The Alternative Medicine Cabinet: Aloe Vera for Burns
By ANAHAD O'CONNOR
Anahad O’Connor, who writes the “Really?” column for The New York Times, explores the claims and the science behind various alternative remedies that you may want to consider for your family medicine cabinet.
The Remedy: Aloe Vera
The Claim: It heals burns.
The Science: Aloe vera gel may very well be the crown jewel of skin-soothing treatments for damaged skin. And for good reason: Numerous studies have provided evidence that it can heal the minor burns and scrapes that a harsh world can inflict on sensitive skin. Scientists suspect that has to do with the gel’s anti-inflammatory properties.
One randomized study by a team of surgeons in 2009, for example, looked at 30 patients with second-degree burns and found that aloe cream completely healed minor wounds in less than 16 days, compared to 19 days for silver sulfadiazine, a common antibacterial cream used to treat burns.
To be sure, not every study has had conclusive findings. Another one published in the journal Burns in 2007 looked at data from four different studies that included a total of 371 patients with various types of wounds and burns. The authors stopped short of recommending aloe vera gel for all burn and wound healing. “However,” the authors stated, “cumulative evidence tends to support that aloe vera might be an effective intervention used in burn wound healing for first to second degree burns.”
In other words, experts say, for severe wounds that go beyond superficial damage to the skin, medical attention is needed. But for sunburns, blisters and small burns that cause minor pain, redness or damage that is limited to the top layers of skin, aloe vera could make a difference.
“There are factors in aloe that help the cells regenerate and heal faster,” said Dr. Lawrence D. Rosen, a pediatrician at the Whole Child Center in Oradell, N.J., who recommends it to his patients. Dr. Rosen suggests keeping an aloe plant in your home. Or simply purchase a leaf or two from the market and break it open when needed, he said.
The Risks: According to the National Institutes of Health, when used topically, aloe vera gel has no significant side effects.
MY THOUGHTS
this aloe vera (sabila to us) is getting to be my real favorite. it helps hair grow, it cures pimples and rashes. and then it can treat burns. i wonder if this plant would grow in a condo unit where's there's no sunlight...
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Monday, January 24, 2011
TOMATOES FOR VASCULAR DISEASE
Eat tomatoes to stave off vascular disease--study
by Neharika Sabharwal - January 24, 2011
Here's a new reason to add tomatoes to your grocery list. This fruit-cum-vegetable that tickles the taste buds and offers many health benefits is now being considered as a natural remedy to stave off vascular [pertaining to blood vessels] disease.
People who have high levels of lipids, such as fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the bloodstream are at an increased risk of the life threatening condition dyslipidemia, which can cause stroke and heart attacks due to blocked arteries.
According to Japanese researchers, a nutrient in tomato contains anti-dyslipidemic properties that have the potential to reduce the build up of lipids and tackle the onset of vascular [pertaining to blood vessels] disease.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Teruo Kawada from Kyoto University stated, "Dyslipidemia itself usually causes no symptoms. However, it can lead to symptomatic vascular diseases, such as arteriosclerosis and cirrhosis. In order to prevent these diseases it is important to prevent an increased build up of lipids."
Anti-dyslipidemia properties of tomatoes analyzed
Tomatoes contain many compounds that offer multiple health benefits. For the current study, the researchers focused on 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid.
An analysis of the compound extracted from tomatoes revealed it has anti- dyslipidemia properties that can help fight vascular diseases.
The tests found 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid has the potential to assist in the oxidation and breakdown of fatty acids, which can in turn regulate lipid metabolism in the liver.
Kawada stated, "Finding a compound which helps the prevention of obesity-related chronic diseases in foodstuffs is a great advantage to tackling these diseases.
"It means that the tomato allows people to easily manage the onset of dyslipidemia through their daily diet.
The study has been published in the journal 'Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.'
Other health benefits of tomatoes
Tomatoes, technically a fruit but classified as a vegetable is best known as a rich source of lycopene.
Lycopene refers to the red pigment present in tomatoes that gives them the red color. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects against certain types of cancers, improves memory and betters urinary tract health.
In addition, tomatoes are also low in calories, sugar, sodium, fat and are an excellent source of many essential vitamins and minerals.
Nicotinic acid in tomatoes helps in cases of congestion of liver as well as dissolving gallstones. Tomatoes are a natural antiseptic that helps fight various infections.
It is a good blood purifier and daily consumption of tomatoes helps in improving skin texture and color.
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin K and important to bone health. The fiber in tomatoes aids healthy digestion and helps to improve constipation. It is also known to aid weight loss.
Tomatoes contain lutein which may help prevent macular degeneration and to improve vision.
Research indicates, tomato has anti-clotting properties much like aspirin and reduces the risk of blood clots and stroke.
MY THOUGHTS
tomatoes here i come. i really like them, anyway.
by Neharika Sabharwal - January 24, 2011
Here's a new reason to add tomatoes to your grocery list. This fruit-cum-vegetable that tickles the taste buds and offers many health benefits is now being considered as a natural remedy to stave off vascular [pertaining to blood vessels] disease.
People who have high levels of lipids, such as fat, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the bloodstream are at an increased risk of the life threatening condition dyslipidemia, which can cause stroke and heart attacks due to blocked arteries.
According to Japanese researchers, a nutrient in tomato contains anti-dyslipidemic properties that have the potential to reduce the build up of lipids and tackle the onset of vascular [pertaining to blood vessels] disease.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Teruo Kawada from Kyoto University stated, "Dyslipidemia itself usually causes no symptoms. However, it can lead to symptomatic vascular diseases, such as arteriosclerosis and cirrhosis. In order to prevent these diseases it is important to prevent an increased build up of lipids."
Anti-dyslipidemia properties of tomatoes analyzed
Tomatoes contain many compounds that offer multiple health benefits. For the current study, the researchers focused on 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid.
An analysis of the compound extracted from tomatoes revealed it has anti- dyslipidemia properties that can help fight vascular diseases.
The tests found 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid has the potential to assist in the oxidation and breakdown of fatty acids, which can in turn regulate lipid metabolism in the liver.
Kawada stated, "Finding a compound which helps the prevention of obesity-related chronic diseases in foodstuffs is a great advantage to tackling these diseases.
"It means that the tomato allows people to easily manage the onset of dyslipidemia through their daily diet.
The study has been published in the journal 'Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.'
Other health benefits of tomatoes
Tomatoes, technically a fruit but classified as a vegetable is best known as a rich source of lycopene.
Lycopene refers to the red pigment present in tomatoes that gives them the red color. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects against certain types of cancers, improves memory and betters urinary tract health.
In addition, tomatoes are also low in calories, sugar, sodium, fat and are an excellent source of many essential vitamins and minerals.
Nicotinic acid in tomatoes helps in cases of congestion of liver as well as dissolving gallstones. Tomatoes are a natural antiseptic that helps fight various infections.
It is a good blood purifier and daily consumption of tomatoes helps in improving skin texture and color.
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin K and important to bone health. The fiber in tomatoes aids healthy digestion and helps to improve constipation. It is also known to aid weight loss.
Tomatoes contain lutein which may help prevent macular degeneration and to improve vision.
Research indicates, tomato has anti-clotting properties much like aspirin and reduces the risk of blood clots and stroke.
MY THOUGHTS
tomatoes here i come. i really like them, anyway.
Friday, January 21, 2011
How to Cure a Sore Throat
How to Cure a Sore Throat
By Frank de Jong, eHow Member
Need a cure for that sore throat? Try this natural remedy!
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
1 glass of hot warm water.
1 teaspoon of cayenne powder
A couple pinches of salt
1
Warm up some water in your microwave. Be careful! Make it hot, but not so hot that it's going to burn your mouth.
2
Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of Cayenne powder to your cup of water.
3
Gargle the mixture for about 30 seconds at a time. There's no need to swallow the mixture.
Tips & Warnings
It's best to gargle the mixture on and off over a period of about an hour.
Be careful not to burn your mouth with water that's too hot!
MY THOUGHTS
that's gonna burn for sure. most groceries have cayenne powder.if you can't find any, ginger will do. how about vinegar? i remember gargling vinegar for my inflamed tonsils.it worked.
By Frank de Jong, eHow Member
Need a cure for that sore throat? Try this natural remedy!
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
1 glass of hot warm water.
1 teaspoon of cayenne powder
A couple pinches of salt
1
Warm up some water in your microwave. Be careful! Make it hot, but not so hot that it's going to burn your mouth.
2
Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of Cayenne powder to your cup of water.
3
Gargle the mixture for about 30 seconds at a time. There's no need to swallow the mixture.
Tips & Warnings
It's best to gargle the mixture on and off over a period of about an hour.
Be careful not to burn your mouth with water that's too hot!
MY THOUGHTS
that's gonna burn for sure. most groceries have cayenne powder.if you can't find any, ginger will do. how about vinegar? i remember gargling vinegar for my inflamed tonsils.it worked.
Alternative treatments for Arthritis
Alternative Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
By the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Published January 21, 2011
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, alternative healing methods can be helpful additions to medications and a physician’s care. Find out which therapies have been scientifically proven as safe and effective for pain, swelling and stiffness...
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease – a condition in which the immune system, which normally protects the body by fighting infections and diseases, instead targets the body.
RA is different from other types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, a wear-and-tear condition that commonly occurs as people age. In RA, the immune system attacks the tissues that line the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness and affecting their ability to work properly.
Over time, RA may damage bone and cartilage within joints, weaken muscles and tendons, and lead to joint destruction.
RA occurs more frequently in women than in men and often begins in middle age. It can affect any joint in the body, most often the wrist and fingers. And it usually occurs in a symmetrical pattern – for example, if one hand is affected, usually the other will be, too.
Some people with RA may have other health issues, such as anemia, dry eyes or mouth, and heart or lung problems. As an autoimmune disease, RA may be accompanied by occasional fevers and an overall feeling of fatigue or weakness.
Treatment for RA combines a variety of approaches and is aimed at relieving pain, reducing joint swelling, slowing or preventing joint damage, and improving physical function and well-being. Conventional medicines include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological response modifiers and corticosteroids.
Other treatments include physical therapy, modified exercise programs, and devices that ease physical stress on the joints (such as splints). People with RA are also encouraged to make lifestyle changes such as balancing activity with rest, eating a healthy diet and reducing emotional stress.
Despite the use of conventional treatments, however, people with RA may continue to have symptoms or difficulties with side effects. Many patients add alternative remedies to control pain and inflammation, improve physical function, or cope with the disease or side effects of treatment.
Here’s a look at the some of the top alternative remedies, and the evidence suggesting they may work:
Mind-Body Therapies
Mind-body methods – such as meditation, relaxation and tai chi – are among the most commonly used alternative treatments in the United States. They’ve been studied for a variety of pain-related conditions, and results from clinical trials suggest they may be beneficial additions to RA treatment regimens.
Psychological therapies incorporating mind-body techniques such as relaxation, imagery, and biofeedback may help improve physical and psychological symptoms associated with RA. Research reviews suggest that these therapies – when added to conventional medical treatments – could have beneficial effects on pain, physical function, psychological state and ability to cope. They may be especially helpful for people who’ve had RA for a shorter duration.
A study funded by the federal government found that a type of meditation called mindfulness-based stress reduction had positive effects on the psychological aspects of RA (such as depression and coping ability), although it didn’t relieve symptoms.
A few small studies have been conducted on tai chi for RA. In general, tai chi hasn’t been shown to be effective for joint pain, swelling and tenderness, but it may improve mood, quality of life, and overall physical function. Some people have reported soreness when first learning tai chi, but most studies have found that it’s relatively safe for people with RA.
Dietary Supplements
Although no herbal or nutritional supplement has shown clear treatment benefits, there is preliminary evidence for a few – particularly fish oil and gamma-linolenic acid.
Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids – substances the body needs to perform a number of important functions. The body can also use omega-3s to make substances that reduce inflammation.
Interest in the use of fish oil for RA stems from observations that groups of people who consumed large amounts of foods rich in omega-3s have lower rates of inflammatory diseases. Types of fish high in omega-3s include herring, mackerel, salmon and tuna. Supplements are available as capsules or bottled oils.
Fish oil supplements may be useful in relieving tender joints and morning stiffness, and studies have also found that fish oil could reduce the need for NSAIDs and other conventional RA medicines.
While some species of fish can contain high levels of mercury, pesticides or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), filtered fish oil supplements don’t appear to contain these substances. In high doses, fish oil may interact with certain medicines, including blood thinners and drugs used for high blood pressure. Products made from fish liver oil (such as cod liver oil) can contain dangerously high amounts of vitamins A and D.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in the oils of some plant seeds, including evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), borage (Borago officinalis) and black currant (Ribes nigrum). In the body, GLA can be converted into substances that reduce inflammation.
Some well-designed studies suggest that GLA may relieve symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness and tenderness; in some cases, it led to a decreased need for NSAID medication.
GLA appears to be safe for most adults. However, some borage oil preparations contain chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can harm the liver.
Research on other supplements for RA symptoms is still in the early stages. For example:
In animal studies, extracts of the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa) containing the chemical curcumin were found to protect joints from inflammation and damage. There may be a potential role for curcumin in preventing or slowing RA disease, but studies in people are needed to confirm this.
Varieties of boswellia (Boswellia serrata, Boswellia carterii, also known as frankincense) produce a resin that has shown anti-inflammatory and immune-system effects in laboratory and animal studies. But no rigorous clinical trials in people with RA have been conducted.
Laboratory studies have identified anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger (Zingiber officinale), but additional research is needed to determine if the herb has an effect on RA.
There’s also evidence that substances found in green tea might be useful in treating both RA and osteoarthritis.
Other Alternative Treatments for RA
These therapies may also be effective in easing RA symptoms:
Acupuncture has been used and studied for a variety of pain conditions, but very little research has focused on RA. Larger and more rigorous studies are needed.
Balneotherapy is the technique of bathing in heated tap or mineral water for health purposes. Preliminary research on using this therapy for RA has been conducted in areas where it’s most popular, such as Europe and Israel’s Dead Sea region. Although some benefits have been reported, there’s not enough reliable evidence to draw conclusions.
Some people with RA may try following special diets – such as vegetarian and vegan diets, the Mediterranean diet, and periods of fasting – to control symptoms. While a few studies suggest that decreasing or eliminating consumption of meat, dairy, or foods likely to cause allergies may be helpful in some cases, others don’t. One drawback is that special diets may be difficult for people to follow over time. In addition, some diets could put people at risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Do’s and Don’ts
If you have RA and are thinking about using alternative therapies, keep the following points in mind:
Don’t replace proven conventional treatments for RA with alternative treatments.
Be aware that some alternative therapies – particularly dietary supplements – may interact with conventional medical treatments. Also, consider the possibility that what’s on the label may not be what’s in the bottle. Some tests of dietary supplements have found that the contents didn’t match the dose on the label, and some herbal supplements have been found to be contaminated.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult their health care provider before using any alternative therapy.
Tell all your health care providers about any alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
Excerpted from “Rheumatoid Arthritis and CAM” by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health.
MY THOUGHTS
the major reason i'm trying to find time to exercise is not to lose weight. i need to lose weight. but that's only secondary to my fear of rheumatism and other ailments that comes with aging. we can't stop the clock but we can do something to lessen the negative results.
By the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Published January 21, 2011
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, alternative healing methods can be helpful additions to medications and a physician’s care. Find out which therapies have been scientifically proven as safe and effective for pain, swelling and stiffness...
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease – a condition in which the immune system, which normally protects the body by fighting infections and diseases, instead targets the body.
RA is different from other types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, a wear-and-tear condition that commonly occurs as people age. In RA, the immune system attacks the tissues that line the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness and affecting their ability to work properly.
Over time, RA may damage bone and cartilage within joints, weaken muscles and tendons, and lead to joint destruction.
RA occurs more frequently in women than in men and often begins in middle age. It can affect any joint in the body, most often the wrist and fingers. And it usually occurs in a symmetrical pattern – for example, if one hand is affected, usually the other will be, too.
Some people with RA may have other health issues, such as anemia, dry eyes or mouth, and heart or lung problems. As an autoimmune disease, RA may be accompanied by occasional fevers and an overall feeling of fatigue or weakness.
Treatment for RA combines a variety of approaches and is aimed at relieving pain, reducing joint swelling, slowing or preventing joint damage, and improving physical function and well-being. Conventional medicines include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological response modifiers and corticosteroids.
Other treatments include physical therapy, modified exercise programs, and devices that ease physical stress on the joints (such as splints). People with RA are also encouraged to make lifestyle changes such as balancing activity with rest, eating a healthy diet and reducing emotional stress.
Despite the use of conventional treatments, however, people with RA may continue to have symptoms or difficulties with side effects. Many patients add alternative remedies to control pain and inflammation, improve physical function, or cope with the disease or side effects of treatment.
Here’s a look at the some of the top alternative remedies, and the evidence suggesting they may work:
Mind-Body Therapies
Mind-body methods – such as meditation, relaxation and tai chi – are among the most commonly used alternative treatments in the United States. They’ve been studied for a variety of pain-related conditions, and results from clinical trials suggest they may be beneficial additions to RA treatment regimens.
Psychological therapies incorporating mind-body techniques such as relaxation, imagery, and biofeedback may help improve physical and psychological symptoms associated with RA. Research reviews suggest that these therapies – when added to conventional medical treatments – could have beneficial effects on pain, physical function, psychological state and ability to cope. They may be especially helpful for people who’ve had RA for a shorter duration.
A study funded by the federal government found that a type of meditation called mindfulness-based stress reduction had positive effects on the psychological aspects of RA (such as depression and coping ability), although it didn’t relieve symptoms.
A few small studies have been conducted on tai chi for RA. In general, tai chi hasn’t been shown to be effective for joint pain, swelling and tenderness, but it may improve mood, quality of life, and overall physical function. Some people have reported soreness when first learning tai chi, but most studies have found that it’s relatively safe for people with RA.
Dietary Supplements
Although no herbal or nutritional supplement has shown clear treatment benefits, there is preliminary evidence for a few – particularly fish oil and gamma-linolenic acid.
Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids – substances the body needs to perform a number of important functions. The body can also use omega-3s to make substances that reduce inflammation.
Interest in the use of fish oil for RA stems from observations that groups of people who consumed large amounts of foods rich in omega-3s have lower rates of inflammatory diseases. Types of fish high in omega-3s include herring, mackerel, salmon and tuna. Supplements are available as capsules or bottled oils.
Fish oil supplements may be useful in relieving tender joints and morning stiffness, and studies have also found that fish oil could reduce the need for NSAIDs and other conventional RA medicines.
While some species of fish can contain high levels of mercury, pesticides or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), filtered fish oil supplements don’t appear to contain these substances. In high doses, fish oil may interact with certain medicines, including blood thinners and drugs used for high blood pressure. Products made from fish liver oil (such as cod liver oil) can contain dangerously high amounts of vitamins A and D.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in the oils of some plant seeds, including evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), borage (Borago officinalis) and black currant (Ribes nigrum). In the body, GLA can be converted into substances that reduce inflammation.
Some well-designed studies suggest that GLA may relieve symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness and tenderness; in some cases, it led to a decreased need for NSAID medication.
GLA appears to be safe for most adults. However, some borage oil preparations contain chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can harm the liver.
Research on other supplements for RA symptoms is still in the early stages. For example:
In animal studies, extracts of the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa) containing the chemical curcumin were found to protect joints from inflammation and damage. There may be a potential role for curcumin in preventing or slowing RA disease, but studies in people are needed to confirm this.
Varieties of boswellia (Boswellia serrata, Boswellia carterii, also known as frankincense) produce a resin that has shown anti-inflammatory and immune-system effects in laboratory and animal studies. But no rigorous clinical trials in people with RA have been conducted.
Laboratory studies have identified anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger (Zingiber officinale), but additional research is needed to determine if the herb has an effect on RA.
There’s also evidence that substances found in green tea might be useful in treating both RA and osteoarthritis.
Other Alternative Treatments for RA
These therapies may also be effective in easing RA symptoms:
Acupuncture has been used and studied for a variety of pain conditions, but very little research has focused on RA. Larger and more rigorous studies are needed.
Balneotherapy is the technique of bathing in heated tap or mineral water for health purposes. Preliminary research on using this therapy for RA has been conducted in areas where it’s most popular, such as Europe and Israel’s Dead Sea region. Although some benefits have been reported, there’s not enough reliable evidence to draw conclusions.
Some people with RA may try following special diets – such as vegetarian and vegan diets, the Mediterranean diet, and periods of fasting – to control symptoms. While a few studies suggest that decreasing or eliminating consumption of meat, dairy, or foods likely to cause allergies may be helpful in some cases, others don’t. One drawback is that special diets may be difficult for people to follow over time. In addition, some diets could put people at risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Do’s and Don’ts
If you have RA and are thinking about using alternative therapies, keep the following points in mind:
Don’t replace proven conventional treatments for RA with alternative treatments.
Be aware that some alternative therapies – particularly dietary supplements – may interact with conventional medical treatments. Also, consider the possibility that what’s on the label may not be what’s in the bottle. Some tests of dietary supplements have found that the contents didn’t match the dose on the label, and some herbal supplements have been found to be contaminated.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult their health care provider before using any alternative therapy.
Tell all your health care providers about any alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
Excerpted from “Rheumatoid Arthritis and CAM” by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health.
MY THOUGHTS
the major reason i'm trying to find time to exercise is not to lose weight. i need to lose weight. but that's only secondary to my fear of rheumatism and other ailments that comes with aging. we can't stop the clock but we can do something to lessen the negative results.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Potato: Natural Remedy for Inflammation, etc.
How To Make a Potato Poultice
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Created: May 30, 2005
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
A potato poultice is a warm compress made with grated potato that is used to relieve congestion and inflammation and heal skin. It's used traditionally for conditions such as arthritis and eczema.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 20 minutes
Here's How:
1. Chop two unpeeled potatoes into 1 inch cubes.
2. Boil the potato cubes. Mash them.
3. Spread the potatoes onto a thick gauze or cheesecloth. Add another sheet of gauze or cheesecloth or fold it over.
4. Test the temperature with your hand, making sure it's not too hot.
5. Apply the poultice to the affected area. Wrap it with a dry cloth or towel and hold it in place with string or bandage.
6. Remove the poultice once it is cold.
What You Need:
* Potatoes
* 2 pieces of cheesecloth or gauze
* Towel
* String or bandages
MY THOUGHTS
sometimes i sit in front of the computer for hours looking for articles and i wonder if i'm wasting my time. and then i find materials like this. potatoes as a natural remedy. that's something new! there's always something new. that's like a song,isn't it? "i guess i wanted something new in my life. a new key, a new door..." a potato, perhaps?
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Created: May 30, 2005
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
A potato poultice is a warm compress made with grated potato that is used to relieve congestion and inflammation and heal skin. It's used traditionally for conditions such as arthritis and eczema.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 20 minutes
Here's How:
1. Chop two unpeeled potatoes into 1 inch cubes.
2. Boil the potato cubes. Mash them.
3. Spread the potatoes onto a thick gauze or cheesecloth. Add another sheet of gauze or cheesecloth or fold it over.
4. Test the temperature with your hand, making sure it's not too hot.
5. Apply the poultice to the affected area. Wrap it with a dry cloth or towel and hold it in place with string or bandage.
6. Remove the poultice once it is cold.
What You Need:
* Potatoes
* 2 pieces of cheesecloth or gauze
* Towel
* String or bandages
MY THOUGHTS
sometimes i sit in front of the computer for hours looking for articles and i wonder if i'm wasting my time. and then i find materials like this. potatoes as a natural remedy. that's something new! there's always something new. that's like a song,isn't it? "i guess i wanted something new in my life. a new key, a new door..." a potato, perhaps?
Monday, January 17, 2011
Natural Mood-Boosters
5 Natural Mood-Boosters
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Updated December 29, 2006
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
1) Go for a walk
Not only is walking a great mood-booster, but walking can burn calories and reduce body fat.
A study by researchers at Dalhousie University found that 30-minute walks were effective at reducing tension, anxiety, and mood disturbances and increasing energy and vigor.
What you can do:
* A pedometer can help you get motivated, make walking fun, and help you stick to healthy new exercise habits. It keeps track of the number of steps taken, total distance traveled, and number of calories burned.
And if you hate the idea of having a gadget strapped to your ankle, not to worry. Omron makes a pedometer that can be slipped into your pocket, purse, or clipped to your belt.
* Going for outdoor walks has an added benefit: the natural light stimulates the brain to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood.
2) Go to bed early
If late nights are a regular way of life for you, it may be affecting your mood and outlook on life. Getting less sleep than you need can increase anxiety, tension, and sadness.
Studies have shown that lack of sleep reduces emotional and physical well-being, reduces optimism, and even contributes to the onset and worsening of physical pain.
What you can do:
* Try to go to bed 30 minutes earlier every night.
* Make your bed a restful haven. Splurge on good pillows. Also consider treating yourself to soft sheets with at least a 300 thread count.
Sheets made of pima, supima, or better yet, egyptian cotton, which tend to be softer than muslin or percale.
3) De-clutter your space
It's almost impossible to relax and feel great when everywhere you look, there are bills, papers, and appointment cards piled on workspaces and spilling out of drawers. Organizing your home and office is a great way to start off the new year. Having everything in order can help calm anxiety, and some people find the actual cleaning part therapeutic.
What you can do:
* Each weekend, tackle a different area of your home or office.
* Turn to home stores for help. There are many types of organizers available to store your things in a neat, easily accessible way.
* If you don't have one already, consider getting an agenda or notebook to help you organize your thoughts.
* You can also make to-do lists (rather than memorize them) – it can really help to calm anxiety and checking off each task as you accomplish it provides a sense of fulfillment.
4) Listen to music
Music has a powerful effect on mood. It activates areas of the brain involved in the feeling of happiness.
Research has shown that it can lower blood pressure, heart rate, stress hormone levels, and may even improve cognitive abilities.
What you can do:
* Listen to music while traveling to work, during your lunch, or before you go to bed.
* What is most important is that you listen to music that you enjoy.
* Try music especially designed for relaxation or nature sounds.
5) Consider aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of concentrated, aromatic plant oils called essential oils.
If you've never heard of it before, you may have seen it before in the form of naturally-scented bath salts, body lotions, and massage oils.
A study in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that people exposed to the scent of lavender or rosemary essential oils felt more content than people who didn't use essential oils.
What you can do:
* Lavender essential oil is thought to have calming properties. Try it in an essential oil diffuser (a table-top gadget that lightly scents the surrounding air.
* Other options are body lotions, massage oils, and bath salts. Make sure that pure essential oils are used, as many products are made with artificial scents.
MY THOUGHTS
a couple of days ago, i broke my diffuser. the one that doesn't need candles. i was reaching for the lamp switch in the dark and forgot that the diffuser was there. oh well, i have no one else to blame. anyway, today is such a good day. i did brisk walking for an hour. had about 2 hours of dancing. i planned on going to bed early. well, that was my plan. i shouldn't have opened the laptop as such a late hour. maybe tomorrow.
Sources
_________________________
Brown S, Martinez MJ, Parsons LM. Passive music listening spontaneously engages limbic and paralimbic systems. Neuroreport. (2004)15.13: 2033-1037.
Haack M, Mullington JM. Sustained sleep restriction reduces emotional and physical well-being. Pain. (2005) 119.1-3: 56-64.
Menon V, Levitin DJ. The rewards of music listening: response and physiological connectivity of the mesolimbic system. Neuroimage. (2005) 28.1: 175-184.
Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Int J Neurosci. (2003) 113.1: 15-38.
Osei-Tutu KB, Campagna PD. The effects of short- vs. long-bout exercise on mood, VO2max, and percent body fat. Prev Med. (2005) 40.1: 92-98.
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Updated December 29, 2006
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
1) Go for a walk
Not only is walking a great mood-booster, but walking can burn calories and reduce body fat.
A study by researchers at Dalhousie University found that 30-minute walks were effective at reducing tension, anxiety, and mood disturbances and increasing energy and vigor.
What you can do:
* A pedometer can help you get motivated, make walking fun, and help you stick to healthy new exercise habits. It keeps track of the number of steps taken, total distance traveled, and number of calories burned.
And if you hate the idea of having a gadget strapped to your ankle, not to worry. Omron makes a pedometer that can be slipped into your pocket, purse, or clipped to your belt.
* Going for outdoor walks has an added benefit: the natural light stimulates the brain to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood.
2) Go to bed early
If late nights are a regular way of life for you, it may be affecting your mood and outlook on life. Getting less sleep than you need can increase anxiety, tension, and sadness.
Studies have shown that lack of sleep reduces emotional and physical well-being, reduces optimism, and even contributes to the onset and worsening of physical pain.
What you can do:
* Try to go to bed 30 minutes earlier every night.
* Make your bed a restful haven. Splurge on good pillows. Also consider treating yourself to soft sheets with at least a 300 thread count.
Sheets made of pima, supima, or better yet, egyptian cotton, which tend to be softer than muslin or percale.
3) De-clutter your space
It's almost impossible to relax and feel great when everywhere you look, there are bills, papers, and appointment cards piled on workspaces and spilling out of drawers. Organizing your home and office is a great way to start off the new year. Having everything in order can help calm anxiety, and some people find the actual cleaning part therapeutic.
What you can do:
* Each weekend, tackle a different area of your home or office.
* Turn to home stores for help. There are many types of organizers available to store your things in a neat, easily accessible way.
* If you don't have one already, consider getting an agenda or notebook to help you organize your thoughts.
* You can also make to-do lists (rather than memorize them) – it can really help to calm anxiety and checking off each task as you accomplish it provides a sense of fulfillment.
4) Listen to music
Music has a powerful effect on mood. It activates areas of the brain involved in the feeling of happiness.
Research has shown that it can lower blood pressure, heart rate, stress hormone levels, and may even improve cognitive abilities.
What you can do:
* Listen to music while traveling to work, during your lunch, or before you go to bed.
* What is most important is that you listen to music that you enjoy.
* Try music especially designed for relaxation or nature sounds.
5) Consider aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of concentrated, aromatic plant oils called essential oils.
If you've never heard of it before, you may have seen it before in the form of naturally-scented bath salts, body lotions, and massage oils.
A study in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that people exposed to the scent of lavender or rosemary essential oils felt more content than people who didn't use essential oils.
What you can do:
* Lavender essential oil is thought to have calming properties. Try it in an essential oil diffuser (a table-top gadget that lightly scents the surrounding air.
* Other options are body lotions, massage oils, and bath salts. Make sure that pure essential oils are used, as many products are made with artificial scents.
MY THOUGHTS
a couple of days ago, i broke my diffuser. the one that doesn't need candles. i was reaching for the lamp switch in the dark and forgot that the diffuser was there. oh well, i have no one else to blame. anyway, today is such a good day. i did brisk walking for an hour. had about 2 hours of dancing. i planned on going to bed early. well, that was my plan. i shouldn't have opened the laptop as such a late hour. maybe tomorrow.
Sources
_________________________
Brown S, Martinez MJ, Parsons LM. Passive music listening spontaneously engages limbic and paralimbic systems. Neuroreport. (2004)15.13: 2033-1037.
Haack M, Mullington JM. Sustained sleep restriction reduces emotional and physical well-being. Pain. (2005) 119.1-3: 56-64.
Menon V, Levitin DJ. The rewards of music listening: response and physiological connectivity of the mesolimbic system. Neuroimage. (2005) 28.1: 175-184.
Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Int J Neurosci. (2003) 113.1: 15-38.
Osei-Tutu KB, Campagna PD. The effects of short- vs. long-bout exercise on mood, VO2max, and percent body fat. Prev Med. (2005) 40.1: 92-98.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
how to make ginger tea- a natural remedy
Ginger Tea Recipe - How to Make Ginger Tea
How to Make Ginger Tea
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Updated September 20, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Ginger tea has a spicy, invigorating taste. It's used as a home remedy for indigestion, nausea, and to ward off colds, flu, and sore throats.
Ginger tea is very easy to make. Here is a recipe for you to try.
Ginger Tea Recipe
# water, 4 cups
# 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root
# optional: honey and lemon slice
Peel the ginger root and slice it into thin slices. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Once it is boiling, add the ginger. Cover it and reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea. Add honey and lemon to taste.
Note: Keep in mind that if you are making ginger tea as a home remedy during cold and flu season, sweeteners are not recommended.
MY THOUGHTS
try it. it's easy to make. and it's really good. honey and lemon slice would really hit the spot. and it's a natural remedy. i've always known that ginger is good for sore throat. didn't know it's also an alternative medicine for indigestion.
How to Make Ginger Tea
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Updated September 20, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
Ginger tea has a spicy, invigorating taste. It's used as a home remedy for indigestion, nausea, and to ward off colds, flu, and sore throats.
Ginger tea is very easy to make. Here is a recipe for you to try.
Ginger Tea Recipe
# water, 4 cups
# 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root
# optional: honey and lemon slice
Peel the ginger root and slice it into thin slices. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Once it is boiling, add the ginger. Cover it and reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea. Add honey and lemon to taste.
Note: Keep in mind that if you are making ginger tea as a home remedy during cold and flu season, sweeteners are not recommended.
MY THOUGHTS
try it. it's easy to make. and it's really good. honey and lemon slice would really hit the spot. and it's a natural remedy. i've always known that ginger is good for sore throat. didn't know it's also an alternative medicine for indigestion.
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