Category Archives: Holistic Health

Natural Remedies & Homeopathy

Why I Still Love Homeopathy

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I write about many different natural and alternative things you can do to build your health and wellness on this blog. But, I want to share a purely anecdotal story about Homeopathy, because after all, it is the primary treatment I use for the people who come into my clinic. In fact, it’s the reason that I started out on this gentle journey to better health myself.

Many people don’t even realise that Homeopathy can be pretty darn useful for treating acute illnesses like flu, coughs and colds, diarrhea, vomiting, viral infections, hay fever, headaches, teething, nausea and so on, you get the idea. When people come in to see me many say they “have tried everything else and so may as well try Homeopathy”. Often it’s only used when things have reached rock bottom and some think of it as a last resort.

But Homeopathy can be an excellent treatment for acute illnesses when used according to homeopathic principles, and something to consider before starting a course of antibiotics.

Once I discovered how beautifully and quickly well-matched simplex Homeopathic remedies worked to treat acute illness it was all I ever used for my children. We headed out to the Homeopath, right past the doctor, whenever they got sick.

One of my sons, now 25, has not taken antibiotics at all since he was 3 years old, which was when I first discovered Homeopathy. The youngest has grown up using only Homeopathic remedies, and has only had antibiotics ONCE EVER, when he developed a terrible infection after swimming beside a sewage outlet at a beach in Thailand. He had no homeopathic remedies with him that time. The others are also healthy. Antibiotics didn’t get used in our house at all after we turned to Homeopathy. That’s a pretty awesome record!

Homeopathy at Home

So, here is what’s been happening at my house this week, and it’s a perfect example of why I love Homeopathy so much.

I’m a pretty good prescriber of Homeopathic remedies for acute illnesses. There is a bit of a knack to this, and the way that my brain processes information happens to be well suited to this type of prescribing.

However, when I get sick myself it is another matter altogether, because it takes a clear head to find a good match between a “Symptom Picture” in a patient and a “Homeopathic Remedy Picture”. Getting that match right is what gets the results – a really close match equals a great result, a so-so match equals some improvement, maybe. Trying to find a remedy for yourself when you’re unwell can be a near-impossible task when your brain feels like it’s made of cotton wool and is being squeezed between a tight vice

I regularly run a Short Course for parents to learn how to prescribe homeopathic remedies for first aid and first stage acute illnesses for themselves and their family. Any of these students will agree you need a clear head to get the remedy selection right.

Like most of you, when I am sick my brain just doesn’t work clearly and I often struggle to prescribe for myself in that state, which is what I want to tell you about.

My husband came home last week and brought with him one of the nastiest, most violent coughs I have ever seen which he promptly shared with me…violent cough, headache to knock you out, sore throat etc etc…winter illness at its worst! The pair of us sat hacking away in unison all weekend, each just as sick as the other. I endured it, my head too foggy to even think about what remedy to take. But every night when I lay down to get to sleep it was just getting worse and worse, getting to sleep was a nightmare.

Homeopathic Relief

Then came the night when I was coughing so badly I had to go and sit in the bathroom as I was certain I was going to throw up from it. I sat on the edge of the bath coughing it out and realized it was ‘do or die’, I needed to rally enough to find a remedy match fast. It was heading towards 1am, but I gathered my books, and really focused, in spite of the brain fog, and came up with a remedy very quickly, which I made up and took straight away.

Five minutes later, all my coughing, wheezing, headache and breathlessness had stopped and I dropped off to sleep.

The next morning instead of waking to a major coughing fit I was pretty good. I took another dose then and a couple more in the days since. My voice is still a little hoarse and I cough once in a while, but otherwise I am good, none of the severe symptoms have returned and I feel great, full of energy.

This is what happens when a really good Homeopathic prescription is made for an acute illness. Symptoms may be stopped in their tracks. But even better is that you feel great and full of energy even though to others you might still sound a bit sick. It is almost as if your body ‘knows’ that it has got on top of this virus and the battle is on its way to being won.  You feel it is ok to go about your life again because you don’t need to ‘conserve your strength’, to crawl into bed to recuperate.

My husband?

Well he has an on/off relationship with Homeopathy which it seems is turned to ‘off’ right now, so he is letting nature take its course. He didn’t go to work today and spent the day lying in bed, unable to move, coughing his lungs out every time he woke up, feeling like death.

Homeopathy’s Still Impressive

I realise this is only a winter virus, although certainly a pretty nasty one, but this story is a perfect example of how Homeopathy can be so useful for treating acute illnesses.

I have been working as a Homeopath for thirteen years now and I repeatedly see how so many who come through my clinic experience an improvement in their health quickly and effectively when they use Homeopathy to treat their health problems. Watching the amazing response in my son twenty-two years ago was how I was first introduced to this treatment, that I had never even heard of, and you can read about that right here.

But, in spite of what I know and have seen over all those years, of what I expect to see happen, I sometimes still sit in my clinic, listening to clients tell of the changes they have experienced after taking their prescribed Homeopathic remedies. In spite of what experience has taught me good Homeopathic prescribing is capable of, there are still times when I am just blown away by the response the person has experienced, and the extent of their improvement.

It doesn’t happen all the time by any means, but when it does it still amazes me, and that is the main reason why I love being a Homeopath and why I still love the amazing possibilities of Homeopathy.

When the symptoms of an illness that someone is experiencing are matched perfectly to the correct Homeopathic remedy, and that remedy is taken according to homeopathic principles, at the correct potency to match the strength of the illness, it is as if the body, or the immune system if you will, is suddenly jolted into action, and the rapid healing response that follows is an absolute joy to watch.

water-lily-flower

I realize that this is just one example and ‘does not a case for Homeopathy make’, but when you watch a response like this happen there is no doubt that there are powerful possibilities here, and the intellectual questions about how it can be happening get brushed to the side.

But, as with all things, everyone has their own path to follow. The Homepathic road was the one for my family but it may not be for you.

Have you ever experienced or observed one of these very rapid responses to treatment with a perfectly matched Homeopathic remedy? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Disclaimer

All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

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Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Stress & Overwhelm

Is Your Thyroid Causing Your Poor Health?

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For many people an underactive thyroid slows them down and leads to a host of other unpleasant symptoms.  Most of those people are never diagnosed with the disorder. Many are never treated. So many fail to make changes to their diet and lifestyle that help ease their symptoms. Most go on living their life in a debilitated state.

The Thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland in the middle of the front of your throat. Its purpose is to release hormones that help in the regulation of many body functions including metabolism, heart rate, maintaining core temperature, healthy skin, weight, fertility and more.

The thyroid gland slows you down or revs you up to make you more energetic. It also activates your immune system. It plays a part in most of the body’s physiological processes, so when it is out of balance, so are you. In fact every cell in your body has receptors for thyroid hormones.

Sometimes the thyroid does not work as it should and, depending on whether it is pumping out too many hormones or too few, it becomes under-active or over-active. This is known as either Hyperthyroidism, too many thyroid hormones in the blood, or Hypothyroidism, too few.

Thyroid conditions can be quite common and it is estimated that about 20-25% of the female population may suffer from hypothyroidism. An estimated 30% more of people over the age of 35 may suffer from ‘subclinical’ hypothyroidism. This is where they either have no obvious symptoms, or their test results are within the ‘normal’ range, but they have mild symptoms of low thyroid function.

Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction

Many people live with the symptoms of low thyroid function for years, where their thyroid gland works sluggishly without them even realising it. With too few thyroid hormones in the blood the body processes start slowing down, and so does the person.

However, there are some telltale signs to look out for. Here are some of them, although there are many more:

  • Fluid retention or swelling in the legs, feet, arms or face
  • Cold hands or feet, poor circulation and intolerance of cold
  • Dry skin, acne and eczema
  • Lethargy, fatigue, poor stamina and sleeepiness
  • Forgetfulness, slow cognitive function, brain fog
  • Depression
  • Constipation, indigestion
  • Weight gain, or difficulty losing weight
  • Poor brittle, slow-growing nails and hair, hair loss
  • Heavy periods, irregular cycle, PMS
  • Infertility, low libido
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle and joint aches and pains
  • Food cravings, food intolerances, hypoglycaemia
  • High cholesterol/ triglycerides, palpitations, high or very low blood pressure

Illnesses where symptoms seem vague or scattered could actually be providing warning signs that you have a problem with your thyroid. Diseases and syndromes such as chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, menopausal symptoms, muscle and joint pains, IBS, PMS, heart disease or depression, may also be connected with thyroid problems. They all have a wide variance in the symptoms they present with and each may be improved when underlying thyroid issues are addressed. Sometimes an underactive thyroid can be due to an autoimmune disease, Hashimoto’s disease.

Adrenal Stress

However, low thyroid function may actually not be the root of the problem. There is a strong relationship between your adrenal and thyroid glands and it is very common for adrenal fatigue to go hand-in-hand with hypothyroidism. In many cases the adrenal glands become weakened, leading to a malfunctioning thyroid gland. If treatment is only directed towards the thyroid gland and the adrenal issues are not addressed, then the person’s health will simply not improve.

It’s important to reduce stress in your life as both the adrenals and the thyroid are very sensitive to stress. Practicing meditation, yoga, qi gong, or relaxation techniques goes a long way to reducing the stress response and supports the action of these glands.

Thyroid Hormones

Two hormones, T4 and T3 are produced by the thyroid. T3 is the active form and is the one that does the vast majority of work in the body. When levels are low enough the traditional approach is to use synthetic hormone, but they only contain T4 and the problem with this is that most people have difficulty converting T4 into T3.

Thyroid hormone levels can be tested with a blood test. If symptoms are vague and do not point directly to a disorder, testing will probably be done alongside other blood tests. The normal range for tests is 0.5 to 5.5 IU/ml.

The problem for many people is that they suffer symptoms of low thyroid function even though their measured levels of the hormone are between 2.0 IU/ml and 5.5IU/ml, levels considered to show ‘normal’ thyroid function. They are told their levels are normal and left with no explanation or treatment for their symptoms. When it comes to thyroid hormones, setting the boundaries of ‘normal’ for thyroid levels is very misleading. There really isn’t any ‘normal’ level as the levels change depending on factors such as age or health.

The Delicate Hormone Dance

All the different hormones in the body work together in a delicate dance and when one is not working all the others are affected also. Many reproductive hormone-related symptoms may be experienced when thyroid hormones are low. PMS, infertility, fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, heavy bleeding, menopause symptoms, fibrocystic breasts or even post-natal depression may all result.

Low thyroid function can easily be confused with the symptoms of menopause. While symptoms such as hot flushes, period irregularities, weight gain, night sweats and insomnia are often experienced during perimenopause or menopause, night sweats and insomnia in particular, may also be key symptoms of low thyroid function.

Using hormone replacement to deal with these symptoms simply makes the problem worse, as the oestrogen in the medications further interferes with the thyroid hormones, impairing the thyroid function even more. This in turn slows down metabolism and leads to weight gain. It is a vicious circle.

As usual it is easy to point the finger at poor diet and lifestyle as contributing factors to thyroid dysfunction and sugar, processed foods, stress, lack of exercise or toxic environments all play their part.

What You Can Do

Low thyroid function can be addressed in a number of more natural ways.

I treat many people, mainly women, for low thyroid function with great success using carefully selected Homeopathic remedies. These reverse their debilitating symptoms and allow them to live a normal life. But with this being a complicated chronic issue it is not one that can be self-treated and requires careful prescribing by a fully trained professional Homeopath.

But luckily there are a number of things that you can do as a first-line defense for hypothyroidism, and using natural methods avoids the side effects of medications.

Diet

A well-balanced diet made up of unprocessed, unrefined whole foods, with organic or biodynamic vegetables, fruits, meat and dairy, is the best way to combat hypothyroidism, if you also include the following guidelines.

It’s important that you stay away from sugar and caffeine which simply cause thyroid burn-out. If going ‘cold turkey’ is too hard then cut these back more gradually. Cut out refined and processed carbohydrates as well as they behave just like sugar when they are metabolised in your body.

Make sure to eat protein as it transports thyroid hormone into your cells. Include nuts, nut butters, legumes, quinoa, and less frequently and in smaller quantities eggs, meats, fish and dairy.

Good fats help to create hormone balance, including thyroid hormones. Avocados, one of my favourite good fat sources, coconuts, coconut milk and coconut oil, olives and olive oil, raw nuts and nut butters, organic butter and yoghurt, organic egg yolks, flax seeds are great choices. Avoid trans fats.

Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin A, Vitamin D, the Vitamin B’s, iodine, selenium, zinc, copper, iron and omega-3 essential fatty acids. Organic produce will be higher in vitamins and minerals as long as it isn’t old and wilting.

Thyroid hormone production is just another of the many functions of Vitamin D which is produced in the body from sunlight. This is yet another reason to have levels of this crucial vitamin tested and maintained, and you may actually need to supplement this.

Cut out gluten especially if you have Hashimoto’s as the gluten mimics thyroid tissue and aggravates the autoimmune response.

Watch out for foods that interfere with thyroid function especially those containing goitrogens and don’t eat them unless they are cooked. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, turnips, spinach, strawberries, peanuts, and millet are all ones to avoid.

Get tested for food sensitivities, especially if you find there is a food or food group that you crave, as eating these foods sets up an autoimmune response in the body.

The thyroid gland requires iodine to make thyroid hormones so iodine deficiency may be a contributing factor to hypothyroidism. Many people are deficient in iodine so include more sources of iodine in your diet like seaweed, kelp, dulce and nori, shellfish, saltwater fish, eggs, yoghurt, mozzarella cheese

Supplements

Take probiotics as good thyroid function depends on healthy gut flora.

Add vitamins and minerals particularly if you are not getting adequate amounts in your diet.

Other supplements that help thyroid activity and the manufacture of thyroid hormones are Tyrosine, Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), magnesium citrate and Potassium iodide. Look for these in a combined thyroid supplement.

Herbs

Ashwaganda can help improve the level of T4 hormone and Commiphora wightii (common name guggul), can help convert the T4 into the active T3. Guggul has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and is now difficult to source due to its scarcity after overuse.

Exercise

Exercise lowers insulin levels and increases thyroid function. Work out or walk for 40 minutes three times a week and make sure you get out of breath.

Exercise lowers insulin levels and increases thyroid function
Disclaimer

The Information contained on this site is for your general health information. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes. The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional healthcare. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

© Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health, 2012. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health with appropriate and specific direction

Source articles:

http://www.thyroid.org/what-is-hypothyroidism/

http://www.drnorthrup.com/womenshealth/healthcenter/topic_details.php?topic_id=59

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2010/01/02/Many-Symptoms-Suggest-Sluggish-Thyroid.aspx

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-3139/13-Ways-to-Treat-Hypothyroidism-Naturally.html

http://www.elliotthealthcare.com/low_thyroid.htm

http://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/truth-protein-carbs-fats-thyroid-health

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Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Nature's Rhythms

Ah-Choooooo! Scratch, Scratch! It’s Allergy Season

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Allergies are the bane of so many people’s life these days making it difficult for them to function well in their everyday life.

Allergies occur when your immune system is hypersensitive. When an allergen comes into contact with any mucous membrane surface – the respiratory tract, digestive tract, the eyes – it sets up an inflammation which causes the symptoms. Food Intolerances are different to allergies and are the result of an inability to digest or absorb foods. But the symptoms of each can be very similar and often confused. Symptoms from allergy usually develop quickly.

The incidence of food allergy is growing. In 2011 an Australian study, the Health Nuts Study, found that 10% out of 5000 infants demonstrated food allergy. This is the highest rate in the world and we should be alarmed about why the incidence is rising so rapidly.

The most common allergic reactions usually fall into four groups.
  •       Anaphylaxis – a life-threatening reaction where the airways can swell
  •       Skin symptoms – eczema, dermatitis, welts and hives
  •       Eye reactions – conjunctivitis, redness, itching and watering
  •       Hay Fever or Rhinitis

Some asthmas are caused by allergies. Anaphylaxis is a more serious allergic response and is potentially life-threatening. One of my children experienced this on a number of occasions from milk and butter when he was young and beestings later, and it is a very scary situation. It usually occurs very quickly and affects multiple body systems. It needs an immediate dose of adrenalin to reverse it.

There is now evidence which suggests that the increased use of antibiotics may have something to do with the increase in allergies and asthma because it upsets the normal balance of gut flora and leads to confusion within the immune system so that it is unable to tell the difference between harmless substances and bacteria, viruses and parasites. It is also thought that our higher hygiene standards may have contributed, by exposing us to fewer pathogens, which leads to your body attacking harmless antigens instead.

Allergies are the bane of so many people’s life these days Photo credit: Brooke Novak

There are many common things to which people develop an allergy. Allergens could be any of the following:

  •      Foods such as gluten or wheat, milk and dairy foods, seafood and shellfish, alcohol, soy, eggs, peanuts, nuts, seeds, tomatoes, alcohol
  •      Environmental factors such as dust, dust mites, pollen, mould, animal fur, grasses
  •      Man-made substances such as medications, pesticides, latex, nickel
  •      Insects including cockroaches, dust mites, caterpillars, bees or wasps

While there are a number of over the counter and prescription medications for allergies, they all put lots of strain on your liver as it has to detox the medications. This may actually exacerbate the condition. Most people have used antihistamines to gain relief from the symptoms of hay fever at some time, but the ongoing prospect of having to take loads of pharmaceuticals, to say nothing of the debilitating side effects they cause, is not at all appealing. Western medicine stresses ongoing medications and avoidance of exposure but this is not always possible.

Deal with allergies in more natural way

The best way to get rid of the problem of allergies is with professional advice from a Natural Medicine Practitioner.

But there are many ways that you can get relief for your allergy symptoms using a host of ‘Kitchen Remedies’. Anaphylaxis must always be regarded as a medical emergency and treated accordingly. If you experience an anaphylactic reaction, get emergency medical help immediately. But the next time allergy strikes with other symptoms, try out some of these tips before you reach for the antihistamine. Then follow up with a visit to a Natural Health practitioner to seek long-term relief.

 Please read my disclaimer below before reading on.

Kitchen Remedies

Respiratory passages

For sinuses and nasal congestion put some olive oil in your palm and sprinkle some black pepper into it. Breathe the aroma in. It makes you sneeze which removes the allergens in your nose.

Many people swear by Neti pots. Fill the Neti pot with a saline solution then pour the solution through your sinuses to flush the allergens and irritation from your sinuses. Use a pre-made saline rinse or make one yourself by dissolving 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt, or sea salt as a second choice, in 1 litre of boiled distilled water. Allow it to cool completely and put it in the Neti pot. Pour it through one nostril and allow it to drain out the other. Make sure you rinse the irrigation device after you use it with boiled distilled water and leave it to ‘air-dry’.

Peppermint tea is a great decongestant which can unclog sinuses and improve breathing. It is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Chamomile tea is a natural anti-inflammatory and may reduce the duration of hay fever attacks.

Eating food drenched in wasabi will clear out your sinuses in an instant. So head for the sushi bar if you need a quick clear when you are out and about.

Showering as soon as you come back inside after being outdoors can be an easy way to get quick allergy relief. It can help remove allergens from your skin and hair and the steam will help to clear nasal cavities, although it will usually be only temporarily.

Even just inhaling the steam over a bowl of hot water can flush out the mucous just as well as a shower. Add a few drops of Eucalyptus essential oil and carefully inhale the steam for an even better result.

Skin reactions

A colloidal oatmeal mask for hives or eczema. You can either add  2 or 3 cups straight to the bathwater where it disperses and stays in suspension rather than settling to the bottom, or make a paste to spread over the affected area. To make the paste you need 1-2 tablespoons of Colloidal Oatmeal. You can make your own if you cannot buy it. Add warm water until you get the desired consistency. Spread on your skin and leave for a few minutes

Apple cider vinegar has long been recognised for its wonderful healing properties. Dilute a little in water and dab onto any itchy area. Great for dry eczema, hives or bed bug bites.

Mixing Bicarbonate of Soda (Baking Soda) with a little water to form a paste to spread on the skin will help stop the itching. You can also add it to a warm bath and soak in it for twenty minutes if the reaction area is more widespread.

Nettle is often used to relieve allergies as it is a natural antihistamine which targets the immune system. As well as drinking your nettle tea you can also use it topically. Allow it to cool and then use a cloth or gauze to dab it on the itchy spots where it will give relief. You could also take 300 to 500 mg of stinging nettle capsules each day.

A strong brew of dried anti-inflammatory chamomile flowers steeped for fifteen minutes or more then cooled and strained, can be applied to eczema for about 20 minutes with gauze or a cloth for itchiness relief. You can use it three times a day.

Basil is another herb that contains anti-allergenic components and it will give relief for hives. Boil a couple of leaves in water. Once the tea has cooled down apply it topically on the hives.

Organic cold pressed coconut oil can be applied topically and gives relief to many sufferers.

Aloe vera gel is useful, especially when it comes from freshly cut leaves.

Water that has had thin cucumber slices soaked in it for a few hours and then filtered can be applied to the area with a clean gauze or cloth.

Eye reactions

For puffiness place slices of cold raw potato on your eyes

To relieve itchy, dry or watery eyes try making a compress from chamomile or black tea bags that have been steeped in boiling water and allowed to cool. Leave on for five minutes. Choose organic teabags as many chemicals are used to bleach the bag material that may aggravate already inflamed eyes. Even better if you refrigerate the teabags first.

A wonderful eyewash can be made to soothe itchy eyes by diluting non-alcoholic calendula liquid in water.

And last but not least, don’t forget to drink lots of water which helps with sinus drainage and congestion. It seems as though I say to do this in every post, but almost everybody drinks too little water and dehydration, even when it is mild, contributes to many health problems. With allergies, dehydration makes your mouth and throat dry and your mucous thickens.

Do you have a great ‘Kitchen Remedy’ that you use for your allergies? Share it in the replies below.

Check back again soon as I will write more about allergies and food intolerances (lactose and gluten).

Photo credit: Sylvia McFadden
Photo credit: Sylvia McFadden

Disclaimer.

All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

Source articles:

http://wellnessmama.com/8370/7-natural-remedies-for-allergy-relief/

http://www.naturalnews.com/036292_eczema_home_remedies_skin_disease.html

http://www.great-natural-home-remedies.org/home-remedies/allergies.html

http://www.besthealthmag.ca/get-healthy/home-remedies/natural-home-remedies-hives

Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Sleep, Uncategorized

Do You Dream Of Dreaming…If Only You Could Fall Sleep?

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It seems almost everyone I’ve spoken to over the past week has had problems sleeping, whether it’s in getting to sleep, waking during the night or, for those that are sleeping, having vivid crazy dreams. Insomnia, or sleeplessness, can be either an inability to fall asleep or waking up through the night before the expected waking time. As anyone who has ever experienced a poor night’s sleep knows, the impact of sleeplessness shows up the next day as a reduced ability to concentrate, lethargy, and fragile emotions.

The body actually requires sleep just as it does water, food and oxygen in order to function. Without sleep we would literally go crazy. When insomnia is long term, more than 3-4 weeks, it can have a major impact on our health, leading to memory problems, depression, irritability, with an increased risk of heart disease.

Tossing and turning for hours on end, worrying about not being able to get to sleep, or being unable to switch off can be very frustrating, and can even worsen the insomnia. The more you try to sleep, the more frustrated you get and the harder sleep becomes.

For many people insomnia is an ongoing issue that has some pretty big repercussions on their life. While it can be caused by many things, for a large number it is often the result of poor sleep behaviour, sometimes resulting from patterns established during childhood.

Some Causes of Poor Sleep

Quite a number of poor lifestyle habits can actually be the cause or sleeplessness, or else worsen it. Here are a few of them. If you recognise any of these, you may need to address them.

·         Going to bed at different times each night

·         Daytime napping

·         Poor sleeping environment, such as too much noise or light. Your bedroom should be a ‘haven of calm’

·         Spending too much time in bed while you are still awake

·         Working evening or night shifts

·         Not getting enough exercise

·         Using the television, computer, or smartphone in bed 

Medications

The use of some medications and drugs may also affect sleep.

  • Alcohol may help you fall asleep initially but generally leads to waking up through the night.
  • Too much caffeine is a well-known cause of insomnia, especially when it is drunk later in the day.
  • A number of medications, including cold medicines and diet pills can cause poor sleep. Be very careful about self-prescribing unless you know exactly the effects of whatever you are taking. Some herbs and supplements can lead to insomnia.
  • Heavy smoking can be a problem for sleep.
  • If you take sleeping pills regularly it is easy to become used to them, so they stop working as well as they did initially.
Lifestyle

In addition to lifestyle habits there are a number of other physical, social, and mental health issues that can affect sleep patterns, including: anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, feeling sad or depressed, physical pain or discomfort, stress whether it is short-term or long-term.

CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS

However sometimes there is just no obvious reason for sleeplessness.

We each have our own inbuilt body clock called the circadian rhythm, that regulates our sleep patterns. This is what makes us fall asleep at night and wake up again the next morning. The body clock is easily thrown out by overseas flying, rotating shift work, or even a few late nights. When your body clock gets disrupted, you experience symptoms like jet lag.

Taking sleeping pills to help you sleep often leaves you with a ‘hangover’ effect which is something you can avoid by using natural cures instead.

RESET YOUR BODY CLOCK NATURALLY

For many the prospect of sleeping like a baby, anywhere, anytime seems like a remote daydream. But there are a number of very effective natural remedies with proven success that may offer relief. They can help you to reset the body clock so you can get back to good sleeping patterns.

Here are a few that have proven success.

For many the prospect of sleeping like a baby, anywhere, anytime seems like a remote daydream. There are some natural remedies with proven success that may offer relief.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain which helps to relax us so that we can fall asleep. It is known for its ability to rebalance your body clock and is often used to treat jet lag. It is usually released in the absence of light, but we need to have spent time in daylight in order to make enough melatonin in the first place. This is why it is recommended that you spend time outside after you have flown a long-haul flight.

Taking a melatonin supplement can help to reset the body clock. But if you prefer to use food as medicine you can address melatonin deficiency with foods that boost serotonin as melatonin is made from serotonin. Some of these foods are raw cacao, magnesium, fish oils and herbal tea containing hops, chamomile, ashwaganda and lemon balm.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy has a marvelous history treating insomnia. There are many Homeopathic remedies that work to reset your body’s sleep patterns, calm your mind and get restful sleep. While there are a number of combination mixes available over the counter, the ones that have the deepest and most long-lasting effect are those that are prescribed individually by a Homeopath to suit your individual insomnia symptoms.

Some remedies that a Homeopathic practitioner may consider for insomnia are:

  • Arsenicum Album which is useful when anxiety, fear, or worry prevents sleep
  • Coffea for when you are unable to sleep because your thoughts are too active or you are excited about a surprise, or good or bad news
  • Nux-vomica helps when you’re very irritable, waking between 2-4am with racing thoughts only to fall asleep again about daybreak. This is accompanied by much stress caused by overstudy or work
  • Ignatia is for sleeplessness after disappointment or grief
  • Passiflora for restless sleeplessness with exhaustion

The choice between these and many more homeopathic remedies that help with insomnia would depend on these and all the other symptoms you were experiencing. For good results check with a professional Homeopath as remedies need to be selected and taken according to homeopathic principles.

Herbs

There is a number of herbs that are very useful to induce sleep. Valerian root is one that is quite well known and often used. It is quite powerful and often used for quick results when changing time zones. Valerian is useful when you have difficulty staying asleep. Some people however get the opposite effect from valerian and can get hyped-up after taking it. Valerian is good when combined with Passionflower which helps you to fall asleep initially.

Some other herbs that can be helpful are Kava which is once again available after having been taken off the market for a while. It can be used for short-term relief. It is good to relieve anxiety in the moment.

Skullcap is great to use when you are very hyped-up and just can’t slow down, or are experiencing anxiety and are emotionally stressed. You can use it for longer periods.

Aromatherapy

Essential Oils can help bring on sleep. While there are a number of oils that induce sleep, lavender has long been recognised as being the ‘Queen of Calm’. Lavender essential oil will effectively calm down overwrought nervous systems. A few drops added to a warm bath before bed or on a cotton ball under the pillow should bring on sleep.

SETTING A PERFECT SLEEP ENVIRONMENT

Make sure your sleeping environment is calm and serene. THE KEY IS TO SWITCH OFF. Leave your worries at the bedroom door. Switch off all gadgets, put phones in flight mode, iPad, laptop, TV etc. Take some time to settle down and relax.

Set aside 30 minutes before bed as ‘unwind and de-stress time’. Read a good book, write your journal, listen to soft music, anything that you find relaxes you and does not involve an electronic gadget. Remember, exposure to artificial light (electronics) before going to bed increases your alertness and suppresses melatonin and so will keep you awake.

So, here’s to a great sleep.

What are some of the ways you deal with sleeplessness? Tell us in the comments below

Worrying about not being able to get to sleep can worsen the insomnia

Disclaimer.

All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

    Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Uncategorized

    Homeopathy To The Rescue in Homeopathy Awareness Week

    4 Comments

    May is an important month for Homeopaths here in Australia as it marks the celebration of Homeopathy Awareness Week (13th – 19th May). This year the theme is ‘Homeopathy To The Rescue’ and the focus is on the ways Homeopathy can, and has been used in the treatment of trauma and disasters.

    The purpose of this annual celebration is to get you all to notice the impact Homeopathy has on a global scale and to start you thinking about how Homeopathy could be useful in your life.

    While there is a long history of Homeopathy being used with wonderful results during epidemics and after disasters, using Homeopathic medicine to deal with the small traumas of your everyday life is where many people first encounter the healing benefits of the remedies.

    Homeopathic Arnica

    Homeopathic Arnica is one remedy that I would have been lost without in raising my four sons, and in fact I cannot imagine how the Mums of active boys manage without it. When my boys were young, they played a lot of sport, basketball, AFL football, baseball, hockey, netball, gymnastics, and rock climbing, to say nothing of rough and rowdy games through the bushland around our home.

    In addition to the kit of remedies I have at home, I always carried a Homeopathic First Aid kit in the boot of my car so we would have what we needed when we were out and about. In this kit was trusty Arnica.

    Arnica is loved for its effect on soft tissue damage. However, homeopaths often reach for Arnica as the first remedy to heal anyone affected by shock, trauma or injury. Here it acts on the emotional or spiritual shock as well as on the physical shock.

    Arnica has lots of uses but it is perhaps best known for its benefits to damaged soft tissue. It has amazing healing properties for muscle damage showing as bruising, swelling and aching. At sporting events, particularly football, I soon became known as the go-to-girl for help when the boys were hurt on the field, and parents would often come to me asking for some arnica for their son.

    In fact,one year it actually saved one of my boys team from despair, because Arnica was the remedy that ensured the team a place in the Grand Final, which they then won! How? At half time the star player, the full forward, the one who does most of the goal scoring, was taken off the field because someone had stomped on his hand and there were four distinct dark bruises on his palm from the ‘stops’ on the boot’s sole. I gave him one dose of Arnica at the start of half time, and by the time the second half started twenty minutes later, the bruising had almost disappeared, so he was allowed to play, and to go on and kick the winning goal.

    Arnica to the rescue.

    Over the course of many years of kids sport there were many, many other instances of parents being able to watch bruising or swellings, like ‘eggs’ on the head, actually go right down over a very short time, and so the Arnica was often sought out.

    Arnica got these boys through the injuries with minimal fuss and allowed them to get back out to their game.

    Arnica is a remedy that I give to many of my patients and not just the boys. Many people use it after they have had a big workout at the gym, or a hard day in the garden to relieve the aches and pains. Others use it after having dental work. It is a remedy that many now value in their home first aid kit, and the first remedy they think of for injuries and trauma.

    A meadow of Arnica montana growing wild in Belgium

    What is Arnica?

    Homeopathic Arnica Montana is made from a small plant of the Compositae family. It grows in the mountain pastures of mainland Europe where for centuries it had a long history of use as a herbal to treat bruises, sprains, rheumatic pain, emotional shock, hematoma and oedema.

    Today, Arnica creams are widely used in the sports industry, and in fact a number of Olympic athletes have found them helpful in reaching the pinnacle of their chosen sport. Here is a very long list of sports stars using Homeopathic Arnica.

    Arnica has an affinity with the blood vessels, repairing them so that bruising and stagnation is able to dissipate from the site of the wound.

    The benefit of Arnica, as you read in the story of my son’s football team, is that it speeds up the healing process. The bruising passes quickly, aching muscles return to normal faster, swelling subsides quickly, allowing a faster return to training, the game, or everyday activity.

    When to Use Arnica

    Although I make some suggestions here for when Arnica may be helpful, I do not advocate using it without consulting your Homeopath first. Whilst Homeopathic remedies are very gentle they need to be prescribed with an understanding of how they work in order to be used effectively and safely. In addition if you have a seious accident or injury it is essential to get checked out for concussions, broken bones or other serious damage. But, even when these do occur Arnica can be useful to speed the healing process.

    • After accidents where there is shock
    • After an injury that leaves bruising of muscles
    • After an injury that leaves soft tissue swollen and sore
    • After over-exerting yourself
    • After surgery or dental work

    Because Homeopathy Awareness Week is about using Homeopathy to deal with trauma this year, I am once again running my very popular short course “HOMEOPATHY @ HOME – TREATING ACUTE & FIRST AID AILMENTS”   beginning during Homeopathy Awareness Week, where you learn when and how to use thirty Homeopathic remedies, including Arnica, that will completely change the way you deal with acute illnesses and accidents in your family.

    If you have missed this course but would like to join one later, check back again for details of the next course as I run it once every year.

    If you would like to read about the latest research and thoughts on how Homeopathy might work, you may like to read Dana Ullman’s summary in this article published last week in The Huffington Post

    But for those who have used Homeopathic medicine with enormous success the question is NOT how it works, or even whether it works. They have seen many times, that it does work effectively and that is enough reason to continue to love and use this remarkable treatment.

    I don’t know how it works, nobody does yet. No doubt as research delves deeper and our knowledge grows, just how Homeopathic medicines work will become clearer. After all, in medicine there are also many medications and anaesthetics that were used and seen to be effective, long before the mechanism of how they work was known.

    If you’ve had a positive experience using Arnica let us know about it in the comments below.

    Disclaimer.

    All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

    Source articles:

    http://www.arnica.com.au/arnica.php

    http://www.fao.org/ag/AGp/agpc/doc/Gbase/data/pf000462.htm

    http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail182.php

    http://drnancymalik.wordpress.com/2012/06/30/sports-medicine/

    http://homeopathyforyou.com.au/trauma/arnica-to-the-rescue-for-injuries/

    Holistic Health, Uncategorized

    How Come So Many Avoid Gluten?

    7 Comments

     

    Are you Sensitive to the ‘G’ Word?

    How many people do you know that have stopped eating gluten? Maybe you have done this yourself.

    Increasingly, when clients first come in to see me, they say that they have taken themselves off gluten, or sometimes that they did so in the past but are now eating gluten once more. Some saw improvement in their symptoms, others not.

    The incidence of Coeliac disease is on the rise. But in addition to those diagnosed with celiac disease there are many more with a gluten sensitivity. This is an inability to digest the protein gluten found in some grains. One study done by the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota showed that intolerance of wheat gluten is four times more common today that it was in the 1950’s.

    The way for the gluten sensitive to stop the effects of the undigested gluten on their body is, as with Coeliac disease, to avoid eating the foods.

    Gluten sensitivity causes inflammation and an autoimmune response where the immune system starts to attack the body. The New England Journal of Medicine lists thirty-five diseases caused by gluten sensitivity including ADHD and depression. In these days of rising concern about the rising incidence of diseases caused by inappropriate diet it is significant that gluten sensitivity increases your risk for Type 1 Diabetes, obesity, gastrointestinal cancers, brain disorders, autism and thyroid disease. Unfortunately, your risk of developing these diseases increases dramatically when there is a delay in proper diagnosis.

    Modern Wheat vs Traditional Wheat

    Modern wheat is different to old wheat varieties, as the proportion of gluten in wheat has increased enormously due to hybridization in modern wheat grains. Also, prior to the 19th Century wheat was always mixed with other grains, legumes or nuts when it was milled. Pure refined white flour has only been around for about 200 years.

    The modern Western diet is extremely grain heavy and so the consumption of gluten has also increased significantly. Many people may have developed their sensitivity to gluten because of overexposure. Gluten is added purposefully to products because it increases the hunger signals in the body and so you want to eat more of that product. I have heard, although haven’t verified, that up to ten times the amount of naturally occurring gluten is added to fluffy, white packaged bread.

    When foods are in their natural state the components work synergistically, they balance each other and work together. But when one component is added or removed it becomes more difficult for the body to metabolise the food properly. This is why you are constantly encouraged to eat ‘Whole Foods’ which are balanced.

    DO YOU HAVE A GLUTEN SENSITIVITY?

    Here are some signs that might indicate that you do.

    • The most obvious ones to look for are gastrointestinal and include bloating, wind, cramping, queasiness and nausea, constipation or diarrhea or both of them alternating.
    • Headaches and migraines can be caused by gluten
    • Connective tissue (tendons, ligaments) or muscle aches and pains
    • Dizziness, balance problems, tingling or numbness in your fingers and toes, or pain or weakness in the extremities.
    • Sudden mood shifts, chronic irritability, depression
    • Tiredness and fatigue, either chronic or occurring after every meal, chronic  fatigue syndrome (CFS)
    • Weight loss and weight gain
    • Eczema
    • Infertility, irregular menstrual cycles and miscarriage
    • Symptoms get worse with emotional trauma and stress

    The difficulty is that these symptoms are common to many diseases which makes it difficult to definitely attribute them to gluten sensitivity. You don’t actually need to be diagnosed with any specific disease (like CFS or Fibromyalgia) or a gluten sensitivity to test out whether your symptoms are due to gluten in your diet. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is worth investigating whether gluten is behind them.

    DISCOVER IF YOU ARE SENSITIVE TO GLUTEN

    If you are trying to work out if gluten is your enemy it is really important to do things systematically. Write down every symptom that you experience. Don’t dismiss any because you make assumptions about them, such as the aches and pains you have are because you sit too much. Include everything and don’t try to explain them away.

    Then go onto a gluten free diet for a couple of months. This can be harder than it seems because it doesn’t simply mean eating gluten free bread. Gluten is found hidden in many foods and it could well be worth consulting a Natural Medicine practitioner who has experience with food sensitivities to guide and support you through the process.

    After you have been off gluten for a couple of months check out how many of the symptoms on your list you still experience. If a number of them have improved, it would be worth sticking to the GF diet for a longer time. You may find that only a few have gone but if they are symptoms that cause you significant hardship or annoyance it better to stay gluten free.

    If you are sensitive to gluten, it is likely that after you have been gluten free for a while you will once more experience the symptoms you had before going gluten free if you eat foods with gluten again.

    GLUTEN GRAINS

     

    Wheat is only one of the grains containing gluten. Others are barley, rye, spelt, kamut (Khorasan), oats and triticale. Other grains including buckwheat, millet, amaranth, rice, and quinoa are gluten free, and you can use them freely.

    If you decide that you can’t possibly go gluten free then it’s quite likely you are gluten intolerant. The foods that we are addicted to are usually ones that we have a problem with, as a chemical reaction occurs in our brain when we eat them causing us to crave them even more.

    Do you suspect you may be gluten sensitive?

     

    Disclaimer.

    All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

    Source articles:

    http://www.worldhealth.net/news/gluten_allergy_now_four_times_more_commo

    http://www.naturalnews.com/038170_gluten_sensitivity_symptoms_intolerance.html

    http://www.bmj.com/content/345/bmj.e7982

    http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/07/23/why-is-wheat-gluten-disorder-on-the-rise.aspx

     

    Holistic Health, Sleep, Uncategorized

    Sure-fire Strategies to Beat After-lunch ‘Sleepies’

    3 Comments

    Are you someone who finds that come mid-afternoon it is all you can do to keep your eyes open? You are certainly not alone as millions of others share your dilemma. But before you reach for that can of energy drink or cup of coffee to help you see out the day, consider a more natural alternative. It is possible to keep energy levels relatively stable throughout the day, so you don’t end up simply staring off into space after lunch. Here are some ways to help you avoid that energy crash in the first place – there’s sure to be one that works for you!

    Why You Crash Mid-Afternoon

    There are a number of reasons why you might be experiencing the afternoon slump just as there are a number of techniques you can do to snap yourself out of it when your eyelids start to drop. But if you want a significant change in energy fluctuations you need to make permanent changes to whatever is acting as a trigger for your energy lows.

    There are many ailments that can cause you to feel tired after lunch, such as allergies, insulin resistance, celiac disease or low blood sugar. But your tiredness may be due to something as simple as eating a big lunch. Digestion requires quite a lot of energy and as your stomach loads up with food extra blood rushes into your intestines from all over your body to help with the extra work. This leaves the rest of your body, including your brain somewhat deprived, with the result that you start to feel exhausted. Eat a big breakfast and opt for a smaller, light lunch.

    Better Lunch Choices

    There are many lunch choices that can lie behind afternoon ‘sleepies’. Meat is one of the hardest foods to digest so avoiding meat at lunch may be a wise choice to fight off fatigue. It takes two hours to digest meat compared with only thirty minutes to digest fruit. Eating a meatless lunch will place a lot less stress on your digestive system and keep blood flowing to the brain and lungs.

    Don’t forget to chew your lunch really well as saliva is loaded with enzymes that start off the digestion process. The more the saliva has broken down by the food when it reaches your stomach, the easier it will for your body to continue the process through the gut and the less likely it will be for you to feel tired.

    Gluten Intolerance

    An intolerance to gluten, the protein found in some grains, can cause after-lunch fatigue in anyone suffering from coeliac disease if they’ve eaten foods containing gluten at lunch. But many people have a gluten intolerance without actually having coeliac disease. They also benefit from removing gluten from their diet. Have this checked out if you suspect gluten intolerance is behind your tiredness.

    Hypoglyceamia

    Another reason for many people experiencing low energy level between one and four hours after eating is hypoglyceamia. Eating a lunch high in refined carbohydrates causes the blood sugars to rise rapidly, or spike. This is followed a few hours later with a crash in blood sugars that results in fatigue, often with dizziness or shakiness. The onset will often be faster if you exercise as well. A lunch of vegetables and protein is a much better choice than refined carbohydrates. Low GI food alternatives you could look at include most fruits and vegetables, lentils, beans, hummus, quinoa, nuts and seeds. You can find a list of the GI Index rating of lots of foods here

    Insulin resistance

    Another sugar related cause of fatigue after eating may be insulin resistance. When excess sugar or carbohydrates are eaten the body produces more insulin, but over time your cells start to resist the insulin which leads to all sorts of health conditions, including fatigue.

    Caffeine

    One cause of afternoon tiredness that is often overlooked is caffeine. Drinking two or three cups of coffee in the morning may get you going but you pay for it later. As well as the short-lived burst of energy that caffeine provides to you, it also contributes to dehydration, a leading cause of fatigue. Think of coffee as ‘credit-card’ food (eat now, pay later)

    Studies show that a single cup of coffee is sufficient to keep long-haul truck drivers more alert so replace that second coffee with a large glass of water. And more importantly, don’t use caffeine as an afternoon pick-up. If you find you absolutely must have some caffeine drink green tea instead. As well as the mild dose of caffeine it contains you will receive all the other health benefits green tea offers. Tulsi tea is another excellent afternoon energizer especially if adrenal fatigue is playing a part.

    Don’t forget that caffeine is like any drug and your body will develop a caffeine tolerance, so that where you only needed one cup originally after time you might find you need six or even ten to get the energy burst you need.

    Posture

    Most people working in an office sit hunched over their computer for most of the day. As fatigue hits in the afternoon, they tend to slump down over their desk even further. Sitting up straight with shoulders back, eyes forward and lower back arched slightly, and taking good deep breaths right down into the bottom of the lungs can re-energise you very quickly. Stand up and add a few stretches for even more benefit.

    Electro Magnetic Fields

    Being surrounded by EMF’s (often called electromagnetic radiation) can cause fatigue and these are always high around any electric equipment. EMFs are especially high around wireless devices such as computers, wireless phones, printers, laptops, mobile phones, baby monitors, internet connections etc. So getting away from your desk or taking steps to reduce the effects will help keep you more alert.

    Body Clock

    If you’re living somewhere the sun sets during the afternoon in winter, afternoon fatigue may also be due to your own body clock. As the day starts to get dark about mid-afternoon your body temperature drops and the hormone melatonin, which makes you feel sleepy, is released. Circadian rhythms contribute to how alert you feel so open the curtains to let in the sunlight or else simply turn on more lights if it is dark outside.

    Watch your sleep routine. Sleep recharges your body physically and mentally. Get into a regular routine of going to bed and waking up at the same time and stick to it. You need seven to eight hours sleep a night. Studies have shown that ‘Binge Sleeping’ on the weekend does not counteract the sleep debt from the other nights of the week. If you don’t get enough sleep, fatigue is likely to be the result. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends, for more energy.

    Breathe

    Studies have shown that deep breathing can relieve general fatigue. Discover how to correctly deep breathe.

    Natural Strategies to Fight Fatigue

    If, in spite of taking measures to address the cause of your tiredness, you still find yourself falling asleep in the after-lunch meeting, these strategies may help in the moment:

    Peppermint

    Research shows that the aroma of peppermint is a natural remedy for boosting memory, focus and concentration. It is just as effective whether it is fresh leaves, essential oil or brewed tea. Enjoy a cup of peppermint tea, spray a mist of a few drops of peppermint essential oil in a cup of water about your workspace, or even place a few drops of the oil on a handkerchief to sniff. Or keep a pot of mint nearby and crush a couple of leaves during the afternoon

    Cinnamon

    If your tiredness is related to blood sugar imbalance chewing a cinnamon stick might help as it has been shown to have a significant influence on regulating blood sugars

    Power Nap

    If you are able to get away briefly a quick power nap in your car could be just enough to revive you

    Music

    Listening to music has been shown to raise endorphin levels which makes you feel happier. Play your favourite music or sing out loud to get you motivated again.

    Water

    Dehydration causes fatigue so drink some water, or even eat some foods with a high water content like lettuce or watermelon, and combine it with a walk to the water cooler to get away from your desk.

    Protein

    Protein from nuts or yoghurt makes a good snack when you start to slump in the afternoon

    Exercise

    Get up and run up the stairs or around the block if you can. It starts the blood pumping and gives the brain a boost.

    Meditate

    Meditate – yes seriously, just a five minute meditation at your desk is enough to clear out your head and revive, refresh and recharge you.

    Warmth

    Just as animals hibernate when the weather turns cold, getting too cold can make you feel sleepy too, so throw on a jumper or turn up the heating to wake yourself up (this is usually a big help for me!)

    WFH

    And if you are lucky enough to work from home or your workplace is a little more free you could do some exercises or hit the gym, turn the music up really loud, take a short cold shower or do some yoga

    What are some of the ways that you manage the mid-afternoon ‘sleepies’?

     

    Disclaimer.

    All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

    © Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health, 2012. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

    Source articles:

    http://www.naturalnews.com/034368_aromatherapy_peppermint_memory.html#ixzz2NJuFpNiJ

    http://greatist.com/happiness/28-scientifically-proven-ways-boost-energy-instantly

    Holistic Health, Uncategorized

    Crazy In The Coconut? Coconut Oil To The Rescue

    5 Comments

    While I was out driving yesterday, I wished I had some coconut oil as my bare shoulder got sunburnt through the car window. A layer of coconut oil, which has an SPF of 4 would have probably been just enough to stop the burn.

    The biggest buzz word in natural health right now is coconut and the amazing therapeutic benefits of this humble food, particularly the oil, are being loudly touted.

    The smell of coconut oil always brings back the memory of childhood beach holidays for me, and it was used in the past. But it’s use went out of favour when the ‘slip, slop, slap’ campaign began and it’s only recently come back into favour.

    Health Benefits of Coconut

    In fact, coconuts are not nuts at all, and unlike nuts they are a relatively low-allergenic food. In spite of this however, some people may have an allergy to coconut. The flesh and milk of the fruit are nutrient rich, particularly in potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc so it’s no surprise that coconuts were traditionally considered a great tonic food.

    In addition to the minerals extra-virgin coconut oil also has high levels of antioxidants, which help to mop up free radicals in the body and slow down the aging process.

    It is the coconut oil that makes this fruit such a treasure. For years coconuts sat at the top of the ‘bad fats’ list and were shunned because their oil is a saturated fat. But recently it was recognised that unlike the long-chain saturated fats of animal origin, coconut oil works very differently in the body and is highly beneficial.

    Coconut oil is one of the very few dietary sources of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) which are absorbed, transported and metabolised in your body very differently to other fats.

    It is a rich source of lauric acid which stimulates metabolism, helps with energy production and speeds up the rate that your body burns fat. If you are trying to lose a few kilos then make coconut oil your friend. Even though you usually gain weight when you consume animal fats and some vegetable fats, it is actually possible to lose weight when you eat coconut oil. Importantly, unlike saturated animal fats it does not have a negative effect on cholesterol and actually protects heart function and cardiac tissue, reducing the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.

    Studies have shown that coconut is useful to the body in many ways. It can help balance blood sugar levels in diabetics and reduce sugar cravings; improve thyroid function: improve digestive function by reducing or relieving the symptoms of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, Chrohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis, malabsorption syndrome and stomach ulcers; reduce or relieve epileptic seizures: reduce prostate enlargement; relieve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. It is also thought to strengthen the immune system and stop the spread of cancer cells, especially breast and colon.

    It has also long been recognised that coconut oil will kill the bacteria that cause throat infections, gum diseases as well as other bacterial infections, and coconut oil pulling can reduce tooth decay and improve oral health. More recently coconut has also been found to be antifungal and can be helpful treating candida and athletes foot.

    Cold-pressed extra-virgin coconut oil has the most therapeutic value and is the one to use.

    coconut oil Phu Thinh Co

    Cooking With Coconut

    There has always been problems with many of the oils used for cooking as many oils, including olive oil, are damaged when they are heated. Even at relatively low temperatures they turn rancid and oxidise, resulting in higher levels of free radicals being produced in your body. Coconut oil has stepped in to fill the much-needed role of an oil for cooking at high temperatures. It can be heated to 120ْ C before it is damaged so is perfect for frying and baking and in addition it does not turn rancid and oxidise when heated.

    Try out these great ways to cook with coconut oil for yourself.

    • Roll vegetables in a mix of liquefied coconut oil and cumin in equal quantities before baking them for a yummy healthy treat.
    • Roll cut potatoes (organic) in straight coconut oil and bake for delicious crunchy home-made wedges.
    • Coconut oil can be used in place of butter in recipes and mixes beautifully with raw cacao.

    SKIN CARE

    Coconut oil has long been revered throughout Asia and the island nations for its wonderful moisturising effects on the skin. When coconut oil is consumed it benefits the skin as well as when it is applied externally directly on the skin.

    Coconut oil is a quality fat and when used on the skin it plumps up the cells and keeps them hydrated. It provides a healthy beneficial replacement for vegetable oils when we cut back on fat in our diet. When we remove fat, especially saturated fat from our diet our skin starts to shrivel up. Consuming vegetable oils ages your skin faster than consuming saturated fats like coconut oil. In recent years the trend has been to eat more vegetable oils and fewer saturated fats, so our skin is suffering as a result.

    During a recent massage the practitioner told me she was trialing coconut oil as her massage oil base and finding it fantastic to work with. It certainly glided on and my skin felt amazing afterwards. It would make a great whole-body moisturiser or add some to your bath for lovely all-over soft skin.

    Recently I tried coconut oil on my hair to tame the ‘natural dry frizz’ and the result was great. I left it on my hair for an hour before washing it and the oil left it silky smooth. You could also rub some between your palms and then just work it through your hair.

    Massaging coconut oil into your scalp is good for dandruff, although luckily I don’t suffer from that.

    Buying and Storing Coconut Oil

    Look for organic, unrefined, cold pressed coconut oil. Coconut oil needs to be stored in a glass jar, preferably a dark one, to prevent spoiling. At room temperature it is solid, but over 24ْ C it will liquefy.

    Coconut oil is generally regarded as having no known side effects other than if you are used to a low-fat diet it may cause diarrhoea. When you change from using other oils start slowly with a small amount.

    Although in countries where coconuts are widely grown, they are considered beneficial to pregnant and lactating women, in the West, where low-fat diets rule, it is recommended not to introduce coconut oil into your diet at this time unless you have been consuming coconut regularly with no adverse effects.

    Although many nutritionists and other health professionals recommend including coconut oil in your diet, it is worth noting that the Heart foundation does not support eating it because it is a saturated fat, in spite of the fact that the fats are of the healthy MCFA type. It seems that the conservative response to the growing popularity has been to either advise not to eat it or else to use it in moderation. But up against this is the positive experience of many coconut oil devotees as well as the positive findings of the many studies that have been conducted.

    Have you got any ways that you love using coconut oil? Share them in the comments below.

    Disclaimer.

    All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

     

    Source articles:

    http://www.naturalnews.com/036156_Coconut_oil_superfood_healing.html

    http://www.thewellnesswarrior.com.au/2012/06/why-coconut-oil-is-amazing/

    http://www.lovingearth.net/products/37/raw-organic-coconut-butter-oil

    Holistic Health, Uncategorized

    Chocolate, The Superfood Vegetable

    13 Comments

    Have you thought that your favourite vegetable might actually be chocolate? I have to confess it rates high on my list. Chocolate has been appreciated for its health benefits for quite a while due to the wonderful antioxidants it contains, in fact more than any other fruit or vegetable. Raw cacao is an excellent source of antioxidants and has an extremely high ORAC score as one of the top antioxidant foods.

    With Easter just around the corner I thought I would bring you a bit if happy news this week…Chocolate can be good for you! But only if it’s the right kind.

    Antioxidants In Chocolate

    I’m sure you’ve heard about how chocolate is a good source of flavonoids which have antioxidant activity, which is absolutely true, in particular epicatechin and resveratrol. But there’s quite a lot of confusion about just what makes good and bad chocolate so here are a few guidelines to help you make your Easter chocolate choices.

    Chocolate comes from Theobroma Cacao beans which in their pure form are really healthy. The name actually means “food of the Gods” and cacao is loaded with wonderful compounds, including magnesium which is a muscle relaxant that helps you feel calmer, and sulphur which helps build strong hair and nails.

    Cocoa is made by grinding the cacao beans to a powder from which most of the fat is removed. Cocoa butter is the fat component of the seed, and chocolate is the sweet that is made from the roasted seeds. If the sweet is made from seeds that are not roasted then it is ‘raw chocolate’ and like most other vegetables, ‘raw’ chocolate is much healthier than the version made from roasted beans.

    Raw chocolate is much healthier than chocolate made from roasted beans.

    Traditional Use of Cacao

    Chocolate has a long therapeutic history. Originating in South and Central America it was originally drunk as a bitter drink to bring energy and vitality and bore little resemblance to the sweet, sticky versions that we love today.

    Chocolate consumed in a way that is closer to the traditional ways still provides wonderful benefits.

    The Kuna people of Panama, for example, consume up to 40 cups of cocoa a week and have less than a ten percent risk of stroke, heart failure, cancer and diabetes. Compare this to the risk of developing these diseases here in Australia and other parts of the Western world where they are the most prevalent of diseases.

    There are a number of studies that have shown that eating chocolate can decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke significantly, as well as lowering insulin resistance, reducing blood pressure and LDL’s. However, this benefit only occurs if you eat the right type and the right amount. Too little or too much chocolate leads to no benefit or even to problems.

    It seems that eating small amounts of chocolate at frequent intervals gives the best result.

    Benefits Of Chocolate

    Chocolate offers many health benefits. Here are some of them.

    • Anti-inflammatory action
    • Free radical protection
    • Decreases stress hormones
    • Improves the mood
    • Reduces cortisol levels
    • Heart health
    • Lowers blood pressure
    • Help reduce blood clot formation
    • Liver protection
    • Eases PMS
    • May help control appetite & stop cravings
    • Improves insulin resistance
    • Improve gastrointestinal flora
    • Contribute to chelation
    • Reduces the risk of colon cancer
    • Neuroprotective
    • Boost memory and cognitive function & lower Alzheimers rise

    What Makes a Good Chocolate?

    Most commercial chocolates are highly processed, combining roasted cacao beans with various amounts of sugar, milk, fat and other ingredients. In many processed chocolates the flavonoids are removed because they taste bitter. However, the flavonoids are where the health benefits originate so removing them also drastically reduces the health benefits.

    Basically, the higher the percentage of cacao in the chocolate, the more bitter the flavor and the darker the color. A dark chocolate with at least 75% cacao is likely to offer most health benefits as the concentration of antioxidants will not be overwhelmed by the sweeteners and fats. Those Bittersweet chocolates are the way to go.

    The sweeter the chocolate the less the health benefit….  

    The sweeter the chocolate the lower the health benefit.

    Organic raw cacao is the best way to eat your chocolate if you want all the antioxidants. Search out chocolate products that are made from organic raw cacao and also not heavily sweetened.

    Unhealthy Chocolate

    Some ingredients quickly wipe out all the benefit the cacao provides. When you select your chocolate choose ones that avoid these following ingredients.

    Cane sugar, fructose, HFCS

    Chocolates sweetened with cane sugar, fructose or high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and especially artificial sweeteners. Instead look for chocolate sweetened with honey or stevia which are much better choices. Coconut sugar is a low GI option if you do not have any problem with fructose.

    GMO cocoa beans

    Genetically engineered cocoa beans (GMO). If the chocolate is certified organic it won’t contain GMO ingredients, but most other chocolate does.

    Soy oil, vegetable oils, trans fats

    The right type of fat in chocolate is OK because it slows down sugar absorption. The best is cocoa butter, which is what occurs in the cacao plant. Coconut oil would be the next best fat. Make sure to avoid soy oil, vegetable oils and trans fats.

      And by the way, WHITE chocolate is heavily sweetened and has NONE of the phytonutrients.

      Why We Love Chocolate

      Have you wondered why eating some sorts of chocolate can make you feel so good? Cacao also contains the ‘bliss’ chemical anandamide which leads to feelings of excitement and alertness in our body and improves your mood and reduces depression. Unlike caffeine, Anandamide is not addictive and does not have the side-effects of many drugs.

      One compound in chocolate that can be a problem is theobromine which stimulates the central nervous system and dilates blood vessels. It has about 25% of the stimulating power of caffeine, and like caffeine it is a mild diuretic. But in some people theobromine can cause them to feel hyped-up which is then followed by lethargy. In others it causes headaches.

      3 Chocolate Treats

      Enjoy these yum chocolate treats with no guilt knowing they’re healthy and good for you.

      Hot Chocolate

      An average cup of coffee contains up to 175milligrams of caffeine which is about what there is in a 50gram piece of dark chocolate. In comparison a cup of hot chocolate has only about 4-5 milligrams of caffeine, substantially lower than coffee. But some scientists believe that chocolate does not actually contain caffeine and that it is the theobromine that causes the caffeine-like responses. Theobromine is also the component that makes chocolate so dangerous for dogs, because they lack the enzymes needed to metabolize it.

      Superfood Smoothie

      How about a healthy chocolate smoothie for breakfast?

      • Fill your blender with water, coconut water, orange juice or tea (or a mix).
      • Blend in some spirulina powder and gogi berries.
      • If you live anywhere in the world other than Australia or New Zealand add some hemp seed protein powder (incredibly it is still illegal in both those countries) If you live in Australia or NZ you could add some ground flax, chia or pumpkin seeds instead.
      • Add some chocolate (raw cacao powder would be perfect) and some cacao nibs for extra yum.

      And there you have it….A SUPERFOOD SMOOTHIE for chocoholics

      Avocado Chocolate Mousse

      One thing I used to love before I went Dairy-Free was Chocolate Mousse, so I was delighted when I found this easy vegan recipe that combines a few superfoods on the Australian Permaculture website.

      • Scoop the flesh from 2-3 avocados into the blender
      • Add 1 heaped tablespoon of raw cacao, a small handful of cacao nibs (optional) and around ½ cup of coconut palm sugar (or substitute another sweetening agent of your liking.)
      • Add a splash of vanilla essence and pour in enough water to cover the ingredients
      • Blend in short bursts. Extra water may need to be added to ensure the mousse draws down and is properly blended.
      • Pour into a bowl or jug depending on the thickness of the mousse, if it is thicker a bowl is better, and serve

      Fair Trade Chocolate

      If you’ve ever wondered why you should only buy Fair Trade Chocolate take a look at this. The chocolate industry is notorious for still engaging in child labour and slavery. Fair Trade chocolate isn’t perfect, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.

      So go ahead and indulge your love of Fair-Trade chocolate, in small amounts. Choose a dark organic variety, preferably with no added sugar. Look for Raw Cacao in the ingredient list, and avoid all the sweet, milky varieties as they are not healthy at all!

      What do you think, will you be adding this superfood to your eating plan?

      Disclaimer.

      All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

      Source articles:

      http://www.naturalnews.com/022610_cacao_chocolate_raw.html

      http://www.chocolate.org/health/chocprescribe.html

      http://www.livestrong.com/dark-chocolate-health-benefits/

      http://www.facts-about-chocolate.com/where-does-chocolate-come-from/

      Holistic Health, Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Uncategorized

      Bigger From Dawn To Dusk: Natural Remedies For Bloating

      4 Comments

      Does this sound familiar? You wake in the morning feeling great with a nice flat belly, but by the evening your gut is swollen and aching, or at the very least uncomfortable and tight? Is bloating a problem for you? It is for many people. Chances are if you answered ‘yes’ then you’re probably a woman, with about one in three women experiencing abdominal bloating. But,while bloating is more common for women it’s also a problem for many men. For some unlucky people, bloating is a constant and serious problem. However, there are many natural remedies for bloating.

      By the evening your gut is swollen and aching
      By the evening your gut is swollen and aching

       

      CAUSES OF BLOATING

      There are many causes of bloating. Sometimes it’s simply the result of overeating. But if it happens regularly it could be due to any of the following:

      • Food allergies
      • Food intolerance
      • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
      • Constipation
      • Gas-producing foods
      • Swallowing air (aerophagia)
      • Intestinal parasites
      • Menstruation, period pain, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
      • Diverticulosis, Splenic-Flexure Syndrome, partial bowel obstruction
      • Visceral fat

      After eating or drinking gases are produced in the colon. Normally they move through the gut where they’re mostly absorbed or they’re passed out of the body. But if the gas gets trapped along the way then discomfort and distension occurs. Sometimes bloating can be so severe that it makes you suddenly look pregnant.

       

      STRESS AND BLOATING

      A big problem and sometimes the cause of bloating is STRESS. When you’re stressed your gut doesn’t work properly. When your body goes into ‘fight or flight mode’ the digestive system closes down. If you’re living with ongoing stress your body stays in a prolonged state of ‘high alert’, as do all the digestive repercussions.

      If you can’t remove the stress from your life then you need to introduce practices to break the stressful state apart. These practices could include yoga, meditation, walking the labyrinth, deep breathing, tai chi, exercise, relaxing music, walking. In fact whatever it is that relaxes and calms you will create the result you want.

      Importantly you need to make the commitment to continue the activity on a regular basis.

       

      HORMONES AND BLOATING

      Bloating can be the result of gynaecological problems and often related to the hormonal cycle. Together with constipation it’s often worse right before periods when hormonal activity is high. HRT can also contribute to bloating in older women.

      Isolating the offending cause of bloating can become further complicated when something as seemingly innocuous as calcium supplements may cause bloating in some people. The range of causes can be diverse and a complicated mix from a number of different sources.

       

      FOODS AND BLOATING

      Foods often cause bloating, with food intolerance probably being the biggest cause. Food intolerance is often very difficult to identify, especially if there;s more than one single food involved. Symptoms don’t always show up immediately after eating the food and may take days to become evident.

      Problem Foods For Bloating

      Problem foods often come from these groups:

      • Vegetables – Onions and garlic, and brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale)
      • Dairy foods – milk, cheese, ice-cream, and foods containing milk solids
      • Grains – wheat, corn (including popcorn)
      • Fruits – such as apples, peaches and pears
      • Sweets – hard candy, chewing gum
      • Highly spiced foods
      • Alcohol
      • Carbonated drinks and champagne

      Processed foods are high in bloating-promoting ingredients and can lead to bloating. Fructose, one such ingredient, is often added to processed foods.

      Fructose intolerance is a problem affecting more and more people. The FODMAP diet can really help those with fructose intolerance. However it needs to be done under the supervision of a practitioner as it varies a little from one individual to another and can be very complicated to put together.

      Salt can be a problem, particularly in highly processed foods as it can cause or worsen bloating and water retention. It’s far better to avoid processed foods and to use other seasonings in your cooking.

       

      It looks tasty but broccoli, milk and wheat could all be causing your blaoting
      It looks tasty but broccoli, milk and wheat could all be causing your blaoting

       

      PROBLEM FOODS FOR BLOATING

      Gluten, lactose and fructose intolerance are the three most common  causes of bloating in my clients. If you believe one of these is behind your problem eliminate it completely for a week and watch the effect. But these ingredients are often hidden, for instance gluten is present in many medications.

      Lactose, sorbitol and wheat as well as vegetables like cabbage, broccoli and onions can cause increased gas production. But the underlying problem is usually that your digestive tract isn’t contracting properly. When this occurs gas gets trapped in the digestive tract and leads to gurgling and bloating.

      Avoiding problem foods helps lessen symptoms. But in the long term it’s better to fix the problem at a deeper level and that’s where natural remedies for bloating can help.

       

      NATURAL REMEDIES FOR BLOATING

      Homeopathy

      There are a number of Homeopathic remedies that stimulate the gut so it starts contracting properly and then keeps on working efficiently. Using homeopathy for bloating is a bit like a ‘re-training’ for the gastrointestinal tract.

      There are pre-mixed homeopathic remedies for general gut issues. However you’ll get best results under the care of a fully trained  Homeopath who’ll select a remedy to match your specific symptoms. Homeopathic remedies should be selected and taken according to homeopathic prescribing guidelines.

      Herbs

      Herbs are another natural option that can help bloating. Peppermint is well-known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. However it’s not great for everybody. While it works like a treat for many people about 40% actually experience a worsening of their symptoms and so are better avoiding peppermint altogether. Other mints are also helpful.

      Ginger is another good digestive herb that might help you.

      Fennel Seeds
      Fennel Seeds

      Fennel is probably the most effective herbal digestive aid and relieves gas magnificently as well as reducing bloating and cramps. Either chew fennel seeds or drink fennel tea.

      Teas are one of the easiest and best ways to take herbs at home. You can make your own herbal teas or buy one ready blended containing fennel. Select a brand that specialises in therapeutic herbal teas.

      It is easy to make your own Fennel Tea, simply crush one teaspoon of fennel seeds and add to a cup of water. Bring to the boil, cover and steep for ten to fifteen minutes. Cool and strain. Drink two to three cups each day.

      Try the herbal tea out and if you don’t get a positive response try a different herb instead. My favourite digestive tea contains cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, clove, peppercorn and spearmint amongst other ingredients, which are all digestive aids.

      Supplements

      Taking probiotics, bifidus and acidopholus, can be helpful. They repopulate your gut with ‘good bacteria’. They help redress the imbalance between ‘good’ and ‘bad bacteria’ that often accompanies bloating. Look for a reputable brand from your health food shop, one that is for ‘practitioner dispensing only’ is the better choice.

      There can be insufficient enzymes in the small intestine. In this case Digestive Enzymes can be a great help in breaking down the gas-forming foods. They are available over the counter.

      Activated charcoal can help to relieve gas and bloating. Take it before and after meals. But don’t use it if you’re taking the contraceptive pill or other medications and don’t use it long term.

      Essential Oils

      Essential Oils are great for symptoms due to stress. Choose from peppermint, orange, rose, cinnamon and basil oils.  Alternatively buy a stress-relieving or balancing blend from your health food shop.

       

      EXERCISE FOR BLOATING

      Certain exercises can help when the pain of bloating is really bad.

      • Rolling a soft ball over your abdomen can help move the gas along the digestive tract.
      • Lie on your back and hug one leg to your chest while keeping the other flat on the floor. Hold for the count of 20. Then repeat with the other leg. Doing this at least five times may alleviate symptoms.
      • Five minutes of deep abdominal breathing is one of the best ways to get some relief.  This is a good practice to adopt every day whether you’re bloated or not.

       

      YOUR HAPPY GUT CHECK LIST

      1. Maintain a healthy diet, keep regular eating patterns and don’t skip meals. Eat slowly and chew everything well.
      2. Avoid problematic foods from the list above.
      3. Increase your water intake and cut back alcohol which irritates the gut
      4. Replace white wheat bread with different grains such as rye or spelt, or even gluten-free. Broaden the range of grains you consume
      5. Avoid dairy products as many people are actually lactose intolerant
      6. Combat your symptoms with natural remedies
      7. Reduce your stress
      8. Limit sugar intake especially fructose found in fruits and juices

       

       

      BLOATING WARNINGS

      Persistent chronic bloating can be a symptom of intestinal blockage or more sinister diseases such as ovarian cancer or uterine fibroids. Get checked out by your doctor particularly if you also have unexplained weight loss or gain.

      It’s becoming more widely recognised that many serious health problems stem from problems with the gut not functioning well. Keeping your digestive system working happily really is fundamental to maintaining good health.

      Natural remedies for bloating are a simple and effective way to get relief

       

      Would you love to stay vibrant & healthy beyond your 50’s? Join us to redesign your life and create your personal Wellness Blueprint with the tools you need to upscale your health & wellness in the long term at the Live Life: Love Life: Long Life Wellness Retreat

      Bloated green man

      Disclaimer.

      All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site.