Common Herbal Remedies

Common Herbal Remedies
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426
Summary:
Herbal remedies have been around thousand of years.  The benefits from herbs can play a vital role in your overall health and well-being.

Keywords:
herbal remedies,herbs,herbal medicine,alternative medicine

Article Body:
People have been collecting herbs to use as medicine for centuries.  Many doctors claim however that taking herbs in place of your prescribed medication is not recommended. 
There has been a vast amount of information and testing with regard to herbal remedies.  Herbs like vitamins are good for your body and overall health.  Although the exact cause of why herbs have a positive effect on the body is not always known.  Usually, herbs need to be taken over a long period to receive the benefits to you health.
Listed below is information about some common herbal remedies.
Alfalfa has been known to be effective in healing ailments such as gas pains, pain and stiffness from arthritis and ulcers.  Alfalfa herb tea possesses no adverse components and is safe for all people including children.
For relief from upset stomachs, colds, bronchitis, bladder troubles, and jaundice, Chamomile is recommended.  This herb is also helpful in the regulating menstrual cycle's rheumatic pains, and headaches.  Chamomile has also been effective for babies with colic.  In addition, it can act as an insect repellent when used properly.
Dandelion increases activity in the pancreas, liver, and spleen and contains insulin substitutes.  Dandelion has a high vitamin and mineral content that is used for treating kidney and liver disorders, along with skin disease and loss of appetite.
Eucalyptus is a major ingredient in many commercial medicines such as cough and sore throat medications.  These plants also contain oils that are extremely potent antiseptics.  The oil may be applied locally on wounds, sores, and burns.  Eucalyptus can also be used as an insect repellent.
Ginseng has been used for more than 5000 years in the Chinese culture.  This herb strengthens the heart and nervous system.  In addition, it builds up a general mental and physical vitality and may be effective for treating colds, coughs, gout, diabetes, headache, and backache.
Hawthorn is known to cause the dilation of the coronary vessels. An improvement has been shown in patients and is helpful in insomnia. It has been used to treat high blood pressure when taken over a period of time.
A strengthening tonic for the entire system is Strawberry.  It is helpful with diarrhea, night sweats, liver complaints, gout, and jaundice.  Strawberry is used internally for weak intestines and is also used for enema.
The above herbal remedies listed above are general guidelines.  If an herb does not agree with you or if you feel adverse effects, discontinue using the herb.  The information contained in this article is not intended to replace the services of a physician.

Choosing Natural Alternative Medicine Over Chemically Produced Medicine

Choosing Natural Alternative Medicine Over Chemically Produced Medicine
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280
Summary:
Natural alternative medicines now are receiving a lot of build-up and hype and regular medicine are now receiving a lot of flak as well. This is brought upon by the many cases of side effects that might as well do more harm than good.  People are rediscovering the goodness of what is natural and chemical-free.

Keywords:
alternative medicine

Article Body:
Natural alternative medicines now are receiving a lot of build-up and hype and regular medicine are now receiving a lot of flak as well. This is brought upon by the many cases of side effects that might as well do more harm than good.  People are rediscovering the goodness of what is natural and chemical-free.
Knowing that these natural alternative medicines were used for centuries upon centuries already makes them more reliable than prescription drugs for many people. Also, the fact that the list of benefits hugely overrates the harm, which rarely happens, gives a great reason to give it at least a try. Nothing is lost and everything is to be gained.
But who's to say which is really best for us, regular or natural alternative medicines? Many or most of us generally rely on doctors to tell us what to do and which medicine to use. Well, this is the best choice, but seeking a second opinion may also be very recommendable especially if your doctor couldn't or is having a hard time curing you.
There are a lot of differences between regular prescription medicines and natural alternative medicines. But the main factor that drives people away is not only their price difference but also their effectiveness and the barrage of side effects. Natural alternative medicine has been proven and tested with age and time already.
Aside from the herbs and spices and teas, natural alternative medicine can be coupled with massages, mental exercises such as meditation, aromatherapies and so much more. Many regular medicines have come and gone but natural alternative medicines have lived on. The main reason for this is because we know that they work.

Brainwaves Part 1 - Frequencies

Brainwaves Part 1 - Frequencies
Word Count:
518
Summary:
Scientist and NLP have proven that the brain is an electrochemical organ; researchers have hypothesized that a fully functioning brain can generate as much as 10 watts of electricity.

Keywords:
brainwaves,nlp,alternative medicine,natural healing

Article Body:
Scientist and NLP have proven that the brain is an electrochemical organ; researchers have hypothesized that a fully functioning brain can generate as much as 10 watts of electricity.
The more conservative scientist calculate that if all 10 billion interconnected nerve cells discharged at one time that a single electrode placed on the human scalp would record something like five millionths to 50 millionths of a volt. If you had enough scalps hooked up you might be able to light a flashlight bulb.
Electrical activity emanating from the brain is displayed in the form of brainwaves. There are four categories of these brainwaves, ranging from the most activity to the least activity.
The most intriguing part of all this is you can actually stimulate the brain with sound and light to produce certain brainwaves, which many agree will produce certain benefits.  Before we get into all that; let’s first review how we measure brainwaves and what brainwaves are common.
To measure the brainwaves a device call an EEG is used. The EEG (electroencephalograph) measures brainwaves of different frequencies within the brain. Electrodes are placed on specific sites on the head to detect and record the electrical impulses within the brain.
Alpha (8-12 Hz)
Alpha waves are those between 7.5 and 13(Hz). Alpha waves will peak around 10Hz. Good healthy alpha production promotes mental resourcefulness, aids in the ability to mentally coordinate and enhance overall sense of relaxation and fatigue. In this state you can move quickly and efficiently to accomplish whatever task is at hand. When Alpha predominates most people feel at ease and calm. Alpha appears to bridge the conscious to the subconscious.
Beta (above 12 Hz)
Beta activity is 'fast' activity. It has a frequency of 14 and greater Hz. It reflects desynchronized active brain tissue. It is usually seen on both sides in symmetrical distribution and is most evident frontally. It may be absent or reduced in areas of cortical damage.
Delta (0.1 to 3 Hz) 
The lowest frequencies are delta. These are less than 4 Hz and occur in deep sleep and in some abnormal processes also during experiences of "empathy state". Delta waves are involved with our ability to integrate and let go. It reflects unconscious mind.
Gamma (above 36 Hz)
Gamma is measured between 36  44 (Hz) and is the only frequency group found in every part of the brain. When the brain needs to simultaneously process information from different areas, it’s hypothesized that the 40Hz activity consolidates the required areas for simultaneous processing. A good memory is associated with well-regulated and efficient 40Hz activity, whereas a 40Hz deficiency creates learning disabilities
Theta (4-8 Hz)
The next brainwave is theta. Theta activity has a frequency of 3.5 to 7.5 Hz and is classed as "slow" activity. It is seen in connection with creativity, intuition, daydreaming, and fantasizing and is a repository for memories, emotions, and sensations. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness. It reflects the state between wakefulness and sleep. Relates to subconscious.
We offer a CD that contains combinations of these frequencies at http://www.countrybee.com/ We will go further into brainwaves in the next part of this series.

Bach Flower Essences And Remedies - The Seven Helpers

Bach Flower Essences And Remedies - The Seven Helpers
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1482
Summary:
A Bach Flower Therapy Introduction and the 12-7-19 Method of Bach Flower Essence Classification:
Dr. Edward Bach, developer of flower essence therapy, classified the original 38 essences he used in his practice according to the 12-7-19 method: the Twelve Healers, the Seven Helpers, and the Second Nineteen. In part I of this series, the Twelve Healer flower essences were reviewed, along with the underlying theory of flower essence therapy – here we’ll have a look at the rhy...

Keywords:
flower essences,bach flowers,bach flower remedies,alternative healing,alternative medicine

Article Body:
A Bach Flower Therapy Introduction and the 12-7-19 Method of Bach Flower Essence Classification:
Dr. Edward Bach, developer of flower essence therapy, classified the original 38 essences he used in his practice according to the 12-7-19 method: the Twelve Healers, the Seven Helpers, and the Second Nineteen. In part I of this series, the Twelve Healer flower essences were reviewed, along with the underlying theory of flower essence therapy – here we’ll have a look at the rhymes and reasons of the Seven Helpers.
Dr. Bach prescribed one or more of the Seven Helper essences to patients who did not seem to be responding sufficiently to therapy with one of the Twelve Healers. The Twelve Healer flower essences – Impatiens, Gentian, Mimulus, Clematis, Agrimony, Chicory, Vervain, Centaury, Scleranthus, Water Violet, Rock Rose, and Cerato – were developed by Dr. Bach to address what he saw as the imbalances of the twelve archetypal personality types. It is through the vibrational transformation of these imbalances that healing of overlying disease states can, in many cases, be initiated. However, Dr. Bach found there were individuals that did not respond to flower essence therapy with the Twelve Healers; this lead him to the discovery of the Seven Helpers.
The Purpose of the 'Seven Helper' Flower Essences:
The purpose of the Seven Helpers is to address chronically ingrained negative vibrational patterns which may be obscuring the primary personality type. For example, Olive, one of the Seven Helper flower essences, is prescribed for states of exhaustion, where one has been worn out by the struggle of healing or other life event. In this case, it may be difficult to see what the primary personality type of the individual may be, as true fatigue does not let a whole lot else show through - this real weariness may mask other personality traits or patterns.
Or it may be that the chronic state simply prevents progress on the healing path that could otherwise take place. Again, using Olive essence as an example – An individual may clearly be in need of one of the Twelve Healers. Perhaps they live in fear and are in need of Mimulus, and clearing this fear would allow them to heal. However, their fatigue is so great as they do not have the strength to work with these issues – in this case, it may be helpful to use Olive along with Mimulus to offer a more complete support from the flower essence therapy.
The Seven Helper essences can certainly be administered individually as well, particularly if a specific flower essence is strongly indicated. Dr. Bach had also written that if an individual is not responding to other essences, Wild Oat (one of the Seven) may be used: “If ever a case does not respond to treatment, give either Holly or Wild Oat, and it will be obvious which of the other remedies may be required. In all cases where the patient is of the active, intense type, give Holly. In patients who are of the weak, despondent type, give Wild Oat.”
Beyond the original works of Dr. Bach, the Flower Essence Repertory from Flower Essence Services offers descriptions of these seven essences beyond what a physician may see. FES broadens the application of the flowers to include their use for those needing change that may or may not be related to a health condition. This is an important point, as one may have tendencies they may wish to transform, but are at no serious risk. This application of flower essence is encouraged, for any support for personal and ‘soul’ evolution is indeed invaluable. So within the following descriptions of the Seven Helper flower essences, a broad view will be maintained, so that the greatest audience may find a suitable essence.
As always with flower essence therapy, in cases of illness, treatment is not a substitute for proper professional care. It may be the case that an illness may have emotional roots, and that flowers can be of help, but one should not solely rely on self-prescription of flower essences as a cure.
And on to the descriptions…
The Seven Helpers:
Olive – As stated earlier, Olive flower essence is indicated where great fatigue has set in. An individual may be pale, worn out and / or exhausted after excessive worry, illness, grief or other struggle. The individual perhaps feels they do not have the strength to continue; that both their physical energy source has been spent. The Olive remedy allows one to tap into a new source of light, helping one see and feel a rejuvenation that comes from establishing (or re-establishing) a connection to a universal energy. This connection may provide the impetus needed for change in other areas, or may be transformative in and of itself through helping on realize that the etheric ‘spirit’ body and the physical body are inseparable.
Gorse – This flower essence is used where one has lost will due to discouragement, becoming hopeless and resigned to one’s condition. They have perhaps been giving too much energy to the negative possibilities, solidifying this outlook so no progress can be made. This remedy restores hope to such individuals, so they may be able to have a brighter outlook, perhaps more joy, when confronted with life’s challenges.
Oak – The remedy for those committed to over-striving, regardless if that striving is having a positive result. Those in need of the Oak flower essence have great determination and strength, which can be true assets. However, at times it is crucial to balance this force with subtlety and grace. The individual may have even become resigned to the inevitable failure of their endeavor or succumbing to an illness, yet they continue with their efforts. Oak helps restore a balance, allowing one the freedom of letting up or resting when that is in fact what is required. An important essence in today’s hard-striving world.
Vine – For those who see their way as the ‘right’ way or the only way, Vine essence allows an opening in one’s perception for other points of view. An individual in need of Vine may have a domineering personality, insisting that everyone else follow their lead, including health professionals. Such a point of view can lead to great stress when it is perceived do not share the same ideas, and that harm, or at least lack of healing, may come about. Vine essence may soften this selfish nature, assisting one to understand that other points of view may be entirely valid, and in fact, more complete than one’s own. This allows the individual to receive needed support, often a key component in any personal transformation.
Heather – The Heather type appear self-obsessed, talking continually about their own situations and problems. Such persons are in fact truly lonely and often in great emotional pain. They may feel an emptiness or hunger, which they feed from the attention of others. This flower essence helps one make a connection to the Higher Self, finding peace and solace in the unity of all being. This realization helps one overcome the loneliness and disconnection they may feel, drawing on emotional self-sufficiency and true shared relationship with others for assistance.
Rock Water – For those that are too hard on themselves. Being reflective and aware is one thing, to go so far as to limit one’s (and one’s friends and family) enjoyment of life is another. Flexibility and spontaneity are key components to the ‘life well lived’. Further, a rigidity in lifestyle can prevent one from finding joy, an important factor in healing from many illnesses. This essence is sometimes indicated for those beginning flower essence therapy or those who do not see results, as it may assist in opening the soul to the energies of the plant realm.
Wild Oat – Health and happiness are very much connected with one’s ability to find one’s true vocation. Wandering through life feeling a lack of purpose can lead to distressed states, with addictions or despondency being possible results. Wild Oat flower essence may help align one with their true calling, so that both the individual and the greater environment can benefit. When one finds this sense of meaning, there is a strong inner light that can shine forth, supporting one’s own health, and the health of those around them.
These are the Seven Helpers, as categorized per Dr. Edward Bach’s 12-7-19 flower essence method. It is said that with the Twelve Healers and the Seven Helpers, one can support transformation of many vibrational/emotional states. At the same time, it is important to keep one’s mind open to possibilities; there are a great number of researched flower essences available, one’s that may be even more precisely applied to a particular situation. The Healer and Helper essences are however, a fantastic place to start if one is seeking an effective collection of remedies, suitable for the needs of many beings.

Are You Wasting Time and Money at Doctor Visits?

Are You Wasting Time and Money at Doctor Visits?
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790
Summary:
Are You Wasting Time and Money at Doctor Visits? Discover 10 tips for a Better Doctor Visit

Keywords:
Osteopathic medicine, osteopathy, health, family health, D.O., alternative medicine, medicine, women’s health, holistic medicine prevention, preventive medicine, nutrition, OMM, osteopathic manipulation, alternative treatments

Article Body:
Tips for a Better Doctor Visit
1. Have as many medical records as possible with you to document your medical condition, especially for a new visit or a consult.  Go by the hospital, lab or other doctor’s office and get copies. This saves the doctor time and sometimes even avoids an extra official call.
2. Bring in the actual bottles of prescriptions.  While lists are helpful, the bottles reveal how many are prescribed at a time, dosage, and if there are any refills left.  There is no more guessing about the “little blue pill.”  With so many generics the same drug can show up as many different shapes and sizes depending on the manufacturer.  Now you can both be on the same page when talking about a specific medication. I am also surprised at the many errors on the bottles by the pharmacist. 
3. Create a list of questions/requests before your visit.  In fact, it would be ideal to tell the person making the appointment what areas you need to discuss.  This is not the time to say its “personal.”  We assume it is all personal in a medical office.  It helps us be prepared in scheduling, equipment, and assigning the proper room.  Believe it or not, we have heard most of your problems before.  Of course if it is extremely sensitive in nature than just tell the receptionist how much time you will need to discuss your personal problem. 
4. Try to keep to one system of the body per visit unless a complete physical is done.  Most office visits are geared to blocks of 15 minutes.  Usually this is adequate to cover most simple problems such as a rash, upper respiratory infection, and urinary infection just as examples.  The longer you have had the problem or the vaguer the symptoms such as abdominal pain or dizziness expect to spend more time.  Don’t hesitate to ask for more time.  We would rather know ahead of time what your expectations are.
5. Ask for prescription refills, notes for work or school, and forms to fill out at the beginning of the office visit rather than at the end.  Of course, a friendly reminder is always good if it has been overlooked when you leave. You can always give a list of medications needing refills to the nurse at the beginning of the visit too.  Again, communication helps everyone get their needs met.
6. Be realistic in your expectations.  If you start the discussion on a topic that is unrelated to the original problem on the schedule and want some answers, this leaves less time available for other problems.  For example, if you are due to have a pap smear and gynecological exam but start with a headache complaint that requires a physical and full history, don’t expect all of it to be done in one visit.  Always prioritize what is most important for that day.  Sometimes problems become more important, symptoms severe since the original appointment or follow up was made.  Just tell the nurse or doctor things have changed as soon as possible.  That way we can stay on schedule and you can get the most important problem addressed.
7. Don’t leave the office without telling someone if you aren’t satisfied with your service.  Most doctors and staff assume everything is going ok unless told.  It is easier to fix a problem, answer a question or complaint as soon as possible while the information is still fresh.  If you are uncomfortable talking or can’t stay, write a quick note.  Many areas are sensitive and highly charged emotionally.  It is easy to misunderstand directions, reasons for tests, or the intent of the doctor’s remarks.  We really do care how you feel. 
8. It is easier to process your visit on time and handle paperwork if all of your information is correct.  Tell the receptionist if you have moved, have a new telephone number, or changed medical insurance.  Always bring your insurance card with you.
9. I know everyone is busy and overscheduled.  The number one reason doctors are behind in the schedule is patients showing up late.  True, other factors can play a role such as telephone calls and very sick patients. Just be aware that as the day progresses the problem gets magnified.  If you must get in and out quickly try to book the very first or second appointment of the morning or afternoon.
10. Be flexible.  Medical offices are there to serve the patients.  Sometimes bad news, a tragic accident, or a serious medical condition requires more time and attention of the staff.  We can’t hurry someone out who is in tears.  Just be understanding that if it is you, you will get the extra time and attention needed.

Are Alternative Medicines Effective?

Are Alternative Medicines Effective?
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469
Summary:
A growing number of people have become interested in alternative medicine to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine as a practice has created a significant amount of controversy both inside and outside the traditional medical field. Alternative medicine refers to a treatment or substance that is unproven under the application or accepted scientific standards. The most common types of alternative medicine include herbs, supplements, therapies and activities that are outside tra...

Keywords:
alternative medicine,herbal remedies,healing

Article Body:
A growing number of people have become interested in alternative medicine to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine as a practice has created a significant amount of controversy both inside and outside the traditional medical field. Alternative medicine refers to a treatment or substance that is unproven under the application or accepted scientific standards. The most common types of alternative medicine include herbs, supplements, therapies and activities that are outside traditional medical practice. Some of these raise questions about their safety and effectiveness.
Acupuncture, massage, meditation, herbal tea, and plant extracts are popular among devotees of alternative medicine, but many traditional doctors believe these treatments are ineffective or even dangerous. Alternative medicine has become increasingly popular as more people face the aches, pains, and illnesses that accompany aging. In some cases, individuals have not obtained a cure with traditional medical approaches and turn to other options to treat their illness. In still other cases, people feel very strongly that natural methods of treatment are better than traditional medicine, so they look for answers from alternative practitioners instead of the family doctor.
There are risks associated with alternative medicine. Some of the risks arise through the use of untested, ineffective, and even unsafe substances. The manufacturers of these substances sometimes exaggerate the claims of their effectiveness. They may misrepresent the science related to the material to convince consumers to buy the product, even if its use can endanger a person’s health.
Some herbal remedies are advertised as being able to improve memory, raise metabolism, or cure cancer and heart disease. In reality, the remedies may cause harm if taken at high doses. Another risk is that someone with a serious disease like cancer will not receive traditional and proven treatments, preferring to use alternative methods that may not be effective. In these cases, people are risking their lives. Sometimes, patients may be using alternative treatments, but not telling their doctors about them. This can lead to dangerous drug interactions. If a traditional doctor is unaware of the substance a patient is taking, medications that produce harmful interactions may be unknowingly prescribed.
It is possible to recognize potentially risky alternative treatment. If a treatment sounds too good to be true, it probably is. While this is a cliché, it is often very true in situations involving alternative medicines. Be careful of products labeled ‘miraculous’ or ‘ancient remedy.’ If you are thinking about treatments such as acupuncture or reflexology, check the qualifications of the practitioner before being treated. Ask about the training received, and research the treatment to determine if it has been scientifically tested and found to be effective.
It’s a good idea to ask your doctor about an alternative treatment you are considering. Trained medical professionals have the experience and education to help you make safe decisions about your health.

Alternative Medicine to Lower Your Blood Pressure

Alternative Medicine to Lower Your Blood Pressure
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351
Summary:
If you have high blood pressure, there are alternative medicines that can help.  Home remedies are cost effective and eliminate the unfavorable side affects of prescribed drugs.

Keywords:
blood pressure,alternative medicine,high blood pressure

Article Body:
Home remedies and homeopathic medicine have begun popular over the years as an alternative to prescription drugs.  Many people are not aware that there are also home remedies available to lower your blood pressure.  What is nice about a home remedy is the lower cost and eliminating the unfavorable side effects of prescribed medicines.  Another advantage of home remedies is that while it may be used to alleviate one symptom, it often has other health benefits.  Many home remedies can be found in your local supermarket and health food store. 
If you suffer from high blood pressure, here are a few home remedies.  These remedies will not only lower your blood pressure but are good for your general health too.
Below are a few home remedies to help lower your blood pressure
· Potassium and Magnesium.  Foods high in these minerals are bananas, molasses, soy and bananas.  Some fruits such as watermelon and grapes are also a good source.  Not only will these foods lower your blood pressure but are beneficial to your overall health too.
· Garlic has many beneficial properties that improve overall health, including lowering your blood pressure.  Consumption of garlic will also reduce blot clot occurrences in individuals.  It is believed by some researches that garlic will also lower the triglyceride levels.
Therefore, you are probably wondering what a triglyceride is.  A triglyceride is a glyceride that occurs naturally in tissues and consists of three fatty acids that are bound together in a single molecule.  They are an important energy source forming much of the fat stored in the body.
You can research on how to lower your blood pressure using home remedies in many ways.  The internet has a wealth of information dedicated to home remedies and homeopathic medicine to lower your blood pressure.  Bookstores and libraries also offer an abundance of information.  With a little research, you can find alternatives to prescription drugs for lowering your blood pressure. 
As with any alternative health remedies, consult with your physician before discontinuing any prescribed medicines.  Abruptly taking your prescription medicine could have serious and long-term effects on your health.

Alternative Medicine is Preventive; Western Medicine is Curative

Alternative Medicine is Preventive; Western Medicine is Curative
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347
Summary:
An important differentiator between alternative medicine (acupuncture, herbs, yoga, etc.) and Western medicine (drugs, surgery) is how the practitioners view disease.  In alternative medicine, disease is seen as something to be avoided.  In Western medicine, we see disease as something we must wait for, then cure.

Keywords:
alternative medicine, Western medicine, wellness, early detection

Article Body:
Have you heard the term “wellness?” It has two contexts, one in alternative medicine and one in Western medicine.
In the alternative medicine world, wellness means taking care of yourself so you don't get sick.  Let's find ways to avoid cancer, heart disease, mental illness.  We can do this through changing our diet, exercising more, and changing our energy fields.
In Western medicine, we wait until we get one of these diseases, then we rush heroically to “beat the disease.”  In Western medicine, the term <i>wellness</i> means “early detection” of disease. If you walk into a “Wellness Center” in a hospital, you'll see mammogram screening rooms, MRI machines and other tools to scan for the existence of disease.
Is that wellness?  To me, it's not. Wellness is about staying well, it is about avoiding disease in the first place.  When a person is told “You have cancer,” it is a major blow to their psyches, and their lives.  Why go through that if you don't have to?  Why not do whatever you can to avoid that terrible day?
Western medicine treats the “pre-detection” part of life as a kind of random soup of nothingness. You can't really do anything about any of these diseases, you just get them or you don't.  No rhyme or reason to it, it just hits you, and then you deal with it.
Genetics is a big factor in the Western medical model.  If you get cancer, ah, well, it was in your genes that you'd get it.  You see, your great grandfather had cancer, so it was inevitable that you'd get it too.
Huh?  Unfortunately, Western medicine can't explain why siblings get or don't get diseases supposedly passed on from their parents.  One sister dies of cancer at a young age (because of genetics) and the other sister lives to be 100 (genetics).
For my part, I'm going to take the best care of myself possible, and not play a silly waiting game for disease.

Alternative Medicine is Holistic, Western Medicine is Reductionist

Alternative Medicine is Holistic, Western Medicine is Reductionist
Word Count:
662
Summary:
Alternative medicine is a label that seems to apply to many practices from acupuncture to yoga to vitamins to massage. How is alternative medicine, or holistic health, different from what we in the United States call “modern medicine?”

Keywords:
alternative medicine, reductionist, holistic, holism, wholism, integrative medicine, complementary medicine, machine, model

Article Body:
The major difference between alternative medicine, or what I'll call holistic health, and Western medicine, is in approach.
A Western doctor, or MD, sees his duty as searching out disease, diagnosing it, and treating it. If he does that correctly and effectively, he's done his job. Most often, this means the doctor prescribing a pharmaceutical drug or a surgical procedure to remedy the situation.  The patients is passive in all of this.
A holistic health practitioner sees her duty as an educator and a facilitator. She feels that the body can heal itself, and it doesn't necessarily need outside influences (drugs, surgery) to heal from an illness or to prevent an illness. In holistic health, the patient is an active participant.
This is the best and the worst thing about holistic health! The patient is actively involved in the healing process.  Everything you know about your body says that this is the right approach. It makes so much sense.  That's the good part.  The bad thing about this is that it is HARD WORK for the patient.  In most cases, the patient must make changes to their lifestyle.  Change your diet, do more exercise, stop using sugar, do these stretches, stop negative thoughts, meditate twice a day, etc.
Making lifestyle changes is immensely difficult.  The only time it's easy is when you are faced with a life-threatening disease.  When you find out you have lung cancer, it's pretty easy to quit smoking.  However, it's far too late by that time.  Lifestyle changes need to come before the illness becomes manifest.
Let's examine one of the big differences between holistic health and Western medicine: holism versus reductionism.
Holistic versus Reductionist
This is a major shift in perspective.  Taking a holistic perspective means that you cannot understand a single problem with a single part of the human body without looking at the whole person.  We use the short-hand “mind, body, spirit” to refer to the whole person.
This is not how a Western doctor is taught to see a patient.  He sees the patient as the disease.  “This is an epileptic,” it is not a whole person who has epilepsy. He feels that he can administer a drug or perform a surgery that will cure a person's liver without making any difference to the rest of the person.  Of course, this is never possible, so when the inevitable “complications” arise, the Western doctor deals with those one at a time, often causing additional problems for the person, whether in body, mind or spirit.
Even those three parts of the person are treated by separate people in Western society.  The body is the domain of the medical doctor.  The mind is the domain of the psychiatrist. Spirit is left to the priest, rabbi or pastor.  There is no overlap in roles, except for referrals from one to the other.  In our bodies, of course, there is tremendous overlap.  A loss of connection to God or the universe will cause no end of mental and physical problems.  Mental stress causes many physical diseases, as we well know.  Who can coordinate between these in the Western system?  No one.  Problems falling “through the cracks” between mind, body and spirit is a common failure of Western medicine.
A holistic practitioner understands the interconnections between mind, body and spirit.  They work on the connections, and, although the practitioner may not be an expert in all three, they focus on the overlaps rather than ignoring them.
In my opinion, a holistic approach is better in almost every case for almost every person. Understanding the linkages between mind, body and spirit is essential to understanding how to stay well and how to heal.  Western medicine can play a part within the scope of holistic health by offering emergency solutions to problems that arise quickly and need to be fixed immediately.

Alternative Medicine - Gaining Popularity And Acceptance

Alternative Medicine - Gaining Popularity And Acceptance
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447
Summary:
Alternative medicine has been gaining in both popularity and acceptance in recent years. Many cities now have a plethora of shops where a person interested in buying alternative medicines can go to find whatever they are seeking, in addition to being able to take advantage of many alternative medicine services at local practitioners’ offices.
Alternative medicine is simply a way of referencing a type of treatment that is not officially recognized by the medical establishme...

Keywords:
alternative medicine, holistic medicine, alternative treatments, natural cures

Article Body:
Alternative medicine has been gaining in both popularity and acceptance in recent years. Many cities now have a plethora of shops where a person interested in buying alternative medicines can go to find whatever they are seeking, in addition to being able to take advantage of many alternative medicine services at local practitioners’ offices.
Alternative medicine is simply a way of referencing a type of treatment that is not officially recognized by the medical establishment as a relief or cure. There are literally thousands of practices that fall under this category, and most people would be surprised to find some of the items that either are or were once considered to be against the grain, or categorized as “alternative” medicine.
Not too far back in medical history, doctors did not wash their hands while helping a woman through child labor. The result was thousands of contracted infections and death due to bacterial transfer. Doctors who advocated the practice of hand-washing or warned of unseen microbes were shunned and mocked by their professional peers, and only in the last century has sterilization been a common and then regulated medical practice. It is hard to believe that something we take so much for granted was once considered alternative medicine, but it was so.
In the 21st century, alternative medicine is not as frowned upon by the medical profession as it once was. Treatments such as acupuncture are common, and many other forms of alternative medicine are gaining acceptance. Even watching weekly magazine shows like Dateline on NBC, observers can see radical alternative medicine practitioners curing patients with terminal illnesses to the wonderment of experts. Some are scams to be sure, but some are simply inexplicable, and professionals who witness the events tend not to endorse them, but neither do they dismiss them.
Part of the reason for the increase in acceptance of alternative medicine is the recognition of the powers of the mind over the body. There is increasing evidence that a patient’s attitude can sometimes shape the physical response, and this in part helps to illustrate why alternative medicine is more well received than it used to be. A patient who believes he or she is doing better, often will.
Before going out to walk on coals or ingest an ear tuft of a koala though, it is important to do some research into the practice or practitioner one is considering for advice. Alternative medicine, by its definition, is not regulated and that leaves a lot of room for quacks to take advantage of people’s ills to make a quick buck. Don’t rush into anything, and if it appears shady, do not partake of it.

Alternative Medicine

Alternative Medicine
Word Count:
490
Summary:
Find out what alternative medicine means and where it started and also why it is so popur.

Keywords:
headache,alternative medicine,holistic,health,pains,cure,treatment,holistic,health,yoga,herbal,herbs,holistic health degree,holistic classes

Article Body:
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Alternative medicine means different things to different people. Alternative medicine encompasses many different approaches from massage to Chinese medicine and yoga. Alternative medicine means practices or medicines that are used instead of the usual, or standard, ways of treating diseases or illness. Examples of complementary and alternative medicine are meditation, yoga, and dietary supplements like vitamins and herbs. Alternative medicine means that it is different to the dominant health care system and potentially can replace it.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is the oldest continuously practiced medical system in the world and is used by one third of the world's population as a primary health care system. Health is defined as a state of physical well being, mental alertness, socially adjusted, and spiritually developed. Health care is not about drugs and the cost of drugs.

CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE
Conventional medicine is continuing to lose market share. More and more people want options beyond what many consider to be essentially a high-tech slash, burn and poison medicine. Conventional medicine is used to describe the services that treat the symptoms of a disease or illness with prescribed medications and surgeries. Conventional medicine treats the ailing part of the body but may not address the underlying causes of the illness or disease.
Traditional practitioners don't express hopefulness when their medicine fails as they treat diseases first and then people secondly. On the other hand alternative practitioners, often encourage patients to be hopeful even when the situation is hopeless as they aim to treat the mind, body and soul of their patient.
Medicine is directly related to the biomedicine and health sciences. The term 'Medicine' today refers to the fields of surgery, clinical medicine and the medical research. Medical mistakes appear to be increasing, and if they are not, then at the very least, the publicizing of them is increasing. It makes people wary.
HERBAL
Herbal medicine is a booming industry in the United States. The American market for herbal remedies has doubled the last couple of years. Herbs may be harmful if taken for the wrong conditions, used in excessive amounts, combined with prescription drugs or alcohol, or used by persons who don't know what they are doing. Just because an herbal remedy is natural, does not mean it is safe!
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture needles are usually inserted to a depth of about a quarter of an inch into the skin. The therapist gently twists or twirls them for up to 10 minutes, leaving them in five to 20 minutes longer; or stimulates them with a weak electrical current; or heats them with a burning herb such as mugwort (see moxibustion). Acupuncture was used as an illustration of medical irrationality before James Reston's fortuitous appendicitis brought it to the United States. From the impact of the LaLeche League on the advisability of breast-feeding to current studies of botanical medicines such as ginger, echinacea and ginkgo biloba, folk and alternative medicines have continuously influenced medical research and practice.

Acupressure Fast Facts - Get Pain Relief at Home

Acupressure Fast Facts - Get Pain Relief at Home
Word Count:
456
Summary:
Discover the secrets of acupressure and get fast pain relief at home.

Keywords:
acupressure, acupuncture, natural medicine, alternative medicine, pain relief

Article Body:
Acupressure was originated in China thousands of years ago, and evidence has been found that acupressure was practiced in the stone age!
Acupressure has been used to reduce post-operative nausea and vomiting in children.
Acupressure also reduces nausea in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Acupressure can be done anywhere without special equipment.
You can treat yourself safely with acupressure, as long as you follow the guidelines of a professional acupressure practitioner.
Correctly performed, acupressure increases circulation, reduces tension and pain and enables the body to relax.
Acupressure strengthens the immune system and promotes wellness.
Acupressure should be applied slowly and gently. Applying it too quickly or vigorously can do some damage, especially in the abdominal area.
Special care and caution is needed in the case of a pregnant woman or in treating a person with burns, infections and recent injuries.
Acupressure is more effective than physical therapy for the majority of patients with low back pain.
Ear acupressure can be used to reduce stress and anxiety.
Acupressure is used to reduce fear and anxiety in trauma victims and in pre-operative care.
Acupressure can be used to treat all these conditions:
Tension Headaches
Migraine Headaches
Jaw Pain, Toothache, Earache
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Wrist, Hand, Arm pain
Backache, Hip, Knee, Ankle and Foot pain
Colds, Flu, Sore throat, Sinus Infection, Loss of Voice
Allergies
Anxiety Attacks and Nervousness
Depression
Insomnia
Fainting
Hiccoughs
Improve Memory and Concentration
Angina, Heart Palpitations and High Blood Pressure
Constipation, Diarrhea, Heartburn and Stomachache
PMS and Painful Periods, Hot Flashes, Pregnancy Discomfort, Morning Sickness
Bed-wetting, Incontinence, Urinary retention
Nose bleeding, Itching, Asthma, Decreased Libido, Hangover
Here are a couple acupressure tips you can try:
For headaches and muscle or joint pain, press the fleshy part of your hand between your thumb and index finger. Hold for this for one minute, then repeat on the other hand.
For low-back pain, lie on your back, with your feet elevated on a sofa or chair. Place two tennis balls under your lower back on either side of your spine. (I got cheap tennis balls in the dog toy department.) Stay in this position for one minute or sooner if it becomes uncomfortable.
For knee pain, put a tennis ball on a pillow, then place your leg over it so the ball is pushing into the crease behind your knee. Find the sensitive spot just below your kneecap and slightly to the outside of the shinbone. Press into it gently with your fingertips for about one minute.
You can learn to do acupressure at home to supplement professional treatment. This is especially useful when you are stricken with illness or pain and you can't get to the doctor soon. For more information see my website http://natural-pain-relief-solutions.com/.

5 Tips For Uniting Your Body, Mind, and Soul

5 Tips For Uniting Your Body, Mind, and Soul
Word Count:
472
Summary:
Do you know what it takes to unite your body, mind, and soul?  If you did, do you realize that you would be able to achieve the balance that nearly everyone wishes they had in their lives?  Do you know what you need to do for yourself in order to bring about this balance?

Keywords:
alternative medicine,holistic medicine,natural medicine

Article Body:
Do you know what it takes to unite your body, mind, and soul?  If you did, do you realize that you would be able to achieve the balance that nearly everyone wishes they had in their lives?  Do you know what you need to do for yourself in order to bring about this balance?
Part of uniting these three elements of your person is knowing what makes you passionate.  Knowing what makes you passionate will help you get in touch with your soul, to feel creative energy, to feel truly alive.  Spiritual or creative passion can help you to achieve those feelings.  Whether it’s through faith, music, or some other type of artistic expression, you must find what will awaken your soul in order to strike balance in your life.  Here are some tips to guide you:
• What are your goals for the future?  What would you like to ultimately achieve in your life?  Is it spiritual enlightenment?  Is it social status?  Or is it merely to be the best person you can be, and make a contribution to society?  What is important, though, is the process by which you attain your ultimate goal.  That is what will generate your passion.
• Try to focus on the positive, and do not dwell on the negative.  Recall you accomplishments and good deeds.  Doing this will help keep you positive, and keep your spirit up.  If you constantly remind yourself of your mistakes, you will find it harder to succeed down the road, and your mind, body, and soul will work against you.
• You’ve heard of finding your “happy place” right?  This form of meditation helps you take your mind and spirit to a comfortable place that fills you with happiness.  This is an ideal thing to do when you are in the middle of a stressful day at work or with the kids; it provides the perfect opportunity to regroup.
• Spark a change.  Plan a vacation, even if it is just for a weekend.  Nothing does the body, mind, and soul better than a little change of scenery.  Go where you will be happy, and be able to let loose and have some fun.  Try it on your own.  It might sound scary, but you will be surprised at how relaxed and refreshed you will be after a weekend all to yourself!
• Try some daily affirmations.  Pick three things that you can say out loud in the mirror that will help you stay centered, positive, and focused.  Saying something often enough has the power to make it true for you.  Remember not to dwell on the negative, focus on the positive.  Three basic affirmations that you can work from include:
o “I am safe and secure.”
o “The Universe gives me everything that I need.”
o “My income will continue to increase.”

4 Natural Home Remedies to Ease the Pain of Sunburn

4 Natural Home Remedies to Ease the Pain of Sunburn
Word Count:
537
Summary:
At some time or another, we’ve all experienced the effects of sunburn – be it a light burn or a more heavy burn. If if you ‘have’ found yourself having spent a little too much time in the sun, here are 4 natural home remedies to help ease the pain of sunburn, and assist in the body’s healing process.

Keywords:
sun exposure, skin cancer, cancer, sunburn, UV exposure, home remedy, alternate remedy, alternative medicine, natural remedy

Article Body:
At some time or another, we’ve all experienced the effects of sunburn – be it a light burn or a more heavy burn.
Although the sting of regret of inadequate protection (from UV exposure) can be an excellent incentive to plan more carefully on ‘future’ occasions, it’s of little help in soothing the immediate physical sting (i.e. pain) accompanying sunburn.
However if you ‘have’ found yourself having spent a little too much time in the sun, -- here are 4 natural home remedies to help ease the pain of sunburn, and assist in the body’s healing process:
1. Cool Milk Compresses: - The fat and lactic acids in milk are known to have soothing qualities for sunburned skin. Soak a soft cloth or cotton gauze in cool whole milk, and dab carefully onto the burned skin. Do this for around 20 minutes, and follow by rinsing off with cool water. (Due to the importance of the milk’s fat content, it’s important that whole milk be used in this treatment).
2. Cool, sugarless tea: - The tannin in tea is the active ingredient here, which helps to soothe and relieve some of the discomfort of sunburned skin. After brewing a big pot of tea, and allowing it to cool completely, slosh the affected areas with a soft sponge or washcloth. As with the vinegar (4), you could also fill a spray bottle, and spray the tea directly on the skin. And don’t throw away the used (cool) teabags. These are especially good for sensitive areas around the eyes – simply place the teabags over your eyes if they feel hot and tired. (If you have ‘St. John’s Wort’, consider using this as it contains cooling properties, which can help tone down some of the heat in your skin, as well as soothing the nerve endings damaged by the sunburn).
3. Aloe Vera: - Aloe Vera is commonly used to treat sunburn. As well as providing soothing relief, it may also assist in the healing process. Apply to the affected areas as needed. Although the gel extracted directly from an aloe Vera plant works best, if you don’t have ready access to one, you may use an ‘over the counter’ Aloe Vera Cream that contains the gel. For this to be effective, just ensure that the cream contains a high concentration of Aloe Vera than it does water or other solutions.
4. Water: - When exposed to the sun, your body loses water and essential body salts. Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much fluid, and begins to reabsorb fluid from the blood and other body tissues. To prevent the consequences of dehydration, increase your fluid intake to ensure you adequately re-hydrate your body for optimum recovery and health.
Sunburn should of course be avoided where possible -- particularly as it’s adverse affects not only include damage to the skin, but also the increased risk of skin cancer. Prevention and protection should always be considered the best treatment for sunburn, and will assist in ensuring your optimum long-term health!
DISCLAIMER: These are home remedy tips only, and should not replace your regular health care provider. If in doubt at any time in relation to your sunburn, please seek the appropriate health care assistance.