Monday, August 31, 2009

Baby Sterilizer Help - How To Choose The Device That's Right For You

By Danny Crispin

Baby milk (human or formula) is full of energy and nutrients. It therefore represents the perfect medium for bacteria to grow in and reproduce. Unless you take steps to kill off these bugs you could make your baby seriously ill. It is therefore important to have access to a reliable baby sterilizer.

There are a wide variety of makes and models of baby sterilizers available on the market. However, they can be broadly subdivided into three types - steam sterilizers, microwaveable sterilizers and chemical sterilizers. The choice of product will vary from family to family, but each product has it's own advantages and disadvantages.

Electric steam sterilizers include their own heating element. If you have access to an electric socket and a little tap water then you are good to go. Some are a little bulky. They are also quite pricey in comparison to the alternatives.

Microwaveable sterilizers are a great option if you are prepared to accept the obvious limitation of requiring access to a microwave. Most modern homes now have one but just bear in mind the possible problems if you are using the microwave for cooking or are visiting a friend without one. Just add some water, set the microwave running for the required time and you're good to go.

If you spend a lot of time away from home or want the freedom to be able to sterilize your bottles without access to electricity or a microwave then a chemical sterilizer is the obvious choice. However, you need to consider whether you want to risk exposing your baby to synthetic chemicals.

As with purchasing any electrical product it is sometimes more sensible to go for a well known brand. These may be more reliable and you get access to better help and support. Another variable to consider is the capacity of device that you need. For example, if you normally breast feed your baby and use the bottle infrequently then a small device will probably fulfill your requirements.

Often devices will come with bottles. Some of the bottles are highly advanced with teats and functionality to mimic the human breast. This is particularly helpful if you switch between the breast and the bottle. Some will even come with color coded teats to enable you to quickly identify the teat that's appropriate for you baby or the formula milk that you are using.

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Colon Cancer Basics

By Eve Benton

As dreadful as Colon Cancer is, the more informed everyone is about it, the better chances they have of surviving it. To acquaint yourself with the topic of Colon Cancer, it's a wise thing to first know more about the Colon itself. What do we refer to as the Colon and where can it be found?

It's not accurate to say the Colon is part of the large intestine. Instead, the colon is really the large intestine.

The Colon is between 5 to 6 feet long and it's in charge of transporting waste down to the rectum. While moving the waste, it absorbs water and loads of extra dangerous materials.

Colon cancer seems to stat off from mushroom-looking polyps which take form in the appendix, colon and the rectum. Although these polyps are, more often than not, harmless, they can become cancerous in due course. Colonoscopy is key in the test and screening of Colon Cancer.

More often than not, we give little thought to the suggestion that we may be setting ourselves up for colon cancer; but it could be likely. It's not uncommon to see people who drink very little water daily and eat just about any food, without knowing they are putting themselves at risk of colon cancer. It's not wise to ignore learning about colon cancer because you could learn something that can help someone you know that has it.

Those that eat good food and engage in lots of exercises have better chances of avoiding colon cancer than those who do not. A good way of staying away from colon cancer is to NOT consume those foods which have lots of fat but low fiber.

More so, you have a high likelihood to prevent cancer if you engage in the healthy habit of eating fruits and vegetables regularly; they contain antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and minerals that aid in fighting cancer. More so, habitually cleansing the colon through colon cleansing can help.

Imaging technology plays an important role in colon cancer diagnosis and treatment. Nuclear medicine pet ct technology is the leading molecular imaging tool right now for colon cancer.

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Finding The Right Answers To Your Critical Nursing Home Questions

By Sean Patrick

Before placing a loved one into an assisted living or nursing home facility, you'll want to be well informed about the capabilities, comfort, safety, and overall quality of care offered by the facilities available in your area.

To ensure that you are as knowledgeable as possible, it is crucial to ask nursing home questions for which you need thoughtful (and complete) answers.

Asking the right folks about nursing homes is critical to finding the answers you need - just because you made a few visits to local facilities and asked the staff members questions doesn't mean that you've done enough due diligence to know everything you need to know - you have to go outside of the actual facilities as workers tend to have biased views.

In addition to the information nursing home staff members offer, consider a few alternative sources:

-Doctors in the area: ask your own doctor or a friend's doctor any questions you may have. These can actually provide for great resources.

-Social networks: your loved ones friends and extended family may well be in the know about nursing home choices, good and bad. If they aren't, they may be able to put you in touch with someone who will give you unbiased answers.

-BBB: the Better Business Bureau is always a great resource to figure out what facilities in your area have had complains in the past.

-Watch Organizations: since the Internet has made a splash there are many watchdog organizations out there - including the Abuse Blog (nursinghomesabuseblog.com). Feel free to Google and look at the top results - chances are you can interact with these blogs and forums and get the right answers you need.

-Local police: a great place to get answers about incidents involving residents or staff at prospective senior care firms in your area.

While researching thorough answers for the nursing home questions you may have, these 5 outlets will be a great place to start. Make sure you do the proper due diligence needed to ensure the safety and comfort for you or your loved one.

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Home Remedies For Psoriasis

By Kelly Limpert

When you want to reduce your pain and symptoms, using a home remedy for psoriasis can be both fast and safe. Of course, you'll always want to talk with your doctor about your treatment options, but these home remedies can be used no matter what medication you are on. These are not meant as a cure, but if you want to lessen the severity of your psoriasis you'll want to eat a healthy diet, exercise and try to reduce stress.

One home remedy for psoriasis is a psoriasis diet. There isn't one overall diet for everyone who has psoriasis, but the foods that you eat can affect your condition. The number one thing to remember is to eat healthy. Cut back on meat and dairy--two known triggers--and increase the number of vegetables in your diet. Include either fish or flax in your diet for Omega 3 and Omega 6. These essential fatty acids are vital in the fight against psoriasis. Supplement your diet with fish oil or flax seed oil. Keep a food diary so you'll know which foods help or hurt your condition.

There are many items in your kitchen that can relieve your psoriasis symptoms when they are applied to the skin. One of the most popular home remedy for psoriasis is apple cider vinegar. Mix a cup of this into a gallon of water. Soak a cloth in the apple cider vinegar mixture and place the cloth on the psoriasis patches. You can also apply apple cider vinegar directly onto the scalp, leave it for a few hours, and then wash out.

A common cupboard item that can help is olive oil. Massage warm olive oil on your scalp or add it to your bath water. If you are out of olive oil, a cup of vegetable oil can be added to a bath in its place.

While doctor treatment is important, adding a home remedy for psoriasis can make all the difference. Research has shown that aloe can be applied straight onto psoriasis plaques to help clear them. Use aloe straight from a plant or buy pure aloe vera gel from a store.

You can obtain relief from itching by adding 1 and one-half cups of baking soda to 3 gallons of warm water. Use a washcloth to apply the solution directly to the affected area and keep it on for a short while.

Stress can worsen psoriasis. Use breathing exercises, take up yoga, or meditate to lessen your stress and strengthen your immune system.

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How Do You Stop Smoking?

By April Kerr

We all know the dangers of smoking and most people want to stop but just can't. They might find that even though they can get all kinds of diseases, they just can't seem to quit. This is because it is very addictive, but here are a few ways that you can stop smoking if you want to get healthy again.

The first thing you should do and this is also the easiest, is to find a nicotine gum or use a nicotine patch. These are helpful in curbing the addiction by actually feeding you some small doses of nicotine into your blood stream. This is not as dangerous and is meant as a way to slow down your intake until you eventually don't need them anymore. They are far safer than cigarettes because they don't affect the brain as much or as fast. With smoking a cigarette, the nicotine gets to your brain in about 6 seconds.

If you want to stop smoking it is said that these patches and gum products are the answer. They give you a sort of fix but it is not as dangerous as smoking a cigarette. They can however cause people more problems as they become addicted to the gum instead.

Now, if you are deadly serious about your need to stop smoking, then the cold turkey method is the nest way you may want to adopt. The nicotine patch and gums work, but they do take time. You will find that you may need to quit smoking quickly sometime as it is a requirement for a just application or because your life insurance will not cover you. In these cases, chuck the ciggies in the bin and lock yourself in the bathroom for a few days - just don't forget to eat.

Another way to cure smoking for good is to go to a hypnotherapist. These people are often seen as frauds, but many cigarette smokers actually admit that going under hypnosis cured them. They no longer feel the cravings that they used to and to them smoking is actually not nice any more. This is because the treatments are done in such a way to trick the brain into responding to smoking in a different way.

There are some other methods, but these are the best ones. They can be used as often as you need to and most of the time you will only need them once. When you find the method that works for you the best you should not give up. Keep trying and you will soon notice how energetic you feel. You will also prevent getting certain cancers and other illnesses like emphysema.

The best way to start a stop smoking program is to get someone to do it with you. You can help a family member or friend and this will make it easier for you too.

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Sunday, August 30, 2009

Mobility Scooters UKs Mobility Freedom

By Jake Miles

With an aging population mobility scooters UK wide have become very popular due to better technology and more affordable prices. For many, a mobility scooter provides freedom to get around that other options such as wheelchairs can't provide. Before you purchase a mobility scooter you need to do a little research. Just as different cars suit different people the same applies to mobility scooters. Here are 5 things you need to think about:

How big is it? You need to check you can get it through your front door to wherever you are going to store it and charge it. Do you need to be able to transport it inside another vehicle. What weight load can the scooter actually carry.

The Seat: Firstly is it comfortable. Do you need any particular seat configuration swiveling, ability to move up and down etc. You may find a swiveling seat is easier to get on and off, but it will depend on what your mobility issues are.

How many wheels do you need: While this may seem an odd thing to think about it is quite critical. A four wheeler is more stable and can handle some uneven ground. The three wheeler on the other hand is easier to manoeuvre but it is considered much more unstable and may tip over in some circumstances.

The battery life: This is important to know so that you can work out how far you can travel on a single charge. Some batteries need regular recharging and for all batteries you should find out what their expected life will be. Knowing what they would cost to replace may also be important to you.

Think about where you want to use your mobility scooter. Riding on the road with mobility scooter UK laws and council regulations will apply. But if it most running will be on flat ground to and from the shopping centre your needs will be different than if you have to maneuver up and down steeper terrain.

With the range of mobility scooters UK wide there will be an option available that suits your lifestyle and pocket,

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Antioxidants As Nutrients

By Rita Goldman

The 3 most studied cases of antioxidants are Vitamin A, including the carotenoids, and vitamin C and E. Although there have been many experimental proposals, there has been no firm conclusions drawn, though they have been planted by implication.

The family of vitamin A are insoluble vitamins that contain retinoids and they regulate cell division; therefore it is not beyond the realms of possibility that they may have an effect on the growth of tumors. Carotenoids consume single oxygen and therefore act as powerful antioxidants to minimize damage. It has been argued that there function may be regulated by the immune system, and the healthier the immune system is the more that they will work.

Some studies have made that indicated that retinol or Vitamin A helps in protecting against the lung cancer. Recent data has shown a consistent inverse relationship between various carotenoids and which are the precursors of vitamin A, and also high levels of beta carotene.

However Finland has carried out clinical trials and in the initial trial they gave 30,000 male smokers beta carotene and vitamin A or a placebo which is a tablet which contains nothing medicinal, but which the patient being studied believes will have a positive benefit on their health.

This study was repeated and there have been no reduction in the levels of lung and smoking related cancers. However it is extremely hard to accurately interpret data from studies that involve smokers because the act of smoking itself is a confounding variable and increases the risk of cancer. Other studies have found that an increased level of any single antioxidant is not desirable and two studies have linked an increase risk of colon cancer with high levels of beta carotene in humans.

The Nurses Health study in America found a 20% rise in breast cancer rates between the highest and lowest levels of Vitamin A and carotenoids. These figures were improved greatly when the women with lower instances of Vitamin A were given supplements. However there were no differences when the same supplements were tried against prostate and stomach cancers. There are positive connections between the antioxidant properties of vitamin C especially when taken in conjunction with vitamin A. Overall, the results in studies linking vitamin A and cancer are inconclusive, but they did achieve better results with smokers so there appears to be a link between the levels of vitamin A and smokers.

What is important is that all of these experiments linking vitamins and cancer prevention were looking at vitamins as part of the whole diet, it clearly shows that when the results were tried to be replicated with single foods that in fact there was an adverse affect.

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Cat's Claw Extract Supplement: Take That Natural Approach

By Nick Garcon

Cat's Claw is a tropical vine that grows in rainforest and jungle areas in South America and Asia. Some cultures refer to the plant as the "Sacred Herb of the Rain Forest". This vine gets its name from the small thorns at the base of the leaves, which looks like a cat's claw. These claws enable the vine to attach itself around trees climbing to a heights up to 100 feet.

Rendered into liquid form, however, extracts of cat's claw have been found to have potent adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, and these are therefore used by herbal therapists to tackle a wide variety of common ailments. The anti-inflammatory qualities of the herb indicate potential benefits in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism and bursitis; as well as digestive problems and ulcers, whilst as an adaptogen and anti-oxidant cat's claw is believed to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure and cholesterol and even help in the fight against cancer.

Current studies show it may have positive effects on, and can boost the body's immune system. With recent fear of HIV, studies on cat's claw have started to move quickly.

POAs also help increase the number of white blood cells that make antibodies that kill germs, or B cells. Most importantly, POAs increase the number of T cells, including: Helper T cells, Suppressor T cells, and Killer T cells, which destroy cancer cells. This increased number of T cells is also very important in a disease such as AIDS.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), there are 3000 plant extracts that can kill cancer cells, 70 percent of these plants being found only in the rain forest. The fertile environment provided by the rain forest, due to the constant rain from January to December and the 75-80 degree Fahrenheit temperatures, allows the plants grown to be amazingly rich in alkaloids and other medicinal compounds. When the Ashaninka harvest the plant, they work intelligently to keep it perpetually healthy.

Orthodox medicine, moreover, is always keen to stress, quite correctly, that the mere fact that a remedy is described as "natural" or "herbal" does not mean it is necessarily free of potential side effects. Herbal remedies, after all, often provide the raw materials for the manufacture of conventional drugs, and are highly active biochemical compounds in their own right. They could not be of any benefit if they were not.

But in the case of cat's claw the only contraindications for its use appear to for pregnant women and those suffering from disorders of the immune system. For all others, the herb appears to be completely safe, although very rare cases of minor gastric upsets and headaches have been reported.

In return for harvesting, the Ashaninka are directly paid by the distributors. This arrangement provides the Ashaninka with the ability to make their own decisions as to how to spend this income, allowing them to make improvements in the tribe's water supply and in their living areas. This arrangement also protects the rain forest, which gives us its many nuts, fruits, oil producing, and medicinal plants. Because of all its products, the rain forest hold more economic value than if it was cut down and used for timber or grazing land for cattle. Cats claw can be purchased at any health food store make sure you check the label to ensure you are receiving the Uncaria tomentosa official Cats Claw.

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Three Natural Remedies for Cancer

By Kirsten Whittaker

Researchers believe that even those of us who have a predisposition to some types of cancer might be able to decrease the risks by living a healthy lifestyle by adopting natural remedies for cancer.

A third of the most common cancers in the U.S. might be prevented by adopting healthier habits.

The hard thing is that in todays culture there is more unhealthy choices that are available and more affordable.

According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, AICR there are 3 key things you can do to help yourself boost your odds of staying healthy and cancer free.

1. Eat a predominantly plant based diet " that is mostly fruits, veggies and whole grains, little or no sugary, processed foods (fast foods too) as well as keeping intake of red meat to 18 ounces a week and salt intake to no more than 2.4 grams per day. Alcohol can be enjoyed in moderation, that is one drink a day for women, two drinks per day for men.

2. Keep your weight healthy - BMI between 21 and 23 is considered ideal for improving your odds. The lower end of the BMI range is even better when it comes to cancer risk. Its also important to try and avoid gaining weight as an adult.

3. Exercise frequently - being moderately active for 30 minutes, working up to 60 minutes a day is also key. If your exercise routine is especially rigorous, thirty minutes a day is just fine. Limit how much time you spend in front of the computer or sitting still.

The data is pretty clear that we can make a significant drop in the cancer rate with these three changes, Karen Collins, a registered dietician and nutrition advisor for the AICR explains.

We can prevent about one-third of cancers with these changes. And if you add tobacco prevention, which reduces about 30 percent of cancers, over half of todays cancers could be prevented.

Of course these recommendations are not any guarantee of your future health, but they certainly improve the odds of staying healthier.

The researchers believe that each healthy adaptation helps encourage another one. If you're active you will eat better because better foods give you more energy, and the great feelings that come from exercise will lead to a virtuous circle.

Both behaviors will have weight dropping off, reinforcing your good habits and leaving you looking, and feeling, better than ever.

If you are a little concerned about cancer risk, or you've a family background with the disease, its a good idea to talk to your doctor about genetic counselling.

This process can help you and your family identify who among you might be at risk, and involves taking a very detailed family medical history (disease information about your brothers and sisters, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, children and grandchildren) so that the counsellor can assess your risk and guide you to the options open to you.

You may need a single, hour-long session, or a few, depending on your needs for genetic testing .

Of course even if you, or someone you love, carries a greater genetic risk, that doesn't at all mean you are going to get a disease like cancer. You can do something about it with understanding this article, and introducing some of the natural remedies for cancer, starting now to reduce your overall risk in the future.

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Health Conditions Treated By Dr Rashid Buttar Including Cancer

By Rita Goldman

Dr Rashid Buttar has a constant battle with the North Carolina Medical Board over his clinic and its work. He believes they are trying to keep the court cases running in the hopes of diminishing his money to a state where he cannot afford to run the clinic any longer. There are many doctors who support his work and do whats best for their patients and let them choose the best course of action for them about treatment. But its the institution of modern medicine that is opposed to his practices.

Dr Buttar pushes on to help as many patients as he can, and with a great deal of success. Hes had some great recoveries from cancer and his DVD: Cancer-The Untold Truth is one in a series of discs called "Know Your Options". His philosophies on healing certainly includes prevention is better than cure. But in most cases, people never think about illness until it happens to them, he advocates that dealing with 7 toxicity problems in our bodies, allows the body to function as it should and heal itself.

He maintains that according to conventional medical literature, most cancer is cause by some type of toxicity causing the immune system damage and yet Chemo, Radiation, and surgery do not take care of the immune system. Also, surprisingly, Dr Buttar says many cancer patients actually die from malnutrition, but nothing is really addressed as far as keeping the correct nutrients up to the body during treatments.

He does extensive work with Autistic children, and is having a dramatic effect on their quality of living and that of their families. Other conditions he treats on a regular basis are:

* Hepatitis

* Auto Immune Conditions (myasthenia gravis, MS, etc)

* Cancer

* Stroke

* Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue

* Heart Disease

* Peripheral Vascular Disease

* Hypertension

* Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders

* Alzheimer's Disease

* Degenerative Joint Disease

* Degenerative Joint Disease

Quite an extensive list. The world is certainly a better place for people like Dr Buttar. He not only gives hope but he gives quality of life, that is a gift that just cant be beaten.

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Saturday, August 29, 2009

The deadly force of the H1N1 virus.

By Braniff Watson

If you're following the news daily, more and more people from other parts of the World are being infected with A H1N1 virus or more popularly known are the Swine Flu Virus .

How perilous is it? Is it able to be controlled? Let us try to discover.

In the U. S. alone, there are nine casualties out of 6,552 cases. How much more do we all know about it today? It is assumed that this virus spreads in the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. It means to claim it spreads out through the sneezes and coughs of those people who are sick with the virus.

In the US alone, there are nine casualties out of 6,552 cases. It implies to claim it spreads out thru the sneezes and coughs of those people who are sick with the virus.

We aren't certain how harsh the outbreak re sickness and death till now. Sorrowful to claim, the vaccine for this sickness still has to be uncovered. there are existing anti-viral drugs that may be prescribe by the doctors as an alternative and appears to be performing well. Luckily, this test kit is also being shipped internationally. What are we able to do to avoid getting infected?

Well, keep updated. Keep away from crowded places if feasible and avoid in contact with people coughing and sneezing problem. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze, and then throw the tissue in the trash after using it.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth since germs spread that way fast. At the moment there is not any cause to panic and be alarmed. We shouldn't be scared about it and we treat our day like ordinary. We just need to take more particularly careful and be conscious of what has happened in our area.

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Keep Your Body Young By Finding the Right Nutrition

By Dr. Jerimiah Crossderd

Aside from the acai berry being an unsullied, mouth-watering, organically grown fruit- it is also rich with antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients as well as substances that slow the oxidation damage to our body.

The process of the body's cells consuming oxygen, creates a by-product known as a free radical that can do lots of harm to the body. Antioxidants play a huge role in preventing and repairing the damage done by these free radicals. Adding antioxidants to your daily diet is the best way to protect yourself from these free radicals.

The breaking down of the body's DNA and causes of cancer have been linked to Free radicals. They can wreak havoc on the body when left unchecked. The damage can be so severe to the cells that at times free radicals are responsible for them not working at all.

Free radicals have been the factors behind various types of neurological problems to hormonal damage. Acai fruit has been found when taken on a regular basis to contain enough antioxidants to fight off these dangerous by-products.

Research has shown for years that when antioxidants are taken on a regular basis, the body is able to repair and maintain its cellular strength from recent as well as future attacks from these dangerous free radicals.

Dr. Perricone is the one who introduced the mainstream audience to this amazing fruit by writing a book entitled, the Perricone Promise. In this book he writes that the acai berry is the most perfect food on the planet.

In this book, Dr. Perricone also states that the acai fruit berry has every ingredient needed to look and feel younger. Also, according to Dr. Perricone the fruit contains everything needed to revitalize your health and hinder the process of aging.

The acai fruit is known as a super food that contains every nutrient your body needs in fighting harmful free radicals. If your goal is to improve your overall health, as well as strengthen and maintain your body, then you should look further into the numerous benefits of the this amazing fruit.

The acai berry is the perfect food to improve overall health, reduce aging, and fighting free radicals and could be just the missing supplement your body needs to creating the new you.

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The Downside Of Being Unhealthy

By Lesli Jambers

When the morning comes, do you wake up with a bored outlook in life? At the office, instead of dividing your time chatting with your coworkers and doing your tasks, do you just sit idly in your cubicle doing your assignment in a monotonous manner? Do you hear people whispering Robocop wannabe behind your back? As soon as the bell rings, is getting home straight to your plush bed all you could think about so that another day is over and done with?

The situations mentioned above are the usual things an unhealthy person can experience over a period of time. Do you like the sound of it? Are you willing to go through this road for the rest of your life?

In contrast, a healthy individual sees the brand new day as something worth looking forward to. He will feel passion and excitement the moment he gets out of bed. Because of this, he may whistle a happy tune or sing a popular song as he goes to the shower and drive his way to the office. He will be pumped up to meet the challenging tasks that lie ahead. During break time at the office, he can hop from one table to the other and socialize with his friends. When the day ends, he will still have energy left to do other chores like grocery shopping or playing football at the field. The brainy ones can buy a paperback or two at a bookstore.

Can you see the difference between someone who is unhealthy versus someone who is in the pink of health? You must make the conscious decision to better yourself or else you will have the drawbacks that a sickly person might experience. Read the next few paragraphs to know what they are.

The first disadvantage is it makes you look older than your actual chronological age. It may sound shallow but it is still the truth. This premise applies in the modern society where first impressions really matter, whether you like it or not. How you look counts as much as the data encoded in your resume. If you look pale and stick thin or if you have a blotchy skin and fat body, you might not be idealized as a good employee. This is due to the fact that bosses or human resource officers may think that if you cannot take good care of yourself, then you might also not learn how to take care of your work. They will remedy this problem by hiring someone more pleasant.

Second, you will have a higher chance of getting the dreaded lifestyle diseases like diabetes mellitus, hypertensive urgency and even cancer. A person does not get sick in a snap of a finger. It takes days, weeks and most of the time, years of physical abuse on the body to show its effects. If you are the type who gorges on fatty, salty or excessively sweet food, you are in a high risk group. Your chances will double if you do not get any physical workout like a thirty-minute cardiovascular exercise at least three times a week.

Add to that the secret vices like too much beer drinking and cigarette smoking and you should expect to have a shorter lifespan. You must be crazy to think that all these sounds okay because they really are not.

Third, an unhealthy state will make you grouchy. You will always come up with excuses not to go to the office. This will reflect badly on your work performance and might cause you to lose your job. If you want to avert this disaster, the take the first step to a healthier you by listening to the advice of your doctor.

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Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Be Dealt With If You Know How

By Dawn Enstruthe

Drug and alcohol addiction can destroy many lives. The patient is not the only one affected but also his family, relatives, friends, and all those who care for him. This makes immediate treatment vital once perceived.

A lot of different components are taken into account to treat this chronic disease. It is chronic in the sense that there could be relapse or recurrence after an abstinence of long periods just like diabetes, asthma and hypertension.

For this reason, repeated treatments are sometimes needed before one can actually say safely that he is cured from the addiction. Treatment can happen by developing a program must be developed based on the needs of the patient.

Basically, treatment for drug and alcohol addiction is categorized into two: inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. To determine which type of treatment would be administered, the preferences of the patient and the severity of his condition must be considered.

The inpatient treatment is the usual preference of the patients who already have a history of substance use. The primary advantage of this type of treatment is that it is administered in a highly structured environment. Thus, the patient is given close and constant supervision. Inpatient treatment could last from six to twelve months. Two months from this period may involve very intense treatment. Inpatient treatment concentrates on changing the patient's behavior in order to make it easy for him to fit back into the community.

With the outpatient treatment, the patient will need to visit a center regularly to attend a therapy, both individual and group. The patient will join a class that serves as his support system, e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous. There are several subtypes of treatments involved in the outpatient treatment such as the motivational interviewing, the motivational incentives and the multidimensional Family Therapy.

A medical professional is the one who can best decide which type of treatment is appropriate for the patient suffering from drug or alcohol addiction. The essential thing to remember is that the treatment should be done at once. The addiction could give rise to more serious complications, thus, no time should be wasted when it comes to treatment. Do not wait for the patient to inflict permanent harm or do something which he may regret for the rest of his life. Putting him under treatment shows only that you truly love him and wants him to recover.

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Give Up Smoking For All The People Around You

By April Kerr

If you believe that you smoking habit only affect you, you are most decidedly mistaken. Stop smoking, it also affect those around you! It is not just that it stinks, what about your family? Smoking has been proven to be one of the major causes of lung cancer and heart disease and you have to remember that your family and friends love you.

If you die prematurely from smoking related illness, you will be cheating them of the pleasure of your company for at least another eight years. This is the amount of time it is estimated that smokers die earlier than people who don't smoke.

It is always sad to lose the older generation as old age takes over, but if this is speeded up die to smoking related illness the sadness is even worse. Life and death are natural and the two things we are certain of are death and taxes. By why speed things up, you will only have to pay more taxes (death tax) more quickly?

The consequences of smoking are far reaching, and it is for this reason that non-smokers are so passionate about the subject. This is a highly charged debate, but it is not only about second hand smoke. It impinges on rights this way and that and is of great cause for concern. The research being conducted on long term second hand smoke inhalation, see evidence mounting regarding the bad effects it produces.

If you smoke when you are pregnant, it has been proven that these babies will be low birth weight and that it is also harmful to the child if the mother is breastfeeding. The same babies do not develop properly and are often not as tall as they should be. Evidence has also pointed to the fact that "smoking" babies reading and social adjustment development is not up to par.

If the mother smokes, there is more likelihood of infant mortality, either through miscarriage or at birth. The fact that this is present in 50% more of mothers who are smokers, means that half the infant mortality rates are attributed to smoking! There is good news however, if you are a smoking mother and you stop by the 4th month of gestation, all of this can be significantly turned around.

The infant mortality rate is a real shocker, 50%? Either during childbirth or from miscarriage! But the good news is if you stop smoking by at least the 4th month of pregnancy, these numbers can change quite significantly. So if you are pregnant, why not quit now?

It takes up to five years to biodegrade, and unfortunately, although a smoker would probably not normally litter, they will still throw down a cigarette end in a public place. You might think, what does one butt matter? However the world consumption of cigarettes is 6, 050, 000, 000, 000 per annum. Imagine every one who smokes and the implications to the environment!

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Friday, August 28, 2009

Unmatched Pain Relief from Helichrysum Oil

By Nancy Bluestone

One of the most challenging aspects of finding a good pain reliever is that they so often have significant drawbacks: they can be bad for the liver, they're addictive, they only mask the pain temporarily, or they just don't make you feel good. Well here's a suggestion: for decades, the essential oil from a little yellow flower called Helichrysum italicum has been successfully used in Europe for profound pain relief. It's easy to use, safe, and readily available. Aromatherapy isn't just about aromas! It's really about the branch of natural medicine dealing with the volatile extracts of plants, many of which are complex healing chemicals. And Helichrysum is fast becoming one of the most popular of these oils -- and not because of its aroma, but because of its fast pain relieving action.

A Remarkable Pain Reliever

The pure essential oil steam distilled from the flowers of the Helicrhysum italicum plant is really an absolutely remarkable healing agent. Not just compared to natural medicines, but compared to ALL pain relieving medicines available today. It is safe, effective, has no addiction potential and very easy-to-use. Pain relief reported by most users happens nearly instantly -- certainly within minutes of application. The oil is listed in 'Essential Oil Safety' as non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing. It is regularly prescribed for undiluted application to the skin (where very few other essential oils are). Most conservatively, the oil is sometimes said to be avoided during pregnancy, and by young children -- but this warning is not found in today's most advanced aromatherapy texts. The only other concern is of the oils helpful anticoagulant properties, and is sometimes contraindicated if one is taking blood thinning medication. The amounts absorbed for pain relief are exceptionally small. However, if your situation is questionable, check with a health professional before use, but know that the essential oil is considered to be exceptionally safe for the vast majority of the population.

Pain Relief is in the Chemistry

Essential oils are evaluated using a process called Gas Chromatography. This test tells the us what the oil is made of -- and essential oils are really interesting: they're made of all KINDS of different natural chemicals. Within Helichrysum essential oil, one finds chemicals naturally made by the plant's flowers that 1) reduce inflammation and act as chelators (they can remove unwatned toxins), 2) prevent bruising and blood clots, 3) relax tight muscles and connective tissue, and 4) stimulate cellular regeneration. All in one oil! And it's these components that work together to offer pain relief -- in a big way. Aspirin, for example, is a blood thinner and anti-inflammate. Together, these actions produce its pain relief. Helichrysum is a far more complex natural substance, that not just masks pain, but actually addresses the cellular physiology that is causing it.

Who Can Benefit from Helichrysum?

What sorts of pain can be addressed using this essential oil? Helichrysum is topically applied , and as such works for virtually all pain in the muscular-skeletal system: Muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. All kinds of back pain and neck pain can be helped, as are traumatic injuries such as bruises, sprains and strains. Helichrysum is excellent to have around the house of sports enthusiasts -- one 42 year old hockey player in Boulder, Colorado refers to it as 'the magic oil' for all the beating-up he takes in the rink. Arthritis can be helped too (warming oils like Ginger and Black Pepper can be blended with it, if warming helps the condition). It's safety and efficacy is really remarkable: nearly every form of pain seems to respond positively to Helichrysum essential oil application, whereas the oil has only one commonly-noted warning. As it acts as a blood thinner, those taking blood thinning medication should consult their physician before using, and the oil should never be applied to open wounds as to not interfere with coagulation.

How to Use Helichrysum Essential Oil for the Greatest Benefit

Because Helichrysum used topically, its application is extremely simple. It can be used at any concentration, depending on the condition (most essential oils are diluted prior to use). There are two basic situations which determine whether to dilute the oil or not: whether the injury or pain is chronic or acute. For acute pain and injuries -- those that have JUST occurred -- application at full strength is best. This application should be done as soon as possible if an injury has occurred, as the oil can significantly reduce the potential for bruising and formation of a hematoma. Also, many folks find a drop or two of the oil to be very effective at eliminating pain from burns; it comes in handy in a busy kitchen for sure! Be sure to avoid open wounds, as the oil does have anti-coagulant, blood-thinning properties. Once the wounds are sealed or scab is formed, it is again safe to apply Helichrysum.

In most cases of chronic pain, diluting in another 'carrier' oil -- like Sweet Almond, Jojoba, or even Olive oil -- will 'extend' the Helichrysum, and can help improve its effects over a larger area. If using for the entire mid-back area for example, one can dilute one part Helichrysum into 5 or even 10 parts Jojoba oil and massage-in as frequently as necessary. Making our own formulation is very easy to do. It is recommended to start of with lower dilutions and work your way up only if necessary; this helps you conserve the precious oil by only using as much as required for the desired results. Forty drops of Helicrysum in each ounce of carrier oil will create an approximate 5 percent dilution; eighty drops for a 10 percent dilution; etc.

Mixing With Other Essential Oils

Helichrysum essential oil can be blended with other essential oils in your formula to make a 'custom' recipe. Tea tree can be added to provide antiseptic / antibactieral action. Lavender is an excellent choice if you would like to add a little 'anti-stress' effect. To further enhance the anti-inflammation of the essential oil, Blue Chamomile is an excellent choice (which is most effective used at a low dilution of only 1-2% of the total formula). For a warming effect, Ginger or Black Pepper can be used; these oils will increase circulation and are often included in blends for arthritis support. For even more effective pain relief, Wintergreen essential oil can be used cautiously -- it is actually liquid aspirin, with a potential for overdose. The two oils together can synergize for an extra-strength pain formula for occasional use. Finally, Helichrysum is used in wound and scar healing formulas (again, once the wound is sealed) mixed with Sea Buckthorn Berry, in a base of Rosehip Seed oil (there are many versions of this recipe -- a little searching will help you find the right one for you).

Getting The Right Kind of Oil

All the pain relieving effects discussed here refer specifically to the essential oil from the flowers of the Helichrysum italicum plant. The best of these oils is considered to come from France and the island of Corsica -- these oils have the highest concentration of the muscle relaxing component, and often times the highest concentration of the regenerative components as well. Helichrysum from the Balkans, Croatia and Serbia Montenegro can have higher levels of anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory constituents. ALL these are 'italicum' species however, and will impart their wonderful pain-relieving and healing effects. The oil is not inexpensive! Beware of oils that seem priced too low, as they may not contain pure essential oil, and will not produce the same results. Also, if you are in the care of a medical doctor, be sure to consult them before using Helichrysum essential oil just to be sure there will be no contraindications with your condition or medication. At the same time, a great many people have experienced excellent results with this important essential oil, and if it sounds like it's for you, it's almost certainly worth a try!

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Buy Muira Puama Herb: Detoxify Your Body

By Marcus Harrison

Many of us, perhaps most, will admit to feeling anxious on a regular basis and often even depressed, perhaps due to pressures of work, home life, or any of a multitude of other causes. However most of us are not clinically depressed or anxious, to the point where our lives and health are affected detrimentally.

So we can comfortably conclude that natural herbs for depression fall into the alternative medicine category. Just because herbs for depression are labeled alternative does not mean they aren't effective. This is especially true in cases of mild depression.

Certainly where someone is feeling so anxious or depressed that the medical profession would categorize them as clinically depressed or anxious immediate help should be sought from a professional. However where someone is suffering from a milder form of anxiety then there may be alternatives to the common anti-depressant drugs that often appear to make things worse for less serious cases.

St. John's wort - In the world of herbs for depression St. John's wort has garnered the most attention from researchers. Positive research results seem to support its effectiveness in treating mild depression. It is thought that this natural herb works by reducing the rate at which brain cells reabsorb the neurotransmitter (brain messenger) serotonin, low levels of which have been linked to depression.

The second popular herbal remedy for panic attacks is Kava Kava. This herb, which comes from the South Pacific islands, has proved to be good for both stress and anxiety, as well as social anxiety. However, Kava should not be used more than three times weekly. It is also recommended that you take a full week off after every two weeks of use. Also, Kava is not recommended for children or teenagers, but only for those adults who do not have liver problems.

There are other herbal supplements that have helped some panic attack sufferers. The first of these is called 5-HTP. It is said to reduce anxiety by increasing levels of serotonin. One study has shown that 5-HTP can be helpful in panic attacks and is a good anxiety treatment for people who suffer anxiety and depression. along with restlessness or racing thoughts.

Depression is a complicated condition that is thought to be a product of the way serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine interact with chemicals in the brain. Due to this complex interaction it is not likely that all natural herbs for depression will work for everyone. Nevertheless, there seems to be enough compelling evidence to support at least some of the enthusiasm surrounding herbs for depression.

Additionally, the main advantage for choosing an herbal depression remedy is not so much in the clinical advantages as it is in the area of safety. While not all herbal remedies for depression are safe for everyone, they do have substantially less side effects than current antidepressant medications such as Zoloft; for this reason alone they are an option worth considering.

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Create A New Body By Fighting Free Radicals

By Dr. Jerimiah Crossderd

The acai fruit is a tasteful, fresh, organic fruit that comes with a wealth of antioxidants. In order to prevent damage to the body as well as slow the aging process, antioxidants are needed as part of a regular diet.

When the body's cells consume oxygen, it creates free radicals (or by-products) that can cause a lot of problems to our body. Antioxidants play an important role in preventing, repairing, and removing the damage done by these toxic by-products. Having a daily supplement of antioxidants is the best way known to protect yourself from these harmful free radicals.

When free radicals are left unchecked, they can wreak all kinds of havoc to our bodies. Free radicals are responsible for the breakdown of our DNA as well as causing cancer. These by-products can invade our cells and cause them to break down or even worse stop functioning all together.

Depending on where the damage was created by these toxic radicals, the range of destruction can lead to neurological damage all the way to hormonal problems. The acai berry produces enough antioxidants that when taken as a regular part of your diet can prevent and fight off these free radicals.

Studies have revealed for years that when antioxidants are taken as part of a regular diet, the body has the ability to repair, and maintain resistance to free radicals as well future attacks.

Dr. Perricone is the one who introduced the mainstream audience to this amazing fruit by writing a book entitled, the Perricone Promise. In this book he writes that the acai berry is the most perfect food on the planet.

When it comes to a food that will make you look and feel young, Dr. Perricone says that the acai berry has all of the ingredients needed to accomplish this. Also, when looking for a diet that will revitalize your health and slow the aging process Dr. Perricone says look no further than the acai fruit berry.

The acai fruit is known as a super food that contains every nutrient your body needs in fighting harmful free radicals. If your goal is to improve your overall health, as well as strengthen and maintain your body, then you should look further into the numerous benefits of the this amazing fruit.

So, if you are looking for a diet that will provide energetic health, a reduction in aging, and a free radical fighter then look no further than the acai fruit berry.

A group of scientist in Arkansas found that fruits that are dark purplish in color such as the acai berry fruit, could possibly hold the key to preventing obesity.

Their animal study however, reports that eating the whole fruit containing these pigments seems to be less effective than eating an extract of the berry.

Dr. Prior who is part of this research team stated that a compound found in these purple fruits known as anthocyanins, prevented obesity when tests were conducted on mice fed a diet high in fat.

Anthocyanins are found in grape skins, blueberries, blackberries, acai berry, and other foods. The mice also had other healthful changes in disease-related substances found in the blood.

The mice were fed for two months a high calorie diet on top of drinking water and extracted anthocyanins from acai berry gained less weight and had a lower body fat level than the other mice.

The study found that anthocyanins extract proved to be the only way the effects of weight prevention could be met. When the mice were fed the whole berry, they tended to gain weight.

The article "Whole Berries versus Berry Anthocyanins: Interactions with Dietary Fat Levels in the C57BL/6J Mouse Model of Obesity" can be read in full in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

According to the USDA, Colorful pigments found in the skin of blueberries, strawberries and other fruits and vegetables may help prevent obesity, according to recent animal studies.

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Introducing Dr Rashid Buttar

By Rita Goldman

Dr Rashid Buttar opened the center for Advanced Medicine And Clinical Research in 1996 with the mission statement "not only to extend our patients lives, but to improve the quality of that extended life".

This mission has grew today and impacts on his patients and fellow physicians alike. Offering patients of 'treatment failures' a real chance at recovery has people traveling long distances, and even across the world to seek out his successful healing techniques.

Dr Buttar also sees a valuable part of his work as being the education and training of as many physicians as possible in the practices of clinical medicine. The patient must be dedicated in caring properly for their bodies as instructed to give themselves the best chance of recovery. His methods deal with, and address, these seven toxicities of the human body which trigger the onset of all major disease:

1.) Heavy Metals Toxicity

2.) Persistent Organic Pollutant Toxicity

3.) Opportunistic Toxicity

4.) Food Toxicities

5.) Energetic Toxicities

6.) Psychological / Emotional Toxicities

7.) Spiritual Toxicities.

Dr Buttar's treatments and services work alongside the primary care of traditional medicine. It is not meant to alter mainstream of medical techniques but rather work in conjunction with, and embellish the healing capacity of treatment. Part of his effective treatments includes some 30 forms of intravenous therapies. He has specialized in his healing methods for over 11 years. Dr Buttar pioneered over 20 of these IV therapies, either personally, or with close involvement with other doctors in the development and establishment phases. None of these IV treatments have ever caused harm to a patient, and well over 200,000 have been administered at the clinic.

HBOT or Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has been part of the clinic's treatment methods for the past 3 years. This method aims those undergoing stroke recoveries, and brain injured individuals. Combined with his other therapies this method has been effective in assisting with a number of health problems. Part of the treatment is receiving 100% oxygen intake while pressurized.

Other main methods are electromagnetic frequencies to put the body in a state of equilibrium; a technique developed for the Russian space program. Using Bio feedback gathered from stimulating the nervous system, the body is essentially taught to heal itself.

Dr Buttar has successfully treated and helped patients in many areas of chronic health problems, those 'treatment failures, and difficult to diagnose patients have also been given the opportunity to enjoy life beyond their illness. By treating the body as a whole entity, giving it what it needs to fight against the problems, and remaining dedicated to the powers of healing, Dr Rashid Buttar is proving that there is hope even after being diagnosed with cancer and many other debilitating condition.

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Create A New You by Fighting Free Radicals

By Dr. Jerimiah Crossderd

The acai fruit is a tasteful, fresh, organic fruit that comes with a wealth of antioxidants. In order to prevent damage to the body as well as slow the aging process, antioxidants are needed as part of a regular diet.

When the body's cells consume oxygen, it creates free radicals (or by-products) that can cause a lot of problems to our body. Antioxidants play an important role in preventing, repairing, and removing the damage done by these toxic by-products. Having a daily supplement of antioxidants is the best way known to protect yourself from these harmful free radicals.

The breaking down of the body's DNA and causes of cancer have been linked to Free radicals. They can wreak havoc on the body when left unchecked. The damage can be so severe to the cells that at times free radicals are responsible for them not working at all.

Depending on where the damage was created by these toxic radicals, the range of destruction can lead to neurological damage all the way to hormonal problems. The acai berry produces enough antioxidants that when taken as a regular part of your diet can prevent and fight off these free radicals.

Studies have revealed for years that when antioxidants are taken as part of a regular diet, the body has the ability to repair, and maintain resistance to free radicals as well future attacks.

Dr. Perricone is the one who introduced the mainstream audience to this amazing fruit by writing a book entitled, the Perricone Promise. In this book he writes that the acai berry is the most perfect food on the planet.

When it comes to a food that will make you look and feel young, Dr. Perricone says that the acai berry has all of the ingredients needed to accomplish this. Also, when looking for a diet that will revitalize your health and slow the aging process Dr. Perricone says look no further than the acai fruit berry.

Acai berry is categorized as a super food because it contains all the nutrition your body needs in fighting dangerous by-products in the body like free radicals. Be sure to research this amazing fruit further if you are looking for a diet that will provide your body with the strength needed to fight and remove these harmful toxins.

The acai berry is the perfect food to improve overall health, reduce aging, and fighting free radicals and could be just the missing supplement your body needs to creating the new you.

Fruits like the acai berry that have a natural purple pigment, may assist in preventing obesity as these pigments may hold the key to preventing obesity according to a group of scientist in Arkansas.

The scientist concluded through animal studies that the extract of the fruit is more effective than actually eating the fruit when it comes to weight loss.

According to Mr. Prior and his peers, the compound called anthocyanins that is found in dark colored fruit is shown to prevent obesity in mice that are fed a high calorie diet.

Anthocyanins are found in grape skins, blueberries, blackberries, acai berry, and other foods. The mice also had other healthful changes in disease-related substances found in the blood.

The study reports that researchers discovered mice that are fed a high-fat diet for 8 weeks, drinking water, and taking purified anthocyanins from blueberries and the acai berry gained less weight and had lower body fat levels than a control group.

Feeding the whole berry tended to increase the weight in mice. But, when the mice were fed the anthocyanins extract from the berries, it tended to reduce obesity according to the study.

The article "Whole Berries versus Berry Anthocyanins: Interactions with Dietary Fat Levels in the C57BL/6J Mouse Model of Obesity" can be read in full in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Colorful pigments found in the skin of blueberries, strawberries and other fruits and vegetables may help prevent obesity, according to recent animal studies from the USDA Agricultural Research Service.

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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Buy Muira Puama Herb: Lower Stress

By Nick Garcon

Muira Puama, whose name means "potency wood" in the language of the indigenous tribes of the Amazon, is a shrub that grows wild throughout most of the Amazon basin. Muira Puama, which is one of the primary ingredients in the herbal male enhancement product Extagen, has been used by indigenous people to treat a wide range of disorders, ranging from neuromuscular issues to sexual dysfunction in both men and women.

Muira Puama extract has recently become popular in the west for its noted effects in increasing libido and enhancing erections. This is, of course, the primary reason why Muira Puama was included in Extagen.

Although the frequency of erectile dysfunction increases with age, it must be stressed that ageing itself is not a cause of impotence. Although the amount and force of the ejaculate as well as the need to ejaculate decrease with age, the capacity for er ection is retained. Men are capable of retaining their sexual virility well into their 80's.

Erectile dysfunction may be due to organic or psychogenic factors. In the overwhelming majority of cases the cause is organic, i.e., it is due to some physiological reason. In fact, in men over the age of 50, organic causes are responsible fro erectile dysfunction in of 90%. In the past, a man with impotence who was able to have nighttime or early morning erections was thought to have psychogenic impotence. However, it is mow recognized that this is not a reliable indicator.

Preliminary research indicates one of the best herbs to use for erectile dysfunction or lack of libido may be Muira puama (also known as potency wood). This shrub is native to Brazil and has long been used as a powerful aphrodisiac and nerve stimulant i n South American folk medicine. A recent study has validated its safety and effectiveness in improving libido and sexual function in some patients.

At the Institute of Sexology in Paris, France, under the supervision of one of the world's foremost authorities on sexual function, Dr. Jacques Waynberg, a clinical study with 262 patients complaining of lack of sexual desire and the inability to attain or maintain an erection demonstrated Muira puama extract to be effective in many cases Within two weeks.

The action of the muira puama herb is not fully understood but it seems to assist with both the psychological as well as the physical aspect of sexual function.

Presently, the mechanism of action of Muira puama is unknown, From the preliminary information, it appears that it works on enhancing both psychological and physical aspects of sexual function. Future research will undoubtably shed additional light on t his extremely promising herb for erectile dysfunction.

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Buy Pau D'arco Bark: Get Natural Remedies For Less

By Marvin Graham

Pau d'arco (Tabebuia avellanedae) is native to South America, where reportedly it has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, arthritis, inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis), fever, dysentery, boils and ulcers, and various cancers.

The herb suddenly rose to fame! A decade later however, the National Cancer Institute determined that the quantity needed of the cancer curing drug in pau d'arco would have too many dangerous side effects. As a result, the "miracle drug" lost its place of prestige.

The same is also true of some of the doses that might be needed to kill bacteria or viruses. If you decide to take pau d'arco, do so only under your doctor's supervision.

First, the research isolated the chemical lapachol in pau d'arco that they felt cured the cancer. Since then Researchers have isolated over 20 active chemicals in pau d'arco. Some feel it is a combination of several or all these together that makes it effective. Second, it has been shown that the use of the whole herb does not create the side effects that extracted lapachol causes.

Pau d'arco has effectively treated malaria, yeast infections, tuberculosis, strep, and dysentery. Pau d' arco in small dosages increases immune system activity and in large doses suppresses some immune responses such as inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory work have given pau d'arco promise as a treatment for arthritis, allergies, ulcers, skin problems, and other similar conditions. Add to that list diabetes, flu, lupus, parasites, and skin diseases, and it is easy to see why it was once toted as a 'wonder drug.'

The herb is especially effective against Candida albicans, the fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections. Writing in the British Journal of Phytotherapy, Dutch herbalist Edward Oswald refers to the method of soaking a tampon in a strong pau d'arco tea while also taking the herb orally.

Most pau d'arco products are not standardized, so it is not possible to determine whether or not they contain an appropriate amount of these active substances. It is important to carefully read the label to make sure that the product actually contains Tabebuia avellanedae as an ingredient.

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care practitioner. Talk to your doctor to determine the proper dose of pau d'arco, because too much can be dangerous. Pregnant and nursing women should not take pau d'arco.

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Colon Cleansing Herbs: Get Natural Remedies For Less

By Mike Hagler

Because eliminating toxins can help heal the digestive tract and restore healthy liver function, regular internal cleansing and detoxification is essential for those who want to achieve digestive wellness and vibrant health.

Indeed, there are so many ways in which an individual can complete a body detox system, but frequently persons look for the fastest and most effective means of doing so. Together with a combination of all important herbs in your diet during this detoxification, it's also advisable to eat healthy, green vegetables, together with fruits during the entire process.

The 1st point that one must understand about an herbal detoxification is what it genuinely is. Comparable to any other detox system, an herbal detoxification will assist the body in getting rid of any toxins that are in the system. It will not merely centre on cleansing the colon and liver, but it will also flush out the kidneys as well. There are a whole horde of benefits from executing an herbal detox each month, but numerous people do merge the herbal system with other sorts of detoxification systems that they know.

The benefits of detox herbs is not unknown to the medical fraternity as a potent way to detoxify the system. These are the best and the most natural way to detoxify the system and instill a feeling of well being. The most popular detoxification herbs are:

Psyllium seeds. These herbs induce bowel movements and clean the bowls of toxins very effectively. The herb itself acts like a sponge absorbing the toxins and passing out with the excreta. Cascara Sagrada is another very effective laxative that is used to flush out the toxins from the system and is used along with the psyllium seeds.

Colon hydrotherapy. Another way in which the colon can support the elimination process is through colon hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is water therapy, and colon hydrotherapy then is the therapeutic application of water into the colon. In contrast to a traditional enema, colon hydrotherapy involves repeated infusions of filtered, warm water into the colon.

Many patients have been able to overcome chronic constipation problems through colon hydrotherapy. Unlike chemical laxatives, which may encourage dependency, colon hydrotherapy actually helps to tone the bowel so that it resumes normal function.

After you spend one twenty-four hour time period digesting the foods depicted above and drinking a good deal of H2O, only then can you be finished with the herbal detoxification. This method is advocated to be completed at least twice per calendar month, even so, one time a month is adequate if that is all you are able to do. Many folks also choose to take a weekend to complete the process so that they are not absent from work. All the same, an herbal detox process will aid the complete body cleanse in the long run and should be used on a regular basis.

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Free Hearing Aid Batteries With Purchase

By Joanne Wren

Hearing aid batteries are a vital part in the performance and function of your hearing assistance device (obviously). However, many people are quick to blame the battery when there is an issue with performance.

Using a color coded system is the perfect way to tell the difference because no matter where you are, whether on the Internet or in a retail shop, you will always be able to find the right battery. This is crucial because they are not exactly cheap and there is nothing worse than having to return something because it is the wrong size or incompatible.

Many of the hearing aids you purchase will come with an energy source included however, it will not last forever and you will at some point need to get a replacement. This is why even if you don't need to know the difference between the four sizes and color codes upon the initial purchase you will need to know eventually.

No matter if you are young or old and are in need of a hearing assistance you can find discount hearing aids all over the Web and in local retailers. These are expensive devices, there is no way around this, and finding a good price for one is just as satisfying as finding the right one.

If you are having trouble finding discount hearing aids you can simply ask your audiologist where there are bargains, search online auctions and Web sites, or just find any local retailer to help your search query. This might sound like common sense but if you have never had to look before there is no way of knowing these things.

Hearing aid batteries are more times than not going to come with the device you purchased. This can be good and bad because you will have no idea if the battery is new if it is already installed into the device.

Going back to people who have invested in discount hearing aids, they automatically start blaming the device itself for being "cheap". This is not always the case because you will find name brand devices such as Phonak and Oticon that have the same issues as the less dependable ones.

Whenever there is something wrong with your hearing assistance device you will always want to check your hearing aid batteries first. Having a tester will make this a simple job and once you know that it is or isn't the battery you can take the necessary steps in resolving the issue.

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The Work " A Natural Depression Cure?

By Jesse Biel

If you have been suffering from mild to severe depression, I would encourage you to explore the works of Byron Katie, in particular her book Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life (2002). I discovered Bryon Katie when our neighbor Brian, a happy-go-lucky, kind individual, who has a obvious joy for life, loaned me his copy of Katie's book. Look at the cover of this book and you see a face of a woman who has lived through a thing or two.

Byron Katie (American speaker, author, 1942-), spent much of her thirties severely depressed, and she is the first to admit to having spent over ten years of her life, crippled by depression, to the point that some days she could not leave her bed. Once day, quite simply, she came to the conclusion that suffering is optional, and that it had a lot to do with what thoughts she believed. And from this day forth, she claims to have found a joy within that has never disappeared. Today, she is a force to be reckoned with. She helps hundreds of thousands of individuals who are seeking to stop their suffering, by using a process of self-inquiry, which she calls The Work.

Im relatively new to The Work, but Id say its all about thought flipping. Usually, whenever a person is feeling down or depressed, its safe to say they are probably not thinking happy thoughts. Katie invites a person who is angry or sad or depressed to question their thoughts, and, upon finding a upset thought, to ask: Who would I be without this thought?

Her four questions are as follows:

1.Is it true? 2.Can you absolutely know that it's true? 3.How do you react, what happens, when you believe that thought? 4.Who would you be without the thought?

Turning around a statement involves flipping it to the opposite, the other and self (and sometimes to "my thinking"). For example, the thought: I am angry at my husband because he lied to me about our finances can be turned around to: "He lied to himself about our finances." (or I lied to him...").

I recently shared The Work with a friend, who challenged me on how The Work could bring about change when years of therapy hadn't. He who called me the next day to thank me. Joy.

You might want to do what I did, which was to search for Byron Katie on Youtube, so that you can she her in action. She calls everyone honey or sweetheart and is known for having an intense gaze and presence, and a funny sense of humor.

The Work invites you to stop Suffering by and to Love What Is by:

Identifying thoughts that cause suffering (pain, anger, stress) Questioning these thoughts (not trying to change them; its more about awareness) Loving what is (resolution, happiness, integrity)

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Wednesday, August 26, 2009

The Extraordinary Siberian Chaga

By Dr. Markho Rafael

Chaga grows as a black cankerous mass on birch, dead or living. It may rarely be found on beech, elm, ash or hornbeam as well.

Europeans have used chaga for centuries as a cure for digestive ailments, tuberculosis, and cancers of the liver and heart. [121]

The black "skin" was removed and the lighter inside boiled as tea. Being such a compact natural medicine made it a valuable, portable remedy for healers of old.

Today's scientific focus on chaga extract is primarily as an anti-tumor remedy. In fact, it was approved in Russia as a cancer drug already in 1955, successfully used to treat cancers of the stomach, lungs, breasts and cervix. [122]

A 1998 study on chaga extract showed that it did inhibit growth of cervical cancer in a lab. [123] And a 1995 study reported both growth inhibition and death of melanoma cells, also in a lab (in vitro). [124, 25]

Other research papers also confirm that some of the active compounds of chaga help retard the growth of cancer cells. [125, 126]

The black color of chaga is caused by betulin, a medicinally active compound that makes up 30% of the skin. [127] The lighter inside of the mushroom is rich in fungal lanostanes. So chaga tea may be more effective if made with the whole mushroom, including the skin.

Better yet are chaga extracts made with both the mycelium ("root") and the whole mushroom fruit body. The mycelium is richer in medicinally active proteins than the mushroom itself.

Other research has found chaga to possess powerful anti-viral properties. In 1996, two studies published results of inhibitory effects on both influenza virus [127] and HIV. [128] Considering the nature of viruses, the most likely scenario is that chaga works on viruses by enhancing the body's own immune system, a theory confirmed by a paper published in 2002 and another in 2005. [25, 129] The same mechanism may explain the reported anti-inflammatory effect of chaga. [130]

An alcohol extraction of chaga was reported to lower elevated blood sugar levels. [131] Chaga also contains powerful antioxidants. [132, 133]

As an interesting aside unrelated to human health, a Quebec arborist uses a chaga poultice to cure chestnut blight. The trees later even become immune to the blight and resistant to future infections. [134]

Finally, in the book Mycelium Running, Paul Stamets lists the following additional areas of research on chaga with positive results: Bacteria; uterine cancer; liver conditions. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.

Credit to Paul Stamets for research and source material.

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Dietary Objectives Recommended To Prevent Cancer

By Rita Goldman

There is no connection between cancer and single food, there are certain overall guidelines that experts agree minimizes the risk of cancers. High intakes of vegetables over 500g or a pound a day may help in protecting against cancer, but it does not guarantee that vegetarians won't get cancer. They can and they sometimes do, what these guidelines are, are guidelines against risk.

The first recommendation is the reduction in fats and sugars while increasing the consumption of starchy carbohydrates especially complex carbohydrates such as brown rice and brown pasta and fruits and vegetables. The minerals and vitamins are supplied by moderate amounts of protein in the form of eggs, cheese, meat and fish for carnivores and pulses and beans for vegetarians.

Continuing a normal body weight with a body mass of between nineteen and twenty five is important, and it is important not to consume too much amounts of calories and have regular exercise several times a week. That does not mean going to the gym or running a half marathon. A walk for half an hour three times a week is sufficient, and the pace of working should just raise your heart beat a little.

In addition beta carotene supplements should not be used to avoid cancers. A large dose of other purified supplements of other micro nutrients are not a safe practice and is not without risk. The World Cancer Research Fund has identified five star foods for cancer prevention.

* They are foods rich in beta carotene, spinach carrots, broccoli and tomatoes. * Vitamin C rich foods, citrus fruits, berries, melons, green vegetables, tomatoes, cauliflowers and green peppers. * Selenium rich foods such as wheat germ, bran, onion, garlic, mushrooms and also tuna. * Foods rich in Vitamin E the wholegrain cereals. Wheat germ, leafy greens and soya beans

Further advice were that the consumption of red meat should never exceed 80 grams a day and that is less than three ounces as there are 28 grams in an ounce. Other forms of protein are recommended such as fish and poultry. It is recommended that the consumption of alcohol is limited a maximum of two drinks a day for men and one for women. Trans fats are found in processed bakery product such as cakes, cookies biscuits etc. The intake of salt in the form of sodium should be restricted fresh herbs and spices can be used to flavor food.

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What Antioxidants Can Do For You

By Erica Aveeno

There are a range of diseases such as cancer, heart ailments, strokes, sicknesses attached with aging, etc that can be prevented by antioxidants. Antioxidants help cleaning the injurious free radicals from the human body.

Antioxidant refers to a collection of organic substances, including vitamins C and E, vitamin A, selenium a mineral, and a group known as carotenoids - beta-carotene being the most popular and well know carotenoid. Carotenoids are the pigment compounds that give many fruits and vegetables their lively colors.

The free radicals, when left unmanaged, can damage cell walls, genetic material within cells and other cell structures. Over a period of time such damage may lead to disease. Again, antioxidants are believed to assist in preventing disease by destroying free radicals before they get the chance to do harm to your body.

Biochemical research and heaps of clinical trials have been performed, and results have been exposed. Smokers who consume their diets with elevated carotenoids have a relatively lower risk of developing lung cancer. High carotenoids may also be preventative for breast cancers. Antioxidant vitamin C has also been proven to stop the creation of a cancer causing substance from nitrates in foods " N-nitroso compounds.

Antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase are created inside the human body, and help the body in cleaning the harmful free radicals. These enzymes are available as oral supplements.

Supplementing with the components the body requires to make these enzymes may be more effective. These include the minerals managanese, zinc and copper for superoxide dismutase and selenium for glutathione peroxidase.

Numerous vitamins and minerals also show antioxidative traits such as vitamin C, vitamin B2, vitamin E, lutein, lycopene, amino acid- cysteine, and coenzyme Q10. Bilberry, green tea, milk thistle, turmeric, grape seed, and ginkgo are some herbs showing antioxidant charecteristics.

The antioxidant activity decreases with age of the human body, thus many health care specialists claim that the elderly, especially those with a reduced food intake, heavy drinkers, frequent aspirin users, smokers and individuals with immune problems may benefit greatly by taking daily antioxidant supplements. Higher levels of antioxidants in the body are certain to help preventing life threatening diseases.

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Vitamin C" The Wonder Supplement

By Anju Mathur, M.D.

Miracle Cure

There is a tremendous amount of evidence in health literature that vitamin C is the most critical nutrient needed for good health and for management of and curing a great number of infectious diseases. Even if the diagnosis is not yet final or other drugs have been given, vitamin C is perhaps the most essential treatment that any patient with a disease should get. This is because vitamin C is a natural antibiotic, anti-viral, anti-toxic and immune booster.

Vitamin C can neutralize toxins and viruses very quickly by merging with these particles and making them ineffective.

Vitamin C is the premier agent for treating nearly every viral infection. The dose of vitamin C administered depends on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of the patient's immune system. If people consumed enough vitamin C daily, most would not experience grave illnesses. In 1949 when polio was in its worst epidemic, Dr. Frederick R. Klenner, MD, used Vitamin C to treat polio, and published that his success rate was 100% - 60 out of 60 patients cured with no lingering damage. His work shows that vitamin C is extremely useful in neutralizing those agents able to poison a body.

Rats and guinea pigs have an enzyme called gulonolactone oxidase which occurs naturally in their systems. This enzyme converts glucose into vitamin C. However, humans do not have this enzyme, so have to get vitamin C elsewhere.

The Process of Using Vitamin C

Dr. Klenner's observed that when vitamin C is used but seems ineffective, the problem is insufficient amounts of vitamin C administered over too short a time period. Vitamin C can be administered as an intravenous drip. It can be used to oxidize the agents that cause disease. If it runs rapidly in the drip it becomes a flash oxidizer, and many conditions are cured in minutes. In addition to relieving infections, vitamin C is also an anti-clotting agent, an anti-histamine and a toxin neutralizer.

Vitamin C has to be administered after the cure is apparent. The reason is because of the way it works. Vitamin C joins with a toxin or virus, then more vitamin C oxidizes this new compound, so that both the toxin or virus and the vitamin C are destroyed. So the vitamin C must be replenished.

Vitamin C Use

Administering vitamin C in sufficient quantity intravenously has resulted in cures and prevention of these diseases and conditions:

Chronic fatigue syndrome - Also called chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome

Viral hepatitis - Hepatitis is most often caused by a virus, but it can be the result of exposure to certain toxic agents, such as drugs or chemicals

Viral encephalitis - inflammation of the substance of the brain.

Chickenpox - characterized by mild headache and fever, malaise, and eruption of blisters on the skin and mucous membranes

Herpes infection - marked by the development of blisterlike sores on the skin or mucous membranes of the body.

Viral Pneumonia - characterized by fever, a cough with blood-tinged phlegm, and difficult breathing

Influenza - characterized by inflammation of the respiratory tract and by fever, chills, muscular pain, and exhaustion

Rabies

AIDS

The common Cold - a respiratory disorder

Streptococcal infections - characterized by sore throat infection and inflammation

Amoebic dysentery

Staphylococcal infections - causes boils, septicemia, and other infections.

Barbiturates, CO or pesticides or alcohol poisoning

Any toxic poisoning e.g. mercury, lead, arsenic, nickel, Aluminum - heavy metal toxicity

Radiation Toxicity - also called radiation sickness

High doses of Vitamin C are pretty safe by record. Some terminal cancer patients were given high doses of intravenous vitamin C for up to 8 weeks. The blood count and chemistry revealed no side effects from this administration. In Australia some physicians have given up to 300,000 mg with spectacular results, the only side effect is chronic good health.

The only question raised concerning side effects by conformist doctors is a fear that vitamin C could cause kidney stones. Their reasoning was that metabolism of vitamin C results in oxalate, and nearly all kidney stones are calcium oxalate. Although this objection still remains in dispute, some medical literature reports that vitamin C in fact helps break up kidney stones.

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