Vitalia Natural Medicine

Advantages of Natural Healing of Ecema

2011-01-27T15:44:00.000-08:00

Eczema is an acute chronic inflammation of the body skin. The disease is indicated by redness, itching as well as exploring of oozing vesicular lesions that turn out scaly and thick. Eczema usually appears on the body where the skin is not strong. Eczema occurs internal and external part of the body skin. Internal means intense reaction of the body's immune system and the skin starts to react internally. While external means that if any objects touch the skin, some reaction starts which is exposed on the surface of the body. Thus benefits of Eczema natural treatment is to provide relief to the patients from the suffering.

Eczema natural treatment includes three therapies that will help the person to recover from his suffering. Thus three therapies in Eczema natural treatment are oatmeal treatment, using of natural cleanser and curing moisture.

The benefits of Eczema natural treatment include the use of moisture that can heal the skin from the indication of Eczema. The advantage of applying body lotion moisture on the skin is to cleanse the skin. Try to avail blueberry leaves and licorice lotion. The benefits of Blueberry and licorice protect the skin from spreading of germs and reducing the itching and redness from the skin, respectively.

What is Involved in a Personal Diet Analysis?

2011-01-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

What most dietitians require would be a food journal so they would have a clear view of what the person in question is really eating so they know what needs to be changed. The types or kinds of food plus the amounts eaten are listed down in detail. Some dietitians even go to the extent of asking their clients to list down what they are feeling when they eat their food.

This will show that there can be triggers that make a person crave or overeat a certain type of food. For example, one woman consistently listed down eating about half a pint or more of ice cream when she was stressed from work. It became clear that she didn't really need the ice cream but needed a stress release more. When the ice cream was replaced with either frozen bananas or frozen low-fat yogurt in a reasonably sized serving, and twenty minutes of exercise was done before eating took place, she lost her craving for ice-cream.

Steps like these help the clients find workable and permanent solutions.

What is a Personal Diet Analysis?

2011-01-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

Personal diet analysis is a new thing that is being exploited by people that are going on a diet. It used to be that people would only base their nutritional intake on what they'd see in health magazines and newspaper articles.

A personal diet analysis involves having a nutritionist or dietitian look over the usual diet of the client involved. Now why it should be done is for different reasons. Some people have to overhaul their diet because of health reasons or because they have problems with certain disorders like diabetes or gluten intolerance. People who are highly allergic also need their diets tweaked.

People who follow the Western diet exclusively may actually be more in need of nutritional analysis than those who don't. It's well documented that this type of diet which relies heavily on meat and potatoes causes more health problems than not. It's the aversion to fresh fruits and vegetables that plays havoc with people's inner workings.

The best option would be to go to a dietitian or nutritionist to have a personal analysis done. Several sessions are required though, over about a period of three months, to do a complete overhaul along with counseling while the changes are going on.

A Fact Check on Gemmotherapy

2011-01-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

20th century medicine has its eye on various discoveries, in its attempts to study the causes of diseases by the molecular and genetic level. The discovery of PSC plant stem cell research has paved way for useful things which appear as future solutions to dilemmas posed by cancer and viral or bacterial gene mutations. One of these remarkable discoveries in stem cell research is the use of PSC plant stem cells to create elixirs which can help prolong life expectancy in today’s world of junk food, global warming and pollution.

Although PSC plant stem cells therapy is a novel, natural way of healing, the story of PSC plant stem cells is not new. It dates back to ancient Egypt, when buds were being used in illnesses. In 1970, Dr. Pol Henry, a Belgian Medical Doctor, published his findings on the use of extracts from buds and other plant material. He called his study on phytoembryotherapy, a therapy which is based on biologic energy from plants and other natural resources. Dr. Max Tetau then popularized “gemmotherapy” or “bud therapy” in France.

PSC plant stem cells therapy is a form of therapy which used extracts from buds, young shoots and young roots. These plant parts were chosen to be made into extracts because they were believed to be the center of a plant’s energy and thus, they are the main source of therapeutic effects. These parts, made into PSC plant stem cells, also differ from the adult plant parts because they are less exposed to toxins and pollution.

Naturopathic Doctors Work Wonders!

2010-12-20T10:36:00.000-08:00

Modern hectic lifestyle can invite many diseases and ailments. We seek consultation from our doctors but the prescription does not seem to be working at times. Because of this, the immune system of our body also suffers from serious imbalance. Here is a solution to the problem - Naturopathy treatment. It is a boon for patients who have given hope by continued use of Allopathic treatments and medicines. It is an Alternative Medicine that emphasizes on the innate ability of body to maintain itself.

Naturopathy treatment includes the use of natural herbs, plants, and foods and thereby they are free from any side or adverse effect on our body. The holistic care focuses on curing from sunlight, air, water, supplemented with diet and therapies like massages and conventional medicine which helps recuperating the patients. The healing art of Naturopathy believes that body is self healing. It maintains that body will easily heal up and restore itself in a favorable and healthy environment.

As per the Naturopathic approach, our body is connected with a supernatural soul and mind. Therefore the integration and harmony of these three is very necessary to attain a healthy disposition. You will find its root in mysticism and metaphysical doctrine of Vitalize. Naturopathy not only supports the self healing system of our body, but also emphasizes on empowering individuals to change their lifestyles for a healthy living. It can cure both common and chronic ailments but mainly emphasizes on prevention of diseases and making the patient aware.

Homoepathy is a Proven Source for Natural Health

2010-12-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Homeopathy, a proven system of medicine for over 200 years, is practiced widely all over the earth. It works by stimulating the body's natural defenses instead of than suppressing symptoms. Natural remedies are used which are non-toxic and do not cause side effects. This medicine is empowering as it allows the body to self-correct.

Homeopathy is built upon a whole structure of laws, philosophy, theories and practice began by Dr. C.F.S. Hahnemann (1796). His philosophy states that the body is gifted with a dynamic, self-regulating capability, which he named the vital force. Continually striving for a state of optimal health or homeostasis is the main goal of this vital force. When the human body is compromised due to physical, emotional, mental or spiritual stress, the vital force tries to regain homeostasis.

Uninspired by the medical practices of his day (bloodletting, leeches, mercury), Hahnemann began striving for alternatives and became an advocate of natural healing techniques. Based on the principles of Hippocrates and Paracelsus, he developed the idea that cure could be achieved through the action of similars.

To test this hypothesis, he began to experiment on himself with the medicine cinchona, which was being used for treatment of malaria. To his surprise, this "cure" taken by a healthy person induced the exact same symptoms manifested by the person suffering from malaria. Hahnemann then created one of the cornerstones of Homeopathy, similima similibus curentur, Latin for "let likes cure likes". Simply stated: A substance that produces symptoms in a healthy person can cure a unwell person with those same symptoms.

Natural Cures for Acid Reflux AKA Heartburn

2010-11-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

Simple changes in your everyday habits can have a tremendous impact on natural heartburn relief. Understanding the cause of heartburn will allow you to understand how simple heartburn relief can be.

Heartburn No More! Cure acid reflux end your digestive problems and regain your natural inner balance ... Guaranteed! Before you select heartburn remedy you first need to find out what is causing this problem. Different causes need different remedies find out how to make sure to choose natural heartburn remedy right for you.

Acid reflux is a serious medical condition which if left untreated can lead to esophageal cancer. It can be treated with anti acids and diets or with natural cure for acid reflux. Natural remedies usually consists of several different methods like combination of proper diet and herbal products.

If you belch or have burning in your stomach or chest particularly when your stomach is empty you have either an infection a tumor or a condition called GERD. At least 24 different bacteria have been shown to cause stomach ulcers. All people with belching and burning in the stomach should be given the one-week course of antibiotics that is used to treat the most common cause of stomach ulcers called Helicobacter Pylori.

Natural Treatments for Breast Cancer

2010-11-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

Many women suffering from breast cancer are interested in learning more about natural treatment options. This type of treatment is often referred to in the medical field and Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) treatment, and there are actually a number of different types of treatment options that fall under this category.

Understanding CAM

CAM is any type of medical practice, system, or product that is not considered to be the standard form of care. There are three areas of natural breast cancer treatment that fall under this category: Complementary Medicine, Alternative Medicine, and Integrative Medicine.

Complementary medicines are those that are used along with standard medical treatments like chemotherapy and surgery. A common complementary treatment is acupuncture, which is used to help with the side effects associated with cancer treatment. Alternative medicine, on the other hand, is a natural treatment approach that is used instead of standard medical treatments. Special diets to treat cancer, for example, may be used rather than chemotherapy. Integrative medicine takes care of your mind, body, and spirit by combining standard medicine techniques with CAM techniques.

Natural Breast Cancer Treatment Techniques Involving the Mind and Body

There are a number of treatment techniques you can utilize to help ease the pain and assist in the treatment process. Some of these techniques include:

Biofeedback - using machines to learn how to affect certain bodily functions you are normally not aware of, such as your heart rate.

Meditation - focusing breathing or repeating words or phrases in order to calm your mind.

Yoga - using special stretches and poses with special attention given to your breathing.

Hypnosis - creating a state of relaxed and focused attention and concentrating on certain ideas, feelings, or suggestions to assist in the healing process.

Creative Outlets - special therapy such as dance, music, and art.

Imagery - imagining certain pictures, scenes, or experiences in order to help the body heal.

Does Fasting Work?

2010-10-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

Fasting is one of the widely used therapeutic procedures that help in complete detoxification of the body. The body will be purified due to fasting. The duration of the fast depends on the nature of disease, and amount and variety of drugs used and the important one is the age of the patient. Fasting must be done under the guidance of a natural therapist and correct mode of living and a balanced diet after the fasting for a week or so will make a person to get vitality and vigor and regeneration of tissues or the body.

Fasting is advised in stomach diseases, intestinal diseases, kidney diseases, lever diseases and skin diseases. It should not be done in diabetes, tuberculosis, extreme neaurasthenia. Fasting for a long time in these diseases will be not at all good.

The best and the most effective fasting is juice therapy. Fasting will make the body burn and excretes large quantity of accumulated wastes; elimination of inorganic acid and uric acid will be done. Fruit juices will promote strength in the heart muscle. So it is safe therapy. Vitamins, enzymes minerals and trace elements present in fruit juices and vegetables juices will be beneficial to body. Before or during the fasting enema is resorted to eliminate the morbid materials or toxins from the body. Fruit juices every two hours along with lukewarm water must be given for a week. The total fruit juice per day would be 5 to 10 glasses. The complete bed rest mental and physical is essential for the patient, as he will become week after expulsion and excretion of toxins from the body.

Help Cure Your Fatigue

2010-10-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Fatigue Symptoms

Fatigue symptoms can be accompanied by or manifest in a range of other physical and emotional complaints. These include:

* Constant tiredness or sleepiness
* Lack of energy
* Desire to sleep more
* Headaches
* Aching muscles or joints
* Muscle weakness
* Slower reflexes and responses rates
* Indecision and poor judgment
* Low mood, irritability or depression
* Changes in appetite
* Lowered immune system functioning
* Problems with short term memory
* Attention difficulties and poor concentration
* Poor motivation

Help for Fatigue

Fatigue will be treated according to the underlying cause. In some cases, simply adjusting your life-style to include appropriate dietary, exercise and sleep needs will be enough to combat fatigue. In other cases where medical causes are at play, treating the medical illness is the first plan of action.

Natural herbal and homeopathic remedies can be a great help when trying to combat fatigue. Certain herbs are known for their tonic effect on systemic functioning as well as their ability to increase strength and endurance, while energizing both mind and body.

Herbs such as Siberian Ginseng, Olea europea (extract of olive leaf) and Centella asiatica are commonly used to fight fatigue and boost energy without negative side effects - like those possible with pharmaceutical or dietary stimulants.

These herbal ingredients can be taken to naturally assist overall systemic functioning, help to balance all body systems naturally and are often taken by athletes, those recovering from illness or those that need the extra boost to help manage a busy life-style.

Fighting Fatigue

2010-10-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

What is Fatigue?

Fatigue is a symptom rather than a specific illness or disorder. While it is common to have the occasional day where you feel tired and less energetic than usual, people suffering with fatigue feel tired and lethargic all the time and seem to lack energy.

Affecting both body and mind, long periods of fatigue can seriously impair your daily functioning and make even the simplest of life’s responsibilities difficult to cope with. Both physical and mental fatigue are the first signs that the body is being damaged and placed under unhealthy stress.

While many cases of fatigue can be rectified by changes in nutrition, environment, stress levels or sleep patterns, it may also be a symptom of a more serious problem. Because it is such a common complaint, it is often overlooked and relatively few people seek medical advice or take the necessary steps to changing an unhealthy lifestyle.

If you have been suffering with chronic fatigue it is important to examine your life-style and take action. If your fatigue continues, a medical evaluation is recommended.

Is Fatigue a Serious Problem?

If fatigue becomes an ongoing problem it is important to address it. The first step is to take a look at life-style factors that may be contributing to your feelings of fatigue.

If however the fatigue continues or you feel that you don’t have the energy to address life-style problems, it is advisable to seek medical advice to rule out any serious conditions and explore treatment options.

It is especially important to call your general health practitioner if you present with other symptoms.

The Medical Application of Aromatherapy

2010-10-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

Really, the medical, therapeutic applications of essential oils (repeat: aroma-therapy!) are making huge advances in acceptance in the scientific community -- among the labs and scientists that do independent and educationally funded research. Important studies are released every month showing the strong efficacy of certain essential oils in treating serious bacterial infections. Try a Pub Med search on 'staphylococcus' and 'essential oil' or 'tea tree', or 'mrsa' and 'essential oil'. You'll find pages of results. The big test will be whether these result in protocols for medical use. The most important factor in this may be how much we all demand that natural 'alternatives' are available in the main-stream, as the profit-driven conventional medical system is just not designed to utilize very low cost natural treatments.

There's a huge body of data affirming the strong anti-tumorial effects of essential oils. Linalool has been shown to completely destroy certain liver cancers. Frankincense has other powerful anticancer action -- cellular toxicity that's specific to tumors! (One of the great challenges of chemotherapy is killing the cancer cells without killing the rest of the human). Lemongrass too has "promising anticancer activity". Search for yourself and you'll find more pages than you can get through any time soon.

While its easy to snub aromatherapy as New-Agey and soft, it's so much more helpful to really know the score. We're talking about medicines with huge curative potentials, and limited side effects. And they smell good -- how many medicines have THAT going for them? Now it the time to change the miss-perception of natural medicine in general, and the therapeutic use of essential oils in particular. Educate yourself on the valuable research being performed. Use the term 'aroma-medicine' instead. Clarify that aromatherapy is really the therapeutic use of medicinal plant extracts, and while some folks appreciate the smell, that's just the surface of the entire branch of this healing modality. A little noise from us can change the way the graciously uninformed think about the healing potential of these wonderful oils.

The Science Behind Aromatherapy

2010-10-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

The image problem of aromatherapy has everything to do with the prevailing idea that the practice is all about 'smelling things', whereas the science really about 'things that smell'. Smelling things is very subjective, and may have little medical effect at all (though we'll see that it MAY as well). Aromatherapy is defined as the complete practice of the branch of natural medicine using the volatile liquids distilled from plants. Authors of the hard-science aromatherapy texts available today, professionally-trained aromatherapists (one with a PhD in Chemistry) note that the future of aroma medicine is with the treatment of serious infectious illnesses and cancer treatment. You don't even have to smell them for them to work! Other effects of essential oils also being successfully investigated include speeding wound healing, reducing inflammation, and acting as analgesics.

You can read these research abstracts yourself by Googling 'Pub Med', and searching for 'essential oil' and things like 'cancer' or 'staphylococcus' or 'axiolytic'. You'll find a few studies too that were inconclusive, like inhalation of a certain oil did not change the immune system stress marker researchers use. But there's also another showing that EVERY OTHER marker of stress WAS changed. It may be the study chose the right oil, or the study population was better treated with the selected oil in some studies and not in others (one showed a stress reduction in women from lavender essential oil, but not in men). You'll find a full page of results showing a statistically significant effect on stress from lavender and linalool. Try other combinations of pharmaceutical preparations and see if there are more significant results than that!

Essential Oils for Medicine

2010-10-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

Searching for the term 'Aromatherapy' brings up several pages claiming aromatherapy is a fraud of some sort. That essential oil manufacturers and retailers are making 'dubious' claims of the efficacy of essential oils. These folks don't seem to have done their homework, or compared the validity of scientific inquiry to that produced by conventional medicine, which in fact could easily be claimed as 'dubious' using the same criteria. Ok, well actually there are no criteria used, just a few blurbs that present aromatherapy as a soft science, on that should be neglected along with everything else that's every been found under the heading of 'new age'.

How about we'll start be agreeing on this: That SOME of aromatherapy is in-fact a 'soft science'? That SOME people may feel more relaxed when inhaling Lavender, for example, and some will not? Aromatherapists will not disagree on this point -- they will however put up a defense when the medical applications of essential oils are thrown out with the soft side of 'aroma' therapy. Science IS BACKING UP many of aromatherapy's claims with valid data, even on the 'soft-science' of the practice.

Give Holistic Medicine a Try

2010-09-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

It is important to know what you're getting yourself into when you decide to purchase any form of medicine. Whether it is produced by a giant pharmaceutical manufacturer such as Merck or Pfizer, or obtained from your local Chinese herb shop, being in the know is what is best for you. In this day and age of the internet, lack of information is not an acceptable attitude.

If you take any medicine too often or for the wrong ailment, you could be putting your health in jeopardy; however, there are some natural medicines that are considerably less risky. It is a well known fact that a person should visit their doctor on a bi-yearly basis if they are taking a number of prescription medicines. The reason for this is that the normal doctor, busy as they are, does not generally take the time to review each medication you are taking at your timer of regular visit. Perhaps you are going in for treatment of the complaint of gout, for example, and your doctor treats you for this ailment at that time. But the doctor, usually distracted and in a hurry, does not review your current list of meds to determine that what he prescribes you for gout may interact with the medication that he has you on arthritis or rheumatism. It is the patient's responsibility to discuss these concerns with the doctor at time of visit.

Natural health medicine has been documented to have less or no side effects when compared to its chemical counterparts. That is because natural health medicine is generally made with products taken out of nature without being refined. They have generally been used for decades by different cultures, with little or no side effect. The medicine is made out of natural ingredients that will work in conjunction with the body, whereas their refined counterparts might have an adverse affect. One must also consider too that the compounds and inert substances used to bind prescription drugs may cause an interaction in the system. At the very least, the body cannot process naturally these agents.

How We See Alternative Medicine Today

2010-09-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

It is interesting to observe that more and more people are now accepting alternative medicine after having tried out traditional forms unsuccessfully. In fact, a recent survey concluded that as many as 36% of people in the United States relied on alternative medicine alone. But still, there are many doctors in the United States that are totally against using alternative medicine as a mode of treatment. Here again, the researches conclude otherwise! According to these researches, the alternative medicine does include different varieties of compounds in them and all of them have benefits associated with it. If at all you come across doctors that believe in these theories you will do well to contact someone else.

The major challenge confronting people who opt for alternative medicine is that they will not come across doctors with accredited degree pertaining to it. But there is also no denying the fact that most of the colleges across the United States these days are offering degrees in ayurveda, unani, homeopathy, naturopathy and acupuncture. The phenomenal increase in the demand for treatments related to alternative medicine is a very good indicator that this industry is indeed growing healthily. People no longer have to suffer with illnesses and pain as most of modern day pharmacy does not have magic to relieve them from it.

Fight the Flu...Naturally!

2010-09-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

More and more people today are looking for a natural flu treatment as an alternative to traditional flu medicine, especially in light of recently revealed dangers to some age groups from the over-the-counter preparations. While we may wish it, there is no natural cure for the flu, at least not today. Happily, there are several natural ways to treat the flu, should you come down with it.

A fever is the immune system's way of trying to kill off the virus by creating a hotter than normal environment. Fever also forces the proteins that kill germs to move faster through your blood, and makes them more effective at the same time. It is tough to endure, but will be worth the wait. Coughing is another sign that your immune system is trying to conquer the virus. By coughing, you are helping to clear the breathing passages and your lungs of the thick mucus that helps carry the virus throughout your body.

There is a natural flu treatment to help get rid of that congestion your body is already trying to fight off. When you use an over the counter flu medicine such, you are actually restricting the blood flow to vessels in your nose and throat, even though you really need more blood flow to warm that area and force the germs out. Instead, a natural remedy for congestion is to drink more water. When you are having breathing trouble, you need to keep hydrated, and the more you drink, the more the mucus will be affected. Once the mucus has taken in too much water, it can no longer hold its form, and it and the germs it carries will be forced out of the body through the nose.

Alternative vs. Traditional Medicine

2010-09-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of difference between Alternative medicine and traditional medicine. And it is important for each one of us to understand these differences at large. In a layman terminology, alternative medicine can also be referred to as non-western or unconventional medicine. This form of medicine, in fact, does not follow the methodology of traditional medicine and hence is unique in its own way. According to NLM, United States, the therapeutic practices falling under alternative medicine does not fall under alternative medical practices.

Therapies like dieting, acupuncture, and yoga fall under alternative medicine. When these therapies are used along side conventional treatments they are referred to as complementary. However, if these therapies are used in place of conventional treatments, they are called as alternative treatments. It was only in the year 1995 that the exact description and definition of complementary medicine and alternative medicine was coined. According to this definition, the complementary and alternative medicine can be termed as resources that include different aspects of health practices and systems and that is so different from prevailing health systems in the current culture or society.

Therapies like herbal medicine, ayurveda, homeopathy, folk medicine, diet practices, music therapy and others come under complementary or alternative medicine. People tend to rely on the medicinal forms when their attempt with allopathic medicine fails completely. If the efficacies of individual therapies that are included under alternative medicine are proved they will be included under tradition medicine. A classical example for this would be chiropractors. Not so long ago, it was discarded by insurance companies as ineffective and alternative form of treatment. But after it was proved to be an important and effective mode of treatment, it is now being considered as an integral part of treatment.

Prescription vs Alternative Medicine

2010-09-05T13:02:00.000-07:00

There are a large number of people who simply would like to avoid harsh chemical substances. For the people who do not feel very comfortable with these chemical products, there are numerous remedies in various disciplines of alternative medicine. These remedies are certainly not less effective if not more. They have other advantages as well!

First of all I would like to count their gentle action. That may appear to be a disadvantage to some people because gentle action may be inferred as slow, but gradual changes in the body systems are always better tolerated and have a more lasting effect. Then the natural remedies have a far less potential of side effects. There is either no side effect at all, or if there are any, they are also slow to appear and can hence be detected at an earlier stage without significant discomfort or damage.

Herbal and natural remedies in general, are a far cheaper option than the prescription medicine. They are simple to prepare and you hardly ever need the highly expensive professional supervision for their use. One may ask the very pertinent question then; "why the alternative
medicines are so much less in use". The answer is simple. The herbal and natural products have to be licensed by drug regulating authorities before marketing if they are to appear in the competitive market of medicine. That involves a lot of money. Humongous amounts need to be spent on pre-launch researches and the like. The industry of alternative medicine simply does not have that big money! Then there are no laws to grant patents for these products to assure the recovery of your investments.

Natural Medicine is In! Western Medicine is Out!

2010-09-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried a natural or herbal remedy to cure a condition or possibly for everyday usage? Some people think of herbal remedies are a ruse to lure people in and buy products. However now a days even medical doctors are realizing the benefits of natural herbal remedies. Herbs have been in use for over 5,000 years with several different cultures including Sumerian, Greek, Egyptian, Arabian, Roman, German, Swiss, and English.

The western culture has been using herbal medicine for thousands of years making herbalism one of the oldest forms of medicine. Additionally it is possibly one of the most widespread medicines with about 80% of the worlds population still using herbal medicine. Herbal medicine unlike conventional medicine is not only used for treatment of symptoms or conditions. Herbal medicine prevents diseases and illnesses, maintains proper daily body functioning and enhances mental attitude, appearance and performance. Herbal remedies can be used to help in areas such as digestion, respiratory, circulation, immune, endocrine, nervous system, detoxification, and externally for the skin, hair and nails. Herbal experimentation has been the basis for both Indian herbal medicine known as Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicine.

Chinese herbal medicine reflects Chinese belief that the universe is made up of energy called chi. Additionally human beings have an innate relationship with the world and environment surrounding them through chi; the human body is a small universe within itself made up of complex systems of energy and matter that works to maintain health of body and mind. Chinese herbal medicine is the primary therapeutic modality for internal medicine in China. This is used in conjunction with external modalities such as acupuncture, acupressure, massage, tai chi, meditation, dermabrasion and food therapy. With over 500 Chinese herbs, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) combines herbs to create specific formulas to fit the individual patient.

The Natural Cure for a Yeast Infection

2010-08-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

Yeast infections are nothing to laugh at, and it's no surprise that many are seeking a natural cure for yeast infection. The symptoms are at many times completely unbearable, as you will find out if you ever suffer from the problem. When the yeast infection is in a male, the problem is not quite as obvious; generally they will suffer from what is known as a leaky gut. The leaky gut generally leads to a large gut, and even fatigue. This is not fatal, but it can become irritating. In women however, it is an entirely different story.

You've probably heard many myths, stories, and promises regarding the extermination of your infection, but if you are here, then you probably have yet to find an actual cure that meets your expectations. Or in some cases you have yet to find one that actually works in the first place. If this is the case, then there are a number of ways you can obtain relief.

Some people will turn to the homeopathic remedies such as tea tree oil. This can be inserted into the vagina as a douche using droppers. Many have used this and they claim that it works perfectly for them.

Anti-Oxidants - Garlic, Onion, and Pepper

2010-08-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

Most of the spices and herbs used in our kitchen have anti-oxidant properties. You can practically see a lot of expensive herbal diet supplements that offer to get rid of nasty toxins out of your system in the market. You can get the same result out of your kitchen ingredients without having to dish out your savings on the herb supplements. The good part about it is that you don't have to worry about side-effects, allergies whatever you take in is 100% natural.

Kitchen spices like garlic, onions, pepper seeds and herbs like basil, rosemary are great anti-oxidants. You can include them in your daily meals or you can brew a healthy drink out of the fresh herbs. Wash them thoroughly with plenty of water and chop them before using. boil them up in hot water and let it simmer for a few minutes. Drain it with a strainer and you have an healthy anti-oxidant drink ready for your consumption.

Ginseng, a Valubale Natural Plant!

2010-08-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

Ginseng is a perennial herb which is widely used in herbal medicines. People from Asia and North America use it extensively for natural healing. It helps a person relax and relieve from any forms of stress. The usage of Ginseng root, a popular panacea for fast recovery of body from any illness is very well known. It provides strength, immunity to infection and increases stamina of the body.

It is well known for enhancing physical and mental strength with absolutely no side-effects. Ginseng can also lower cholesterol level of patients having high-blood pressure and can improve the body's natural resistance to common health problems. You can even use it in tea or store it in a bottle with water and leave it to age for a more potent brew.

Natural remedies are very effective in treating a large range of ailments through correct and regular usage. Whether it is boosting your immune system against bacteria and viruses, regulating blood pressure or cholesterol level, preventing hair loss, treating persistent acne or dandruff, treating aches, pains or cuts and burns, you will always find a natural remedy in "Mother Nature's" vast resources.

Natural Medicine is the Future

2010-08-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

There's an increasing trend that is occurring in today's society at the moment. More and more people are looking at alternative medicine and natural therapies as a means to heal both in physical and mental environments. There seems to be an increasing trend to shy away from normal medicine, from seeing a general practitioner for example. People seemingly prefer natural means to heal themselves. Seemingly running scared at the prospect of consuming pharmaceutical products to heal their ailments. Just like increasing numbers of people are seeking organic foods and the like to consume, shying away from food ridden with pesticides and the like.

There has been tremendous growth in the area of health and natural medicine over the past ten years. Insurance companies have started to pay rebates on therapies such as chiropractic, hypnosis, acupuncture and the like and this will continue to increase as more people choose natural medicines. There are also an increasing number of natural medicine practitioners taking the field, and this is evidence by the fact that more and more people are choosing health careers in the natural medicine field.

Why Alternative Medicine is the Answer

2010-08-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

Here are only some of the advantages of natural medicine:

The approach is holistic. While conventional medicine is organ-specific, natural medicine approaches each person as a unique individual and takes on a holistic view in the treatment of symptoms and illnesses, believing the body to have its own natural healing powers and energies. It also focuses on the prevention or treatment of the cause of disorders, and deals with much more than mere relief of symptoms.

Alternative medicine embraces natural remedies, therapies, and products. The health and beauty industry has grown to include not just cosmetics and bodybuilding solutions, but also other products and services promoting one's general well-being. This includes natural / alternative medicine products, nutritional vitamins, supplements, fresh herbs, and other natural herbal remedies. Botanic Choice, for example, is a leading source of fresh, all-natural products for various health concerns, including cholesterol health, weight loss, heart health, blood pressure, diabetes, and respiratory care, among many others.

It is time-tested and safe. Conventional Western medicine, lest you forget, is only less than a hundred years old, while each modality of natural medicine is an integrated system of safe, time-tested healthcare that is increasingly being validated by scientific research. It has a longer history of development than has conventional medicine, spanning centuries, and it has also made people take much more active roles in understanding their bodies and bodily functions better as well as applying techniques to make these healthier.

Natural Medicine for Insomnia

2010-08-02T15:46:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture

Traditional Chinese Medicine has been using acupuncture for decades for treating insomnia and other related diseases. This is done by using fine needles that are inserted into the skin at specific points that can influence blood flow and improve the functioning of the internal organs. There are scientific researches that back up the effectiveness of acupuncture in improving sleep quality among people with insomnia.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies for insomnia have been found to be just as effective as some of the anxiety drugs that are in the market. The root of the valerian plant is known to stimulate sleep, and has been found to have no side effects such as dizziness, which some sleeping pills cause. Other herbal remedies for insomnia include ginseng, passionflower, hops and green tea. These herbs are known to relax the body and the mind, which can improve sleep.

Meditation and Relaxation

Sleep usually does not come easy when you are feeling stressed out. By learning techniques of deep breathing and meditation, you can achieve a more relaxed body and mind, which can help you sleep better. Researches have shown that meditation and relaxation can lower your blood pressure and can also regulate your heart beat, which are all essential in achieving quality sleep.

Holistic Approach to Depression

2010-07-31T17:33:00.000-07:00

Millions of individuals suffer from clinical or symptomatic depression. If you are one of them, you can experience great benefit from some specific attention to their own health as well as guidance from a health professional who understands the basic tenets of natural medicine.

Natural medicine is consistent with the rhythms of nature and how nature is organized. Historically, there has been a commitment in medicine to do no harm, and when you are using natural substances such as herbs and working at a gradual pace, the likelihood of doing harm is almost completely eliminated.

Because depressions symptoms can be all over the board and sometimes quite contrary to each other, finding the right herbal medicine for treatment can be tricky. For instance, some symptoms for one may include chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, excessive sleep, loss of appetite, excessive appetite, headaches, backaches, joint aches, bowel disorders, as well as feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy.

The next person will complain of tension, stress, chronic headaches, chronic stomach aches, bowel problems, chronic nutritional deficiencies, chronic allergies, chronic physical disorder, poor diet, excessive sugar and caffeine intake, endocrine disorder such as hypothyroidism, endometriosis, lack of sun exposure, and assaults from the environment such as toxic metals.

Garlic as a Natural Medicine

2010-07-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

Garlic is one of the oldest known medicine from plants. Ancient Sanskrit documents describe garlic remedies being used in India 5,000 years ago. Chinese medicine has used the healing and beneficial health qualities of garlic for over 3,000 years. In 1858, Louis Pasteur praised the anti-bacterial properties of garlic. World War I surgeons used garlic juice to fight infections in wounds. Garlic was also used as an antibiotic during World War II. Garlic has been used as a spice for food for centuries because of it s ability to kill germs that cause food to spoil. Roman senator, naturalist and scholar, Pliney the Elder, recorded the beneficial effects of garlic on human health. In Marseilles, in 1722, garlic was the main medicine used to prevent and treat the plague. Dr. Albert Schweitzer used garlic as an antiseptic in his hospital. Garlic is actually licensed as a drug in Japan.

Garlic contains a sulphur compound called allicin. Allicin is what gives garlic it s taste and aroma and is thought to be the key ingredient that gives garlic it s natural health benefits.

Garlic kills 30 types of bacteria that are known to cause intestinal disorders and digestive problems. Garlic has been used for hundreds of years to treat dysentery. Garlic has been known to help kill intestinal worms and other parasites. Garlic also has antifungal properties to prevent and help treat intestinal disorders such as candida. Garlic s antifungal qualities has also been used to treat fungal and bacterial skin infections as well as infections of the lung, sinus, bladder, vagina, colds and flu.

An Alternative Medicine Truth

2010-07-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

There exist today many alternative medical treatments that fall under natural medicine. However, not all of them have been proven to be effective. You could mention homeopathy, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and other alternative medical treatments. It would pay to consult the experts as to the legitimacy of these treatments.

Natural medicine should also be thought of as an accompanying medicine. Right now, the current collective medical thought suggests that natural medicine be used only to supplement accepted modern medical practices. In that case of minor ailments your expert we actually advise you to take natural therapies instead.

The practice of modern medicine revolves around diagnosing an illness and prescribing treatments for such. Natural medicine is helpful because it suggests that treatment be not necessarily given only when sick. Natural medicine strives to make each patient practice good health habits. These habits include good diet, healthy living, and the regular natural treatment.

It is this same line of thought that leads our parents to tell us to eat our vegetables. Yes, a healthy lifestyle and will do no harm to our well-being. And this is the foundation of natural medicine; may it be massage, herbal medicine, aromatherapy or others.

It is funny but true that science, in its quest for excellence, is studying the knowledge of sages past. This, surprisingly, leads us back to the remedies nature offers. The possibilities of finding remedies to everyday illnesses in natural medicine are encouraging. So staying tuned to studying these remedies is worthwhile until we can verify that these therapies are truly helpful to our health and our society.

Natural Medicine: A Lost Art?

2010-07-14T17:28:00.000-07:00

Natural medicine can be considered as a lost art. This does not mean that it has lost efficacy over time. In some cases, natural therapy is actually better than modern medicine. This leads some doctors to seriously consider and study the possible uses of natural medicine

Before we continue, it is important to stress that not all the natural remedies are legitimate. It would help to only try those remedies which have been thoroughly studied and are relatively risk free.

Take herbal medicine for example. There are many well-documented and studied herbal remedies available. However, only those that deal with minor ailments such as cough, colds, fever, skin rashes, and the like are likely to be recommended by health professionals. These remedies are sometimes superior to synthetic medicine. This is because herbal medicines are less likely to cause negative side effects.

Currently there are numerous organizations that study the effects and advocacy of natural medicine among which is herbal medicine. Some governments and health agencies openly advocate the use of natural methods since they are inexpensive and relatively risk-free.

As their studies compile, more herbs and treatments are added to the list of accepted medicines. However, many herbs and treatments have been proven to be bogus medicine. This represents a challenge for both the user and the agencies because they have to ascertain that the treatments they either use or advocate are legitimate.

Think Past the Medicine Bottle

2010-07-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

When you get sick, you go to the doctor. And the doctor will, of course, prescribe medicines. You will go and buy medicines. You take them, and hopefully, you get well. This is how the health profession goes on nowadays, a cycle of diagnosis and prescription. If anyone were to give you herbs for medicine, you would probably say that that person was a quack.

But nowadays, studies are being conducted to see if there are really is any merit to what is called natural medicine.

Natural medicine is the use of natural methods, herbal medicines, and traditional practices to heal ailments. Every culture has a form of natural medicine. In ancient cultures, village medicine men served as the doctors of the community, passing on medical knowledge to the apprentices that followed them.

Many categories of the healing methods fall under natural medicine. Among these are traditional medicine, complementary medicine, and alternative medicine. Usually, natural medicine refers to medical practices that were in place before the advent of modern medicine. This includes herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, which is prevalent in Chinese, Ayurvedic(or Indian), and Greek medicine.

Upon the advent of modern medicine, many professionals discarded the use of herbs in favor of man-made medicine. The fact that these treatments are based on the healing properties of some herbs was forgotten.

For example, opium, digitalis, quinine, and aspirin all have their roots in traditional medicine.

Natural Medicine for a UTI

2010-07-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

A UTI is a very painful infection that a lot of women can get. This infection causes women to feel a very intense burning sensation as they urinate and also, constant pain in their lower abdomen throughout the entire day. If you are currently living with this infection, then you need some help and fast.

You are tired of living in constant pain and discomfort. You really want to have some relief so you can feel like yourself again and focus on the things that are more important in life. This infection consumes all of your thoughts and you don't know what to do about it anymore. You feel so trapped and it extremely frustrating. Luckily, there is help for you.

There is natural medicine for a UTI that can really help you to feel some relief. You don't have to spend all of that money at the doctor's and you can get rid of your infection in no time. A great way to get rid of your urinary tract infection at home with natural medicine is to drink cranberry juice. This juice is one of the best and most natural treatments you could ever use. There are ingredients in this juice that help to flush out the bacteria that are causing this infection to occur. Along with getting rid of the infection, the cranberry juice will help to ease some of the pain that has been plaguing your body for so long. Finally, you can get some relief and get on with your life.

Natural Solutions to Menopause

2010-06-10T16:56:00.000-07:00

Naturopathy treatment is considered as the most effective treatment for menopause. It assists people to regain their heath by following the right diet and lifestyle. Menopause, also known as climacteric, which means the cessation of menstruation during the reproductive life cycle of women. Usually this happens at the age of 50 but sometime it occurs prematurely in some women before 45 or artificially by the removal of ovaries. This onset of menopause might be slow or abrupt, the length of menstrual cycle increases, accompanied by decreased menstrual flow.

Therapy

In past, hormone swapping therapy has been used to treat these problems of women. Naturopathy, homeopathy, and contemporary medicines have distinct sorts of therapies and treatment ways for premature menopause. As these problems are more of lifestyle disorders, naturopathy treatment is found to be the very effective to treat this disorder.

Contemporary medicine recommends hormone swapping therapy as a remedy for this lifestyle disorder. Though, it is also found that women undergoing through hormone swapping therapy run an overall risk of uterine cancer 6 to 15 times better than non-estrogen users.

Turn to Naturopathy to Help With Obesity

2010-06-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

Naturopathy points its fingers to two habits as the cause of obesity – eating more than is required and lack of exercise.

Sedentary lifestyle coupled with binge eating is recipe for fat accumulation, weight gain and obesity. Stress and excess alcohol too can be reasons for obesity.

Obesity can lead to formation of many kinds of diseases. High blood pressure and heart diseases are the main diseases that an obese person needs to be cautious of. Isolation from society is another serious condition obese people have to face.

Obesity is classified into three types: mild to moderate, moderate to severe and severe based on the intensity of the problem.

The Naturopathic Way of Curing Obesity

Cold hip bath two times a day

Warm water enema

Fasting on liquid food for 3-4 days

Underwater massage

Friction baths

Neutral whirlpool

Steam and sauna bath

Warm water immersion

Lifestyle Modification

After completing fasting or natural treatment, the person must be disciplined enough to not to get addicted to over eating again. It is essential to maintain healthy nutrition, intake of large quantities of water, and staying away from high calorie food.

Naturopathy is the Science of Nature

2010-06-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

Nature has blessed us with many healthful gifts like water, air, sunlight etc. to stay healthy but as people cannot lead their lives in complete consonance with the law of nature, they are inevitably going to suffer from major or minor diseases. They can be restored to health by adopting various natural therapeutic measures like fasting, juice therapy, hydrotherapy, mud therapy, air bath, massage, etc. Naturopathy is simple, harmless and absolutely dependable, unlike most other system. This article will emphasize on naturopathy - the science of natural healing.

The aim of the naturopathy is to strengthen the natural resistance of the body to diseases, i.e., to activate the vital force, and to get rid of the poisons accumulated in the body. Naturopathy is a unique science with an unlimited potential to cure almost all diseases. With the exception of a few diseases which require surgical intervention, all diseases can be cured by naturopathy. Naturopathy not only eliminates the symptoms, but also exterminates the disease. It strikes at the very root of the diseases. It induces people to take an active interest in their health.

Fasting for short or long periods is used for quick elimination of toxins from the body. Hot and cold water is used in different ways (baths, packs, etc) to cure the diseases. The natural sunlight is also a good source of treatment.

Using Natural Medicine on Cold Sores

2010-06-04T20:06:00.000-07:00

A person can have a low immune system due to a cold or a bout of flu. A cold sore can appear after the onset of a heavy cold or flu. There is nothing worse then waking up in the morning with a tingling and swollen lip. It may be small but it feels like a mountain has erupted overnight.

Cold sores can burn, itch and attack. Having a stock of natural medicine in your cupboard at the ready is the best form of defence.This annoying blister has to go through the stages of burning, blistering then drying out. The drying out stage is the worse as it can take a while. Recognising the symptoms associated with a cold sore and taking natural remedies can keep a cold sore under control and in some case stop it from appearing. Cold sores remain in the body lying dormant until the immune system once again is low. Out of the four seasons the winter months are the worst for having a cold or flu which has a bad effect on the body.

Once you have a cold sore you should avoid using the same soap and hand towels that family members are likely to use. Due to cold sores being contagious it is best to avoid oral sex with your partner.

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Health Boosts from Natural Medicine

2010-06-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

If you feel uncomfortable while using drugs to cure simple health problems, there is another option for you. There are a number of natural alternatives to treat ailments. Alternative natural medicine treatment is gaining popularity, and if used correctly, can be quite beneficial for your health.

There are a lot of alternative herbal medicines available to cure common health problems. Such a herb is Passion flower that is quite effective in soothing the nervous system. It works as a strong relaxant and is used to treat anxiety, insomnia and tension. This herbal medicine has proven a boon to people who were previously dependent on sleeping pills and wanted to get rid of them. In some cases patients of hyperactivity, convulsions and hysteria are also given passion flower treatment. This herb is also effective in lowering high blood pressure.

There is another powerful antioxidant Co-Q10, which is quite beneficial for the cardiovascular system. When Co-Q10 is taken in combination with Hawthorne berry, it can provide anti-aging affects. It is also useful for Insomnia patients and helps improve the digestive system.

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Side-Effects of Taking Medicines

2010-06-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

A migraine can be triggered by food allergies, hormonal imbalances, stress, constant worry or chronic dehydration. Most people who suffer from migraines have been to their practitioner for help only to find that prescribed medication will not bring the relief they are looking for.

Sometimes taking medication to relieve pain can help for a limited time. However they can have an adverse effect by constricting the arteries in the brain which may cause vomiting or nausea.

Many of the over the counter products such as analgesics result in gastrointestinal problems. In other words the medication you are taking may not be entirely supporting your condition and may make you feel worse.

Hay fever is another annoying allergy that starts off with blocked up nasal passages and itchy eyes. It can be set off by the dander off a pet’s fur, house dust, perfume, cologne or cigarette smoke. Is natural medicine the key?

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Natural Medicine; The Right Choice

2010-05-16T16:27:00.000-07:00

Many categories of healing methods fall under natural medicine. Among these are traditional medicine, complementary medicine, and alternative medicine. Usually, natural medicine refers to medical practices that were in place before the advent of modern medicine. This would include herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, which is prevalent in Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic(or Indian), and Greek medicine.

With the advent of modern medicine, many professionals discarded the use of herbs in favor of man-made medicine. The fact that these treatments are based on the healing properties of some herbs was forgotten. For example, opium, digitalis, quinine, and aspirin all have their roots in traditional medicine.

Natural medicine is considered a lost art. This doesn't necessarily mean that it has lost efficacy over time. In some cases, natural therapy is actually better than modern medicine. This leads some doctors to seriously consider, and study, the possible uses of natural medicine.

Before I continue, it is important to stress that not all the natural remedies are legitimate. You would be well advised to only try those remedies which have been thoroughly studied and are relatively risk free.

There are many well-documented and studied herbal remedies available. However, only those that deal with minor ailments such as cough, colds, skin rashes, and its ilk are likely to be recommended by health professionals. These remedies are sometimes superior to synthetic medicine because herbal medicines are less likely to cause negative side effects.

What is Natural Medicine Exactly?

2010-05-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

When you get sick, you go to the doctor. The doctor will, of course, prescribe medicine, you will go and buy the medicines and then you take them, and hopefully, you get well. This is how the health profession operates nowadays a cycle of diagnosis and prescription.

Probably, if anyone were to suggest herbs to be used as medication, you would think that person was a quack and didn't know what they were talking about. But currently, studies are being conducted to see if there is actually any merit to what is called natural medicine.

Natural medicine is the use of natural methods, herbal medicines, and traditional practices to heal ailments. Every culture has a form of natural medicine. In ancient cultures, village medicine men served as the doctors of the community, passing on medical knowledge to the apprentices that followed them.

Natural Medicine to Boost Your Overall Health

2010-05-10T15:21:00.000-07:00

If you feel uncomfortable while using drugs to cure simple health problems, there is another option for you. There are a number of natural alternatives to treat ailments. Carlsbad Alternative natural medicine treatment is gaining popularity, and if used correctly, can be quite beneficial for your health.

There are a lot of herbal medicines available to cure common health problems. Such a herb is Passion flower that is quite effective in soothing the nervous system. It works as a strong relaxant and is used to treat anxiety, insomnia and tension. This herbal medicine has proven a boon to people who were previously dependent on sleeping pills and wanted to get rid of them. In some cases patients of hyperactivity, convulsions and hysteria are also given passion flower treatment. This herb is also effective in lowering high blood pressure.

There is another powerful antioxidant Co-Q10, which is quite beneficial for the cardiovascular system. When Co-Q10 is taken in combination with Hawthorne berry, it can provide anti-aging affects. It is also useful for Insomnia patients and helps improve the digestive system.

Wild lettuce is also a helpful supplement. Its relaxant properties soothe nerves and anxiety that helps in inducing a good night's sleep. It also cleanses the respiratory system by relieving cough. It can also be used to cure chronic pain, headaches or joint pains. Kava herb is used to treat pain of nerves, skin diseases, and also works as urinary antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.

Yoga is also emerging as a powerful alternative treatment for common ailments. It calms the nervous system and helps in maintaining balance between the body, mind, and spirit. It has been used to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve flexibility and concentration, sleep, indigestion etc.

Have You Heard of Sunlight Therapy?

2010-05-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

Some healthcare providers believe that sunlight therapy can be effective in helping relieve a number of health conditions. A matter of fact, a recent study compared 100 patients in Canada, who suffered from depression. The conclusion of the natural health research demonstrated that patients who received light treatment responded faster without adverse side effects opposed to those receiving antidepressant medication.

As a natural health medicine, sunlight therapy may well be on its way to proving what most of us already know -- sunshine generally makes us happier. Think back to a time when you were younger...wasn't it great to get out and play in the afternoon sun? And even as adults, we tend to soak up the rays with utter delight. The reason sunlight therapy may be as beneficial as it is for seasonal affected disorder (SAD; also seasonal depression) is primarily due to its ability to increase endorphins. These endorphins are what we call "happy hormones," which generally promote a feeling of well being. Chocolate works much in the same way - it, too, raises endorphin levels.

What other natural healing abilities does sunlight therapy offer? If you're like me, you enjoy the warm glow of the high-noon sun; but just 10 or 15 minutes per day can expose you to a rich source of Vitamin D. This particular nutrient is especially essential as it provides a critical role in maintaining our organ systems. Deficiency in Vitamin D can create a slew of health problems including Rickets, high blood pressure, cancer, and several other chronic diseases and disorders.

As a Carlsbad natural health preventative, sunlight's Vitamin D has been shown to prevent or even reverse coronary disease. Recent studies suggest that individuals exposed to sunlight had a lower concentration of blood cholesterol during the summer months than in winter months. As most of us are aware, lowering blood cholesterol is vital to maintaining and preserving heart health.

Why Do People Resist Natural Medicine?

2010-05-10T15:17:00.000-07:00

Laziness

In this quick-fix, instant-gratification society some people are too lazy and too spoiled to do the actual work required to be healthy. It's so much easier and so tempting to simply pop some pills hoping that that will somehow deliver health.

Drug Addiction

Between Coffee, Chocolate, Green Tea, Black Tea, Cola Drinks, Yerba Mate, Cigarettes and Alcohol, some people don't go a day without some sort of stimulant drug or alcohol. For the people already addicted to these legal drugs embracing prescription or over-the-counter drugs is the natural choice.

Racism

Carlsbad Herbal Medicine and most of the holistic health modalities whether it is yoga, acupuncture, tai-chi, qi-gong, meditation, etc. were developed by the non-White, Non-European peoples of this world. Some people hostile to natural medicine are simply hiding a racist attitude that if something isn't validated by a white man in a white labcoat then somehow it's isn't valid. I would much rather trust in the integrity of a Akan, Ibo, Mayan, Aborigine, Cree or Tibetian Bush Doctor/Traditional Healer than I would any scientist or drug company. Ironically the same scientists and drug companies that discredit the knowledge of the indigenous peoples of the world are the same ones dispatching ethnobotanists to every remote corner of the world to learn the secrets of Bush Doctors so they can patent them.

Sheep-ism

Some people are sheep and usually will only follow and seldom lead. They are not independent thinkers, and haven't spent the time and energy needed to challenge the information being spoon-fed to them by the corporate media and the scientific community. This society is very affluent and if you don't ask too many questions or make any trouble there are vast rewards available to you.

Unfortunately Carlsbad holistic health isn't one of them. For holistic health you need to listen to you body instead of authority figures. You need to connect to nature and to some sort of spiritual core. You need to be the leader of your own life.

Using Natural Medicine As a Cure

2010-05-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

Natural medicine dates back to ancient civilizations when people always turned to nature for natural therapies that helped their physical and emotional body obtain balance and order, relieve pain, improve health and treat illnesses. Since time immemorial, man has recognized that nature has countless elements just waiting to be discovered as helpful remedies in mans health maladies.

In fact, Hippocrates, considered to be the father of medicine, used countless botanical extracts and solutions available in nature to cure diseases as well as improve health and overall well being. Aside from herbal sources, natural medicine also uses therapies such as homeopathy, traditional Chinese and Oriental methods and other natural essences from the earth. They have been proven to be safe and have no side effects to say the least. Even modern medicine is slowly gaining interest in incorporating natural medicine with conventional medical practice.

One famous practice in natural medicine is aromatherapy where essences from plants such as flowers, leaves, seeds, twigs and bark are extracted to create essential oils whose scents are believed to help change moods, relax the mind and body, and treat certain ailments especially when coupled with other natural medications. Proofs that natural medicine is safe and that their efficacy is there is the fact that for centuries up to now, traditional Chinese and other Oriental methods of medicine are still widely practiced and some modern medical practitioners even in conventional medicine have adopted these methods. Of course the most common among natural remedies is the use of herbal plants.

Herbal medicine is common in almost all cultures around the world and its use dates back to thousands of years ago. Although plants and plant parts such as flowers, leaves, twigs and barks, are solely used, some cultures mix with these herbal extracts some animal or mineral products. The medicine may be in the form of tea, tablets, capsules, or any other forms of extracts.

Natural Medicine: A Trend

2010-04-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

Western medicine plays a significant role today. Their diagnostics and surgical procedures are world class and there are many doctors today tending towards recommending healthy alternative therapies Carlsbad. However, the tradition of prescribing medications that are heavily marketed by the multinational drug Corporations and the societal side effects have to be addressed.

These drugs have power over us. They corner us and make us feel small. We turn to the western model for help when we are trying to seek balance and their medicinal options make us become needy and weak. They do not arm us with the tools necessary to face this world and our role in it. All purpose is lost when all we are doing is surviving by synthetically detaching. There is a general belief when seeking this help that the antidepressants and painkillers prescribed are the doorway to doing the right thing for your life, ‘taking control’. Western pharmaceuticals are the Backdoor OUT of people’s lives and people are taking them because they want to feel better. How can you feel better when you have no control over yourself? When something external is dictating whether you will experience happiness today?

The next step down from legal drug users are those who choose to self medicate with illegal substances. The people who take these are frowned upon because it’s illegal. These substances can be more powerful and potentially more dangerous but ultimately are a solution to the same problem, our society is desperately unhappy! Our society has become segregated, disconnected and impatient with a constant undertone of incredible fear.

There is no sense of community any more. People believe that they have to ‘be strong’ and do it on their own. It’s because they are not doing it on their own, they are using external substances to support themselves: legal or illegal is not even relevant. Everyone just wants their problems fixed today and no one wants to have to fight for their own wellness Carlsbad and balance. If someone else fixes it, people don’t ever really have to own how they got there in the first place, and look at how much of it they created themselves.

The human qualities that have been lost in this system are connection, trust, kindness, patience, persistence and commitment. How can you develop connection with your doctor when the outcome of the appointment is you being handed something that helps you to avoid addressing anything (whilst creating another problem entirely)? How can we develop trust with our community when a major side effect of drug taking is paranoia, and to support ever growing habits, deceit must be used? How can we be kind to others when we are not being kind to ourselves? What will teach us patience when our society celebrates the quick fix? How will we develop persistence when the core of the ‘quick fix’ is to give up? Where in our lives will we demonstrate commitment when this system is about avoiding it?

Natural Medcine Working For You

2010-04-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

Airborne is an effervescent tablet that contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids. Following a powerful endorsement on the Oprah Winfrey show, sales of Airborne skyrocketed. Airborne was designed to prevent the common cold. So, it is not a treatment medicine San Diego. However, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that ingesting a bunch of vitamins and minerals can prevent the onset of cold symptoms.

The last, and perhaps most important, category of natural medicine products that we will discuss is homeopathic medicines San Diego. Homeopathy is probably the best system of natural medicine, hands down. Simply put, it is a system of medicine that treats disease with tiny amounts of natural substances that mimic the symptoms of the condition being treated. For example, a homeopathic remedy for treating the common cold may contain a diluted concentration of substances that if present in high quantities, would cause you to become congested and develop a sore throat. But, because the medicine contains a highly diluted amount of the substance, it does not actually make you sick; instead, it causes your immune system to activate so that your natural defense mechanisms will kick into high gear and fight off any cold viruses you might have in your body.

Homeopathic products, when formulated properly, do not produce side effects because the ingredients are so diluted within the mixture that no effects are produced from the substances themselves. The ingredients in these brands often have an X or a C after them to indicate how many dilutions were done for each ingredient. Also, treatment with these sorts of products has been demonstrated to actually prevent recurrences of certain diseases over the long-term. Some of the best manufacturers in this category include Boiron, a French manufacturer with annual revenues in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and Liddell, a small American company whose products are sold primarily in health food stores.

So, next time you stop by the pharmacy, take a closer look at the ingredients for the various natural medicines San Diego on the shelf. You should try to stay away from vitamin supplements. You might want to try some herbal remedies depending upon your condition, but the homeopathic products are probably the best way to go. Also, you should consult your physician or a pharmacist before buying any medicine that you have never tried before, even if it is sold over-the-counter.

Natural Medicine Works

2010-04-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

During my recent visit to a local pharmacy to buy some allergy medicine, I noticed a profound trend while looking at some of the over-the-counter (OTC) products. About half of all the products, on their packaging, were touting that they either contained natural ingredients or used some sort of alternative healing modality.

The use of herbs, vitamin supplements, and homeopathic medicine San Diego is growing because of the multitude of side effects associated with conventional care. For the purposes of this discussion, let us take a closer look at each of these different types of natural products
and some examples of products in each category.

Herbal medicine San Diego has been around longer than any other form of treatment. Ancient man used plants for almost everything, including food, shelter, and even clothing. So, they turned to their botanical resources for treating disease as well. Man developed herbal medicines by observing animals, and then through trial and error, they would assemble random concoctions of various plants until they found the remedy that worked best.

The most popular herbal remedies include echinacea, ginger, and ginkgo biloba. Echinacea is very adept at stimulating the immune system when the patient is suffering from an acute viral or bacterial infection. It is often found in cold remedies. Ginger has been demonstrated to reduce nausea and vomiting (and is used in most hangover cures). Ginkgo biloba helps combat various diseases of the circulatory system, and has also been shown to help treat people suffering from depression and even Alzheimers. Basically, there are a lot of herbs that do help treat certain conditions, but on the whole, herbal remedies do not seem to be as effective as conventional medicines and should only be used as a supplement to conventional treatment if the patient is severely ill.

The next category of natural remedies San Diego is the vitamin supplements. Between herbs, vitamins, and homeopathic products, vitamins are probably the least effective form of treatment when dealing with acute illnesses or serious medical conditions. The most popular vitamin supplement on the market today is Airborne, which is currently the number one selling OTC natural cold remedy in the United States.

Naturopathy and Obesity

2010-04-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

Naturopathy San Diego points its fingers to two habits as the cause of obesity – eating more than is required and lack of exercise.

Sedentary lifestyle coupled with binge eating is recipe for fat accumulation, overweight and obesity. Stress and excess alcohol too can be reasons for obesity.

Obesity can lead to formation of many kinds of diseases. High blood pressure and heart diseases are the main diseases that an obese person needs to be cautious of. Isolation from the society is other serious condition obese persons have to face.

Obesity is classified into three types viz. mild to moderate, moderate to severe and severe based on the intensity of the problem.

The Naturopathic San Diego Way of Curing Obesity

-Cold hip bath two times a day

-Warm water enema

-Fasting on liquid food for 3-4 days

-Underwater massage

-Friction baths

-Neutral whirlpool

-Steam and sauna bath

-Warm water immersion

-Lifestyle Modification

After completing fasting or treatment, the person must be disciplined enough to not to get addicted to over eating again. It is essential to maintain healthy nutrition, intake of large quantities of water, and staying away from high calorie food. A Daily minimum walk of 2 miles is also indicated. Practicing yoga and aerobic exercises also should be made part of your daily routines. Continue fasting once a week and identify carving for food. Different water therapy measures can be continued till you get desirable results of weight loss. The important thing is to stay away from undesirable habits like excessive smoking and alcohol consumption.

Naturopathy and Anxiety

2010-04-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

Naturopathy or naturopathic medicine San Diego consists of a system or method that employs no surgery or synthetic drugs. Naturopathic medicine includes such therapies as special diets, herbs, vitamins, massage, etc., to assist the natural healing process. Naturopathy, under the skillful and watchful care of a naturopathic physician, is all you may need for coping with anxiety.

Just follow the three tips in this article and you can overcome the unwanted anxiety in your life. You do not have to suffer anymore.

Tip #1 is Commitment: Make a commitment to yourself to pursue an alternative approach to drugs for coping with anxiety through naturopathic medicine San Diego. Make your commitment today to eliminate anxiety from your life for good.

If you truly commit to stopping the symptoms of anxiety panic attack, without any excuses, without the use of drugs, and with the guidance of a naturopathic physician, you will find yourself on a laser focused journey to healing. You do not have to live with the fear of anxiety panic attack anymore. Naturopathy is not new and has been successfully used throughout the world for centuries.

Tip #2 is to find a naturopathic physician licensed, trained and qualified to treat you.

It is absolutely essential that you find a naturopathic physician that you like and feel comfortable with and that is licensed to treat patients, just like an MD. A licensed naturopathic physician (N.D.) attends a four-year graduate level naturopathic medical school after completing a minimum of 3 years undergraduate pre-medical studies. A naturopathic physician is educated in all of the same basic sciences as a traditional allopathic medical doctor but also studies holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness.

Dr Veronica Hayduk says that it is important to distinguish licensed naturopathic physicians from non-licensed practitioners who have completed only short-term course work, mostly by correspondence. A naturopathic physician will humanly diagnose and treat your condition with dead on accuracy and safety. Naturopathic medicine for coping with anxiety will ensure maximum results for your healing without the serious side effects and addictions associated with anxiety drugs. You can start the ball rolling by getting your questions answered or finding a naturopathic physician for consultation using the following resources www.naturopathic.org or www.findnd.com .

Tip #3 is to persevere and be patient with your prescribed treatment and your naturopathic physician.

It is critical to persevere and be patient with the treatment you receive from your naturopathic physician. Naturopathy is far from being new. Natural medicine San Diego dates back thousands of years. You can be confident that a correct diagnosis and accurate treatment will be prescribed for your unique situation and condition. Naturopathic medicine is used very effectively to treat many illnesses and disorders including anxiety. Y

ou must have faith and confidence that you are receiving the best natural health remedies to treat your anxiety and that you will heal. Getting lazy, having doubts, or not following through with what is being recommended is just not an option for you since you have come this far. Follow through, be patient, persevere and have faith in the professional you have chosen to treat you. You will be very pleased and amazed at the results you will greatly benefit from.

If you are suffering from frequent anxiety panic attack symptoms, are not happy with the treatment you are currently receiving, or maybe you suspect you might have the symptoms of anxiety, but are not sure what to do about it, just follow these three steps. You will be on your way to coping with anxiety and eliminating those unwanted anxiety attack episodes for good.

Combining Science and Nature

2010-04-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

Naturopathy Carlsbad, which is also referred to as natural medicine or naturopathic medicine, is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on using the body’s natural abilities to heal itself in order to fend off illness and maintain its health. By following a holistic approach to body care, naturopathy involves taking certain natural steps to increase the body’s natural defenses while also supporting the use of conventional medicine methods to fend off illness.

The History of Naturopathy

The history of Naturopathy Carlsbad is long and interesting. Although many people have never heard of this form of alternative medicine, it has actually been in use since the 1880s. It was during this time that Dr. Thomas Allinson began advocating the medical practice in Scotland. Allinson promoted following a natural diet and performing regular exercise in order to improve the body’s health and to help cure illness and disease.

The concept of naturopathy didn’t reach the United States until the late 1890s. At this time, the term was used by Benedict Lust, who was also schooled in other forms of natural medicine such as hydrotherapy. Lust went on to found the American School of Naturopathy in 1905, which was opened in New York. The American School of Naturopathy was the first college of its kind to be opened in the United States, but the practice of naturopathy began losing followers in the 1930s when synthetic drugs and penicillin started to be used more regularly. The rise of other forms of alternative medicine, including herbalism and homeopathy, also contributed to the downfall of naturopathy.

Despite its setbacks, naturopathy Carlsbad continued to be practice by some alternative medicine practitioners. By 1956, a new school of naturopathy was opened in Portland, Oregon. The National College of Naturopathic Medicine, which integrated scientific methodologies along with naturopathic practices, was the first modern medical school to offer studies in naturopathy.

Natural Treatment of Osteopenia

2010-03-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

Several natural substances and alternative therapies have been studied for their effects on bone health. Here's a look at some key findings:

1) Tai Chi

In a 2007 study of 49 older adults with osteopenia or osteoporosis, scientists found that 18 weeks of training in tai chi (an ancient Chinese martial art that combines slow, graceful movements with meditation and deep breathing) helped improve balance and may reduce risk of falling.

A systematic review published the same year concluded that tai chi may be an effective, safe, and practical intervention for maintaining bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. However, the review's authors note that existing studies on tai chi's bone-protecting effects are limited in quantity and quality.

2) Green Tea

Consumption of green tea might improve bone mineral density by stimulating activity in bone-forming cells and inhibiting activity in bone-weakening cells, according to a report published in 2009.

3) Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is common among patients with osteopenia (as well as osteoporosis), suggests a 2006 study of 448 individuals. Vitamin D is essential for helping the body absorb calcium, a mineral key to forming and maintaining bone.

Exposure to the sun's UVB rays helps the body synthesize vitamin D. However, since UV exposure is known to increase your risk for skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends obtaining vitamin D from foods and supplements.

Better Bone Health

These strategies can also help preserve bone health:

•getting enough calcium (between 1000 to 1500 mg per day, depending on your age, dietary intake, and other health conditions)
•getting regular exercise, including weight-bearing exercise
•limiting caffeine intake
•avoiding smoking

What You Need to Know About Osteopenia

2010-03-15T20:00:00.000-07:00

Osteopenia is a condition marked by low bone mass. Although people with osteopenia have less dense bone than normal, the condition is not as severe as osteoporosis. However, people with osteopenia are at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis if their condition is left untreated.
An estimated 18 million people in the U.S. have osteopenia.

Risk Factors for Osteopenia

Because aging-related processes deplete bone of minerals and mass, your risk for osteopenia (as well as osteoporosis) is likely to increase as you get older.

In addition, women are more prone to osteopenia and osteoporosis than men, due to their naturally lower bone mineral density and certain bone-affecting hormonal changes that occur during menopause.

Other factors that may raise your risk for osteopenia include:

•eating disorders or other issues that prevent the body from absorbing a sufficient amount of minerals and vitamins
•exposure to radiation therapy or chemotherapy
•a family history of osteoporosis
•excessive consumption of alcohol
•use of certain medications, such as steroids

Benefits of Kudzu

2010-03-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) is a climbing vine that belongs to the pea family. Its flowers and starchy white roots have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Uses for Kudzu

In herbal medicine, kudzu is typically used to treat the following:

•alcoholism
•menopausal symptoms
•diabetes
•the common cold
•fever

Benefits of Kudzu

Kudzu contains isoflavones, estrogen-like compounds thought to offer various health benefits. Here's a look at the science behind kudzu's health effects:

1) Kudzu for Postmenopausal Women

For a study published in 2003, researchers assigned 127 postmenopausal women (aged 50 to 65 years) to receive hormone replacement therapy, kudzu supplements (delivering 100 mg of isoflavone daily), or no treatment for three months. While only participants in the HRT group had a reduction in cholesterol levels, HRT- and kudzu-receiving study members both showed improvements in cognitive function and attention span.

A more recent study, published in 2007, found taking kudzu extract in capsule form daily for 24 weeks helped alleviate vaginal dryness in postmenopausal women.

2) Kudzu and Alcohol Intake

Kudzu extract may be helpful in reducing alcohol intake, according to a 2005 study. Using a real-life setting (an apartment with a television, reclining chair, and refrigerator stocked with beer), researchers performed an experiment involving heavy drinkers. They found that those who took kudzu capsules for seven days prior to the experiment drank an average of 1.8 beers in 90 minutes (compared to the average of 3.5 beers consumed by those who took a placebo prior to the study).

Hot Cayenne Pepper

2010-03-09T22:37:00.000-08:00

Another excellent herb to include as part of your daily dietary regime is cayenne pepper.

One of the foremost compounds in cayenne is capsaicin, which gives the herb its “hotness” and spiciness. Somewhat ironically, this substance actually gives cayenne the soothing effect it has on one’s digestive tract. Digestive tract ailments such as stomach cramps and acid reflux could thus benefit from the use of cayenne.

Cayenne’s most potent healthful property is its ability to stimulate circulation. It raises body temperature and improves blood circulation; if you have ever taken cayenne pepper and felt your face flush, you would know all about this. In this regard, cayenne benefits various circulatory conditions, and also gives heart and overall cardiovascular health a boost.

Further, cayenne has the effect of improving the fast and even distribution of nutrients which are consumed; for this reason, cayenne is included as part of many herbal formulas, to improve the effectiveness of other herbs which are used. Indeed, whatever natural health remedies you are using, cayenne can be very helpful.

Cayenne also helps to regulate your blood pressure, provide relief from inflammatory joint conditions, lessen pain and itching, tackle infections, improve digestion, relieve constipation as well as alleviate sore throats.

In addition, cayenne is able to stop bleeding quickly and effectively, and this applies to both internal and external bleeding. Because of this and the other properties of cayenne, this herb has been used for numerous emergency type situations, including fainting, shocks, bleeding, and even strokes and heart attacks.

Ground cayenne, in powder form, can be added to meals or mixed with warm water and consumed as a tea. Generally speaking, the hotter the peppers, the more powerful their health properties will be. Cayenne which is rated at about 200,000 heat units can be considered very strong. Liquid extracts can also be used, although those are more commonly used in emergency situations. Even if you do not consume cayenne regularly, this herb is very useful to have in your herbal cabinet.

Almost like garlic, cayenne has quite literally too many health benefits to mention in a short article. And, also like garlic, cayenne is a potent herb, and your body might thus take some time to adjust to it. As always, it is a good idea to start with a small dosage and slowly work your way up. One possible starting dosage is 1/8 teaspoon of powered cayenne per day, with the final target a daily dose of 3 teaspoons.

More Detox Herbs in the Kitchen

2010-03-09T22:36:00.000-08:00

Herbs for Mercury Detox
Meanwhile, you can use garlic and MSM [methylsulfonylmethane], a natural form of organic sulfur — an essential nutrient available in capsule/pill form — to remove the toxic effects of mercury.

Garlic and MSM are both rich in sulfur — sulfur, as you know, is a good anti-mercury agent. It is always good to use garlic in food. Garlic improves the body’s sulfur reserves.

Clove is another good chelating agent; try to eat 2-3 cloves everyday.

You may also introduce cilantro [a member of the carrot family, and also referred to as Chinese parsley and coriander] to your diet.

Cilantro helps “muster” mercury, and other toxins, and flushes them out of the body through excretion.

Cilantro, or coriander, is available in most grocery stores.

Also, you may take a multi-purpose vitamin supplement — especially, vitamins C and E — on a daily basis — to improve the chelation process. However, make sure your capsule contains all the essential minerals.

Your Detox Shopping List
In summary, besides incorporating MSM and a multi-purpose vitamin that includes C & E seek out recipes that incorporate Cilantro, Clove, Garlic, Coriander, Turmeric and add a super green food like Chlorella or algae to your diet; Add chlorophyll rich foods, and include some fiber like psyllium which is best to take before retiring.

These simple additions to your lifestyle will help you maintain a healthier body system.

When browsing through an Indian cookbook many great meals also incorporate these simple detox herbs. You’ll enjoy the food and spices, while supporting giving your body system a boost.

Detox Herbs in the Kitchen

2010-03-09T22:30:00.000-08:00

Herbal “Plumbers” for Wellness
We all tend to accumulate a great deal of toxins and other wastes, including pollutants, in our body.

In the long run this does our body no good — the built up toxins only cause health problems including clogging in the arteries.

Here’s help from your kitchen — to cleanse your body of toxins and promote a healthier you.

Chelation Body Cleansing and Detoxing
The process of cleansing we are talking about is called chelation. To chele — a Greek term — means “to claw.”

You could think of the chelation process as something we often do to clear our drainage system.

When a drain is clogged, we add a chemical. The substance dissolves the blockage. Soon after, the resulting compound is also removed from the drain through the plumbing system.

The chelation process works in the same manner in our body. But, don’t be alarmed — chelation is safe and its good effects are immense.

Do you know there are a handful of easy-to-do chelation programs that you can do at home to catch the free radical phantom by its neck? Free radicals are a major cause of the disease process, including heart problems, diabetes, and cancer.

Natural Herbs for Detoxing the Body
Your first objective is to improve your elimination to aid the release of toxic elements. You can do that with simple foods, such as the chlorella shown above.

•Sustain at least two bowel movements per day. If you find this difficult, you may add psyllium, or isapgol [from the genus, plantago] to your diet plan. Take a tablespoon of isapgol in a glass of water, last thing before going to bed.

•You may also use chlorella to remove toxic metals from the connective tissues, likewise.
Chlorella is an algae with protein and high levels of chlorophyll. It is one of the purest, most potent forms of food on Earth. Only thing is — it may not be tolerated by some people.

Natural Treatment for Glaucoma

2010-02-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

What is Glaucoma?

A leading cause of blindness in the United States, glaucoma causes damage to the eye's optic nerve (a bundle of fibers responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain).

There are several types of glaucoma. The two most common are primary open-angle glaucoma and acute angle-closure glaucoma.

What Causes Glaucoma?
Glaucoma typically occurs when fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly builds up and impairs the optic nerve.

In primary open-angle glaucoma, fluid drains from the eye too slowly, resulting in painless damage to the optic nerve and a very gradual loss of vision.

In acute angle-closure glaucoma, the iris partially blocks fluid drainage at the angle where the cornea and iris meet, causing an abrupt increase in eye pressure.

The following may increase your risk of glaucoma:

•Being over age 60
•Having a family history of glaucoma
•Diabetes
•High blood pressure
•Eye injuries
•Nearsightedness
African-Americans and Mexican-Americans are more likely to develop glaucoma than Caucasians.

Glaucoma Symptoms
Although primary open-angle glaucoma often has no symptoms, it leads to a very gradual loss of peripheral vision and - in advanced stages - tunnel vision.

Considered a medical emergency, acute angle-closure glaucoma causes sudden, severe eye pain that may be accompanied by the following:

•Reddening of the eye
•Stomach upset (including nausea and vomiting)
•Sudden visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or the presence of halos around lights

Treatment for Glaucoma
If you experience symptoms of acute angle-closure glaucoma, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include the use of medication and/or a laser procedure that promotes drainage of fluid from the eye.

Undergoing an eye exam every two years can increase your chances of detecting glaucoma in its early stages, delaying progression of the disease, and preserving your vision.

Standard treatments for glaucoma include eyedrops, oral medication, fluid-draining laser procedures, and conventional surgery that creates a new opening for fluid to leave the eye.

Alternative Treatment for Glaucoma

If not properly treated, glaucoma can result in total blindness. While alternative medicine alone can't treat glaucoma, certain remedies and therapies may help manage the disease. Consider talking with your eye doctor about using the following to help prevent or control glaucoma:

1) Ginkgo Biloba

This herb may boost blood flow to the optic nerve and, in turn, have a beneficial effect on glaucoma, according to a research review published in 2001. However, the review authors note that ginkgo biloba was not found to have a direct effect on eye pressure.

2) Vitamin C

Vitamin C - an antioxidant available in supplement form and also abundant in citrus, berries, tomatoes, and other fruits and vegetables - may help reduce eye pressure and benefit people with glaucoma, a 2001 study suggests.

3) Mind-Body Stress Management

Since stress is a risk factor for acute angle-closure glaucoma, including a stress-reducing practice such as tai chi, yoga, or meditation in your self-care may help protect your vision.

Hawthorn for Heart Health

2010-02-12T20:49:00.000-08:00

A tree native to Europe, North America, and northern Asia, hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) produces berries that contain potent antioxidants. Extracts of the berries (as well as hawthorn leaves and flowers) have long been used in herbal medicine. In the United States, hawthorn products are typically marketed for their effects on heart health.

Uses for Hawthorn
Hawthorn is purported to help treat the following health problems:

•indigestion
•angina
•atherosclerosis
•congestive heart failure
•high blood pressure
Benefits of Hawthorn
The antioxidants in hawthorn are thought to boost heart health by strengthening blood vessels and stimulating blood flow.

Although hawthorn's health effects have yet to be extensively studied in the United States, research suggests that hawthorn extracts may be useful in the treatment and/or prevention of these cardiovascular problems:

1) Chronic Heart Failure

Hawthorn may help manage symptoms and improve physiologic outcomes when used as a supporting treatment for chronic heart failure, according to a 2008 research review of 14 studies (including a total of 855 chronic heart failure patients). The review's findings indicate that treatment with hawthorn may lead to improvement in exercise tolerance and in symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

2) High Blood Pressure

In a pilot study published in 2002, 38 mildly hypertensive volunteers were assigned to a daily supplement of 600 mg of magnesium, 500 mg of hawthorn extract, a combination of magnesium and hawthorn, or a placebo. After 10 weeks, the 19 subjects who took hawthorn extract showed a greater reduction in resting diastolic blood pressure than other study members. What's more, hawthorn-taking participants were found to have lower levels of anxiety.

In a more recent study, published in 2006, scientists discovered that hawthorn helped lower blood pressure among individuals taking prescription drugs to treat their type 2 diabetes.

3) Atherosclerosis

An animal study published in 2009 suggests that hawthorn may help reduce levels of blood fats (including cholesterol) and aid in the prevention of atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries).

Should You Take Hawthorn?
Given the extremely serious nature of heart disease, it's crucial not to attempt to self-treat a heart condition with hawthorn (or any other herbal remedy). Make sure to consult your physician if you're considering the use of hawthorn in treatment of a heart problem.

Umka for Colds

2010-02-12T20:39:00.000-08:00

Umcka (Pelargonium sidoides) is a geranium plant native to South Africa. Long used in traditional African medicine, umcka (short for "umckaloabo") has recently become popular in other parts of the world, particularly in treatment of respiratory problems.

Uses for Umcka
Umcka is typically used to treat these respiratory issues:

•the common cold
•sore throat
•bronchitis
•sinusitis

Benefits of Umcka
To date, few studies have explored umcka's efficacy in treatment of health problems. Existing research suggests that umcka may help manage the following conditions:

1) Rhinosinusitis

For a study published in 2009, researchers assigned 103 people with acute rhinosinusitis to take either an extract of umcka root or a placebo for a maximum of 22 days. (Usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, acute rhinosinusitis is marked by inflammation of the mucosa of the nasal passages and at least one of the paranasal sinuses.) Study results showed that umcka was more effective than placebo in treatment of the condition.

In a research review published the previous year, scientists concluded that doubt exists as to whether umcka is effective in alleviating symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis.

2) Bronchitis

Umcka appears to be more effective than placebo for patients with acute bronchitis, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2008. Researchers sized up four placebo-controlled clinical trials, finding that umcka significantly reduced bronchitis symptoms by day 7 of treatment.

3) The Common Cold

A 2007 study indicates that umcka may decrease the severity of cold symptoms and shorten the cold's duration. Focusing on 103 adults with cold symptoms, researchers found that 78.8 percent of those who took umcka were clinically cured after 10 days (compared to 31.4 percent assigned to a placebo).

How to Use Umcka
Available in syrup, liquid extract, and capsule form, umcka can be found in most health food stories and pharmacies that carry herbal products.

Umcka has been found to produce few adverse effects, but may trigger allergic reactions of gastrointestinal upset in some cases.

The Benefits of Cranberry

2010-02-04T10:07:00.000-08:00

Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) are the fruit of a plant native to North America. Often consumed whole, cranberries are also available in juice or supplement form.

Uses for Cranberry
The most common medicinal use of cranberry is to treat urinary tract infections. Cranberry is also used to manage or prevent the following:

•Gum disease
•Diarrhea
•Diabetes
•Stomach problems
•Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries

Benefits of Cranberry
Although research on cranberry's health effects is limited, studies suggest that cranberry products may help treat the following:

1) Urinary Tract Infections

A number of studies have shown that regularly drinking cranberry juice (or taking cranberry supplements) may help prevent urinary tract infections. Research indicates that substances found in cranberry may prevent bacteria from clinging to cells along the walls of the urinary tract and causing infection.

If you think you have a urinary tract infection, contact your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Infections should not be self-treated with cranberry products.

2) Peptic Ulcer Disease

A small study published in 2005 suggests that regularly drinking cranberry juice may prevent Helicobacter pylori infection, a major cause of peptic ulcers (a sore on the lining of the stomach or duodenum, the beginning of the small intestine). Infection with H. pylori (a type of bacteria) is also linked to the development of gastric cancer.

3) Gum Disease

Cranberry may help gum disease by preventing bacteria from sticking to teeth, according to a 2004 study. To help reduce your risk of gum disease (a condition that may be linked to heart disease), drink about four ounces a day of a cranberry juice that does not contain added sugar.

Natural Ways to Cure an Enlarged Prostate

2010-02-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

A male reproductive gland surrounding the urethra, the prostate is responsible for producing semen. Enlargement of the prostate gland (often referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) occurs in many men as they get older.

Although it can lead to some complications involving the bladder, an enlarged prostate won't increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate
When tissues in the prostate enlarge, they may apply pressure to the urethra and partially block urine flow. This may trigger the following symptoms:

•difficulty starting urination
•weak urine stream
•inability to urinate
•dribbling at the end of urination
•incomplete emptying of the bladder
•incontinence
•frequent urination at nighttime
•pain with urination
Less than half of men with BPH show symptoms.

Treatment for Enlarged Prostate
Some men experience BPH-related complications such as bladder stones, bladder damage, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage. In these cases, doctors may pursue treatment with medication, surgery, and non-surgical therapies.

In other cases, however, self-care should suffice in treatment of BPH.

Home Remedies for Enlarged Prostate
Your doctor may suggest using the following self-care strategies to manage your BPH symptoms:

•urinating as soon as you get the urge
•avoiding alcohol and caffeine, especially at night
•avoiding drinking fluids within two hours of bedtime
•getting regular exercise
•decreasing your stress with the help of practices like yoga and meditation

You may also need to limit your use of over-the-counter cold and sinus medications containing decongestants or antihistamines, both of which may aggravate your symptoms. Certain natural remedies for cold and sinus problems may help reduce your need for such medications.

Evening Primrose Oil

2010-02-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

Evening primrose oil is sourced from Oenothera biennis, a plant native to North America. It contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid required by the body for growth and development.

Uses for Evening Primrose Oil
In herbal medicine, evening primrose oil is typically used to treat these health problems:

•eczema
•rheumatoid arthritis
•premenstrual syndrome
•menopausal symptoms
•diabetes

Benefits of Evening Primrose Oil
Research suggests that evening primrose oil may be of little value in the management of premenstrual syndrome or menopausal symptoms. However, other studies indicate that evening primrose oil may help with the following conditions:

1) Eczema

Evening primrose oil may help relieve the itching, crusting, redness, and swelling associated with atopic eczema, according to a meta-analysis published in 2006. Fatty acids are thought to play a role in these beneficial effects.

2) Rheumatoid Arthritis

To date, there's little research on the effectiveness of evening primrose oil in treating rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory condition that causes pain and swelling of the joints). However, a report published in 2001 suggests that evening primrose oil may have indirect anti-inflammatory actions and may help manage this autoimmune disease.

3) Breast Cancer

Preliminary research suggests that GLA may help destroy tumors without inducing damage to normal cells or causing harmful side effects. And in a small study published in 2000, researchers found that participants who took GLA supplements in addition to the breast cancer drug tamoxifen responded more quickly to breast cancer treatment than those who took tamoxifen alone.

Natural Cough Relief

2010-01-03T19:52:00.000-08:00

In many cases, coughing occurs as a symptom of a short-term illness, such as the common cold, bronchitis, or the flu.

Chronic coughs, on the other hand, may be caused by one of the following conditions:

•asthma
•allergies
•chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
•gastroesophageal reflux disease
Chronic cough may also result from smoking or from use of some medications.

If your cough lasts longer than two to three weeks, consult your physician to check for an underlying health problem.

Natural Cough Remedies:

Although they won't cure the condition causing your cough, the following may provide natural cough relief:

1) Honey

In a 2009 study, researchers found that honey may decrease the frequency and severity of cough more effectively than the over-the-counter cough-suppressing drug dextromethorphan. Try adding honey to tea, or taking a spoonful on its own.

2) Marshmallow

Compounds extracted from marshmallow (an herb said to soothe irritated tissue) may provide significant cough-suppressing benefits, according to an animal study published in 2007. Marshmallow can be taken in tea form.

3) Mullein

Available in lozenge, powder, and supplement form, mullein is a common weed that contains compounds said to act as demulcents (substances that relieve irritation or inflammation in the throat) and expectorants (agents for loosening mucus and making it easier to cough up). Although mullein hasn't been specifically studied for its effects on cough, it has long been used to treat coughs in herbal medicine.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for natural ways to relieve a cough! Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for your naturopathy needs!

Nettle for Allergies

2010-01-03T19:47:00.000-08:00

Also known as "stinging nettle" or "nettles," nettle (Urtica dioica) is an herbal remedy derived from the leaves or root of the stinging nettle bush

In herbal medicine, nettle has long been used to treat a number of health problems, including:

•muscle pain
•joint pain
•eczema
•arthritis
•gout
•anemia
•hay fever
•urinary tract infections
•tendonitis
•insect bites

Although research on nettle's health effects is limited, studies suggest that the herb may show promise in treatment of the following conditions:

1) Enlarged Prostate

A research review published in 2007 indicates that nettle may help relieve complaints associated with enlargement of the prostate gland (a condition also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia). However, the review authors note that more studies need to confirm the herb's beneficial effects before nettle can be recommended as a treatment option for men with enlarged prostate.

2) Allergies

A number of studies show that nettle may help manage allergies and ease symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching. In one study published in 2009, scientists discovered that nettle may help treat allergies by reducing inflammation.

3) Osteoarthritis

A small study (published in 2000) found that topically applied nettle may help ease osteoarthritis pain.

Vitalia Natural Medicine can help you discover the benefits and side-effect of using nettle! Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for all your naturopathy needs!

Yoga and Cancer

2010-01-03T19:43:00.000-08:00

Yoga is a mind-body exercise that originated in India more than 4,000 years ago. A fundamental component of ayurveda (the traditional medicine system of India), yoga combines precise postures, deep breathing, and meditation in order to promote physical and emotional health.

Yoga For People With Cancer

Studies suggest that yoga may offer many benefits for people coping with cancer. Here's a look at some key findings.

1) Relieving Anxiety

Yoga may help ease anxiety in breast cancer outpatients, according to a 2009 study of 98 outpatients assigned to receive either yoga training or a brief therapy session prior to undergoing surgery. The study also showed that daily yoga sessions helped manage treatment-related side effects.

2) Reducing Stress

Breast cancer outpatients who practice yoga may have lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression than those who don't practice yoga, according to a study published in 2009.

3) Improving Quality of Life

In a pilot study published in 2006, researchers found that a seven-week yoga program significantly improved quality of life for cancer survivors. The researchers also observed a significant improvement in emotional function among the study's 20 yoga-practicing participants.

4) Enhancing Sleep Quality

A 2004 study of 39 lymphoma patients indicates that weekly yoga sessions may help reduce sleep disturbance, improve sleep quality, lengthen sleep duration, and reduce the use of sleep medications.

Vitalia Natural Medicine has all the resources you will need to get involved in yoga to help relieve symptoms of cancer! Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for all your naturopathy needs!

Does Naturopathy have a Place in Integrated Medicine

2009-12-17T22:02:00.000-08:00

In the Integrated Medicine column this month Dr Wolf looks at Naturopathy and what role it might have in the integration of complementary and conventional medicine.

Naturopathy is a system of medicine that aims to maintain health by supporting and stimulating the vis medicatrix naturae (the healing power of nature). Rather than being a specific therapy, naturopathy is an holistic approach that stresses the importance of plain nutritious food, fresh air, sunlight and exercise.

Naturopathy is a holistic philosophy, and naturopaths use a variety of treatments including: dietary advice, nutritional supplements, detoxification methods, bodywork (such as massage or osteopathy), hydrotherapy, herbs, homoeopathic remedies, acupuncture, counselling and lifestyle advice. Naturopaths will always tailor the treatments to meet the individual needs of the patient.

In the early part of the century naturopaths were often considered to be quacks; however, many of their ideas particularly, those on diet and exercise, have come to be accepted by conventional medicine.

In the integrated practice of medicine the naturopath has a role in providing alternative treatment, especially for chronic illness, but he or she also has a role as a catalyst in strengthening a holistic and team-based approach to treatment.

Naturopathy relies strongly on educating the patient to better health and it has an educational role in helping health care professional explore other methods of treatment and a holistic approach.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for all your naturopathy needs in San Diego. Dr. Wolf has the background and experience to help heal you the natural way. Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for all your naturopathy needs!

What to expect when you visit a Naturopathy Doctor

2009-12-17T21:58:00.000-08:00

A visit to a naturopathic doctor, or N.D., will be similar to a visit to your family doctor. Your first visit may take more than an hour. During this time, a very thorough history is taken, including questions about diet, lifestyle, stress, and environmental exposures. Next, the N.D. will perform an appropriate physical examination, which may require laboratory tests. In addition to conventional tests, N.D.s may use unique laboratory techniques such as the Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA). This technique allows naturopaths to assess the digestive process as well as specific nutrient absorption, amongst other things.

Naturopathic doctors treat the whole person, which means they consider a variety of factors before they diagnose and treat an illness. Factors an N.D. might consider in making a diagnosis include your mental, emotional, and spiritual state, your diet, your family history (whether or not your parents or grandparents suffer [or suffered] from the same condition), your environment, and your lifestyle.

Some of the more common treatments used by a naturopath include:

•Nutritional counseling

•Herbal medicine

•Homeopathic medicine

•Acupuncture

•Hydrotherapy (water therapy) -- Therapies in this category include drinking natural spring water, taking baths, alternating hot and cold applications, and exercising in water, all of which are thought to stimulate and support healing and strengthen the immune system.

•Physical Medicine -- This natural approach to healing involves using touch, hot and cold compresses, electric currents, and sound waves to manipulate the muscles, bones, and spine.

•Detoxification -- This therapy removes toxins from the body by using techniques such as fasting, enemas, and drinking water in large amounts.

•Spirituality -- Personal spiritual development is encouraged as an important part of an overall health program.

•Lifestyle and Psychological Counseling -- An N.D. may use hypnosis, guided imagery, or other counseling methods as part of a treatment plan.

Naturopaths consider patients to be participants in their health care, so you may be asked to make lifestyle changes (such as chaning your sleeping, eating, and exercise habits).

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for nautropathy medicine in San Diego! Dr. Wolf has the background and experience to make your doctor visit the best experience you have ever had. Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for all your naturopathy needs!

Ginseng and Diabetes

2009-12-10T23:41:00.000-08:00

Several studies involving human participants have found that ginseng may lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

For example, in a study published in 2000, researchers gave capsules of North American ginseng to people with diabetes who were also receiving conventional treatment in the form of diet or prescription drugs.

In their analysis, the researchers found that subjects receiving a 3 gram dose of ginseng had a blood sugar level that was 59.1% less than subjects who had received the placebo.

More research is needed, however, because the long-term effects of ginseng aren't known. Also, it's not known how ginseng interacts with prescription diabetes medication.

People with diabetes should not take ginseng instead of standard treatment and should not combine ginseng with their prescription drugs unless supervised by a health care professional

Vitalia Natural Mediine is your #1 source for information regarding ginseng and diabetes in San Diego! Dr. Wolf has the background and experience to make sure that your diabetes can be treated naturally! Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for all your naturopathy needs!

The Basics of Detox

2009-12-10T23:28:00.000-08:00

Detox, short for detoxification, is the body's natural, ongoing process of neutralizing or eliminating toxins from the body. Toxins are transformed chemically to less harmful compounds and excreted via stools or urine.

Sources of toxins include those produced in the body during normal functions, such as the ammonia produced during the breakdown of protein, and chemicals such as pesticides, household cleaners, food additives, drugs, pollution, cigarette smoke, and heavy metals like lead that enter the body when we ingest or inhale them.

Although detox is primarily thought of as a treatment for alcohol or drug dependence, the term is also used to refer to diets, herbs, and other methods of removing environmental and dietary toxins from the body for optimum health

There are many different types of detox diets. Generally, a detox diet is a short-term diet that:

•Minimizes the amount of chemicals ingested (for example, by the use of organic food).

•Emphasizes foods that provide the vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that the body needs for detoxification.

•Contains foods, such as high fiber foods and water, that draw out and eliminate toxins by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and urination.

A growing body of research suggests that many of the chemicals we ingest daily through food, water, and air can become deposited in fat cells in our bodies. A diet that lacks certain nutrients may also impair our natural ability to detoxify chemicals, which further leads to their build-up in the body.

The cumulative load, called the "body burden", is thought to lead to illness and has been linked to hormonal imbalance, impaired immune function, nutritional deficiency, and an inefficient metabolism. Signs are thought to include indigestion, bad breath, fatigue, poor skin, and muscle pain.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for learning how to cleanse your body naturally. Dr. Wolf has the background and experience to make sure your body can enjoy the benefits of going natural. Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for your next detoxification.

What to do for High Cholesterol

2009-12-10T23:09:00.000-08:00

In some people, cholesterol levels in blood become too high. This is called high cholesterol or hyperlipidemia. High levels of LDL cholesterol (so-called "bad" cholesterol) are considered a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. LDL cholesterol is thought to irritate the lining of blood vessels, stimulating atherosclerosis, commonly known as hardening of the arteries. Although lowering LDL cholesterol and raising levels of HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol) has traditionally been the focus, factors related to free radical damage are drawing increased attention.

A few tips on using natural products to lower cholesterol:

Talk with your doctor before starting any natural method to lower cholesterol. Make your doctor knows what supplements you are taking. Fill out the supplement diary to bring to your next appointment. Don't discontinue any medication to lower cholesterol. Speak with your doctor if you have questions about your medication.

Vitamin B3, also called niacin, is used to lower cholesterol. Specifically, it appears to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. Well-designed studies have found that niacin lowers LDL cholesterol by approximately 10%, lowers triglycerides by 25%, and raises "good" HDL cholesterol by 15% to 30%. Niacin also appears to significantly lower levels for another risk factor for atherosclerosis, lipoprotein A. Niacin is available in prescription form and as a dietary supplement. The American Heart Association cautions patients to only use the prescription form of niacin.

There is some research suggesting that artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymnus) may help to lower cholesterol. Artichoke leaf extract may work by limiting the synthesis of cholesterol in the body. Artichokes also contain a compound called cynarin, believed to increase bile production in the liver and speed the flow of bile from the gallbladder, both of which may increase cholesterol excretion.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for using natural medicine to lower your cholesterol! Dr. Wolf has the background and Experience to make sure that you receive total quality care using only natural ingredients. Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine to discover new natural homeopathy!

Vitamin A and Carotenoids

2009-12-10T23:01:00.000-08:00

Vitamin A is a family of fat-soluble vitamins. Retinol is one of the most active, or usable, forms of vitamin A, and is found in animal foods such as liver and eggs. It can be converted to retinal and retinoic acid, other active forms of the vitamin A family. Some plant foods contain orange pigments called provitamin A carotenoids that the liver can convert to retinol. Beta-carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid found in many foods. Lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are also carotenoids commonly found in food, but your body cannot convert them to vitamin A.

Vitamin A plays an important role in vision, bone growth, reproduction, cell division and cell differentiation, which is the process by which a cell decides what it is going to become. It also maintains the surface linings of your eye and your respiratory, urinary, and intestinal tracts. When those linings break down, bacteria can enter your body and cause infection. Vitamin A also helps your body regulate its immune system. The immune system helps prevent or fight off infections by making white blood cells that destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Vitamin A may help lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infections, function more effectively. Vitamin A also may help prevent bacteria and viruses from entering your body by maintaining the integrity of skin and mucous membranes

Whole eggs, whole milk, and liver are among the few foods that naturally contain vitamin A. Vitamin A is present in the fat portion of whole milk, so it is not found in fat-free milk. Most fat-free milk and dried nonfat milk solids sold in the US are fortified with vitamin A. There are many other fortified foods such as breakfast cereals that also provide vitamin A. The tables of selected food sources of vitamin A suggest animal sources of vitamin A and plant sources of provitamin A carotenoids.

It is important for you to regularly eat foods that provide vitamin A or beta-carotene even though your body can store vitamin A in the liver. Stored vitamin A will help meet your needs when intake of provitamin A carotenoids or vitamin A is low.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for clinical nutrition and vitamin A and Carotenoids! Dr. Wolf has the background and experience to find natural solutions for modern health issues! Choose Vitalia Natural Medicine for your next homeopathy needs!

Yerba Mate

2009-11-17T17:58:00.000-08:00

Yerba mate is a tree native to the rainforests of South America. A member of the holly family, the tree produces leaves and stems that have long been used to make tea in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Consumed as a beverage, yerba mate tea is also used in traditional medicine to treat various health problems.

In a 2001 study of 47 healthy overweight adults, researchers found that taking a mixed herbal preparation (containing yerba mate, guarana, and damiana) three times daily for 45 days induced significant weight loss. The herbal blend also helped participants feel full more quickly while eating.

More than a drink, Yerba Mate has become a cultural phenomenon throughout South America. Its benefits are obvious. In Buenos Aires, where people carry their Mate with them throughout the day, the site of an obese person is rare.

A study published in 2008 found that yerba mate helped neutralize free radicals and protect mice from DNA damage, a hallmark of cancer and other diseases.

A number of studies have linked chronic consumption of yerba mate with increased risk of bladder, esophageal, lung, and head and neck cancers. Although researchers have yet to determine how or why yerba mate might raise cancer risk, there's evidence that steeping the tea at high temperatures may promote the absorption of certain carcinogenic compounds found in the plant.

Vitalia Natural Medicine can help you gain all the benefits of Yerba Mate by using their extensive knowledge in herbal remedies! Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for all your natural medicine needs!

Testimonials

2009-11-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

Here are what some of our valued patients are saying about us:

"The service you have provided has made it possible for me to be off a strong drug that was sapping all my energy. It is great to feel well again." L.N., Vista

"My pediatrician told me it was normal that my infant was always extremely sick and that there was no way he had allergies at his age. Vitalia doctors worked with nutrition, supplements and homeopathics to make my son a healthy boy." K.S., Carlsbad

"Since we began addressing my health concerns, my anxiety has greatly improved. I can now fall asleep, my sleep medication is cut in half,...my emotions are improved, my concentration is better, and my hot flashes are gone." K.H., Carlsbad

"My daughter was not thriving. She would not eat. Nothing seemed to work. At Vitalia, they took a comprehensive history and after careful consideration made a homeopathic recommendation. After taking the remedy, she now eats and has gained weight. Thank you, again." B.S., Cardiff

Vitalia Natural Medicine is your #1 source for natural and healthy alternative forms of medicine. With such a wide variety of sources and a long history of expertise you are sure to find something that will help you thrive with Vitalia Natural Medicine!

Herbal Remedies for Depression

2009-11-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

In any given year, nearly 20 million adults in the United States have depression. Most people with depression do not seek treatment, although the majority can be helped with treatment. The first step is to talk with your doctor, because depression is a serious illness that shouldn't be self-treated.

Here is a list of some natural herbal remedies that may treat depression:

1) St. John's Wort. This herb has been shown to be more effective than placebo to treat mild to moderate depression. It also has very few side effect. Although, it may interfere with other drugs meant to combat HIV, other anti-depressants, drugs for treatment of organ transplant rejections, and oral contraceptives.

2) omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of good fat needed for normal brain function. Our bodies can't make omega-3s on their own, so we must obtain them through our diet. Studies have linked depression with low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids. In countries with higher fish consumption, such as Japan and Taiwan, the depression rate is 10 times lower than in North American. Postpartum depression is also less common.

3) SAM-e or S-adenosyl-L-methionine. It's a chemical that's found naturally in the human body and is believed to increase levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

4) Folic Acid. Folic acid, also called folate, is a B vitamin that is often deficient in people who are depressed. Folate is found in green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruit, beans, and fortified grains. It's one of the most common vitamin deficiencies.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is committed to using natural and holistic ways to help treat medical conditions you face. This also involves the use of herbal remedies to combat health problems and concerns. Visit Vitalia Natural Medicine today and start feeling healthy again naturally!

History of Naturopathy

2009-11-11T11:16:00.000-08:00

Naturopathy is a whole medicine system that has its original roots in Germany. It has developed further throughout the 19th and 20th centuries in the United States where it is now part of the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The word naturpathy comes for the greek and latin words that translate as "nature disease".

Naturopathy was named and popularized in the United States by Benedict Lust, who was born in Germany in the late 1800s. When Lust became seriously ill with what he believed was tuberculosis, he was treated by a priest and healer in Germany named Sebastian Kneipp. Kneipp's treatment was based on various healing approaches and philosophies that were popular in Europe, including:

-Hydrotherapy

-"Nature cure" which consisted of herbal remedies, moderate exercises, exposure to more sun and air, and dietary changes.

Lust recovered from his disease and immmigrated to the united States at the turn of the 20th century. He was so convinced by the medicine he set his life goal to spreading it. He moved it through popularity in the United States and founded his first natuopathy college and professional association.

Vitalia Natural Medicine build on these principles and history to offer premium care in the field of naturopathy. With years of experience and plenty of satisfied clients, Vitalia Natural Medicine is your source for finding holistic care alternatives.

Gallstones Treatment

2009-11-03T17:06:00.000-08:00

To begin with, let us discuss what gallstones are. They are a build-up of minerals that form pebble-like substances in the gallbladder. Bile is the substance responsible for helping your body digest fat, but when bile contains too much cholesterol or other substances it can harden into gallstones. These gallstones can then block the normal passage of bile that can lead to pain.

There are a variety of natural medicines that can help you fend off these gallstones that do not require the use of any toxic substances. One solution to help prevent and rid yourself of gallstones is to eat more fiber. You can add more fiber to your diet by consuming more whole grains, flaxseed, legumes, and psyllium seeds. Or you can take fiber tablets which are vitamin supplements to give you the fiber you need without having to eat the fiber directly.

Another treatment for gallstones is to consume more vitamin C. Research has shown that women with higher levels of consumption of vitamin C helped reduce their risk for getting gallstones by nearly 50%. Vitamin C is responsible for breaking cholesterol down into bile acids, is available in all citrus fruits, broccoli, and kale. You can also take a vitamin C supplement to help you intake more.

Milk Thistle is also a natural solution to gallstones. Silibinin, the main ingredient found in milk thistle, has been found to reduce the cholesterol levels in bile, which may prevent gallstones from forming.

Vitalia Natural Medicine is a source to help you use natural remedies over conventional medicine. Vitalia Natural Medicine is dedicated to improving your health and that of your family by providing effective, non-toxic health care. They are a group of naturopathic doctors, trained as primary care providers, who use natural therapies to bring the body, mind, and spirit into balance.

Feverfew for Migraines

2009-11-03T16:52:00.000-08:00

Feverfew is a plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy in European folk medicine. It contains a compound called parthenolide, which might be able to ease muscle spasms, reduce inflammation, and prevent the contriction of blood vessels in the brain.

As far as herbal medicine goes, feverfew is often used to treat: migraines, arthritis, psoriasis, menstrual cramps, asthma, skin conditions, and stomach aches. Although scientific study on feverfew is limited, there is research to suggest that feverfew does have healing properties on these conditions.

Feverfew is available in capsule, tablet, and liquid extract form, and is available in many health food stores. There are also some side effects an individual might encounter when using feverfew, such as mild stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. Also, patients who stop long-term use of feverfew sometimes experience withdrawal like symptoms such as muscle stiffness, moderate pain, and/or anxiety. If you're allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemum, or marigold you may be sensitive to feverfew. Finally, if you're takin an anticoagulant or anttplatelet medication, you should consult your doctor before use.

Vitalia Natural Medicine can help you determine if feverfew may be a good choice for you. Vitalia Natural Medicine is dedicated to improving your health and that of your family by providing effective, non-toxic health care. They are a group of naturopathic doctors, trained as primary care providers, who use natural therapies to bring the body, mind, and spirit into balance.

What is Hydrotherapy?

2009-10-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is an ancient method of treatment using water in any of its forms (hot or cold, ice or steam) to treat a wide range of disease conditions. Naturopathic doctors are trained in a broad variety of hydrotherapy techniques including sauna, immersion bath, hot/cold packs, colonic irrigation, sitz bath, shower, etc.

Some advantages to hydrotherapy are:

Always available

Easy to learn and perform

Painless

Inexpensive

Performed at home

The goal of hydrotherapy is to improve the circulation of the blood to help improve bodily functions. Good circulation is important because blood provides nutrients and oxygen to the entire body, and if that circulation is compromised, certain areas of your body will not be receiving the nutrients it needs which can lead to a myriad of conditions. Good bloodflow also helps remove waste fro organs and tissues, and if waste builds up it can also lead to a variety of symptoms.

Some general therapeutic uses of hydrotherapy:

Reduce pain and swelling

Reduce fever

Eliminate toxins

Improve immune function

Baths are one common form of hydrotherapy. A hot bath or shower can reduce stress, encourage relaxation, and help clean out toxins. Adding minerals or herbs to the bath can ehance the healing benefits. A cold rinse after the hot bath can improve the blood flow and boost energy!

Vitalia Natural Medicine specializes in hydrotherapy, and will use it as part of a plan to help you begin feeling healthy again, naturally. Visit Vitalia Natural Medicine and start feeling better today!

Botanical (Herbal) Medicines

2009-10-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Herbal remedies have been used by all cultures since the beginning of time. Many modern pharmaceutical drugs are derived from plants, but the plants are altered, refined, and synthetically produced. Naturopathic doctors believe the unaltered, natural form of the plant provides the most desirable medicinal response with fewer to no side effects.

Herbs can be taken in many forms:

Herbal Tea

Compress

Poultice

Tincture

Syrup

Gargle

Douche

Salve

Herbal Tea: Leaves, flowers, or roots of a plant can be made into tea. Flowers and leaves are infused; roots are decocted. An infusion is a liquid preparation made by steeping an herb in either hot (not boiling) or cold water. A decoction is a liquid preparation made by boiling an herb root.

Compress: Compresses are used for a variety of reasons including, but not limited to: external application of herbs to treat wounds, infections, and muscular/joint/skin conditions.

Poultice: Like the Compress, poultice is also used by applying herbs to treat wounds, infections, and muscular/joint/skin conditions.

Tinctures: Tinctures are a liquid extract of an herb. These are made by placing the herb in a solvent, such as alcohol, and left to sit for several days at least, and the alcohol will draw out the medicinal properties of the herb. Tinctures are more potent than teas, so inessence their medicinal properties are stronger. Tinctures are used to: normalize body functions, improve the immune system, and treat illnesses.

These are just a few holistic remedies used when dealing with naturopathic doctors and medicines. To find out what is right for you, visit Vitalia Natural Medicine, and they will be happy to assist you in becoming healthier through natural means!

Why Use Naturopathic Medicine?

2009-10-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct, unique and comprehensive approach to disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention utilizing nature-based therapies.

The primary focus is to provide the least invasive, most efficacious, non-toxic therapies that address the cause of illness, not simply the suppression of symptoms.

The natural healing tradition is ancient, stemming from before the time of Hippocrates. Naturopathic medicine draws upon this historic, therapeutic knowledge and combines it with modern, science-based medical research. Naturopathic doctors maintain an open-minded perspective allowing for the use of any therapy, old or new, as long as it adheres to the core philosophy and principles of Naturopathic medicine.

The following are some of the holisitic remedies that Naturpathic doctors utilize:

Clinical Nutrition: Nowadays it is common knowledge that diet and nutrition affect health. Naturopathic doctors not only teach the components of a healthy diet but also recommend dietary changes and nutritional supplementation that are specific to a particular condition.

Botanical (Herbal) Medicine: Herbal remedies have been used by all cultures since the beginning of time. Many modern pharmaceutical drugs are derived from plants, but the plants are altered, refined, and synthetically produced. Naturopathic doctors believe the unaltered, natural form of the plant provides the most desirable medicinal response with fewer to no side effects.

Homeopathy: Homeopathy is a form of medicine that utilizes dilute, potentized remedies made from plant, animal and mineral substances. It is based on two fundamental principles:
The greater the dilution of a remedy the more powerful are its medicinal effects.
Like cures like, which means a dilute, potentized substance will produce the same symptoms as the disease when given to a healthy person.

Diet & Lifestyle Counseling: Naturopathic doctors help you identify, set and achieve goals to create a healthy lifestyle and diet as well as avoid environmental risk factors. They are trained to foster the therapeutic relationship through active, empathic listening, identifying major and minor psychological issues and employing treatment.

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is an ancient method of treatment using water in any of its forms (hot or cold, ice or steam) to treat a wide range of disease conditions. Naturopathic doctors are trained in a broad variety of hydrotherapy techniques including sauna, immersion bath, hot/cold packs, colonic irrigation, sitz bath, shower, etc.

If you are curious about using Naturopathic medicine to help heal and revitalize yourself, go ahead and visit Vitalia Natural Medicine! You will receive a comprehensive approach on bettering yourself through holistic medicine! What are you waiting for?

Meet the Vitalia Doctor

2009-10-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

Natasha Wolf received her Honors Bachelor degree in Life Sciences from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. She then attended Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington, an accredited four-year Naturopathic Medical School, where she was awarded a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine. She is a licensed Naturopathic doctor in California and a member of both the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the California Naturopathic Doctor's Association.

Dr. Wolf believes strongly in the connection between mind, body and spirit and that there is an inherent ability of the body to heal itself. She brings a unique, personal approach to her medicine combining an extensive background in homeopathy with knowledge of herbal medicines, nutrient therapy, physical medicine, nutrition and lifestyle counseling to customize a natural, non-toxic treatment plan for each individual.

Dr. Wolf practices general family medicine with an emphasis on women's health. Trained as a primary care doctor, she can effectively treat all women's health, men's health, children's medicine and acute conditions. Some conditions she has worked with include:

Menopause
Arthritis
High blood pressure
PMS
Immune system disorders
Allergies
Digestive disorders
Fatigue
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Autoimmune disorders
Thyroid and other endocrine related problems
Diabetes
AIDS and HIV
Cancer support
Detoxification.

Dr. Wolf works with people individually to identify health goals, assist patients in attaining those goals while increasing wellness, vitality and peace in their lives.

Here are what some of her clients are saying abour Dr. Wolf:

"The service you have provided has made it possible for me to be off a strong drug that was sapping all my energy. It is great to feel well again." L.N., Vista

"My pediatrician told me it was normal that my infant was always extremely sick and that there was no way he had allergies at his age. Vitalia doctors worked with nutrition, supplements and homeopathics to make my son a healthy boy." K.S., Carlsbad

If traditional medicine and cures are not working for you, or you believe that natural cures are something you would like to try, visit Vitalia Natural Medicine to see if it's right for you. Simply give them a call at (760) 720-NATURE (6288) or send them an email at mail@vitalianaturalmedicine.com to set up an appointment!

Homeopathic Flu Prevention: A safe and effective alternative to the flu vaccine

2009-10-12T12:52:00.000-07:00

The classic flu, caused by the influenza virus, is characterized by abrupt onset of fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, loss of appetite, with fatigue and weakness after a 1- to 2-day incubation period. Respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and nasal discharge are usually present at the onset of illness, but systemic symptoms predominate. Most people feel better after 1 or 2 weeks. However, for some people, the flu leads to more serious health problems, such as pneumonia.

In January 2004, the Center for Disease Control reported the flu vaccine was at most 14% effective in preventing the flu. Just recently, former president Bush revealed to the nation that in the event of an avian flu pandemic no successful vaccine would be developed until several months after the pandemic had begun. In addition to being rather ineffective, the flu vaccine contains additives and preservatives that are potentially harmful. The most dangerous of these include Formaldehyde, a known cancer-causing agent, Aluminum, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease and seizures, and Thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative that can result in brain injury and autoimmune disease.

Doctors all over the world have used homeopathic flu prevention since the early 1900s. Homeopathic medicine states that “like cures like”. By giving your body a homeopathic dilution of the influenza virus, your immune system is primed and strengthened against the virus. In addition, the adrenal glands, which react to any stressful event in your body, are supported by other homeopathic medicines in the flu protocol. Together, these medicines prepare your body for exposure to all strains of bacteria and viruses that are prevalent throughout the fall and winter months.

At Vitalia Natural Medicine, we recommend a flu prevention protocol that is used by Naturopathic and Homeopathic doctors throughout US, Canada and Europe. The homeopathic preparation contains various strains of the worst flu epidemics of the 20th century, specifically formulated to boost immune function and stimulate the body’s own defenses. It is combined with a second homeopathic, which helps our body deal with everyday stress that can lower the immune system. This protocol is safe and effective for children, adults and the elderly population, and is specifically indicated for immune compromised individuals. It is most effective when taken preventatively, and is available through licensed practitioners. Please contact your Naturopathic or Homeopathic Doctor for more information. www.vitalianaturalmedicine.com