A recent study by scientist at the University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, identified the molecular agent responsible for directing immune cells to develop the capability to produce allergic response. The molecular agent, called thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), is the culprit behind the development of allergic diseases such as asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and food allergy in human, said the researchers; but how might this occur?

Well, according to the researchers, dendritic cells, which are immune cells that initiate the primary immune response, play a very important role in the allergic response mechanism. When dendritic cells come into contact with other immune cells known as T cells, they cause T cells to develop into different categories, such as helper 1 (Th1) and helper 2 (Th2) cells, the researchers said. These categories of T-cells are responsible for initiating protective immune responses, but the Th2 cell can also initiate an allergic response on its own according to the study. It was never known before how dendritic cells communicated with regular T cells for them to become Th2 cells according to the researchers.

The blood of healthy donors was used by the investigators to isolate dendritic cells, (University of Texas). It was discovered by the scientists that the binding of TSLP to these cells activate a distinct set of signaling pathways within the cells. A direct result of this pathway is the production of messenger molecules by the dendritic cells that act on T cells, causing T cells to develop into Th2 cells, (University of Texas).

Therefore, the study identifies TSLP as a molecular switch that initiates the development of allergic responses in people, which suggest that this molecule could be a target to effectively treat or prevent allergic diseases, like those mentioned above in the future.

Medicines could possibly be developed to block the actions of TSLP. Not only that, understanding the functions of such a molecule could one day set the stage for the development of a medicinal agents that could possibly reverse the allergic response in people.

There are millions of people worldwide who suffer from diseases associated with the body’s allergic response, (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)). Asthma is one of those diseases. It is the most common of all the chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, (Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine: January 2008 – Volume 14 – Issue 1 – p 3-8).

Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the lungs causing the airways or bronchi to become narrowed, (AAFA). This interns causes difficulty breathing, (AAFA). Current asthma medications target the inflammation and airway-narrowing problems of the lung. This is however, a temporary fix for a chronic problem. Medications or vaccines developed to target the TSLP molecule on the other hand could be a tremendous step forward in the cure or effective treatment of asthma.

Eczema is an inflammatory process occurring superficially, (Dorland’s Medical Dictionary (DMD)). It involves primarily the epidermis, (DMD). Eczema is characterized by redness, itching, minute papules and vesicles, weeping, oozing, and crusting, and later by scaling, and often pigmentation, (DMD). This characterization of symptoms is a common allergic reaction in children, and in adults, (DMD). In fact, it may occur in adults more severely than in children, (DMD). Eczema in children often begins in infancy, with rash appearing on the face, neck, elbows, and knees, (DMD). In some patients, it may disappear by itself when the food that is triggering the allergic reaction is removed from the diet, or it may become more extensive-covering the entire body, (DMD). In severe cases, skin infection can develop, (DMD).

A food allergy is characterized by an overreaction of the immune system to a protein substance or allergen that is eaten, breathed in, injected, or touched, (AAFA). Such immune overreaction can results in coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, or scratchy throat, (AAFA). In more severe cases it can result in rashes, hives, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and even death, (AAFA).

There is currently no cure for allergies, (AAFA); but with the isolation of the molecular agent TSLP that is responsible for causing allergies, a cure is possible. At the present time, allergies can only be managed with proper prevention and treatment, (AAFA).

Allergies are present in individuals who are genetically predisposed to develop the allergy, (AAFA). For example, if one parent has an allergy of any type, there is a 1 out of 3 chance that a child will have the allergy, (AAFA). While on the other hand, if both parents have the allergy, there is a 7 out of 10 chance that their offspring will have the allergy, (AAFA). There is an increase in Americans suffering from allergies, (AAFA). In fact, it is the most overlooked disease in America, (AAFA). It is not even perceived as a disease by some!

Here we can see that all the complications mentioned are allergy-related. Asthma is an allergy just the same as eczema. This is why the breakthrough in the TSLP study is welcomed news for many people suffering from allergy-related diseases.

We will soon be able to effectively cure asthma, eczema, and food allergies as a result of knowledge gained from isolating the molecular switching agent TSLP. It won´t be long before a vaccination or curative method is developed to combat those allergic diseases.

Glenford S Robinson is a Clinical Lab Scientist, Expert Author, and president of Mstardom.com. Submit your news articles and promotional blogs to Mstardom.com, and your promotional blog and news articles will be read by hundreds of thousands of readers around the globe.

Ayurveda, the Indian stream of medical sciences, is considered to be gifted to people by God himself. Earlier restricted to the ancient scriptures, the science is now being researched upon to find cures to several ailments that afflict people. Ayurvedic essential oils are the pure essences of several herbs and plants that have been identified with medicinal qualities.

Ayurvedic treatment differs from the conventional cures in the sense that it aims at curing the sick rather than the sickness. It is considered that the person as a whole must be treated if one wants to find a potent cure of the sickness. The ayurvedic essential oils help a lot in healing the person from inside.

The herbs and plants used to prepare ayurvedic essential oils are mostly of Indian origin. The ancient scriptures have a mention of the qualities of each of the herb. Moreover, one can find the method of preparing the ayurvedic essential oils to keep the essence of herb intact.

The natural state of the body is considered at equilibrium. A healthy person enjoys equilibrium, wherein doshas, agni (digestive fire), dhatus (tissues), normal functioning of mala (waste products), cheerful state of atman (soul), sensory organs and mind are working well.

Doshas find a special mention in the ayurvedic studies. There are three types of doshas or faults within the body- vata, pitta, and kapha. When the functioning of these three doshas is impaired, then human body takes up diseases.

Vata is identified with the cosmic element of air and ether, which regulates all types of movements. The person with a vata nature is likely to be ill with diseases of the neurological system, particularly the motor functions. Elderly people are more likely to have vata disorders. For the correction of vata dosha, ayurvedic essential oils will be very helpful. The ayurvedic essential oils used will be moist, calming, and warm to successfully cure the disorder. Some of the important essential oils used to treat vata imbalances are bergamont, orange, sandalwood, turmeric, frankincence, vetivert, camphor oils etc. Essential oils clear blocked passages of the body. They are also beneficial to prevent dryness of skin and loss of water in the body tissues.

Another dosha is of the pitta type. Agni or heat forms the primary constituent of pitta. Maintaining body heat is the primary responsibility of pitta. Hence, Pitta is responsible for metabolic process in the organ and tissue systems, in addition to the cellular metabolism. One can identify persons of the pitta type by their sharpness, prompt action and their intellectual capacity. Diseases of the digestive and metabolic systems largely affect the pitta type people, which is visible more during the middle ages. Ayurvedic essential oils that help in treating pitta disorders must have a cooling effect to let excessive heat out of the body. The essential ayurvedic oil must be essentially dry. The ayurvedic essential oils that best suit this type of imbalances are sandalwood, jasmine, lavender, neroli, tea tree oils.

The last type of dosha is kapha. Kapha is made up of earth and water. The body form and structure, inclusive of fluids, fats, muscles, bones etc. come under kapha. Respiratory system is more prone to kapha imbalances, which results into phlegmatic disorders. Such disorders are mostly visible in the children who may complain of chest pain or problems in breathing. Ayurvedic essential oils help healing these disorders. The essential ayurvedic oils used to treat kapha disorders will be opposite to the ones used in pitta disorders. This is because kapha has cold qualities unlike pitta, which is concerned with heat. Therefore, the ayurvedic oils will be light, warm and dry.

Ayurveda aspire to bring the person back to its normal natural state, by facilitating healing from inside. Ayurvedic essential oils further this object of ayurveda by using the pure essence of herbs and plants.

About the Author: Bryan Josling is working with the Horticultural Research Station in Adelaide. He has also been involved with research on plants. To find Aromatherapy essential oils, essential massage oils, essential oils wholesale visit http://www.ndaroma.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=39841&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

When anxiety and panic attacks begin to spiral out of control, it is necessary to seek outside help. There is a wide variety of natural remedies, including anxiety supplements, which can help control both the mental and emotional effects.

Suddenly your heart starts to race, you’re sweating, you can’t seem to fill up your lungs with air, and you’re lightheaded. You’re in the middle of a panic attack, and like many people, you probably can’t even identify what triggered the episode. Panic attacks can happen suddenly and can be very alarming. Normally panic attacks accompany feelings of anxiety which are often characterized by extreme dread, obsessive thoughts, intense fear, and stress.

Most people feel anxiety at some point in their lives. It is normal to feel fear before taking an exam, making a speech, or during other stressful experiences; however, some people may find themselves having frequent panic attacks or intense anxiousness that spirals beyond their control. In turn, these feelings, both physical and emotional, can begin to affect their work, family, and general well-being. When anxiety gets to this point, it is important for your mental and physical health to seek outside assistance.

Therapy is a viable and popular option that can provide coping skills to deal with such problems. There are also prescription medications that can provide relief for extreme cases. Many people also find that supplements or vitamins can also help keep panic attacks and other feelings in control. These are especially useful for those who prefer a natural remedy or have experienced negative side effects from more powerful prescription drugs.

Vitamin B complex formulas are useful anxiety supplements that can help calm the mind and ease stress when taken regularly. People with such disorders are often lacking in vitamin B, by adding this to the diet it can help quell some of the feelings associated with the problem. Other popular supplements include natural options such as St. John’s Wort, kava kava, passionflower, magnesium, and calcium.

There are many available natural options, so it may take some experimenting and trial and error to find a combination and dosage that works best for you. In addition to any specific supplements taken, it is recommended to regularly take a multi-vitamin. Before taking any supplement or beginning a new vitamin regime, it is important to consult with a qualified doctor to ensure that you are using them correctly and safely. You also want to make sure they won’t react with medications you may already be taking.

Anxiety supplements often work best when combined with other relaxation techniques to improve overall health as well as address panic issues. Regular exercise, especially aerobic, is essential to help control stress as well as keep the body healthy. Other people have found that yoga, meditation, and setting aside some personal relaxation time are the key to controlling stress. Simple steps like these can do wonders to one’s stress level.

If you’re interested in more natural remedies and anxiety vitamins, consult with your doctor about what is available. Some vitamin and health stores won’t have your best interest in mind and won’t understand your individual case. Consulting with a professional will help ensure that you choose the right products and dosage amounts. When taken correctly, natural remedies can help you ease your anxiety and feel better.

About the Author: When combined with a nutritious diet and active lifestyle, anxiety supplements can create calm and mental relaxation without the side-effects of prescription medication. To learn how adequate nutrition, balance and supplements can help you maintain optimal health, visit http://www.goodelements.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=379173&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Don’t tell me that anyone has escaped from the clutches of from flu or cold in his entire life span. There are few aliments that keeping nagging us every alternate day and its natural to suffer such aliments. If I were to ask anyone of you of the number of times you have had flu or cold you wouldn’t be able to recall and frankly neither would I be able to do that. When the flu or cold catches us we on doctor’s prescription to get relief consume Antihistamines. It does do the job of let us breathe freely, free the nose of congestion and reduce sinus aching, but these medicines are a temporary relief and have their share of side effects. If you want to get rid of side effects, the best herb solution would be antihistamine herb. There are numerous unnoticed herbs that are a far better option for instance pau’d arco, catnip, Chinese licorice root, cat’s claw extract, astragalus, maitake mushroom, boneset, white willow bark and mullein leaf. Here below we also list for your benefits some home remedies that are natural and effective

LAPACHO OR PAU D’ ARCO

The herb Pau d’arco or Lapacho helps boost immune. Its contents are best suited to fight viruses. Pau d’ arco can have magical effects as it can be effective from an inconsequential thing such as cold to even the deadly HIV virus, its effectiveness has also be shown against limiting the growth of many poisonous bacteria and viruses.

VINEGAR OF APPLE CIDER: Quite easy to locate and also very effective in times of need. Its application has spread over centuries. It can cure allergies, flu, arthritis, gout, weight-loss, colds, sinus infections and even more, what more could you ask of it? When mixed with water in same quantity it can be of help in antihistamine properties. Put the mixture in a pan, after the mixture heats up place your nose over the pan to inhale rising fumes. Ensure that you are at a safe gap to avoid getting burnt.

LEMON: One of the most natural fruits that help gives stability to our immune system & is also an antihistamine. Take some water and pour honey and lemon drops, the mixture will reduce the cold duration and help in better healing. Lemon help get rid of the entire range of cold as well as fever. Lemon has abundance of Vitamin C, its juice has many advantages like reducing illness period, body resistance raise and decreases toxicity.

GOURD ROOTS: During ancient times the Asians, Greeks and Chinese used the sour roots of gourd plant when ever they wanted relief from cold. A small dose of root paste, added into a similar quantity of Tulsi plant leaf or honey does the trick to eradicate cold.

TURMERIC: To boost or energize oneself turmeric does the job perfectly. Very long ago its application was limited to herbal formulas but today it has entered kitchens as well. Asians and especially South Asian have it in almost all preparations. It boosts the immunity & is an even more effective while being used for negating colds taken with some salt.

PEPPER & TAMARIND: Mix 50mg of tamarind in glass of water holding 250 ml. Heat diluted tamarind that’s now solvent in water for a couple of minutes by adding little butter and also ½ teaspoon of grinding black pepper . The result will be the clearing up of blocked nose and sinus.

About the Author: Discover the natural herbs for memory and infertility natural herbs when you visit Dr Sakura’s herbal resource site at http://www.naturalherbshealing.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=243247&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

Aromatherapy is the practice of using the scents of various plant extracts to assist in healing the mind, body, and soul. The use of aromatherapy dates back over 5,000 years and has recently been rediscovered as a method of holistic healing.

The most famous Egyptian technique using aromatherapy was embalming. However evidence exists to show that aromatherapy was also used in cosmetic and medicinal applications. During the same time, records from China indicate that hundreds of plants were identified to exude healing aromatic properties. Ayurvedic medicine, which spans the history of India, has always incorporated aromatherapy into its healing methods and spiritual practices.

The ancient Greeks were quick to adopt aromatherapy from Egypt and began using olive oil as a base. Romans learned these methods from Greece and were soon using scented oils in their famous baths. Although Native Americans and other native cultures around the world continued to utilize the effects of plant extracts, after the fall of the Roman Empire the recorded information on aromatherapy was lost and Western Civilization would have to re-learn everything. (Not one of the most efficient cultures, eh?)

It took the scourge of the plague during the Middle Ages to begin to rekindle an interest in this ancient technique. It was discovered then that certain plant extracts seemed to prevent the spread of infection and assist in decontaminating a house after its occupants had been afflicted.

A Persian philosopher, Avicenna (980 AD – 1037AD), is responsible for the reintroduction of aromatherapy. Once a method of distillation was discovered by the Arabs, it didn’t take long for the unfortunate Crusades to bring these methods back to Europe.

Very slow to catch on, it took until the 19th century before Europe and Great Britain spent any meaningful time studying the effectiveness of aromatherapy on humans. (I imagine we were finding other uses for the Arabic distillation process.) Finally, after a French chemist, Rene Maurice Gattefosse, burned his hand and healed it with some lavender oil he wrote a book on the antimicrobial properties of certain essential oils. Thus, aromatherapy as we know it today was born…again.

If it weren’t for Dr. Gattefosse and his burnt hand, we may not have such an overwhelming olfactory experience as we walk through a shopping mall. Most of the perfumes, candles, lotions, bath salts, etc. that we use today are centered on the fundamentals of aromatherapy. After all, we don’t really want to smell some of those ingredients listed on our favorite body lotion do we? However if we take this a step forward and learn how to best utilize the immense power of plant extracts we very well might spend less time at the doctor’s office and more time, well…shopping for bubble bath!

The sense of smell is a very powerful one. The average human can distinguish over 10,000 distinct odors and people who lose their sense of smell often suffer from depression and anxiety. It is believed that smell is processed in the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls moods, memory, emotion, and learning. When a person’s brain waves are monitored, it has been discovered that smelling lavender increases alpha waves in the back of the brain which are associated with relaxation while jasmine stimulates beta waves in the front of the brain and are linked to stimulation and alertness.

Further studies have allowed scientists to break down these scents in the following functional groups:

Monoterpenes: anti-viral, antiseptic, bactericidal, and can be highly irritating to the skin. Examples: lemon, pine, frankincense

Esters: fungicidal, sedating, and very aromatically pleasing. Examples: bergamot, Clary sage, lavender

Aldehydes: sedating and antiseptic. Examples: melissa, lemongrass, cirtronella

Ketones: ease congestion, aid flow of mucus, can be toxic. Examples: fennel, hyssop, sage

Alcohols: very antiseptic, anti-viral with uplifting qualities. Examples: rosewood, geranium, rose

Phenols: bactericidal and strongly stimulating, can be highly irritating to the skin. Examples: clove, thyme, oregano

Oxides: expectorant and bactericidal. Examples: rosemary, tea tree

Essential oils are quite different from fatty oils (e.g. almond oil or sesame oil). Essential oils are volatile and will evaporate quite quickly when exposed to air. Essential oils are soluble in fatty oils allowing the fatty oils to act as a carrier or base for the essential oils. This is very useful when using an essential oil topically which may be irritating at full strength. Dissolving into a fatty oil dilutes the irritant while allowing the healing properties to be easily absorbed into the skin.

A safer and more gentle alternative to rare essential oils are hydrosols. These hydrosols are a by-product of the distillation process and contain the same therapeutic properties of the essential oils but in much smaller amounts. Hydrosols are also much less expensive and can easily be used in a mister or spritzers.

Please remember the following safety precautions:

- Never ingest essential oils

- Never allow essential oils to come in contact with the eyes

- Take care when using candle-lit diffusers

- Some essential oils are irritants or present other hazards. Research the use of any essential oil prior to implementation

Here’s a list of uses for essential oils:

Bath: fill the tub with bath water. Add 9-10 drops of essential oil into the bath water, mix before getting into bath. Or add 9-10 drops of essential oil to one teaspoon of carrier oil, such as jojoba oil and add & mix into the bath water so the essential oil is soluble in the carrier oil before adding to the bath.

Liquid Soap: add about 30-45 drops of essential oil to 8 ounces of unscented liquid hand soap or unscented liquid shower body wash. Shake vigorously.

Body Oil: add about 12-15 drops of essential oil to one ounce of carrier oil, such as jojoba oil and shake to blend.

Body Lotion: add 50-60 drops of essential oil to 16 ounces of unscented body lotion. Stir with a spoon or stirring stick to blend the essential oil into the lotion until smooth.

Body Mist: add 10-15 drops of essential oil to a 1 ounce glass misting bottle filled with spring or distilled water. Shake well and shake before each mist.

Liniment: add 25-20 drops of essential oil to one ounce of carrier oil, such as jojoba oil. Shake well to blend.

Compress: add & mix 3-5 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm or cool water. Soak a wash cloth, wring and apply.

Shampoo/Conditioner: add 12-15 drops of essential oil to one ounce of unscented or mild shampoo and conditioner. Shake well to blend.

Hair Brush: place three drops of essential oil into the palm of your hand; rub over the natural bristles of a hair brush. Brush your scalp and your hair.

Diffuser: add essential oils to an electric diffuser, candle burner or a lamp ring.

Room Mist: add 17-20 drops of essential oil to a 1 ounce glass misting bottle filled with spring or distilled water. Shake well and shake before each mist.

Scent: add five drops of an essential oil to a hanky or tissue and carry with you throughout the day. Or place under your pillow case to ease you into sleep.

Scent: add five drops to a cotton ball and place in drawers and linen closets.

Place: a drop of essential oil in the palm of your hand, rub your hands together and inhale.

About the Author: Jennifer Bones is a long time practitioner of the Nature / Pagan religion. Her writings span from spiritual fiction to historic studies of women’s issues. She is owner and manager of her current website, http://goddessgiftshop.com.

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=64379&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

About Flower Essence Therapy

Use of flower essences is an extremely safe therapy for shifting emotional states which may be causing or perpetuating outward physiological illness. Developed by homeopath, naturopath, and allopath Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930’s, these liquid preparations are intended to work in subtle ways on one’s emotional/spiritual energetic patterns. Through repeated dosage, essences have helped individuals release ‘negative’ emotions or fears, and support transformation to higher states of health and wellness.

While a few ‘formal’ methods are given, there are no hard-and-fast rules for the use of flower essences. It can be best to begin with one of the ‘commonly’ prescribed methods, and explore creative ways to incorporate the flowers into your life as you see fit. Flower essence therapy has a certain flexibility, and will likely be most effective when used in a way that feels right in your life. Here are a few guidelines to take into consideration:

Frequency of Use

Most flower essences can be used directly from the ’stock’ bottle (the dilution level at which essences are most often sold). A typical usage schedule is four drops directly in the mouth (or added to a glass of water), four times daily. Because of the particularly dynamic nature of daily awakening and retiring, the most important times may be immediately upon waking, and just before going to sleep. The other two times may be before lunch and upon arriving home at the end of a workday – whatever times might best suit your daily rhythms. Some folks apply essences to their heart chakra, pulse points on their wrists, or on their forehead; essences can be dropped in a bath or added to a spray bottle and sprayed about a room or house (more about further dilution in a minute). Sixteen drops can also be added to a water bottle and taken throughout the day – this is a very effective method for those with a busy schedule who otherwise may forget to take their essences.

Duration of Use

Because flower essences work on an emotional level, sometimes described as the ’soul level’, it is important to remember that changes may best be made gradually. Flower essence therapy has been most successful when the essences are taken regularly, most often for the period of about 1 month, for changes in ‘core’ emotional issues to be seen. Some essences, like Rescue Remedy, are blended to have an effect regarding a recent (minutes, hours, days) traumatic event. Yarrow Environmental Solution by Flower Essence Services was created to offer protection from our modern environment on a daily basis, while not necessarily addressing personal emotional situations. Still other essences, like ‘Impatiens’ – used to calm an impatient aspect of personality – works fairly quickly in some cases. One user regularly felt the effect within 10 minutes while the impatience was still a significant part of his personality, with the entire personality aspect being slowly washed away after long-term use. So, in most instances, if trying to clear or change some significant part of your soul makeup, try at least a few weeks of regular use.

Dilution and Blending

Flower Essences can be further diluted from the ’stock bottle’ (the ‘dilution level’ available on this site) to a ‘dosage bottle’ for regular use. One can add 1 or more droppersful from the stock bottle to a clean 1 ounce (30ml) dropper bottle and fill the rest with spring water (optimally) or other clean water source. Blends can also be made this way, adding 1 or more droppersful from each flower essence to the 1 ounce dropper bottle, filling the rest with spring water. The receiving bottle should either be new, or boiled in water to remove old residue – because of the nature of flower essences, they can pick up etheric vibration left over. Also, whenever using flower essences from the stock bottle, be conscious of not touching the dropper tip to anything – your tongue, hands, another bottle, etc. – to help maintain the vibrational purity of the flower essence.

Dilution Effects

Dilution of the essences will have different effects for different; Some do not find the effect as pronounced with a dilution from the stock level, while others find the effect just as significant. Dilution is usually best, however, for children – either from a dosage bottle or from the stock bottle into a glass of water (this can also be good for alcohol-sensitive persons, because of the small amount of brandy in every drop). If you chose not to dilute and are making a blend, simply add equal amounts of each essence to a clean dropper bottle and use from there (unless you intend to have more of one essence than another).

Misting Your Environment

Misting your environment is also an effective means to surround yourself with the energies of your essences. To use as a spray to mist your home, office, or other environment, a dilution in spring water is best. Also, glass bottles are preferred over plastic, as almost every type of plastic has been shown to release at least a little residue into the water.

Pets and Plants

Animals and pets respond wonderfully to flower essences, perhaps because of their lack of expectations or any ‘resistance’ to being healed. If giving flower essences to pets, it’s usually easiest to add drops, perhaps 4 per day, to their water bowl. Success has also been noted with misting growing plants – particularly with Rescue Remedy when transplanting or repotting.

Other Resources

This is in no way intended to be an exhaustive description of ways to use flower essences. Many fine books are available both on the Bach essences (those flowers originally described by Dr. Edward Bach) and the many other flower species now available in remedy form. The ‘Flower Essence Repertory’ from Flower Essence Services is a fantastic guide to essence selection and use, with in-depth flower descriptions and a reference of primary emotional conditions and useful remedies. Experimentation with flower essences is encouraged, for as you begin to use them, their place in the dynamics of your personal healing journey will unfold.

About the Author: Misty Rae Cech, ND, is a naturopath and yoga teacher practicing in Boulder, Colorado. She regularly employs flower essences with her clients, finding them a gentle yet effective means of giving momentum to the healing process. More resources many be found on her website, Ananda Apothecary, at http://www.anandaapothecary.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=12462&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies

Borage is otherwise called the starflower, and the borage oil extracted from its seeds is very rich in GLA, gamma linolenic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid also obtainable from evening primrose oil. Borage, however, is richer in GLA, and is therefore a more economical source that the evening primrose.

A shrub, frequently seen in gardens, borage has historically been used as a salad food, and also in soups, and borage honey is prized in many quarters. Now, however, its main use is for the GLA extracted from the seed, which provides a higher yield of GLA than any other source. Borage seed oil contains up to 25% GLA, compared to the 17% from blackcurrant oil and 9% from evening primrose oil.

The importance of GLA to the body’s biochemistry is inestimable, and cannot be overstated. It is not so much the GLA that is so important, but the prostaglandin to which it is converted in the body. Prostaglandin E1 is a hormone-like substance that plays a part in many of the biochemical and metabolic processes of the body. Examples include the control of the immune system and inflammatory response, some kidney functions, and the tone of the arterial muscles, so important in the health of the cardiovascular system.

A good fatty acid metabolism benefits some very important aspects of our health such as maintaining a good blood pressure, low cholesterol levels, preventing inflammatory and immune system conditions such as arthritis, allergies and some skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis, and also improving the strength of the keratin-dependent tissues such as our nails and hair.

A deficiency in essential fatty acids also seems to stimulate the overproduction of a hormone in women called prolactin that can lead to the severe mood changes commonly referred to as pre-menstrual syndrome, or PMS. GLA appears to have a beneficial effect in the treatment of PMS, and some other conditions such as breast discomfort.

Gamma linolenic acid is created in the body from linoleic acid, of which there is a plentiful supply in margarine, vegetable oils and many processed foods, but there is a problem. Fatty acid molecules come in different isomeric forms, in which although the chemical is the same, the geometry or ‘stereochemistry’ is different. The healthy form is the ‘cis’ formation, and the other is the ‘trans’ stereoisomer. The trans fatty acids are formed by hydrogenation of oils to make them semi-solid, and more suitable for spreading. This hydrogenation process causes an irreversible change in the geometry of the fatty acid that can block the conversion of linoleic acid to GLA in the body.

Hence, although most of the western population has more than sufficient linoleic acid in their diets, many who eat an excess of trans fats have a deficiency of GLA. Some B vitamin deficiencies and a deficiency in certain minerals exacerbate this situation, and a gamma linolenic acid supplement is needed. Additional to this, the enzyme responsible for the conversion, delta-6-desaturase (D6D) can be affected by many modern environmental factors such as smoking, stress, alcohol, excessive animal fat consumption and even excessive linoleic acid consumption. The solution to all of this is GLA which does not require any enzymes for its creation, and supplemental GLA from any source can immediately take part in the biochemical pathway to the creation of the prostaglandin eicosanoids.

GLA provides the means and the resultant prostaglandins carry out the job of regulating the hormonal activity within human biochemistry. Prostaglandins help to regulate the function of many of the cells in the body, such as the smooth muscle cells of the arteries and veins that cause constriction or dilation, and on the stickiness of blood platelets causing their aggregation. They are important in the regulation of such functions as blood clotting, fluid balance and the production and balance of hormones. The anti-inflammatory properties of prostaglandin E1 are very important to the way that the body reacts to breaches by foreign invaders, and it is also thought to act to thin the blood and cause dilation of blood vessels, hence its effect in lowering the blood pressure.

So what does this mean to you, apart from the effects of the fatty acid on PMS? Borage oil can be used to treat a large number of different symptoms associated with a shortage of GLA and prostaglandin E1, and here are a few of the conditions for which a GLA supplement has been found beneficial.

A deficiency in GLA and other essential fatty acids can lead to loss of bone mass and subsequent osteoporosis and it is thought that fatty acids help the absorption of calcium by the digestive system, and to increase its deposit in bones. It can be used to increase bone mass and density and therefore strengthen the bones of those affected by osteoporosis. This is partially due to the hormone regulatory effect GLA has on the body.

Allergies appear to be very personal responses by the immune system to specific substances, and while borage oil has proved beneficial in a few allergies, and prostaglandins are known to regulate the activity of the immune response, the effectiveness of GLA treatment for allergies has been mixed. There is evidence that it can affect some cases, but not most.

GLA from borage oil can reduce the swelling and pain of rheumatoid arthritis, and helps to ease morning stiffness. Its effectiveness seems mixed, and you should try it for two or three months to determine if it helps you personally. Be careful, however, since some believe that it might react with some of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) used to treat this condition. Ibuprofen is one, so check with your physician before trying it.

If you suffer from high blood pressure, borage oil used in conjunction with Omega-3 fish oils might lower it, though more research is needed. There is a belief that the GLA is not the active agent here since Omega-3 oils are known to help to reduce hypertension, though the effect of prostaglandins on the factors that can reduce blood pressure is inarguable.

The healing power of borage oil should not be underestimated, and it has been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat many conditions, especially those that science has found to be caused by the immune system and the inflammatory response. Borage oil can be found at any Health Food Store.

About the Author: Looking for a Borage Oil GLA supplement for PMS or Headaches? Look no further, VitaNet, LLC Health Food Store carries high potency GLA and other great supplements. http://vitanetonline.com/

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=202300&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

The word ‘Qigong’ is made up of the two words ‘Qi’ (meaning breath or gas in Mandarin) and ‘Gong’ (meaning technique or work). Thus Qigong basically means ‘breath work’. Qigong, therefore, is a technique of traditional Chinese medicine involving the regulation and coordination of breathing patterns to ensure good health.

Qigong is believed to be the result of decades of struggle by the Chinese people for survival.

It was noticed that certain breathing techniques used in conjunction with mental concentration greatly improved bodily functions. Qigong has also borrowed heavily from Taoism and Buddhism. Thus religion and spirituality plays a very important role in Qigong techniques. Some forms of Qigong even believe that an individual can attain higher levels of accomplishment only if he is very virtuous.

Traditional Chinese medicine operates on a simple but effective premise – that of ‘Chi’. Chi is the energy or life force that travels through the human body and suffuses all our organs with health and well being. When this flow is blocked or disturbed, there is a disturbance within the system that manifests itself as a disease. According to tradition, all that a doctor has to do to restore good health is to analyze the reasons for the block and to take measures to facilitate the free flow of energy once again.

Qigong teaches an individual to live in such a way that the free flow of energy happens always, so that he is free from diseases. As the two words indicate, Qigong deals with the manipulation of breath to achieve and maintain robust health. This art has found a strong role in the martial arts of ancient China where people had to mobilize energy and stamina in coordination with the physical act of breathing.

This Chinese healing art is an effective form of alternative medicine that uses a series of gentle focused exercises to coordinate the mind and the body. It is believed that most people use only a small portion of the energy within them. Most people get sick because they do not breathe properly. These two facts have been juxtaposed in Qigong, where proper breathing helps bring good health. As such, Qigong is mostly taught for health maintenance purposes. But rarely the doctor also uses Qigong for therapeutic purposes.

In the modern world, millions of people all around the world practice Qigong for maintaining their good health. Qigong and other related arts are still associated with meditation and martial arts. But as opposed to the past, these people are no longer the sole custodians of the intricate techniques involved in Qigong. These techniques have become so popular now that medical Qigong has been officially recognized as a medical technique in China.

The practice of Qigong began nearly 5,000 years ago. Today there are almost 3,000 forms of Qigong. Tai Chi is just one of the more popular forms.

Western medicine accepts that Qigong can improve the overall health and vitality of a person. But the religious connotations that are lying just below the surface have often proved to be a matter of controversy. But there are no two opinions regarding the level of effectiveness of this practice.

About the Author: Alternative Holistic Medicine

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=71082&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

All of us are in need of healing. Perhaps we are mourning the loss of a relationship, or the loss of a loved one (animal or human). Or the loss of our health. Or the loss of a job, or status. Or the loss of a belief, or trust, or faith. Or peace of mind. Any loss will put us in a state of uneasiness or dis-ease.

Dis-ease as the name says is the lack of ease or the absence of well-being, to be more accurate. When we lose our well-being, in any which form it comes, physically, emotionally, psychologically, or spiritually, we grieve. There is loss and we grieve this loss.

Here are the 10 biggest mistakes that sabotage our healing from whatever dis-ease we may be having in life.

1. We don’t acknowledge we are in need of healing

Except for when things are really bad, as with a physical disease that may or may not be fatal, many times, we are not even aware that we need healing. We become the notorious “walking-wounded” hurting everyone else we meet.

2. We don’t take time for ourselves

We pretend that nothing has happened or we suppress our hurt and live life as if nothing happened. We don’t acknowledge that we need time out to recoup and make a plan of action.

3. We don’t make a plan

When we are aware that we need healing, we seek and follow the advice of others and many times we don’t even know exactly what we need to do to feel better. We don’t write our objectives and we plan a strategy to reconnect with our perfection.

4. We don’t live in the present

We regret what we did in the past and become anxious about the future, creating greater stress for our mind and body. We forget to live in the present, not knowing that a good present will determine an outstanding future.

5. We don’t forgive

We hold eternal grudges about people, events, and circumstances, including ourselves, thus preventing peace of mind and freedom.

6. We think in the negative

Our mind chatters negativism, as usual, thus deepening our struggles. We don’t realize the importance of positive thinking to better our life.

7. We don’t shut the nay-sayers

Especially when we have critical or chronic illnesses, we keep hearing from other that we will never get well, and worse, that we will die, and we keep listening to them because we trust they know better than we do, which is a grave mistake.

8. We don’t do spiritual work

Just when we need to go deep into our spirituality, we forgo our evolutionary process and delve into the physicality of life. We pray for the wrong outcomes.

9. We don’t wish for perfection

We wish for everything but not for the perfection of the solution to our problems, thus creating even worse case scenarios for ourselves.

10. We don’t expect miracles

We forget that miracles happen every day and many times we give in just when it is our turn to manifest them. We give up hope.

What will you do to feel better?

About the Author: Come spend one hour in our free teleseminar, learn to feel better and get a free report. Sign up at http://www.rx4bliss.com/healingtelesminar.htm Dr. Maria Moratto helps you balance your life so that you can have more health, abundance, better relationships, and fun.

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=36100&ca=Self+Help

Osteopathy is a system of healthcare based on the belief that disease is the direct result of the relationship between physiological function and anatomical structure. In osteopathy, function and structure are interdependent. A healthy musculoskeletal system plays a pivotal role in recovery and disease prevention. ‘Structure governs function’ – this is the tenet of osteopathy. By structure, this means muscles, ligaments, bones, organs and fascia.

The credit for initiating this system of healing is given to Andrew Taylor Still, who started this treatment at the end of the American Civil War. According to Still, disease happens when the bones are out of place thus disrupting the flow of the blood or hampering the flow of nervous impulses. He therefore concluded that diseases can be cured by manipulating the bones, which in turn, helps to restore the flow.

This system has much in common with Chiropractic techniques where the correct alignment of bones is given the utmost emphasis. Originally Osteopathy used strictly manipulative techniques for correcting abnormalities. However, over the past years, Osteopathy has embraced all aspects of modern medicine including drugs and corrective surgery.

Doctors who practice Osteopathy know how important it is to have a proper and correct understanding of the exact position and correct function of each of the structure in the body. Those who practice Osteopathy look for abnormalities in the working relationship within and between the various structures. According to these physicians, the physical integrity of the entire musculoskeletal system is one of the most important factors that contribute to good health.

Osteopathy has a lot in common with orthodox medicine as well. However, Osteopathic doctors are not merely bone-specialists. Instead, they are grandmasters in the ‘biomechanics of the human machine’. The way in which they approach disease and carry out treatment is therefore completely different from orthodox medicine.

The holistic approach to healing aims to take advantage of the body’s ability to heal itself. Osteopaths believe that health, not disease, is the natural heritage of every living thing. They focus all their attention on tracing any changes in function that have taken place within the structures. Within certain limits, the human body, like every other organism, has the ability to repair and correct itself. If given enough ‘support’, it can create its own remedies. The ‘support’ to be given includes:

- A balanced diet

- Good circulation

- Positive attitude

- A pollution free environment.

This self-healing is the backbone and sustaining principle behind all the applications of Osteopathy. According to these doctors, disease basically originates from within the individual himself. So, their main focus is the patient and not the micro-organism that invades his body. If the disease has reached a stage where the micro-organism has changed the structure beyond the point of no-return, Osteopathy tries to help the person function as best as he can.

Osteopathy differs to chiropractors in that the therapist uses massage during a treatment session to help the muscles retain the memory of the manipulation done to the bones and hence restore the flow of nerve impulses through the body to promote healing.

Osteopathy relies on various techniques that are combined with postural, dietary and occupational advice. Counseling patients who are recovering from illness and injury and those who are under excruciating pain is also a very useful part of this healing technique. Osteopathy also allows the use of invasive therapies when all else fails.

About the Author: Alternative Holistic Medicine

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=70723&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet