienced some weight gain around the mid-section as well. The continuous high stress, also elevates the aldosterone level which results in fluid retention.

Chinese Kidney Activator Because The hormone aldosterone is elevated, this results in sodium and water retention symptoms. This wonderful Chinese combination is a natural diuretic and works great at relieving excess water retention. 6 per day during symptoms.

Magnesium 250 mg Magnesium is depleted during times of stress. A lack of this mineral is tied into elevated aldosterone levels. 2 per day, all month long.

B-Complex The addition of a B-Complex will help control the excessive cortisol, insulin, and aldosterone levels. While the MasterGland formula mentioned above, also contains B-Vitamins, if you are under particularly high levels of stress than the addition of this formula will help even more. 3 per day.

* Avoid Caffeine and nicotine

* Eat more fresh vegetables to provide more potassium, but limit fruit to 2 per day, so as

To not raise sugar levels. Avoid white sugar and white flour products, eat whole grain foods instead.

* Drink 2 quarts water daily

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