There may be a lot of natural gout remedies that surface, but one of the first things people turn to when trying to cure the inflammation of bodily joints is gout medicine. Proper medications are typically the main solutions of people inflicted with any forms of ailments and the ones suffering from the attacks of gout. There are a lot of medications that concentrate on reducing the high levels of uric acid in the blood.
The two most common gout medicines are corticosteroids and NSAIDs. These help reduce inflammation in the affected joints. NSAIDs are taken by mouth in high dosages. They also aid in prohibiting the spread of prostaglandin, a substance that plays its part in causing you severe pain during a gout flare-up.
If NSAIDs aren't effective for you, then turning to corticosteroids are the next doctor recommendation. Like NSAIDs, these also give instant relief to gout victims. They are injected directly into the inflamed joint to mainly target that area.
But there is a downside to using corticosteroids as your gout medicine. You can't take it daily or during repeat flare-ups, because frequently using this medication will damage the joint and weaken the surrounding bone cartilage.
If both of the above medications fail, then your doctor may recommend that you take colchicines. These can be used once every hour for the first 12 hours of the flare-up. Even though you can experience diarrhea and stomach cramps and an upset stomach as side effects of taking this gout medicine, colchicines have been around for hundreds of years and have proven themselves to be an effective pain reliever.
Gout medicine, like most medications, definitely has its share of side effects. Thus, it is important that you take some time to carefully consider your options. Seeking help from professionals, specialists, and even other gout sufferers with resources will play a salient role in relieving your gout attacks.
About the Author:
When modern medicine fails, you have natural gout treatment you can use to conquer your gout once and for all. Halt your suffering and get fast relief and freedom from the pain from now on with a safe kitchen remedy at http://www.GetGoutRelief.com.
Though fennel is native to Europe, especially the Mediterranean region, it is today cultivated in many other parts of the world, including Asia, China, and North America. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a tall perennial herb. The leaves, bulb, and stalk of fennel look a lot like white celery and are edible. Its seeds are used as both a spice in cooking and in making herbal medicines. Fennel has a sweet licorice taste, and is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Fennel has appeared in European history records for centuries. It grows wild in many parts of the world usually in dry soils upon river-banks or near the sea-coast, particularly on limestone soils. It is cultivated in the south of France, Galicia, Saxony, Russia, India and Persia. The odor of Fennel seed is pleasant and it has a warm, sweet and aromatic taste.
Fennel has a thick bright green root-stock and stout stems. The four to five feet tall plant has a certain beauty about it. The branched leaves bring forth bright golden flowers that blossom in July and early August each having thirteen to twenty rays.
The stems are used in soups or salads. Some even claim that eating the peeled stalks relaxes the body for sleep.
The presence of terpenoid anethole in fennel has made it famous for treating digestive ailments since the time of the ancient Egyptians. It has the ability to calm the gastrointestinal tract and relieve cramps. Often fennel is mixed with wormwood, peppermint, and caraway to treat heartburn, indigestion, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Fennel has traditionally be used to stimulate menstruation and milk production in nursing mothers, and to treat hormonal imbalance including PMS, menopause, and low libido. One study showed that fennel enhances the effects of estrogen in the system. It is used to relax the uterus, and to promote natural breast enhancement.
Fennel also helps with congestion problems by loosing phlegm in the breathing passages and treating a persistent cough. Give the patient fennel tea to do this, made by crushing 1 to 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds and mixing them in a cup of hot water.
Fennel also has a reputation for being an appetite suppressant and thus it is used to promote weight-loss. Some studies have shown that fennel has some diuretic effect, and may help reduce water retention.
Fennel can be purchased as an oil, seed, capsule, tincture, or liquid seed extract. You can also grow it yourself but keep it away from tomatoes or caraway as this will hinder their production. Use 2 to 12 drops of the oil, or 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of the seeds, or .5 teaspoons of the liquid daily.
A few cautions are in order. Some have reported allergic and asthmatic reactions to fennel. Don't give it to small children or take it for extended periods yourself. Don't take it if you are a pregnant or lactating woman either.
About the Author:
Though this piece has covered many advantages of the fennel seed, more are provided on our website: MoreThanAlive.com. Click the links to visit us and learn how whole fennel seed can boost your body's health!
Simple Answers - What Causes Halitosis (Bad Breath)?
Everyone has had bad breath at least once in their life. It happens. Maybe you ate something, or you forgot to brush your teeth. However, there are people that have chronic bad breath, or halitosis. And sometimes they don't even know their breath stinks! Friends and family don't like to bring it up because a persons breath can actually be a very personal topic. So, what really does cause bad breath? Can it be avoided? Knowing a few simple facts can prevent a lot of embarrassment later.
Things That Can Cause Bad Breath
Garlic and onions are well known for making breath stinky. It doesn't matter how many times you brush your teeth, or suck on mints, the smell takes forever to go away! The reason for this is because after the garlic or onions are ingested, the odor causing agents are circulated through the blood stream. So when a person breaths the air is filtered through the garlic smelling blood thus making their breath smell for hours! So, dispite some of the wonderful flavors of both of these dragon-breath agents, most everyone knows to stay clear of them several hours before going into the public.
Not only can bad smelling foods circulate through the blood, food can also get stuck on or in between teeth after meals. If a person doesn't brush their teeth soon after eating, the food can rot causing bacteria to grow inside the mouth which can cause bad breath.
Bad breath may also be persistent (chronic bad breath), which is a more serious condition. This can affect some 25% of the population in varying degrees. This condition is usually caused by the one's metabolic activity, or how your body breaks down certain types of oral bacteria. Checking with your doctor is the best way to find a solution to this condition.
Gum and mouth diseases can also cause terrible bad breath. A dentist would be able to find the best solution to those issues.
Stopping the Causes of Bad Breath.
Since there is no single reason for halitosis, it is best to consult a doctor to uncover the primary reason in each separate case. A regular dental check-up should uncover whether any aspect of oral health is responsible for lingering foul odors, while blood tests can establish systemic answers to the vexed question of what causes bad breath. Halitosis could be a result of a potentially serious condition, so medical evaluation of the problem is always a good idea. However, you need not wait until you get a dental or a doctor's appointment, to take action on learning that there is a bad smell in your mouth, for there are effective steps that you can safely take on your own.
General oral hygiene should be sufficient to treat bad breath if you are healthy. Stay away from tobacco and strong smelling foods. Keep a regular schedule of brushing your teeth and flossing as well. Sometimes that's all you'll need to do!
If you have ever experienced the symptoms that comes with sinusitis you realize how difficult it cam be. There is no comfort when you are constantly sneezing, coughing, feeling all stuffed up and feeling aches and pains in your body. One way that you may not be aware of to alleviate some of this suffering is to eat foods that relieve sinusitis symptoms. There are several foods available that you can eat to help treat sinusitis.
If you know anything about vampires, you know that a vampire's least favorite food is garlic. Well garlic is also a great food to eat when you are suffering from bronchitis. Garlic helps to break down the mucus build up, making it easier for you to force the mucus out of your body. Therefore if you can eat food that contains garlic, it will help bring relief to your sinusitis condition.
A second example of a food you can eat to treat sinusitis is horseradish. Horseradish also have sinusitis treating properties. Like garlic, it is a natural decongestant and you can use it to clear your nasal passageways and make it easier to breathe. Horseradish is a highly effective weapon in the battle of treating sinusitis.
One interesting food choice for people dealing with sinusitis is Cajun food. The spicy style of Cajun does wonders for clearing up the nasal passages. Don't make the mistake of believing that all spicy food does this though. The type of spices used to prepare Cajun food simply has a natural decongestant that makes it a more effective food to eat if you are looking to relieve sinus symptoms.
If you are interested in learning more about different dishes that contain these attributes, the following is a list of different dishes that you can investigate:
If you are interested in food that contains garlic, you can use garlic soup, garlic shrimp scampi, garlic chicken, garlic bread, and garlic mashed potatoes. If you enjoy pizza, feel free to add garlic powder on your pizza. Some other examples of great garlic food include garlic baked bananas, baked garlic pate, creamy zucchini and garlic, garlic ginger lime salmon and for dessert you can even have garlic ice cream.
If you are interested in food that contains horseradish, you can start adding barbecue horseradish source to hamburgers, beef kebabs or seafood kebabs. There are several foods that you can add horseradish to as well. There are some great breakfast foods that you can add horseradish to. These foods include sausages, scrambled eggs and tomato juice. You can also add horseradish to salad, corned beef brisket, as well as pizza.
When it comes down to Cajun food there are many different options available to you. For the truly adventurous you can try such Cajun dishes as alligator, crawfish, armadillo, frog legs, duck, moose, and even quail! Some other more common Cajun dishes include Cajun gumbo, jambalaya, and Cajun dirty rice.
About the Author:
Visit Paul Tamens' Sinusitis Cure Website to *Completely* Get Rid Of Your Painful Sinus Infection, Quickly and Easily, Using a Time-Tested at Home Remedy!
If you are thinking about taking hoodia diet pills to help you with your weight loss, you probably know that CITES certificates differentiate pure hoodia gordonii from inferior hoodia products. Yet, I wonder how many people truly understand what the CITES certificate really is and why it's so important. As a consumer I want you to know what the certificate is and what it means within the hoodia market.
The hoodia gordonii plant is a protected species due to its limited supply and high demand. It is only found in South Africa and until recent years, was only grown wild. Due to the increasing popularity for hoodia gordonii, farming began in an attempt to keep up with skyrocketing demand. In order to protect the hoodia plant and the industry as a whole, including the San people who have a vested interest in their native crop, the South African government implemented controls, licenses, and regulations for the harvesting and exportation of hoodia gordonii.
One of the basic regulations put in place for the endangered hoodia gordonii is the implementation of the CITES certificate. CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. This is basically an agreement between governments that ensures that international trade of the plant doesn't threaten its survival. There are other regulations and documents that are required, too, but for the sake of this article I am only going to discuss the CITES certificate.
In order for a company to legally export hoodia gordonii from South Africa, an export permit from CITES must be obtained. Every shipment exported from South Africa must be accompanied by a CITES permit. These permits expire in six months, but the expiration period only pertains to the actual shipment of hoodia gordonii out of South Africa. In other words, a supplier has six months from the time they are issued a CITES permit to actually ship the hoodia gordonii out of South Africa. If they don't and the shipment of hoodia sits in the port, the supplier must reapply for a new permit.
There has been a lot of confusion about the dates on CITES permits. Some people are made to believe that the dates on these permits must be "current" or the company involved in the selling of hoodia gordonii is shady or lying. A CITES certificate that is outdated or old is just that - which means the six month window of exportation has expired.
When someone exports hoodia gordonii from South Africa, the original CITES permit stays with the inventory until it is gone. If a supplier exports thousands of kilograms of hoodia on one permit, they may not sell out of it for months and months. Yes, the date on the CITES permit will be expired, but the permit itself is still valid and proves the hoodia gordonii is legal and authentic. Just because a CITES permit may have expired doesn't mean the plant that is being used is a fake, or that shady practices are involved in the business.
Something that is important for you to know is a CITES certificate may have a different company's name on it than the company you are purchasing the hoodia products from. This means you may go to the XYZ Company to purchase hoodia supplements and upon viewing their CITES certificate you see the supplier's name is ABC Company. The names on the CITES permits may not always match up.
Supplement companies purchase their hoodia gordonii from suppliers. Suppliers are the ones that are listed on the CITES permits. These are the companies that actually go in and export the hoodia out of South Africa. There are only a limited number of suppliers who can obtain CITES permits. In the above example, the ABC Company is the supplier of the hoodia gordonii to the XYZ Company.
It's important that you understand that just because a website display a CITES certificate isn't a guarantee that the company is packaging pure hoodia gordonii into their products. As you probably know, there are no regulations on supplements, so companies can make claims about their products, even if they may not be true.
That is not always true. Keep in mind that the only thing a CITES permit proves is that a supplier was given the right to export "X amount" of hoodia gordonii from South Africa. Once the supply is exported, the supplier and any company purchasing hoodia from the supplier can do what they want with the hoodia gordonii. A company may claim they are selling a hoodia diet pill that contains 500mg of authentic hoodia gordonii, and while they may have a CITES certificate for the supply they purchased, they may not use a full 500mg in each capsule! They may only use 250mg or 150mg or whatever may be the case.
Now that you have a better understanding of what the CITES certificate is and what its role is, you know why looking for one is important when trying to find authentic hoodia gordonii diet pills and products.
About the Author:
Did you know that the CITES certificate is just one of 13 things to be aware of when you buy hoodia pills? Get the detailed list of what to be aware of and read reviews of the best hoodia here.
You could be one of the many who could use some appetite suppressors. But are you even convinced that you really need them? What are your appetite suppressant options?
Why Use Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants are just what the term suggests. These are substances, procedures or techniques people use to help curb the appetite or craving for food. People typically need these as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. It is obvious that someone who has a constant craving for food will have a hard time managing or maintaining his ideal weight. Depending on the substance or technique of choice, suppressants can either modify chemical signals or reactions in the body or they can modify food choices and intake to cut appetite.
Suppressant Options
There are many appetite suppressant options. Your doctor could prescribe you with certain medications. It is important to note though that these medicines are usually recommended only for a brief period of time. They are therefore used only to control appetite while a person on a weight loss program is trying to fit into prescribed food choices and eating habits.
Appetite Suppressor Techniques - Aside from the medical option, you could also use techniques that are also appetite suppressors. Some of these techniques include eating slowly, drinking water before a meal, eating salads before a meal and eating small but frequent portions. You can also modify your food choices to contain more vegetables which contain fiber and whole wheat grains which contain complex carbohydrates. By modifying aspects of your diet and habits, you also limit your appetite.
Natural Products - A final option would be to use natural products to stop your appetite. Reputable natural products contain main ingredients that have been traditionally known in many countries as suppressants. In the past, the popular option has been to use products containing Hoodia. The plant however is an endangered and protected one so not every product that says it contains Hoodia really does. A more recent discovery is the Indian plant Caralluma. A reputable product that contains Caralluma has the same appetite suppressing effect as Hoodia products. Caralluma has passed tests for general safety.
Making Your Choice
The Trouble with Appetite - The truth is that it really is difficult to try to curb your appetite. Some individuals can jump from one method to another without truly finding that one method that is completely effective. This is because people are unique individuals and not every effective technique will work on everyone.
Safety - When you do make your choice though, safety should be your main concern. You would want to suppress your appetite in an effective but safe way. Otherwise, you could suffer from side effects or put yourself at risk of experiencing complications. In this case, losing weight would be pointless.
Consulting a Doctor - To assess the safety of an option, you could ask your doctor to extensively discuss each option. You shouldn?t just take your doctor?s word on it though. You should also perform your own research on various appetite suppressors. Always remember that your health and well being are on the line. Make the right choice.
Numerous drugs are being marketed today to combat heart disease. But along with these drugs comes the risk of unpleasant side effects for the user. This is one reason many patients are using alternative medical treatments to take care of heart disease instead of traditional medicines which can have detrimental side effects.
A popular alternative treatment that shows promise in helping patients to manage their heart condition, or avoid developing one, is acupuncture. Acupuncture has been used by the Chinese for centuries to enhance health and wellbeing, through the use of small needles which are inserted into appropriate locations in the body.
According to tradition, acupuncture aids in the movement of blocked energy in your body. It removes the obstruction and facilitates the flow of energy once again. And research indicates that there's something to this practice.
Scientific investigation shows evidence that acupuncture can relieve hypertension, which in turn reduces the chances of heart disease. There is also data that shows it can decrease the risk of angina, which is chest pains caused when the heart's blood vessels go into spasm. In the studies, those who chose acupuncture to treat their angina recuperated sooner than those who relied on traditional medication.
Acupuncture is generally painless because the needles used are so tiny. It can also be a relaxing experience. Once the needles are inserted into your body, you lie quietly for several minutes and rest.
When you're deciding on where to go for your acupuncture treatment, check that the practitioner has certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. This lets you know that they have a good education and that they continually update their knowledge.
Acupuncture is covered by some medical insurance, but most people will probably have to pay out of pocket. Visits range widely in cost across the country. It's a good idea to call several practitioners in your area to find out about the going rate.
Several visits may be required before getting the results that you are seeking. But the end result may be worth it because there are no side effects such as those typically associated with drug alternatives, not to mention the expense and risk of addiction to traditional medicines.
Some people are unsure about alternative medicine therapies, but a quick look online can show you that science is beginning to come around to this ancient form of medicine. The Chinese have been practicing it for centuries, and Westerners really are the ones behind the times.
Many studies are confirming what people have known traditionally for a long time - acupuncture does work in many cases.
About the Author:
Keira Adams enjoys writing about health and wellness, and is publisher of Heart Health at http://heartwellnessnow.com/, where you can learn all about heart disease causes, effects and treatments.
More health products are relying on natural elements for their ingredients such as coral calcium. A vital part of this product comes from the calcium carbonate of coral reefs that are off the southern coast of Japan. Calcium carbonate are the main mineral in these sea reefs and acts as a glue to keep the reefs intact which is why when buying coral calcium, Japan based sources are the best.
Climatic and ecological conditions are the main requirements for the reef to be generated. Under the sea where the temperature is between twenty to thirty degree Celsius, there are more chances that these kind of fully developed reefs exist. These reefs need coral calcium which is provided by the sunlight. Sunlight helps in the survival of the delicate organisms which are a part of required infrastructure. Most of the inhabitants on the reef survive on algae, as it is the basic source of nutrient. So the sunlight becomes more important.
In fact, the coral calcium Japan is famous for comes from a complex ecosystem. The reefs are teeming with life that represent a complicated food chain. The algae and plant life provide food for the herbivorous fish who in turn produce the waste that builds more sections of the reef that the algae grows on.
The living corals that form the giant reefs, are part of a group of marine animals that include hydroids, jellyfish and sea anemones called Cnidaria. Usually symmetrical, with one opening to the digestive tract, coral has a stinger that protects the coral polyp with its venom. Stony coral secretes an outer covering called an exoskeleton which protects the soft structures of the coral polyps.
The coral reefs are home for many species of organisms - some are day dwellers and some are night dwellers but all of these fungi, sponges, worms and fish play a critical part in the eco system of the reef.
Coral calcium comes from coral reefs that are complicated ecosystems teeming with plant and animal life. The complicated synergy within the coral reef plays a vital role in the health benefits that are packed into the coral. The best source of this is Okinawa which is why coral calcium Japan based supplements are typically the most sought after.
It is not by a mishap that Hoodia Gordonii became a wonderful product for weight loss. Enormous amount of study and development was done before the launch of this product in the market. The various researches done on this product showed that this product could strongly and safely repress the desire for food so that the caloric intake is limited to one thousand calories per day.
Until now no case has been found where people who took Hoodia Gordonii as a supplement along with their diet had any dangerous side effects. There are a few tales which have floated up telling that a few are experiencing a "mild aphrodisiac and raise in mood". An element called "P57" is found in "Fat burners" that have Hoodia Gordonii. This substance is thought to be responsible for the repression of appetite.
Even though the popularity of Hoodia Gordonii has increased globally in recent times, it has been used for centuries as an appetite suppressant. While on long hunting expeditions in the Kalahari Desert, the Bushmen tribe will consume Hoodia Cactus to increase strength and restrict thirst and hunger.
Hoodia Gordonii is internationally famous as a neutral product. Until now no appetite suppressant has come into the market which is as effectual as Hoodia Gordonii. There are only a few companies that offer uncontaminated and effective Gordonii products that get consumer's approval.
Those who are keen to embark on a new weight loss or management program can take advantage of the new Gordonii compound. Its fame has increased manifold after more and more people showing interest in this new product.
Consumers are looking for an effective hunger & thirst reducing product to aid in weight loss and many insist that Hoodia supplements are the answer.
There are nearly twenty Hoodia plants and Hoodia Gordonii is one of them. Nevertheless, it is the only plant that has the appetite suppressant that helps in reducing weight. There are many diet pills and other "appetite suppressants" present in the market now a days, but are found to have many dangerous side effects. On the contrary, no known side effects are there in Hoodia Gordonii.
If you are thinking about adding Hoodia Gordonii to your weight loss plan, consult your physician before making changes in your diet and exercise plan. A carefully planned weight loss program is more likely to be followed, and as a result leads to success.
About the Author:
You may have seen the news piece about hoodia on 60 Minutes. Weight loss guru Philip McDonald gives more details on this natural weight loss plan in his articles.
Alternative health practices are gaining popularity simply because they work. Conventional health care treats diseases that have already struck, alternative health care seeks to create and maintain the best health while stopping disease and physical ailments before they begin. Old fashioned methods of keeping healthy are worth another look. That is why alternative health regimens are becoming popular again. The most coveted benefit of alternative health methods is the holistic approach taken by practitioners. The idea that the mind body and spirit work together to maintain wellness.
Good Health
Alternative health is the fastest growing segment of the health care industry in America. Alternative health offers amazing benefits such as increased self-awareness, abounding peace, feelings of "centeredness," and increased mental and physical health. The best alternative therapy or health products for your individual needs can be researched at Alternatively-Healthier.com. Without researching appropriate alternative health methods your wellness, peace of mind, and well-being can suffer, leaving you feeling "stuck" with conventional health care methods that you may feel are too invasive.
Body
What does your body need to function properly? Many people are attracted to alternative physicians emphasis on treating the whole person body, mind and spirit. Chiropractic is one form of alternative health care, or complementary and alternative medicine, that focuses on the structure of our body, specifically the spine, nerves, muscles and all their related functions.
Chiropractic practice deals with the numerous ill affects that can take a toll on the body due to misalignment of the spine. Treatment requires physical manipulation of the body's structure to relieve pain and discomfort. Chiropractic treatment never turns to surgery to fix spinal and muscular ailments. Moreover, people who rely on a natural approach to body care feel a greater control over their health.
The Holistic Approach
When you consider that scientific evidence has indicated that more than 90% of cancers are environmentally induced, and that about 80% of health problems are either created or negatively affected by stress, it starts to make sense to look at health in a holistic way. Alternative health practitioners tend to emphasize a holistic approach to patient care.
Alternative health practitioners study holistic medicine in-depth through the study of disease and pathology, anatomy, energy healing, physiology, herbal medicine, detoxification, homeopathy, iridology, orthomolecular holistic nutrition, flower essence remedies and a host of natural medicine practices. There are both degreed and non-degreed programs in holistic medicine.
There are many natural medicine schools that give basic workshops and seminars in holistic practices for the public at large. Sometimes, you can find a beginner's look into self-massage, homemade herbal remedies, natural vitamins and supplements, reflexology and more.
Alternative health zeros in on the Mind-Body-Spirit connection and how it interacts with the environment. More than eating organic veggies or taking yoga, alternative health is about gaining optimal health. The difference from conventional health care is the search for creating good health and preventing disease and physical ailments from striking all together.
The growing interest in alternative health is a boon to chiropractic practice as routine health maintenance. The paradox between technology and alternative health is actually a strength of our society. That is why it is so important to remember that we always have a choice. Alternative health is growing as people search for a more holistic solution to their health complaints and look to hang on to their quality of life further into the future.
About the Author:
Leave your skepticism at the door and journey through the portal for alternative health information. Discover important insight to herbal remedies that care for the body as a whole, instead of than one individual illness.
Most health articles and books assume human beings are all the same. Not so. We are unique. And yet we all get the same advice to load up on vegetables and fruits and keep away from fat.
Fat gets the blame for everything these days. Cancer. Heart Disease. Obesity. Rising fuel prices. Whatever. We should cut the fat and switch to carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Fat Is A Good Guy
Well let me tell you about a medically approved diet for some children. 90% of the calories on this diet come from fat. The kids are normal weight and their cholesterol levels only a tad higher than usual. These children have epilepsy and this diet controls their seizures.
A typical meal of chicken, carrots, double cream and butter might turn your stomach. But to these kids and their families, it's just what the doctor ordered.
I can see you're not convinced. You think that case is special. For everyone else we can state that fruits and vegetables are beneficial and that fats should be avoided.
No, it's not as simple as that. The number one dietary deficiency, according to some nutritionists, is.....fat.
Saturated fat from meat and dairy is not the enemy it's often portrayed as. It may not be particularly desirable, but our bodies are well adapted to eating it. The real problem is that we're eating far too much of the omega 6 and trans fats from vegetable oils and far too little omega 3 from oily fish.
Vegetable Can Be Bad
A Glasgow university professor warns us that the fastest growing cancer in the UK could be caused by eating vegetables. Professor McColl and his colleagues at Glasgow University believe that nitrate fertilisers may be responsible for seeing the incidence of throat cancer treble over the last 2 decades.
Buying organic is not the answer. They are also loaded with nitrate.
I could mention all the naturally occurring toxins, carcinogens and mutagens found in fruits and vegetables. But I won't. At least not for this article.
I could even mention those that are especially sensitive to carbohydrates. They must limit their intake of vegetables and fruits because they cause their blood sugar levels to swing wildly. But we'll leave that alone.
I might even mention the many people who have a toxic reaction to certain foods. Even 'healthy' foods, like grapefruit, oranges, tomatoes, onions.
I could also mention those that are allergic to aspirin. The chemical which is contained within this drug is also high in vegetables and fruits.
Am I seriously telling you to avoid fruits and vegetables and eat fatty foods instead? No, certainly not. For most people this is excellent advice. The point I'm making is that you are an individual. You have your own dietary requirements and needs. There is nobody on earth like you, so don't let anybody else tell you what to eat. Get to know your own body's needs. Listen to what it is trying to tell you.
Listen to your own body, not to the nutrition gurus.
About the Author:
Michael Sellar is a UK health writer and the editor of Enzyme Digest, a newsletter for health professionals. His website london complementary health includes a fuller version of this piece as well as lots of other pieces on nutrition and holistic medicine.
The most pervasive concept of aromatherapy in North America is that of nice smells making you feel good - a strong whiff out of a little bottle and you're carried away to your personal 'happy place'. Not a bad idea, but this concept carries the burden of 'New Age' stereotypes with it. Aromatherapy is but a simple folk remedy that works only because the yoga-posing, mantra-chanting, tantric-sex practicing user thinks it does. Well, we've got news for the 'Establishment': Science has validated aromatherapy! Perhaps most profoundly, science has shown that smelling essential oils has true anti-anxiety effects; there's actual data showing essential oils will actually help you relax. Now all you natural health and wellness practitioners can tell your doubting, possibly smirking friends - this stuff is for real.
The number of studies investigating the therapeutic actions of essential oils has exploded over the last ten years, as popular interest grows in the areas of natural health and wellness. The efficacy of may 'folk' remedies is being validated, with many of them having benefits at least as potent as their pharmaceutical counterparts, and most having very limited, if any, side effects. This is especially true with the use of essential oils for reducing stress and lessening anxiety. And what's wonderful about the oils is that their readily available and easy to use. A mother with active children can just plug in a diffuser and let it do its thing. A stressed-out commuter can do the same. Feeling a little wound up, but want to keep the aroma a little more personal? Apply a few drops of diluted oil to yourself or loved one wherever you like. What oils have these anti-anxiety effects? Let's have a look...
Lavender has been the most frequently studied of all the essential oils. Its anti-anxiety (or simply 'relaxing') action has been documented both in the laboratory (using stressed-out mice and rats) and in clinical environments with actual human beings. Many, many studies have reported the same thing: inhalation of lavender oil brings calm under a great variety of conditions. At least one study compared Lavender oil aroma to that of Juniper, Cypress, Geranium, Jasmine and Frankincense. It was only the Frankincense that had a somewhat similar effect, but not nearly as effective as Lavender. Several studies compared Lavender's effect to diazepam (Valium) with Lavender's aroma having similar (but likely more healthy) calming results. In other studies, Lavender has been shown to improve sleep, decrease conflict between animals, and reduce the amount of pain medication needed by recovering hospital patients.
Sandalwood oil is another well-known stress reducer. For those that may not enjoy the floral aroma of Lavender, Sandalwood could be the oil of choice. Its warm, earthy scent is grounding and centering, being used by some spiritual traditions to enhance relaxed, focused meditative states. The science shows similar results - Sandalwood oil topically applied relaxed the body while stimulating psyche. Studies on sleep/wake cycles using Sandalwood oil topically improved the quality of sleep and lessened waking episodes. A small study using Sandalwood suggested the oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety for palliative care patients. Beyond the scope of Western scientific inquiry, Sandalwood oils and pastes have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of psychological disorders, utilizing its sublime mental-health promoting actions.
While Sandalwood and Lavender have the most data to back them up, many other essential oils have had positive test results. Rose is a standout; it has also been tested alongside Valium (apparently the anti-anxiety gold standard) with better and longer-lasting results. The rose aroma's effect seem to increase over time, where as benzodiazepines' effect will tend to decrease - and the test subjects appeared less confused or sedated. Rose, like Lavender, reduced conflict between test subjects as well. For a little variety, you can mix Rose and Sandalwood together (try a 1:4 ratio)...this is a classic Indian aromatic blend combining two of the world's best known anti-anxiety scents.
Other oils found in research databases include Angelica, Chamomile, Lemon, Lemongrass, Tagetes and Ylang Ylang. Some oils tested didn't show repeatable results in the laboratory environment, but if you find and oil aroma that you find relaxing, it's more than likely not purely 'in your head'; the olfactory (smell) sense is the one of the five senses most directly wired to the brain's emotional centers. These are, in turn, directly wired to the autonomic nervous system controlling functions such as heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure - all of which are closely tied to one's level of stress.
So what to do with these stress relieving wonders? They're really easy to use - one of the great features of aromatherapy. Both topical application and inhalation show repeatable results in laboratory tests. A common method of topical application is to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil like Jojoba down to 10% or less. Essential oils tend to pass easily into the bloodstream when applied to the skin, so nearly any technique will do. A few drops of your mixture can be placed on the wrists and rubbed together (this is nice, as you'll smell the aroma as well). For inhalation, there's a great many aromatherapy diffusers available, from little, inexpensive plug in units, to professional models which make a cloud of pure, intense aroma. For anxiety relief, any model where you can smell the aroma will do the job - the higher end diffusers tend to bathe a larger area in your aroma of choice.
In aromatherapy, a little scent and sense goes a long way. You only really need enough oil to get a hint of the aroma for a psychologically active effect - so experiment with small amounts of several oils. There seems to be a great difference in aromatic preference between individuals; some like florals, while other's find them too fluffy. These folks might find earthier aromas more to their liking. And different aromas will likely have subtly different effects - some can be both relaxing and stimulating (Citrus oils are a good example) where others can be just plain relaxing (the floral aromas generally have this effect). Whatever your choice, know that aromatherapy is now not just some New Age fad...the men in white coats have given the thumbs-up to natural health and wellness by just simply stopping and smelling the roses.
Have you ever come across advertisements encouraging you to buy Caralluma? But what exactly is Caralluma? Is it something you really need? Here?s what you need to know about the newest natural ingredient that is making waves across the globe.
What it Is
The Vegetable - Caralluma is a succulent plant from the cactus group that is native to India. It is considered an edible vegetable and can be eaten raw or cooked and mixed with other vegetables and spices. At first sight it may seem much like any other ordinary dish ingredient. In reality though, Caralluma is more special than you would imagine. It is a plant that can suppress your appetite for food. It can therefore be a crucial element in a weight loss or weight management program. Since Caralluma can limit the appetite, it can also ensure weight loss.
In the past, Indian hunters ate pieces of the plant before long hunts. This ensured that they were able to endure long periods without eating. Non-hunters also used the plant to keep hunger at bay during times of famine. Now, consumers from all over the world can benefit from Caralluma. Extracts of the plant are now contained in natural products that can be bought over the counter.
Why it is a Good Option
There are other plants and natural products that suppress appetite. Why is it a better choice to buy Caralluma? The first major reason is that Caralluma is a natural ingredient. Natural products that contain pure extracts that aren?t mixed with man-made chemicals give you some assurance that you will not experience any side effects. Caralluma has undergone some scientific tests and has been found to be generally safe for oral intake.
Unlimited Sources - Caralluma is also not the only natural ingredient with appetite suppressing properties. The reason however why Caralluma is a preferred option by some is because the supply of the plant itself is not limited. It also already has centuries of history of use as an effective appetite suppressant. You won?t need better proof of ingredient effectiveness than years of actual use.
Where You Can Buy It
Buy Online - The Caralluma plant itself can of course be found in India. Unless you want to go to India or order the plants in bulk from India, you would have to be content with buying products containing Caralluma. There are a number of product websites online that will give you instructions on how to conveniently order Caralluma products.
Choosing the Best - Since there are different products available, you would have to make sure that you have the most effective one. This is often hard to determine unless you have tried the various product options yourself. You don?t want to waste your time though. You can find the best product options by manually evaluating product sites and reading consumer reviews and ratings. There?s nothing better than finding out what real product users have to say about a Caralluma product.
Eczema can be a very debilitating condition. It can be equally hard to live with as there is no known cure for it at present. However there are ways to minimise the effects the condition can have on your daily life.
Obviously one of the best ways to cope with the condition is to try and find out what the cause of eczema is. Unfortunately, there doesn?t appear to be a single root cause for all cases of eczema (at least none that has yet been found), but there are certain factors which seem to aggravate the condition.
Trying To Find The Cause Of Eczema
As it is a known fact that many eczema sufferers are also prone to suffering from allergies (hay fever is an excellent example of this) ? some doctors believe it is a good idea to take an allergy test.
An allergy test won't magically reveal the cause of eczema, but it will reveal what kind of allergens produce an unwanted reaction in your body - a reaction that could cause your eczema to flare up.
Dust in the house is a common allergen, so eczema sufferers who test positive for this should consider buying hypoallergenic bedding to minimise the amount of dust mites and other irritants that may be the cause of eczema flare ups.
Therefore, the results of an allergy test can point to irritants you can try to exclude (or at the very least minimise) in your everyday life. By doing this, you may find that the cause of eczema in your own life can be isolated and the effects reduced.
Another common cause of eczema occurs in everyone's life at some point or another. Stress can be a big trigger but not many people realise it can have such a big effect on an eczema sufferer.
If you notice that you become easily stressed and that it affects your eczema then you should find ways and means of reducing your stress, Make some time for yourself each day to simply relax and enjoy something, whether it's reading a good book or reclining in the bath. Meditation is an excellent method of stress release.
As with all healing reducing your stress levels won't happen overnight, but if you recognize it as being the trigger for your eczema flare-up, persevering towards a more relaxed lifestyle will yield big benefits in the long run.
Every cause has an effect, and finding the cause of eczema in your own life may not be easy, but you can find what feeds it. Take this source away, and your eczema should improve.
About the Author:
For More Information On Causes Of Eczema Click Here You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.
Tea tree essential oils is most commonly known for their skin applications, research has shown that tea tree oil can be used in many ways too, such as an antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral property.
There are over 100 different components in the native tree from the Northeast coast of Australia. All of these components play an important factor in the healing properties of tea tree oil.
Tea Tree oil is one of the few essential oils that you don't have to dilute before applying to the skin. It is concentrate natural oil safe for most skin types but those with sensitive skin may prefer to dilute it.
Here are the benefits of tea tree oils :
Athletes Foot: Tea tree oil has been shown to treat a wide range of fungal infections and symptoms, including athlete's foot. Athletes foot is commonly known to grow in warm, moist areas between the toes and the sides and soles of feet. It is highly infectious and spreads quickly in locker and shower rooms. To eliminate athlete's foot, you can use tea tree oil as a topical application. Suggestion is three or more times a day applying pure tea tree oil to the infected area. Tea Tree oil uses includes topical treatment of skin infections such as ringworm.
Treat Cold and Flu: Tea tree oil can treated Cold and flu symptoms. For sore throats, it is recommends to add ten drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water and gargle. Do this twice a day. This treatment will help clear mucus and kill bacteria.
Sinus: Add 5-10 drops to steaming hot water for an inhalant or put a few drops of tea tree oil in a steam bath. You can rub around sinuses. Using this treatment at the onset of symptoms will aid in killing germs and bacteria.
Gum infections: Using tea tree oil mouthwash diluted in water can help remedy and prevent gum disease and plaque. Be careful not to swallow it. Small amounts are not considered toxic, though the stomach might rebel.
Candida Albicans Infections: As fungidal properties, tea tree can help clear vaginal thrush and is of value with commonly treating genital infections generally.
Acne: Soaked a cotton ball in straight or diluted tea tree oil and gently wipe the skin with it. This can help calm inflammation, diminish infection and prevent new acne sores from developing. It won't irritate troubled skin, while killing bacteria that aggravate skin eruptions. It can be used on the face, neck, chest and back. Mix a few drops with acne cleanser to boost its effectiveness.
Head Lice: Head lice can be treated by adding ten drops of tea tree oil to shampoo. The hair and scalp should be wet and lathered thoroughly. Use a fine toothed- comb before shampoo is rinsed off. Avoid direct contact with eyes when washing hair with tea tree oil. This method should be use several times along with treating the house and all of the infected bedding. Tea tree oil can be added to the wash when washing the sheets and bedding.
Insect Bites: A drop or two of tea tree oil can be applied directly onto an insect bite or sting to help alleviate swelling, itching and redness.
Skin Irritations and Sunburns Treatment: Using several drops of tea tree oil added to bath water can help reduce the swelling and itching from skin irritations. In addition the same method can be used to help the symptoms of minor sunburns.
Bug Repellent: Bugs seem to dislike tea tree oil. The oil can be used to deter ants, roaches and other pests. Put a few drops of the oil where the pests are coming from. You can also wipe pantries and cupboards with a mixture of water and tea tree oil and this will make the bugs leave. Rubbing the mattress with pure tea tree oil will help deter dust mites. A few drops of oil added directly into a vacuum cleaner bag or canister will help kill dust mites often found in carpeting.
As more and more studies are being done, the list of the benefits of tea tree oil grows even longer.
Enjoying good food is not just the province of those lucky people who do not have diabetes, today there are plenty of excellent diabetic recipes to make this condition more bearable. Controlling your diet can be the key to reducing the risk of diabetes as well as improving your symptoms if you are already affected by this disease people often refer to as "the silent killer". Using approved and regulated diabetic recipes; the task of staying on top of the condition becomes less of a burden.
One of the hardest things to do will be to stick with your diabetic diet to shed those unnecessary pounds as maintaining your weight is extremely important when you're a diabetic. Eating food from the four main food groups and sticking to your diabetic diet will help you with your diabetes.
For patients, having a healthy diabetic diet plan means eating in a way that reduces the risk for complications that are commonly associated with their condition, including heart disease and stroke. A diabetic diet using specially formulated diabetic recipes which are essentially a healthy, low-fat, balanced eating plan that helps the patient feel better and more energetic, and achieve some control over the symptoms like fatigue, thirst, blurred vision.
A healthy diabetic menu is concerned with eating a balanced diet of non-fat dairy foods, lean meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, fruit, vegetables and beans. The low-carb diabetic dietary plans are a little different and only certain vegetables are allowed such as kidney beans, carrots and avocados as well as fish, meat, poultry, cheese and eggs. Diabetic recipes should include foods that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol, such as skinless poultry, fresh fruit, and vegetables as previously mentioned.
Weighing your food when you're on a diabetic diet is as important as the foods you consume, so that you receive the correct amount of calories. Using the food labels in the supermarkets will also become second nature when you are preparing your diabetic recipes as they contain useful information, usually based on a diet of 2,000 calories per day.
For example, your breakfast on 2,000 calorie diabetic diet plan might consist of something like this, a cup of skimmed milk or sugar free yoghurt, a couple of slices of bread, rice cakes or pasta if you prefer, an egg prepared your favorite way and a serving of fruit. However, if a lower 1,800 calorie per day has been advised for your diabetic diet plan then your diabetic recipes book might suggest something like a cup of skimmed milk, a tablespoon of cheese, a couple of slices of bread and a serving of fruit.
In the afternoon a snack might consist of a half cup of tea or coffee with artificial sweeteners a couple of crackers and some more fruit. Knowledge of your diabetic diet will mean that even small meals like this can be varied so that instead of tea or coffee, sugar free yoghurt or a cup of fat free milk could be a suitable replacement. There is no reason for you to believe that you can no longer enjoy your food if you're restricted to a diabetic diet, because diabetic recipes are designed to have plenty of variety.
Uh oh. Chemistry - the word itself can make one's eyes glaze over. But wait, this is 'essential oil chemistry'. MUCH more fun! While even beginning aromatherapy students are put off by the mere mention of the subject, they eventually realize the importance of understanding at least the fundamentals. The basics of essential oil chemistry will help you appreciate what gives a fine oil its unique aroma, help you more carefully discern a good oil from a second-rate one, and can improve your practice of using essential oils therapeutically. The greatest benefits of essential oils lies in their potential for true medicinal applications, where their antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are effectively utilized. And it is the understanding of their chemistry that enables the practitioner to select the right oils and use them most appropriately. Convinced? Well here's a primer to get you started...
So what is it that makes an essential oil different than every other oil we're familiar with? They don't feel the same, they don't act the same, and they certainly don't smell the same. Essential oils and the so-called 'fixed' oils (you may also know them as carrier or base oils - like Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel, Evening Primrose, etc) are distinctly different in their molecular structure. While both essential and fixed oils share common basic atomic elements of Carbon and Hydrogen, that's really where the similarity ends. Fixed oils are made of triglyceride structures - three long chains of carbon atoms, with hydrogens bonded at various places. The length of the chains and the position and number of hydrogens define the nature of the oil; if hydrogens are bonded to every available location, the oil is 'saturated', for example. One missing hydrogen is 'mono-unsaturated', more than one is 'poly-unsaturated'. The long chains and relative consistency of the molecular structures makes fixed oils 'oily', and does not allow them to evaporate quickly.
Essential oils are 'volatile' oils - oils that DO easily evaporate. Their chains of carbon atoms to which the hydrogens attach are not as long or heavy, and are much more complex. Many essential oil structures are not really chains, but ring, or multi-ringed shapes with diverse sub-units - called 'functional groups' - sticking out in various directions. Like their fixed oil counterparts, essential oils are lipophillic - meaning 'fat liking'. The fat-liking nature of both fixed and essential oils makes them easily absorbed by our bodies. Because of their typically smaller structures however, essential oils are absorbed more rapidly than fixed oils, and can easily penetrate deep into the body. Despite their plant origins, this lipophillic nature of essential oils makes their profound healing action on the human body possible.
The therapeutic action of an essential oil is primarily determined by the functional groups found in the molecules that make up that oil (here, many folks might be responding with "Say what?!?"). An essential oil is actually made up of many liquid chemicals; sometimes more than one hundred distinct chemicals are found in one pure essential oil. Each of these chemicals is formed of a carbon-hydrogen structure with a functional group attached - it is the combination of the base structure AND the attached functional group that makes a single, unique molecule. And MANY of these unique molecules combine to form ONE essential oil.
As you can see, essential oils are really very complex in their chemical nature. There are nearly infinite possibilities of functional group and ring or chain combinations. And ONE essential oil alone can be made up of HUNDREDS of these different molecular arrangements. Don't worry, though! While it sounds complex, one needn't know all the precise chemical details to use essential oils therapeutically. When selecting between varieties of an essential oil, It IS helpful to know that any particularly oil is often composed of one or more primary molecular forms, with many minor or 'trace' constituents, and that ALL these molecules contribute to the oil's aroma and therapeutic action.
The best natural, undiluted, properly distilled essential oils with all the major and minor chemical constituents will have the finest aromas AND the most potent therapeutic action. Many factors in an essential oil's production affect the total number and relative amounts of individual chemicals found in the final product. These include where the plant was grown, soil and climate conditions, time of harvest, distillation equipment, plus the time, temperature and pressure of distillation. This can give you an idea as to why two varieties of the same oil can smell so different: The full, beautiful bouquet of a fine essential oil will contain a myriad of notes, telling you that all natural components are present and in balanced amounts.
To best understand this, we'll examine Lavender essential oil; more than fifty individual molecules have been identified in pure lavender essential oil. The aromatherapist must remember that ALL of these chemicals found in pure and natural lavender oil work together to produce a therapeutic effect. For example, the linalool molecule is antiviral and antibacterial; the linalyl acetate is emotionally calming; other major components including cineol, limonene, pinene and others are all noted for specific biologic and aromatic activity. It is the combined, balanced, synergistic action of these chemicals that make pure, high-quality lavender such a great healer. No one chemical can be singled out and used to give the same profound results as the complete pure essential oil.
What does this mean to the lay-practitioner? That it's important to find a nice smelling lavender oil! Each of the individual chemicals has a distinct smell, talked about in terms of 'notes' within the overall lavender aroma. Some of these are sweet, some citrusy, some are herbaceous, and some can be camphorous. A precise amount of each will create a certain lavender aroma. Some lavenders are more sweet (and therefore more relaxing), others are more herbaceous (and more anti-microbial). Three important points should be noted regarding selecting by aroma: First, there can be significantly different aromas from the same species of plant, even when the essential oils are of the highest quality. You can often use your intuition to select the best variety for your needs (as between the sweeter more relaxing, or the herbaceous more 'medicinal' lavenders). Sedond, some plants (e.g. Rosemary and Thyme) have chemotypes - this specifies a predominant chemical in the essential oil - each being used for a certain therapeutic application. Know which chemotype is best suited to your needs before making a selection. Finally, it is most often the essential oil that smells the most 'true' to you that will be the most beneficial. Your senses can naturally detect what is good for you and what is not, if you're willing to listen to them impartially.
A balanced approach in aromatherapy, as in all of natural medicine, is best. The most effective practitioner will have a well-developed 'internal pendulum' combined with a solid education. Significant variations exist in the quality of essential oils; it is really cost effective to buy the higher grades of oil, as their synergy of expertly distilled chemicals will have the greater therapeutic action. Use your nose, knowledge and intuition to find a source you trust, that delivers consistently high-grade oils for a reasonable cost. Use these same faculties to skillfully select and apply the appropriate oil for each circumstance. Essential oils are complex by nature; at the same time, they have an exceptionally broad scope of therapeutic applications. Hopefully, this little bit of aromatherapy chemistry will enrich your ability to support your own health, and the health of those around you.
About the Author:
The author has made available much information about aromatherapy, such as using basil and other essential oils.
The advantages of using Hoodia Gordonii have become much better knownin recent years. It has been shown to assist substantially in efforts to lose weight.
Hoodia has better health benefits and is quite widely accepted. There are no known side effects associated with products derived from pure Hoodia, and it does not contain stimulants.
Remember that the use of Hoodia pills to help you lose weight does not mean you are on a diet. Its purpose is to keep your appetite suppressed. It will help you feel less hungry while keeping your energy levels high.
As of yet, there have been no reported adverse side effects of Hoodia Gordonii. As a matter of fact it has been included in the African food chain for generations. Some of the world's eldest tribes in Africa have been consuming raw Hoodia for thousands of years.
The local tribes who have consistently used Hoodia generation after generation confirm that there are no side effects to be concerned about. As a result, the South African government classifies Hoodia Gordonii as a food, not a medicine.
The only proven side effect associated with the consumption of Hoodia Gordonii is that it causes the brain to believe that it is "full" even if one has not consumed food. This can be an issue when energy and power is needed if one participates in demanding activities.
There is a great concern that those with eating disorders will want to use Hoodia for rapid weight loss, thus depriving themselves of necessary nutrients.
Product disclaimers for Hoodia state that the product, "Not be used by children, pregnant women, or women who are nursing. It is not intended for those who have an eating disorder or for those who do not need to lose weight.
Aromatherapy body spray is easy to make thus the scent dispersed by essential oils will uplift your mood. It is a wonderful way to start your day. You could spray it on your body and you off to go.
Another uses from using this body spray is for hydration and rejuvenation at any time especially during work time to positively enhance your mood and stimulate your senses.
Before you make your own body spray ,first select what essential oils you want to use.
Choose lavender body spray is good for helping sleep problems. It can produce a calming effect on the body.
Rose and Ylang ylang body spray : Has an excellent aphrodisiac effect. Good to lifts up your romance's mood.
Lemongrass body spray is good for relieves nerves and ease stress. It also good for insect repellent.
Sweet orange body spray : Its fragrance works well in any season. In summer, it induces a beautifully fresh and light mood. In winter, Its scent enhances the festive atmosphere.
Peppermint and Ginger body spray is very excellent for mental stimulation, muscle soreness, headaches, congestion and sinus problems.
How to make aromatherapy body spray ?
You need :
A cup of water, 4 drops of essential oils and A mister bottle
Just fill the mister bottle with a total of 4 drops of essential oils. Add a cup of water. Shake well before use.
If you prefer to use witch hazel. You can use this recipes
A total of 10 drops of essential oil, 1 tablespoon witch hazel and 8 oz. of distilled water
This wonderful body spray is designed to keep both men and women smelling really fresh. Simply spray it all over (except for eyes) after a bath or shower to help enhance your mood.
About the Author:
Liani Widjaja is the owner of Aromatherapy-at-Home.com. A website about aromatherapy and essential oils' guide. By knowing which the best essential oils for you, you will be able to get a maximum benefit of aromatherapy. Visit her site right now.
Like most other diseases, Acid Reflux disease also has some surgical solutions when all else fails.
This surgery is normally conducted only after other treatments have proven themselves to be ineffective, such as the use of prescription medicines. Surgery is also commonly performed on patients that are experiencing high levels of pain and discomfort or who bleed severely.
The standard surgical procedure that is done for Acid Reflux sufferers is called the Nissen fundoplication.
Originally, the Nissen fundoplication was a very lengthy and serious procedure that resulted in a post surgery stay at the hospital of at least one week, not to mention a ten inch scar.
In the early days of this surgery, patients often developed worsening symptoms of acid reflux and had difficulty swallowing.
Laparoscopic surgery has made great progress technologically in the past twenty-five years. Patients are now chosen for surgery in a more efficient manner, using a pathological diagnostic test. Most problems that doctors originally had to deal with when performing this surgery have been resolved.
The surgery can be compared to what you might do to prevent the contents of a room from being washed away by a typhoon or flash flood.
The Lower Esophageal Sphincter is like a door between the esophagus and the stomach. It is this sphincter muscle that is made stronger by surgery. Surrounding the sphincter with permanently attached stomach tissue provides the necessary support that the muscle needs to function properly.
Next, the hiatal hernia, or the stomach portion protruding upwards from below the diaphragm is pushed back down into place. The Hiatal hernia sac is pulled below the diaphragm and firmly attached and stitched there.. The strengthening of the Esophageal sphincter, and fixing of any possible hiatal hernia serves to reduce the overall abdominal pressure. All this essentially provides a great defense against possible backflows of gastric juice-laden food mixtures.
The esophageal passage must sometimes be cared for because of ulceration and scarring. Surgery of this sort boasts a success rate of 95% and keeps the patient from needing to take other medications to alleviate the once terrible pain of acid reflux.
About the Author:
Looking for the most effective acid reflux cure? You'll find lots of helpful information on the Reflux Renegade website. Visit http://www.refluxrenegade.com for plenty of helpful tips and information.
There are a lot of people who want to know how to cure toenail fungus the natural way. Why? Nail fungus affects about 35 million people in the United States alone. It is a very common problem and there are several treatments available for it.
Unfortunately, some treatments like oral anti-fungal prescription medication can be harmful. Although it is effective, it can exhibit possible adverse side effects that can cause complication to the heart and liver, among others. In extreme cases, it could even cause death. The Food and Drug Administration has already issued out a public health advisory regarding two famous oral prescription medication and its possible side effects.
Also, prescription treatment could interfere or interact with other prescription medications that you may be taking. Another downside is that it can be very expensive, with some treatments costing 1500 dollars for a full course of treatment, or about a hundred dollars per week.
Go Natural - Because of this, more people are turning to natural solutions. There are home remedies that promise to treat toenail fungus. Solutions like vinegar, bleach, mouthwash, tea tree and oregano essential oils are being used as home remedies. However, none of these solutions really work. They are ineffective and you could end up wasting a lot of time, which is enough for the fungus to spread and infect other nails, including your fingernails.
This infection can take time to treat. This is because the toes are more exposed to the dark, damp, and warm environment caused by wearing shoes and socks often. Fungus loves to thrive in this type of environment. Also, the fungus actually lives underneath the nail and is harder to reach, making it more difficult to treat.
However, there is one way you can treat toenail fungus easily. If you apply proper treatment as soon as you detect symptoms of toenail fungus, then the higher chances of getting rid of toenail fungus fast. Just remember to always have a professional diagnose your symptoms so can apply the proper treatment. Treatment varies with the type and severity of infection and professionals can help pinpoint the specific type of fungus and recommend you the suited treatment.
Natural Solutions - Using a topical solution is one answer to how to cure toenail fungus the natural way. It uses all natural essential oils from plants that are known to exhibit antifungal and antibacterial properties. Also, a topical solution contains oils like lavender and jojoba that promote softer and smoother skin. It can be bought over the counter and is very easy to use. Aside from it being very safe to use, it is also very effective. The oils penetrate and go deep down the nail to treat the underlying cause of unsightly nails.
There are of course numerous complications resulting from diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is one that directly effects your vision. It happens because the eye's retina is damaged because of the diabetes. So let's take a closer look, starting with an explanation of what the retina is.
Without getting into too much detail, you can think of the retina as a group of nerves in the back of your eyeball. They are like your eye's camera, giving your brain a look at what you are seeing. What retinopahty does is cause problems with this simple process.
The retina has a series of blood vessels. These blood vessels are sensitive and can be split. The result is that the fluid from those vessels will begin to drip into the compound of the eye. And that's where the problems start.
Most people will start to observe what appears to be an obstruction in their sight. Then scar tissue starts to occur around you eyeball and in it. Finally, the retina detaches or breaks away from where it should be sitting.
The problem with diabetics is that high blood sugar levels can trigger all the damage we just pointed out. But there's a bigger problem. Most people won't have any symptoms or notice any changes until the problem becomes severe. That means that by the time you notice a problem, it may be too late to do anything about it. Regular visits to the eye doctor are a must because he can discover the problem early on, and that makes correcting the problem much easier. Diabetics should go to the eye doctor at least once a year.
And between visits, always be on the lookout for symptoms or any changes in your vision. Things like black or white spots, called floaters, that appear without reason. Weak and blurry vision can also be a sign of diabetic retinopathy. Double vision too can be a sign. Even if these problems seem mild, they need to be taken seriously. And that means getting in touch with your eye doctor immediately.
Often times treatment is not necessary, but if it is, there are several treatments available. These treatments can reduce the amount of vision being lost. They include surgery, prescriptions medication and also laser treatments. Your doctor will discuss all your treatment options with you.
The biggest factor in a successful treatment is to catch diabetic retinopathy early. Make sure yearly visits to an eye doctor are scheduled, that way if treatment is necessary it can be started before the problem gets out of hand.
About the Author:
If you want to find out additional info about the diabetic testing supplies you should have on hand, and discover diabetic food to help you enjoy tasty meals every day, visit Diabetes-Diabetic-Diet-Plans.com
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication that should be of concern to anyone suffering from diabetes. What happens is that your vision is effected in a number of different ways. That's because diabetes can damage the eye's retina. So first let's look at what the retina is if we want to understand how to prevent retinopathy.
Without getting into too much detail, you can think of the retina as a group of nerves in the back of your eyeball. They are like your eye's camera, giving your brain a look at what you are seeing. What retinopahty does is cause problems with this simple process.
The blood vessels that are in the retina are very sensitive. When they split, the fluid that was in the vessels starts to drip into the eye's compound. And when this happens the problems begin.
Frequently the first noticeable change will be what look like and obstruction in your sight. Scar tissue starts to form in your eyeball and all around it. As it progresses, the retina becomes detached, and no longer sits in the position it should.
The problem with diabetics is that high blood sugar levels can trigger all the damage we just pointed out. But there's a bigger problem. Most people won't have any symptoms or notice any changes until the problem becomes severe. That means that by the time you notice a problem, it may be too late to do anything about it. Regular visits to the eye doctor are a must because he can discover the problem early on, and that makes correcting the problem much easier. Diabetics should go to the eye doctor at least once a year.
And even the earliest symptoms should mean a trip to the eye doctor. Look for any changes in your field of vision. Some people will notice what are called "floaters", black or white spots that happen for what seems like no reason. If your vision seems weaker or blurry you may also have diabetic retinopathy. Double vision is another symptom. If you notice any of these, even in a mild form, you should contact your eye doctor immediately.
Catch it early enough and there are several good treatments available. Options include prescription medications, laser surgery or a more invasive surgery. Discuss each of these options with your doctor to determine the best choice for you.
Remember the key to a successful treatment is to catch any problems early. Schedule yearly (or more frequent) visits to your eye doctor. This will help you discover if you have a problem soon enough to keep your diabetic retinopathy from becoming too severe.
About the Author:
If you want to know additional info about the diabetic testing supplies you need to have in your home, and explore diabetic food to help you enjoy delicious meals every day, visit Diabetes-Diabetic-Diet-Plans.com
While natural gout remedies are an increasingly popular option today, most people still tend to seek gout medicine first to try and rid themselves of inflamed and swollen joints. Medications recommended and prescribed by doctors and other medical specialists are still the main choice to cure ailments, and gout patients follow the same trend. There are several medications designed to lower excess levels of uric acid in your body. In this article, you'll discover 3 gout medications available to you.
Two of the most common kinds of gout medicine you'll encounter are NSAIDs and corticosteroids. They help in lessening the inflammation in the distressed joint. The NSAIDs are taken orally and in high dosage. This will also help in hampering the presence and proliferation of prostaglandin, a substance that contributes to the feeling of severe pain during a gout attack.
If NSAIDs fail, then you could take corticosteroids instead. These also give immediate pain relief through a direct injection into the swollen joint. With this method of injection, the medication can specifically target the afflicted area.
However, one of the negative aspects of this medication is the fact that it cannot be taken on a daily basis or during repetitive attacks. Frequent use of this medication will only weaken your bone cartilage and damage the joints.
If there are instances where these two medications aren't effective, you can turn to a drug called colchicines that can be used for the first 12 hours of the attack. This differs from the other two medications since this can be taken once every hour. This kind of gout medicine has the following side effects: diarrhea, unsettled stomach, and abdominal cramps. Colchicines are considered to be the oldest cure to gout. This has been around for centuries, offering the same relief with that of the other medications.
Gout medicine, like most medications, definitely has its share of side effects. Thus, it is important that you take some time to carefully consider your options. Seeking help from professionals, specialists, and even other gout sufferers with resources will play a salient role in relieving your gout attacks.
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If modern medication doesn't work, you have natural gout treatment you can use to take control over your gout at last. Stop your suffering and get fast relief and freedom from the pain forever with a safe home remedy at http://www.GetGoutRelief.com.
Your head is not really hurting when you feel that you have a headache. Did you know that brain tissues and skull bones don't have the nerve fibers that are sensitive to pain and therefore can't generate the sensation of pain? Then why does your head hurt when you have a migraine?
Migraine headaches have something to do with the blood vessels, that is why they are called vascular headaches. When you are experiencing migraine, your temporal artery is enlarged, which is located just under the skin at your temple. When this happens, it makes the tiny nerve fibers twisted around it to release chemicals.
The chemicals released cause pain, inflammation, and further enlargement of the temporal artery. The greater the swelling, the worse your pain becomes. So why does this artery enlarge to the point of causing severe pain?
The answer may lie in another naturally occurring chemical in the body. Serotonin is one of two major neurotransmitters in the brain that control blood vessel size, among other things. (Norepinephrine is the other one.) Studies done before a migraine show an abnormally high level of serotonin. During the migraine the serotonin level drops to an unusually low level.
While the actual cause of migraines remains a mystery, researchers are looking at a genetic predisposition, since migraine sufferers tend to run in families. They're hoping to find a definitive answer in the near future.
The impact of this unbearable headache is not only felt by the migraine sufferers, but business establishments as well. Studies have shown than around 150 million workdays are lost each year because of migraine headaches. This is equivalent to around $5-7 billion dollars.
The missed work and productivity that's lost from migraines is not just the problem of those who must endure the headaches, it's becoming a significant burden to the general public, through no fault of those living with the constant threat of suffering. Migraine headaches affect 28 million people in this country, more often females, although men suffer them too.
Migraines are often times under diagnosed and often untreated, that is why it becomes persistent. Doctors miss the diagnosis of migraine headaches in more than half the people who have them. Treatments prescribed are often not effective.
One reason why treatments are not effective is that most doctors prescribe pills for the headache. The problem with pills is that migraines usually stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, the one that controls the 'fight or flight' mechanisms in the body.
When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, it postpones the emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine, preventing any absorption into your system. So instead of getting broken down and absorbed, the pills just sit in your stomach.
There is another solution though. The Migraine and Headache Relief program is a simple to use program that's given thousands of migraine sufferers amazing results. It doesn't require the body to be able to absorb or process anything during the stressful time of a migraine attack.
The Migraine and Headache Relief Program only entails several simple to do exercises and only needs a few minutes a day to do. It is effective in reducing and in many cases eliminating the debilitating effects of migraine. Reclaim your life, use the program!
About the Author:
Christian Goodman is a well known Alternative health researcher and the creator of the Natural Health Blog. His latest work is the natural migraine headache treatment, which has now helped thousands of people get relief from their migraine headache naturally.
