Relieving Our Modern Stress Epidemic Using Natural Remedies

Stress is regrettably a common by-product of contemporary life. We can experience stress at work, school, in our relationships, even from peer-pressure. Stress is how our body responds to physical, emotional, mental or social conditions which are affecting us. The conditions may be good ones or bad ones; they may create tension or excitement.

Stress is normally not avoidable and can be due to social conditions, a change in situations, a particular event like a wedding, birth, or job situation, or it may be attributable to health, childbirth, financial situations, or illness.

Stress can show itself in many ways including surfacing as fatigue, headaches, backaches, muscle pain, stiffness in your neck, decreased appetite, memory loss, low self-esteem, a lower than normal sex drive, changes in your sleep patterns, and also shallow breathing. Stress may lead to illnesses including high blood pressure, skin disorders, cancer, obesity and even heart attacks.

It is crucial to learn how to cope with the stress in our lives in order to prevent illnesses which stem from stress. There are numerous natural remedies which can be used to help alleviate the experiences and consequences of stress.

One natural remedy is to take 1 tsp. of valerian rhizome, 1 tsp. of licorice root, 1 tsp. of Siberian ginseng root, and blend these together. Take 1 tsp. of this mixture by mouth every 3 to 4 hours.

Another natural remedy from India is to use Ashwaganda herb. This herb improves your mental and physical performance, relaxes brain waves and helps to cut down stress, especially in persons who work long hours, experience anxiety, reduced sexual drive, or those who experience fatigue.

You can take the herb Ginkgo biloba to help improve your circulation as well as to enhance brain activity.

Licorice Root will help protect you from the negative effects of stress, step-up your energy level and strengthen your immune system.

Taking the above herbs will also help you get better, more restful sleep. It is crucial to get enough rest when contending with stress.

It's also very important to learn how to think and speak in an affirmative and positive manner. When people put themselves down in thought or speech, they actually help create their own stress. Another terrific stress reducer is to take time for yourself by doing something you enjoy or by taking a weekend to do something you have always wanted to do.

Also make use of aromatherapy by using essential oils in a warm bath and going for a long soak (20-30 minutes) in order to relax muscles and release tension.

The essential oil blends below can help during times of stress. When selecting and using oils, be sure to follow all safety precautions and remember that aromatherapy shouldn't be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment.

Blend #1

* 6 drops Clary Sage
* 2 drops Lemon
* 2 drops Lavender

Blend #2

* 4 drops Roman Chamomile
* 4 drops Lavender
* 2 drops Vetiver

Blend #3

* 6 drops Bergamot
* 2 drops Geranium
* 2 drops Frankincense

Blend #4

* 6 drops Grapefruit
* 2 drops Jasmine
* 2 drops Ylang Ylang

Directions:

Select one of the blends shown above. Then, choose which method you'd like to use the blend - in a diffuser, as a bath oil (put 5-10 drops in 1/4 cup of Epsom Salts or Baking Soda and add to bath while water is running), as a massage oil (add blend to 2 Tbsp of Carrier or Pure Vegetable oil), as a perfume (put 1-2 drops on temples and sides of neck), or as an air freshener (add to 1/4 cup distilled water and put into spray bottle - spray where and as needed).

Dee Braun is a Cert. Aromatherapist & Dr. of Reflexology who teaches Aromatherapy, Reflexology & Color/Crystal Therapy at http://www.AlternativeHealingAcademy.com/. Visit the Alternative Healing Academy, which offers home study courses in several natural healing methods. Payment plans are available!

Premenstrual Syndrome - Medical Treaments Versus Natural Aromatherapy and Herbal Remedies

Once you have been diagnosed with PreMenstrual Syndrome (PMS) there should be a discussion between you and your doctor regarding how to best relieve your symptoms. There are several options of care including self-care at home; medical treatments including medications, and alternative care techniques.

All of these options have had success in relieving many PMS symptoms. It is best to experiment with several different methods until you find what works for you, or you may decide on a combination from each of the options.

Medical Treatments:

Your doctor may prescribe medications to bring relief from symptoms of PMS. Some of these may include an anti-inflammatory which can be used to reduce the amount of prostaglandins in a woman's body which, in turn, reduces symptoms such as headaches, breast tenderness and welling - all of which are caused by inflammatory reactions.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as the new type of NSAID with Cox-2 inhibitors which are available by prescription only. These Cox-2 inhibitors do cause as much stomach discomfort or aggravate stomach ulcers like the NSAIDs have. There is always a risk of potentially dangerous side effects when using any prescription medication.

Other medications which may be prescribed include hormones such as Synarel and Lupron, or Danazol or anti-anxiety drugs such as Benzodiazepines and Xanax. Benzodiazepines can be addictive, so discuss the use of this drug thoroughly with your doctor before beginning this treatment. Anti-anxiety and antidepressants are also used in the treatment of PMS as are diuretics.

Self-Care at Home:

There are many home remedies to try which have been successful at relieving symptoms of PMS. Dietary changes to lessen the effects of bloating and water retention can include avoiding foods which contain salt, limiting salt used as seasoning, avoiding candy and other sweets, and avoiding sodas (especially the sugary ones).

Vitamin and mineral supplements have been shown to be effective in reducing several symptoms of PMS. These include taking Vitamin E (300 - 400 IU) per day, calcium (1,200 mg) per day, magnesium (200 mg per day) and Vitamin B6 (50 mg per day) to reduce anxiety and moodiness. You can also find good sources of Vitamin B6 in foods such as dark green, leafy vegetables, seafood such as oysters, meats, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.

Exercise has also proven to be beneficial in relaxing taut muscles with the added benefit of improving your mood. Muscle relaxation techniques such as progressive relaxation and massage therapy can also be beneficial.

A soothing cup of chamomile tea, a soak in a warm tub and a heating pad can also do wonders. Just be careful not to use high heat and don't fall asleep with the heating pad on. It's also important not to use Ben Gay muscle rub along with a heating pad.

Here are several natural remedies using herbs and essential oils which can help naturally alleviate many of the most aggravating symptoms of PMS:

Menstrual Cramps Blend

* 1 ounce Carrier Oil such as sweet Almond
* 15 drops Peppermint
* 10 drops Cypress
* 5 drops Lavender

Directions:

Mix oils well in a clean, dark-colored glass container. Gently message a small amount into the abdominal area.

PMS Bath

* 3 d. Lavender oil
* 3 d. Clary Sage oil.

Add to 1/4 C epsom salts or baking soda; add to bath with water running; soak 15-20 mins.

Tea for Bloating

Ingredients:

* 1 cup boiled water
* 1 tablespoon ground Cinnamon

Directions:

Combine ingredients and drink while still warm. You can sweeten with a little honey.

PMS Symptoms Blend

Fennel can help with those horrible menstrual cramps. And....it has been shown to reduce the emotional impact of PMS that leaves us apathetic, tired & listless. Fortunately, Aromatherapy offers a safe, natural and effective solution for a wide variety of PMS symptoms with the following blend.

Ingredients:

* 8 drops Chamomile
* 7 drops Clary Sage
* 7 drops Fennel
* 2 tablespoons Carrier Oil

Massage the blend in a V pattern up from the vaginal area, over the lower abdomen & hips, back towards the buttock and end right at the V above the butt. The research on this suggests that to gain the greatest benefit you should massage every day of the month. It takes between two and three months of continual use to notice a substantial effect.

Another PMS Bath

* Grapefruit 4 drops
* Clary Sage 4 drops
* Ylang-Ylang 4 drops
* Geranium 3 drops
* Massage oil 1 teaspoons (5 ml)

Swirl mixture in bath to disperse oil evenly. Relax & enjoy for at least 30 minutes. (This Recipe is From "500 Formulas for Aromatherapy" by Carol & David Schiller)

Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist and natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Mom's Blog at http://www.Moms-Blog.com/ where you'll find articles and information on natural ways of improving the health of yourself, your family and your childrens health.

Colon Cleanser - Main Ways of Cleaning the Colon

The colon plays a major role in the re-absorption of nutrients and water and the expulsion of toxics through regular bowel movement. Various things could happen and therefore impact on normal functionalities of the colon. Take for instance a case where the movement of bowel is affected, the victim is likely to experience several problems such as constipation, hemorrhoids, ulcerative colitis and colon cancer. Some of the symptoms of accumulated toxins include headaches, bad breath, allergic reactions, PMS, fatigue, depression, irritability, bloating and frequent infections.

Main Ways Of Cleaning The Colon

Colon Hydrotherapy (also know as colonic irrigation)

Colon hydrotherapy utilizes enemas to inject water, sometimes mixed with herbs, or other liquids into the colon using special equipment. This colon cleansing method removes feces, sometimes mixed with parasites, from the walls of the colon.

Enemas

An enema is the procedure of introducing liquids into the rectum and colon via the anus. Enema in itself is not a colon cleansing technique but a medical procedure that can be employed in a host of areas including colonic irrigation described above.

Herbal Colon Cleansing Supplements

There exist a large number of herbal supplements that are useful in colon cleansing. However, it is important to be aware of product that purport to be herbal but are otherwise. A large number of manufacturers know "herbal" sells and are labeling everything as herbal. Herbal supplements are either administered orally or introduced into the colon through the anus through enema (this procedure is described above).In enema water mixed with herbal supplements is introduced into the colon using an enema kit.

Laxatives

Laxatives are another common method of cleansing the colon. Several over the counter laxatives exist. However, there are natural alternatives too. Foods rich in fibers are regarded as laxative and apart from cleaning the colon; they can be used to stop constipation.

Laxatives induce bowel movements or loosen the stool. Most often, they are taken to treat the colon for rectal and bowel examinations. However, high doses of laxatives can cause diarrhea. It is therefore important one seek the advice of a qualified doctor before taking them. Laxatives work by hastening the elimination of undigested remains of food in the large intestine and colon.

Some laxatives have different types of active ingredient that produce a combination of the effects mentioned.

Oxygen-based Cleansers

Oxygen-based colon cleansers are very popular today. They consist of stabilized oxygen that is freely released upon landing in the stomach. The oxygen feeds the friendly bacteria with the oxygen needed to create a stable bowel environment. The oxygen also oxidizes and cleans the entire bowel, relieving constipation and compaction. When oxygen based colon cleansers are taken, the level of ORS (Oxygen Reactive Species) is increased, which causes a stimulation of lymphocytes to produce T-cells. This process promotes a strengthened immune system.

Among the colon cleansing methods discussed above, it will depend on your preference and amount of money you are willing to spend to clean your colon. The important fact is that you need to have a clean colon.

Learn more about my recommended Colon Cleansing Products at: http://www.coloncleansepage.com/product-reviews/

The Medicinal Uses Of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

Honestly, natural apple cider vinegar is one of nature's own, true miracle health elixirs. The long history of its use demonstrates, rather clearly, that using vinegar was once highly revered as a practical medical application long before Johnny Appleseed graced North America by planting apple trees.

The healing powers of vinegar has been traced back as far as 3000 BC, Hippocrates, Babylonia, and to 15th century England as a means to ward off dangerous and infectious diseases, to keep one's general health fit and strong, and used as a simple antiseptic/disinfectant.

When deciding to use ACV for medicinal purposes, be sure to select only a raw, non-distilled vinegar. You may be able to find this type of vinegar in your regular grocery store. But more likely than not, you will probably need to look for it at a local health food store.

Clear distilled vinegar is easy to find in any food store and is relatively inexpensive. This type of vinegar is great for regular household cleaning chores, but it is not so wonderful for your internal health. Non-distilled vinegars are definitely going to be more expensive and nutritionally potent than the distilled varieties, but isn't your health worth the price difference? Plus, you are going to have the satisfaction of knowing that you have chosen the right mixture that will work hard to enhance your health.

Most commercial brands (whether white or brown) have been pasteurized, filtered, and refined or distilled in order to make the final product look more attractive to please the consumer. The manufacturers are only giving the consumer what they apparently seem to want. Unfortunately, unbeknown to the average consumer, this extra processing actually destroys much of the natural health restorative properties of the end product.

Look for ACVs that have been cold pressed and made from whole, organically grown apples, with no added chemical preservatives, and in which the 'mother' of vinegar liquid has been retained. This 'mother' substance, as it is lovingly known, is the gelatinous liqueur that is naturally formed during the final fermentation process.

This milky, cloudy, and stringy looking stuff at the bottom of the container is what contains the healthiest part of the mixture. It also lets you know that the important vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and naturally occurring good bacteria have not been compromised due to over processing, filtration, or excessive heating. Before consuming, shake the the bottle gently to thoroughly distribute all of the nutrients, pour, and serve.

An energy boosting way to drink ACV, without it taking your breath away, is to mix about 2 teaspoons with an equal amount of raw honey in a small glass of warm water. Stir to dissolve the honey and drink one to three times a day. You can sip on this drink during a meal for extra digestive power, or you can drink this ahead of a meal. Refrain from drinking to much water or any other beverage during your meal, and for up to an hour afterward. Give your gastric stomach juices enough time to fully break down the food you just ate, on its own, without weakening their effects with added liquids.

Why use apple cider vinegar? Because, when it is used medicinally it helps the body rid itself of harmful toxins, has wonderful disinfecting properties as a natural bad germ fighter, and is a very biodegradable substance that does not pollute the environment.

With regular and continued use, this wonderful liquid helps restore and balance the body's pH, taking it from acidic to neutral in a short amount of time. Normally, it would be hard to believe that such an acidic substance could normalize, or lower our pH so easily. As far as I know, this only applies to vinegar, as our digestive system will naturally convert it to an alkaline based substance.

An acidic internal system is directly caused from eating excessive amounts of meat, grains, and sugar by eating and drinking too many processed foods and beverages. This will provide an invitation, internally, for unwanted illness or disease to set up house. Otherwise, a neutral or more alkaline system will promote an enhanced emotional and physical health state.

Raw, ACV contains over 40 different naturally occurring substances from vitamins and minerals, to enzymes and beneficial bacteria. It has been used for generations to treat a variety of different human health conditions such as,
1.arthritis
2.high blood pressure
3.all types of skin problems
4.chronic fatigue and insomnia
5.heartburn and other digestive abnormalities
6.high cholesterol and blood sugar
7.maintaining normal body weight

This is not exhaustive list, by far, of common health maladies that ACV has been known to eliminate. As with any new diet addition, your expectations may be too high in the healing effects of vinegar. Keep in mind that it is not to be considered a panacea for all ill health evils.

Although many individuals have achieved a more improved physical state by using vinegar, without modifying their daily dietary habits, serious diet modifications need to be considered in some hard-core cases. Doing so would further enhance a partial response when combined with a healthier diet.

This is, especially, a key factor when using vinegar for serious weight loss. You simply must reduce or eliminate your consumption of over processed foods, eat more raw plant foods, eat smaller meals more often, and step up your effort in getting regular and moderate physical exertion. These strategies combined with ACV will take you a long way in seeing the results you are hoping for, and quicker. It is possible to lose up to one to three pounds a week.

Remember too...that diet modifications include increasing daily liquid intake. Apple cider vinegar works best when adequate liquids are supplied to help carry out the toxins we ingest and are exposed to every day.

Not just any liquids, but read this to mean WATER exclusively. Start reducing the amounts of other beverages you may be drinking instead, such as soft drinks, coffee, tea, fruit juices, and alcohol. Moderation, in occasionally consuming these, is absolutely crucial in maintaining a healthy body weight (even if your underweight), or if you are trying to lose weight.

When used as a flavor seasoning, or drinking as a healthy tonic, ACV could have your current health issue becoming a thing of the past. As with any type of natural or conventional health treatment, be realistic. Expect a reasonable amount of time for vinegar to take affect. This may be only a few days, a week, or it could be longer. If you are really committed to giving it a real chance, you may look forward to a much different health reality sooner than you think

Brenda Skidmore has spent the five years actively researching natural health care alternatives. It is her sincere desire to empower others by sharing this important information. To improve your health today visit http://www.mywater4life.com

Insomnia - How Simple Aromatherapy Can Help Banish Those Seemingly Endless Sleepless Nights

The main function of aromatherapy is to produce an odor which induces an effect on the body. Human senses such as olfaction - the sense of smell - work on subconscious, as well as physical levels.

Smell can affect the way human beings react to various stimuli, stressors and organisms on emotional and mental levels as well as affecting bodily processes and reactions. Various smells can stimulate the brain and evoke feelings which are then associated with that smell.

Aromatherapy is typically used for mental and emotional well-being in addition to being beneficial for many physical ailments and complaints. Using aromatherapy for relaxation and insomnia can be a very effective and natural way to help the mind and body relax so it can be rejuvenated with quality and restful sleep. Some of the aromatherapy essential oils we recommend for this purpose are Chamomile, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Neroli, Ylang-ylang, and Marjoram.

There are several ways you can enjoy the smells and therapeutic effects of aromatherapy including putting a few drops in your bath water, using oils in a massage, diffusing a blend with a cold-air essential oil diffuser, wearing as a perfume, or sprinkling a few drops on your pillow at night. If you research aromatherapy for its benefits of treating insomnia there will be many recipes you can easily make and which are very effective.

Aromatherapy candles are also available in various scents and are a great added touch but likely don't release enough odor molecules to help in battling something as stubborn as insomnia. Aromatherapy is a natural way to fight insomnia and has been used for centuries with great success.

In conjunction with aromatherapy, meditation and yoga work very well as ways to relax and center your mind and body - allowing you to release worries and stressors which may be causing you to lose precious sleep. In addition to helping insomnia these practices will help lead you into a more healthy lifestyle.

Here are several blends to try on those restless nights:

Insomnia- Nightmares Wake You

* Lavender 15 drops
* Roman Chamomile 5 drops
* Mandarin 10 drops

Insomnia- Noise Wakes You

* Lavender 10 drops
* Lemon 15 drops
* Vetiver 5 drops

Insomnia-Restlessness

* Vetiver 10 drops
* Clary Sage 10 drops
* Lemon 10 drops

Insomnia-Fitfulness

* Marjoram 5 drops
* Lavender 15 drops
* Lemon 10 drops

Insomnia-Anxiety

* Chamomile Roman 10 drops
* Sandalwood 15 drops
* Lemon 5 drops

Insomnia-Worry

* Cistus 5 drops
* Lavender 15 drops

Insomnia-Exhaustion

* Valerian 5 drops
* Lemon 10 drops
* Mandarin 10 drops

Prepare the blend of your choice and follow usage instructions below.

How to use:

* Add up to 10 drops of a blend in a warm bath
* Use in a Diffuser
* Add blend to 1 oz. Carrier Oil and use for massage
* Place 1-2 drops on a cotton ball and place under your pillow

Recipes are from the Fragrant Mind by Valerie Ann Worwood

Dee Braun is a Cert. Aromatherapist & Dr. of Reflexology who teaches Aromatherapy, Reflexology & Color/Crystal Therapy at http://www.AlternativeHealingAcademy.com/
Visit the Alternative Healing Academy, which offers home study courses in several natural healing methods. Payment plans are available!