Healthy Life

Abnormal Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia)

2009-12-15T23:54:00.000-08:00

Abnormal Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia)
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An irregular heartbeat is an arrhythmia (also called dysrhythmia). Heart rates can also be irregular. A normal heart rate is 50 to 100 beats per minute. Arrhythmias and abnormal heart rates don't necessarily occur together. Arrhythmias can occur with a normal heart rate, or with heart rates that are slow (called bradyarrhythmias -- less than 60 beats per minute). Arrhythmias can also occur with rapid heart rates (called tachyarrhythmias -- faster than 100 beats per minute). In the United States more than 850,000 people are hospitalized for an arrhythmia each year.
What Causes an Arrhythmia?

Arrhythmias may be caused by many different factors, including:

* Coronary artery disease.
* Electrolyte imbalances in your blood (such as sodium or potassium).
* Changes in your heart muscle.
* Injury from a heart attack.
* Healing process after heart surgery.

Irregular heart rhythms can also occur in "normal, healthy" hearts.
What Are the Types of Arrhythmias?

The types of arrhythmias include:

* Premature atrial contractions. These are early extra beats that originate in the atria (upper chambers of the heart). They are harmless and do not require treatment.
* Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). These are among the most common arrhythmias and occur in people with and without heart disease. This is the skipped heartbeat we all occasionally experience. In some people, it can be related to stress, too much caffeine or nicotine, or too much exercise. But sometimes, PVCs can be caused by heart disease or electrolyte imbalance. People who have a lot of PVCs, and/or symptoms associated with them, should be evaluated by a heart doctor. However, in most people, PVCs are usually harmless and rarely need treatment.
* Atrial fibrillation. AF is a very common irregular heart rhythm that causes the atria, the upper chambers of the heart to contract abnormally.
* Atrial flutter. This is an arrhythmia caused by one or more rapid circuits in the atrium. Atrial flutter is usually more organized and regular than atrial fibrillation. This arrhythmia occurs most often in people with heart disease, and in the first week after heart surgery. It often converts to atrial fibrillation.
* Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). A rapid heart rate, usually with a regular rhythm, originating from above the ventricles. PSVT begins and ends suddenly. There are two main types: accessory path tachycardias and AV nodal reentrant tachycardias (see below).
* Accessory pathway tachycardias. A rapid heart rate due to an extra abnormal pathway or connection between the atria and the ventricles. The impulses travel through the extra pathways as well as through the usual route. This allows the impulses to travel around the heart very quickly, causing the heart to beat unusually fast.
* AV nodal reentrant tachycardia. A rapid heart rate due to more than one pathway through the AV node. It can cause heart palpitations, fainting or heart failure. In many cases, it can be terminated using a simple maneuver performed by a trained HeartCare-Info professional, medications or a pacemaker.
* Ventricular tachycardia (V-tach). A rapid heart rhythm originating from the lower chambers (or ventricles) of the heart. The rapid rate prevents the heart from filling adequately with blood; therefore, less blood is able to pump through the body. This can be a serious arrhythmia, especially in people with heart disease, and may be associated with more symptoms. A heart doctor should evaluate this arrhythmia.
* Ventricular fibrillation. An erratic, disorganized firing of impulses from the ventricles. The ventricles quiver and are unable to contract or pump blood to the body. This is a HeartCare-Info emergency that must be treated with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation as soon as possible.
* Long QT syndrome. The QT interval is the area on the electrocardiogram (ECG) that represents the time it takes for the heart muscle to contract and then recover, or for the electrical impulse to fire impulses and then recharge. When the QT interval is longer than normal, it increases the risk for "torsade de pointes," a life-threatening form of ventricular tachycardia. Long QT syndrome is an inherited condition that can cause sudden death in young people. It can be treated with antiarrhythmic drugs, pacemaker, electrical cardioversion, defibrillation, implanted cardioverter/defibrillator or ablation therapy.
* Bradyarrhythmias. These are slow heart rhythms, which may arise from disease in the heart's electrical conduction system. Examples include sinus node dysfunction and heart block.
* Sinus node dysfunction. A slow heart rhythm due to an abnormal SA (sinus) node. Sinus node dysfunction is treated with a pacemaker.
* Heart block. A delay or complete block of the electrical impulse as it travels from the sinus node to the ventricles. The level of the block or delay may occur in the AV node or HIS-Purkinje system. The heart may beat irregularly and, often, more slowly. If serious, heart block is treated with a pacemaker.

What Are the Symptoms of Arrhythmias?

An arrhythmia can be silent and not cause any symptoms. A doctor can detect an irregular heartbeat during a physical exam by taking your pulse or through an electrocardiogram (ECG).

When symptoms occur, they may include:

* Palpitations (a feeling of skipped heart beats, fluttering or "flip-flops," or feeling that your heart is "running away").
* Pounding in your chest.
* Dizziness or feeling light-headed.
* Fainting.
* Shortness of breath.
* Chest discomfort.
* Weakness or fatigue (feeling very tired).

How Are Arrhythmias Diagnosed?

Tests used to diagnose an arrhythmia or determine its cause include:

* Electrocardiogram
* Holter monitor
* Event monitor
* Stress test
* Echocardiogram
* Cardiac catheterization
* Electrophysiology study (EPS)
* Head-up tilt table test

How Are Arrhythmias Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and seriousness of your arrhythmia. Some people with arrhythmias require no treatment. For others, treatments can include medication, making lifestyle changes and undergoing surgical procedures.
What Medications Are Used to Treat Arrhythmias?

A variety of drugs are available to treat arrhythmias. These include:

* Antiarrhythmic drugs. These drugs control heart-rate, and include beta-blockers.
* Anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy. These drugs reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke. These include warfarin (a "blood thinner") or aspirin.

Because everyone is different, it may take trials of several medications and doses to find the one that works best for you.
What Lifestyle Changes Should Be Made?

* If you notice that your irregular heart rhythm occurs more often with certain activities, you should avoid them.
* If you smoke, stop.
* Limit your intake of alcohol.
* Limit or stop using caffeine. Some people are sensitive to caffeine and may notice more symptoms when using caffeine products (such as tea, coffee, colas and some over-the-counter medications).
* Stay away from stimulants used in cough and cold medications. Some such medications contain ingredients that promote irregular heart rhythms. Read the label and ask your doctor or pharmacist what medication would be best for you.

What Is Electrical Cardioversion?

If drugs are not able to control a persistent irregular heart rhythm (such as atrial fibrillation), cardioversion may be required. After administration of a short-acting anesthesia, an electrical shock is delivered to your chest wall that synchronizes the heart and allows the normal rhythm to restart.
What Is a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a device that sends small electrical impulses to the heart muscle to maintain a suitable heart rate. Pacemakers primarily prevent the heart from beating too slowly. The pacemaker has a pulse generator (which houses the battery and a tiny computer) and leads (wires) that send impulses from the pulse generator to the heart muscle. Newer pacemakers have many sophisticated features that are designed to help manage arrhythmias and optimize heart-rate-related function as much as possible.
What Is an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)?

An ICD is a sophisticated device used primarily to treat ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation, two life-threatening heart rhythms. The ICD constantly monitors the heart rhythm. When it detects a very fast, abnormal heart rhythm, it delivers energy to the heart muscle to cause the heart to beat in a normal rhythm again. There are several ways the ICD can be used to restore normal heart rhythm. They include:

* Anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP). When the heart beats too fast, a series of small electrical impulses may be delivered to the heart muscle to restore a normal heart rate and rhythm.
* Cardioversion. A low energy shock may be delivered at the same time as the heart beats to restore normal heart rhythm.
* Defibrillation. When the heart is beating dangerously fast or irregularly, a higher energy shock may be delivered to the heart muscle to restore a normal rhythm.
* Anti-bradycardia pacing. Many ICDs provide back-up pacing to prevent too slow of a heart rhythm.
http://www.heartcare-info.com/abnormal-heart-rhythm.html

Heart Attack & Heart Failure at Heart Care Info

2009-12-15T23:49:00.000-08:00

Heart Attack & Heart Failure at Heart Care Info

There are numerous distinct disorders that relate to heart. These include arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis, angina, heart attack, and heart failure, arrhythmias, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, heart murmurs, rheumatic heart disease, valvular disease, mitral valve prolapse and high blood pressure or hypertension.

Like any muscle, the heart needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients that are carried to it by the blood in the coronary arteries. When the coronary arteries become narrowed or clogged and cannot supply enough blood to the heart, the result is coronary heart disease.

Coronary Heart Disease:
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The most common type of heart disease is coronary heart disease (CHD), also called coronary artery disease. It is the No. 1 killer in America, affecting more than 12 million Americans. Coronary heart disease develops when one or more of the coronary arteries that supply the blood to the heart become narrower than they used to be. This happens because of a buildup of cholesterol and other substances in the wall of the blood vessel, affecting the blood flow to the heart muscle.

Symptoms: The most common symptom is angina or "angina pectoris." Angina can be described as a discomfort, heaviness, pressure, aching, burning, fullness, squeezing or painful feeling. Other sypmtoms are shortness of breath, faster heartbeat, sweating.
Angina Pectoris:

Angina is chest pain caused by coronary heart disease, a partial blockage of the coronary arteries. It occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get as much blood (hence as much oxygen) as it needs. This usually happens because one or more of the heart's arteries is narrowed or blocked. Insufficient blood supply is called ischemia.

Symptoms: Some risk factors for developing angina are male sex, family history of angina, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and stress.
Heart Attack:

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when a coronary artery abruptly fails to deliver blood to a part of your heart. Coronary arteries are the blood vessels on the surface of your heart. They bring oxygen and nutrients to your heart muscle (myocardium). The reduction or stoppage happens when one or more of the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle is blocked. This is usually caused by the buildup of plaque (deposits of fat-like substances), a process called atherosclerosis

Symptoms: Symptoms of a heart attack include: Discomfort, pressure, heaviness, or pain in the chest, arm or below the breastbone, Rapid or irregular heartbeats, Difficulty breathing, Nausea, vomiting, Dizziness, weakness.

http://www.heartcare-info.com/

Hair Removal

2009-08-29T06:02:00.001-07:00

Hair removal

Every single human being has to face the hair removal process from time to time. While it's just simple routine for some, others have to cope with a number of problems while dealing with it. No matter to which of the above you belong, you can always improve your skills in hair removal.

Hair removal may be classified by different criterions, for example, location (facial, body, bikini), removal type (waxing, shaving, plucking) or by type of hair (vellum or terminal). Knowing what type of hair you will be removing will help you choose the way of performing the procedure.

Vellum hair is soft, fine and short. This type of hair usually appears on women back, chest or face and they are so small that the removal is only optional, unless you have a darker complexion, which can make them more visible. Terminal hair is coarser, darker and longer. It's the hair that grows on your head, legs, armpits and bikini zone.

Laser hair removal, plucking or waxing is the most recommended methods for vellum hair removal. It might be more painful, but the effect will last longer and hair won't get thicker (the effect shaving causes).

Terminal hair can be removed by using such methods as shaving, plucking, depilatories, waxing, electrolysis, laser and prescription treatment. The choice of methods depends on your ability to deal with pain, area you want to clean and your financial capabilities.

Shaving is cheap and won't cause you any pain. Yet the effect won't last so long (1 to 3 days) and you'll have to do it again and again. It is very comfortable in a way that you do not have to make any appointments with anybody. The major drawback is that you can't shave them until they reach a certain length.

Plucking lasts long (from 3 to 8 weeks), yet it's really painful and takes time. As far as you can pluck only one hair at a time removing hair from your legs would probably take a whole day. Plucking is recommended on small areas such as eyebrows, upper lip and chin.

Depilatories are inexpensive and won't cause you any pain. The effect lasts from several days to two weeks. They can be used on any area, yet you have to be very careful when purchasing one, because it usually has a lot of chemical components. It's not recommended for people who have sensitive skin.

Waxing is probably the most painful method of hair removal, however, the effect is long lasting (from 3 to 6 weeks). For some people it may cause skin redness, inflammation and bumps, yet these effects will not take long to disappear, leaving smooth skin.

Electrolysis is permanent, yet it takes time for you to see the actual effect and you have to make appointments for that. It's usually used only for small areas such as upper lip, eyebrows and underarms. The procedure is painful and may cause dry skin, scabs, scarring and inflammation. Also, electrolysis is expensive, being the only permanent hair removal method. l

source:

Small bowel perforation after blunt injury abdomen and causes of delay in diagnosis

2009-08-29T05:59:00.000-07:00

Friday, August 28, 2009
Small bowel perforation after blunt injury abdomen and causes of delay in diagnosis

INTRODUCTION

The diseases of the small bowel are very rare in occurrence. In contrast, there are various kinds of contributory causes to perforation of the small bowel. These are classified as follows, traumatic, foreign body, ulcerative, tumorous, ileus, vessel originated-disease and idiopathic. Needless to say, the death of perforation is closely associated with the time interval from onset to operation.
The small intestine occupies a relatively large surface area within the peritoneal cavity and thus is frequently injured in patients with penetrating abdominal trauma. Because the small bowel is relatively mobile, has a lower bacterial flora, and has fewer anaerobes than the colon, peritoneal contamination secondary to small bowel injuries is better tolerated than that associated with colon injuries.
The Penetrating Abdominal Trauma Index (PATI), which quantitates the severity of abdominal injury based on risk factors associated with specific organs, employs a multiplier of 3 for small bowel injuries (compared with 4 for colon and liver, and 5 for pancreas and duodenum).

* The management of penetrating small bowel injuries for these reasons is generally straightforward, with simple repair being the rule.

INCIDENCE

* Estimates of the incidence of small bowel rupture associated with blunt abdominal injury range from 3 to 18%.
* The death related to perforation of the small bowel 17.1% which is between those of the colon (27.3%) and the stomach and duodenum (1 1.1%), respectively.

DELAY IN DIAGNOSIS

* It is generally accepted that delay in diagnosis in common because definite clinical signs is prone to being concealed. It is due to a low incidence of the appearance of free gas in the peritoneal cavity on abdominal X-ray film. To salvage the patients in early stage, surgeons should be alert to a latent interval in this stage.
* The diagnosis of SBI is now more frequently made on the basis of clinical signs or an abnormal CT scan, than as an associated injury during a trauma laparotomy. As a result, delays in the diagnosis of SBI may occur and contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality.
* Small-bowel perforations are often minute and may seal temporarily before free air is noted." Associated spasm of the circular muscle above and below the level of the perforation, results in a localised ileus which further prevents leakage. After 5 or 6 hours the spasm passes off and contamination of the peritoneal cavity occurs as the isolated segment takes part in the peristaltic activity again.
* ' Klinger" described 50 patients of all ages, in only 10 of whom he noted free air; in one of them the perforation only became evident on delayed films. Delay in diagnosis may occur as a result of late rupture of an intramural haematoma'" or after serosal and tunica muscularis tears, or after interference with the blood supply, as occurs in avulsion injuries." Delayed diagnosis may also be the result of lack of careful examination in patients with multiple injuries."
* In the digestive organ with the lumen, it is necessary that traumatic perforation should be quickly detected and treated. It is without saying that a presence of free gas is a confirmable finding.
* In contrast, abdominal free gas is unlikely to appear and often fails to detect in the early stage.

Pathogenesis of perforation of the gut is much different from each other. It is well known that perforation of lower part of the gut more frequently provokes endotoxic shock.

Summary of Amount and Location of Free Air according to Perforation Sites
Perforation Site Amount Location
Stomach/duodenum Abundant Around liver and stomach
Post-bulbar duodenum Right anterior pararenal space
Small bowel Small Mesenteric folds, around liver
Appendix Small/absent Around appendix
Large bowel Variable Pelvis, mesenteric folds, retroperitoneal space

Classification of Small Bowel Damage After Trauma
Grade Injury Description
I Hematoma Contusion or hematoma without devascularization
Laceration Partial thickness, no perforation
II Laceration Laceration <50%>

* Motor vehicle accidents are the main cause of blunt SBI. The increase in seat belt use has resulted in lower fatality rates and injury severity, but has been accompanied by a concomitant increase in rates of intestinal injuries.
* Blunt trauma commonly occurs as a result of motor vehicle crashes, falls from heights, and interpersonal assaults with blunt objects.

Intestinal injuries can occur secondary to blunt trauma by two major mechanisms:

1. Horizontal deceleration or shearing can occur in patients involved in collisions. The regions that are affected most commonly are near junctions between fixed and nonfixed points of bowel (i.e., proximal jejunum, terminal ileum).

2. Direct blow with a linear object (seat belt) across loop of bowel, with a subsequent "blowout" injury, can occur at any point of the intestine or the mesentery.

* Serial clinical evaluations of the abdomen are extremely useful in the diagnosis of SBI, particularly in patients with additional associated intra-abdominal injuries.
* A bruise across the abdomen inflicted by a seat belt ("seat belt sign") and ongoing abdominal pain are known associated risk factors of SBI.
* Fakhry et al. observed that 67.7% of 198 patients with blunt SBI initially presented with signs or symptoms highly suggestive of this lesion, and 84.3% were taken to the operating room without delay. In this study, of the patients involved in motor vehicle crashes, only 30% had the abdominal seat belt sign, which is less than that commonly reported in the literature (nearly 50%). Consistent with prior reports, the most frequent clinical signs were abdominal pain upon admission (75.6%) and abdominal tenderness upon physical examination (46.7%).
* Diagnosis of these injuries remains problematic. Early recognition of SBI is important in the prevention of morbidity. DPL is more sensitive than CT imaging for diagnosis of SBI; however, in many cases, it results in nontherapeutic laparotomy. CT imaging is newer than DPL, and it has become popular in recent years. The major advantages of CT include noninvasiveness, capacity to quantify free fluid, the ability to select patients with solid organ injury for non-operative management, and the ability to view retroperitoneal organs.
* Saku et al. analyzed the CT findings of 12 patients with SBI perforation due to blunt trauma, all patients underwent radiography and CT, and five underwent presurgical follow-up CT. Radiography demonstrated free air in only 8% (1/12) and 25% (3/12) at the initial and follow-up examinations, respectively. In contrast, the initial and followup CT scans detected extraluminal air in 58% (7/12) and 92% (11/12), respectively, suggesting that the incidence of extraluminal air increases as time elapses, prompting the authors to recommend a repeat CT, particularly after 8 h, in suspect cases to increase sensibility. Mesenteric fat obliteration was seen in 58% (7/12) and 75% (9/12) at initial and follow-up CT, respectively.

Posted by jitendraagrawal2000 at 3:10 PM
Dr. Jitendra Agrawal

Fertility treatments

2009-07-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

Fertility treatments

Once infertility has been diagnosed, a number of options are available, depending on the cause of the problem.
Fertility treatments (Image: couple)
In this article
Fertility drugs
Assisted reproduction treatments

Other options
Special checks

Fertility drugs
Fertility drugs are often the first treatment for women who aren't ovulating

Fertility drugs are often the first treatment for women who aren't ovulating. They work in the same way as the body's own hormones, triggering the ovaries to release eggs.

This method, known as ovulation induction, can sometimes lead to conception after a few months without further intervention.

Possible side effects include premenstrual symptoms such as nausea, headaches and weight gain.

Such drugs are also used as part of other more complicated assisted reproduction treatments, such as in vitro fertilisation and intrauterine insemination (see below). Other drugs - to help control the menstrual cycle or thicken the lining of the womb to prepare it for pregnancy, for example - may also be used. These can also cause side effects, such as hot flushes, headaches, nausea and swollen breasts.
Assisted reproduction treatments

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
What is it? Intrauterine insemination, also known as artificial insemination, involves inserting sperm into the womb at the time of ovulation using a catheter (a very fine needle or probe). The woman may need to take fertility drugs to stimulate egg production. The sperm used may be her partner's or donated.
Used to treat: unexplained infertility, premature ejaculation, erection difficulties.
Success rate: ten to 15 per cent per cycle.

In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
What is it? Eggs and sperm are collected and fertilised in the laboratory before the resulting embryo is transferred to the womb. The woman takes fertility drugs to stimulate the production of eggs. Once these are mature, they're collected by ultrasound guidance. The man produces a sperm sample, which is prepared before being put with the eggs in a Petri dish and left for a few days to see if fertilisation takes place. A resulting healthy embryo is placed in the womb using a catheter (a very fine needle or probe). Any remaining embryos that are suitable for freezing may be stored for future use. The sperm and/or eggs used may be the couple's own or donated.
Why it's used: to treat unexplained infertility, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, PCOS.
Success rate: about 25 per cent per cycle.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
What is it? A single sperm is injected into the cytoplasm or centre of a single egg. This is then transferred to the womb using the same process as IVF.
Why it's used: to treat male factor infertility, such as low sperm count or poor motility (mobility or movement) or abnormally shaped sperm. ICSI may also be used following previous unsuccessful attempts at fertilisation using IVF and when sperm has been retrieved directly from the epididymis or the testicles (see 'Sperm extraction', below).
Success rate: as for IVF, about 25 per cent per cycle, sometimes more.

Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT)
What is it? Gametes - eggs and sperm - are collected as for IVF. Instead of mixing sperm and eggs together in the laboratory, they're immediately transferred to one of the woman's fallopian tubes so fertilisation takes place inside the body. GIFT is an unlicensed treatment, which means it doesn't have to take place in a clinic licensed by the HFEA.
Why it's used: unexplained infertility.
Success rate: about 25 per cent per cycle.

Sperm extraction
What is it? A small operation that removes sperm from the epididymis (the tube where sperm mature in the man's body) or the testicles (where sperm cells are made) for use in ICSI or another treatment. There are several different methods of sperm extraction:
- PESA (percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration) involves guiding a small needle into the epididymis to draw out fluid containing sperm.
- TESE (testicular sperm extraction) uses the same method to remove tissue from the testes.
- MESA (microsurgical sperm aspiration) uses a small needle to extract mature sperm from the epididymis.
Why it's used: when a man can't produce sperm - for example, after a vasectomy or failed reversal.
Success rate: when used in ICSI, about 25 per cent per cycle.

Embryo freezing
What is it? The HFEA stipulates that (with certain strict exceptions) only two embryos may be transferred to the womb at a time in fertility treatments. This is under review and may be reduced to one embryo due to the risk of pregnancy complications, and of multiple and premature births. However, because IVF often creates more embryos than can be transferred in a single cycle, most clinics will freeze any remaining healthy embryos for use in future IVF treatments, with the patients' consent.
Why it's used: to avoid the need for further fresh IVF cycles involving invasive processes of egg stimulation and collection.
Success rate: normally only 60 per cent of embryos survive the freeze/thaw process and those that do survive have a lower rate of implantation and so a lower pregnancy rate than fresh embryos.
Other options

Clinics are increasingly using two newer techniques that may enhance the chances of pregnancy in some patients.

Blastocyst transfer
If during previous IVF attempts, the embryos fail to implant in the womb, the doctor may suggest a blastocyst transfer. The embryo is allowed to develop for five or six days before being transferred to the womb. Because the embryo is more developed and transfer occurs closer to the time that implantation would occur naturally, the pregnancy rate is usually higher. However, some embryos will die in the laboratory, so the number of embryos available for transfer and freezing will be fewer. For this reason, it's generally only offered to women who produce a large number of good quality embryos.

Assisted hatching
Before attaching itself to the wall of the womb, an embryo has to break out (hatch) from a gel-like membrane known as the zona pellucida. This membrane can be tough or thickened and some fertility experts think it may impede implantation of the embryo in the womb. To help the embryo break through, the embryologist may make a tiny hole in the membrane before it's transferred to help the hatching process.
Special checks

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
What is it? PGD involves checking the genes of embryos aged between two and five days, created by IVF for genetic diseases such as haemophilia and cystic fibrosis, as well as for some inherited diseases of later life such as breast, ovarian and bowel cancer. Disease-free embryos may then be transferred to the womb.
When it's used: if a couple has a child with a genetic disease and is at risk of having another; if there have been several terminations because a genetic disorder was diagnosed; if there's a strong family history of breast, bowel or ovarian cancer.

Pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS)
What is it? PGS (sometimes called aneuploidy screening) involves checking IVF embryos to ensure they have the correct number of chromosomes, and that these are normal.
When it's used: if parents are older, around 45 years, with a high risk of having a baby with chromosome disorder such as Down's syndrome or if the mother has a history of recurrent miscarriages. Normal cells contain 23 pairs of chromosomes, making a total of 46 chromosomes. PGS involves screening embryos produced by IVF to ensure they have this number. This avoids embryos with the wrong number of chromosomes being transferred to the womb. In Down's syndrome, for example, there are three copies of the number 21 chromosome instead of the usual two.
Your options if you're struggling to have a baby

Food As Medicine - The Tasty Approach To Better Health

2009-06-27T08:44:00.003-07:00

Food As Medicine - The Tasty Approach To Better Health

Rebecca Prescott
Annemarie Colbin, in her book, Food and Healing, presents a chapter on altering diet to combat specific conditions. Her recommendations are based on her own experience as a student of macrobiotics and health food, and a teacher of natural healing and balanced eating. As well as her observations of those whom she treated in consultations, and the transformations of her students over the years. Despite her background in macrobiotics and vegetarianism, Annemarie isn't dogmatic about food - she recognizes that what is healing for one person, during a particular period of their life, may not be healing for others, or even for that same person at different stages of their life.

She takes as her cue the fact that regular foods have been used for their medicinal value in most traditional cultures. The underlying principle is one of restoring balance. Illness is considered a state of imbalance within the body. And like in homeopathy, she believes that remedies can cause similar symptoms to that which they cure - if the symptoms they can cure are not present, and they are taken in sufficient quantity. So, the remedy should no longer be taken once the symptoms of imbalance, the illness or condition, disappears. Otherwise, the remedy may in fact cause similar symptoms to reappear. If this is the case, the remedy should not be taken again, as the remedies are (according to this principle), causing the new symptoms. Serious medical conditions she does not rely on food cures for. She recognizes that Western medicine also has its place. But food being what it is, can also be a useful healing adjunct in those situations.

One thing that impressed her was food's ability to alter our metabolism quickly. She described this epiphany after cooking a meal for some South American friends, who were used to a diet that was high in protein and fats. When they ate the meal prepared by her, which was high in complex carbohydrates like whole grains and legumes, and low in fat, sugar (for dessert), and low in protein, they found alcohol affected them in a way it usually didn't. The same amount they normally drank, which did not make them drunk with their usual fare, got them quite tipsy on hers. She observed from this that alcohol, being expansive in nature, balanced out the highly contractive protein and fat they normally ate. These ideas, of particular foods having an expansive or contractive nature, is one that she learnt from the Oriental healing systems she studied.

This approach touches on a core difference between Western understanding of both food, and medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine's (TCM). TCM has as its conceptual underpinning, the study of relationships between things. Western approaches, to both nutrition and medicine, are based on a reductionist approach. They explore isolated nutrients, diseases that are studied under the microscope, with a symptom that then suggests possible causes, defined within a narrow and static frame. Ted Kaptchuk illustrates this when he describes how, when he was studying TCM in Macao, one of his teachers was talking about shingles. His teacher described how shingles on the face was different to shingles elsewhere, say, on the trunk. The reason behind this was that "the Chinese view demanded another perspective - seeing the relationship of the symptom to the whole body". (Kaptchuk) he goes on to say: "The question of cause and effect is always secondary to the overall pattern...The total configurations, the patterns of disharmony, provide the framework for treatment." (Kaptchuk)

References: Ted Kaptchuk, Chinese Medicine, The Web That Has No Weaver (Rider Books, London)

Annemarie Colbin, Food As Healing (Ballantine Books, New York)About the Author: To learn more about acne natural cures versus natural acne treatments, check out this article exploring the use of Chinese Herbs: http://www.vitaminstohealth.com/acne-natural-cure.html

Fight Fatigue with this Natural Remedy

2009-06-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

Fight Fatigue with this Natural Remedy

Kevin Sheldon

Most doctors agree that non-specific fatigue can be exacerbated by modern diets rich in fats and refined carbohydrates. For a graphic example of this, you only have to watch 'Supersize Me' - the Documentary about what happens if you eat nothing but fast food for a month. Additionally, drugs, coffee (caffeine products), smoking and alcohol can make the problem even worse, even though most of these are usually thought of as 'stimulants'. If untreated, chronic fatigue can lead on to much worse conditions such as anemia, hypoglycemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism and even cancer.

So how can one avoid fatigue, without resorting to un-natural stimulants? Here's a natural remedy you can try. The herbs ginseng, lavender, rosemary and sweet flag can all help raise your energy levels naturally. Combine these with vitamin B complexes, vitamins C and D, as all of these have been known to help fight fatigue. The remedy is also improved by the addition of vitamin A, pantothenic acid, B12, folic acid, C, E, iron, calcium and magnesium.

Finally, the most remedies involve a little exercise, and this is no exception. If you can't get a sweat up physically for any reason, try salt-glow skin rubs, or alternate hot and cold showers (not too hot or too cold, mind!).

A little of this remedy should soon get you back into peak form again!
About the Author
Kevin writes remedy articles for www.freeremedies.com the site full of tips and free articles on natural remedies.

Finding A Home Remedy For Snoring

2009-06-03T00:34:00.000-07:00

Finding A Home Remedy For Snoring

Alan Schill

Home remedies are terrific for many things, but did you also know that there are home remedies for snoring? They are natural, safe and, best of all - they are free. If you are looking for the perfect home remedy for snoring, you are at the right place.

Sleeping on your side is a terrific home remedy for snoring. Research shows that individuals who sleep on their back snore more often than side sleepers. Another good home remedy for snoring is to sleep on two pillows instead of one. The additional few inches of elevation may help you to breathe better through the night, which may help you to say goodbye to snoring altogether.

If you are an allergy sufferer, there may be a home remedy for snoring that you can use to also help eliminate your allergy symptoms. When airway passages become restricted, which is often the case with allergies, snoring is a possible result. Breathing steam from hot running water is a home remedy for snoring that is also great for opening the nasal passages and improving breathing. In addition, ridding your home of airborne allergens with the use of air filtration units can help to get rid of many airborne allergens.

Many snoring sufferers, who are searching for the perfect home remedy for snoring, turn to anti-snoring aids for help. The Sleep Genie is one such device, which is doctor recommended. While comfortably supporting the jaw with it's nylon lycra blend, the Sleep Genie holds the mouth closed to prevent snoring. The best part is that this anti-snoring device requires no medication, no invasive surgery and does not hinder the wearer's movement during the night.

Another home remedy for snoring is weight loss. A combination of diet and exercise will not only help you to lose weight and lessen the chances of snoring, but will also promote a healthier lifestyle overall. Obesity is one of the leading causes of snoring, so consider shedding those unwanted pounds and your snoring habit in the process.

This article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be used as, or in place of, professional medical advice. Before beginning any treatment for snoring, please consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and remedy.

About the Author:

A new anti-snoring scientific breakthrough is rapidly changing the lives of ex-snorers… because the first night you use it, it stops snoring!

Hair Loss Solution: Try Aromatherapy

2009-05-21T07:20:00.000-07:00

Hair Loss Solution: Try Aromatherapy

Kathlene Capelle

Our ancestors did not have the benefit of today's scientifically researched drugs, but they often found natural remedies that worked just as well. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat everything from premenstrual syndrome to high blood pressure. Men experiencing the first signs of baldness often looked to natural cures as well, and some of the herbal remedies have surprising results.

A group of dermatologists in Scotland tested an herbal remedy with great success, helping over 40% of their patients with a mixture of essential oils containing cedarwood, lavender, rosemary and thyme. In this double blind study, the group using the essential oils showed improvement in 40 percent of the subjects, while only 15% of the control group noted an improvement.

So, would you be interested in trying out aromatherapy as a hair loss solution? If you'd like to experiment with this, mix three drops each of lavender and rosemary oil with two drops each of cedarwood and thyme oils. Add this mixture to 4 teaspoons of grapeseed oil and one-quarter teaspoon of jojoba oil. Rub the mixture into your scalp for two minutes nightly, then use a warm towel to wrap your head.

If you're not experiencing baldness yet, but your hair doesn't look healthy, you may want to try a mixture of lavender and bay essential oils to stimulate blood flow to the scalp and help circulation to the area. About six drops of each oil should be added to ½ cup of a good carrier oil, like almond or sesame oil. Warm the mixture slightly and rub into the scalp. After letting the mixture penetrate the scalp for 20 minutes, shampoo with your normal shampoo. For additional benefit, you may want to add up to 4 drops of bay oil to your normal shampoo.

Of course, you won't see a whole new head of hair after just one or two treatments. However, repeated use will most likely provide you with better looking, fuller hair. You'll also experience the positive benefits of aromatherapy and scalp massage as well, feeling more relaxed and ready to face the day. Aromatherapy may just be the hair loss solution that you are looking for!

About The Author
Kathlene Capelle's site includes information on female hair loss, male hair loss, cause of hair loss, hair loss remedy, hair loss prevention, natural hair loss treatments, etc.

Health supplement overview

2009-05-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

Health supplement overview

John Gibb

Are you wondering which herbal health supplement you should take? Well, we've comprised a list of some of the most important herbs to begin on a regimen.
Alpha Lipoic acid is a special antioxidant that recycles both vitamins C and E in the human body. This is helpful to many age related diseases.

Avena Sativa is an extract for sexual health and vigor, also known by the name "green oats"

Bee Pollen is a substance produced by bees when they pollinate flowers. It's a great energy and immune system booster, and can be used as a weight loss aid.

Beta Sitosterol is a substance used for prostate health. More powerful then saw palmetto, this nutrient occurs in plant and vegetable matter.

CoQ10 is a nutrient, short for Coenzyme Q10 that is used in heart health and anti aging.

DMAE is a special nutrient that is known to increase mental function, as well as being known for elevating moods and fighting depression.

Dong Quai is a root remedy that many women take to help fight menopausal symptoms.

Epimedium, also known as Horny Goat's Weed, increases the body's testosterone and can be used to help the libido.

Fish oil is a naturally occurring chemical in the bodies of fish that contains omega 3 fatty acids that work wonders for mental and physical health.

Lutein is a carotenoid nutrient that helps eye health, curbing macular degeneration.
Royal Jelly is a nutrient found in the hives of bees. It has a broad range of vitamins and nutrients that can help keep your body working in tip top shape.

Wild Yam is a root remedy that helps curb menopausal symptoms.

Now that you know some of the basic herbs and remedies that go along with supplements, you can help yourself with choosing the ones that are right for you. If you are on any medications, it is best to ask a doctor before beginning a supplement regimen.

About the Author

John Gibb manages http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com

An updated website and blog dedicated to quality nutrition.

Cure Acne With A Natural Health Remedy

2009-05-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Cure Acne With A Natural Health Remedy

Emmanuel Aubrey

If you have acne, you might feel like there is nothing else you
wouldn't rather have in place of it. And with the acne scarring
that comes afterward, it is no wonder that so many people find
themselves desperately jumping from one product to another.

The best news that any acne sufferer can hear is that acne is
curable with time and dedication; and that with the right
product, acne treatment can meet all your acne removal needs.

Natural health remedies are usually the best way to go. All you
have to do is to know your skin type. This is to help prevent
you from buying products that will not help you in any way.

And another crucial thing to remember is that there is only one
way to treat acne permanently--and that is to be proactive!

With natural health remedies, you will be able to remove your
acne through natural treatment. And with the limited side
effects that natural health remedies cause, you will be pleased
to know that you will not break out in any allergies.

Natural health remedies are there to give you the best of nature
with their natural ingredients that will work to feed and
nourish your skin while, at the same time, provide you with the
painless treatment you need.

Having acne can erode an acne sufferer's confidence; and with
the help of natural health remedies, that sufferer can regain
her confidence as well as her beautiful skin.

The natural health remedies for acne that you need to purchase
are face wash and facial scrub; cleanser; toner and day and
night cream. And in order for these natural health remedies to
work, you need to use them.

Make a daily routine so that you can give your skin the best
treatment available.

Natural health remedies will help to remedy your acne and you
can be happy again, just as long as you make that commitment to
your skin and yourself.

Natural Alternative Flu Home Remedy

2009-04-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

Natural Alternative Flu Home Remedy

Brian Carter

When Chase-Manhattan lender David Givens began to feel some of the early symptoms of the flu - fatigue, muscle aches and pains (not from exercise), and a slight fever - he had no reason to expect he'd be, as he put it, "amazingly better within 2 days" because of a flu home remedy.

Fortunately for him, one of his basketball-playing friends, the author of this article, is a Chinese medicine acupuncturist and herbalist. When he called me about his symptoms, I recommended he take a modern Chinese herbal flu home remedy called Honeysuckle & Bupleurum (pronounced Boo-plur-um).

It was also fortunate for David that I edit the work of a well-known Chinese Medicine translator, Philippe Sionneau. Sionneau's book (published in France, but not yet in English), Modern Chinese Herbal Formulas, contains a bevy of home remedy solutions that marry ancient wisdom with modern-day pharmacology (drug actions). According to the research, all 12 of the traditional Chinese herbs in the Honeysuckle & Bupleurum flu home remedy have either antiviral or antibacterial actions.

For most people, the flu is a miserable two-week inconvenience. When you get sick, you miss work, you're less able to fulfill your responsibilities, you feel horrible - fun is out of the question - when you do begin to feel better, there's a backlog of things to catch up on. You may start the catch-up process before you have your energy back, thus ensuring more fatigue, and prolonging your recovery time.

Givens summarizes his experience: "I was leaving for my brother's wedding back East. Within 2 days of starting the flu home remedy, I felt amazingly better. I didn't feel it right away but by the end of the 2nd day, my symptoms were gone - it was a total turnaround. I started taking the herbs on Wednesday, and left Friday. I didn't feel any symptoms at all during the weekend."

The influenza virus can be life threatening - it kills about 36,000 people (mostly over age 65) each year. For employers, it's a major loss of revenue and productivity. The New England Journal of Medicine reported in 1995 that it costs employers $3 to $5 million annually. We don't yet have a study to verify it, but my and other herbalists' observation is that a flu home remedy like Honeysuckle & Bupleurum cuts cold and flu time down to 2 or 3 days. If every American employee used them, we'd save millions!

How do you personally stand to gain from this flu home remedy? David Givens felt better in 2 days, despite having to pack, fly across the country, and socialize away from home. Travel and overdoing it can stress the immune system, plane travel can irritate the sinuses, and David's immune system had already been compromised by the flu. So, the herbs not only turned the tide, but also kept him healthy despite greater than normal stressors.

Givens adds, "There are so many side effects with over the counter remedies - your nose gets dried out and you get sleepy. There's always a drawback you feel right away, whereas, with this flu home remedy, there wasn't one. It's a much cleaner change within body."

If you're not a licensed medical professional, as with many diseases, please don't make your medical decisions solely on the basis of your reading and research - consult your medical doctor, and a licensed and trained herbalist/acupuncturist.

It's also important, when considering various treatments, to differentiate between colds, flu's, and sinus infections. You can find the specific symptoms of each on the National Institute of Health's MEDLINEplus internet health information website (www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/).
About the Author

Since 1999, Brian Carter has been helping people improve their lives with alternative medicine therapies. He is the author of Powerful Body, Peaceful Mind: How to Heal Yourself with Foods, Herbs, and Acupressure has written hundreds of alternative medicine articles, and edits his own Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture website (http://www.pulsemed.org/pulse-of-oriental-medicine.htm)

Flu Vaccine Hysteria

2009-04-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

Flu Vaccine Hysteria

Lee Cummings

Last week the media circus surrounding the flu vaccine reached a crescendo.

Half of all the flu vaccine supply is not available this year!

Why? Because the British company that supplies half of the U.S. flu vaccine supply was shut down by health officials.

Does it really matter?

Unless you are under 2 or over 65 and are in poor health, It doesn't matter.

Because of the flu vaccine shortage The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have said that healthy people under the age of 65 should do without a flu shot.

Gee, that's what we just talked about.

So even if there were enough flu vaccines, why would You be urged to get one?

The CDC just said that healthy people under the age of 65 can do without a flu shot.

Those of you who take care of your immune system Year ‘round don't have anything to worry about.

The question you want to ask yourself is "Do I really want to have a live vaccine injected or inhaled into my body when my immune system is not in the best of shape?"

Before you decide just how easy this decision is to make, Let me explain a few things which will make the decision a little easier.

This years' flu vaccine is tailor made from LAST years' flu strains, so it is not going to be as effective against THIS years' flu strains.

Are you aware of all the additives in the flu vaccine and vaccines in general?

These additives are all highly toxic to the human body, let me show you …

The biggest problem you face with flu shots is that you are being injected with a number of toxic additives.

How would you like to have antifreeze injected into Your body? Don't worry, they call it ethylene glycol. Makes it sound better doesn't it?

Anyone for aluminum? (it's only to promote Antibody response) Or formaldehyde? (to kill Viruses).

Here's the best one – a mercury derivative (used as a preservative), called Thimerosal.

Are there safer alternatives to vaccines?

Of course there are. Let's go over some of the most effective proven, safe and natural ways to keep your immune system healthy no matter what season it is.

Are you aware that you can do one simple thing to easily boost your immune system?

Lose the sweets. That's right, sugar compromises the immune system.

Eat a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and fresh organic meat protein.

Here's another one – wash your hands more often.

As many people are walking around with colds, you may be shaking hands and touching things others have.

How about those zinc gluconate lozenges you can get at any drug store? These are not only highly effective when you have already caught a cold, but also to keep Your immune system strong when those around you are sick.

Naturally, supplements and herbs have been effective for thousands of years as a proven remedy to ward off colds and flu.

And here is a list of proven natural and effective Homeopathic remedies.

Vitamin C – Be sure to get a natural form of this one

And also make sure it contains bioflavonoids to help absorption.

A good natural multi-vitamin

Echinacea

Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) which is available in liquid, tablet and capsule form.

Olive Leaf Extract

Black Elderberry Extract

And finally, as long as you are cooking, cook with plenty of fresh garlic.

These are all simple and inexpensive remedies for maintaining your best health all year long.

Naturally, the more of these remedies you combine, the more healthy benefits you will receive.

You can easily stay healthy by taking action now.

Sources:

Health Sciences Institute e-alert "Flu vaccine shortage",

October 6 , 2004, Jenny Thompson

Health Sciences Institute e-alert "This week",

October 8 , 2004, Jenny Thompson

Combating Anxiety: The Alternative Way

2009-04-06T05:33:00.000-07:00

Combating Anxiety: The Alternative Way

Tony Robinson

Perhaps you break out into a cold sweat when you have to
deliver a talk before a group of people. Or perhaps you become
nervous when you have to take a test. There are certainly
numerous causes for anxiety. Similarly, there are a number of
treatment options for those afflicted with the illness. If you
don't like the idea of medication, you might try an alternative
approach to battling your anxiety.

It is estimated that nearly seven percent of Americans suffer
from anxiety and panic disorders. While prescription drugs are
routinely offered as a remedy for such illnesses, they can be
dangerous if administered over a long period of time. Some of
the more popular anxiety drugs include Diazepam and Wellbutrin.
However, increasingly, Americans are turning to alternative
medicines in an effort to soothe their anxious feelings. In just
the last decade, the demand for alternative medicine has
skyrocketed 300 percent. This is partially the result of the
fact that many alternative medicines offer relief from symptoms
without the side-effects linked to prescription drugs. It should
be noted, however, that natural remedies are not meant to be
long-term treatments, although they can offer relief in the
short-term.

Before you buy a natural remedy, it is important that you do
your homework as far as your knowledge of herbs and vitamins is
concerned. It is also imperative that you consult your family
physician in order to ensure that the alternative treatment is
safe for you. A number of herbs offer relief from the symptoms
of anxiety. For instance, St. Johns Wort is one of the most
popular anti-anxiety herbs on the market. After taking St. Johns
Wort for as little as two weeks, you should notice a difference
in your anxiety level.

Valerian Root is another alternative option you might try. It
is especially helpful in combating insomnia because of its
sedative quality. In other words, it helps to lull the central
nervous system to sleep. Research indicates that Valerian Root
is effective in improving sleep 90 percent of the time. This is
important, since much of anxiety is linked to sleep disorders.

Vitamins can also provide an effective treatment for anxiety.
They can be quite important in enabling neurotransmitter
synthesis and maintenance. For instance, B-complex can help
produce neurochemicals, which in turn assists in the synthesis
of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Yet another aid to combating anxiety is Passion Flower. It
helps to calm the central nervous system, leading to feelings of
peace. Meanwhile, Ashwaghanda Root can make you feel stronger so
that you are better able to handle the effects of anxiety. But
perhaps no herbal remedy is quite as effective as Kava Kava.
This is considered to be one of the strongest anti-anxiety
remedies in the world. A number of studies indicates that Kava
Kava is highly effective in relieving the short-term symptoms of
anxiety. It is also considered quite safe to ingest, making it
one of the most popular herbs available on the market today.

An herbal remedy called PureCalm is being marketed as a safe
way to deal with general nervousness and worry. You may feel
relaxed after taking only a few drops of this natural substance.
However, if you suffer from severe anxiety, including panic
attacks, you might consider a remedy called MindSoothe, which
combines St. Johns Wort with Passiflora. Mindsoothe has been
linked to good sleep, greater concentration, and better memory.
Therefore, it is particularly effective in treating the symptoms
of anxiety.

We all have feelings of anxiety from time to time. But how can
you tell if your anxiety is out of control? If you experience
racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat, extreme difficulty resting or
concentrating, you probably need to get help. If you do not like
dealing with the side-effects of prescription drugs, an herbal
remedy may be in order. You should know in advance, however,
that some herbal remedies carry their own risks and lead to
significant side-effects.

The more you know about herbal remedies, the better consumer
you'll be. Don't allow yourself to be a human guinea pig. Take
herbal medication only after you have thoroughly studied its
effects upon the human body.

About the author:
Tony Robinson is a husband, parent, webmaster and international
author. Leading a full and busy lifestyle he is fully aware of
the needs of a stress free life. For tips, techniques and
further information visit http://www.stress-gone.com

Combat Arthritis Pain With A Natural Arthritis Remedy

2009-04-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

Combat Arthritis Pain With A Natural Arthritis Remedy

Howard Tiano

Although there are different types of arthritis – i.e. osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis – it appears that both types can be improved through the use of natural arthritis remedies and many of those remedies can be found on websites or in local pharmacies, or health food supermarkets that have been springing up all over North America.

Osteoarthritis can result from injuries to the joints, a lifestyle that overuses the joints, from deficiencies in the diet, or simply as a factor of the aging process. Deterioration occurs in the cartilage that protects the bone ends and they become rough instead of smooth as they should be. That causes friction and friction results in pain.

One of the most well accepted natural arthritis remedies for osteoarthritis is taking glucosamine or chondroitin – or better yet a combination of the two. Glucosamine has become especially popular in the last few years for one main reason: it works. It helps strengthen cartilage, and promotes healthy joints. Most people take the sulfate form of glucosamine, but new research shows that glucosamine hydrochloride will have better results.

Other natural arthritis remedies include BioCell Collagen, Hylaronic Acid, and Methylsulfonyl Methane. All of these natural arthritis remedies can be found in sources that give information about herbs and other natural cures.

Rheumatoid arthritis appears to have numerous contributing causes and requires a more holistic, comprehensive approach in order to provide a natural arthritis remedy. Many sufferers have a genetic marker that contributes to a tendency to develop the disease. In addition to herbal treatments, a change in diet is widely considered to be one of the best natural arthritis remedies available. Recent research shows a connection between intestinal health and inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Foods like refined sugars, saturated fats, processed foods and hydrogenated oils may well contribute to arthritis because they are pro-inflammatory foods. There is also evidence to indicate that food allergies play a strong role in development of arthritis.

Nutrients that have been found to be effective in reducing symptoms for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis include zinc, selenium, manganese, vitamin C, pantothenic acid, and vitamin E. These natural arthritis remedies and others can be found in nearly any publication that talks about herbal cures. At the same time, changing the diet to exclude inflammatory foods and eat more naturally may be a strong factor in reducing arthritis symptoms.

Whether the arthritis from which a particular individual suffers is caused by genetics, food allergies, aging, or injury, there are a number of natural cures available that can help reduce the symptoms significantly. Combating arthritis with natural remedies can substantially reduce the need for harsher treatments like prescription drugs or surgery.

About the Author

Alternative Medicine Resource was conceived to inform visitors of the available choices for treatment beyond standard medical solutions, so you know your options, and can make the best decision for your circumstances.Howard Tiano provides free advice & information on alternative medicine, and can be found at http://www.alternative-medicine-resource.com

Benefits of Alternative Medicine

2009-04-06T05:27:00.000-07:00

Benefits of Alternative Medicine

Ruby Boyd

With the growing number of people being affected by newly
discovered chronic degenerative diseases such as AIDS and
chronic fatigue syndrome, Are you worried or wondering....

Is it possible to maintain good health?

What your body needs to function properly?

Why conventional medicine is becoming more complicated and
costly and in some cases simply ineffective?

A growing number of people are turning to alternative medicine and
natural healing--simple, traditional low-tech methods of preventing
illnesses and solving everyday health problems.

Do you have unanswered questions on....

Why are people flocking to health food stores, with their
lotions and potions, and what keeps them going back for more?

What to do if you or someone in your family falls ill?

Are these therapies really old wives tales or can they really
work?

Even mainstream doctors have begun to recommend natural drugless
therapies' to treat both everyday complaints and serious illnesses.
Dietary modifications, for instance, has become the weapons of
choice against a number of diseases that would have been treated
mainly with prescription drugs a generation ago.

It is now known that many conditions are caused by the wrong
diet and can be reversed by the right diet.

Heart disease, cancer, weight problems, arthritis, diabetes,
high blood pressure--they can all be treated to some degree
with foods.

Natural therapies found in alternative
medicine are actually much older than Western treatments such
as surgeries and antibiotics. Experts estimate that herbal remedies
and Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, has been around
for 5,000 years.

Many alternative medicine remedies began with scientific research
or clinical impressions reported by physicians working with safe,
natural substances.

But we live in a generation now that has been cut off from this
age-old tradition of self-reliance. Healing and health care
have become almost--the exclusive province of duly licensed
physicians. While doctors and other professionals-are indeed
great to have around, what is not so great is when you cannot
do anything without them.

Shouldn't we be able to do something to save our health--maybe
even our lives--without a doctor?

What happens when medical help is not so readily available?

What happens when doctoring simply does not work?

Some of us go to doctor after doctor, and still no help. Is
that the end of the line?

While antibiotics have saved millions of lives, they have not
really solved some resurgence of germs that are turning up in
new forms that do not respond to conventional therapies.

There has been a real shift in the way people think about their
health. Rising health care cost is a factor in the recent surge
of interest in alternative medicine.

Many people are attracted to the alternative physicians emphasis
on treating the whole person--body, mind and spirit. Most
importantly some physicians use intensive counseling to help
patients find out whether aspects of their daily lives, such
as job stress, marital problems diet or sleeping habits might
be behind their symptoms.

In this age of managed care and impersonal group practices patients
find this individualized approach of alternative medicine
particularly appealing.

One of the principal goals of natural healing is to break the
cycle of dependency and allow people to be more in control of
their own lives.

Alternative Medicine

www.a1-natural-health-and-beauty.com

About the Author

Ruby Boyd is the owner of www.a1-natural-health-
and-beauty.com, a website that offers
information on how to achieve health and beauty fitness goals
naturally.

Cold Sore Remedy - Mint Tea

2009-04-01T05:31:00.000-07:00

Cold Sore Remedy - Mint Tea

Denny Bodoh

Copyright 2005 drbodoh

A cold sore remedy proven very effective, as well as pleasant to
use, is mint tea. Many times I've seen a cold sore completely
healed in as little as 7 days using the mint tea cold sore
remedy described in this article.

As with any cold sore remedy I write about, I'm offering this
cold sore remedy to you for information purposes only. It's a
cold sore remedy that has worked well for many others.

In no way is this cold sore remedy presented as medical advice.
Nothing takes the place of a one-on-one relationship with a
health professional.

Keep in mind also - the best cold sore remedy is one that's
applied topically. A cold sore is primarily an external problem
and is easily treated this way. You may hear of a variety of
vitamins or prescription medications that are useful as an
internal cold sore remedy. These do sometimes help. But, the
simple and direct approach will always give you the very best
results.

This is true with a cold sore or any other problem in life.

Mint is a very powerful cold sore remedy because it has strong
anti-viral properties. Mint also has a very soothing effect,
which has made it a favorite with many folks who've written me.

But first, let's look at the "universal" cold sore remedy - ice.

Ice has been used as a cold sore remedy for centuries. Today ice
is readily available anywhere at any time. Even a cold can of
soda works as a cold sore remedy, when held to the sore.

The replication process of the herpes virus creates the cold
sore. Ice, when applied to an emerging cold sore, discourages
the herpes virus from replicating. The herpes virus hates cold.
Applying ice or any cold object will stall the herpes virus from
creating that hideous sore. And sometimes even send the herpes
virus back into hibernation.

As a cold sore remedy, combining the ice method with mint is
many times more effective.

Mint is very easy to find. The form we use is mint tea bags.
These are available anywhere you find herbal teas. If the mint
is combined with other herbs, that will work fine also. Just
make sure the mint is primary. Mint can also be easily grown in
a window pot if you want to try it fresh. I'll talk about a
special cold sore remedy using fresh mint in just a moment.

This is how we turn mint tea into a very effective cold sore
remedy.

Taking 20 oz. of bottled water and 5 tea bags (about one tea bag
per 4 oz. of water), we make a strong batch of mint tea. Then
freeze the wet tea bags.

Using the frozen tea bags in place of ice, we hold the tea bag
on the cold sore area for about 10 minutes at a time. About 3
times per hour works well.

With this frozen mint cold sore remedy, you get the comforting
and healing effects of ice. Plus, as the bag melts, you are
applying a very strong anti-viral medication. This will kill
thousands of herpes viruses.

Additionally, you can supercharge this cold sore remedy by
sipping the tea. Also, apply the mint tea liquid to the sore
with a cotton ball or paper towel. Now you have an internal as
well as an external cold sore remedy.

This is also a perfect cold sore remedy for those rare people
who get a cold sore inside the mouth. It works well for canker
sores too. As a cold sore remedy, or for canker sores, you can
use the tea as mouthwash. Swish it around for a minute or so,
then swallow it for the internal benefits.

A variation of this cold sore remedy, we've used successfully,
is to freeze the tea liquid. This works best for us using an ice
cube tray that makes smaller ice cubes. This is a little messier
as the cube melts. If you use fresh grown or bulk mint, then you
won't have the tea bags to freeze. In that case, this may be one
way to use your mint as a cold sore remedy.

One final note on using mint as a cold sore remedy.

Using this cold sore remedy, you may not want to, or can't, sit
and hold the ice or frozen tea bags to your lip. If you're on
the go, here's a very convenient and powerful way to use mint as
a cold sore remedy.

You can quickly make an excellent cold sore remedy by crushing
fresh mint leaves into a paste. If you don't wish to grow your
own, mint is often available fresh or dried at your local health
food store. With dried mint, add some water to reconstitute it
and it will make a fine paste too. As you make the paste, mix in
a little baking soda. This raises the pH level, which the herpes
virus also hates.

Now you have a cold sore remedy you can use when traveling or at
work. And, if made with fresh mint, the mint will be even
stronger than in the dried tea form because you aren't heating
it.

I hope you, as so many others have, find this to be an
excellent, cheap and powerful cold sore remedy.

About the author:

Denny Bodoh is a 33-year newspaper veteran, and an alternative
health and nutrition research writer. Learn more about cold
sores, and cold sore remedies, by going to his wildly popular
cold sore site. http://be-cold-sore-free.com/

Get hemorrhoid relief from herbal remedies

2009-03-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

Get hemorrhoid relief from herbal remedies

rudy silva

Here are four different herbs that can give you hemorrhoid relief and help to get rid of your hemorrhoids. Using these herbs is a convenient and cost effective way to treat your hemorrhoid symptoms.

Use these herbs just long enough to give you hemorrhoid relief. Once you see that your symptoms have disappeared, stop using these herbs. Using herbs longer than necessary will make you less sensitive to the power of these herbs, if you have to use them again.

Comfrey root powder

Comfrey powder comes from an herbal root that has plenty

of allantoin. This herb is a powerful acting herb that is anti-inflammatory and stimulates the formation of new skin. It

can also cause hemorrhoids that are outside on the anus to

shrink and pull back. This makes comfrey powder an effective hemorrhoid remedy.

Here's how to use it.

Buy the powder and not the liquid. Make a paste by mixing

it with olive, fish, or flaxseed oil. Apply the paste directly

onto your anus and surrounding area. You can apply it at

night and your morning shower will remove it.

Fresh comfrey leaves or roots are the best to use. However,

you can get precut and dried comfrey root and leaves from a health food or herb store. If you use the dried leaves, you can put them into a coffee grinder to create a powder. Use this powder to create a paste with oils.

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola is an Indian herb that is a hemorrhoid remedy.

Use an extract that has 70% triterpenic acid since this is the

active ingredient.

Take 30 mg of Gotu Kola 3 time a day.

Gotu kola extract reduces pain, swelling, fatigue, and

sensation of heaviness from hemorrhoids.

Horse Chestnut

Horse chestnut comes from the bark of a tree and has been

found to be useful in treating hemorrhoids. It contains the

chemicals "aesculin" and "aescin", which strengthen your blood vessels and which help to reduce hemorrhoids. It also helps to reduce inflamed areas.

Here's how to use it.

You can make a tea and apply it directly to your

hemorrhoids. However, do not drink the tea since it

contains tannin, which tightens mucus and tissue and would

cause constipation. Use it in powder form and mix it with oil to produce a paste and apply it to your anus area.

Plantain Herb

Plantain also has plenty of allantoin just like comfrey root

powder.

Here's how to use it.

Use it just like comfrey powder by mixing it with oil and

applying it directly to your anus.

You can also combine equal parts of the plantain and

comfrey powder. If you only have plantain leaves, put

them in a coffee grinder to create a powder. Now you can

make a mixture with oil and both of these herbs.

Rudy Silva has a Physics degree from the University of San Jose California and is a Natural Nutritionist. He writes a newsletter called "natural-remedies-thatwork.com" and he has written an ebook called "How to Relieve Your Constipation with 77 Natural Remedies." You can get more information on this ebook and more hemorrhoid remedies at this site. http://www.hemorrhoid-remedies.for--you.info

Beta-glucan a safe bet for auto-immune diseases

2009-03-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

Beta-glucan a safe bet for auto-immune diseases

Anonymous

Question : I HAVE a friend who is HIV+ with a CD 4 of 600+. Is there any natural and safe remedy for such a case? Is there a product which can eliminate the virus from his system?

Answer : CERTAIN nutrients may help in building up his immune system to fight the virus.

Beta-glucan, a long-chained polysaccharide molecule derived from the cell wall of the common Baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), is an active, safe and potent immune regulator that improves the immune system without pushing it to over- reactivity. Hence it does not create complications for those with auto- immune diseases.

Beta-glucan accomplishes this by activating the immune response through the specialised immune cells known as macrophages to yield various therapeutic effects. Besides its immune-enhancing effects, beta-glucan has also been known to assist the body in regulating cholesterol levels, promote rapid wound healing and inflammation, protect against radiation exposure and prevent infection.

Combined with powerful anti- free radical nutrients such as beta-carotene, and selenium, polysaccharides and vitamins A, C and E with zinc in a formulation will help strengthen the immune system.

Several studies have indicated that the stimulation of the immune system by beta-glucan results in enhanced resistance to most virus, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. A trial using beta-glucan to prevent infection in patients after undergoing abdominal and lung surgery or gastrointestinal surgery found that it significantly reduces the rate of infections. Investigators of the trial concluded that beta-glucan was safe and could potentially decrease life-threatening post-operative infections.

About the Author

www.medical-explorer.com

Best Home Remedies Against Thrush

2009-03-20T05:14:00.001-07:00

Best Home Remedies Against Thrush

Charlene J. Nuble

The overgrowth of the fungi Candida Albicans is responsible for the onset of Thrush, which is also know as Yeast Infection or Candidiasis. Thrush is not a serious disease but it can cause great discomfort for its sufferer. The best thing you can do then you think you have thrush is to see a doctor immediately. There are also many over the counter medicines that are effective in treating thrush.

But aside from seeing a doctor and using over the counter medications, there are many things you can do at home to treat thrush.

1. The first thing you should do at the onset o thrush is to clean the affected area by washing it with plain water. It is not advisable to use soaps, shower gels and bath gels because these products can worsen the infection. Make sure that the affected area is always clean, cool and dry.

2. When you have thrush, avoid using lubricants and spermicidal creams. These products can make your conditions worse. You should also avoid latex condoms because latex or rubber can cause irritation.

3. Do not let synthetic fibers or materials touch the affected area as doing so could cause further irritation. You must wear clothes or undergarments made from natural fibers so as to minimize irritation.

4. Stress can trigger thrush this is why you should learn to relax and fight stress. Do not put yourself in stressful situations as much as possible and try to learn different stress-reducing techniques.

5. Make sure that your partner does not have thrush before having sex.

6. Melaleuca Oil is an effective remedy for thrush. You can buy Melaleuca Oil at alternative medicine and herb stores.

7. Aside from Melaleauca Oil, another effective natural remedy for thrush is Aloe Vera gel which can also be bought in alternative medicine and herb stores. Apply the Aloe Vera gel to the affected area.

8. Avoid oral contraceptives and broad spectrum antibiotics when you feel you are susceptible to thrush.

9. Individuals suffering from iron deficiency anemia and diabetes are more susceptible to get thrush than those not suffering from these diseases. So if you suffer from these diseases you must be doubly careful in avoiding thrush.

10. Avoid alcohol, steroids and too much sugar if you feel that you are susceptible to thrush. These substances can prohibit the growth of Candida Albicans.

11. You can also put natural yogurt to the areas affected by thrush to minimize irritation. Yoghurts have ingredients that can combat inflammation.

12. Food is one of the main triggers of thrush. Avoid dried fruits, dairy products, products with yeasts, mushrooms, pickled vegetables and fruits, monosodium glutamate and smoked fish and meat as these can trigger thrush. You can also try to follow a restricted diet for at least one month. The restricted diet can help you determine the particular foods that triggers thrush. You can then avoid these foods to avoid acquiring thrush.

13. Probiotic supplements that support friendly fungi in the gut such as acidophilus are also found to be effective in treating thrush.

14. If your thrush is persistent and does not respond to home remedies then you should begin to see a doctor. You should never ignore a persistent thrush infection. Or else it could lead to a much worse condition.

Note: This article may be freely reproduced as long as the AUTHOR'S resource box at the bottom of this article is included and and all links must be Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.

About the Author:

Charlene J. Nuble 2006. For answers to All your frequently asked questions about thrush, please go to: http://thrush.candidaanswers.com/

Read more articles by: Charlene J. Nuble

This article is distributed by: www.iSnare.com

Bad Breath, Halitosis And Home Remedies

2009-03-20T05:07:00.000-07:00

Bad Breath, Halitosis And Home Remedies

Pieternel Van Giersbergen

When the Webmaster of www.breathbadgone.com asked me to write an article on halitosis (bad breath) I was thrilled. Strange, you say, that I should be enthused about the subject of halitosis (bad breath)? As an RN for over 25 years I have smelled many, many kinds of breath/ halitosis, and found that breath is a wonderful diagnostic tool. It can tell me how sick the patient is, and sometimes even what they have. I once worked with a wonderful doctor in the emergency room, who asked me what I smelled in the breath of a particular patient. We both felt we smelled a candida/yeast infection, and sure enough, that's just what it turned out to be! Bad breath/ halitosis is always a sign that something else is going on, and I'd like to share with you a few interesting cases and general principles in this regard.

I have a friend who is a sensitive person. We were sitting at a table and I asked him how his day was. He said OK, but his breath was bad and his stomach seemed upset. After I asked a few more questions he finally let on he that he'd had an argument with his employer. As he was telling his story he drank the big glass of water I had given him. And as soon as he'd unburdened his feelings and the water was gone… so was his bad breath/ halitosis. The moral of this story… dehydration and emotional issues can both affect our breath.

Many patients who come to the emergency room have bad breath. Simply giving them fluids (water or salt water intravenously) not only helps their primary condition, but the bad breath as well. You don't have to be in the Sahara desert to get dehydrated. Everyone needs to drink abundant water each day.

Small babies do not have bad breath/ halitosis when they are healthy. Bad breath (halitosis) is a sign that something is wrong and needs attention. Healthy toddlers don't have bad breath either, so when babies, toddlers or growing children develop bad breath, the following factors usually play a role: dehydration, stress, wrong foods, bad digestion and poor dental health.

Indeed, these are the same top causes of bad breath in adults, followed by digestive problems and infections, for which one should seek medical help. A great remedy for infections of all kinds, whether viral/ bacterial/ parasite and candida, or yeast, is Oil of Oregano. Oil of Oregano is an all-natural remedy that is as strong as pharmaceutical antibiotics, but with no side effects. It is also a great first aid remedy to have on hand.

I could go on and on about the distinct varieties of bad breath smells among those who drink alcohol, who smoke, who have diabetes, internal bleeding, liver diseases, or cancer. But I will spare you the unsavory details. The point is to focus on clean breath, and to heal the underlying causes of bad breath, which will give you better health and more enjoyment of your life. By welcoming bad breath/ halitosis as an opportunity to take preventive measures, you will be doing yourself a world of good.

May your breath be sweet!

Pieternel van Giersbergen

© 2005 Pieternel van Giersbergen. www.pieternel.com

About the Author:

Pieternel has been an R.N for over 25 years. She develops natural products for preventive health and is an expert on natural health issues. This article was written for www.badbreathgone.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Cure Acne Naturally In Just 3 Days

2009-03-19T05:59:00.000-07:00

Cure Acne Naturally In Just 3 Days

Peter Morgan

Look Better, Feel Better, and Raise Your Self-Esteem by Banishing Your Acne in Only 3 Days. Chris Gibson shows how to cure acne naturally, using a simple natural acne remedy can follow. Scars can be removed with this treatment too. The pain and agony of acne can now be cured in a 3 day treatment using an easy program.

Treating, removing and curing acne naturally is possible in three days. Many satisfied customers are stating similar statements to Chris who said "I didn't think I would Ever get rid of the acne that had tormented me for so long. I desperately wanted to feel better about myself. I wanted the acne Gone - so, I gave it a try. After 3 days, I woke up and made the slow walk to my bathroom mirror. I walked in with my eyes closed, and when I opened them, my jaw dropped to the floor!"

The skin care method consists of natural ingredients everyone can get a hold of. Many of the ingredients are available right in your home. It is a guaranteed method to reduce and clear acne (blackheads, whiteheads, zits, pimples). Many users have mentioned how they lost their acne overnight. Chris is so sure about this natural acne remedy that he offers a 90 Days Money Back Guarantee. Learn more http://tinyurl.com/cnb8a

Chris Gibson states, "You will find that your acne will start to disappear - if not totally be gone - at the end of 3 days. You will spend more time with your family and friends, showing off your clear skin. You will feel better and look better, and your self-confidence and self-esteem will go through the roof! Plus, you will never have to worry about having a serious acne problem again. After trying this simple, natural acne remedy, I have been acne free for over nineteen years! That is why you need something besides a cream. You need to find a system that will cure the problem from the inside out.

The cure found in our book can be applied at your house. No need to go to the doctor or spend thousands of dollars on prescription medicines.

For additional information on how to cure acne naturally go to: http://tinyurl.com/cnb8a

About the Author

Peter Morgan is a 10+ year veteran in the IT business. He is an active Real Estate Investor and a successful Internet business owner. http://tinyurl.com/cnb8a

Breast Cancer Possible Treatments

2009-03-15T07:57:00.001-07:00

Breast Cancer possible treatments

IMPORTANT FACTS

There are some simple facts that might help you understand what breast cancer is and what the possible treatments are. Understanding them and the other information in this booklet should help you face some of the decisions that lie ahead in your treatment.

First of all, remember that breast cancer is a treatable disease.

There are four kinds of treatment. One or more of these may be used for you depending upon what you need and want. The four ways of treating breast cancer are:

1. Surgery (Removing the cancer with an operation.)
2. Radiation therapy (Killing the cancer cells with special x-rays.)
3. Chemotherapy (Killing the cancer cells with drugs.)
4. Hormone therapy (Stopping the cells from growing with hormone
drugs.)

Each of these four treatments is described in more detail later in this document.

Your doctor should tell you what kind of breast cancer you have and the stage it is in (that is, if it has spread and, if so, how far it has spread).

Some breast cancer can be treated in several different ways, and you may have a choice of treatments. If your doctor tells you that you do have a choice, you should take time to decide which treatment you would prefer.

Unfortunately, some breast cancer can only be treated in one, specific way, so not all persons have a choice of treatment. Before making any decision or starting any treatment, you may wish to talk with each doctor who may be giving you a particular type of treatment:

A surgeon removes breast cancer with an operation.

A radiation oncologist gives breast cancer patients special x-rays to kill their cancer cells.

A medical oncologist treats breast cancer patients, including selecting the drugs that can be used to kill their cancer cells or stop their cancer cells from growing.

A plastic surgeon rebuilds the breasts after an operation.

You have a right to get a second opinion from another doctor if you wish.

You also may wish to participate in a clinical trial of a new or potentially improved treatment, and you should ask your doctor about these options if you are interested.

Effects of Treatment

Because it is hard to limit the effects of cancer treatments so that only cancer cells are destroyed, natural, healthy tissue also may be affected by the treatments. That's why treatment often causes significant and unpleasant side effects. The side effects you will experience will depend upon the type of treatment used on your cancer and upon the part of your body that is being treated.

If your treatment involves the removal of your breast, you may feel that your body is not balanced afterwards, especially if you have relatively large breasts. After a mastectomy, some women choose to wear a breast form, also called a prosthesis. Other women choose to have a plastic surgeon reconstruct their breast. Each choice has its advantages and disadvantages, and what is right for one woman may not be right for another. It may be helpful to talk with a plastic surgeon before your mastectomy is done, but remember: even if you decide not to have your breast reconstructed now, reconstruction is still possible years after the removal of your breast.

If your treatment involves surgery, you may find that your skin in the breast area feels tight and the muscles of your arm and shoulder feel stiff after the operation. If your breast is removed, you may find that your neck and back become uncomfortable afterwards.

Your doctor, nurse, or physical therapist can recommend exercises to help you regain movement and strength in your arm and shoulder and to help reduce the pain and stiffness in your neck and back. Carefully planned exercises should be started as soon as your surgeon says you are ready, often within a day or so after surgery. The first exercises you will do will be gentle and you will be able to do them in bed. Gradually, your exercises will become more active, and regular exercise should become a part of your normal activities.

If you have a mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction, your exercise needs will be different than if you hadn't had the immediate breast reconstruction. Your surgeon will explain the best exercise approach for you.

Because nerves are cut during surgery, you may have numbness and tingling in your chest, under your arm, and in your shoulder and arm. These problems usually go away within a few weeks, but some numbness may be permanent. The numbness should not interfere with your normal daily activities.

If you have surgery that includes the removal of lymph nodes under your arm, the flow of lymph fluid in that arm will be slowed. In some women, this means that fluid builds up in the arm and hand and causes swelling (lymphedema). This fluid build-up after surgery can be reduced or prevented with exercises and by resting with your arm propped up on a pillow so that your arm is raised above the level of your heart. If lymphedema becomes a problem later on, you should tell your doctor, who may suggest other solutions.

The removal of lymph nodes also will mean that it will be harder for your body to fight infection, so you will need to protect your arm or hand on the treated side from injury for the rest of your life.

If your treatment involves radiation therapy, you may become very tired as treatment continues. Increased rest may be necessary. Skin reactions in the breast area, such as redness or dryness, are common. Skin care is important at this time. You should not use lotions or creams on the skin without your radiation oncologist's advice. Following radiation therapy, the appearance of your treated breast may be changed.

If your treatment involves chemotherapy, the side effects you experience will depend upon the drugs that you are given. In addition, each person reacts to each drug differently.

Chemotherapy affects rapidly growing cells, such as blood-forming cells and those that line your digestive tract. As a result, you may have side effects such as a lower resistance to infection, less energy, a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth sores. You also may lose your hair, both on your scalp and on the rest of your body. Women taking chemotherapy often have the symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and irregular periods). These side effects should only be temporary during treatment. If they persist, your dose may need to be changed. However, in some instances, chemotherapy may result in permanent sterility.

Hormone therapy also can cause a number of side effects, depending upon the specific drug. When treatment interferes with your body's production or use of estrogen, you may have some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, interrupted periods, and vaginal dryness. You also may experience a weight gain. Because the usual hormones given after menopause to prevent hot flashes and osteoporosis might help your breast cancer cells grow, if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer you should not take replacement estrogen or progesterone (hormone replacement therapy) without talking with an oncologist.

DEFINITIONS OF MEDICAL TERMS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT

Adjuvant therapy (AD-ju-vant THER-a-pee): Treatment given in addition to the primary treatment.

Areola (a-REE-o-la): The area of dark-colored skin around the nipple.

Aspiration (as-per-AY-shun): Removing fluid or tissue from a lump with a needle.

Axilla (ak-SIL-a): The underarm.

Axillary node dissection: Surgical removal of some of the lymph nodes from under the arm.

Benign tumor (bee-NINE): A growth that it is not cancer; it will not spread to other parts of the body.

Biopsy (BY-op-see): The removal of a sample of tissue so it can be looked at under a microscope to see if cancer cells are present.

An excisional biopsy is surgery that is done to remove an entire lump.

An incisional biopsy is surgery that is done to remove part of the tumor.

A needle biopsy or aspiration is the removal of tissue or fluid with a needle.

Breast Reconstruction: A surgical operation in which a plastic surgeon restores the form and appearance of a breast after it has been totally or partially removed through a mastectomy.

Cancer (CAN-sir): A term for more than 100 diseases that involve uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells. Cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.

carcinoma (car-si-NO-ma): Cancer that begins in the lining or covering tissues of an organ.

Carcinoma in situ (car-si-NO-ma in SY-too): Cancer that involves only the cells in which it began and has not spread to other tissues.

Lobular carcinoma in situ is found in the lobules of the breast.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (also called intraductal carcinoma) is found in the ducts of the breast.

Chemotherapy (kee-mo-THER-a-pee): Treatment with anti-cancer drugs.

Clinical trial: Studies of cancer treatments. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to treat patients.

Cyst (sist): An abnormal sac within a tissue or organ, usually filled with fluid.

Duct: A tube in the breast through which milk passes from the lobes to the nipple.

Estrogen (ES-tro-jin): A female hormone.

Hormone replacement therapy: Hormones sometimes taken after menopause to relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and to prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bone).

External radiation: Radiation therapy that uses a machine located outside the body to aim high-energy rays at the cancer.

Fibrocystic changes: Nodularity (lumpiness) of both breasts, often accompanied by tenderness, that gradually increases with age until menopause and which may increase and decrease with the beginning and end of the monthly menstrual cycle.

Gynecologist (guy-na-KOL-o-jist): A doctor who treats diseases of the female reproductive organs.

Hormones: Chemicals produced by certain glands in the body. Hormones control the way certain cells or organs act.

Hormone receptor tests.: Laboratory tests done on breast cancer tissue that has been removed during surgery to determine whether the growth of the cancer cells in that tissue is affected by the presence of estrogen or progesterone.

Hormone therapy: Cancer treatment that involves removing, blocking, or adding hormones.

Implant radiation: Radiation therapy that places materials that contain radiation into the breast through thin plastic tubes.

Lobe: A part of the breast; each breast contains 15 to 20 lobes, arranged like the petals on a daisy.

Lobule (LOB-yool): A subdivision of the lobes of the breast; each lobule ends in dozens of tiny milk-producing bulbs.

Local treatment: Radiation therapy or surgery that affects cells in the tumor and the area close to it.

Lumpectomy (lump-EK-to-mee): Surgery that removes the breast lump; usually followed by radiation therapy.

Lymph (limf) fluid: An almost colorless fluid that bathes body tissues and carries cells that help fight infection.

Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped organs located along the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes (also called lymph glands) filter bacteria or cancer cells that may travel through the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes are one of the first places where breast cancer may spread. They are present in the armpit.

Lymphatic system (lim-FAT-ik): The tissues and organs (including the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes) that produce and store cells that fight infection; also the channels that carry lymph fluid.

Lymphedema (lim-fa-DEE-ma): Swelling of the hand or arm caused by extra fluid that may collect in tissues when lymph nodes are removed or blocked.

Malignant (ma-LIG-nant): Cancerous. (See cancer.)

Mammogram (MAM-o-gram): An x-ray of the breast. Usually, a woman has two mammograms of each breast, one taken from the side and one from the top.

Mammography (mam-OG-ra-fee): The x-ray procedure of taking a mammogram to detect breast tumors.

Mastectomy (mass-TEK-to-mee): Surgery to remove the breast.

Medical oncologist: A doctor whose specialty is treatment of cancer with medications (chemotherapy).

Menopause: The time of a woman's life when menstrual periods stop; also called "change of life".

Metastasis (me-TAS-ta-sis): The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. Cells in the metastatic tumor (the second tumor) are generally like those in the original cancer.

Modified radical mastectomy: Surgery to remove the breast, some of the skin, and some underarm lymph nodes.

Oncologist (on-KOL-o-jist): A doctor who specializes in treating cancer.

Palpation (pal-PAY-shun): A simple technique in which a health care provider lightly presses with his/her hand(s) on the surface of the body to feel the organs or tissue underneath.

Pathologist (pah-THOL-o-jist): A doctor who identifies diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.

Progesterone (pro-JES-ter-own): A female hormone.

Prosthesis (pros-THEE-sis): An artificial breast used to replace the appearance of one removed during surgery.

External prosthesis: A breast form worn under clothing.

Internal prosthesis: A breast form inserted under the skin in a surgical procedure.

Radiation oncologist: A doctor whose specialty is treating cancer with radiation (radiation therapy).

Radiation therapy (ray-dee-AY-shun THER-Apee): Treatment with high-energy rays from x-rays or other sources to kill cancer cells.

Scans: Imaging tests that allow physicians to visualize various parts of the body to help them determine if cancer is present.

Stage: The term used to describe how far the disease has spread within the body.

Staging: The process of learning whether cancer has spread from its original site to another part of the body.

Surgery: An operation.

Systemic therapy (sis-TEM-ik THER-a-pee): Treatment that reaches and affects cells all over the body.

Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue.

Ultrasound (UL-tra-sound): A test that bounces sound waves off tissues and converts the echoes into pictures. Tissues with different densities reflect sound waves differently, making it possible to tell the difference between a fluid-filled cyst and a solid mass.

Xeroradiography (zee-ro-ray-dee-OG-ra-fee): A type of mammography that records the picture of the breast on paper, rather than on film.

X-ray: High-energy radiation used in low doses to diagnose diseases and in high doses to treat cancer.

Your all health and wellness solutions, Curing attitudes of stigmatization

2009-03-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

Curing attitudes of stigmatization

A disease is an illness that affects the body (a single area or the whole system) and/or mind within a single organism (World Health Organization). Basically when a person is in a diseased state, they are no longer classified by modern and traditional medical diagnosis as healthy. Some examples of common diseases worldwide are: Influenza A virus, Asthma, HIV/AIDS, HPV, Malaria, and Sickle Cell Anemia. In addition, diseases are generally classified into three categories, which include: Genetic, infectious, and non-infectious.

As is the case with most marginalized groups, people living with a disease(s) are often discriminated against on the basis of their illness. Some researchers have linked negative cultural perceptions of diseased individuals to the common occurrence of discrimination among the ill. The validity of the previous claim remains to be confirmed, however research has shown that cultural differences between the treatment of the ill within traditional and modern societies do exist.

One way to reduce stigma and discrimination of the ill is through education and improvement of community health services and networks. Yet stigma and discrimination of the ill has existed throughout human history in almost all societies and civilizations around the globe, so eradicating its practice is no easy task.

When some of us think of disease we immediately associate it with death and rarely associate disease with life. Although this may appear to be just a matter of commonsense, having a disease does not automatically mean a death sentence. In fact many people who have suffered from a debilitating illness have accredited their disease to teaching them the true meaning of survival. Disease-related advocacy campaigns around the world have focused on survival as their central theme and message because survival signifies hope not just for a future cure but also for life itself. In the end, whether we are diseased or healthy we are all fighting to survive.

In 2006 the World Heart Federation (WHF) leaped from the dreams of a handful of global youth leaders and partners into a fruitful reality as one of the leading disease advocacy organizations in the world specializing in youth advocacy. With chapters in several nations around the world, WHF has taken their advocacy projects from national to local levels of change. Some of their project areas include: Tobacco control, developing advocacy skills, and poor diets and physical inactivity.
Of course beyond the efforts of global civil society agents, youth have also been impacted negatively by disease as in the case of millions of orphans as a result of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, the hundreds of thousands of children who die each year from Malaria and other preventable diseases, and the growing number of acquired diseases among youth in heavily polluted developed nations. As young people we may not be immune to disease, but we can work to prevent discrimination of the ill and celebrate their survival.

Treatment for breast cancer

2009-03-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

Treatment for breast cancer

Surgeon:
This is the most common treatment for breast cancer. A surgeon performs an operation to remove the cancer from your breast and usually some of the lymph nodes under your arm. A number of different operations are used:

Lumpectomy: In this operation (also called a partial mastectomy, or a segmental mastectomy), just the lump is removed from the breast. The surgeon removes a little normal breast tissue all the way around the cancer to be sure that all of the cancer is removed. Lymph nodes are removed from under the arm. This type of operation usually is followed by radiation therapy and sometimes by chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

Advantages of a lumpectomy:

Your breast will not be removed.

Disadvantages of a lumpectomy:

You will need additional treatment with x-ray therapy. You may have arm swelling.

Modified Radical Mastectomy: In this operation, the entire breast is removed, along with some skin and some underarm lymph nodes.

Advantages of a modified radical mastectomy:

You probably will not need radiation therapy.

Disadvantages of a modified radical mastectomy:

Your entire breast and some of your skin will be removed. You may have arm swelling.

Total Mastectomy: In this operation, the entire breast is removed, but usually not the lymph nodes.

Advantages of a total mastectomy:

You probably will not need radiation therapy.

Disadvantages of a total mastectomy:

The surgeon removes a little normal breast tissue all the way around the cancer to be sure that all of the cancer is removed.

Your entire breast and some of your surrounding skin will be removed.

Breast Reconstruction: This is additional surgery done to rebuild (reconstruct) your breast. It may be done either at the same time as your breast is removed or at a later time. You may want to visit a plastic surgeon before making your final decision.

Support for Breast Cancer Patients
earning to live with the changes that are brought about by having breast cancer is easier for you and for those who love you when you have helpful information and support services. Often, a social worker at your hospital or clinic can suggest local and national groups that will help you with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care.

The American Cancer Society (ACS), for example, has many services for cancer patients and their families. Their "Reach to Recovery" program offers special help for mastectomy patients. Trained volunteers, who have had breast cancer themselves, will visit you at your doctor's request and lend emotional support to you before and after your treatment. They will talk with you and share their own experiences with breast cancer treatment, rehabilitation, and breast reconstruction or fitting of breast forms. Your social worker or nurse can make a formal referral for you to the "Reach to Recovery" program at the time of your surgery.

Another resource for women who have had breast cancer surgery is "ENCORE". Sponsored by the YWCA, this program includes exercise to music, water exercises, and a discussion period. You may join this group after surgery, with your doctor's approval.

Information about other programs and services for breast cancer patients and their families is available through both the Meyer L. Prentis Comprehensive Cancer Center (toll-free: 800-4-CANCER) and the American Cancer Society Cancer Response Service (toll-free: 800-227-2345). Your local American Cancer Society office will have information about local programs and services. Another resource that you may use to find out about breast cancer programs in your community is your local hospital Social Work Department.
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HOW BREAST CANCER IS DIAGNOSED
t is important to remember that four out of five breast lumps are not cancer. To diagnose breast cancer, a careful physical examination is done, including palpation of your breast, and you are asked about your personal and family history. One or more of these tests may also be done:

Aspiration: In this procedure, your doctor will use a thin needle to remove fluid or a small amount of tissue from your breast lump. This may show whether the lump is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass.

Mammography: In this examination, x-rays will be taken of your breast that can give both you and your doctor important information about your breast lump. A mammogram also can show any tumors you may have in your breast that are still too small to be felt. However, mammograms do not show all breast cancers.

Ultrasound: In this test, sometimes called a sonogram, high-frequency sound waves are sent into your breast. The pattern of echoes is shown on a monitor, like a TV screen. Ultrasound examination may be used to distinguish fluid-filled cysts from solid tumors.

Biopsy: A biopsy is surgery to take out part, or all, of a lump or suspicious area. After being removed, the tissue is examined under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy is the only sure way to know whether cancer is present. If you are going to have a biopsy, you have an important choice to make.

a. One-step procedure: You can decide that, if cancer is found, you will have surgery to treat your cancer at the same time as the biopsy (a one-step procedure).

b. Two-step procedure: Or, you can decide on only a biopsy and, if it shows cancer, have treatment at a later date. This gives you time to find out about your treatment choices, to get a second opinion, and to prepare for your stay in the hospital, but it does not reduce the chances for successful treatment. Many doctors and patients prefer the two-step procedure, and it is the most common approach.

Hormone receptor tests: If the biopsy shows that cancer is present, laboratory tests called estrogen and progesterone receptor tests are usually done on the tissue removed during the biopsy. These tests can tell whether these hormones help your particular kind of cancer to grow. This information helps your doctor decide whether hormone treatment is likely to be useful in your case.

If your biopsy shows that your lump is cancer, your doctor may order other special laboratory tests to learn more about the cancer. Your doctor may order chest x-rays, blood tests, and/or scans to determine whether or not the cancer has spread from your breast to other parts of your body. These tests help your doctor tell the extent, or stage, of the disease. Doctors use this staging system for breast cancer:

Carcinoma in situ

If you have carcinoma in situ (non-invasive breast cancer), you may have a mastectomy or breast-sparing surgery. As with other breast cancers, the type of surgery that is best for you is based upon many factors. Also, depending upon the specific type of breast cancer involved, your doctor may need to remove some of your lymph nodes, and also may advise you to have radiation therapy.

Stage I and Stage II

If your breast cancer is diagnosed as early stage breast cancer (Stage I and H), your treatment choices may include a mastectomy or limited surgery (such as a lumpectomy or partial mastectomy), followed by radiation therapy. Some of the lymph nodes under your an-n also are removed. The type of surgery you will need depends upon the size and location of your tumor, the type of cancer you have, your age, your general health, and the size of your breast.

If you have early stage breast cancer, chemotherapy or hormone therapy may be considered after primary treatment. This additional treatment is called adjuvant therapy. It is used to help prevent the cancer from returning by killing undetectable cells that may remain in your body. The choice between chemotherapy or hormone therapy depends upon your age, your menopausal status, your hormone receptor status, and other factors.

Until recently, women whose underarm lymph nodes were free of cancer usually received no additional treatment because they had a good chance of survival. But, scientists now know that cancer may return in some of these women. Therefore, adjuvant therapy may be recommended in these cases.

Stage III

If you are diagnosed as having Stage IV breast cancer, you probably will have both local and systemic treatment. Your local treatment may be a mastectomy and/or radiation therapy. Your systemic therapy will be chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy.

Stage IV

Most women who have Stage IV breast cancer receive chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy. They also may have limited surgery or radiation therapy to control their breast tumor. If you have Stage IV breast cancer, your doctor also may want to use radiation to treat any cancer that has spread to other parts of your body.

Radiation Therapy as a "PRIMARY TREATMENT"

This treatment is done by a radiation oncologist who uses high doses of radiation to kill any cancer cells which might remain. 'Me radiation may come from a machine outside your body (external radiation) or it may actually be put into your breast through a small tube (implant radiation). For some women, both ways are used. An extra "boost" of radiation is usually given to the tumor site. The boost may be either external or internal (using an implant).

Advantages of radiation therapy:

Your breast will not have to be removed.

Disadvantages of radiation therapy:

The treatment is usually done 5 days a week for 5 to 8 weeks.

Radiation therapy is usually only available at large hospitals or medical centers, so you may have to travel outside your community for treatment.

There may be a temporary skin reaction similar to sunburn, and daily skin care will be required.

You can have arm swelling.

There may be long-term changes in the appearance and texture of your breast and the skin over your breast.

[OOT] Breaking News, I Join Blogsvertise !!

2009-03-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

Hi all, i recently join blogsvertise, and its look great, and hope with this program i can make some more money, and how about you guys ??? just try and nothing to lose, right ??

How Blogsvertise Works:

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2. You write up an entry in your blog about the internet advertiser however you want! You can review the site, compliment it, relate to it somehow in your daily life, or even complain about it, and link to the website in your blog/journal entry.

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Are you an Early Bird or a Night Owl – and how that can make or break your business success?

2009-03-10T05:48:00.000-07:00

Are you an Early Bird or a Night Owl – and how that can make or break your business success?

Lynette van Greunen

Early Birds are typically the people who love to get up at the crack of dawn and generally use the rising sun as their natural alarm clock.

It does not take much to get them out of bed and once their feet hit the floor, well they are almost instantly ready to start doing whatever needs to be done.

Some might turn on the tunes, singing along happily and are up to date on world news before the sun has even peek its entire head over the horizon…

Around midday, their chirpy mood starts to wane, making way for the unexplained grumpiness that starts to set in. By the time the sun is getting ready to retire for the day, the bed is about the only place that will welcome their company…

These Early Bird individuals need "wind down" activities at night. Now, meet the Night Owls, who need "wind down" activities in the morning….

We are all aware that everything in nature has an opposite, so it goes without saying that the Night Owls have a rightful place in this world too…

These are the individuals that need a really loud sounding alarm clock to jolt them from their dreams. The snooze button must be unmistakably big and easy to hit with eyes still tightly closed.

Getting up early is not a pleasant experience for them. Given the slightest chance they will gladly doze until well into the morning.

When they eventually venture out of bed, they seem to daze around for a few more hours before they manage to get themselves dressed and ready for the day.

Generally, they will find some errands or effortless chores to pass the first half of the day. By midday, they are usually ready to take a little nap…

But once they awake from the nap, there is no stopping them. Their minds start racing in a frenzied fashion from the one project to the other and they start performing miracles, working well into the night, seemingly effortless…

If you are considering starting your own business, it is vitally important to determine when you work best and to choose a business that allows you to work when you are at your peak performance levels.

When you work for yourself, there is no paycheck just for showing up to work! No, you actually have to produce concrete results in order to get paid.

Running your own business is no joke, but the rewards are worth far more than the initial effort that you have to put in. But, here is a little known secret for you…

If your business requires you to work against your inborn natural performance pattern, you will most probably fail no matter how hard you try. It is really as simple as that.

Look at it this way, if the business requires you to make important sales calls first thing in the morning, the Night Owl will surely fail because he simply won't feel ready for that type of pressure first thing in the morning.

Similarly, if the business requires sales calls that can only be done after hours, the Early Bird will fail simply because he is not at his peak performance levels at night.

In both cases, the individuals will start experiencing high levels of frustration and start thinking that they are not capable of doing what it takes to succeed and many will likely quit trying at this point.

But in reality, both individuals could have had success, had they been working with their natural inborn performance patterns. Some business owners need to find a system that allows them to work during regular office hours, while for others they need a system that allows them to work after hours.

So, where do you start to find a business that allows you that type of flexibility. E-commerce is the answer. It allows you to take full control of every minute you feel like working, no matter what the time of day or night is.

Early Birds and Night Owls alike can operate at full potential 24/7 and it is the only business solution where it is never too late or too early to grow your business into the successful venture you have always longed for.

Starting your own business will definitely be the best thing that you could ever do for yourself. For tips on how to naturally energize your environment while you are working, sleeping or relaxing, please visit http://www.naturalindoorwaterfountains.com for some great information on the positive benefits of negative ions.

About the Author

Lynette is the webmaster for http://www.naturalindoorwaterfountains.com where she teaches you how to energize your surroundings naturally in order to be more productive, therefore more successful, in all your undertakings.

Anxiety Disorder Treatments: The Best Herbal Remedies for Anxiety

2009-03-10T05:38:00.000-07:00

Anxiety Disorder Treatments: The Best Herbal Remedies for Anxiety

by Tess Thompson

Anxiety disorders are the most common of all mental health
disorders and affect the lives of millions of people every year,
including approximately 19 million in the U.S. alone. If you are
one of them, you may wonder if your symptoms are standard, and
if there are behavioral and medical treatments that might be
effective for you. While everyone experiences anxiety in some
form -- perhaps before giving a public presentation or in the
midst of major life changes -- those with anxiety disorders
experience it unusally often and irrationally.

There are many different types of anxiety disorders, each of
which have unique features, but all of them share the symptoms
of dread and excessive fear. Five common types are panic
disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress
disorder, social anxiety disorder and generalized anxiety
disorder. As with most disorders, each individual will
experience symptoms slightly differently, and response to
treatment will vary as well. While there are prescription
medications for anxiety, for those who are wary of the side
effects there also exist natural treatments for anxiety which
contain herbal ingredients that can produce equally positive
effects.

Passion flower (or Passiflora Incarnata) is a natural ingredient
that is often used for anxiety relief, as well as to treat
hyperactivity, insomnia, nervous tension and even Parkinson's
Disease. Passion flower helps to calm and soothe and is believed
to be able to reduce nervous tremors and lower high blood
pressure.

Lavendar (or Lavandula Augustifolia) is one of the most popular
natural ingredients for treatment of a variety of conditions,
including anxiety disorder. Lavendar is a general tonic for the
nervous system and is well-known for it's calming properties,
making it among the most effective of natural panic attack
treatments. The active ingredients in lavendar are tannins,
flavinoids, coumarins, triterponoids and volatile oil.

Lemon Balm (or Melissa Officinalis) is a natural ingredient that
is used as a resorative for the nervous system and also calms
the digestive system and reduces blood pressure. Lemon Balm has
also been used to treat Grave's disease (hyperthyroidism), and
to treat depression and insomnia.

There are no quick fixes for anxiety disorder and anxiety
disorder treatments should usually focus heavily on behavioral
therapy. No matter how many times you might hear that you "worry
too much" or that you should relax, your symptoms are not
character flaws but indications of a serious disorder that is
not your fault. Anxiety disorder is caused by biological,
physiological and genetic factors, and may make your life seem
stressful and difficult. There are many others like you who have
found effective treatment through therapy, medication, herbal
remedies for anxiety or some combination of the aforementioned,
and you too have the ability to overcome your disorder to lead a
happier, healthier life.

Webmaster: You are authorized to reprint this article
providing the author bio/resource box is left completely in tact
- including all hyperlinks.

About the author:

Tess Thompson is a Homeopathic Practitioner and Herbalist who
contributes to Native
Remedies - where you can find Herbal Remedies for health
conditions including natural A
nxiety treatment and h
erbal remedy for Depression.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis

2009-03-09T03:22:00.000-07:00

Dermatitis Herpetiformis

The cause of a skin growth, rash or blemish isn’t always known by doctors or dermatologist. While some skin conditions are present at birth there are others that can develop as a person gets older and becomes exposed to more things.

Also known as Duhring’s disease, dermatitis herpetiformis is an uncommon disease that is characterized by a rash that is red and extremely itchy with small clusters of bumps and watery blisters. A burning or stinging sensation may also be felt around the area for some individuals. At times the itching can be unbearable and the urge to scratch can be overwhelming. However, scratching can lead to secondary infections so individuals should be careful. Eventually they will heal and form a scab that will eventually fall off. Even with treatments there is a strong possibility that new bumps and blisters will appear. The condition is often associated with individuals who have sensitivity to glutens. Glutens are a type of protein found in wheat, rye and barley products. It is not a contagious disease and can be referred to as Celiac Disease.
Who Can Get Them?

Individuals of Northern European descent seem to be affected. Both men and women can get it although it seem to be more common in men. After the age of twenty it will usually start although the ailment can affect children.
What Can Cause Them?

It is unknown exactly what causes dermatitis herpetiformis. Individuals who have a sensitivity to gluten type products are frequently associated with the condition. It helps to narrow down the types of treatments available once this is determined.
How Does It Happen?

It can be caused by a reactions to a protein found in cereals and other products known as gluten. When gluten from your food is combined with immunoglobulin A and they circulate in your blood stream a rash occurs. Eventually the small blood vessels of your skin are clogged up and a chemical called complements is released which creates the rash. Small bumps and blisters then appear. For the person with this skin disorder the rash can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
Where Do They Appear?

Typically it appears at the pressure points of the body such as the elbows, knees, scalp, back and buttocks. They can appear on both the front and back of an affected area. Other locations can be affected but the severity in each location can be different. After it clears up it can leave a brown spot.
What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis include a particularly itchy red, rash that consist of bumps and blisters. The symptoms seem to get worse many times before they start to get better.
How Can It Be Diagnosed?

A skin biopsy and a immunfluorescence test is done by a doctor or dermatologist to diagnose dermatitis herpetiformis. A piece of the inflicted area is removed and examined under a microscope with a biopsy. Doctors use the technique immunofluorescence in order to label different antibodies with fluorescent dyes. A doctor may also refer individuals to a gastroenterologist to see if the intestines have a gluten problem. To confirm the diagnosis a blood test will be done.
What Treatments Are Available?

Without treatment the blisters and rash will go away. To help with the itching of the rash some ointments and creams are given. A drug called dapsone can be prescribed by a doctor which is an antibiotic that helps relieve the symptoms of this ailment with a day or two. There are some side effects to this drug so your doctor will watch for these. Treatment may need to continue throughout an individual’s life. Individuals may also have to be put on a gluten-free diet to control the disorder if gluten is found to be the cause.

Individuals should check themselves for skin growths, rashes and blemishes. Children should be checked by adults periodically as well. It is recommend that a doctor see you as soon as possible if anything appears since in cases like dermatitis herpetiformis there can be an underlying cause. Since it can lead to other illnesses if not treated properly this condition should be watched carefully.

What are Stem Cells?

2009-03-09T03:20:00.000-07:00

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are primitive cells in the body that can multiply and mature into various cell types or organs.

Stem Cells can be divided into embryonic stem cells and the “adult” (somatic) cells. Embryonic stem cells are found in the early stages of a developing embryo and although they are probably the most potent of stem cells, their use can be controversial.

“Adult” (somatic) stem cells are stem cells found in the various organs once the body had been formed after the embryo stage. Practically every organ has its own stem cells, for example blood stem cells, fat stem cells, heart muscle stem cells, nerve stem cells, skin stem cells etc. These respective stem cells will grow and mature into their respective cells or organs. In some organs, these stem cells become inactive once the organ is fully developed while others, like blood stem cells are continuously active.

Differentiation of a Stem Cell
Blood stem cells can be found in cord blood, bone marrow and in peripheral circulation (peripheral blood). These blood stem cells will grow and develop into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. These cells perform important functions such as carrying oxygen (red), fighting infections (white) and preventing bleeding (platelets).

Why are Stem Cells so important in the field of Medicine?
In the 1960s, blood stem cells were first used in the fight against cancer. Blood stem cells from the Bone Marrow were used in Bone Marrow Transplants (BMT) for patients with leukemia.
In the initial years, this treatment modality was not very successful but in subsequent years and decades, BMT (now collectively known as Stem Cell Transplant or SCT) became a life-saving treatment option in the fight against leukemia and various other types of cancers/blood disorders. Due to the need for stem cells, research and development led to the discovery of stem cells in cord blood and hence, Cord Blood Transplants.

Anxiety and Depression - Natural Antidepressants for Mood Boosting

2009-03-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

Anxiety and Depression - Natural Antidepressants for Mood Boosting

Danna Schneider

Millions of people, especially in the United States, are
currently suffering the symptoms of depression, and have even
gone as far as taking prescription antidepressants that may have
harmful side effects and dampen the quality of their life in
other ways in the hopes it will just go away.

The fact is, many prescription antidepressant drugs do have
undesirable side effects that really can affect other areas of
your life, but they are looked at by many as "the lesser of two
evils". It's better to not be depressed and anxious, even if you
do suffer side effects such as headache, nausea, and decreased
sexual function, right?

Wrong! There is a better way to manage stress, anxiety and
depression - naturally and without man-made drugs or narcotics.
This natural antidepressant remedy actually contains several
pure botanicals, natural compounds and herbs that work in unison
to balance mood, elevate our natural "antidepressant" chemicals
in the brain, maintain even blood sugar levels (which believe it
or not, has actually produced weight loss and belly fat loss in
many who have taken it), and promote an overall sense of well
being and peace.

This product is an excellent remedy for calming anxiety and
depression. There are also lifestyle tips that will help you
fight depression, anxiety and stress. Number one on that list is
- you guessed it - moderate exercise. Now I don't mean you have
to do aerobics until you drop, but a nice, steady flow of
cardiovascular exercise like walking, jogging, biking, or
another form of low impact exercise is an excellent way to
manage these symptoms, while also promoting a healthy blood
pressure level, a healthy heart, and bodily strength and
endurance.

Yoga, forms of slow dance, tai chi, and other meditation-type
exercise is also an excellent way to manage stress, anxiety and
depression. These types of meditative exercises promote healthy
bodily functions, a healthy state of mind, and mental focus,
which are key factors in supporting a healthy sense of well
being and peace.

If you have a desk job, make it a point to get up and walk
around once every hour. Inactivity is one of the biggest
perpetuators of depression and anxiety. The human body was
designed to be in frequent motion, not to sit all day. So go,
get a drink of water, walk some stairs, or take a little walk
outside whenever you get the opportunity. You'll be amazed by
what physical activity will do for your mental state.

Lastly, take some time for yourself. Every night, take a little
time out of your schedule for yourself. Whether it is reading a
book, writing in a diary or journal, taking a walk outside, or
doing anything else you enjoy, just do it. Getting a little dose
of genuine joy or peace in your day is key to being a happy and
well-balanced person.

With these few lifestyle guidelines in mind, don't let
depression and anxiety destroy your quality of life. Everyone
deserves to live a happy, fulfilled life without the need for
prescription anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs. If you need
help, but do not want the common side effects of depression
medication, I highly encourage you to take a look at this
effective new product.

About the author:

Danna Schneider is the founder of Herbal Therapeutic
Supplements and Remedies, a nutraceutical information
site focusing on the latest and most effective in natural life
improvement and enhancement products. Visit
Mood Enhancers for more information on this natural
antidepressant.

An Udderly Ridiculous Home Remedy

2009-03-01T05:58:00.000-08:00

An Udderly Ridiculous Home Remedy

Doug Smith

Copyright 2005 by Doug Smith

Home Remedies - Facts or Quacks?

That's what I recently asked myself. Myths and legends often
have their basis in a grain of truth. So I wondered if home
remedies, alternative treatments, and folklore cures might
also be based on truth. A little research provided these
astounding results!

Itching For A Cure

Edward Jenner is widely credited as the father of the smallpox
vaccination. However, twenty years earlier in 1774, a quick-
thinking English farmer named Benjamin Jesty saved his family
from smallpox using some pretty unorthodox methods.

Waiting Until The Cows Come Home

In 1774 the highly infectious and deadly smallpox disease was
epidemic. Farmer Jesty, immune to the disease because he had
survived it in childhood, feared for the lives of his pregnant
wife and children. Many country folk knew that people who had
previously caught the milder disease of cowpox from an infected
cow did not catch the normally-fatal smallpox disease.

A Desperate Plan

Frantic to find a solution before his family caught the disease,
Jesty took his family to a nearby farm where cows were infected
with cowpox. He injected his family with diseased cowpox cells
from the cows. Because vacca is Latin for cow, this procedure
later became known as vaccination.

This Isn't Bull

The mild cowpox disease came and went in the children. His
pregnant wife had complications and required the aid of the
local doctor. His family did not catch the deadly smallpox
disease, but word leaked out. Poor Jesty was ridiculed by
his neighbors, who expected his family to turn into cows,
or at least grow horns!

Edward Jenner was a tireless crusader in promoting the
benefits of smallpox vaccination. However, it was a
desperate farmer who used his quick wit and country
folklore to save his family 20 years earlier.

Regardless of who history credits, this home remedy
definitely rates as a fact rather than a quack!

(You may reuse this copyrighted article provided no content
is changed - other than line length - and the author's box is
intact. All links must be active hyperlinks or made active.)

================================================================
Doug Smith is a Chemical Engineer and the webmaster of
http://www.SuperHomeRemedies.com You get free & natural home
remedies for fungus, lice, acid reflux, cold sores, yeast & more
at Home Remedies
Stay up to date with our Home Remedy News Blog at Home Remedies News
================================================================

About the Author

Doug Smith is a Chemical Engineer and the webmaster of
http://www.SuperHomeRemedies.com You get free & natural home
remedies for fungus, lice, acid reflux, cold sores, yeast & more.

ANOTHER COLD SORE! WHY ME?

2009-03-01T05:56:00.000-08:00

ANOTHER COLD SORE! WHY ME?

Dan Adams

An estimated 85 million Americans have acquired the herpes simplex (COLD SORE) virus. And the majority had received the virus before the age of three.

Not such a big surprise when you realize how many loving Uncles, Aunts and nephew just can't resist that cute little Kissy Kissy baby. Which is exactly how the Herpes Simplex virus is passed along. That innocent little hug and kiss is all it takes to inject a lifetime of the Herpes Simplex virus.

Generally a cold sore will run from 5 to 15 days in its various stages. They will range from a tiny split to an enormous sized seeping scab.

If the virus has gained strong immunities against your antibodies then you will be prone to repeated outbreaks.

Unlike the sexually transmitted Herpes virus there is little to worry about with the Herpes Simplex virus other than an occasional lip sore that can grow to the size of a watermelon
and cause every living being to stare at you like you have a 12 inch nose growing out the side of your face.

So the first question to pop into your mind might be, "is there a cure"? No. The herpes simplex virus is very
versatile and can adapt to just about anything you can throw at it. It will adapt and become stronger with each form of treatment.

Which brings us to question two. "Is there any particular remedy that has proven to stop or control cold sore outbreaks". Accepting the fact that what was just said in the proceeding
paragraph the answer would be yes and no.

Because most immune changes of the virus are minor it leaves it open to possible treatments by various antibiotics and many natural remedies which can temporarily halt an outbreak. However, again the virus will quickly adapt to many of these treatments making them useless on the next outbreak.

So, yes some treatments will work on most outbreaks but there will definitely be a stage of herpes simplex virus immune syndrome that will eventually make most all present
day treatments ineffective. Simply meaning the more you try to treat the outbreaks with various medications the
sooner you will reach the stage where no treatment will help.

You must also keep in mind that your present overall health conditions and other variables may temporarily slow or stop a remedy from working. So it may not always be the virus but your present health condition that blocks any remedy from working what is your solution for cold sore outbreaks?
If you have the simple small split type sore just let it run the course. Your body will develop antibodies to overpower the virus outbreak which will help keep new outbreaks from happening so repeatedly.

However if you have the major Mt Saint Helen's size outbreak then you can try the various medications and treatments in hopes that you will hit the right one.

A rule of thumb would be not to use remedies that you have recently used in the past simply because of the likelihood that the virus has already become immune to it.

For a list of cold sore medications and home remedies see:
http://www.bnbmarketing.net/coldsoreremedies.htm

About the Author

About the author:
Dan Adams is the founder of BnB Associates, Inc. His company has offered natural oxygenated skin and health remedies since 1996. http://www.bnbassociates.us
mailto:ceo@bnbmarketing.net

Back Pain & Muscle Pain - Effective Nonprescription Pain Relief

2009-02-27T04:07:00.000-08:00

Back Pain & Muscle Pain - Effective Nonprescription Pain Relief

Danna Schneider

Pain and Stress. They seem almost to go hand in hand - not only
in their negative connotation, but also in their biological
causes and triggers. Back pain and muscle pain is typically
caused by inflammation in the proximity where the pain
originated, which in turn creates internal pressure, activating
pain receptors in the nerve endings and sending the signal
(registered as varying levels of discomfort) to the brain.

Some people are born with a naturally higher tolerance to pain -
what's been dubbed the "pain threshold". Then there are the rest
of us, who have normal or low pain thresholds and if chronic
back pain, muscle pain, or nerve related pain or illness were to
be introduced into our lives, we would be forced to be a
prisoner to "the bottle". The "bottle" being one of the many
prescription painkillers or narcotics prescribed to so many
suffering daily, chronic muscle pain and nerve related pain.

So there must be a better way to control the pain, and manage it
successfully without constant reliance on and possible addiction
to prescription pain medication? And there is. Along with an
excellent new naturopathic, herbal pain remedy recently
introduced to consumers, there are several things you can do to
manage pain effectively, and in turn even reduce stress and
improve your overall mental and physical health - all of which
are key factors in successful pain management.

On of the best ways to manage stress and in turn reduce pain, is
to employ some sort of low impact, muscle soothing exercise,
like basic yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics. These types of
exercises not only stretch the muscles and keep them limber and
lithe, but they effectively "massage" and calm muscles, have
very little impact on joints, strength the supportive muscles of
the back, and can even help reduce inflammation in the body. The
mind-body connection is very strong, there is no doubt - just
start an exercise routine like this and I guarantee your mood,
pain and anxiety virtually melt away.

Exercise also releases and creates endorphins, which are a
natural "antidote" to pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue and
depression. The release of endorphins can actually reverse the
negative effects these afflictions can have on your body. If
you're a habitual exerciser, think of how you lethargic you feel
after a few days of inactivity, and you'll understand this
concept! Inactivity is one of the biggest underlying causes and
perpetuators of worsening pain, lethargy, depression and
anxiety.

Meditation is also a great method to reduce pain, anxiety and
the host of other undesirable problems so prevalent in America
today. Like yoga, and other relaxation techniques, meditation
allows you to focus only on you, your breathing, and your body.
This faciliatates the "harmonizing" of the body and the mind,
the ultimate feeling of well-being, vitality, and tranquility,
all of which will help you manage pain and stress. This will
keep your mind sharp, focused, and better able to deal with the
daily stress life can sometimes bring.

Combine these few simple lifestyle habits with the use of an
herbal pain remedy where needed, or even just employ these
habits alone, and I guarantee, pain will not only be easier to
cope with when it rears it's ugly head, but also will be reduced
greatly in it's severity and frequency. It quite simply is a
necessity to living pain free.

About the author:

Danna Schneider is the founder of Natural Remedies
and Cures. Visit Effective Natural Pain Reliever for more
information on this natural pain relief alternative.

Herbal Menopause Treatments

2009-02-26T06:35:00.000-08:00

Herbal Menopause Treatments

Ratliff J

Herbal Menopause Remedy
Menopause is a transition that marks the stop of menstruation. Although this is a life change which should be embraced as another stop in life's natural stages, some women's experience with menopause has more to do with pain and discomfort. Since the 1960's physicians have prescribed estrogen supplements to reduce hot flashes and other menopausal problems. However, as with most drugs, hormonal therapy is not without risk. There is, in fact, an increased incidence of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, stroke, heart attack, and uterine fibroids. According to scientific research and observation, many women get as much relief from vitamins and herbal remedy as they do from hormonal drugs.

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Herbal Menopause Remedy Products we recommend include:

Menocore - Menocore is a botanical alternative medicine formulation which contains a blend of all natural herbal extracts developed to ease the transition and provide effective Menopause Symptoms Relief from the onset and duration of typical menopausal symptoms. Menocore has been developed as a natural alternative support product, formulated with the best-known combination of high-potency phytoestrogen botanicals which have a long empirical history of relieving menopausal symptoms, and supporting the body's hormonal balance.

Triatone - The ingredients of Triatone: Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Licorice Root, Chasleberry, and Isoflavones - Have all been proven to help reduce hot flashes associated with menopause. Soy ingredients such as these, help produce isoflavones which have similar properties to human estrogen. Isoflavones can bind to the body's estrogen receptors and help offset the drop in estrogen that occurs during menopause.

MellowPause - While soy has been shown to have positive effect on hormone balancing, MellowPause's combination of ingredients make it effective for not only hormone balancing, but helps with other menopausal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings and insomnia.

Menopause is the point at which a woman stops ovulating and menstruation ceases, indicating the end of fertility. Menopause is as natural a progression in life as puberty. For most women, natural hormone production begins to slow down when they reach their thirties, and continues to diminish as they age. Many women experience few if any symptoms during this time but others may suffer from some or all of the following; anxiety, dry skin, fatigue, feelings of bloating, headaches, heart palpitations, hot flashes, insomnia, irritability decreases interest in sex, loss of concentration, mood swings, night sweats, reduces stamina, urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness and itching and weight gain.

Learn more about hebal menopause remedies at Herbal Menopause.

About the Author

J. Ratliff is an avid health writer for Askwellness.com.

Home remedies for asthma.

2009-02-26T04:16:00.000-08:00

Home remedies for asthma.

For some people asthma might not seem too serious of a disease. Although rarely fatal, it can be a very serious condition, especially in small children. Periods of acute breathlessness may occur at any time and last anywhere from less then an hour to days. At those periods the help of medical professionals might be necessary. For the times in between there are some proven herbal treatments and remedies that may also be helpful.

The diet of people with asthma should contain about 60% of fruit and vegetables.

Take 100 g of dry rose petals, 500 g of raw mashed pumpkin, 5-7 dry plantain leaves, 4 tbsp of honey and 1 L of red wine. Combine everything in a pot and bring to boil (do not boil). Let stand for 24 hours and filter, squeezing out juice from the mash. Take 1 tbsp 5-6 times a day. Repeat twice a year.

Mix together equal parts of coltsfoot, wild rosemary and plantain. Put 1 tbsp of the mix in a cup and add boiling water. Let stand for awhile. Drink 1/3 of a cup 3 times a day 30 min before meal.

Combine 100 g of grated horseradish and juice of 3 lemons. Take 1 tsp in the morning and afternoon. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 min after taking it. Juice of 10 lemons, juice of 10 heads of garlic and 1 L of honey mix together. Keep in dark place under tight lid for 1 week. Take 2 tbsp 3 times a day 30 min before meal.

300 g of honey, 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of crushed aloe leaf boil at low heat for 2 hours. Stir well and keep in cool place. Take 1 tbsp 3 times a day. Put 1 tbsp of eucalyptus leaves in 1/2 L of boiling water. Let stand for 20 min and drink 50-100 ml 3 times a day before meal.

Put 1 tbsp of coltsfoot in 400 ml of boiling water. Let stand for 1 hour, filter and drink 1 tbsp 4-6 times a day.

Mix together equal parts of celery juice and honey, collected in May. Take 1 tbsp 4-5 times a day.

Collect 40 leaves of coltsfoot. Boil 1 leaf for 15 min in a cup of water. Drink in the morning before breakfast. Repeat for 40 days.

Add 5 mashed cloves of garlic to 100 g of butter and mix well. Eat like regular butter, spreading it on bread. Provides anti-bacterial effect. This asthma remedy can't be used by pregnant women.

Mix together mashed garlic and horseradish (100 g of each), 150 g of butter and 600 g of honey. Warm the mix up in double boiler till honey dissolves. Keep in dark cool place tightly covered. Take 1 tbsp 1 hour prior to meal for 2 months. If needed, repeat the treatment after 1 month’s rest.

5 g of dry crushed quince leaves put in 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 1 hour. Strain and take 2 tbsp 3-4 times a day before meal. The remedy can ease up asthma attack.

2 tbsp of mashed turnip put in 1 cup of boiling water and boil for 15 min. Filter and drink ¼ cup 4 times a day or 1 cup before bed.

Glyconutrients might help your asthma. Nearly fifteen million American adults suffer from asthma and the Environmental Health Commission predicts that number will increase to twenty-nine million by 2020. People may soon look to natural help in "glyconutrients".

Herbal Beauty Guide

The diet of people with asthma should contain about 60% of fruit and
vegetables.

Detox To Lose Weight

2009-02-25T06:14:00.000-08:00

Detox To Lose Weight

Sandra Kim Leong

Detoxification programs have been promoted as the remedy to today's unhealthy lifestyles for years. Proponents of detoxification note that a good detox can help increase energy, slow the aging process, aid the digestive system and help relieve the symptoms of diabetes and asthma. One of the greatest benefits of a good detoxification program is weight loss.

Our bodies are equipped with several systems to help it naturally detox. However, today's stressful lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits often overburden our natural systems. As our body struggles to keep up with the toxic matter flowing through our systems it often falls behind. Toxic waste begins to back up and the balance of our body is disrupted.

A good detox will help restore the body's balance, eliminate the waste building up and make our systems run much more efficiently. During autopsies, coroners often find colons that are more than 75% clogged with waste matter. This causes the systems that clean our blood and intestinal tracts to back up. Nutrients can't be absorbed as efficiently and we gain weight, become tired and irritable. Health issues often follow.

Cleaning the colon and the liver often completely relieves these clogs and allows our bodies to return to optimum functioning. Nutrients are used efficiently and many find that the detox program has such great results that they simply don't crave sugar and fried foods after the detoxification. Many report feeling so good after detoxifying that they are motivated to eat more carefully.

With the toxins being flushed out of the body, many report a dramatic increase in energy level, encouraging many to exercise and further assist their detox in reducing weight.

Researchers have found that as the level of toxins in the body rises, more fat is manufactured to protect the body. Weight gain is a natural by-product of toxin buildup. Removing the toxins from the body allows the body to release the excess fat, resulting in a natural weight loss.

There are many detoxification programs on the market. Choose a gentle, well researched program that includes a parasite remover as well. You'll be pleasantly surprised at your increased energy and amount of weight loss!

About The Author

Sandra Kim Leong publishes information on detoxification and cleansing. Her site includes information on colon cleansing, liver cleansing, kidney cleansing, detox diets and juice fasting. Please visit http://www.Detox-Cleansing.com

Diabetes Herbal Remedy Works Better Than Insulin?

2009-02-25T05:35:00.000-08:00

Diabetes Herbal Remedy Works Better Than Insulin?

Doug Smith

It is another case of a home remedy waiting to be discovered. A new study suggests that a traditional Indian diabetes herb treatment lowers blood sugar and insulin levels as well as today's prescription drugs.

39 healthy adults received extracts of the herb Salacia oblonga with promising results. Insulin and blood glucose levels were lowered by a maximum of 29 and 23 percent, respectively. These reductions occurred when test subjects received the largest dose of the herb extract (1,000 mg).

"These kinds of reductions are similar to what we might see with prescription oral medications for people with diabetes," said Steve Hertzler, a study co-author and an assistant professor of nutrition at Ohio State University.

Salacia oblonga is an herb native to regions of India and Sri Lanka. Researchers found that it can bind to intestinal enzymes that convert carbohydrates into glucose. If the herb binds to these enzymes before the enzymes can turn carbs into glucose, then less glucose sugar enters the bloodstream. Therefore less insulin is required.

"Lowering blood glucose levels lowers the risk of disease-related complications in people with diabetes," Hertzler said. "Also, poor compliance with diabetes medications often hinders the effectiveness of these drugs. It may be easier to get someone to take an herb with food or in a beverage, as opposed to a pill."

Although this study was performed on healthy adults, the researchers also want to study the effects of the Salacia oblonga herb in diabetic patients.

Hertzler also commented that, "A lot of studies show that lowering blood sugar levels reduces the risk for all kinds of diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease and nerve and eye damage. We want to see if this herb has this kind of effect."

The herb caused an intestinal gas side effect. Researchers measured hydrogen and methane levels in the breath of study participants for a two-day period following each test. Additionally, participants rated the frequency and intensity of any nausea, cramps, or gas they experienced.

The studies will continue, but the herb is difficult to find in the U.S. Some online suppliers do exist.

This study was conducted by Ohio State University (OSU), and supported by the Ross Products Division of Abbott Laboratories in Columbus. It was reported in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, and on the OSU website at http://researchnews.osu.edu/archive/saloblo.htm where the study researchers can be contacted and the full news release can be found.

A seemingly-obscure herb appears to have the same medicinal properties as some of today's most-researched diabetes medicines. Just imagine what other home remedy treasures are waiting to be uncovered.

About the Author: Doug Smith is a Chemical Engineer and the webmaster of http://www.SuperHomeRemedies.com You get free & natural home remedies for fungus, head lice, skin tags, acid reflux, cold sores, yeast infections, warts & more. Stay up to date with our Home Remedy News Blog at http://www.superhomeremedies.com/blog/

Source: www.isnare.com

Back Pain & Muscle Pain - Effective & Natural Pain Treatment Alternatives

2009-02-25T05:27:00.000-08:00

Back Pain & Muscle Pain - Effective & Natural Pain Treatment Alternatives

Danna Schneider

Pain and Stress. They seem almost to go hand in hand - not only in their negative connotation, but also in their biological causes and triggers. Back pain and muscle pain is typically caused by inflammation in the proximity where the pain originated, which in turn creates internal pressure, activating pain receptors in the nerve endings and sending the signal (registered as varying levels of discomfort) to the brain.

Some people are born with a naturally higher tolerance to pain - what's been dubbed the "pain threshold". Then there are the rest of us, who have normal or low pain thresholds and if chronic back pain, muscle pain, or nerve related pain or illness were to be introduced into our lives, we would be forced to be a prisoner to "the bottle". The "bottle" being one of the many prescription painkillers or narcotics prescribed to so many suffering daily, chronic muscle pain and nerve related pain.

So there must be a better way to control the pain, and manage it successfully without constant reliance on and possible addiction to prescription pain medication? And there is. Along with an excellent new naturopathic, herbal pain remedy recently introduced to consumers, there are several things you can do to manage pain effectively, and in turn even reduce stress and improve your overall mental and physical health - all of which are key factors in successful pain management.

On of the best ways to manage stress and in turn reduce pain, is to employ some sort of low impact, muscle soothing exercise, like basic yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics. These types of exercises not only stretch the muscles and keep them limber and lithe, but they effectively "massage" and calm muscles, have very little impact on joints, strength the supportive muscles of the back, and can even help reduce inflammation in the body. The mind-body connection is very strong, there is no doubt - just start an exercise routine like this and I guarantee your mood, pain and anxiety virtually melt away.

Exercise also releases and creates endorphins, which are a natural "antidote" to pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue and depression. The release of endorphins can actually reverse the negative effects these afflictions can have on your body. If you're a habitual exerciser, think of how you lethargic you feel after a few days of inactivity, and you'll understand this concept! Inactivity is one of the biggest underlying causes and perpetuators of worsening pain, lethargy, depression and anxiety.

Meditation is also a great method to reduce pain, anxiety and the host of other undesirable problems so prevalent in America today. Like yoga, and other relaxation techniques, meditation allows you to focus only on you, your breathing, and your body. This faciliatates the "harmonizing" of the body and the mind, the ultimate feeling of well-being, vitality, and tranquility, all of which will help you manage pain and stress. This will keep your mind sharp, focused, and better able to deal with the daily stress life can sometimes bring.

Combine these few simple lifestyle habits with the use of an herbal pain remedy where needed, or even just employ these habits alone, and I guarantee, pain will not only be easier to cope with when it rears it's ugly head, but also will be reduced greatly in it's severity and frequency. It quite simply is a necessity to living pain free.

About the Author: Danna Schneider is the webmaster and founder of Herbal-Therapeutics.com, a nutraceutical product site focusing mostly on natural cosmetic enhancement and well being products. Information on the new herbal pain remedy mentioned in the article can be found at http://www.herbal-therapeutics.com/natural-pain-remedy.html

Source: www.isnare.com

Natural Hair Care

2009-02-24T06:45:00.000-08:00

Natural Hair Care

Brad Jones

Bromelain Enzyme and the natural hair care Bromelain is one of
several compounds known as proteolytic enzymes, all of which aid
in the digestion of protein. Bromelain supplements are now
included in some of the natural hair care products. The plant
enzyme bromelain has yet to get the hair care product
recommendations. But there is more to bromelain than hair care.

The natural plant enzyme bromelain obtained from the pineapple
is known to provide a number of health benefits as discussed
below.

Bromelain Research By 1891, researchers identified the
proteolytic enzyme bromelain, which they found in the fleshy
part of the fruit. This enzyme was discovered to break down
protein, and as such, is still used to day as a natural meat
tenderizer and digestive aid. By 1957, bromelain was widely
recognized and research also began into such areas as muscle and
tissue inflammation, burn recovery, infection, and even sinus
problems.

The most recognized use for bromelain is as a digestive aid.
This enzyme is commonly used in cases in which an individual's
own digestive enzymes are deficient, frequently resulting from
pancreatic disorders. In such cases, bromelain supplements can
relieve gastrointestinal symptoms including bloating, gas, pain
and cramps from indigestion and diarrhea. Studies show that
proteolytic enzymes like bromelain may also indirectly relive
food allergies thought to occur from a condition called leaky
gut, in which whole protein molecules from foods leak into the
blood causing an allergic or immune response. Bromelain's
digestive properties are particularly enhanced when used along
side other enzymes such as amylase that digests starch and
lipase, necessary for fat digestion. Some laboratory studies
suggest that bromelain may also be useful for reducing bad
intestinal bacteria.

Bromelain is so effective at digesting protein that workers who
frequently cut the fruit often lose their fingerprints to the
active properties of the enzyme. As well as this fruit's amazing
digestive qualities, it is also an excellent source of vitamins
A and vitamin C, a benefit the Spaniards took advantage of on
their many extended trips out to sea.

The fibrous nature of pineapple however, is also known to
relieve constipation, as well ancient cultures frequently used
pineapples to cure jaundice and kill intestinal parasites. Ripe
pineapple juice is well known as a remedy to induce menstruation
and relieve painful periods. Bromelain's photolytic properties
also make this enzyme a natural blood thinner. The digestive
substance in the enzyme breaks down the blood clotting protein
called fibrin, which inhibits circulation and prevents tissues
from effectively draining.

European studies have consistently shown that bromelain is also
an excellent treatment for those recovering from sports injuries
and in tissue repair necessary after surgery.

Evidence suggests that some supplemental enzymes in particular
can be absorbed directly into the circulatory system in their
active form where they then exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain
relieving actions.

Bromelain has proven especially effective when applied directly
to the skin to remove dead tissue resulting from severe burns
that have reached all skin layers. These third-degree burns as
they are known, are extremely susceptible to infection and
swelling. The digestive properties of the bromelain cleanse the
areas and remove the excess dead tissue and as well, its
anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce the pain caused
by swelling. Countries such as Japan and Taiwan and in the state
of Hawaii where pineapples are abundant, widely recognize
bromelain as a remedy to cleanse wounds. Another interesting use
for bromelain may be as a cough suppressant and nasal
decongestant

Commercial Bromelain: Dosage Commercial bromelain products for
treating number of human and animal disorders are now available
in the market.Health professionals suggest that while choosing a
commercial a bromelain product, choose the enzyme supplement
that uses a variety of other enzymes. It is best to blend
enzymes with activity units at various pH levels to assure
maximum effectiveness.

According to experts, in most cases, bromelain should only be
taken for between 8 and10 days. There are two recognized drug
reactions with bromelain. This enzyme is said to enhance
antibiotics. One study shows that amoxicillin blood levels are
increased when combined with bromelain. Additional studies show
that the antibiotic tetracycline is better absorbed when used in
conjunction with bromelain, however researchers say that further
investigation is still necessary since studies in this area are
conflicting.

If you are taking the herbs gingko, ginger, vitamin C or garlic
or medications such as aspirin or warfarin, a common blood
thinner, bromelain could potentially increase the risk of
bleeding. It is therefore best to avoid this enzyme. In any
case, if you are taking any type of prescription medication, it
is always best to speak with a health professional prior to
adding any herbs or supplements since interactions are often
common.

There are many nutritional herbal
supplements which are good for hair care. Find out natural
hair care
products and secrets and some fast hair growth tips to take
care of your hair the natural way.

About the author:

The author is involved with the hair growth research, he is also
writing on subjects like the nutrition, and nutritional diet vitamin
supplements, and natural hair
care products and supplements to educate people so that they
don't fall an easy prey to the hordes of synthetic nutrient gr

Your guide to hair loss prevention

2009-02-24T05:22:00.000-08:00

Your guide to hair loss prevention

Amy-Jo Strutt

If you are going bald or notice that your hair is starting to
thin, there are a number of excellent hair loss prevention
measures you can take to stop the thinning and hair loss. Hair
loss is caused by a number of things and some of them you have
complete control over. Hair loss can be a result of stress. Is
this the reason your hair is falling out? If so, you need to
seek help immediately. This type of hair loss is often not
permanent if you catch it in time. Another reason for thinning
hair is a lack of important vitamins and minerals from the foods
you are eating. You can restore your hair by changing your diet
and getting enough fruits and leafy green vegetables daily. With
either of these cases, you need to speak to your doctor
immediately.

If your hair loss is due to genetics, which is most often the
case, your hair loss is likely permanent. But that doesn't mean
you don't have any options. You have a number of them to
consider. Hair transplants are getting more popular because of
the advancements made with the technology. In the past, hair
plugs were used and they looked unnatural and didn't do a great
job filling in the hair. Today, hair transplant surgery is
extremely good at creating a natural head of hair that is full.
If you aren't up for surgery, you can choose non surgical
procedures such as hair weaves. This is where natural or
synthetic hair is woven in with your own creating the appearance
of a full head of hair.

Rogaine is another hair loss prevention alternative to consider.
It is a topical cream that is applied directly to your scalp.
Within 6 months, you will see new hair growth. The downside is
once you stop applying Rogaine, you will likely loss the new
hair. There are other hair loss drugs on the market, each with
its own side effects. Manufacturers are making hair shampoos
specifically for thinning hair. There are gentler on your hair
and help create a fuller looking head of hair when it is dry. Be
sure to check these out at your local pharmacy. For best
results, speak to your doctor so that you understand all the
options available to you based on your type of hair loss.

About the author:

Amy-Jo Strutt is an expert author who regularly contributes to
http://iwave157.broadwavestudios.com/hair-loss-prevention.html.
For complete information on hair loss solutions, hair loss
prevention, male pattern baldness and hair transplants, visit
http://www.hair-loss-treatment-remedy.com/119-hair-loss-minoxidil
.html

An Acne Home Remedy Does Exist, Will It Work For You?

2009-02-23T04:26:00.000-08:00

An Acne Home Remedy Does Exist, Will It Work For You?

Peter Crump

Have you tried an acne home remedy? There are an amazing amount of products that are probably sitting in your kitchen right now, just waiting for you to put them on your face! You might be surprised at how helpful these acne home remedies can be. An acne home remedy may be more effective than you thought.

In this day and age, many of us are used to buying our cosmetics in pretty bottle form, with the name of some well-known manufacturer on the side. And while there is no doubt that skincare specialists are working hard to bring us the most up-to-date combinations of chemical ingredients to help our skin look good, many of the basic ingredients they use can be found in our own kitchens, just waiting for us to use them as acne home remedies!

Homemade acne remedies can be as easy to put together as slicing a lemon. The astringent properties of this fruit make it a wonderful acne home remedy. Simply rub a slice of lemon over your skin before you go to bed at night, and see how clear it looks in the morning. Tomatoes are also a great acne home remedy, and can be used in the same way.

Other effective homemade acne remedies include garlic, which can be applied directly to spots and pimples. An application of mint juice is also helpful in treating skin conditions, including acne, insect bites, and even cuts and scrapes.

Raw papaya can also help reduce the swelling and soreness of those angry, sore pimples, as can a paste made from the peel of oranges. There really are a multitude of products available right from your kitchen that can be used as an acne home remedy.

While many of these products are the basis for the expensive cleansers that you will find at the drugstore, using them in a natural form can take a little more time. But remember that these natural acne home remedies can also be kinder to your skin than their manufactured counterparts, which can ultimately have a more healthful effect on the condition of your skin.

Your kitchen contains many products that could be your acne home remedy. If you are fed up trying those sometimes harsh, highly processed skincare products, then a homemade acne remedy might be the refreshing change that makes a real difference to your skin.

An acne home remedy may work better than you thought.

About the Author

Find out more about Acne Skin Care Products as well as Acne Scars and Adult Acne, Acne Skin Care Products, the Best Acne Treatments and more at Peter's website, Acne All Gone.

Amla Herb Benefits (Indian Gooseberry - Vitamin C)

2009-02-23T04:21:00.000-08:00

Amla Herb Benefits (Indian Gooseberry - Vitamin C)

Ayurvedic Cure.com

Amla also know as amalaki, dhatriphala and in Sanskrit and Emblica officinalis scientifically, is the most widely used herb in the ayurvedic system of medicine. it maintains balance amongst three Doshas of wind, bile and phelgm (Vayu, Pitta and Cough) and effectively controls digestive problems, strengthens heart, builds up and sustains defence mechanism, improves eye sight, imparts a anatural glow to hair and body and a store house of Vitamin C.

The English name of amla: Indian gooseberry, denotes that it is indigenous to India. Though all parts of the tree have medicinal value, it is the fruit which constitutes the main drug. Charaka has specifically mentioned it as a great rasayana that helps protect people from disease and keeps away the manifestations of premature ageing.

Amla fruit is acrid, cooling, refrigerant, diuretic, laxative, alexeteric, antipyretic, aphrodisiac alterant, tonic and trichogeneous. It is the richest natural source of Vitamin C. 100 gm. of Amla contains about 700 mg. of vitamin C, which is thirty times the amount found in oranges.In adition to Vitamin C, it also contains calcium, iron, protein, garlic and tannic acids, sugar, phosphorus, carbohydrates etc. The juice of fresh amla fruit is given as tonic, diuretic and anti-bilious remedy. It is also helpful in burning sensation, over thirst, dyspepsia and other complaints of digestive system.

The powder of the dried amla fruit is an effective remedy of hyperacidity, ulcers and blood impurities. It is also used both internally and externally as a decoction and paste. Some of the common uses of amla fruit are as under:

Amla strengthens the body, expel toxins from the body and improves defense mechanism of the body.

It is an essential vitamin to improve eye sight

Weakness of body, heart and mind shall be dispelled by taking frsh amla juice in betwen meals.

Massaging the head with amla oil, induces sound sleep and is good for hair. prevents premature graying of hair.

Wash eyes daily, in the morning with amla water, soaked in water and drink the water to improve the eyesight and remove constipation.

Insert 2-4 amla juice drops into each nostril to cure bleeding for nose.

Regulates Blood Sugar

Very Powerful anti-inflammatory herb.

A wonderful antioxidant and a natural Source of Vitamin C. Amla helps scavenge free radicals.

Amla is powerful food for the brain.

Studies show that Amla helps lower cholesterol

Amla also helps maintain the functioning of the liver

Increases Hemoglobin, Red blood cell count

Useful for Cough, Bronchitis, Asthma

Amla cleanses the mouth, strengthens the teeth

Its decoction is used in hyperacidity and with honey as an anthelmintic. The presence of Amla resulted in an enhanced cell survival, decreased free radical production and higher antioxidant levels similar to that of control cells. (Phytother Res. 2003 Apr;17(4):430-3.)

There are various classic ayurvedic preparations, such as chyawanprash in which amla is used as a chief ingredient. It help improve intelligence and memory power. Triphala and Brahmrasayana are other classic medicine in which amla is being used since time immemorial.

About the Author: http://AyurvedicCure.com, http://www.ayurvediccure.com - Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Medicines and Herbal Remedies Guide. Health Guide featuring Home Remedies, Herbal Supplements and information on herbs and their benefits. Online Health Store with Free Shipping Worldwide! Stay tuned to our Ayurvedic Health Blog at http://www.ayurvediccure.com/blog

Source: www.isnare.com

Amla and Indian Gooseberry

2009-02-21T05:26:00.000-08:00

Amla and Indian Gooseberry

AyurvedicCure.com

Amla also know as amalaki, dhatriphala and in Sanskrit and

Emblica officinalis scientifically, is the most widely used herb
in the ayurvedic system of medicine. it maintains balance
amongst three Doshas of wind, bile and phelgm (Vayu, Pitta and
Cough) and effectively controls digestive problems, strengthens
heart, builds up and sustains defence mechanism, improves eye
sight, imparts a anatural glow to hair and body and a store
house of Vitamin C.

The English name of amla: Indian gooseberry, denotes that it is
indigenous to India. Though all parts of the tree have medicinal
value, it is the fruit which constitutes the main drug. Charaka
has specifically mentioned it as a great rasayana that helps
protect people from disease and keeps away the manifestations of
premature ageing.

Amla fruit is acrid, cooling, refrigerant, diuretic, laxative,
alexeteric, antipyretic, aphrodisiac alterant, tonic and
trichogeneous. It is the richest natural source of Vitamin C.
100 gm. of Amla contains about 700 mg. of vitamin C, which is
thirty times the amount found in oranges.In adition to Vitamin
C, it also contains calcium, iron, protein, garlic and tannic
acids, sugar, phosphorus, carbohydrates etc. The juice of fresh
amla fruit is given as tonic, diuretic and anti-bilious remedy.
It is also helpful in burning sensation, over thirst, dyspepsia
and other complaints of digestive system.

The powder of the dried amla fruit is an effective remedy of
hyperacidity, ulcers and blood impurities. It is also used both
internally and externally as a decoction and paste. Some of the
common uses of amla fruit are as under:

Amla strengthens the body, expel toxins from the body and
improves defense mechanism of the body.

It is an essential vitamin to improve eye sight

Weakness of body, heart and mind shall be dispelled by taking
frsh amla juice in betwen meals.

Massaging the head with amla oil, induces sound sleep and is
good for hair. prevents premature graying of hair.

Wash eyes daily, in the morning with amla water, soaked in water
and drink the water to improve the eyesight and remove
constipation.

Insert 2-4 amla juice drops into each nostril to cure bleeding
for nose.

Regulates Blood Sugar

Very Powerful anti-inflammatory herb.

A wonderful antioxidant and a natural Source of Vitamin C. Amla
helps scavenge free radicals.

Amla is powerful food for the brain.

Studies show that Amla helps lower cholesterol

Amla also helps maintain the functioning of the liver

Increases Hemoglobin, Red blood cell count

Useful for Cough, Bronchitis, Asthma

Amla cleanses the mouth, strengthens the teeth

Its decoction is used in hyperacidity and with honey as an
anthelmintic.

The presence of Amla resulted in an enhanced cell survival,
decreased free radical production and higher antioxidant levels
similar to that of control cells. (Phytother Res. 2003
Apr;17(4):430-3.)

There are various classic ayurvedic preparations, such as
chyawanprash in which amla is used as a chief ingredient. It
help improve intelligence and memory power. Triphala and
Brahmrasayana are other classic medicine in which amla is being
used since time immemorial.

Read more about Amla and its Benefits/ at
http://www.ayurvediccure.com/amla.htm

About the author:

Read more about Amla and its Benefits/ at
http://www.ayurvediccure.com/amla.htm

http://www.ayurvediccure.com Portal on Ayurveda and Ayurvedic
medicines featuring Home Remedies, Benefits of Herbs, Uses of
Various Herbs and Application, Alternative Remedies and Online
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Alternative Treatment for Asthma

2009-02-21T05:22:00.000-08:00

Alternative Treatment for Asthma

Balaji B

Asthma is a respiratory disorder characterized by abnormal lung condition in which accumulation of mucus in the lungs is found. Natural asthma remedies are the most preferred way of treating asthma since the conventional methods of treatment for asthma may have a lot of side effects.

Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness are some of the symptoms caused by the narrowing or obstruction of the airways. Airway inflammation, a condition which makes the airways in the lungs turn red, swollen and narrow is one of the causes of narrowing or obstruction of the airways.

Herbal asthma aid is a natural product that is formulated with the medicinal herbs which is one of the most effective natural asthma remedies. Garlic, ginger and mustard are said to prevent the accumulation of mucus in the lungs and hence these are taken as natural asthma remedies. Herbs such as licorice have the tendency to expel the mucus from the lungs. This is used to clear the lung of mucus accumulation.

The ingredients of these products contain the herbs like Elecampane, Ginger, Garlic, Mustard and Licorice. The herbs mentioned above have medicinal properties that appose asthma symptoms. Licorice is an herb that clears the mucus accumulation from the lungs. If the patient is having high blood pressure he should not use licorice separately.

Before choosing any herbal remedy for asthma the patient has to consult a doctor to perform several diagnostic tests to confirm that he is having asthma. After the confirmation the patient can choose an herbal remedy for asthma in consultation with the doctor. The choice of the remedy depends on the condition of the patient.

Most of the people prefer an herbal remedy for asthma as it is known fact that they are more effective on a person without any side effects. It is the choice of a patient to choose an herbal remedy for asthma in consultation with a medical practitioner. They should consult a doctor before taking up any herbal remedy for asthma.
Visit : http://www.natural-treatment-guide.com/asthma/herbal-remedies-for-asthma.html or http://www.natural-treatment-guide.com/asthma/herbal-remedy-for-asthma.html for more information about Asthma prevention.

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Alternative Medicine - The Healthy Choice

2009-02-21T05:17:00.000-08:00

Alternative Medicine - The Healthy Choice

Jem Bacchus

Alternative and Conventional Medicines are the two main systems of healing in use today and the utmost caution should be taken to choose wisely.

Being healthy is of crucial importance in the life of everyone. I do not believe that there is anyone who relishes the anguish of disease. Without health you cannot function properly in any area of your life.

Whether enjoying the normal faculties of life or mentally unbalanced, every person would rather be perfectly healthy than endure the tortures of pain, sickness and disease, but there comes a time when we must seek medical help.

It is unfortunate that instead of healing the sick, very often some medicines interfere with the natural process of healing, resulting in additional suffering and further deterioration of health.

In ancient times, illness was cured by the use of herbs and other natural therapies which always proved very effective. Today, those same therapies as well as modern discoveries based on those of ancient times are referred to as alternative medicine and the public has been brainwashed into believing that the treatments are worthless; yet, many diseases that have been deemed 'incurable' are being healed by alternative means but, unfortunately, these cures have never been heard of by countless sufferers.

What is called conventional medicine (also referred to as mainstream, standard, allopathic or orthodox medicine), is man-made synthetic drugs that were not in existence in ancient times. Interestingly, so many diseases were not around in those days as there are today.

The main difference between the two systems is that alternative medicine is concerned about the prevention of disease and pays attention to and deals with the cause by treating the body as a whole. It focuses on preventing disease before it starts. It views the presence of disease as an imbalance of the emotional, mental and physical state of a person and endeavors to support and strengthen the immune system by natural means.

Alternative medicine contends that the body is naturally able to heal itself and remain stable - known in medicine as homeostasis.

On the other hand, conventional medicine is not concerned with preventing disease but rather with using synthetic drugs to cure an already established ailment. It is more interested in treating just the symptoms of disease by scientific techniques and technology instead of treating the whole person.

Many conventional drugs are said to have the potential to damage the liver and kidneys, and cause mental depression, heart falure, cancer and other adverse side effects. Now, if that is so, why are they still being manufactured and sold to the public? Where is the concern for public health and safety?

Note that since the introduction of conventional medicine, instead of there being greater relief from illness, there has been an exponential surge of diseases wreaking havoc in the lives of unsuspecting mortals. Why is this so?

If conventional medicine were the answer to health problems, why are there so many more diseases prevalent today? The interesting thing is that a name is readily given to each new disease and some form of synthetic remedy is quickly manufactured for sale!

Conventional medicine has been so well advertised that the public is convinced that it is the only way they can get relief from devastating illnesses. They jump at the announcement of any new supposedly super healing conventional medicine and with no hesitation embark upon treating themselves. This is especially so in the case of weight loss.

The sad thing is that no real cure is realized from these, whereas there are natural remedies that have been proven to cure. I can personally attest to certain cures that I have experienced through the use of natural remedies.

It is well known that some drug manufacturers have had to withdraw their dangerous medication because of the likelihood of patients suffering heart attack and stroke. Most synthetic drugs, if not all, have dangerous side effects of which the public is unaware. Some are very detrimental to unborn babies. So why are these drugs still being sold and at such exorbitant prices?

The general public is not sufficiently made aware of the dangers of conventional drugs. For obvious reasons, no attempt to do so is made by those who should educate the unwary and encourage the use of alternative medicine.

Obviously, if disease is prevented by natural means before resulting in the breakdown of the immune system which is the body's mechanism of defence against illness, serious diseases such as cancer and other so-called incurable diseases would be prevented, and so there would be little need for the administration of expensive conventional medicine since that would be necessary only in case of surgery and other traumatic conditions.

Another point that I think worthy of note is about products so readily put on the skin. Most of them are formulated with harmful synthetic substances that get into the blood stream and invariably cause dangerous side effects. As it is said, what you would not eat, you should not put on your skin.

Remember that the skin absorbs and cannot differentiate between synthetic chemicals and natural substances. You may not see the adverse effects now, but years later your skin would speak for itself. You do not want to look older than your age, do you? Then do not poison yourself with the topical application of toxic skin products.

No one should be so busy so as not be able to find time to learn about the natural substances that they could take to protect their own bodies and prevent diseases. Many thousands of persons might have been alive today if only they had known, and had been encouraged to use natural remedies.

I enjoy reading to find out about ancient formulas and treatments that have resurfaced today, as well as new discoveries of natural healing methods and remedies that are gaining momentum amongst health conscious persons.

Ï have collected lots of information on herbal remedies. Among them are such topics as heart health the natural way, aromatherapy essential oils, homeopathy, beautiful skin care, skin diseases, healing for conditions such as acne, hemorrhoids, eczema, etc., weightloss, and many other natural health remedies and detailed information on how to make your own from nature's herbs, vitamins and nutrients.

Many persons seem to be convinced that natural remedies made by God do not have the efficacy of the synthetic remedies made by man!

God who made this world has said "the leaves of the trees for healing of the nations." God is truth and cannot lie. Isn't it time that we took Him at his word?

Why should we put our trust in Satan and his lies and put no confidence in God and His truth?

Since there seems to be no confidence in what God has made, Why don't we make our own water, sunshine, trees, and fresh air? Why do we walk upon God's earth? We should make our own basic items to concoct synthetic remedies instead of corrupting the things that God has made.

You can seek relief from disease either through natural alternative medicine by which you can maintain good health and save; or, through conventional medicine with its ill effects of costly synthetic prescription drugs at the risk of further deterioration of your health. It is up to you to prevent poisoning yourself, avoid unnecessary pain and suffering, and be healthy.

Keep this in mind:

If you really want to fight disease,

Natural Medicine is the Healthy Choice.

But if you'd rather be deceased,

Synthetic Medicine might be the Deadly Choice!!

This article is written for information only and is not intended to suggest treatment of any disease. Information contained herein is based on facts I have gathered and just want to share with interested persons. Anyone suffering from a disease or has any other medical issue is advised to consult a recognized practitioner.

About the author:

Jem Bacchus is a certified Natural Health Consultant, and author of 1-personal-improvement website. Read more on Alternative Medicine and get your free ezine Aspects of Personal Improvement.

Alternative Medicine & Herbal Preparations

2009-02-21T05:12:00.000-08:00

Alternative Medicine & Herbal Preparations

Danna Schneider

Why Herbal Preparations are Becoming the Preferred
Alternative

While still regarded with some degree of skepticism in the
medical community, alternative medicine and herbal remedies are
gaining attention and recognition in the world of alternative
health care and preventative medicine. Alarmed by several high
profile medications being taken off shelves for health hazards,
more and more people are turning to alternatives medicines to
help treat physical symptoms and heal their bodies naturally.

Alternative medicine is gaining more attention every day. The
idea that one can heal their body, prevent physical symptoms and
even treat them - naturally - is very appealing. It is
especially appealing in the wake of some alarming findings on
popular prescription medications which resulted in them being
pulled from shelves due to health hazards.

While one should still approach alternative medicine with
caution and thorough research, natural cures, remedies and
herbal preparations still should be considered when researching
the best options for treating various physical ailments that
impact your quality of life.

Still regarded with some skepticism in the medical community,
there are undeniably some truly remarkable and tangible benefits
to be garnered from herbal preparations, as testified by many
users of the array of natural health products available today.
Herbal remedies and alternative medicines can help treat and
alleviate symptoms ranging from pain and menopause to acne and
depression.

Users of these herbal preparations and remedies most commonly
are those who are health conscious, have had adverse reactions
to traditional medications, or just have a holistic mindset and
approach to their mental and physical health, longevity and
proactivity in prevention.

With it's increasing popularity and recognition, you are likely
to see a rising number of new product offerings and also an
increase in companies willing to put more money into research
and development of new natural health products as their demand
increases.

This is going to give us, as consumers, a great advantage, since
it will give traditional medications a run for their money in
effectiveness and safety.

About the author:

Visit
Herbal-Therapeutics.com for information on the effective
natural acne remedy talked about in this article. Danna
Schneider is the founder of Herbal-Therapeutics.com .

Alternatiave Medicine - The Healthy Choice

2009-02-16T04:10:00.000-08:00

Alternatiave Medicine - The Healthy Choice

Jem Bacchus

Alternative and Conventional Medicines are the two main systems
of healing in use today and the utmost caution should be taken
to choose wisely.

Being healthy is of crucial importance in the life of everyone.
I do not believe that there is anyone who relishes the anguish
of disease. Without health you cannot function properly in any
area of your life.

Whether enjoying the normal faculties of life or mentally
unbalanced, every person would rather be perfectly healthy than
endure the tortures of pain, sickness and disease, but there
comes a time when we must seek medical help.

It is unfortunate that instead of healing the sick, very often
some medicines interfere with the natural process of healing,
resulting in additional suffering and further deterioration of
health.

In ancient times, illness was cured by the use of herbs and
other natural therapies which always proved very effective.
Today, those same therapies as well as modern discoveries based
on those of ancient times are referred to as alternative
medicine and the public has been brainwashed into believing that
the treatments are worthless; yet, many diseases that have been
deemed 'incurable' are being healed by alternative means but,
unfortunately, these cures have never been heard of by countless
sufferers.

What is called conventional medicine (also referred to as
mainstream, standard, allopathic or orthodox medicine), is
man-made synthetic drugs that were not in existence in ancient
times. Interestingly, so many diseases were not around in those
days as there are today.

The main difference between the two systems is that alternative
medicine is concerned about the prevention of disease and pays
attention to and deals with the cause by treating the body as a
whole. It focuses on preventing disease before it starts. It
views the presence of disease as an imbalance of the emotional,
mental and physical state of a person and endeavors to support
and strengthen the immune system by natural means.

Alternative medicine contends that the body is naturally able to
heal itself and remain stable - known in medicine as
homeostasis.

On the other hand, conventional medicine is not concerned with
preventing disease but rather with using synthetic drugs to cure
an already established ailment. It is more interested in
treating just the symptoms of disease by scientific techniques
and technology instead of treating the whole person.

Many conventional drugs are said to have the potential to damage
the liver and kidneys, and cause mental depression, heart
falure, cancer and other adverse side effects. Now, if that is
so, why are they still being manufactured and sold to the
public? Where is the concern for public health and safety?

Note that since the introduction of conventional medicine,
instead of there being greater relief from illness, there has
been an exponential surge of diseases wreaking havoc in the
lives of unsuspecting mortals. Why is this so?

If conventional medicine were the answer to health problems, why
are there so many more diseases prevalent today? The interesting
thing is that a name is readily given to each new disease and
some form of synthetic remedy is quickly manufactured for sale!

Conventional medicine has been so well advertised that the
public is convinced that it is the only way they can get relief
from devastating illnesses. They jump at the announcement of any
new supposedly super healing conventional medicine and with no
hesitation embark upon treating themselves. This is especially
so in the case of weight loss.

The sad thing is that no real cure is realized from these,
whereas there are natural remedies that have been proven to
cure. I can personally attest to certain cures that I have
experienced through the use of natural remedies.

It is well known that some drug manufacturers have had to
withdraw their dangerous medication because of the likelihood of
patients suffering heart attack and stroke. Most synthetic
drugs, if not all, have dangerous side effects of which the
public is unaware. Some are very detrimental to unborn babies.
So why are these drugs still being sold and at such exorbitant
prices?

The general public is not sufficiently made aware of the dangers
of conventional drugs. For obvious reasons, no attempt to do so
is made by those who should educate the unwary and encourage the
use of alternative medicine.

Obviously, if disease is prevented by natural means before
resulting in the breakdown of the immune system which is the
body's mechanism of defence against illness, serious diseases
such as cancer and other so-called incurable diseases would be
prevented, and so there would be little need for the
administration of expensive conventional medicine since that
would be necessary only in case of surgery and other traumatic
conditions.

Another point that I think worthy of note is about products so
readily put on the skin. Most of them are formulated with
harmful synthetic substances that get into the blood stream and
invariably cause dangerous side effects. As it is said, what you
would not eat, you should not put on your skin.

Remember that the skin absorbs and cannot differentiate between
synthetic chemicals and natural substances. You may not see the
adverse effects now, but years later your skin would speak for
itself. You do not want to look older than your age, do you?
Then do not poison yourself with the topical application of
toxic skin products.

No one should be so busy so as not be able to find time to learn
about the natural substances that they could take to protect
their own bodies and prevent diseases. Many thousands of persons
might have been alive today if only they had known, and had been
encouraged to use natural remedies.

I enjoy reading to find out about ancient formulas and
treatments that have resurfaced today, as well as new
discoveries of natural healing methods and remedies that are
gaining momentum amongst health conscious persons.

Ï have collected lots of information on herbal remedies. Among
them are such topics as heart health the natural way,
aromatherapy essential oils, homeopathy, beautiful skin care,
skin diseases, healing for conditions such as acne, hemorrhoids,
eczema, etc., weightloss, and many other natural health remedies
and detailed information on how to make your own from nature's
herbs, vitamins and nutrients.

Many persons seem to be convinced that natural remedies made by
God do not have the efficacy of the synthetic remedies made by
man!

God who made this world has said "the leaves of the trees for
healing of the nations." God is truth and cannot lie. Isn't it
time that we took Him at his word?

Why should we put our trust in Satan and his lies and put no
confidence in God and His truth?

Since there seems to be no confidence in what God has made, Why
don't we make our own water, sunshine, trees, and fresh air? Why
do we walk upon God's earth? We should make our own basic items
to concoct synthetic remedies instead of corrupting the things
that God has made.

You can seek relief from disease either through natural
alternative medicine by which you can maintain good health and
save; or, through conventional medicine with its ill effects of
costly synthetic prescription drugs at the risk of further
deterioration of your health. It is up to you to prevent
poisoning yourself, avoid unnecessary pain and suffering, and be
healthy.

Keep this in mind:

If you really want to fight disease, Natural Medicine is the
Healthy Choice. But if you'd rather be deceased, Synthetic
Medicine might be the Deadly Choice!!

This article is written for information only and is not
intended to suggest treatment of any disease. Information
contained herein is based on facts I have gathered and just want
to share with interested persons. Anyone suffering from a
disease or has any other medical issue is advised to consult a
recognized practitioner.

About the author:

Jem Bacchus is a certified Natural Health Consultant, and author
or 1-personal-improvement website. Read more on Alternat
ive Medicineand get your free ezine Aspects of Personal
Improvement.

Adult Acne Treatments - The Natural Way

2009-02-16T04:09:00.000-08:00

Adult Acne Treatments - The Natural Way

Danna Schneider

Adult Acne - Why Must We Suffer Aging Skin AND Acne??

As a young woman who suffered through agonizing periods of
merciless acne breakouts in the already angst-filled years of my
young adulthood, I thought that once I became an "adult", I
would no longer have to suffer the unbearable cycles of
noticeable, painful cystic acne.

I remember feeling like every zit on my face was the focal point
in every conversation I had with people, and I swore that
everyone had clearer skin than I did. Even a day with clear skin
was like a rare treat to me, to be savored cautiously, as I knew
it would never last, and a breakout was just waiting for it's
next opportunity to strike.

Little did I know, that when I hit adulthood, my battles with
acne were far from over. Even as I had my twenty-fifth birthday,
I still had to battle that neverending cycle of clear skin,
followed by periods of days or even weeks where my skin would
inexplicably erupt into a maze of strategically placed
blemishes, mostly on the chin area, forehead, and around the
nose.

I still found myself searching for the latest acne products and
treatments at drugstores, all of which didn't work at all. They
merely dried my skin and made it look worse by adding redness
and chafing to my growing list of skin problems.

There are many other adults that are finding they still have to
fight the battle with acne - now coined "adult acne". Why is it,
that even beyond our adolescent years of hormonal turmoil, we
are finding that we must battle a new enemy, the formidable
adult acne that we thought we might be fortunate enough to
escape since we paid our dues in our teenage years. It is
estimated that more than fifty percent of adult women between
the ages of twenty-five and fifty-eight have some type of adult
acne, and those numbers are only getting larger.

So what do the experts have to say about the cause of adult
acne? Hormonal fluctuations are the most common cause of adult
acne, followed by stress, which in itself actually triggers
hormonal imbalances, especially in women. So basically, any way
you cut it, adult acne is primarily caused by hormonal shifts
and fluctuations, many times caused by stress, but also caused
by diet, lifestyle changes, birth control pills, medications,
and so many other circumstances.

Some good lifestyle rules to stick to for clear skin are pretty
much common sense, but nonetheless are worth repeating. Eating a
balanced diet, with adequate protein, little or no refined sugar
products (which cause hormones to spike up and down rapidly),
and plenty of skin-nourishing fruits and vegetables is an
absolute must for clear, healthy skin. I notice that after even
one day of a refined sugar binge, I may wake up to a puffy, red
and sometimes slightly broken out face. This is proof that you
are what you eat - especially when it comes to your skin.

Second, try to diminish stress levels by taking walks, getting
cardiovascular exercise of some sort, or practicing relaxation
techniques in the form of yoga, meditation, or tai-chi. It sound
trivial, but stress levels and how you allow yourself to be
affected by daily stress, really reflects in your skin's
appearance.

Third, you really should consider giving a natural acne
treatment a try. When all else failed, and it was clear that
nothing else would work to permanently clear my skin, or at
least get the ball rolling to even my hormone levels out and
purify my skin from the inside of my body, I tried a natural
acne remedy that I am forever grateful for.

I still have clear skin today, and get compliments on how good
it looks, at age 30. After years of taking prescription acne
medications like tetracycline, Retin-A and erythromycin, I was
finally able to clear my skin permanently -and at a fraction of
the cost of constant dermatologist consultations and repeated
prescription refills.

These new, advanced acne treatments really offer you what no
prescription antibiotic can in that they are completely safe,
contain all natural botanicals that purify the skin from the
inside out, and in many cases, can clear your skin permanently
with very little follow up treatment if you take them as
prescribed and for a long enough period to have lasting effects.

You owe it to yourself to try a natural acne remedy. There are
just too many great acne products out there that will get the
job done better than anything a dermatologist can prescribe!

About the author:

Danna Schneider is the founder of Acne Product Reviews
and Comparisons. Visit Acu
zine Herbal Acne Supplement for information on and
advanced natural acne medication for adults and adolescents.

ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments?

2009-02-15T05:27:00.000-08:00

ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments?

Tess Thompson

by Tess Thompson

Although there is controversy surrounding them, stimulants are
still the most commonly prescribed type of medication for
children with ADD and ADHD. The Drug Enforcement Agency says
that stimulant drug production has increased 500 percent since
1991, and over half of the prescriptions for them are written by
pediatricians. Stimulants are often effective in treating many
of the symptoms of ADD -- but are they the best ADD treatment
for your child? Many parents are concerned about the side
effects stimulants can produce and choose to investigate other
options like behavioral therapy and herbal supplements as well.
When it comes to making a decision that affects your child's
health, having the facts is essential.

ADD stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of the
chemicals epinephrine and norepinephrine in the brain, which
helps the brain to transmit signals between nerves. This
improves a child's (or adult's) ability to pay attention for
extended periods of time. But these medications also come with a
risk of mild and serious side effects. Some of the most common
side effects include headaches, upset stomach and increased
blood pressure, all of which may diminish as the body adjusts
after the first few weeks of treatment. Other common side
effects include decreased appetite (80% of stimulant users
report this), nervousness and sleeplessness. Research has also
shown that stimulants can stunt growth during treatment, but
have not been proven to affect final height. Less common but
more serious side effects include hallucinations and feelings of
suspicion or paranoia, Tourette's Syndrome, and suicidal
thoughts.

Children on stimulants (Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta are the
best-known brands) should be watched closely and their dosages
should be evaluated regularly. These medications are most
effective when they are administered in the correct dosage for
each individual and when they are combined with additional ADD
treatments like behavioral therapy and practical and emotional
support. Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera, can also be
effective, but carry a risk of similar side effects.

In light of the risks that prescription medications carry, many
parents are interested in exploring an herbal remedy for ADD.
There is more than one herb that has been shown to be an
effective ADD or ADHD child treatment, and there are a variety
of natural remedies on the market that combine many of them.
Ginko Biloba, Green Oats, Brahmi, Gotu Kola and Panax Ginseng
are some of the best ingredients, and the positive effects of
some of them (like Ginko) can become permanent even after
discontinuing use.

While stimulant medication is often successful in treating ADD,
it can sometimes cause its own set of problems. Weigh the risks
and the benefits carefully, and make the decision that is right
for your own child. Just as each child exhibits symptoms of ADD
differently, each child will react differently to medication and
treatment. Patience and thorough research should lead you to a
healthy solution for your child.

Webmaster: You are authorized to reprint this article
providing the author bio/resource box is left completely in tact
- including all hyperlinks.

About the author:

Tess Thompson is a Master Herbalist who contributes to Native Remedies - where
you can find Remedies for health conditions including natural AD
D treatment and he
rbal remedy for ADD.

Acne Treatment Solution

2009-02-15T05:23:00.000-08:00

Acne Treatment Solution

Kevin Emswiler

A simple and natural acne treatment remedy that gets rid of acne forever. Simple methods that will change your life.

What would you say if I told you the days of costly prescription medication were over. That you could gain control over your acne within days and be virtually acne free in a month. Chris Gibson has done extensive research on the subject and came up with a natural acne treatment.

Gibson who is a 15 year acne suffer himself has been acne free for nearly 18 years. After numerous test studies he is finally ready to release his findings to the public. His formulas have been used by thousands of people around the world.

One of his customers is quoted saying, " Chris, I wish I had access to your book seven or eight years ago! I am 28 now, but when I was fifteen and sixteen I had horrible acne problems. It was so bad, that I was afraid to go to school because my self-esteem was so low! I had tried all the popular medications; Retina and Tetracycline, but that just seemed to make the problem worse. I had no choice but to live with it until it finally slowed down, as I got older. Had I had access to your information years ago, I would not have to have gone through some of the embarrassing moments that I use to face everyday. I would recommend for anybody who is suffering from Acne problems to get your book and give your system a shot! It is a natural treatment and is healthier for your body than taking prescription medications."

Gibson decided the best way he could help acne sufferers was to publish his results. He's written everything down in an ebook appropriately titled, "Acne Free in 3 Days".

Acne sufferers around the world are cheering. Their skin no longer has to interfere with their social life. They finally have a natural acne treatment remedy. Gibson's formula will not only get rid of your acne it will save you a lot of money in the process. His ebook can be downloaded right from your home computer.

About the author:

Kevin Emswiler is a freelance writer that has several articles published on and off the net. For more information on Acne Free In 3 Days, visit http://www.prweb.com/releases/Nov%20/0/prweb175616.htm

Acne Solution From a Pill

2009-02-14T05:39:00.000-08:00

Acne Solution From a Pill

Sandra Wellman

Most people believe the only way to cure their acne problem is
from the outside. Well, you definitely need to keep your skin
clean, but often, acne sufferers scrub too hard or use harsh
chemicals to try to clean deep. This can actually make matters
worse. Simply clean your face at least twice per day with a mild
cleanser, especially after sweating. I keep a bottle of
astringent in the shower b/c I don't like cleaning my face with
soap like some people (my husband). Soap seems to leave a
residual, as far as I'm concerned. And women, I know you won't
like this, but try to wear as little makeup as infrequently as
you can get away with or put up with. It just clogs your pores.
When you do wear it, make sure you clean your face before you go
to bed, even if it's late. Just do a quick job!

Home remedies for acne are much better than prescriptions,
especially the ones with side effects like Accutane®. You could
feel sick, get liver problems, get depressed and worse yet, your
child may have birth defects from using it! Be careful what you
choose to cure your acne with. Read all ingredients and warnings.

Using a natural acne remedy on the inside and out is your
best acne solution. For exterior cleaning, try to find a product
without alcohol, as it will dry your skin. Tea Tree oil is
natural, but also very strong. I wouldn't use it for mild to
moderate acne unless it had other ingredients in it to dilute
it. If you have severe acne, that may work for you. An acne
product that protects your skin and prevents acne from coming
back is even better. There's one listed on my web site, see
below.

Now, about cleaning acne from the inside out; this may seem a
bit strange to you, but a lot of acne is caused by internal
imbalances and/or impurities. Chocolate doesn't really cause
acne, unless you are allergic to it, but eating junk food
definitely won't help you. Eating too many white carbohydrates
creates a pasty like sludge substance in your intestines and
bacteria love to stick to it, gross! That's partly why you are
told to avoid white starches and sugars, but that's a subject
for a different day.

Antioxidants, like Vitamin C, E and Alpha Lipoic Acid, are very
helpful in clearing acne. Aloe Vera is an anti-viral as well as
an anti-microbial, that can help cleanse you from the inside
out. Hydrolyzed Collagen prevents moisture loss. Wouldn't it be
nice if you could get all these, plus DMAE, Co-enzyme Q10 and
Bioperine all in one capsule you only have to take once per day?
Yes, there is an acne solution from a pill! You can clear your
acne from the inside out. Go to my web site to find out how: http://www.ac
ne-and-hair-loss-solutions.com/.

About the author:

Sandra Wellman is the owner of a web site about natural acne and
hair loss solutions, including articles, tapes, cd's, ebooks and
natural products. Visit her site at: http://www.ac
ne-and-hair-loss-solutions.com/.

Acne Rosacea - How to Effectively Treat Rosacea Symptoms

2009-02-13T06:03:00.000-08:00

Acne Rosacea - How to Effectively Treat Rosacea Symptoms

Danna Schneider

Rosacea - How to Naturally Calm and Eliminate Rosacea and
Acne Rosacea

Acne Rosacea and Rosacea are fairly common skin disorders that
primarily affect fair skinned people in their 30's and over.
While it's exact cause is difficult to pinpoint, the symptoms of
Rosacea are obvious in their manifestation on the facial skin.

Typical Rosacea symptoms are a combination of any of the
following: Red looking, flushed skin - especially on the nose
and the cheeks, small, dilated blood vessels known as
telangiectases may appear in the background, inflamed red bumps
sometimes with a yellow head (acne rosacea), a shiny, oily
appearance to the skin, and roughness, or "orange peel" like
texture of the affected skin.

Acne rosacea is the more severe of the two, and definitely is
more noticeable, as it not only manifests itself in skin
redness, but also in acne-like postules that infect and swell,
making the skin bumpy and inflamed.

Rosacea is typically aggravated by alcoholic beverage
consumption, hot or spicy foods, some types of common cosmetic
ingredients, sun exposure, hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, and the
consumption of hot drinks.

People who suffer from Rosacea are typically advised to avoid
these triggers, but this of course is not always possible. While
it is not possible to actually cure Rosacea, since the
underlying cause seems to elude scientists, there are ways of
controlling it that are very effective.

The Most Commonly Prescribed Rosacea Treatments

Many who suffer from this skin disorder do seek the advice and
prescribing authority of a dermatologist to control it. The most
common dermatologist-prescribed method of controlling Rosacea is
through the utilization of a topical antibiotic.

While this can be effective in controlling the problem, it is
mostly temporary, and the problem returns immediately after the
treatment stops. This can also be a problem for those who may
not have the time or the money for the dermatologist visits and
prescription refills.

Why Go for a Natural Remedy Rather than a Medical
Treatment?

With today's nutraceutical and cosmeceutical advancements, there
are so many treatments available that either equal prescription
skin care treatments, and even outperform them. The best part
is, you don't have to take the time out for the dermatologist
appointment, and you don't have to pay the high recurring costs
of prescription refills and return appointments.

This holds true for Rosacea and Acne Rosacea treatments also.
Many people have had huge success with natural Rosacea
treatments and systems - one in particular.

The marriage of pharmaceutical technology and nature has indeed
spawned some of the greatest cosmetic correction innovations
that we now are able to take advantage of today. With the proper
skin care regimen, some lifestyle cautions and common sense
avoidances, Rosacea is indeed a treatable skin condition, and it
can be treated equally as well without prescription, man-made
medications. Natural is always better, and these new and
innovative Acne Rosacea products definitely prove just that.

About the author:

See Acne Rosacea Treatments for more information on how
to naturally treat and ultimately eliminate rosacea and acne
rosacea. Danna Schneider is the webmaster of Cosmetic Product
Reviews, a site dedicated to providing reviews and
articles on the most effective natural cosmetic correction.

Acne Laser Treatments - How They Help With Scarring and Formation of Acne

2009-02-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

Acne Laser Treatments - How They Help With Scarring and Formation of Acne

Danna Schneider

Acne Laser Treatment - How You Can Now "Do It Yourself" at
Home for a Fraction of the Price, and Get the Same Results

There are always new ways to treat acne coming out as the latest
and greatest method to treat acne and smooth the skin out to its
pre-acne days. Some of these methods are really not effective,
and cause consumers to just pour their money down the drain, so
to speak, in hopes of finally finding the answer to their acne
woes.

Others, like acne laser treatment, are a truly effective and
proven way to clear acne, help mend the skin, and help heal
scarring and existing acne lesions.

How Does Acne Laser Treatment Treat Scarring and Acne at the
Same Time

Lasers work by using various "soft pulsing light" wavelengths
and intensities to help "reshape" scar tissue, making raised
scars go down, and reducing the redness of the skin around
healed acne postules. Home acne lasers actually emit a low,
constant frequency of red light which helps to stimulate
collagen, making scarring less visible, and helping to stimulate
the healing of existing acne, and speed the whole recovery
process.

The low light acne home laser does not emit heat and does not
hurt or burn your tissues - quite the contrary, you will feel
like you've just had a refreshing facial after you use it each
time - I did. Not only that, if you have any fine lines or
wrinkles, you will notice that they soften with the use of this
laser as well.

One particular medical grade home acne laser treatment that
uses this technology had the following to report:

1. The home laser device was found to be an effective treatment
for acne in the inflammatory stage.

2. Subjects typically would see positive results within 3-6
weeks of starting treatment. The positive results depended
largely on consistency and continuity of treatment. Especially
in the first few weeks, consistency is key if you want to see
real results from a home laser

3. After 6 Weeks of Laser Treatment:

20% of the patients were completely healed.

50% of the patients showed major improvement.

20% of the patients showed minor improvement.

These are pretty compelling statistics, and I'd say very
promising for anyone looking to treat their acne and reduce acne
scarring effectively, without countless visits to the
dermatologist or a plastic surgeons office for essentially the
same treatment.

If You REALLY Want to Get Astounding Results, Take it a Step
Further and Combine Laser Therapy with a Natural Oral Remedy

You can achieve even greater and faster success when combining
an oral remedy for acne and the laser. This fights acne from
both a scarring and healing aspect on the outside, and from an
internal standpoint, eradicating impurities and hormonal
imbalances which cause the acne in the first place.

Many dermatologists take this two pronged approach, and they
will combine a microdermabrasion or laser therapy with an oral
antibiotic for maximum results for their patients. Why can't you
do the same and get identical results, or even better results
than doctor's office treatments?

The fact is, there are other options that are less expensive
over the long haul and many times even more effective than
medications or special in-office treatments can be. Why not take
advantage of this advanced technology?

About the author:

Visit <>Acne Laser Treatment for more information on the best
home acne laser treatment that covers the most surface area of
any home laser. Danna Schneider is the founder of
CosmeticsGalore.com. Visit Acu
zine Natural Acne Pill Review for info on a cutting edge
natural acne remedy.

Acne Home Remedy

2009-02-13T05:46:00.000-08:00

Acne Home Remedy

P. Mehta

You have permission to publish this article in your web sites, ezines or
electronic publication, as long as the piece is used in its entirety including the resource box, all HTML hyperlinks (clickable) and references and copyright
info.

Acne Home Remedy

Copyright 2004 P. Mehta,www.fatfreekitchen.com

Acne or pimples are caused by hormonal changes, wrong food habits and improper skin care. Acne remedy, remedies given below are based on herbs and natural ingredients that treat your acne like magic and help improve the skin disorders.

Grind nutmeg with unboiled milk and apply on affected area. This works as a magic. Pimples should disappear without leaving a mark.
Make a paste by mixing 3 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. Repeat for two weeks, pimples will disappear forever.
Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
Make orange peel paste by grinding it in some water. Apply on and around pimples.
Rub fresh garlic on and around pimples. Pimples will disappear without a mark with regular applications.
Mix 1 tablespoon groundnut oil with 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice to prevent formation of blackheads and pimples .
Apply fresh mint juice over the face every night for the treatment of pimples, insect stings, eczema, scabies, & other skin infections.
Apply a paste of fresh fenugreek leaves over the face every night for 10-15 minutes and washed with warm water. This will prevent pimples, blackheads, and wrinkles.
Apply juice of raw papaya (including the skin and seed) on swelling pimples.
Apply fresh lime juice mixed to a glass of boiled milk as a face wash for pimples.
Mix lime juice and rose water in equal portions. Apply on affected area. Wash it off after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water.
Apply ripe tomatoes pulp on pimples and kept up to 1 hour, then wash.

This article has been written by
http://www.fatfreekitchen.com/.
For more visit the web site
home remedies for acne or pimples http://www.fatfreekitchen.com/beauty/acne-home-remedy.html

Acne Scars

About the Author

None

Acne home remedies

2008-09-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Acne home remedies

Robert Kokoska

Acne, which is a skin disorder most common in teenagers at
puberty when their hormones are starting to develop. Acne which
is often the blight of adolescence is known to follow some
people into adulthood.

Eating a healthy diet can be an acne cure for many people but
it is definitely a natural acne treatment for everyone. Home
remedies are among some of the best treatments for acne.
Prescription acne medication can scar if not used appropriately.

When it comes to wearing makeup the natural look is always
refreshing. Cosmetic products with sulfates, harsh red dyes,
heavy oils are hard on the skin blocking the pores and
contributing to an outbreak.

Cleansing creams with chlorides, oils and alcohol used to treat
acne can be damaging to the skin because they are sometimes too
harsh. It is very important to read the labels carefully before
purchasing these products to see just what you are using. Also
cleansing your face at least 3 times a day so there is minimal
opportunity for pore blockage is one of the best remedies for
keeping outbreaks to a minimum.

There are several natural home remedies for acne that you
either have in your own kitchen or you can get from the health
food store inexpensively. Just because these home remedies are
considered natural treatments for acne, does not mean that you
should be less cautious than you would be with prescription acne
medications or over-the-counter acne products.

You should always check with a doctor before undertaking any
home remedy. Some home remedies for acne turn out to be the best
treatments for acne in the end simply because they are not as
hard on the skin. Home remedies used to treat acne should not
only take care of any acne problems that you are having but also
moisten and rejuvenate your skin.

GARLIC: Garlic is one of natures strongest antibiotics and used
externally by cutting open a clove of garlic and rubbing it on
the problem area. People told me that it doesn't burn but it
did. What did work better for me was to crush the garlic clove
and mix it with half a cup of hot water in a pan. Soak a clean
wash cloth in the solution and then apply to the affected areas
only. This should within a few days unclog infected pores. It is
smelly and should be done before bed so you can wash it off the
next morning.

LEMON: There are several things that you can do with fresh
lemon. Slice a lemon in half and rub it on the effected area and
leave it over night and rinse your face in the morning or
squeeze the juice and mix it with rose water and apply to the
effected areas.

TEATREE OIL: Teatree oil usually costs about $9-$12 for an 8 to
12 oz bottle and it works wonders on the skin leaving a very
refreshing feeling behind because you can actually feel it
working by cleaning the pores of your skin. I recommend that you
dilute it with water first before attempting to use it at full
strength. The idea is to cleanse and rejuvenate the skin as
anything that leaves extreme discomfort is not good for your
skin.

CUCUMBER: This is one of the most gentle and refreshing
treatments that I have ever used and not only does it help treat
acne but also refreshes the skin and leaves your skin looking
and feeling younger. What you should do is blend the cucumber
into a paste and apply. You can leave it on the skin for 30 to
45 minutes and then wash it off.

ICE: One of the most simple and least expensive remedies of all
is good old fashioned ice that you make daily. You can use this
at any time and it will reduce any swelling that you have caused
by acne but should be used at the onset of a breakout.

There are so many home remedies that I could not even begin to
list them all and since everyone's skin is different you will
have to find remedies that work well for you. It is important to
know to be careful with your skin.

Many times out of aggravation we burst a pimple when a simple
remedy can be the best solution, and don't leave a scar like
poking at a pimple normally does. Your skin is an indication of
your health and when you have healthy skin then you are a more
confident person.

About the author:

If you're serious about eliminating your acne, you should try
the popular href="http://www.1st-for-acne.com/recommended/3days.html">3 day
acne program.

For more acne articles visit: href="http://www.1st-for-acne.com">Natural Acne Treatment

Acne Cure With a Pill, What Else Is Working Today?

2008-09-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

Acne Cure With a Pill, What Else Is Working Today?

Martin Sephens

One of the most frustrating and embarrassing skin conditions
faced by nearly every teen, and many adults, is Acne. This
condition is caused by pores in the skin becoming clogged, and
the skin's natural oils becoming trapped. The pores usually clog
up due to skin cells shedding too quickly, and then blocking the
oils in the skin from draining properly. Then bacteria trapped
in the skin begins to grow, and whiteheads, blackheads or other
lesions form.

There are quite different levels of severity of acne, the most
common being Acne Vulgaris, which is simple pimples, whiteheads,
and blackheads. It is a common form of teen acne, and is usually
easy to treat.

A more common variety of adult acne is Acne Rosacea, which can
cause blood vessels to burst under the skin, as well as
whiteheads, but is recognizable by a lack of blackheads.
Treatment for this adult form is quite different than treatment
for teen acne, so a doctor should be consulted.

Much more severe is Acne Conglobata, which is rare, but usually
strikes males under 30. Symptoms include large lesions, and
extensive blackheads. It can cause permanent skin damage
including infections and scarring, to say nothing of the
psychological damage. It needs to be treated by a doctor.

However it happens, acne can be embarrassing and awkward, to say
nothing of the potential for scars and permanent damage. So what
to do?

There are several commercially available Acne medications
available by prescription. Some of these include Adapalene,
Benzol Peroxide, and Isotretinoin treatments like Accutane.
While Benzol Peroxide is available through many over the counter
treatments like Oxy Clear, generally Isotretinoin treatments are
considered the most effective.

Accutane, the most popular of these Acne solutions, is a pill
taken for 15 to 20 weeks. It is generally prescribed for severe
cases of Acne that do not respond to other treatments. Because
of the strong likelihood of severe deformities in children born
to women taking Accutane while pregnant, many women are asked to
take birth control by their doctors when taking this medication.
Other side effects may include dry cracked lips and skin, and
muscle and joint pain. Don't want to risk or endure the side
effects, then you may want to consider a natural health remedy
discussed in part 2 of this topic.

About the author:

Martin Stephens writes for Acne-Treatment-Steps.Com PART 2 of
this article discusses natural remedies, available at
http://www.acne-treatment-steps.com

Acne Control The Natural Way!

2008-09-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Acne Control The Natural Way!

Kirsten Hawkins

Want to get rid of those zits in your face but you are currently low on budget? How about looking for acne control to avoid the sudden appearance of acne in your skin? So how do we do this?

First, what is acne? Acne is a skin disorder caused by the hormones action on the oil glands of the skin which is called the sebaceous glands. The excretion of oils from this glands can lead to congested skin pores. This is when acne occurs. The face, neck, chest, back and shoulders is where the glands are most profuse, that is why most acne are found on this locations. People who are with this kind of disorder often tends to be depressed, and humiliated.

There are a lot of factors that can generate acne to transpire. First is our Genes. Genetics can't be changed but other factors like our daily routine and the way we take care of our skin can be improved to make acne control no problem at all. Don't feel so sad about your acne because there's lots of things you can do. This acne control tips will help you say bye-bye to those zits.

1. Include Fruits and Vegetables in your daily Diet. A healthy diet consists of at least four to five servings of fruits and vegetables. Acne control will be a lot easier if you start including this in your daily habit.

2. Rose water can be used as a facial cleanser. Dipped in a cotton, clean your face using this everyday for at least two to three times each day.

3. Don't wait for your pimples to form. If you see a bit of it in your face, do something. Acne control is best done early. Pat some ice on the affected area for this will make it less swollen.

4. Acne control is easier when accompanied with multivitamins. Start taking vitamins that contains zinc supplement. Zinc helps in making your skin stronger and acne resistant.

5. Cucumber can help in acne control. Blend it with some water to form a mask. Put it in your face and leave it for about half an hour before rinsing it off. This is a good and affordable acne control remedy that can also refresh your skin.

6. Use only mild soaps and avoid soaps that contains petroleum based products and animal based ingredient for this causes your skin to get dry and irritated.

7. Using alcohol free facial cleansers makes Acne control trouble-free. Alcohol tends to dry your skin more.

8. Makeup also prompt the occurrence of acne. Choose your makeup wisely. Most of the makeup available contains petroleum based ingredients that makes skin dry. An all natural makeup helps acne control become more effortless.

9. Lastly, Drinking loads of water is very important. It flushes out the dirt in our body, Making acne control more natural.

Now you have a list of some helpful tips in acne control. It is your choice if you are to do these methods. There are lots of ways in acne control, be it naturally or by technology. Skin products are always around for you to pick your choice. The thing is, these products are very costly. If you are the innovative type of person, better try this methods in acne control. It is all natural and wont do any harm in your body. No side effects of course! Plus, you can really save a bunch out of this. There's no harm in trying! Saying goodbye to those acne is just a step away!

About The Author

Kirsten Hawkins is a freelance writer specializing in skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. Visit http://www.acnesolution411.com/ for more information on acne and acne treatments.

Acne Cannot Be Cured but it can Be Resolved with a Home Remedy for Acne

2008-09-08T07:10:00.000-07:00

Acne Cannot Be Cured but it can Be Resolved with a Home Remedy for Acne

Keith Forster

Acne is a skin disorder for which medical science has not yet
developed any treatment for complete cure. However, there are
quite a number of acne treatments and medications available in
the market. Also, many acne sufferers exercise the use of home
remedy for acne.

Before anything is said about home remedy for acne, let it be
first established that science has already found evidences to
counteract the stand of many acne myths and fallacies. Take for
example the excess consumption of chocolates, peanuts and oily
foods. In actuality, these foods, though rich in oil, are not
consequential to acquiring acne. Additionally, dirt or foods
neither cause acne.

Acne is brought for by several internal actions in the body, the
most significant of which is the excess sebum produced by the
oil glands termed as sebaceous glands. Consequentially, bacteria
will thrive on the skin pores due to the extra oil. This then
will be acted upon by the white blood cells, which will trigger
the natural inflammation. Once this occurs, the skin disorder
will trigger the onset of acne. But beyond this factor, there
are still a number of indirect causes to acne such as hormonal
imbalances, stress, unhealthy lifestyle and naturally oily skin.

The most common home remedy for acne is the skin oil removal
through frequent washing. It is recommended that washing of the
face as a part of a home remedy for acne is done only twice a
day, once in the morning and later I the evening. In line with
this, an alternative home remedy for acne is the complete
cleaning of the body. Remember that when this home remedy for
acne is performed, it is essential that the face is not rubbed
too rigorously as this may spread the infection throughout the
entire face surface. Also, only mild soaps and not scrubs, must
be used.

Another common home remedy for acne is the use of benzoyl
peroxide. This topical treatment (some may call it homeophatic
treatment) works wonders for many mild acne patients. Majority
of over the counter acne medications contains a certain level of
benzoyl peroxide. This comes in forms of lotions, soap, gel and
creams. Obviously, it is applied on the surface of the skin.

Basically, it is used to dry the skin so that the excess sebum
can be eliminated. This home remedy for acne may dry your skin
if too much solution is applied. However, this can be resolved
through reducing the frequency and quantity of application.

Another frequently used home remedy for acne is the use of ice
cubes. Some acne sufferers wash their faces with ice cubes for
ten minutes. This home remedy for acne relieves the pain of
inflammation for some but this process naturally closes the skin
pores so that the skin penetration of the acne-causing bacteria
is prevented.

Additionally, a housewife who has an acne patient husband
discovered an unusual home remedy for acne. She related that one
day, she just decided to pick a bottle of Head and Shoulders
while shopping and had it used by her husband to treat the acne
prone parts of his skin. Amazingly, within 3 days the acne
inflammation her husband was suffering for many years subsided.

Moreover, herbs, teas and spices are also useful as home
remedies for acne. More specifically, included in the selection
of nature's home remedy for acne are garlic, rosemary, and
herbal teas. The basic principle for all these herbal home
remedies are to apply them on acne infected areas. Leave them
for some minutes and you will see that in days, your skin may
arrive to smoother, healthier and evenly toned texture. For
garlic however, it is essential that you do not leave it on your
skin for too long as it may burn the skin surface.

About the author:

Visit our web site at http://www.acne-faq.com for more Acne
information, tips, remedies and treatments that will help you to
overcome your acne skin problem.

Acidophilus and the Treatment for IBS

2008-09-03T07:01:00.001-07:00

Acidophilus and the Treatment for IBS

Danna Schneider

Why Acidophilus? How Does it Help Treat My IBS?

Acidophilus has long been used as a very important part of
natural IBS treatment for a few reasons. Acidophilus is thought
to help control and help correct bacterial imbalances in the
digestive tract and colon, which is said to be one of the major
contributing factors to the IBS condition. So, what exactly IS
acidophilus, and why should you incorporate into your overall
treatment for IBS?

Acidophilus is a type of "healthy" bacteria that is found in
natural yogurt, which provides a supportive bacterial
environment for intestinal tracts which have been damaged due to
long term antibiotic usage or illness.

Taking acidophilus supplements or getting a lot of acidophilus
in your diet (eating a lot of yogurt with live cultures), has
shown to help improve candida (candidiasis, or yeast imbalance)
and yeast infections that occur in a woman's vagina. It also has
been useful in helping to remedy and control the symptoms of
IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

How Exactly does the Acidophilus Bacteria Help in the
Treatment and Curing of IBS?

Well, Acidophilus helps treat IBS is many ways, but the most
important are that it:

1.) Acidohphilus helps treat diarrhea associated with IBS by
helping to correct the bacterial imbalances caused by long term
antibiotic use. Long term antibiotic use has been shown to build
up unhealthy flora and bacteria in the colon and digestive
tract, causing diarrhea, bloating and irregularity.

The reason for this is that most antibiotics have a serious side
effect in that they destroy a lot of the health "friendly"
bacteria in our digestive tract that prevent nasty digestive
problems such as excess gas, bloating and diarrhea. Acidophilus
benefits our entire digestive system since it brings back an
optimal natural balance of the bacteria that inhabit the human
digestive system.

2.) Acidophilus helps to reduce the flatulence associated with
IBS by restoring a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive
tract, it helps keep the gas-producing bacteria in the large
intestine from multiplying, and therefore decreases the
incidence, severity and frequency of gastrointestinal pain and
flatulence. This is a major benefit for IBS sufferers in the
treatment of their IBS, since much of the discomfort IBS induces
is caused by gas buildup and pressure.

Another Acidophilus IBS Benefit:

Another added benefit of Acidophilus is that people who are
lactose intolerant can take this supplement, since it does not
have an adverse effect on them, and they may be missing out on
the beneficial effects of lactobacillus and acidophilus due to
their condition since yogurt and foods with active yogurt
cultures is out of the question.

Did you know there are over 400 different types of bacteria
living in your digestive tract, some that you benefit from
greatly, and some that produce gas, bloating, constipation and
even diarrhea? That just goes to show the importance of these
bacteria, and how easy it might be to have an imbalance of
healthy, friendly bacteria and the destructive type which often
causes most of the problems associated with IBS.

As you can see, acidophilus as a treatment for IBS should be an
integral part of your comprehensive treatment for IBS. Make sure
this is incorporated as part of your regimen, and I am certain
you will feel the benefits of its positive effects sooner than
you think.

About the author:

Visit href="http://www.herbal-therapeutics.com/herbal-remedy-ibs.html">
Herbal Remedy for IBS with Acidophilus for more
information on one of the most powerful, multifunctional and
multisymptom targeted IBS remedies on the market today. Danna
Schneider is the webmaster of href="http://www.herbal-therapeutics.com">Herbal Medicine and
Natural Supplements

Acid Reflux/Heartburn - Simple Steps to Relief

2008-09-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

Acid Reflux/Heartburn - Simple Steps to Relief

Andrew Kelly

ACID REFLUX/HEARTBURN - Effective Strategies to Stop the Burning. by Andrew Kelly

You've seen the advertisements: Acid reflux is a horrible disease that can cause damage to the
oesophagus and lead to cancer. Are these claims realistic, or simply exaggerated to sell over
the counter medications? The fact is that doctors don't even agree on the causes, treatments,
and long-term risks related to heartburn, so you can believe what you want about the ads.

Heartburn is the uncomfortable feeling resulting from acid reflux, or GERD, gastroesophageal
reflux disease (try saying that out loud a few times). It can feel like a burning sensation
(hence, the name), but can also feel like pressure in the chest, which is why it is sometimes
confused with feelings associated with heart attacks.

Acid reflux occurs when the muscle between the stomach and the oesophagus gets weak or relaxes
at the wrong time. The result is that the stomach contents, including the acid, move up into
the oesophagus. Because the oesophagus doesn't have the protective lining that the stomach
does, the acid literally burns the oesophagus.

What Works?

Several non-prescription drugs may be effective for mild to moderate acid reflux,
such as antacids, which neutralize stomach acids. These include well-known over the counter
medications such as Tums and Rolaids. Another option is H2 receptor antagonists, which reduce
the production of stomach acids. These include Axid AR, Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, and Zantac 75.
Pepcid complete is the only of these that combines an antacid with an H2 receptor antagonist.
Which is the best treatment? One study found that Pepcid complete performed better than either
an antacid alone or an H2 receptor antagonist alone.

Prescription drugs prescribed to treat acid reflux are called proton-pump inhibitors. These
include Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, and Protonix. While these are equally effective,
one study did find that Nexium may heal esophageal sores faster.

Homeopathic Remedies

Combined with homeopathic remedies, heartburn may be treated effectively
with less reliance on over the counter or prescription medications. Together, these solutions
may provide the answers where just one solution fails to deliver on the promise.

Natural options that may help reduce GERD include deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which may
bring fast relief and help heal damaged lining. Aloe Vera juice may also act quickly to bring
relief. For those with chronic problems, Gamma-oryzanol (rice bran oil) may be useful, as could
choline, pantothenic acid, and thiamin. These natural solutions may provide more effective
short-term relief as well as provide long-term dietary benefits.

Why Try a Homeopathic Remedy?

The benefits of natural solutions is that they are often less
costly and reduce the chances of becoming reliant on a particular solution. Natural solutions
include treating the cause as much as the affect, and experimenting with diet and alternative
treatments may help lessen the cause of the problem. Additionally, all of the homeopathic
remedies mentioned above can be used along with over the counter or prescription medications.

Does Acid Reflux Cause Cancer?

Studies on acid reflux and cancer vary. One study showed that
chronic acid reflux increased the chances of oesophageal cancer by as much as eight times.
Another study determined that the risk of cancer is not nearly as much as was once thought.
Chronic acid reflux can lead to Barrett's oesophagus, or BE, which has been thought to lead to
an increase in cancer. A study conducted by a group of medical doctors found that the risk of
cancer from BE is not as much as previously thought, stating that BE will not cause cancer for
most people.

What is not questioned is whether or not acid reflux is uncomfortable. Chronic GERD is
difficult to live with, and experimenting with both traditional medications and natural
remedies may be the best solution. As research continues on the causes and affects of GERD,
additional options are likely to come along.

____________________________________________________________

Andrew Kelly keeps you up to date on the latest Information & Strategies to help you control
your Acid Reflux/Heartburn. Visit this link for more Answers: http://www.acidrefluxfree.com

About the Author

Andrew Kelly keeps you up to date with the latest Acid Reflux/Heartburn relief Andrew Kelly is a long term sufferer from Acid Reflux-Heartburn, he has dedicated years to finding the latest treatment and relief strategies and tips to help everyone cure the burning.

Acid reflux and heartburn natural remedies part II

2008-08-28T17:59:00.000-07:00

Acid reflux and heartburn natural remedies part II

rudy silva

If you have acid reflux or heartburn, using natural remedies to rebalance your stomach is what nature intended. Listed are four natural remedies that you can use to rebalance the acid in your stomach

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has many medicinal uses aside from being great for various pastries. It has an antiseptic effect and has been historically used for colds and flu's. It has fighting power against Candida albicans and has the ability to settle acidic stomachs.

Here's how to use cinnamon for an acid stomach or heartburn:

· Toast raisin bread

· Butter the raisin bread

· Sprinkle cinnamon on the bread

· Sprinkle cardamon on the bread

When you eat this toasted bread, chew slowly and completely before swallowing to allow the digestive juices in your mouth to start breaking down this food.

Cardamon, which is found in India, has been used successful in treating Celiac disease, which is an intolerance to gluten found in most breads.

Grapefruit Skins

Here is a way to settle your acid reflux stomach with grapefruit. Use only organic grapefruit for this remedy. Here's what to do:

· Grate the entire outer skin of an organic grapefruit

· Spread them out on a flat dish to dry

· Allow them to get crinkly dry

· Store them in a glass jar or zip lock bag

Whenever you get an upset stomach, acid reflux or heartburn start chewing and eating these strips of dried grapefruit. These strips will settle out your stomach. Eat only a few of them and test to see how many you need.

Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce can be used to eliminate an acid reflux or heartburn condition. This lettuce is high in minerals and is highly alkaline.

Here's what you need to do:

· Buy an organic romaine lettuce head

· Wash in distilled water

· Cut up the leaves and place them in a blender

· Add cold distilled water to make a slurry

· Add a slight amount of honey to give it taste

Drink a 4-8 oz to get relief from your acid reflux or acid stomach

Mace, Nutmeg, and Slippery Elm

Here is a natural remedy that uses mace and nutmeg, which has a history of treating indigestion, acid stomach, heartburn, acid reflux, stomach gas, and vomiting.

Here's how to use it with half and half and slippery elm root herb. Slippery elm herb can be purchase in any herb store in powder.

· 1 teaspoon of slippery elm bark

· a pinch of nutmeg

· a pinch of mace

· add distilled water to make a smooth slurry

· heat a pint of half and half to boil

· pull half and half from stove and add herb slurry

· stir in herb slurry

Allow this mixture to cool. Drink up to ½ cup at a time. Store the unused portion in the refrigerator. When drinking the next cup, warm this mixture up.

Acid reflux and heartburn require alkaline nutrients to provide relief. These 4 natural remedies, when prepared properly, will give you the relief you need from these conditions. Try them; you will be surprised on how well they work

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid e-books. He writes a newsletter called natural-remedies-thatwork.com and his information on other topics can be seen at: http://www.acidreflux-relief.info

Acid Reflux and Heartburn Natural Remedies

2008-08-27T07:25:00.000-07:00

Acid Reflux and Heartburn Natural Remedies - Part 2

Rudy Silva

Cinnamon has many medicinal uses aside from being great for various pastries. It has an antiseptic effect and has been historically used for colds and flu's. It has fighting power against Candida albicans and has the ability to settle acidic stomachs.

Here's how to use cinnamon for an acid stomach or heartburn:

Toast raisin bread
Butter the raisin bread
Sprinkle cinnamon on the bread
Sprinkle cardamon on the bread

When you eat this toasted bread, chew slowly and completely before swallowing to allow the digestive juices in your mouth to start breaking down this food.

Cardamon, which is found in India, has been used successful in treating Celiac disease, which is an intolerance to gluten found in most breads.

Grapefruit Skins

Here is a way to settle your acid reflux stomach with grapefruit. Use only organic grapefruit for this remedy. Here's what to do:

Grate the entire outer skin of an organic grapefruit
Spread them out on a flat dish to dry
Allow them to get crinkly dry
Store them in a glass jar or zip lock bag

Whenever you get an upset stomach, acid reflux or heartburn start chewing and eating these strips of dried grapefruit. These strips will settle out your stomach. Eat only a few of them and test to see how many you need.

Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce can be used to eliminate an acid reflux or heartburn condition. This lettuce is high in minerals and is highly alkaline.

Here's what you need to do:

Buy an organic romaine lettuce head
Wash in distilled water
Cut up the leaves and place them in a blender
Add cold distilled water to make a slurry
Add a slight amount of honey to give it taste

Drink a 4-8 oz to get relief from your acid reflux or acid stomach.

Mace, Nutmeg, and Slippery Elm

Here is a natural remedy that uses mace and nutmeg, which has a history of treating indigestion, acid stomach, heartburn, acid reflux, stomach gas, and vomiting.

Here's how to use it with half and half and slippery elm root herb. Slippery elm herb can be purchase in any herb store in powder.

1 teaspoon of slippery elm bark
a pinch of nutmeg
a pinch of mace
add distilled water to make a smooth slurry
heat a pint of half and half to boil
pull half and half from stove and add herb slurry
stir in herb slurry

Allow this mixture to cool. Drink up to ½ cup at a time. Store the unused portion in the refrigerator. When drinking the next cup, warm this mixture up.

Acid reflux and heartburn require alkaline nutrients to provide relief. These 4 natural remedies, when prepared properly, will give you the relief you need from these conditions. Try them; you will be surprised on how well they work.

About Rudy: Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. He writes a newsletter called "Natural-Remedies-ThatWork.com" and his information on other topics can be seen at http://www.acidreflux-relief.info.

A Rush Home to Rapture

2008-08-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

A Rush Home to Rapture

Keith Varnum

Riding a rush, being juiced, flying high—this is the feeling we strive for every day.

What's the huge attraction to this heightened state? Many medical authorities would have us believe that the desire for a constant high is an addiction—and an unhealthy and unrealistic one at that.

A Built-in Homing Device

My life experience reveals the opposite. Such a drive is not only healthy, but also very realistic. Our attraction to highs is a natural, built-in homing device implanted in us by the Universe. This attraction leads us to the Real McCoy in life—the real deal, real satisfaction. It's God's bait to get us to bite deeper into life's offerings.

A Call to Awaken Our Deeper Nature

This desire for peak excitement is fueled by a deep inner knowing that this buzz is a glimpse of our true natural state. On a very primal level, we connect this super feeling with our natural inheritance, our rightful birthright to feel good all the time.

It's the Universe's way of leading us home to the truth—that our very essence is this high frequency vibrational feeling. Our true "normal" human condition is to feel good.

Clues Abound

When I was ten years old, I noticed a strong, ecstatic rush of sensation within my being when I was in the presence of a wild animal, a cascading waterfall, a howling wind or an ancient tree.

I felt the exact same physical and psychic rapture when I sang Christmas carols and wild party songs, played Bach on the piano and Bo Diddly on the guitar.

Surprisingly, I reveled in the same tingling in my body when I sat in an empty church or a deserted sports stadium. I was the willing prey to the penetrating sound of silence.

Later, as I transformed from a boy into a teenager, I enjoyed this same intense emergence of sensual-spiritual electricity, warmth and connection when I began to jitterbug, go skinny dipping under a full moon, and fall in love over and over again.

What's Going on Here?

I was being introduced to much more than romantic, sexual awakening. My whole being was opening into the wonder and power of my true physical-spiritual nature: high voltage electricity!

This divine initiation cannot be discounted and discarded as merely "overactive hormones!" It is so much more.

In the West, we might describe this profound inner potency as Natural Vitality. The Chinese call this electro-magnetic force chi, the Japanese ki, the Indians prana, and native peoples primal life force.

Charisma is King

Natural Aliveness goes by many names. We describe a person possessing a lot of natural electricity as having a lot of charisma or a magnetic personality. Athletes seek the much-revered runner's high. When the gods are gracing someone's goals, we say the turned-on person is groovin, smokin, cookin, steamin—on fire!

No Waiting in Line

This exalted state is not the exclusive enjoyment of a fortunate birth or fanatic athlete. There's no shortage, quota or waiting list for this God-given gift. This Feel Good State is more available than most folks realize.

Place Your Order

To live in a high octane, high octave state, all we need to do is order it. When we invite and welcome this exhilaration, we soon realize that it's available 24/7 from endless sources in our everyday environment.

Feel Beyond the Form

The secret to opening to the rush of life's Feel Good Energy is to look beneath the surface of whatever outer forms we encounter. The key to unlocking the juice is the intention to experience life "behind the scenes."

When you approach any activity with the intention and attitude that you will receive energy—a lift or boost—from the interplay, then you will. And, in the same manner, when you expect the interaction to require of you a lot of extra effort—work, struggle—then it will.

The seer (see-er) determines the outcome of every life interaction to be either energy-giving or energy-draining.

A Rose Is a Rose Is a Rose

Ancient and native peoples know the truth about energy. So do quantum physicists. Energy—Life Force—constitutes and animates all solid "things." Underneath all surface appearances flows pulsating power. Behind all formal exteriors lies electric aliveness.

Energy is energy is energy—no matter what the form. Knowing this fact, you can consciously decide to tap into the aliveness—the vitality—at the core of all matter, form and situations.

The Gift

The most profound, practical benefit of Natural Vitality is the gateway it gives you to receive energy from every aspect of your environment—human, plant, animal, mineral, chemical, plastic, solar, stellar, elemental, extraterrestrial, inter-dimensional, angelic and Ascended Master.

Natural Vitality is choosing to have a conscious, constant, vibrant, heart-body-soul connection with all living beings and all forms of life—even the "so-called" inanimate ones.

Fund Your Dreams

This Life Force can be used to heal, enrich and transform yourself, others and the planet. When you learn to allow Natural Essence to rise upward through your physical chakra energy centers, you rejuvenate every cell in your body, dissolve blocked emotional pathways and access unlimited power to create your dreams.

By connecting this energy with the heart, it becomes prayer. As this energy ascends into your consciousness, visions and revelations blossom. Kundalini Rising ultimately leads to communion with the Divine.

Sacred In-to-me-see

Sacred Intimacy is an ancient and graceful channel to unlocking Natural Vitality.

To call something "sacred" means to hallow or venerate it, to consecrate and dedicate it to an important purpose—like allowing yourself to be filled with Source Essence. "Intimate" in Latin means "a close friend."

In-to-me-see is choosing to see every experience as a friend, ready to give you a sacred gift if you allow it. To see into the true nature of any form or situation is to find a friend, a field of self-feeding energy. You have the power to make every activity a "sacred act"—be it petting an animal, cutting vegetables, or shopping in a supermarket.

Yoga Unites

Yoga means union. Seeing the common energy nature of all life forms and situations allows us to feel union with all people and experiences. All life encounters become energy-enriching interactions. Meld into the flow of your shower, the softness of your bed, the color of the sunset, the roar of a wave, the curve of a rock.

Sex Connects

"Sex" means coitus, union, a coming together. When you experience all aspects of life as having the same essential nature as you, you easily feel the connection, merging and sharing of Life Force with all "things." Exchange energy with your plants, your paintings, your fresh clean laundry!

Ecstasy is Our Natural State

The word "ecstasy" comes from the Greek meaning of ec: to move out of and stasis: status quo, static, fixed. When you "break through to the other side" of any old stuck condition, you enjoy the exhilaration of experiencing life in a fresh, different, new way. Bliss is our birthright.

Re-Light the Fire in Your Belly

We're all born with a passion and zest for life. We meet challenges, obstacles and disappointments along the rough road of growing up. Much of our Original Joy for life becomes muted.

You can re-kindle the exuberance of being alive by approaching life as an adventurous treasure hunt for the lost gold—your natural radiant core.

And, lucky for us, all paths lead to Primal Life Force—because Natural Aliveness is the very essence of the path itself.

Keith Varnum has 30 years of practical success as an author, accupuncturist, personal coach, filmmaker, vision quest guide and international seminar leader, and is the owner of http://www.TheDream.com and http://TheCareerDoctor.net.

keith@TheDream.com

A Natural Remedy for Gingivitis, Toothaches, and Mouth Sores

2008-08-21T06:38:00.000-07:00

A Natural Remedy for Gingivitis, Toothaches, and Mouth Sores

rudy silva

veryone has a variety of bacteria in their mouth. Some have more than others. This bacterium helps you by beginning the digestive process.

Excess bacteria in your mouth have now been found to cause more than tooth decay, gingivitis or gum disease. So, you need to know, even though you might not have gingivitis, how to control these plaque-building bacteria in your mouth.

Bacteria that create gingivitis live in your plaque and cause your gums to inflame, bleed, and separate from your teeth. You can also have bad breath when you have gingivitis. In more severe cases, your gums become sore, teeth hurt, gums recede, and teeth loosen.

To stop the inflammation and gum separation use this natural remedy to kill some of these bacteria and strengthen your gums in your mouth.

Here are the herbs and the formula you will need to make a remedy for a mild case of gingivitis:

2 parts white oak bark herb – powder

1 part myrrh gum herb – power or granules

3/4 part Peppermint leaves converted to powder

½ part anise herb – power or seeds

1/8 part clove - powder

If herbs and leaves are not in powder form, grind them in a coffee grinder. Use this formula to make as much powder as you want.

Place the mixture into a small container. I usually use a small-unused vitamin bottle.

I usually mix a small amount and use a tablespoon as my measuring tool. For example, 2 tablespoons of white oak, 1 tablespoon of myrrh gum, ¾ tablespoon of peppermint leaves, and so on. The measurements do not have to be so precise.

How to use it:

To control bacteria in your mouth, use this power once a week. If you have gingivitis, you can use this 3 times a day. Place some powder on your toothbrush and brush your teeth and gums. After brushing spit out, a few time, the saliva and residue powder. Don't rinse out your mouth since you want to keep the active herb powders in your month. You can swallow any that remains in your mouth with no problem.

This powder combination is bitter, but quite powerful and will get the job done. You can add more peppermint powder to make it less bitter, if you like.

For severe cases of gingivitis and toothaches, you can also moist some powder with distilled water and then place the paste all along the your teeth and gums – front and back. Leave the paste in your mouth as long as you can. Don't worry about the herbs getting in between your teeth. This remedy works.

My wife was schedule for a root canal last year and a few weeks before her tooth started paining and couldn't sleep. So I made this remedy. She just placed the powers around the painful area. It wasn't long before the pain stopped and she was able to go to sleep.

There have been other clients that have used this remedy for a month and successfully avoided having the dentist apply gingivitis treatment. In cases of severe gingivitis, go see your dentist and at the same time use this remedy.
Rudy Silva is a natural nutritionist. He writes a newsletter called "Natural Remedies That work." You can subscribe to his newsletter and read some of the back issues, which give you information of how to have better health. Read his latest newsletter at: http://www.natural-remedies-thatwork.com/archive.html

A Constipation Remedy Using Potassium and Prunes

2008-08-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

A Constipation Remedy Using Potassium and Prunes

Rudy Silva

Potassium and prunes are a natural constipation remedy that you can quickly use to help you get constipation relief.

Potassium is needed in your colon walls to insure that peristaltic action occurs. Without potassium, colon walls are weak and unable to respond and contract properly when fecal matter needs to be move.

Potassium in your colon wall tissues brings in more oxygen, which is required for good cell function and elimination of toxins. In addition, potassium creates an alkaline environment inside and outside the cell, which help protect cell walls from bacteria, fungus, and other pathogens.
Potassium is a powerful source when it comes to cleaning, feeding and building your colon walls. Removing the thin layer of buildup – harden mucus, dried fecal matter, waste derby, heavy metals - against your colon wall can be accomplished by eating those foods that are high in potassium.

Excess buildup on your colon walls of fecal matter and toxins is a cause of continual constipation. This build up prevents your colon walls from functioning properly.

Potassium is necessary for reducing anxiety and depression. These conditions can affect peristaltic movements of your colon. Lack of it causes muscles and organs to sag and lack tone.

Potassium, also, draws water out of the body. So when potassium is in your colon it attracts water and pulls it into the fecal matter. This makes your fecal matter softer and easier to move along the colon.

To get more potassium into your diet make a constipation remedy drink by,

Pouring hot water over dried prunes and waiting 10 minutes. Then eat the prunes and drink the juice Do this on an empty stomach in the morning.

The high concentration of potassium and vitamin A, in prunes, stimulates enzymatic processes. These processes melt down fecal wall wastes and dissolve blockages. They also activate peristaltic action to move this waste out through your rectum.

The foods to eat that are high in potassium are:

Kale, cabbage, yellow tomatoes, spinach, carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, cauliflower, alfalfa sprouts, goat milk, sesame seeds, wheat germ brewers yeast, flax seed, grapes, green peppers, pineapple, beets, potatoes with skin Blackstrap molasses

If you have any kidney disease, do not take potassium supplements unless directed by your doctor. If you are pregnant, take potassium only under a doctor's direction.

If you are on any type of drugs, do not take potassium unless directed by your doctor.

When you have constipation it is best to take potassium supplement. Once you have your constipation eliminated back off on the potassium you are taking and depend on your potassium dose from the foods you eat.

My recommended Potassium dose is 1000 – 3000 mg each day taken with meals.

About the Author

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. His information can be seen at http://www.constipation-remedies.for--you.info

A constipation home remedy - cayenne

2008-08-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

A constipation home remedy - cayenne

rudy silva

Cayenne is a constipation home remedy that is effective in producing peristalsis in your colon and aids digestion. It can be used regularly at every meal and when needed for constipation. Cayenne pepper is known to help thin the blood. So, it is good for improving blood circulation.

Cayenne is available in capsules of different strengths, from 5,000 heat units (HU) to 100,000 and even higher. In addition, cayenne when used with other herbs helps to deliver these herbs more efficiently to where they are needed in the body.

As a constipation home remedy, start with one capsule of 40,000 HU and always take it after you eat. You will feel a hot or slight burning feeling in the upper stomach and that's when you know its working. The feeling is like when you get heartburn. This burning sensation will pass as your body gets use to you using cayenne.

Do not use cayenne seeds, as they can be toxic. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding do not take cayenne supplements. Use cayenne only as directed on its container and only as capsules.

Cayenne has the ability to block the ulcer producing effect of NSAIDS. It also has shown to increase the body's absorption of theopylline, a drug used to treat asthma.

In his book, Left for Dead, Dick Quinn tells how Cayenne pepper saved his life after coronary bypass surgery failed to restore it. In this book, Shannon Quinn, say,

"One of the most effective stimulants, mostly, cayenne targets the digestive and the circulatory system. Cayenne regulates blood pressure, strengthens the pulse, feeds the heart, lowers cholesterol, and thins the blood. It cleanses the circulatory system, heals ulcers, stops hemorrhaging, speeds healing of wounds, rebuilds damaged tissue, eases congestion, aids digestion, regulates elimination, relieves arthritis and rheumatism, prevents the spread of infection and numbs pain."

Use the recommended dose shown on the bottle of cayenne you use.

You can also add cayenne pepper into other foods. Add cayenne to soups, salads, and other foods you like.

In soups or salads break open a cayenne capsule and mix it in. You can add 1 – 2 capsules, but first start with 1/4 or 1/2 capsule so you can get use to the hot taste.

If you are pregnant, it is considered safe to use cayenne.

Use this constipation home remedy and you will see results. It definitely has the power to eliminate constipation and keep you regular and has many other benefits, especially for your heart.

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid e-books. He writes a newsletter called natural-remedies-thatwork.com and his information on other topics can be seen at http://www.stop-constipation.com or at http://www.constipation-remedies.for--you.info

17 Tips And Remedies For The Flu

2007-05-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

D Ruplinger

The "best" flu remedy seems to vary by who you talk to. Some people think that certain over-the-counter medications are the best way to get relief. Others feel homeopathic remedies work the best. Still others feel that only their doctor can help make them make the appropriate choice.

If you talked to my husband he would tell you the best flu remedy is to not get the flu (he's not always the most helpful person). He talks smart because he hardly ever gets sick. I'm very jealous of him. I think his genes must be better than mine because he doesn't eat healthier or exercise any more than I do yet I get sick a lot more often than he does.

I catch the flu nearly every year. I've tried over-the-counter medications, some homeopathic remedies, and have gone to my doctor when I've gotten bad cases of the flu.

Below I've listed some common, and some not so common remedies for the flu. Some of the remedies are homeopathic; others involve taking over-the counter medications; while others are prescription.

1) This first item is more of a suggestion to keep yourself from getting sick again rather than a remedy but I think it's a really good tip. Put your toothbrush in a cup with hydrogen peroxide in it to prevent you from re-infecting yourself (especially if you have a cold). Toothbrushes are a haven for germs and the hydrogen peroxide will kill the bacteria on your toothbrush. You may decide to put your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide every day to kill the bacteria that accumulate.

2) In addition to putting your toothbrush in a cup of hydrogen peroxide you may want to put a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your ears. It can help kill flu (or cold) germs. Sometimes the hydrogen peroxide will sting a little. The process is to put a few drops in one ear with a cotton ball or a Q-tip. After a few minutes drain the excess fluid out onto a Kleenex or paper towel. Then do the same thing in the other ear. Repeat the process after an hour or two. Continue to repeat until the hydrogen peroxide doesn't bubble when it's put into the ear (usually after 2 or 3 times). The hydrogen peroxide is said to be most effective if it's used as soon as possible after getting sick.

3) Elderberry extract can lessen the duration of the flu according to studies done in Israel. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or herbalist for advice on how much and how often to take it, and also to make sure it will not interfere with any other medications or supplements you may already be taking.

4) Boneset is another herb said to help lessen the intensity and duration of the flu. It is usually added to boiled water, along with honey and lemon (to make it easier to drink) and then sipped. Again, consult with your doctor, pharmacist or herbalist for the recommended dosage.

5) Oscillococcinum is a popular homeopathic/natural product taken to help with the flu symptoms of body aches and pains, fever, and chills. One of the reasons it is so popular is that it does not cause drowsiness.

6) Naturoksinum is another natural flu remedy available. It is touted as being able to cut the severity of flu symptoms in half. It is one of the most popular flu remedies in France and is available for purchase in the United States.

7) Echinacea is another popular natural remedy for the

flu. Again, because it is an herbal product, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or herbalist to make sure it is safe for you to take and that it does not interfere with any other medications or supplements you are currently taking.

8) Tamiflu and Relenza are two prescription medications available for treating the flu. For either medication to work best it should be taken with two days of the onset of flu symptoms. Both Tamiflu and Relenza work by preventing the flu virus from infecting cells in the body that are still healthy, and they both work against influenza A and B.

9) Drink health juices such as mangosteen, noni, goji, aloe vera, or acai berry. They are not only great juices to drink if you get the flu, but they can also help prevent it because the juices are good at boosting a person's immune system. My personal health juice of choice is a mangosteen juice. It tastes great and helps me feel better overall.

10) There are several products available to use in your bath or even your shower to help with the symptoms of the flu. Abra Bath for colds and the flu is a product you add to bath water. It is said to help relieve congestion, reduce body aches, and help relieve the chills associated with the flu. The makers of Sudafed offer a product called Sudacare Shower Soothers. They are tablets that react with warm shower water to create vapors of eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor to help with congestion.

11) Nasal sprays to help relieve flu symptoms are available over the counter. One product is called Flu Relief. Nasal sprays aren't as popular as most other remedies though because many people dislike using nasal sprays.

12) Fever, headaches, and aching muscles are common symptoms of the flu. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, both available over the counter can help lessen the pain.

13) A persistent cough may be present when a person has the flu (http://www.microflu.com/flusymptoms/). There are many over the counter cough medicines, such as Robitussin (which has specific formulas of its products for helping with flu symptoms), to help quiet a cough associated with the flu.

14) Congestion is another symptom that a person may get with the flu. An oral decongestant can help loosen the congestion. Again there are many over the counter products available to fight flu symptoms such as congestion. Vick's vapor rub can also help ease congestion.

15) A sore throat can be another bothersome symptom of the flu. Throat lozenges or sprays can help with the pain. I gargle with warm salt water every hour when my throat is sore. It's a remedy my Mom used when I was little. It worked for me then and it still works for me now.

16) Rest is a very important part of fighting the flu. Your body needs rest to help it fight the infection in your body. So give in to that urge to cuddle up under the covers and rest. You're likely to feel better faster if you do.

17) Drink as many fluids are you can when you have the flu. Avoid drinks with caffeine because caffeinated drinks act as mild diuretics. Water is the best liquid but can be hard for someone who feels sick to drink enough of. Other good choices of liquid are clear juices, Gatorade (or any of the other sports drinks available) as well as flavored water and Pedialyte. When I was a child and had the flu my Mom always gave me 7-up to drink. I could drink it without feeling sick to my stomach and it tasted good so I was able to drink enough of it to keep myself from getting dehydrated.

Always remember that the flu (depending on what strain you have contracted) can be a life-threatening illness if not treated properly. Don't be afraid to contact your doctor if your symptoms don't start to get better in a few days or if they are very severe.

Another thing to remember when you have the flu (or are sick with anything else) is to only treat the symptoms you have. There are lots of over-the-counter products available to treat flu symptoms. Many of those products relieve multiple symptoms. But sometimes you don't have all the symptoms that particular medication treats. Look for products that treat the symptoms you have, but nothing more. You don't want to over-medicate yourself.

Disclaimer: this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat illness and disease; nor is it intended as dispensation of medical advice.

About the Author: D Ruplinger is a featured writer for http://www.microflu.com.
Visit the web site for more information on flu prevention and natural flu remedies.

Source: www.isnare.com

9 Facts Everyone Should Know About Herbal & Home Remedies

2007-05-27T22:50:00.000-07:00

Emily Clark

In the last few years herbal remedies have become very popular as an alternative treatment for a variety of illnesses and health issues. Natural health stores have popped up from coast to coast and are now quite predominant on the internet as well. Herbal remedies are offered as a treatment for everything from the common cold to more serious health issues such as cancer. Before you rush out to purchase herbal remedies, there are a few things you should know about herbal remedies, their effectiveness and possible dangers and risks that you may encounter by taking them.

One of the most important facts about herbal remedies that consumers should be aware of is the fact that, unlike other treatments, they are governed by any governmental agency. This means there is no quality assurance system in place to insure that the herbal remedy product you purchase contains nothing that would harm you, or even works for that matter.

Many herbal remedies are advertised with amazing claims of effectiveness and some even come with reported clinical trials to back up those claims. What consumers are generally unaware of is that the suggested clinical trials were performed by the marketer themselves, and not a non-biased third party lab. This means that the herbal remedy may be no more effective than a sugar pill.

Furthermore, quite a few herbal remedies have adverse affects whey combined with other medications; particularly prescription meds. This iinformation is generally not released by the marketer of the herbal remedy and it's highly possible that a consumer would never know they were ingesting a deadly cocktail by mixing an herbal remedy with the medicine prescribed to them by their doctor. A surprising number of herbal remedies, including St. John's wort, Ginko biloba and Ginseng have very dangerous side effects when mixed with antidepressants.

Ginko biloba has been known to cause problems with bleeding and could be particularly dangerous for someone about to undergo surgery or who
is already taking any type of blood thinning medication. As frightening as these facts are; consumers rarely get this information from the labels of herbal remedies.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically prohibits the manufacturers and marketers of herbal remedies from claiming that their product is able to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any kind of disease or illness. This doesn't stop many companies from coming as close to that line as possible; or even going over it. Consumers should be wary of any herbal remedy that claims any of the above.

Herbal remedies can provide positive benefits when used carefully and wisely. Consumers can safely use herbal remedies by taking the time to research the product, its effectiveness and drug interactions. Also remember to thoroughly read the product label. Some companies attempt to increase their profit margin by including fillers, such as sand, with the product.

If you aren't sure whether an herbal remedy will interact negatively with the medications you are already taking, ask your physician. He or she will be able to let you know whether you can safely take the product or not.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease.

Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

About the Author

Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.

7 Secret Weapons to Win the War of Arthritis Inflammation and Pain

2007-05-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

By Rita Kennon

Arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in America today,
impacting approximately seven million people. It is now one of
the most prevalent chronic health problems.

The estimated annual costs of arthritis to Americans are $15
billion in direct medical costs and $49 billion in indirect
costs such as lost wages. Nearly 40 million Americans have
arthritis, with 24 million of them being under 65 years old.
Projected increase of arthritis by 2020 is 60 million in the
U.S. alone.

With over a hundred variations of arthritis, the most common one
is osteoarthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease which is
related to aging. The deteriorated cartilage that covered the
ends of the bone in the joint cause's loss of movement as the
bone rubs against bone. It causes the bones to change shape, the
muscles to weaken and the reflexes to slow.

Osteoarthritis most commonly occurs in the weight-bearing
joints. Severe trauma to a joint can precipitate arthritis,
sometimes years after the initial injury. Painkillers are
effective for a while, but when the drugs no longer ease the
pain some physicians recommend surgery. Americans undergo lower
back surgery, and knee and hip replacement surgery mostly
because of osteoarthritis.

Another common arthritis known as rheumatoid arthritis is an
autoimmune disease. In autoimmune disease, the body's immune
system actually attacks its own tissue. The joints and cartilage
are normally surrounded by protective tissue called synovium
which produces a fluid that nourishes and lubricates the bones
and cartilage.

A rheumatoid arthritic patient's immune system produces white
blood cells that attack the synovium. This is what causes the
inflammation, and painful swollen joints. When the inflamed
synovium attacks the joint, bone, and cartilage it causes the
muscles around the joint to become too weak to support it
properly. Therefore chronic inflammation is the culprit that may
eventually cause damage to the cartilage and bone.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling
types of arthritis. Severe joint pain, fatigue fever, and
inflammation are the first symptoms most people notice. In more
serious cases, the autoimmune response involves other areas of
the body such as the heart, lungs, kidney or liver. Gout is
characterized by monosodium uric crystals in the joints or
tissue. It generally occurs in patients 30 to 50 years old after
many years of eating an over rich diet of purine foods. When the
kidneys can not eliminate the over production of uric acid from
the body, levels build up causing the needle like crystals to
form on the joints.

This painful disease mostly attacks small joints. The frequency
of subsequent acute attacks of gout usually increases over time.
A diet of fatty protein rich foods, excessive alcohol
consumption, and obesity are contributing factors of gout
attacks.

It is important that you take an active role in the prevention
and treatment of joint damage. There are many steps you can take
to lower your risk for developing arthritis, as well as natural
remedies to help reduce inflammation, and other symptoms.

The conventional treatment includes the use of painkillers, and
anti-inflammatory drugs. While these drugs are often helpful in
alleviating the pain, they may accelerate the degeneration of
articular surfaces thereby destroying the body's ability to
repair cartilage. Several thousand patients are admitted to
hospitals every year for complications associated with
anti-inflammatory medications.

Now that you understand that controlling inflammation is the
biggest step in combating arthritis- here are my secret
arthritis weapons:

1. Foods to avoid- eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, wheat,
corn, beef, pork, eggs, dairy, fried foods, sugar products,
refined carbohydrates and foods high in gluten which tends to
intensify inflammation.

2. Foods to eat- foods high in sulfur such as asparagus,
cabbage, garlic, and onions which may help repair cartilage and
bone. Also include fish, flax (omega-3 fatty acids), and borage
oil (omega-6 fatty acids) which can help decrease inflammation.

3. Multivitamin- including antioxidants such as vitamin E, C, A,
selenium, and zinc because we no longer get optimum amounts from
our daily diet to fight free radical attacks on the joints.

4. Exercise- beneficial in helping to reduce stiffness, and
maintain an optimum weight to help ease the pressure on those
weight bearing joints.

5. Celery seed- this wonderful natural spice contains nearly two
dozen anti-inflammatory compounds known for decreasing
inflammation.

6. Glucosamine supplement- the joints stop producing this
necessary substance that helps alleviate stiffness.

7. Chondroitin supplement- the body stops producing chrondocytes
which help maintain healthy joints.

Incorporate these 7 non-biochemical (natural) weapons into the
battlefield, and the war against arthritis will be much more
attainable- naturally.

About the author:

Rita Kennon http://www.AlternativeHealthReporter.com
Natural arthritis remedy with a 12 month guarantee
http://www.AlternativeHealthReporter.com/arthritest.html