HAY FEVER, ALLERGIES, SINUSITIS

Article by herbalist Dave Hawkins, MH, CNC

With the onset of spring many of you have been experiencing the negative effects of hay fever, allergies and sinusitis. I wanted to address this uncomfortable condition and give a deeper understanding of what is going on in your body and give some recommendations for treatment.

The numerous symptoms of allergies include headaches, fatigue, sneezing, watery eyes, and stuffy sinuses. These symptoms are all caused by an adverse immune response to dust, pollens, mites, animal dander, smoke chemicals and food. It is estimated that over 35 million Americans suffer from allergies.

Let's look at the different types of allergies.

Allergies fall into two types, those caused by environmental factors and those caused by food. Either type can contribute to asthma, bronchitis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, eczema, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, kidney problems, weight gain, heart palpitations and depression.

There are four types of allergies; type one causes an immediate reaction usually within 15 to 30 minutes and types two through four are characterized by delayed reactions. These delayed reactions are often overlooked but are very common.

Environmental allergies are caused mostly by pollens of trees, weeds, grasses, dust, molds and smoke according to Dr. Wilkinson, who practices environmental medicine in Yakima, Washington. He also states "cosmetics, perfumes, household cleaners, and certain fabrics can trigger an allergy response."

The foods most commonly found to cause allergies are wheat, corn, dairy, egg whites, tomatoes, soy, peanuts, chocolate, as well as food dyes and additives.

The biggest question I get is what causes allergies?

Let's look a bit closer and see what is going on in the body. An allergic reaction is simply the body's way of protecting itself. In an allergic reaction, the immune system overreacts to a foreign substance that the body feels is harmful. In response, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals into the blood in an effort to destroy the substance that has entered the body.

One of the primary causes of allergy response is an impaired immune system.

Dr. Leon Chaitow has found that a number of factors negatively impact the immune system. These include increased toxic burden due to pollution in all forms, disturbance of infant immune systems through repeated immunizations and vaccinations, and damage to healthy intestinal flora due to over use of antibiotics and steroids.

Another doctor, John Mansfield, an allergy specialist states; other causes of food allergies include nutritional deficiencies, a repetitive diet, chemicals in the food chain due to pesticides and preservatives and chronic intestinal yeast (candida) overgrowth.

"Leaky gut syndrome" or excessive permeability in the digestive tract is another major cause of allergies. The immune system reacts to particles of undigested or partiallydigested matter that leaks into the bloodstream from the intestines.

Many different types of medications that have many drawbacks treat the symptoms of allergies. Mostly they suppress the symptoms and inhibit the normal body responses that are trying to restore balance and health. Let's look at some of these allergy products:

• Antihistamines- are often used to dry up a runny nose. They have numerous side effects, such as, drowsiness, blurred vision, loss of appetite, nausea, and excessive dryness of the nasal and throat passages.

• Steroidal nasal sprays- will reduce swollen nasal tissue but tend to have what is called a rebound effect causing an even more congested scenario.

• Cough suppressants- inhibit the bodies ability to expel mucous and phlegm. They have been linked to addiction and constipation.

• Allergy shots- will work but dosage is sometimes hard to determine.

In order for healing of allergies to occur it is necessary to address their cause rather than just treat a symptom. There are many natural therapies that have been proven to be effective in treating allergies including diet, herbal, nutritional, acupuncture and homeopathy.

Let's look at diet and some of the herbals that brings about this balance.

Dr. Braly suggests that a four-day rotation diet is one of the simplest and most effective measures anyone can take to both prevent and deal with allergies.

This means that you are not eating any one food more often than every four days. He also suggests a diet including a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, seed and nuts, low fat non-dairy animal protein, the use of whole grains but restricting wheat, corn and white rice and other foods with a high gluten content.

Nutrient deficiencies are another problem when it comes to allergies. Dr. Michael Murray N.D., a naturopath, recommends the following list:

• Vitamin C- one gram four times a day.

• Selenium- 100 mcg a day

• Bromelain enzyme- 125 mg 20 minutes before meals.

• Pancreatin (8x)- one or two with meals.

• Zinc- 15 mg a day

• Vitamin A- 15,000 iu two times a day.

• Flax seed oil- 1 tlbsp two times a day.

• B-complex- 50 mg per day.

• Quercetin- 250 mg 20 minutes before meals. This has been shown to block the formation of histamines before they are release from the mast cells.

• Glutamine- 500 mg two times per day.

In many instances I will recommend the inclusion of probiotic bacteria in the form of fermented foods and live bacteria yogurt or taking an enteric-coated acidophilus supplement. Also the use of digestive enzymes can aid in the digestion of food and thus reduce the amount of potential allergens.

There are many herbal remedies that have been used to aid the symptoms of allergies. These are found in many forms. Homeopathic remedies are taken in pellets or liquids and produce no negative side effects. Herbal teas and capsules are also available. Be cautious of ephedra containing products if you have high blood pressure or heart conditions.

Some specific herbs that work are goldenseal root, it works by shrinking swollen nasal passages and is anti bacterial, (not to be used long term at high doses), red sage and goldenrod help eliminate mucous. Yarrow, myrrh, and thyme are astringent and help contract inflamed tissues and reduces secretions and discharges. Echinacea, astragalus, and suma work to boost the immune system. Ginger root and cayenne pepper have anti-inflammatory properties. Be sure to check an authoritative source before beginning these therapies.

Try to follow these five steps for a successful treatment plan:

• Proper diagnosis is possibly the most difficult step but most important.

• Eliminate the offending substances and make lifestyle changes.

• Support the immune system.

• Take care of nutrient deficiencies by supplementing the diet.

• Try natural substance that will help block histamine formation and help control negative symptoms.

HOW YOU CAN GET TO SLEEP NATURALLY

Article by herbalist Dave Hawkins, MH, CNC

The numbers are staggering when it comes to how many people have trouble sleeping at night. It is estimated that over 50 million Americans suffer from some type of sleep disorder.  These disorders range from insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. Every year approximately 4 to 6 million Americans take a prescription medication to help them sleep.  Over the years there has been much research done to understand why people don't sleep, and I will cover some of that research in this article.

Let's look at the mechanisms of sleep and understand why our lifestyles affect this very important function of life itself.  Sleep is a restorative process that replenishes nerve energy that is needed for many body processes, a time for renewal and repair. It is an essential part of daily life and determines our state of health.

The sleep cycle consists of two states, REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and NREM (Non Rapid Eye Movement).  

REM sleep is known as dream sleep.

NREM sleep which consists of four stages. Stage 1 is going from wakefulness to Stage 2 which is light sleep to Stage 3 and 4 which is" delta" or deep sleep.  A period of REM sleep normally follows each period of NREM sleep.  NREM sleep accounts for the major part of sleep.

The neurotransmitter serotonin and norephinephrine are responsible for helping us get to sleep at night.  Serotonin is made for the amino acid tryptophane, an essential amino acid.  It is found in turkey, fish, beans, and milk as well as other plant sources.  Evening primrose seed has more tryptophane than any other plant according to Dr. James Duke.

Unfortunately, tryptophane was taken form the market due to a contaminated batch that passed through customs and the FDA and contributed to the loss of approximately 120 lives.  It was later proven that the tryptophane was not the problem but the contaminant. Tryptophane in its free form is still unavailable over the counter but is still used in infant formulas.  A new form call 5 HTP is available now.

Ironically, the same year that tryptophane was taken off the market, Prozac was introduced which works with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin plays a major role in NREM sleep.  If serotonin is exhausted, the result is insomnia and a reduction in NREM sleep. Norephinephrine is associated with REM sleep, but a reduction has no influence on NREM sleep.  Another neurotransmitter is dopamine which actually helps you go to sleep.

Sleep disorders occur for many reasons: Psychological (anxiety), biochemical (dietary deficiency or drug dependency), medical (sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome) as well as daily living activities, lack of exercise, and environmental factors.

Diet is considered the primary cause of many of these disorders. The over-consumption of caffeine in the form of coffee, tea and cola drinks has been associated with insomnia and restless leg syndrome.  Many OTC cold and cough preparations contain pseudo ephedrine, a stimulant.  Food allergies have also been linked to insomnia. The main two allergens are dairy and wheat, with corn and chocolate next.

Other considerations are drugs and alcohol. Drugs that interfere with sleep are thyroid medications, oral contraceptives, beta blockers and marijuana. Excess alcohol consumption reduces overall sleep and interferes in REM and NREM cycles.

Environmentally, Anthony Scott-Morley, D.S.C.,Ph.D, M.D.,B.A. from England, states "Items that interfere with the body's electromagnetic field and create fields of their own can disrupt sleep. These include electric blankets, heated waterbeds, electric clocks, and 60 cycle frequencies (household electric current) as well as power lines and generators."

The psychological effects of stress, depression, grief, fear, and excitement can all be factors in sleep disturbances and need to be assessed when looking at treatment protocols.

When it comes to treating sleep disorders, there are many approaches that can be taken. One must rule out dietary deficiency and food intolerance first.  The use of nutritional supplements and herbal remedies has shown good result, as well as homeopathics and behavioral treatments. The following are some of the nutritional supplements known to aid sleep:

<Calcium - Helps with nerve conduction, muscle contraction, blood clotting and release of neurotransmitters

< Magnesium - Aids nerve function and relaxes muscles, necessary for calcium transport and utilization.

<B complex vitamins (including biotin, naicin, inositol, B6 and B12) - Help nerve function and aid synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (essential fats).

< Chromium - Helps to regulate blood sugar.  Low blood sugar causes the adrenal glands to secrete adrenaline, a stimulant.

< Phospholipids - Aid in neurotransmitter production and help nerve endings.

< Melatonin - A natural hormone that serves as a precursor to serotonin

< 5 HTP (hydroxyl-tryptophane) - A new form of tryptophane that aids serotonin production in the brain.

Many traditional herbs have also shown benefits when it comes to lack of sleep.  Some of the most popular are:

<Valerian Root - Anti spasmodic, anodyne, carminative, nervine used to relieve stress, muscle spasms, depression, stomach cramps fatigue and nervous conditions. Over 120 chemical components have been identified and has been the subject of over 200 studies for its therapeutic actions.

< Passion Flower - Nervine, sedative, anti-spasmodic, hypotensive.  It has been used for Insomnia, shingles, anxiety, Parkinson's and high blood pressure.

< Kava Kava - An anxiolytic, sedative, muscle relaxant, analgesic, has many methods of action on the nervous system. Non-addictive and non-toxic.

< Scullcap - Sedative, nervine, anti-spasmodic. Aids relaxation, calms, helps in alcohol and drug withdrawal.  A tonic for the nervous system.

< St. John's Wort - Sedative, anti-depressant, nervine, anti-inflammatory. Has been used in Europe for centuries for insomnia, has had numerous studies on its usefulness in depression.

Many years ago when I was having problems sleeping, and I made a formula that consisted of these herbs: Chamomile, spearmint, lemon grass, scullcap, valerian, and hops. You steep this for 15-20 minutes and drink before bed.  It certainly helped me.

Here are a few suggestions that may help you if you are suffering from lack of sleep:

< Establish a regular bedtime and a regular time for waking in the morning

< Don't spend too much time in bed trying to fall asleep

< Spend some time in bright sunlight during morning hours

< Exercise regularly

< Avoid caffeine

< Avoid alcohol at least two hours before bedtime

< Don't eat late at night

< Be active during the day

Some good reading material on this topic is Everybody's Guide To Natural Sleep by Jeremy P. Tarcher and No More Sleepless Nights by Hauri. P., Ph.D.

There are also many natural sleep formulas available from nutritional supplements, herbs, homeopathics; and numerous techniques and programs available to help you if you suffer from sleep disorders. 

I find myself fascinated again by the power of nature. In one of my recent journals an article was written about a substance referred to as HupA (huperzine a) which sparked my interest. I wanted to share this information with you because of the research done with this natural compound and Alzheimer's disease.

It is estimated that over 4.0 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's which, as many of you know, is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain.

Alzheimer symptoms range from vision problems, sensory nerve impairment, lack of muscle coordination, hearing loss, loss of speech, loss of motor coordination and loss of thinking and memory. Huperzine A is not a cure-all but an aid, and we will look into how it works.

HupA is an extract from huperzia serrata, a type of club moss, indigenous to China. It is a member of the Lycopodeum family and is considered one of the most primitive class of plants. This herb has been used in China for thousands of years to treat fever, inflammation and excessive bleeding.

Research into this plant began back in 1980 where the constituent, HupA, was first isolated. In 1991 Dr. Alan Kozikowski, Professor of Chemistry in The Neurological Dept. of Georgetown University began researching HupA and he reported his findings in the Journal of the American Medical Assoc. (JAMA), about its promising treatment for Alzheimer's not to mentions its neuro protective factors in healthy brains.

Research has been done on the isolated compound and the whole herb. There is some controversy as to which is better, but since the whole herb has been used for thousands of years, many researchers use the whole form.

Huperzine a is not being marketed as a treatment for Alzheimer's but more as a neuro protective agent that enhances proper brain functions.  Its action does not work as fast as other brain nutrients, but it does appear to enhance memory and cognition. Some researchers believe that it may act as a preventative in the development of Alzheimer's.

It has been successfully used in China for conditions related to stroke, epilepsy and other brain dysfunctions.

So let's take a look at how HupA works in the body to give the benefits mentioned above. This information gets somewhat technical, but I will try to keep it simple:

Individual nerve cells in the brain are connected over a synapse or small gap. When thought processes travel through the brain, they must cross this synapse. A small electrochemical reaction creates a bridge between the gaps.

The electrochemical reaction is "lubricated" by a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine (ACh). Because the brain knows that it can't have too much ACh hanging around after the gap is bridged, the body produces an enzyme that breaks down ACh very quickly. This enzyme is called AChE (acetylcholinesterase).

It is considered the fastest enzyme ever discovered so far. It works within a fraction of a second to remove any excess ACh. However, in a healthy brain AChE does not destroy all the acetylcholine before it has time to trigger or "turn on" the receptor site at other end of the nerve cell. The ability of this enzyme to enhance the successful crossing of the nerve transmission or to overly impede this transmission are reflected in a healthy or unhealthy brain.

This is where HupA works. It is considered a AChE inhibitor, so it prevents the production of AChE thus allowing more time for ACh to perform its task of sending the nerve signals. It is well known that in Alzheimer's patients the production of ACh (acetylcholine) is radically diminished; the thinking is that if you can prevent the breakdown of ACh by inhibiting the enzymes responsible over time, the ACh will build up and brain functions will improve.

Currently there are two medications prescribed that work similarly as HupA, but they have not been shown to be as effective and they have side effects and liver toxicity.

I need to mention two herbs that have been effective in aiding acetylcholine production and they are fresh rosemary and gota kola.

In a study reported in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Assoc.) regarding the effectiveness of HupA in comparison to the prescription drugs mentioned above, they found the 58-75% of the patients treated with HupA responded with improvement to memory and behavioral functions, and the response was faster than those using only the medications. Other benefits were noted:

·         Improved memory in patients with benign memory disorder (86.7% overall improvement with 50% having significant improvement).

·         Helped decrease neuronal cell death.

·         Has potential for improved learning and information retrieval.

·         Improved short and long-term memory.

·         Improved spatial memory in animals.

·         Improved memory without development of tolerance.

How safe is Huperzine A ?

HupA appears to be completely safe and non toxic without side effects. No toxic effect has been recorded particularly with the whole plant. A person would have to ingest over 100 times the recommended dosage to have ill effects like nausea. In regards to single constituents, there have not been any toxic reactions to date but research is still determining this factor.

HupA comes in capsules, tablets and softgels. The typical dosage is 2 mcg (micrograms) per kilo (2.2pounds) of body weight, with the average adult dose around 100mcg per day.  It may be combined with other brain nutrients like gingko, vitamin E, and phospholipids.

As always, it is important that you research for yourself and consult with your health care practitioner before using any substance when treating specific disorder

I find myself fascinated again by the power of nature. In one of my recent journals an article was written about a substance referred to as HupA (huperzine a) which sparked

This article is an excerpt from a previously aired radio talk program “Wellness; A Total Approach To Health” with guest Amanda McQuade Crawford. The topic discussed will deal with menopausal considerations and how a woman can make better decisions when dealing with hormonal balance.

Amanda McQuade Crawford holds a degree in Medical Herbalism from Britain’s School of Herbal Medicine and is a member of England’s National Institute of Medical Herbalist. She is a former council member of the American Herbalist Guild and cofounder of the National College Of Phytotherapy in New Mexico. She has traveled the world lecturing about women’s issues and herbalism. She is the author of book The Herbal Menopause Book.

David Hawkins: Let’s deal with the issue of menopause. Why does the conventional medical system treat this as a disease and how does Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) affect a women’s health?

Amanda Crawford: What we are trying to promote in women’s minds is that menopause is not a failure of the ovaries to produce estrogen. Menopause is not a disease that requires drugs to fix it. Menopause is a huge body change in a women’s hormonal cycle similar to that of puberty. It is a condition that can be self-monitored unless there is history of other health concerns. In herbal therapies we are not just looking for herbs that will raise estrogen levels. We want it understood that just by elevating estrogen levels in a woman all her symptoms would not disappear. For millions of years women’s estrogen levels have been designed to decrease as we age. When we think that hot flashes will just disappear by adding in estrogen, we set the potential for side effects of artificially high levels of estrogen. We are interested in helping the total health of the body by addressing the adrenal glands and how they deal with stress. We use herbs like Siberian Ginseng and nettle leaf as mild gentle tonics that don’t have anything to do with estrogen to help alleviate stress and help many of the symptoms attributed to menopause.

We have many herbal approaches to hot flashes. In a hot flash the hypothalamus in the brain senses a decrease in estrogen. A message is then sent to the pituitary that in turn signals the ovaries to make more estrogen. The ovaries aren’t always able to respond to this signal so the body responds by trying to storm the temperature regulation center with an adrenaline rush to get it moving. This is an attempt to reset the thermostat for heat to reach a higher temperature like on your home’s heating thermostat. During the hot flash you may feel chilled before the actual sensations of heat due to this new heat regulation. The skin gets involved due to dilation (opening) of the blood vessels which brings increased blood flow to the surface of the skin and helps the body to cool based on the new temperature setting.

Hot flashes are affected by stress, caffeine in hot coffee, spicy foods and alcohol. Smoking also makes hot flashes worse. Dietary and herbal approaches would include increase soy based foods, which are high in phytoestrogens, red clover sprouts, alfalfa, lentils and other whole grain foods. Supplementing with Vitamin E and evening primrose oil has also been effective for treating hot flashes.

David Hawkins: Many women are concerned today with Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) due to hysterectomies. The issues of heart disease and osteoporosis are also concerns. How do you address these with herbals?

Amanda Crawford: Due to the known risk factors of HRT (mainly increased risk of hormonal driven cancers, estrogen driven fibroids and hormonal migraines) many women are seeking reasonable alternatives. There are times when HRT is necessary, but one has to remember that drugs are strong and side effects are an issue. In a study done in England, researchers used black cohosh tincture at specific doses and time periods and found the results to be equivalent to HRT therapy. The use of phytoestrogens again comes into the picture here. Phyto, meaning plant based, does not mean that they contain actual hormones but have substances that have mild effects like hormones. They do not become hormones but attach to estrogen receptors and have either preventive or therapeutic properties. They are safer and have fewer side effects. Again soy foods are high in genistein and diadzein; two phytoestrogens. One cup of soybeans has the equivalent in phytoestrogen as one .625 Premarin.

In dealing with osteoporosis there is more to it than just exercise and estrogen issues. It is more important to make sure the calcium you are getting is bioavailable (meaning easily absorbed through the digestive process). Milk is not the best source or chewing Tums or even some forms of calcium in tablet form. Food form is best like soy foods, green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds (sesame) are good.

In regard to the issue of low estrogen and heart disease, this is still under investigation. Because many of our health conditions are attributed to lifestyle imbalances (specifically heart disease), to single out one hormone is very simplistic. Both of these issues are addressed in my book.

David Hawkins: My last question involves the use of progesterone creams that have hit the market. What do you think of them? (Mainly wild yam creams.)

Amanda Crawford: What is often called natural progesterone from wild yam or other sources is actually diosgenin, one of the steroidal saponins found in wild yam that has been synthesized in a pharmaceutical lab to be converted into progesterone. It is not all that natural; it is not the straight natural plant material made into a cream. It is progesterone. However, there are companies that make wild yam creams that are beneficial for vaginal dryness or discomfort. Just understand the difference. Plants are far more than the chemistry, just like human beings are more than the enzymes and the biochemistry that makes us up. We are also our personalities and our spirits. When you go into a lab and try to isolate one constituent, you are missing the whole.

This fascinating topic is addressed on a more complete level in the book, The Herbal Menopause Book -- Herbs, Nutrition And Other Natural Therapies.

One of the biggest health complaints Americans make deals with digestion. Whether it is gastric reflux, gas, bloating, ulcers, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), etc., it all leads to discomfort, and the current choice of therapy are medications that will reduce the production of HCl (hydrochloric acid). Over 100 million Americans suffer from heartburn and literally spend millions of dollars on OTC preparations (mainly antacids) to try to stop it. Let’s look at some of the causes and natural remedies that can bring relief.

According to Dr. Patrick Donavan, naturopathic physician, “There are many causes of GI disorders, including dietary and nutritional factors, food allergies, viral and bacterial infections, parasites and stress. They can be secondary to problems with the pancreas, liver or gallbladder, all of which are involved in digestion.” He further states that “Many of these disorders involve inflammation of part of the digestive tract and this disturbance can lead to malabsorption and nutritional deficiency.”

I always say that I come from the school of digestion. In all my years of study digestion of food is critically important to good health. We used to say “You are what you eat” this is true but now we say “You are what you assimilate”. Digestion and absorption involve many processes and many organs. It all begins in the brain when you begin to think about food. Just the smell of food will activate enzymes in the stomach in preparation of what is to come. The first thing to assess is the quality and quantity of the food you are eating. The typical SAD (standard American diet) of high fat, high refined carbohydrates, laden with preservatives and additives, as well as improper food combining, lack of dietary fiber from fresh fruits and vegetables are the leading cause of digestive disorders.

Because many gastric disorders share the same symptoms of inflammation, bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, diarrhea, etc., the treatment protocols include dietary restrictions, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies and stress reduction. Some of the main dietary factors causing digestive disturbances are red meat, refined oils, excessive salt, alcohol, refined sugar and carbonated beverages.

It is interesting to study the acid vs. alkaline quality of the foods you eat. This balance is critical to the elimination of negative symptoms. There are charts available so you can learn which foods to eat and which ones to avoid. In regards to the natural energetic system approach to healing, the following foods are beneficial in aiding digestion. The grains of millet and corn, collard greens, all squash, carrots, apples, oranges, salmon, tuna and shitake mushrooms all have soothing properties to the stomach lining. Fresh juices have also been used and would include carrot, celery and cabbage.

Some other dietary guidelines are to restrict the amount of fluid you drink with your meals. Excessive fluids have a tendency to dilute the enzyme juices of the stomach and dilute the digestive power. Another recommendation is that if you drink fluids with a meal that it not be iced. The cold temperature inhibits the release of enzymes needed for proper digestion. It is also advised to not eat heavy fat or protein foods late at night. The body is ready for sleep and repair, and when you put these types of foods into the body at that time they do not get broken efficiently.

Let’s look at some herbal remedies for some of these types of disorders:

• Chamomile – is a carminative (gas relieving), nervine, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory herb used for travel sickness, restlessness, diarrhea and ulcers. Can bed used in tea form.

• Peppermint – mints have the ability to relieve gas and are antispasmodic. They have been used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and gallbladder attacks.

• Fennel seed – the tea is used as a carminative and either suppresses or enhances appetite. Tastes good, too.

• Licorice root – the deglycyrrhizinated form in chewable tablets has shown benefits for heartburn and ulcers. It works on rebuilding the stomach lining.

• Slippery elm bark – is very soothing for the stomach and intestinal lining inflammation. The tea form is better than eating the bark in capsules. Cooking this herb brings out these beneficial properties. One can use marshmallow root in the same manner.

• Ginger – is gas relieving, aids digestive process, is a great anti-inflammatory and aids liver function. Helps with bloating symptoms. One tsp grated fresh root to one 8-ounce cup of hot water steeped for 10 minutes. Drink shortly after meal for best results.

The herbs listed above are beneficial as teas or cooked within the food you are eating. Ginger, fennel and mint can be added to salad dressings or added in cooking. I also use herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil and oregano. They all have beneficial properties to aid digestion.

There are two other supplements that I recommend with chronic gastrointestinal disorder and they are:

• Probiotics – these are beneficial bacteria that live in the linings of our body, specifically the digestive tract. They are helpers to the digestive process and need to be nourished. Good sources are naturally fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, miso and yogurt, etc. These are commonly referred to as acidophilus or bulgaricus strains of bacteria. If you supplement, make sure that the bacteria are active and alive.

• Enzymes – digestive enzymes are necessary to break down food. If your body has a lack of them, it will be necessary to take them in supplement form. They will contain pepsin, papain, betaine, hydrochloride and pancreatin. Another source of enzymes are plant based and are in the form of protease, lipase, amylase, cellulose and lactase. Taking them with your meal will help your body to assimilate your food better.

There are numerous natural approaches to digestive disorders. As with any type of therapy, educate yourself and seek the advice of a naturally trained professional. One good resource is the book Foundations of Health, The Live and Digestive Herbal by Christopher Hobbs.

As I stated in my last article dealing with cancer and nutrition, I laid out the groundwork about the importance of diet, how it relates to body systems, and what the individual can do to aid the healing process when dealing with cancer. Today's article will focus on more specific nutrients that appear in the research and literature. It is important to consult with your healthcare professional when seeking these types of therapies and protocols.

Let's begin with the basics. The three main areas to be addressed are:

1) Preventing malnutrition

2) bolstering the immune functions

3) the use of specific nutrients as biological response modifiers

Due to the fact that cancer is a serious wasting disease, it is estimated that approximately 40% of all cancer patients die of malnutrition. Nutritional support is not the cure-all, but it does prevent malnourishment.  According to Donald Yance Jr., CNMH, a protein shake is recommended once or twice a day, fortified with soy protein, combined with fresh live bacteria yogurt, and the addition of a powdered multivitamin and mineral powder. 

Many other nutrients can be added to this shake, like flax oil, enzymes, liquid herbals, and specific powdered vitamins. The shake is a great way to get high-level nutrients without having to take a lot of capsules or tablets.  Some people prefer to take vitamin tablets, which are fine, but usually the standard OTC multivitamin does not contain enough of the vital nutrients to do much good. It is recommended to find one that is higher in potencies and from natural sources.

The multivitamin is the first of the foundation nutrients. Next would be an antioxidant formula. The antioxidants include beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, and possibly a combination of other plant-based nutrients.

Next would be the inclusion of an essential fatty acid supplement either in capsule form or liquid, which can be added to a shake. This covers a lot of nutrients and works in our first step to resolve potential deficiencies and help prevent malnutrition.

Some specific fat-soluble vitamins to consider using at higher doses than found in the multiple would include:

·         Beta carotene from the blue green algae source, duneliela Salina. This has been shown to enhance immune proliferation, enhance macrophages (a specialized white cell that consumes cancer cells), and to activate natural killer cells. It is a potent antioxidant and can be used for the treatment and prevention of cancer.

·         Vitamin E. The mixed tocopherols are used. Make sure it is the d-alpha form not the synthetic dl-alpha. This is used as an anti-oxidant and to stimulate the immune functions. It has shown in research to have some anti-tumor activity and protects the body from damage due to radiation and chemotherapy.

·    CoEnzyme Q10. The soft gel is preferred due to better absorption. This helps to oxygenate the blood and prevent cancer cells anaerobic activity. It also protects the heart muscle from damage due to the use of some chemotherapy agents.

     Vitamin C has shown to improve survival time, works with the NK cells to provide material for the production of interferons and interleukins (the substance secreted to kill cancer cells) and to inhibit the ability of cancer cells to spread.

     B-complex vitamins have been shown to improve appetite, energy and to aid with vitamin C. Nutritional yeast is a powder that can be added on salads, soups, popcorn and in the shake.

·        EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids). In the form of fish oil (max EPA), flax oil, borage, and black current seed oil. They reduce inflammation, aid immune response, and restore normal cell activity.

The following minerals need to be addressed also:

·         Potassium and magnesium. These are crucial for cancer recovery. Magnesium helps to stabilize cell membranes and elevates immune activity. Potassium is critical for cellular permeability (the ability for fluids to pass back and forth).

·         Zinc picolinate is better absorbed and works as an antioxidant, and boosts immune functions

·         Selenium is used in the form called seleno-methionine due to better absorption. Selenium helps in a cancer profile due to its ability to bolster immune functions, improve detoxification processes, is directly toxic to tumor cells therefore helping to potentially shrink them.

The next area of bolstering the immune functions becomes very involved, centering on the natural killer cell activity and the macrophage.

The following are nutrients and herbs that have shown to be effective:

·         Beta-glucans are basically a type of sugar molecule that work with receptors onspecialized white cells called the macrophage (big eater). Macrophages are the cells that start and regulate immune processes. They initiate intracellular communication by releasing chemical messengers called cytokines, which communicate with many other areas of the immune system and the brain. One form called beta-1-3-D glucan is available in capsules or powdered form and is derived from the cell walls of bakers yeast. Another area where beta glucans are prevalent is in the medicinal mushrooms, shitake, reishi, and maitake varieties.

         Ara-6 (arabinogalactans) is a substance extracted from the larch tree that has the ability to activate the natural killer cell. The killer cells are what attack cancer cells and destroy them. They secrete potent chemical called interferons and interleukins. Ara-6 has been shown to increase the activity of NK cells. It also helps to stimulate macrophage activity. The trade name is called Larix.

·             There are other herbals that can be used concurrently like Echinacea, astragalus, goldenseal, and suma. In working with substances as biological response modifiers, there are many areas of research. The main area I want to address is protecting the liver throughout the cancer process.

When dealing with chemotherapy and radiation, the liver becomes an overtaxed organ. This becomes a critical issue for the survival of the person. There are two supplements that are recommended, milk thistle extract, and NAC (N-acetyl cysteine).

           Milk thistle seed extract has shown to protect the liver cells and to aid in the production of a detoxifying agent produced in the liver called glutathione. It has notoxicity and does not appear to be contraindicated with chemotherapy. Doses are usually high, 400-600 mg of active silymarin daily.

     NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a sulphur bond amino acid that aids the increasedproduction of glutatione levels. GSH is a potent anti-carcinogen and an important antioxidant.

With cancer overtaking heart disease as the leading killer in this country, with nearly 600,000 deaths annually (a death a minute), and with 1.5 million new cases surfacing yearly, it becomes critically important to assess the nutrition of the individual in any cancer treatment protocols.

I recently lectured to the Mid-Ohio Valley Cancer Support Group, and the following article will be a summary of the lecture and information I have been studying for many years now.

This information comes from many sources: Beating Cancer With Nutrition by Patrick Quillin, PHD, RD, CNS; Cancer and Natural Medicine by John Boik; Nutritional Oncology and Cancer and The Search For Selective Biochemical Inhibitors by Hoffman. These are only a small percentage of my resources. Since this is a large topic and there is not enough room in this article, I will have room for only a short discussion.

There is a changing paradigm when it comes to treating cancer with nutrition. Conventional medicine uses three main ways for treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and radiation) in its fight against cancer. Basically, bringing out the big guns to attack and kill cancer cells, many times at the demise of the organism.

This new paradigm is stating that cancer cells developed due to internal environmental conditions that need to be assessed on an individual basis. By changing the environment, we see changes in the organism. This is not intended to dissuade those from the use of the other treatments but to use nutrition concurrently with them.

First, it is important that we understand a little about how cancer cells function. In 1931 Nobel Prize winner Otto Warburg, PhD, discovered that cancer cells have a fundamentally different energy metabolism compared to healthy cells.  When we talk about metabolism, we look at two processes: aerobic and anaerobic. 

Healthy cellular metabolism is referred to as aerobic, which requires the nutrient oxygen that can burn sugar, fat and protein in its energy processing. Anaerobic metabolism does not require oxygen while normal cells do. Cancer cells are anaerobic, also called sugar feeders. Due to these metabolic differences, this is the first clue to working with diet and nutrition.

Cancer cells love:

·        Animal proteins - It is recommended to eliminate and reduce high fat red meatsApproximately 40% of cancer patients die of malnutrition. Protein is important but the quality and quantity become an issue. and dairy products.  Fish protein, egg and vegetable source proteins do not tend to drive cancer cells and are preferred.  A condition called cachexia is the wasting syndrome attributed to late stage cancers when the body is basically using muscle tissue for protein.

·         Sugars - The generic term to refer to all simple carbohydrates. Cancer cells loveglucose and any food that has a high glycemic index can contribute to cancer growth. Dr. Keith Block, an oncologist in the Chicago area, states that all sugars must be reduced, even fruits and fruit juices. White flour products, corn, potatoes and soft drinks are to be eliminated.  Especially artificial sweeteners like aspartame.

·         Refined Fats - It is well documented that a high fat intake is a contributor to cancer cell proliferation due to a complex process of how the body deals with fat metabolization. Cancer is considered an inflammatory disorder so hydrogenated highly processed fats become a problem. Trans fatty acids found in margarine are known to create cancer-causing compounds. Flax, olive, and sesame are good oils to use due to anti-inflammatory properties.  Of course, they must be unprocessed.

Some other characteristics that cancer cells exhibit are:

·        Cancer cells thrive in an altered potassium to sodium balance.  For normal metabolism the ratio of potassium to sodium is 4:1; however, it has been noted that cancer patients have a ratio of 1:4, just the opposite. The average daily requirement for sodium is approximately 1,800 to 2,200 mg. The average American consumes approximatelybetween 10,000 to 14,000 mg per day.  It is important to reduce all refined salt that is hidden in many readily prepared food products. Switch to sea salt (reducing the amount is recommended). Also eat more potassium rich foods.

·         An Altered Acid vs. Alkaline Balance - The body has a specific PH that needs to be attended to when dealing with cancer. Cancer cells prefer a more acidic environment for proliferation. Acidic foods would include red meats, sugars, dairy, and refined grains like white rice and wheat products. Alkaline foods are the plant foods, mainly fruits and vegetables. One way to tell if you are over-acidic is if your jewelry turns colors when next to the skin, if insects like mosquitoes are not attracted to you (not too bad), and if you are prone to yeast and fungal infections. A simple way for you to test yourself is with the use of litmus paper. You will need to check the PH of the saliva and the urine at least three times per day. This is fun because it changes throughout the day.

     You will want to get an average reading over the period of one or two weeks.

·        Altered Immune System - Cancer cells have the ability to hide from our own immune system. This is best described in relation to fetal cells that are recognized as self in the womb. Altered immune communication is a very in-depth topic that I have been studying. Dr. Jesse Stoff, who works with immune modulation therapy, is a leader in this country; and I have attended numerous hours of his lectures. Restoring communication is critically important when dealing with NK (Natural Killer Cells) and macrophages.  More on this topic will follow later.

Another area of importance with cancer and nutrition is the liver's involvement. The liver is considered a digestive organ along with hundreds of other functions to life processes. Reducing the toxic load to the liver is critical when dealing with cancer. This is important when dealing with the use of nutrition concurrent with chemo-toxic drugs and radiation therapy.

Aiding detoxification processes and protecting the liver cells with the use of nutritional supplements like selenium and milk thistle extract have both shown good results. It is important to eliminate alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Also, one needs to reduce chemical laden foods with preservatives and artificial colorants.

I want to stress that this is a simplified overview of how important nutrition becomes when dealing with cancer.  I have given some brief dietary recommendation and will address the use of supplementation of specific nutrients in my next article.

As stated by Nobel Laureate in 1949, Albert Schweitzer, MD. "Each patient carries his own doctor inside him.  We are at our best when we give the doctor who resides within a chance to go to work."

Click for PART 2

NUTRITION AND ITS IMPORTANCE

IN CANCER THERAPY

Obesity is a serious health condition and is on the rise according to the U.S. Center For Disease Control and Prevention. At least one third of Americans are 20% overweight. Even though this country is experiencing a fitness craze, Americans are heavier, over-stressed, and less likely to exercise on a regular basis.  Although Americans spend more than $34 billion a year on weight loss programs, 95% of those that lose weight, gain it back within one year. This is why losing weight has to involve a major lifestyle change. This article will deal with some of these changes.

Obesity has been implicated in numerous health conditions from high blood pressure, heart disease, gallbladder disease, respiratory conditions, kidney disease, diabetes, and structural stress due to more pressure on the back, legs, and internal organs. Other factors that can contribute to obesity are glandular malfunctions (adrenals, pancreatic, thyroid), hypoglycemia, food allergies, emotional tension, boredom, and the love of food.

The most common causes of obesity are poor diet, poor eating habits, and lack of exercise. Sluggish metabolism, chemical toxicity, and impaired thermogenesis (the ability of the body to produce heat) are the results of these dietary imbalances and organ malfunctions.

The truths and fallacies about obesity according to Dr. Gus Prosch, an obesity specialist, are designed to help you save time, money, effort and disappointment. They are as follows:

 Truths:      

·         If obese, you have a lifetime disease.

·         Your metabolic processes will always tend to be abnormal.

·         You cannot eat what others eat and stay thin.

·         Anyone can lose weight and stay slim provided the causes are determined, addressed and corrected.

·         Understanding that insulin metabolism is the key to intelligently losing weight.

·         There is absolutely no physiological requirement for sugar or processed foods in your diet.

·         You must address all the contributing factors causing obesity.

 Fallacies:

·         Fad diets can successfully make you lose weight and keep it off.

·         Most physicians can make you lose weight and keep it off.

·         Today's many weight loss programs and weight clinics can successfully make you lose weight and keep it off.

·         Past experience shows that counting calories is a good way to help lose weight.

·         Your weight problem is caused from overeating and/or lack of exercise.

·         If you could only lose enough weight to get slim, you could keep the weight of continuously.

·         There is no way that you can lose your weight and keep it off.

 Traditionally, there are three basics when approaching weight loss management through nutritional supplements.  The first is reducing water retention by using nutrients and herbs that work as diuretics.  Remember that when we do not get enough water, the body tends to retain it. Second, the use of lipotropic supplements which have the ability to reduce fat and cholesterol; and thirdly, the use of natural appetite suppressants. And now establishing glandular balance has been added.

 Because the typical American diet includes refined and processed foods with high fat and sugar intake, diet becomes the most important factor when dealing with weight loss. A whole foods, whole grain, high complex carbohydrate, low fat, high fiber diet appears to be the most beneficial.

 The following guidelines have been determined to be helpful:

·         Don't worry about calories. Pay more attention to the type of calorie. Do they come from digestible fat, protein or carbohydrate?

·         Eat more complex carbohydrates (tofu, beans, seeds, whole grains). Poultry and fish provide adequate protein and improve metabolism.

·         Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Incorporate a balance between raw and cooked foods. Vegetarians have less problems with obesity.

·         Drink at least six to eight glasses of clean water daily.  Diuretic herbal teas can be beneficial in eliminating water weight. Teas of red raspberry, alfalfa and oatstraw taste good, too.  Don't drink too much with meals though.  It can weaken the digestive process.

·         Watch fat grams in the foods you select. Eat digestible oils like extra virgin olive oil, canola, sesame and flax.  Remember it is the liver that has to metabolize fats.

·         Restrict white flour products and refined sweets in the form of soda, pastries, pies, cakes, etc. Artificial sweeteners have been shown to increase weight gain by increasing appetite and slowing down digestion.

·         Eat more fiber.  It creates fullness, decreases hunger, and regulates blood sugar.

 Many people believe that not eating regular meals is going to help them lose weight quicker.  This is a fallacy.  Do not skip meals; this only intensifies hunger and slows metabolism down. Make your main meal lunch, not dinner. This helps you to burn off what you have eaten.  At meal times put less on your plate, chew your food slowly, and stop when you feel full.  The body needs food to be able to maintain thermogenesis, which is the heat generated by the breakdown of food. It is like a wood fire, you need to keep feeding in wood or the fire goes out. You need to keep your metabolic fire burning.

 Of course, exercise needs to be factored into this profile. Without exercise weight loss comes from burning of lean tissue and water loss. With exercise weight loss comes from burning of fat. Walking regularly is a good way to go.

 The basic arithmetic of weight loss is that each pound of body fat is worth 3,500 calories. Thus, to lose one pound a week (a safe and reasonable goal), you must tip the calorie consumption/expenditure balance in your favor by 500 calories a day.

 Some essential nutrients that can aid weight loss are:

·         Chromium Picolinate  -- Helps to maintain better sugar balance and reduces cravings.  It helps the pancreas/liver conversion of fat to energy.

·         Essential Fatty Acids -- Flax seed, evening primrose and/or salmon oil help liver functions and cellular energy.  They work with hormonal balance also.

·         Kelp -- Contains trace mineral important for proper thyroid function.

·         Spirulina -- This is a good source of protein and helps to stabilize blood sugar.

·         Digestive Enzymes -- Aid the breakdown of your foods. They breakdown protein, fat, dairy, fiber, etc.

·         Phenylalanine -- Has shown benefits with appetite suppression but one must use with caution if blood pressure problems exist.

·         Garcinia Cambogia -- Contains a substance called HCA (Hydroxycitric Acid). It helps suppress hunger but also keeps the body from turning carbohydrate calories into fat.

I want readers to be aware of numerous products on the market that work to increase the process of thermogenesis.  These products contain ephedra/ma huang (ephedrine), kola nut (caffeine), guarana (caffeine) and a mix of other herbs like diuretics and laxatives. These products can be helpful but must be used with guidance due to problems associated with heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure and overworking of the adrenals.  Use common sense and do some research on your own.  Consult with a holistic practitioner.

]]> herbdoc@motherearthworks.com (Dave Hawkins) http://www.motherearthworks.com/health-reports/health-conditions/obesity-and-weight-management Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:31:18 -0500 USD 1463 Dave Hawkins 10 13 http://www.motherearthworks.com/images/report/Obesity%20And%20Weight.jpg http://www.motherearthworks.com/health-reports/health-conditions/osteoporosis-what-is-it-and-how-can-it-be-prevented http://www.motherearthworks.com/product_reviews/osteoporosis-what-is-it-and-how-can-it-be-prevented

Recently I have been reading a lot about pain relievers and decided to do some research regarding the causes of pain and how it can be treated naturally. Of course we are all familiar with the most common pain reliever: aspirin. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is the synthetic form of salicylic acid that occurs naturally in many plants. Dr. Bayer, a German physician, synthesized it many years ago. Natural forms of salicylates are found in willow bark, meadowsweet and wintergreen.

Many of you are familiar with NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. One definition I like for this class of drugs is what Dr. Michael Murray refers to as "New Sources Of Aspirin In Disguise". When looking deeper into the use of NSAIDs, you discovery that they are a double-edged sword. They relieve pain but at what price to the body, especially when you have to take high doses. Known side effects include: dyspepsia, peptic ulcerations, liver impairment, and kidney insufficiency. For over three decades medical literature has warned about the negative side effects. The use of these drugs is staggering, with over 35 million prescriptions written in 1995 alone and billions of dollars spent on non-prescription OTC NSAIDs. It is estimated that 107,000 people annually are admitted into hospitals with complications from NSAIDs and more than 16500 deaths occur from gastrointestinal bleeding annually. With this problem in mind, medical science has been trying to alleviate this problem. In 1998, the FDA approved a new class of aspirin-like drugs called COX-2 inhibitors. These are sold under the name Celebrex and Vioxx. Over 2 two million prescriptions were written in 1999 alone. They are superior to NSAIDs with fewer side effects but are more costly. The question becomes: are there natural ways to block COX-2 (cyclooxigenase)?

Let’s look at how inflammation is formed and how the COX-1 and Cox-2 enzymes play a part in it all. Pain is a natural response mechanism of the body when under stress. Stress can be from many sources: injury, muscle tension, and degeneration of joint tissue. Pain due to injury and inflammation is a complex biochemical process involving a hormone substance called a prostaglandin. The Prostaglandin E-2 is the producer of inflammatory processes in the body. Aspirin and NSAIDs block the production of PGE-2 by the use of an enzyme system called cyclooxigenase. It was discovered in 1991 that there are two parts of this enzyme COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is a constant physiological housekeeper, so to speak. It is involved in the regulation of day to day cellular and metabolic activity such as maintaining stomach lining integrity, regulating blood flow to the kidneys and balancing blood platelet functions. The COX-2 expresses itself in response to a variety of pro-inflammatory stimuli and is found in the brain, male and female reproductive organs, kidneys and in bone forming tissues. COX-2 regulates prostaglandin E-2 within the cells. Remember inflammation is a vital part of healing and repairing. Aspirin works by inhibiting COX. NSAIDs and aspirin inhibit both forms of COX thus the side effect problems.

Let's look at some natural substances that work to block COX-2.

The first one is the herb turmeric. Turmeric contains a substance called curcumin. Turmeric is long been used in Asia and India in curries. There are several studies that show the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric. Specifically it inhibits COX-2 in chronic inflammation, colon cancer, crohn's disease, irritable bowel, and have chemo-protective factors. It is safe and without side effects.
· Ginger root, a relative of turmeric, has been also shown to be anti-inflammatory by blocking the formation of prostaglandin E-2 along similar pathways involving COX-2.

· The ayurvedic herb boswella contains a substance boswellin that is not a COX-2 inhibitor but shows results when used in combinations with the above-mentioned herbs.

· Omega -3 fatty acids found in the form of fish oil have been beneficial in reducing pain specifically in treating some cancer, heart disease, and both forms of arthritis. A recent study found that omega-3 fatty acids (and none of the other fatty acids) dose dependently inhibited the production of Cox-2 without inhibiting Cox-1.

· Resveratrol is a phytochemical found in the grape skin. It was determined in 1997 that the anti-inflammatory effects were due to Cox-2 inhibition.

The compounds flavanoids and phenolics are classes of plant chemicals that hold some promise as Cox-2 inhibitors. These include substances like quercetin (found in onions, and gingko), genistein (from soybeans), and polyphenols from green tea.

One thing about natural COX-2 inhibitor is that they are slower acting than their synthetic counterpart. It takes weeks for the benefits to be noticed enough to reduce pain. This leads us to a few other substances that can work along side to produce quicker benefits.

The use of willow bark, meadowsweet, and wintergreen as analgesics combined with nervines like skullcap, passion flower and feverfew can help take the edge off pain. The use of cayenne pepper has promise in blocking the formation of substance p in the brain, a natural pain blocker.

The use of b-complex vitamins along with calcium/magnesium can reduce tension in muscles and nourish the nervous system. The use of DL-phenylalnine (a protein amino acid) has shown to increase the level of pain relieving endorphins. It takes a period of two weeks to be effective.

Some dietary restrictions would apply with the reduction of red meat due to high levels of arachadonic acid, the precursor to PGE-2 formation. Reducing the use of refined and artificial sweeteners along with the elimination of soda pop. Increasing the use of water is also recommended. One study showed that inflammation has dehydration as part of its pathway.

As with any condition it is important for you to do your homework and consult with your healthcare professional of choice when dealing with specific conditions.

(Article by David Hawkins, MH, CNC)

The most common illness affecting the gallbladder is gallstones. It is estimated that roughly 20 million Americans are affected, mostly women and ethnic groups. Predisposing factors include aging, obesity, family history, pregnancy, estrogen use, and eating a highly refined Western diet. There are over 500,000 gallstone surgeries performed annually in the United States alone. This article will look into the causative factors and how gallstones can be prevented.

What is the purpose of the gallbladder and how does it perform its functions? Many of us do not really know how important the gall bladder is or even where it is located. Bile is a substance produced in the liver from cholesterol, minerals, and phospholipids (fats containing phosphorous) that serves two functions: (1) Making dietary fats more digestible and (2) excreting cholesterol and other metabolic byproducts from the body. Once bile is sent to the gallbladder, it becomes concentrated and stored until needed.

That need arises whenever we eat any food containing fats or oils. We all know that fat and water do not mix well; and the makeup of our systems consists of fats that are large molecules and our blood stream that is mostly water. Bile is secreted along with other enzymes to help breakdown the dietary fats so that they can be absorbed in the intestines.

Most gallstones are comprised of cholesterol and the element calcium, known as a calcium oxalate. Stone formation has a lot to do with diet, which we will review in a few moments. Stone formation happens when the bile acids are heavily laden with cholesterol; which when combined with calcium, forms the stones. This happens especially if bile flow is impaired or restricted. Most people are without symptoms until an acute flair-up that can include the following: Pain or tenderness on the right side of the body, gas and bloating, nausea and vomiting of bile. Symptomatic

The most common remedy for painful gallstones is the removal of the gallbladder. There are three other non-surgical options available to the person, but most doctors do not recommend them. It also depends on the severity of the situations as to which treatment protocol is recommended. The three other therapies are:

Bile Acid Therapy involves the oral administration of ursodiol a specific type of acid. The length of time ranges from 6 months to years with varied success rates.

Contact Solvent Therapy involves pumping a solvent directly into the gallbladder to dissolve stones. It takes usually one session, but is wrought with side effects.

Lithotripsy uses high energy, ultrasound shockwaves to break up stones so they can exit the gallbladder easily.

Just remember that none of these therapies address the underlying causes of gallstones.

So what can a person do to reduce the risk of developing gallstones? Let’s begin with fat modifications. There are many studies linking dietary fat to the formation of gallstones. Specifically, saturated and hydrogenated fats are the culprits. This includes margarine and high processed vegetable oils used in snack foods and fast foods. Animal products high in fat are also implicated in the role of how dietary fats are absorbed by the body. The best oils for ingestion would be olive oil, flax oil, sesame, and high oleic safflower oil. I wrote some time back about how to judge the quality of oil and that is available as a handout. Highly processed oils are very difficult for the body to digest; and once eliminated, many gallstone suffers find some relief. The healthy oils mentioned usually do not cause problems, but one should use them with caution at first.

Dietary fiber is next since dietary fiber appears to deter the synthesis and absorption of secondary bile acids. Fiber is believed to help carry these bile acids out of the body quicker. Food allergies have been implicated in gallbladder symptoms. These foods would include, eggs, pork, onions, milk, coffee, poultry, nuts and seeds. Excessive sugar consumption may also pose a risk factor in gallstone development. Because sugar consumption triggers insulin release by the pancreas, it also increases cholesterol synthesis by the liver. Excessive sugar consumption also is related to elevated triglycerides (a fat storage molecule) which are associated with cholesterol saturations. Another idea about sugar is that due to its acidity factors, it causes the leeching of calcium from the bones as a way to balance this acidity problem. Since stones are made up mostly of calcium oxalates and cholesterol, it makes sense.

A supplement regime for the prevention of gallstones would include:

Traditionally, herbs classified as cholerectics and cholagogues were used to either increase the production of bile or the flow of bile. Herbs like barberry, burdock root, dandelion root, globe artichoke, goldenseal, greater celandine, Oregon grape root, and milk thistle would be included in these classifications.

Of course preventing gallstones makes more sense then waiting for something to happen. There are many ways to deal with gallbladder problems. Be sure to consult with your healthcare practitioner for advice.

(Article by David Hawkins, MH, CNC)

With the shortening of the days during the winter season, especially in Northern climates, a disorder called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) becomes more prevalent. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of clinical depression otherwise called “winter blues.” It generally peaks during the months of January and February. Typical symptoms can include difficulty waking, decreased energy, carbohydrate cravings, increased appetite, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, decreased libido, withdrawal from friends and family, anxiety and irritability.

According to Dr. Norman Rosenthal, author of the book Winter Blues, an estimated 25 million Americans are affected by this disorder, but not all are affected enough to require medical attention. Dr. Rosenthal was one of the first physicians to bring this to the public eye over 20 years ago.  

It has been noted that SAD is four times more prevalent in females than males. One explanation currently linked to the cause of SAD is that the lack of light exposure, particularly sunlight, affects the pineal gland in the brain. The body's internal clock is regulated by the pineal gland.  This gland is controlled by either the presence or absence of external light, and it functions to synchronize and coordinate the body processes. Melatonin being the chief hormone of the pineal is produced only at night. Production stops when the eyes are exposed to sunlight. Melatonin is thought to be the primary regulator of the immune system. It has sedative properties and helps to reduce anxiety and panic disorders. However, when the days are shorter and cloudy, melatonin levels can stay higher than normal. Those affected with SAD have elevated melatonin levels which can lead to depression, irritability and lethargy. Another neurotransmitter called serotonin plays a part in this balance with melatonin. Serotonin helps to keep us calm, reduces stress and anxiety, and aids sleep. During the winter months the body produces less serotonin.  One deficiency symptom of this is carbohydrate or sugar cravings. People with SAD tend to overeat and crave these "comfort foods."

Now that we understand this disorder better, let’s look at some ways to treat it naturally. This can include all or some of the following: Nutritional, herbal, exercise, meditation and light therapy.  Nutritional therapies would include treatment protocol similar to treating mild to moderate depression.   This would include:
·         B- Complex vitamins high in folic acid, B6 and B12

·         Vitamin C

·         Tyrosine and or phenylalanine

·         SAM (S-Adenosyl-Methionine)

·         5 HTP (5 Hydroxyl-Tryptophane)

·         EFA's (flax, borage, evening primrose)

·         Melatonin

Herbally, the use of St. John's Wort has shown to be effective. In recent studies the standardized extract was used at a dosage of 300 mg, 3 times a day; and it takes at least two weeks for anyone to notice its effectiveness. Many of you are aware of St. John's Wort due to much media coverage.  If you try it, remember to get a product that has been used in clinical trials. Not all products on the market are the same quality.  I find it interesting that the active constituents that account for its clinical status in mild depression have changed over the last few years. Just last year, it was noted at a two-day conference on St. John's Wort that hypericin is not the active component but a constituent called hyperforin. I prefer to use a product that has the whole herb with it having had the constituents measured.

A very vital part to SAD is the use of light therapy. There have been dozens of studies over the past decade that found using light therapy relieves most of the symptoms of winter blues. Due to the lack of sunlight or natural light during the winter months, it is important to purchase full spectrum lights. They are available in florescent, incandescent, halogen, floodlight, three-way and plant bulbs. Vitalite and Chromalux are the brands with which I am most familiar. I use them at home and in the workplace due to lack of windows. The original light therapy work was developed by using a light box. Early boxes would produce light in the range of 2,500 lux. Most room lighting falls within 1,000 lux. By comparison, full sun without clouds can produce up to 100,000 lux. So you can see the range of light needed. Most light boxes today put out 10,000 lux.  For therapeutic effects a person would sit in front of the light box over a period of hours each day. There is some controversy as to the best times of the day for this to take place.

Dr. John Ott in considered the pioneer in the field of full spectrum, color correcting task lighting. By accident he discovered the biological benefits of lighting while working on a project for Walt Disney back in the early sixties. His company, Ott Bio Lighting Systems, manufacturers a patented system of lighting now the subject of research.

If you know or suspect that you are experiencing SAD, there is a lot of information available to you.  The following books might be helpful:

Winter Blues by Dr. Norman Rosenthal
Natural Alternatives to Prozac by Michael Murray, ND,
Dealing With Depression Naturally by Syd Baumel.

Remember to go outside during the winter, especially on sunny days, and take a walk in the park.



 


 

 

(Article by David Hawkins, MH, CNC)

There is no doubt that foremost for the prevention and treatment of heart disease is the management of cholesterol. One cannot only look at the overall cholesterol to make proper assessments. The ratios of HDL to LDL is important, and the ratio of HDL to total cholesterol, the ratio of cholesterol to total triglycerides, the protective factors of homocysteine and lipo-a factors, and the absence of inflammation all need to be assessed to give a complete picture of a person’s cardiovascular risk.

Let‘s look a bit deeper into these values. HDL cholesterol is referred to as good because it is being transported back to the liver for processing. It protects the heart. Most standard test values put the low range at 35 mg/dl. The higher this number the more protective the factors. LDL cholesterol is being transported to tissues, and higher levels are considered to increase risk factors. The ratio of HDL to LDL is one way of assessing if cholesterol is depositing into tissues or being broken down properly.

Of course, we know that dietary factors influence our cholesterol levels. The U.S. Surgeon General and the American Heart Association recommend six guidelines:

• Reduce total fat intake to less than 30 percent of total calories

• Eat five or more servings of fresh vegetables and fruits daily

• Increase fiber intake

• Maintain protein intake at moderate levels

• Balance food intake with exercise

• Limit the intake of alcohol, refined carbohydrates, and salt

The main problem with us Americans is that we find it difficult to adopt a healthy lifestyle and would prefer to eat "junk" food and take medicines no matter the cost physically and to the pocketbook. This is where drugs like the statin family are being promoted.

Let’s look at this class of medications. You might be familiar with Lipitor, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor. These are players in the statin family. They are classed as HMG Co A reductase inhibitors. What does that mean? These drugs inhibit the enzymes required for the manufacture of cholesterol in the liver. Doesn't sound so bad as a way to reduce cholesterol; however, in preventing the enzymes from working, the statins block the manufacture of other substances necessary for body functions. One major nutrient important in preventing heart disease is the enzyme Co Q10. As stated in a recent book The Drug Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook, and I quote "The so-called statin drugs are the prescription of choice for people with high cholesterol. Statin drugs are generally safe and effective for a limited time, but patients should be monitored for possible adverse consequences of Co Q10 reductions during long-term use." Other health problems associated with these drugs are congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and low energy. It is recommended that liver enzymes be checked regularly when using the statin family for long periods of time.

If the goal of reducing cholesterol is to prevent heart attacks, does it make sense to deplete a major nutrient in the process that protects the heart? Co Q10 deficiency has been attributed to numerous cardiac problems like angina, hypertension, mitral valve prolapse, and congestive heart failure. Co Q10 has shown clinically to have beneficial effect on blood triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

Let’s look at a few other nutrients that can be of benefit without negative side effects. The first one being niacin. Niacin or B3 (a B complex member) has long been used to lower cholesterol levels. It is recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Program as the first "drug" of choice. Niacin was the only substance to demonstrate a decreased mortality in a project called the Coronary Drug Project. Because of the high levels used in the studies (1 gram three times a day), it became evident that these dosage levels produced side effects like extreme flushing, stomach irritation, ulcers, liver damage, and fatigue. Straight niacin is no longer recommended; however, another form that does not have any negative side effects is called inositol hexaniacinate or flush- free niacin. This form has been in use for a long time in Europe. Niacin's ability to lower cholesterol showed about a 20% decrease in overall cholesterol with a 32% increase in HDL cholesterol.

Another of the B family is a nutrient called pantethine. This is a derivative of pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid is the most important component of CoA (coenzyme A) which is used to transport fats to and from cells. Remember statin drugs and how they inhibit CoA? Pantethine has been shown to lower cholesterol levels by 20%, increase HDL by 23%, and lower triglycerides by 32%.

Garlic and onion have numerous benefits to the cardiovascular system. The equivalent of one clove of garlic or one half an onion a day has been shown to reduce overall cholesterol by 10-15% with a great benefit to the elevation of the HDL cholesterol by as much as 30%.

The extract from the myrrh tree called gum guggul has shown great results in lowering overall cholesterol, elevating HDL, and lowering triglycerides. Two compounds called guggulesterones are responsible for these effects. These effects were noted without dietary changes over a short period of time. One nice thing about guggul is that there are no side effects, and it is safe to use during pregnancy. Guggul has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years.

There is much research going on in relation to cholesterol and heart disease. Of course, lifestyle modifications are the best way to bring about balance; however, each person is unique and must be assessed individually. Do research on your own if you are interested in a natural approach and be sure to consult with your health care practitioner.

With the change of seasons and the temperature dropping, many folks are experiencing an increase in incidence of cold and flu. I have had numerous emails and calls regarding my opinions of flu shots, so I decided to write about some of the latest information on how to prevent cold and flu. I have written about this topic before but from a different angle. I will revisit some of the concepts in previous articles.

What is a cold? What is the flu? There are over 200 viruses that can cause the common cold or influenza. The main differences are in the symptoms. An individual with a cold will exhibit general malaise, fever, headache, and upper respiratory tract congestion. A watery discharge, dry, sore throat and thicker mucus secretion are typical. With the flu you will have the same type of symptoms but they will be more severe with body aches.

The flu also usually occurs as epidemics, which is why flu (influenza) vaccines are being promoted. Because there are so many strains of flu, swine, Asian, Russian, to name a few, how do you know that the vaccine you get will cover your specific type of flu? The safety and efficacy of flu vaccines is debatable. Viruses are divided into three categories: A, B, and C. You might get vaccinated for type A and still get the flu because it is a different strain. Despite warnings of adverse effects of both trialed "live" and "killed” vaccines, flu vaccines have been gradually introduced to the market. Reported post vaccine reactions include encephalomyelitis (acute inflammation of the brain), Guillain-Barre'Syndrome (a form of paralysis), neurological illness, neuritis (inflammation of the nerves), and suspected autoimmune disorders. Analysis of some data shows that there is no difference in the incidence of flu in individuals receiving flu vaccine and those not receiving the vaccine. Trials demonstrated that the vaccine is ineffective in preventing disease and produces unacceptable reactions in children.

Of course there are always going to be certain conditions that may warrant the need for a flu vaccine, specifically elderly with cardiac weakness or immunological weakness such as cancer or Aids. My recommendation is for you to do more research and make a decision based on that.

Let's look at some of the underlying issues involved with colds and flu and how we can overcome some of the symptoms and even prevent it from happening.

Paying attention to the foods we eat can help avoid creating the imbalances and toxicity that leads to illnesses of all sorts. It is important to avoid the foods that decrease immune functions. Research shows that the intake of refined sugars reduces the function of white blood cells. This includes white sugar, corn syrup, alcohol and even natural sweeteners like honey, dried fruit, fruit juice, and concentrated fruit sweeteners. Excess toxins from animal foods and chemical preservatives and additives need to be reduced also. Dr. Hibbs states that getting extra sleep, drinking more fluid in the form of herbal teas and clean water along with fresh fruits and vegetables will strengthen the immunity as well as aid detoxification processes. Reducing dairy products during a cold or flu outbreak will help to reduce the amount of mucous being eliminated.

What can we do once we begin to feel the symptoms of cold and flu? There are numerous folk remedies that come to mind. Let’s look at some nutritional supplements and some of the herbal remedies that will enhance the immune system and reduce symptoms. Vitamin C has long been touted for the common cold. Dr. Linus Pauling, the father of vitamin C research, recommends taking vitamin C at the onset of a cold or flu; doses of 500 mg to 1000 mg every two hours. This may seem like a lot and it is, but research shows that vitamin C has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and immunostimulant properties. It enhances white blood cell production, increases interferon levels and promotes thymic hormone release that activated the total immunity. At this dosage level, however, some folks may experience stomach upset and loose stool. If one experiences these symptoms, it is recommended that they begin with a lower dose and increase over a slower period of time. Remember there is not any toxicity with the use of vitamin C.

More recently research has targeted the mineral zinc in the form of a zinc lozenge that you dissolve in your mouth at the first onset of a cold or flu. Zinc aspartate is the form used and dosage is one 15 mg tablet every four hours the first 3 days. Zinc maintains a healthy immune system and promotes thymic hormone activity. With the use of zinc, the duration of the cold or flu has been shown to decrease. It also helps with the accompanying symptoms of sore throat. One fact about the use of zinc lozenges is that for it to be effective, it must be ionized with saliva. This means you must suck on the lozenges. The lozenges you take must be free of sorbitol, mannitol, and citric acid. The best lozenges use glycine as a sweetener.

Because the cold and flu virus implant at the throat site before moving into deeper sites in the body, I use a throat spray that includes a compound called beta 1-3 glucan. This compound has been shown to increase the macrophage activity of the immune system thus reducing the number of potential pathogens. I also use the herb elderberry extract for the same purpose. Both substances have been thoroughly researched and have been proven to be effective. Of course, the use of Echinacea, which I hope you are all aware, has been very effective in treating and preventing the spread of cold and flu. Remember that the research shows that the fresh expressed juice from the flower top, leaf and stem of Echinacea Purpurea was the most effective, not the root. The root of the variety Echinacea Angustifolia has been as effective as the fresh pressed juice. Make sure you get the right stuff.

Goldenseal, better known as yellow root, also is beneficial to the immune system. Goldenseal is anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and many germs or pathogens can not live when it is present in the system. The medicinal value is due to the content of berberine, an alkaloid. It is also good for the sinuses when they are plugged up by its action on reducing the inflammation in the sinus tissue.

Another plant familiar to our area is elderberry fruit and flower. In recent research, elderberry extract was found to prevent the spread of cold or flu virus when taken at the first onset of symptoms. Flu viruses implant in the throat first and then move to other areas of the body. They found that elderberry prevents the growth of these viruses. The flower of elderberry has long been combined with yarrow or peppermint to break a fever and to help clear the lungs of congestion.

I also prefer the use of fresh ginger tea. Ginger has numerous properties that aid the body. It helps to clear mucous from the head and lungs and is good for vomiting and nausea. To make a cup of tea, slice 2 or 3 thin slices off the fresh root. Steep the root in boiling water for 10 minutes. You can then add some fresh lemon juice for more flavor.

One other remedy I use is a homeopathic preparation called Oscillococcinum. A recent double blind placebo study in Great Britain confirmed the curative effectiveness of this compound to reduce the severity and duration.

No one likes to come down with a cold or flu. Improving the immune system with lifestyle adjustment seems to be the best way to prevent it.

David Hawkins is owner of Mother Earth Foods and has been a practicing herbalist for over 30 years. He is the past president of the West Virginia Herb Association and is available as a lecturer and for private consultations at the clinic of Integrative Holistic Health Services. Comments and questions may be sent to David Hawkins, 1638 19th St., Parkersburg, WV, 26101 or by email www.motherearthworks.com

It’s that time of year again. The sneezing, the coughing, it’s everywhere you turn. Cold and flu season is upon us. We know that colds and flu are not easy to avoid, but there are steps you can take to minimize your chances of contracting them. If you do become infected, there are several tried and true natural remedies to use for symptom relief and to shorten the duration of your illness.

First of all, what is the difference between a cold and the flu? The influenza virus can cause a wide range of symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headaches, cough, sore throat and congestion. Typically the common cold, which can be caused by one of over 200 viruses, isn’t as severe. Both cold and flu can be transmitted by hand-to-hand contact but can also travel through the air, particularly via coughs and sneezes. So, while hand washing is essential in preventing the spread of these germs, it may not be enough. Your best defense against these illnesses is a powerful immune system.

There are several ways to boost a sluggish immune system. You should start with a good night’s rest, which for the average person should get 6-8 hours of sleep per night. During these hours, the body’s natural defenses are at their peak. Stress, both psychological and physiological, should be avoided when possible. In times of stress, the brain releases cortisol, a hormone that attaches to receptors on the surface of white blood cells, one of the main components of the immune system, and alters their functionality. Also, avoid smoking, sugar, and processed fats. A proper diet is critical in maintaining optimal immune function. An immuno-building diet would include plenty of liquids, fruits and vegetables, garlic, essential fatty acids, and yogurt.

But, what if you do begin to feel the symptoms of cold and flu? There are numerous folk remedies that come to mind. Vitamin C has long been touted for the common cold. Dr. Linus Pauling, the father of vitamin C research, recommends taking vitamin C at the onset of a cold or flu; doses of 500 mg to 1000 mg every two hours. This may seem like a lot and it is, but research shows that vitamin C has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and immunostimulant properties. At this dosage level, however, some folks may experience stomach upset and loose stool. If one experiences these symptoms, it is recommended that they begin with a lower dose and increase over a slower period of time.

More recently research has targeted the mineral zinc in the form of a zinc lozenge that you dissolve in your mouth at the first onset of a cold or flu. Zinc aspartate is the form used and dosage is one 15 mg tablet every four hours the first 3 days. Zinc maintains a healthy immune system and promotes thymic hormone activity. With the use of zinc, the duration of the cold or flu has been shown to decrease.

Because the cold and flu virus implant at the throat site before moving into deeper sites in the body, I use a throat spray that includes a compound called beta 1-3 glucan. This compound has been shown to increase the macrophage activity of the immune system thus reducing the number of potential pathogens. I also use the herb elderberry extract for the same purpose. Both substances have been thoroughly researched and have been proven to be effective. Of course, the use of Echinacea, which I hope you are all aware, has been very effective in treating and preventing the spread of cold and flu.

Newly available in the U.S. this cold season is a traditional South African decoction of Pelargonium sidoides – a geranium unique to the region. Popularized as a “consumption cure” in England in the 19^th century, the remedy is sold under the brand name Umcka. Umcka has been proven in clinical tests to relieve cold symptoms, reduce symptom severity and shorten the duration of the illness. It is available as a syrup or drop and can be used safely by adults and children.

David Hawkins is owner of Mother Earth Foods and has been a practicing herbalist for over 30 years. He is the past president of the West Virginia Herb Association and is available as a lecturer and for private consultations at the clinic of Integrative Holistic Health Services. Comments and questions may be sent to David Hawkins, 1638 19th St., Parkersburg, WV, 26101 or by email www.motherearthworks.com

DEPRESSION: A SIGN OF OUR TIMES

Article by herbalist Dave Hawkins, MH, CNC

  On the news program 20/20, there was a segment on depression and the use of the herb St. Johns Wort. This program went in great detail about this one herb product and how it is helpful in mild to moderate cases of depression.  It also detailed how St. John's Wort is an alternative to the use of Prozac and other anti-depressant medications.

The statistics are staggering as to how many Americans are subjected to depressionProzac had annual sales of over $1.3 billion in 1996.  The medical communities in many countries are calling the U.S. the Prozac nation.  I wanted to address an issue that concerns me when we just see or read reports of one herb that can do it all. (approximately 18 million people). The drug

Let me explain in this article the numerous concerns that need to be looked at in a treatment protocol for depression.  It is not as simple as taking St. John's Wort alone, but a multifaceted approach needs to be looked at that will address the body's ability to correct itself when given the nutrients and the proper environment for healing to take place.

When we hear the word "depression," what does it mean? Depression is a whole body illness.  It involves the nervous system, moods, thoughts, and behavior.  It affects the way we eat, sleep, and feel about ourselves.  It can last anywhere from a few days to weeks, months, or years.  Many people suffering form depression withdraw from society and friends and lose interest in their present circumstances.  Of course, there are many types of depression.  This article will deal with the overview.

Let's look into some of the causes that can be factors in depression:

1.       Nutritional deficiencies - Vitamin C, B Complex vitamins (folic acid, B12, naicin, B6, B1)calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and potassium, essential fatty acids and protein deficiency

2.       Nutritional influences - Excess caffeine, refined sugars, alcohol, high fat intake,    excessive use of aspartame (Nutrisweet)

3.       Low stomach acid and food sensitivity

4.       Low thyroid and adrenal function

5.       Parasites, viruses, and bacteria

6.       Heavy metal and environmental toxins

7.       Allergies

8.       Oral contraceptives and other common drugs (beta blockers, corticosteroids and blood pressure medication)

9.       Anxiety and chronic stress

         Serotonin deficiency

         Chemical imbalance in the brain

Because this disorder is very complex, it is believed that a poor diet greatly influences proper brain behavior. The level of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which regulate our behavior, are controlled by what we eat. The neurotransmitters most commonly associated with mood are dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Dopamine and norepinephrine are produced from the amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine. These substances help us think and act quickly to stimuli and keep us alert.

Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of wellbeing, many cases of depression and other serotonin deficiency disorders the brain is not producing enough serotonin. calmness, relaxation, confidence and concentration.  It is made from the amino acid tryptophane. In

When you look at the biochemistry of the brain and how nutrients get into the brain, it is quite fascinating.  It has been shown in research that a high protein diet is detrimental for people with this deficiency. The brain has a barrier called the blood brain barrier. Only certain substances can get through this barrier, and the only way for that to occur is by a system that is analogous to a bus. Nutrients attach to this bus system and are carried through the barrier. Tryptophane is one of six amino acids that all use the same bus system. If there is too much protein competing for seats, tryptophane gets left out, therefore, a potential for deficiency. 

Once inside the brain tryptophane in converted into a substance call 5 HTP (l-5 hydroxytryptophane) and is then used to produce serotonin.  Many years ago we sold a product called free form amino acid tryptophane. Many of you might have used it. Because I don't have space to go into detail, it is believed there was a conspiracy to get it taken off the market. A bad batch was imported from Japan and resulted in some deaths, and the FDA pulled all tryptophane off the market except in baby food, etc.  It is ironic that it happened in the same year that Prozac hit the market.  Needless to say, reducing heavy animal protein and going with a high complex carbohydrate diet has shown benefits.

Lets look at some of the nutrients that can be supplemented:

·         Tyrosine Amino Acids - Taken in tablet form 500 mg 2-3 x day

·         B Complex - 50-100 mg works with essential fatty acids and amino acids and minerals for proper brain nerve function.

·         Triple Strength Lecithin - Provides the brain with nutrients needed for neurotransmitter production

·         Multi Minerals - Containing calcium, magnesium, chromium, potassium and zinc (found to be deficient in depressed people)

·         5 HTP - Now available on the market 50-300 mg daily. Must be used with caution  (It will potentate SSRI [Prozac] and MAO [valium, elavil, paxol] drugs)

·         Melatonin - Due to its serotonin connection

Dietary consideration would be:

·         Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables

·         Increase whole grains, beans (soybeans)

·         More white fish and salmon

·         Reduce red meat particularly fast food burger and fries. They will cause sluggishness.

In dealing with depression there are many botanicals that work well with the nervous system. We call them nervines and antispasmodic. The following list has all been shown to be helpful in calming and toning the nervous system:

·         St. John's Wort - Used to treat mild to moderate depression. Is a nerve tonic with hypericin and other constituents that work with mono amine oxidation inhibition. This helps to increase certain nerve transmission and elevate mood and emotional stability.

·         Gingko Biloba - Increases circulation to brain providing nutrient and oxygen.

·         Kava Kava - Is used for anxiety and induces calmness.

·         Siberian Ginseng - Works to aid adrenal function and elevate mood works with neurotransmitters.

·        Gota Kola - Aids thyroid and neurotransmitters

·         Lemon Balm - Useful for seasonal affective disorder. Great nervine for stress.

·        Rosemary - Has shown to increase acetylcholine in the brain which aids alertness.

·         Wild oats - Helps to nourish all nerve activity.

As you can see, there is a whole lot more to depression than looking at one substancemake lifestyle adjustment when treating any disorder of the body. for relief. It is important to study and

I did not address the detrimental effects of medication used for depression in the article but hopefully gave some insight as to how you can approach this without reliance on drugs. There are always situations where the need for medication is necessary. Consult with your healthcare practitioner if dealing with these circumstances.

Some good reading material is Natural Alternative To Prozac by Michael Murray, and Depression And Natural Medicine by Rita Elkins.

COPING WITH FIBROMYALGIA

(Article by David Hawkins, MH, CNC)

Due the complexity of this condition, this article will go over the highlights and possible treatment options using natural products.

What is Fibromyalgia (FMS)?

The term is coined from the Latin words fibro (connective tissue fibers), my (muscles), al (pain), and gia (condition of).  FMS is not a new syndrome. William Balfour, a surgeon at the University of Edinburgh, first described it in 1816.  For many years the medical profession has called it by different names including chronic rheumatism, myalgia, pressure point syndrome, and fibrositis.  In 1987 the AMA (American Medical Association) recognized FMS as a true illness and a major cause of debility. It is unfortunate that some physicians still believe it does not exist.  Let's look at some of the symptoms experienced by sufferers and how it is being diagnosed.

Symptoms accompanying this disorder include widespread muscular and joint pain, spasms and diffuse tenderness in many areas of the body, unrefreshed sleep, lack of sleep, fatigue and emotional distress. There are other symptoms that can be present such as chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, TMJ, PMS, panic attack, memory impairment, dizziness and depression. The list is quite extensive when you see how varied each person's symptoms are being exhibited.

The cause of FMS is unknown and the course that it follows is unpredictable.  Diagnosis of FMS is difficult.  It is more like diagnosing what it is not. This is done by clinical elimination. 

However, the following are the criteria for diagnosis: widespread pain, muscle spasm, and fatigue of greater than three-month duration.  Examination of specific sites of the body reveals eleven of the eighteen sites on both sides of the body are painful on palpation.  These sites are around the lower vertebrae of the neck, the insertion of the second rib, the upper part of the thigh bone, middle of the knee joint, muscles connected to base of skull, neck and upper back muscles, muscles of the mid back, side of the elbows, and upper and outer muscles of the buttocks.

Many people with FMS also suffer with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and or environmental illnesses (multiple chemical sensitivity). Conventional treatment options are directed more at treating the symptoms and the management of pain. Therefore, management using non-prescription and prescription medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, local anesthetics, physical therapy and exercise are all used to reduce symptoms.  Anti-depressants are used to promote deep sleep that does seem to help.  This approach is again only helping to maintain and is not directed at treating the cause of the problem.  Again, this is difficult to do because of the complexity of each individual's circumstances.

Let's look at some dietary, nutritional, and herbal support for FMS.  Due to the overlap of multiple system imbalances with these individuals, diet becomes important. Refined sugars, animal products (meat and dairy), caffeine, alcohol, soda pop, and artificial sweeteners, and chemical additives all need to be reduced and or eliminated.  A basic protocol would be to improve digestion, assimilation and elimination of all foods, improve liver functions, boost immune activity, reduce stress on the adrenals glands, and aid nervous system rebuilding processes. 

Let's look at some of the specifics. A good natural multiple vitamin will provide a wide array of nutrients that can be helpful in ruling out nutrient deficiencies. Some other nutrient considerations would include:

B Complex - Provides necessary components for the nerve system and the efficient utilization of carbohydrate and fat assimilation.

Vitamin C - Boosts the immune system, increases energy levels, and has anti-viral properties.

Calcium - Nourishes the nerves and muscles. Works well with magnesium, potassium, and selenium.

Malic Acid and Magnesium - Has shown to be of benefit with the energy production at the muscle site.  Helps to clear muscles of lactic acid buildup. Helpful in sugar metabolism.

Proteolytic Enzymes - Reduce inflammation, aid in food absorption, and are necessary for tissue repair.

 EFAs - Essential fatty acids help reduce pain and balance hormonal factors.

Creatine Monohydrate - Appears to help tissue response but has not been clinically tested.

 SamE - Has been shown clinically to reduce the number of trigger point sensitivity, reduce morning stiffness, and improve mood.

 CO Q10 - Helps to oxygenate the muscle tissues, boost immune functions and increase energy levels.

 5-THP - Tryptophane has been shown to improve mood, boost immune functions and improve sleep.

Probiotics - The use of acidophilus helps build digestive functions especially when digestive weakness is part of the condition.

There are many herbals that would fit into a total approach to FMS.

They would include:

Olive Leaf - Oleoeuropein has antiviral activity and has shown some benefits.

Grape Seed Extract - Protects the muscles from damage and enhance immunity

Astragalus - Enhances immune function and is tonifying to the entire nervous system.

Echinacea - Specific to boosting immune functions.

St. John's Wort - Works well with other nervine herbs to promote sleep and acts as an antiviral agent.

Milk Thistle - Improves liver function by aiding detoxification process.

Licorice Root - Supports adrenal functions and rebuilds energy. Helps reduce detriments of stress.

There are many other complementary therapies that can assist a person suffering with FMS. These would include yoga, tai chi, relaxation techniques, massage therapy, aromatherapy, deep heat therapy, biofeedback, acupuncture and acupressure, polarity therapy, and the use of magnet therapy.

Due to the complexity of this condition, it is important for one to work closely with their health care professional.  Unfortunately there is not an easy solution to FMS. It does take time to improve, and improvements are subject to each individual circumstance.

A good reference book on FMS would be Fibromyalgia and Chronic Myofacial Pain Syndrome, A Survival Manual by Devin Starlanyl, MD and Mary Ellen Copeland, M.S., M.A.

CARDIOVASCULAR NUTRITION:

With February being heart month, we are reminded again that the statistics for heart disease in America are staggering.  Over 60 million Americans suffer from this potential debilitating degenerative disease.  Research is showing that heart disease can begin as early as two years of age.  

It also causes over half of all deaths in the United States. Why is this happening?  Dr. William Lee Cowden, a cardiologist, states "The average American lifestyle, combining too little exercise, too much stress, and a diet of highly refined processed foods often deficient in essential nutrients, has rendered this nation's population especially vulnerable to the ravages of heart ailments."

Conventional medicine believes that the answer to fighting heart disease lies in treating the symptoms such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels with medications. surgeries are performed more often; and as a result, the medical cost for heart disease is at an estimated $56 billion annually.  Expensive

Although many of these methods are necessary, especially when the disease has become life threatening, we need to ask what can be done to prevent this degenerative disease? Currently many physicians are turning to preventive practices using changes in diet, stress reduction, weight control, and exercise as a means of reducing risk factors.

What exactly is heart disease and how does it begin?

It is often described as a disease of the heart's blood vessels. These vessels, the coronary arteries, supply the heart with vital oxygen and nutrients. When blood flow is restricted or blocked angina, severe damage or death can occur. Of course, we know this as a heart attack.

The condition most likely to cause this problem is hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis, causing over 550,000 deaths annually.  Many other conditions of the heart exist such as congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, angina, and various heart muscle disorders. This is where supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals can play an important role.

Before we discuss the role of nutrients, let's address some dietary guidelines that have shown to improve heart disease:

·  Reduce animal foods (red meat and diary), all refined sugars, tobacco and alcohol.

·         Use unprocessed natural oils (olive, canola, or flax). Avoid margarine and      hydrogenated fats.

·         Reduce overall fat intake (20% of overall daily caloric intake)

·         Eliminate processed food laden with preservatives and additives.

·         Eat at least 4-5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily.

·         Increase intake of fiber rich complex carbohydrates (brown rice, whole wheat)

·         Buy organic foods as much as possible.

·         Reduce overall salt intake.

These lifestyle changes and, of course, a good exercise program will do wonders for those suffering heart disease.

Let's look at the role of specific nutritional and herbal supplements that aid better heart functions.  Research has shown that these nutrients are vital and aid normal functioning of the heart.

Let's start with the B vitamins. These have been shown to reduce homocysteine levels, a substance that contributes to cholesterol oxidation and used as a marker for heart disease. 

B 6 is needed for conversion of homocysteine. Found in yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, salmon, and beans.

B 12 a deficiency is associated with higher homocysteine levels. Found in clams and oysters, and yeast.

Folic acid is known to reduce homocysteine levels. Found in leafy greens, wheat germ and oranges.

Vitamin E a fat soluble anti-oxidant. It inhibits platelet aggregation and helps repair blood vessel lining. The benefits of  Vitamin E have been know for a long time and it has been heavily researched.

 Vitamin C and flavonoid complexes are required for collagen production and is necessary to maintain blood vessel lining. It also is a powerful anti-oxidant.

Co Q 10 is well-known nutrient associated with the heart. It strengthens the heart muscle another anti-oxidant. and energizes the entire cardiovascular system. Shown to improve patients with congestive heart failure.  Also

Inositol hexaniacinate has been helpful with reducing cholesterol levels. This is flush free niacin and can be taken in larger doses than naicin.

Many minerals are essential for proper heart functioning.

The four main minerals calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium are critically important.  When these are imbalance many conductive disturbances are experienced such as angina and arrythmias.

 Calcium works with sodium to help aid the contraction part of the heart pump. Thought to help reduce cholesterol and to inhibit platelet aggregation. Found in leafy greens, beans, tofu and low fat dairy products.

Magnesium helps to open arteries and relax the heart pumping of blood. It helps alleviate arrythmias, prevent calcification of the vessels, lowers overall cholesterol, raise HDL cholesterol, and inhibit platelet aggregation. Found in nuts and seed, leafy greens, whole grain breads and fish.

·         Potassium has been shown to rebalance the higher sodium levels and aid in the reduction of high blood pressure. This is found in many fresh fruits (bananas) and many vegetables.

·         Selenium is another anti-oxidant and is important for the maintenance of the heartbeat as well as to reduce platelet aggregation.

·         Chromium role helps to lower cholesterol and triglycerides and raise the HDL, the good cholesterol.

Some other nutrients that have shown to improve heart function and prevent further damage are:

·         Taurine is an amino acid (protein) that aids in cholesterol management and with platelet aggregation also helps regulate the beat.

·         Carnitine another amino acid improves oxygen utilization and aids with fat metabolism. Helpful with almost all heart conditions.

·        Max EPA (omega 3 fatty acids) from fish oil aid with reducing inflammation of artery walls and inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Many plants have beneficial properties that help prevent or reduce the symptoms of heart disease.  Let's begin with:

·         Garlic has many cardiotonic properties from reducing overall cholesterol, inhibits platelet aggregation, and lowers blood pressure.

·        Ginger is anti-oxidant, has cholesterol lowering activity, and lowers blood pressure.

·         Cayenne Pepper is considered a vasodilator (open the blood vessels), therefore, reducing blood pressure, high flavonoid content helps vessel wall integrity, and reduces plaquing on arteries.

·         Gingko Biloba helps regulate blood vessel tone, is a vasodilator and inhibits platelet aggregation.

·         Bilberry works with the integrity of the blood vessel lining.

·         Hawthorn Berry improves blood supply to the heart, works as a mild ace inhibitor, increases the force of contraction, strengthens heart muscle, lowers blood pressure and helps those with angina.

·         Guggulipid is a gum extract that helps to lower cholesterol and triglycerides and increases HDL cholesterol.

·         Coleus Forskohlii is another plant for high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and angina. It works as a vasodilator and for platelet aggregation inhibition.

It is quite obvious that much can be done to prevent heart disease. It is important to become better educated and to make lifestyle changes that will reverse or help to eliminate cardiovascular disease.

This article just let's you know some of the research that is going on to help prevent heart disease. There are many good books that will give you in depth information concerning these supplements mentioned. Dr. Dean Ornish's "Program for Reversing Heart Disease" and "Reversing Heart Disease" by Dr. Julian Whitaker are good places to start. Remember that it is easier to prevent a disease than it is to treat it once it has become chronic.

BOTANICAL APPROACHES TO THE TREATMENT OF DIABETES

(Article by David Hawkins, MH, CNC)

Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) is a common disorder affecting approximately 4% of the population. This equates to over 30 million worldwide. Diabetes and blood sugar imbalances are associated with western, industrialized cultures that consume highly refined and processed fiber depleted diets.

This article will not deal with the dietary imbalances or the nutrient support that has been shown effective but will center on specific botanicals and how they work to improve blood sugar balance or work to prevent many of the negative breakdown conditions of the body such as retinopathy, neuropathy, ulcers, heart and circulatory disorders.

A brief description of diabetes is that it is a chronic degenerative disease caused by lack of or resistance to the hormone insulin, which is essential for blood sugar metabolism. Normally blood sugar rises after a meal as glucose is absorbed into the system. This causes the pancreas to produce enough insulin to return the blood sugar to normal. Diabetics have problems with either production of insulin or they have a resistance to insulin uptake thus having an excess of glucose in the blood which has a negative effect on the body overall. There are two types of diabetics: Type 1 (insulin dependent) or Type 2 (non-insulin dependent).

According to herbalist David Hoffman, past president of the American Herbalist Guild, there are many plants that have proven hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering effects) properties that can contribute to a comprehensive management program. He further states that there are no plants that can replace insulin directly.

Let’s take a look at some of the more prominent plants:

Gymnema Sylvestris – A native plant of India with over 2,000 years of use for the treatment of diabetes. It has been studied since the 1930s and has been proven to reduce the amount of sugar the intestinal tract can absorb. In India it is called gurmar that means sugar eliminator. The plant has the ability of being able to block the taste of sugar. The water-soluble extract of the leaf has shown to decrease insulin requirements by one half with an overall decrease in average blood sugar.

Cholesterol and triglycerides were lowered significantly.

· Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) has long been used to treat diabetes. The flavanoid compounds known as anthocyanosides have been shown to lower plasma glucose levels by 26% in animal studies, and in the same study it also lowered triglyceride levels by 39%. The hypoglycemic effects are very interesting but more important are its effects on stabilizing collagen. Thus, it is useful in the prevention of the retinopathy and capillary fragility problems associated with diabetes. Anthocyanicides are potent antioxidants and have a way of improving circulation.

· Fenugreek Seed (Trigonella foenum graecum) contains an alkaloid compound trigonelline which is thought responsible for its action relating to lowering of blood sugar. It has also been effective in lowering overall cholesterol and triglycerides. The ground seed is used daily.

· Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) found in China, India, South America and Africa has been used medicinally. Research has confirmed the ability of fresh juice from the unripe fruit to lower blood sugar directly. Charantin one of the active properties has been compared to the allopathic drug tolbutamide as an effective oral hypoglycemic agent. A variety of liquid extracts have shown to lower blood sugar and improve glucose tolerance in human and animal studies.

Other plants that have shown positive effects in diabetes treatment but are not as well recognized are:

· Goat’s Rue (Galega officinalis) has shown to have hypoglycemic activity by enhancing glucose utilization. It was researched in the early 1920s as a possible therapy that led to the development of antidiabetic biguanide drugs. These drugs had numerous side effects which the whole plant did not produce. A study in 1961 found that galega actually regenerated pancreatic cells.

· Gingko biloba enhances peripheral circulation and is being used to prevent vascular breakdown in diabetics. Supplementing with the standardized extract has shown to be effective in neuropathy, retinopathy and collagen stabilization.

The plants listed above are the most researched, but there are literally hundreds of other plants with hypo and hyperglycemic activity. Another compound from plants, insulin is found in dandelion root, burdock root, licorice root and Echinacea. This compound is reported to be of benefit in lowering hyperglycemia. Inula is a sugar molecule that does not require insulin to be absorbed.

Two very popular vegetables have been shown to a have blood glucose lowering effects. They are onion and garlic with its sulfur compounds having the most effects. Active allicin is shown to compete with insulin through binding sites within the liver. The drawback is the quantity that needs to be eaten daily to have a therapeutic effect.

Plant fiber has also been studied in the control of blood sugar. Guar gum, pectins and glucomannan (a gel fiber), and psyllium have significantly improved glycemic control, insulin requirements and HDL cholesterol.

As you can see, there are numerous plants that can be used in conjunction with conventional diabetic maintenance programs. Of course, there are many lifestyle adjustments that have been showing some promise. I will address some of these dietary changes in a later article.

Article by herbalist Dave Hawkins, MH, CNC

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two classifications used for describing behavioral problems associated with children and some adults. Focus on ADD / ADHD has been on the increase in our country.

The most popular method of treatment is the use of drugs such as Ritalin and Dexedrine;numerous side effects. Many parents are concerned about using these drugs and have voiced their concerns. two powerful drugs with

Are there any natural alternatives to using drug therapy in the treatment of this condition?

Let's first discuss ADD and ADHD and the theories that support its causes. According to Taber's medical dictionary, ADD and ADHD are described as "increased or excessive activity."

It further states "this condition is not easily defined because the claim that a child is hyperactive may be based on a low tolerance level of the person caring for the child."

Let's look at some of the statistics surrounding Attention Deficit Disorder and some of the symptoms. It is estimated that approximately 3% of the US childhood population and 10% of the total US population have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD.

Many experts believe that, in reality, it is more like 20% of our population.

ADHD is nearly ten times more common in boys than girls and about 50% of cases appear before age four.

Symptoms include for ADHD;

Excessively fidgets or squirms

Easily distracted

Difficulty awaiting turn in games

Blurts out answers to questions

Difficulty following instructions

Difficulty sustaining attention

Shifts from one activity to another

Difficulty playing quietly

Often loses things

Often engages in dangerous activities

This list is taken directly from the American Psychiatric Association's latest "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder." To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, a child mustexhibit eight of the symptoms for a period longer than six months, and the symptoms must have appeared before age seven.

You don't have to be hyperactive to have Attention Deficit Disorder. In fact, up to 30% of children with ADD are not hyperactive at all: but they still have trouble focusing. Mary Ann Block, DO, author of No More Ritalin, has spent many years researching and

treating ADD/ADHD with natural therapies at her clinic in the Dallas area.

She said three areas need to be addressed. Based on her observations, the most common underlying cause of behavioral disorders is hypoglycemia, which means low-blood sugar. The second most common cause in Attention Deficit Disorder cases is food allergies, and third is nutrient deficiency. A possible fourth cause is heavy metal toxicity.

Low blood sugar causes the adrenal glands to respond by releasing adrenaline as an attempt to normalize the blood sugar. This, in turn, can cause many of the symptoms described along with headaches, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and sugar cravings. This can happen when children simply do not eat enough food.

Three meals a day are recommended with the addition of wholesome snacks between meals. Refined sugar foods as well as foods containing aspartame (Nutrasweet) need to be avoided.

Also, eliminate soft drinks and overly concentrated fruit juices. Foods high in protein compared to carbohydrates will help to normalize blood sugar. Complex carbohydrates are preferred in the form of whole grain cereals and breads, fresh fruits and vegetables.

The main allergens that seem to affect children are artificial colorings, especially red food dye, flavorings and chemical additives. Dr. Lendon Smith and Dr. Feingold both mention that by eliminating these substances, benefits can be seen within a short period of time. This means that you will have to start reading labels.

You will be shocked to see how many products contain these chemicals.

Look out for over-the-counter multi-vitamins, toothpaste and soft drinks.

At the top of Dr. Smith's list of sensitive foods are dairy products. He estimates that 50-70% of the childhood population is allergic to milk products. Try eliminating milk from the diet and see what happens. There are many milk alternatives such as soymilk or rice milk.

Also wheat and corn can be potential allergens.

Nutritional deficiency plays a big role in correcting some of the potential metabolic imbalances that can cause ADD/ADHD. Such as:

· B Complex Vitamins - Needed for proper metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins and to assist with nerve function

· Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta Carotene - Work as anti-oxidants

· Calcium/Magnesium - Works to calm the nervous system

· Acidophilus - Aids digestion and absorption of nutrients

There are some specialty supplements that recently have been showing promise when dealing with ADD/ADHD:

· Evening Primrose Oil or Flax Oil - Research is showing that an essential fatty acid deficiency is present in a large percentage of those diagnosed.

· Pycnogenol - An antioxidant derived from the maritime pine.

Dr. Richard A. Passwater, one of our nation's most respected biochemists, has documented the research done on Proanthocyanidin's effectiveness in Europe.

Proanthocyanidins gives relief from as many as 60 different degenerative health challenges, including ADD/ADHD.

· Phosphatidylcholine/Phosphatidylserine - Two nutrients from soy that affect brain cells and nerve function and help to improve cognitive abilities.

· DMAE - Known to increase intelligence, memory, and learning abilities. It works in conjunction with other neurotransmitters.

· GABA-Gaba Amino Butyric Acid -- A neurotransmitter that calms nerve transmission. Available in the supplement form.

There are many formulas in chewable form that will combine these nutrients. Many also will contain some of the herbal calmatives such as valerian root, scullcap, lemon balm, gota kola, chamomile, and passionflower.

The fourth concern is heavy metal toxicity. Lead, copper, cadmium and mercury have been shown to interfere with neurological functions of the nervous system and inhibit proper mineral balance.

One way to find out if this is a problem is with the use of hair analysis, which tests for thirty-six minerals and six toxic minerals and their relationship to each other.

Any discussion about ADD/ADHD needs to deal with the conventional treatment methodsRitalin is one of the main drugs used to control ADD/ADHD. and the results of this therapy.

Far too many psychiatrists believe that this drug is the answer to many behavioral problems.

It is understandable that in a school setting children with this problem need some control.

I find it disheartening the pressure that parents are subjected to when their child is given the diagnosis that, by the way, follows the child throughout their school years.

Granted there are some children where nothing else works, but one estimate stated that more than 50% of the children on Ritalin were not truly ADD/ADHD.

You can check out more information about Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) online at the ADHD Online Newsletter at www.nlci.com/nutrition

.