Natural Beauty Secrets

Do I Need A Natural Colon Cleanser Or Will Any Do?

2009-11-07T13:36:00.001+07:00

Finding a safe, effective and natural colon cleanser can be difficult, particularly when you begin to wade through the wealth of information that is available today regarding your colon?s health. Combine the articles that combine myriad opinions on the efficacy of natural colon cleansing with the enormous array of companies and individuals with cleansing mixtures for sale, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for an unbiased overview on the subject. If you have been drowning in an ocean of information while searching for your personal recipe for natural colon cleansers, then look no further. Here is a brief guide to what you need to know.

More than ever, we are aware of what we put into our bodies, and have come to discover, either through reading about various illnesses and conditions on the Internet, or having the misfortune of experiencing one of them for ourselves, that the health of our digestive system is paramount. The colon is an important part of this system, being the last stop for the waste that our body has accumulated before it leaves our body.

It makes sense that cleansing this region would be imperative to our health, and with our ever-growing body consciousness, that we would prefer all natural colon cleansing if possible.

While some people argue that the colon is, in fact, capable of performing such a cleansing procedure by itself, many others believe that even a healthy colon needs the help of a natural colon cleanser from time to time. Whether the urge to cleanse this area stems from an uncomfortable, and sometimes painful, bout of constipation, or the belief that the build up of toxins in the colon are causing a range of other, more diverse symptoms, even those who claim that colon cleansing is unnecessary would agree that a natural colon cleanse, performed properly, does no damage, and possibly a great deal of good.

For any natural colon cleanse to achieve optimal effects, a healthy diet must be adhered to during, and ideally after, the cleanse itself. Plenty of water should be consumed in order to more easily facilitate the passage of waste while a frequent component of the recipes for natural colon cleansers is the adoption of a liquid diet for the duration of the cleanse.

Many people find, in fact, that these simple dietary changes are sufficient to act as a natural colon cleanse in their own right, but for those still encountering problems, a more powerful cleanse can be achieved by the addition of such herbal substances as psyllium husks, which act as roughage, and probiotics, which help increase the number of healthy bacteria in the colon area, helping you to maintain the healthy colon achieved by your simple and all-natural colon cleanse.

And if you do undertake a complete colon cleanse then remember that you still have to look after yourself after the cleanse, that just doing a cleanse on it?s own won?t have long lasting benefits.

Visit Peter's Website about Colon Health and find out about Peter?s own experience of Colon Cleansing at http://www.colonhealthcounts.com/myexperience.php and more about colon health and constipation as well.

Mud Packs

2009-08-10T23:42:00.001+07:00

The nature cure practitioners at present are making increasing use of moistened earth in the treatment of diseases. The use of mud packs has been found highly beneficial and effective in the treatment of chronic inflammation caused by internal diseases, bruises, sprains, boils, and wounds. This mode of treatment is normally adopted in conjunction with a proper scheme of dietary and other natural therapies.

The advantage of mud treatment is that it is able to retain moisture and coolness for longer periods than cold water packs or compresses. The cold moisture in the mud packs relaxes the pores of the skin, draws the blood into the surface, relieves inner congestion and pain, promotes heat radiation and elimination of morbid matter.

A mud pack isprepared with clay obtained from about ten cms. below the surface of the earth, after ensuring that it does not contain any impurities such as compost or pebbles. The clay is then made into a smooth paste with warm water. This is allowed to cool and then spread on a strip of cloth, the size of which may vary according to requirements. The dimensions of the pack meant for application on the abdomen are generally 20 cms. X 10 cm.X 2.5 cm. for adults.

Mud packs have been found to be a valuable treatment of diseases relating to general weakness or nervous disorders. It can also bring down fever and is beneficial in the treatment of scarlet fever, measles and influenza. The mud pack is prescribed for swellings, eye and ear troubles, gout, rheumatism, stomach troubles, kidney and liver malfunctions, diptheria, neuralgia, sexual disorders, headache, toothache and general aches and pains. The mud bandage, after being placed on the body, should be covered with flannel or other protective material. The pack is applied for 10 to 30 minutes.

As the abdomen is the seat of most diseases, mud pack applied to this part of the body can cure many disorders including all forms of indigestion affecting the stomach and bowels. It is most effective in decreasing the external heat and breaking up the morbid matter. It also aids the inactivity of labour pains and for this purpose, the pack may be renewed every hour or two.

The mud pack is also helpful as an alternate treatment. The area under treatment is first given fomentation for five to 10 minutes until it is well heated. Mud is then applied directly to the skin for five to 15 minutes, depending upon the reaction required. Hot and cold applications are useful in relieving chronic pains, intestinal cramps and lumbago.

Alternate application helps to relieve discomfort caused by flatulence and intestinal obstructions.

It is also helpful in amoebiasis, colitis, enteritis and other inflammatory conditions of bacterial origin.

To learn more about the energy principle in healing, please read:

Cost-free Miracle Asthma Cure
Overcome Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes Naturally
Alternative Treatments for Incurable Diseases made easy

How Red Wine & Cheese Lower Your Blood Pressure

2009-05-18T19:36:00.001+07:00

Not all that long ago I used to attend art exhibitions in Sydney, Australia. No, I'm not an artist but just a person who happened to live in the trendier parts of town. It was a nice way to spend a Saturday afternoon - browsing new paintings by up-and-coming local artists. More often than not they would offer the guests small portions of various cheeses along with a selection of moderately priced wines. I had a great time, but I didn't know that what I was doing was also giving me a health boost bonus! You see, wine and cheese are the Batman & Robin dynamic duo for lowering your blood pressure.

When was the last time you had a wine and cheese party? You don't need to be an artist to enjoy one; it's a great way to entertain guests and a good excuse to get together. It's also a nice way to ward-off high blood pressure.

Cheese & wine parties are excellent for larger get-togethers as well. You can make it lots of fun by having every guest bring a bottle of wine and an exotic cheese. It's a great way to sample new wines and cheeses ... and a perfect way to get to know your friends better with free-flowing wine and conversation.

What better way to kick-back and relax ... both you and your arteries. Wine is good for lowering your blood pressure ... and so is cheese. But not just any old wine, make it a red one. Read on to find out why.

~ A glass or two of red ~

The flavonol called resveratol is a protective antioxidant. Free radicals are agents that affect chemical reactions in the body; they can cause cell damage resulting in cancer and other problems such as high blood pressure. Resveratol as the protective antioxidant protects your arteries against the damage done by free radicals and also assists in preventing the hardening of your arteries.

Flavonol also benefits you in another important way. The clumping together of blood platelets causes blood clotting and thrombosis - not something you want to have to deal with as both can be deadly serious problems! Flavonol is active in stopping your platelets from bunching up together; a glass of red wine helps your body to prevent these nasty problems by keeping your blood smoothly flowing through your arteries.

And some more good news ... recent studies have shown that drinking red wine also helps to improve the operation of your artery linings. When the linings of your arteries are working properly they freely dilate bringing down your blood pressure. The only question is how much of the good red is too much?

Nobody is suggesting you go out and buy a crate of red to be consumed immediately, but a glass or two a day is ideal for most people ... this is the perfect consumption to keep your heart and arteries young - and maintain your blood pressure at healthy levels. Which red wine is best? The darker varieties are best as they are higher in the protective resveratrol flavonoid. As far as white wine is concerned, you really shouldn't bother ... it has much less benefit than the mighty red.

~ A Chunk of Cheese ~

When we think of cheese we tend to think of how much fat it contains, and whilst cheese does have more than enough saturated fat, a little is actually good for you. The key is, of course, moderation. Just like red wine, if you don't go overboard, it can be healthy. Too much of it and your cholesterol levels can rise.

When cheese is being made and the milk is fermenting ... peptides are released from the milk proteins. Peptides, which are related to proteins and amino acids, help to control your blood pressure by impeding the enzymes that convert angiotensin. Angiotensin are made up of any of the three polypeptide hormones, one of which is a powerful vasoconstrictor (something that constricts a blood vessel). When the protein angiotensin gets converted to angiotensin II it constricts your arteries and increases the retention of water and sodium. This whole process has a rather adverse affect on your blood pressure - it pumps it right up!

You can stop the reaction that forces your blood pressure up by taking in the other peptides - those found in fermented milk products like cheese. Eating a small wedge of cheese blocks the enzyme that creates angiotensin II, helps your arteries to stay relaxed, and thereby keeps your blood pressure down.

~ Take it easy with a nice glass of Shiraz and a Slice of Gruyere ~

Having been at the grinding wheel all day ... when the tension built up during the day has pumped up your blood pressure ... why not enjoy some nice cheeses with a glass of dark red wine. Relax your mind, relax your body, relax your arteries ... get your blood pressure back to a normal level. It will be greatly appreciated by your heart!

Kery Bellis is a long-time natural health advocate and a strong supporter of an exciting new program helping victims of high blood pressure. Start living a healthier life now ... go to http://www.coolestebooks.com/products2.html

Cold Compress

2009-05-15T01:30:00.001+07:00

This is a local application using a cloth which has been wrung out in cold water. The cloth should be folded into a broad strip and dipped in cold water or ice water. The compress is generally applied to the head, neck, chest, abdomen, and back.

The cold compress is an effective means of controlling inflammatory conditions of the liver, spleen, stomach, kidneys, intestines, lungs, brain, pelvic organs and so on. It is also advantageous in cases of fever and heart disease. The cold compress soothes dermities and inflammations of external portions of the eye. When the eyeball is affected, the cold compress should follow a short fomentation.

Healing compress

This is a cold compress covered in such a manner as to bring warmth. A heating compress consists of three or four folds of linen cloth wrung out in cold water which is then covered completely with dry flannel or blanket to prevent the circulation of air and help accumulation of body heat. It is sometimes applied for several hours. The duration of the application is determined by the extent and location of the surface involved, the nature and thickness of the coverings and the water temperature. After removing the compress, the area should be rubbed with a wet cloth and then dried with a towel.

A heating compress can be applied to the throat, chest, abdomen, and joints. A throat compress relieves sore throat, hoarseness, tonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis. An abdominal compress helps those suffering from gastritis, hyperacidity, indigestion, jaundice, constipation, diarrhoea, dysentery and other ailments relating to the abdominal organs. The chest compress also known as chest pack, relieves cold, bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, fever, cough and so on, while the joints compress is helpful for inflamed joints, rheumatism, rheumatic fever and sprains.

To learn more about the energy principle in healing, please read:

Cost-free Miracle Asthma Cure
Overcome Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes Naturally
Alternative Treatments for Incurable Diseases made easy

I've Got A Cold Can You Make Me Some Chicken Soup

2009-05-12T16:00:00.001+07:00

Colds are caused by over 100 different viruses and the symptoms can last from 7 to 14 days regardless of any treatment. Not all viruses will cause you to have a ?temperature? ? however if this does occur and the temperature stays below 102 F (39 C), then the increased temperature will help get rid of the virus a little faster.

Because there is no effective treatment for the virus, the best thing to do is to keep your immune system in top condition ? and that means avoiding certain foods and giving your immune system the nutrition it needs.

Natural cold remedies includes:

Vitamin C to bowl tolerance and bioflavenoids, Vitamin A and bioflavenoids.

Garlic (very good natural antibiotic) and Echinacea (widely use in Europe ? improves production of immune system proteins).

Chicken soup! ? believe it or not, even Harvard and many other Universities have proven this as one of the best natural cold remedies. The protein in the soup helps to replace that which is lost through mucus and contains an amino acid (cysteine) that helps to thin the mucus.

Reduce your intake of milk and milk products as well as refined carbohydrates such as sugar, biscuits, bread etc. Avoid juices especially orange juice ? contains fructose sugar and can worsen the condition.

Drink plenty of water and lots of rest. Caution against over-exercising ? particularly if you have been taking antibiotics for a secondary infection (such as bronchitis or pneumonia). This can and does regularly lead to cardiac failure in otherwise healthy people including athletes.

Omega 3 essential fatty acids help boost the immune system. Conversely, fried food and vegetable oils (omega 6) depress the immune system.

There are many essential oils that can be used as natural cold remedies by inhaling, adding to a bath, and as a rub or massage including ? lavender, lemon, lemongrass, Roman and German chamomile, marjoram, ginger, tarragon, manuka, cedarwood, peppermint, ravensara, myrrh, orange, pine, oregano, frankincense, thyme, Eucalyptus globulus and E. radiata, rosemary, tea tree and thyme.

Recommended Supplements for Colds

All 90 essential nutrients ? including a full range of minerals, amino acids, vitamins and essential fatty acids.

Selenium ? is an immune-boosting supplement and important antioxidant.

An Echinacea/garlic supplement ? particularly useful before the ?cold season?.

Paul Newland is a health writer, sports training consultant and martial arts instructor and manages the Global-Longevity.com website. He is the author of numerous health information books and guides, including the Wellness Report, The Ultimate Antioxidant Report, The Selenium Report, The Bird Flu Report, The Ultimate Nutrient Guide and The Essential Fatty Acid Report and The Ultimate Sports Nutrition Guide - available Free (for a limited time) through Global-Longevity.com

Skin Toners: The Way Nature Intended

2009-05-12T15:54:00.001+07:00

There is a lot of debate surrounding the effectiveness and necessity of skin toners. Whether or not you choose to use skin toner within your own skincare routine is up to you.

Some people object to create their own skin toners as opposed to going out and buying it. The benefits of this method of creating your own recipes is obviously that you will know exactly what is going into you or skin toner concoction because you are the one designing it.

Obviously you should be fairly comfortable with reading your own toners if you're going to utilize this method. But for those of you who are might want to consider the costs associated with having certain natural ingredients such as rose petals and any number of organic natural recipes.

Some skin toners are made from harvest fruit or vegetables and will wide not only a natural solution for a toner but will make you look especially tasty, heh.

Just from reading the first few paragraphs of this article you should already begin to imagine the amazing number of possibilities not only in the creation of a skin toner or the acquisition of skin toner but in terms of the application. However if you simply just want to get this process done within your skincare regimen you should just go buy from your corner grocery pharmacy or supermarket.

Natural skin care product items that are home made may require an initial investment in time, but may be worth it for you. The choice is yours- please visit http://www.skin-care-1.com for more articles.

Sports and Nutrition

2009-05-05T19:51:00.000+07:00

Sports medicine or sport medicine is an interdisciplinary subspecialty of medicine which deals with the treatment and preventive care of athletes, both amateur and professional. The team includes specialty physicians and surgeons, athletic trainers, physical therapists, coaches, other personnel, and, of course, the athlete.

Illness or injury in sport can be caused by many factors ? from environmental to physiological and psychological. Consequently, sports medicine can encompass an array of specialties - cardiology, orthopaedic surgery, biomechanics, traumatology, etc. For example, heat, cold or altitude during training and competition can alter performance or may even be life threatening. What about the female triad of disordered eating, menstrual and bone density problems, and the pregnant or the aging athlete? In addition, the management of dermatological and endocrinological diseases and other such problems in the athlete demands expertise and sport-specific knowledge. The use of supplements, pharmacological or otherwise, and the topics of doping control and gender verification present complex moral, legal and health-related difficulties.

Then there are the particular problems associated with international sporting events, such as the effects of travel, acclimatization and the attempt to balance an athlete's participation and her or his health. Much of this represents new fields of study where extensive clinical and basic science research is burgeoning.

Finally, prevention is an area of increasingly specialized knowledge, interest and expertise.

For More Details Click Here

Specialized in Herbs, Vitamins, Enzymes, Diet & Weight loss and Nutritional supplements

Home Remedies for Nausea Chinese Style

2009-04-28T19:45:00.001+07:00

These home remedies for nausea are based on simple, traditional Chinese ways to relieve and prevent this common and uncomfortable symptom. Several remedies use ginger for its ability to harmonize and settle the stomach. These particular ginger remedies for nausea can therefore also be used in cases where vomiting occurs as well. Note though that ginger has a warming effect on the body, so if you feel uncomfortably hot or flushed or perhaps have a headache after taking it via one of these remedies for nausea, reduce the amount of ginger next time, or try a non-ginger remedy.

Home Remedies for Nausea

Remedy 1. Ginger Milk: Boil 250ml of fresh, whole milk, 25ml of ginger juice (made from crushing fresh ginger) and 25g of brown sugar for 10 minutes. Sip slowly while it's still hot.

Remedy 2. Ginger Water: Put 3 slices of fresh ginger in a cup, add boiling water, and brown sugar to taste. Drink warm. Leave the ginger in the cup and top it up with more water 1 or 2 times throughout the day if necessary.

Remedy 3. Ginger Tea: Put 3 slices of fresh ginger and 2-3 grams of black tea (or a tea bag) in a cup. Add boiling water, then let it steep for several minutes. Drink warm. As above, leave the ingredients in the cup and top it up throughout the day if necessary.

Remedy 4. Pu Er Tea: From Yunnan province in China, and widely available, this tea is highly regarded for its beneficial effects on digestion. It may be used in cases of nausea, vomiting and even obesity. Put 5 or 6 grams in a cup, add boiling water, then let it steep for several minutes. Drink it warm. Re-use it throughout the day, as above.

Remedy 5. Orange Peel: Perhaps the simplest of all these home remedies for nausea, but not necessarily the least effective. Peel an orange and bruise the skin by twisting and crushing it with your fingers. Hold the skin to your nose and sniff the scent.

Remedy 6. Acupressure: Applying thumb pressure to a specific point on your wrists makes for another very simple, yet highly effective remedy for nausea. This point is well known by Chinese medicine practitioners for its ability to relieve anxiety, stress, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms. For full illustrated instructions on locating and pressing the point (referred to as Point 1), see:

http://chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com/reflexology-for-anxiety.html

For greater effectiveness it is recommended that you combine some of the above home remedies for nausea. For instance, choose one ginger remedy and take it once or twice a day, plus do the acupressure several times a day. Note also that if you're pregnant and suffering from morning sickness, ginger is one of the most common and safest Chinese home remedies for nausea and vomiting. Check with your health professional first though if you're unsure about this.

Matthew Scott is a professionally trained Chinese medicine practitioner from Australia, living in China since 2000. His website http://chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com offers classic, time-tested exercises & techniques to stretch, strengthen, energize, relax, ease pain and improve your overall health.

Why You Are Fat Natural Weight Loss Dieting Program

2009-04-24T13:00:00.001+07:00

Have you ever wondered why you are fat and have considered going on a weight loss dieting program? If you did, then you must know why certain food makes you fat.

Most if not all of us are somewhat carbohydrate addicts. We have pastas, pizzas, white rice, spaghettis, bread, refined flour food and confectionaries in almost if not all our meals. Just look at the queues at the fast food joints on a regular day and you will know what I mean. Bread and sweet sugary drinks are the menu of the day, naturally.

Some of us are reluctant to embark on a weight loss dieting program to lose that excess baggage (body fat) because we think it is an exercise in sheer willpower and futility.

You are asking me not to eat bread/rice/pizzas/hamburgers, chocolates and ice-creams my entire life? You must be nuts! Sounds familiar? For those who incessantly snack on biscuits and chocolates between meals to stave off hunger while working at the office, here is why.

You unwittingly and naturally reach for such snacks because of the food you chose to eat earlier at an earlier meal. If you start the day with three or four slices of white bread spread with fruit jam or margarine and then wash it down with coffee and sugar, you can be sure you will be craving for snacks by mid-morning even though your breakfast was a filling one.

When your food made up primarily of carbohydrate, especially refined carbohydrate like white bread and pizzas, with little protein or fat, not to mention high in sugar, your blood glucose surges crazily following that meal.

To counter the effect of extreme glucose surge in your blood stream, your pancreas will pump more insulin than usual to bring your blood glucose level down. What happens then is that your blood glucose surges will then dip lower than your pre-meal level. When this happens, you start to get hungry and crave for more sweet stuff and more carbohydrate. This is why you reach for sweet snacks and drinks instinctively. Thus the vicious cycle continues again and again and you are eating more and more calories. So choosing the food in your meal is important so that you will not get hungry fast and then consume more calories to satisfy that hunger upsetting your natural weight loss dieting program.

When more carbohydrate is consumed than can be stored by your liver and muscles as glycogen, they are naturally converted to fat. So what should you do?

Well, you can start to limit your carbohydrate consumption (note that I said limit and not stop) and on top of that, choose slow digesting carbohydrates especially carbohydrate with fibers like fibrous vegetables, fruits, legumes, brown rice and brown bread, your insulin spike will not be so eccentric and therefore you will not get hungry or having your sweet tooth so often.

Now think about it, if you do not reach for your snacks and sugary drinks that often, it means that you are consuming fewer calories. So if your caloric consumption is less than your caloric expenditure, you are right on a natural weight loss dieting program without even realizing it. Better still, you are not going on a hunger and starvation diet because you will not get hungry that easily.

Just imagine now that you are losing weight naturally, what if you incorporate an exercise routine into your natural weight loss dieting program to burn off some more calories? Your natural weight loss result will be amazing wouldn?t it?

Now that you know why you are fat, let?s get started on this natural weight loss dieting program.

About The Author
Chris Chew is a fitness personal trainer of actors, fashion models, male pageant winners and other celebrities. See his health and fitness websites at http://www.sgfitness.com and http://www.sgfitnessonline.com.

An Introduction To Natural Skin Care

2009-04-13T19:06:00.001+07:00

Research indicates that self-confident people perform well at work and have secure relationships. Great looking skin makes one feel good and adds to self-confidence. While some people are born with flawless skin, others have to work hard to achieve it. Even individuals blessed with a lovely complexion need to take care of their skin regularly.

Natural skin care involves the application of naturally occurring materials to cleanse, refresh, and nourish skin. These materials are readily available, inexpensive, and harmless unless one is allergic to any of them.

Different skin types require different skin care products and beauty regimens. People with normal skin can use a number of natural aids to enhance their looks. A mask made of fresh apple juice and honey can be applied on the face and neck and rinsed off after 20 minutes. A mix of orange-peel powder, oatmeal, and milk can also be used effectively.

Oily skin tends to be problematic, especially during adolescence. A mask of raw egg whites and freshly squeezed lemon juice can help to reduce the oiliness. This mask should be washed off with warm water. A mask made with grated cucumber and rosewater can also work magic on oily skin.

Dry skin tends to get drier with age and to look rough. A concoction of mashed ripe banana, honey, and olive oil can be applied to refresh and nourish dry, tired-looking skin. Ripe strawberries, mashed and mixed with fresh cream can also be used.

Two masks should ideally be applied on combination skin, simultaneously. One mask should take care of the T-zone and the other, the rest of the face and the neck. Alternatively, one can add olive or almond oil to the same mask to take care of the drier areas. A mask made of oatmeal and yogurt can be applied to the T-zone. Honey can be added to this mask, for the drier zone.

To sum up, natural skin care can improve the texture of all skin types, at a minimum cost. However, this care has to be supplemented with a nutritious, low-fat diet, regular exercise, and plentiful sleep to obtain glowing skin that earns praise.

Skin Care provides detailed information on Skin Care, Skin Care Products, Natural Skin Care, Anti Aging Skin Care and more. Skin Care is affiliated with Natural Skin Care Products.

Natural Remedies For Depression

2009-04-12T18:00:00.001+07:00

It is true that forms of depression cannot be avoided, although, it has also been proved that a healthy life style can play a major role in alleviating depression or even preventing some forms from even occurring. Mild types of depression can develop from poor diet and nutrition. Lack of exercises, stress, poor, little, or no sleep, traveling, lack of necessities, withdrawl from an addiction, and lack of sunlight have also been linked to some cases of depression.

There are many natural ways of relieving depression, but like i said, it can be prevented by a proper life style and diet. Here are 2 all natural and healthy methods in preventing depression and alleviating it.

Herbal remedies for depression:

-2 Parts St-John's-Wart (Hypericum Perforatum)

-1 Part Oat (Avena Sativa)

-1 Part Lavender (Lavandula Officinalis)

-1 Part Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris)

Take this mixture in 5mL servings three times a day.

Depressive symptoms are exacerbated by nutrition deficiencies, there for a well-balanced diet is important to insure the proper daily intake of vitamins and minerals.

Supplement Remedies for depression:

-Vitamin B Complex - 400 mcg/day

-Folic Acid - 400 mcg/day

-S-Adenosylmethionine - 800mg/2x day

-Selenium - 100 mcg/day

Recommended daily dose of the amino acid supplement L-tryptaphon. This amino acid is known to increase the synthesis of serotonin and in turn relieve depression. L-tryptaphon is found in foods such as turkey, chicken, fish, soybeans, cooked dried beans, peas, yeast, and peanut butter. The proper intake of carbs should also be taken to help the brains uptake of L-tryptaphon.

Got a question? Try the Forums

Tyler D Falls - Info researcher

Healing With Crystals Part II

2009-04-02T13:01:00.001+07:00

The Lemurian Seed Crystals were apparently discovered in Brazil along the face of a hillside where Quartz crystal was being strip-mined. These naturally formed generators and amplifiers of energy were found alone partially buried in sand.

They were single, or seed crystals, meaning they were not attached to clusters as other quartz is found to be in that area. Because of this anomaly these Lemurian Seed Crystals immediately got attention.

Most of the crystals found were suffused with a pink or reddish glow and instead of being shiny, like most clear quartz; they were frosty or dull, appearing to have a matte-like finish.

What sets these crystals apart from any I have ever seen is there characteristically unique series of horizontal striations that run up one, or more sides of the crystal. Most, but not all, of these horizontal striations end in a triangular face that forms the apex of the crystal.

Both of my Lemurian Seed Crystals have at least three or more sides with horizontal striations and are optic, completely clear with no inclusions, giving them the largest capacity for healing that a crystal can have.

Both of them also form an apex at the top of the crystal which is helpful for directing Chi or life force energy flow, as well as drawing in or pulling out energy, depending on the requirements of the situation.

It is believed that these Lemurian Seed Crystals were left by the Lemurians, an ancient race that seeded our planet eons ago; who departed from earth when conditions became too inhospitable and life could no longer be sustained.

The legend goes that the vast majority of Lemurians left planet earth for other star systems while others elected to remain and continue to dwell in other dimensions of our inner earth's system, acting as guardians and protectors for the seed of our human race.

It is these inner earth dwellers who are thought to be responsible for the discovery of these Lemurian Seed Crystals at this time. It is also thought that the Lemurian dwellers of inner earth continue to maintain a clear and conscious telepathic connection with their fellow Lemurians who traveled eons ago to other star systems.

This highly evolved race of beings continues to preserve and thrive from their unity consciousness. The Lemurian Seed Crystals carry the wisdom of unity consciousness and have not, as yet, been fully activated.

Since their discovery they have been attracted to people who are actively assisting in anchoring the energies that will aid our planet to grow in awareness of the primal unity of all things.

I have been frequently engaging with the energy of my Lemurian Seed Crystals since their arrival. I experience them as powerful allies that are activating an opening of my heart chakra. They seem specifically attuned to clearing, balancing and charging each of my chakras and the interrelationships between my chakras.

The more aligned and open I become to the Lemurian Seed Crystals' energy transmissions for unity consciousness the more they affect a transformation and healing of my being.

In Part III of Healing with Lemurian Seed Crystals I will speak more about the legend of the Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as discuss my empirical findings when using them in practice, and how I am using them to amplify the effects of PurePlant Essentials.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG's DVD & book, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To learn more & purchase PurePlant Essentials: PurePlant Essentials Menu Please refer to KG's Essentials Safety Guide before using any aromatic oils! KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact: KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Yoga Clothing for Yoga Mamas

2009-03-30T13:26:00.001+07:00

The popular media has recently caught the scent of the growing importance of yoga within the blossoming lifestyle trends towards improving individual health and the wholeness of consciousness. Some of these articles have made a caricature of the yoga mama portraying only a tiny tip of the iceberg while missing the enormous impact that this lifestyle trend is creating within our society. But as they say, All publicity is good publicity and we all welcome the recognition and attention towards ways to improve our quality of life, health and awareness.

The science, philosophy, practice and art of Yoga are vast. At its basis, Yoga is Union, union with the simplest form of awareness - Pure Consciousness. The many different branches and schools of Yoga all have the same goal which is the complete integration and perfect functioning of body and mind.

Because Yoga integrates and strengthens all aspects of our mind, body and awareness, the benefits from the practice of Yoga are wide and far reaching with improvements in cardiovascular efficiency, the respiratory system, muscular and structural flexibility and suppleness, greater emotional and mental balance, increased energy, reduced stress, increased mental clarity, and improved health.

The clothing that you wear when practicing Yoga should help you on the Path and not be a distraction. Your yoga clothing should allow you to move easily and freely in the different asana postures without strain or restriction. Keep these qualities in mind when selecting your yoga clothing:

Comfortable. Yoga clothes should be comfortable and allow free movement for your body in the various Yoga positions. Some people prefer loose fitting clothing that allows plenty of room to move and some prefer close-fitting, stretchy clothing with a bit of lycra so your clothes don?t get in the way of your movements. Either can work well and it is largely a matter of choice. Make sure that your clothing also is suitable to your level of modesty and that as you stretch and bend your clothing doesn?t expose more of yourself than you feel comfortable with.

When choosing your yoga wear chose clothing made with pure organic cotton or hemp as these provides maximum comfort by allowing the body to breathe properly which is an essential for yoga apparel. Another important feature of Yoga clothes should be sweat absorbency to help keep you dry and comfortable. Besides being softer, the longer fibers of organic cotton have much greater moisture absorbency than chemically grown and processed conventional cotton. Hemp has the greatest absorbency of all the natural fibers and is a good choice for yoga and activewear clothing.

For ladies, it is wise to invest in a good sport bra which can help considerably with support and comfort. This will enhance and bring self confidence during your yoga practice.

Healthy. Our desire to improve our health through the practice of Yoga should be supported by wearing healthy, organic clothing. Cotton is the most popular natural fiber but conventionally grown and manufactured cotton is the most chemically-intensive fiber grown with devastating consequences to the environment. Conventionally grown cotton consumes 25% of the pesticides used in the world. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found that the nine most common pesticides are highly toxic ? five are probable carcinogens.

Protect your health and the health of the environment by selecting organically grown and manufactured clothing.

Durable. The stretching, bending, and twisting of some yoga asanas can strain some seams and fabrics. Select well-constructed clothing with double seams and durable manufacturing. The longer fibers of organic cotton and hemp are naturally stronger, wear longer and are more comfortable.

Life Sustaining. Practicing yoga will help us establish balance within ourselves and a balanced lifestyle in harmony with our environment. Part of this balanced lifestyle is acknowledging the right of all people to be paid a fair and just wage for their labors. When purchasing your yoga clothes look for clothing that has been manufactured in a Fair Trade, non-sweatshop environment.

We can gain many benefits to mind, body, and spirit from the practice of yoga. Get the most from your yoga practice by selecting yoga clothing that will help give the maximum experience. And enjoy.

Michael Lackman is a long yoga practicioner. He is also the founder of LotusOrganics.com, an online organic clothing store offering purely beautiful and healthy organic clothing for yoga, exercise, casual wear and sleepwear.

Fibromyalgia Treatment Options

2009-03-29T19:59:00.001+07:00

Below is an overview of various Fibromyalgia Treatment options available to the patient.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture stems from the Chinese philosophy of energy flowing in the meridians that lie below the skin. Energy imbalances in these meridians is used for the diagnosis of disease. Acupuncturists insert very fine needles into the skin to balance energy as in fibromyalgia pain treatment. Acupuncture is often used to help control pain and is beneficial for pain management in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

Allopathic

Typically Allopathic physicians recommend the following medications for patients with Fibromyalgia Symptoms:

?Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID?s) - These over-the-counter pain relievers may ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia, however, their effectiveness varies with individuals.

?Antidepressants - These medications are prescribed to patients with depression. The medication affects the levels of Serotonin in the brain.

?Muscle Relaxants - If muscle relaxants are taken before sleeping, they may help reduce pain and spasms.

?Narcotics - Physicians don't usually recommend narcotics for treating FMS because of the potential for dependence and addiction.

Chiropractor

Chiropractic treatment is based on the premise that restricted movement in the spine may lead to reduced function and pain. Spinal adjustment (manipulation) is one form of therapy a chiropractor uses to treat restricted spinal mobility. The goal is to restore spinal movement and, as a result, improve function, decreasing pain. Manipulation does not need to be forceful to be effective. A Chiropractor may also use soft tissue massage in the treatment of FMS, stretching muscles that are shortened or in spasm.

Diet And Nutrition

A natural Fibromyalgia Treatment and balanced fibromyalgia nutrition diet can be helpful in counteracting stress, removing toxins from the body, and restoring the natural balance of nutrients. Homeopathy medicine, FIBRO-HELP products, help patients by combatting stress, replacing deficiencies, and supporting the immune system. Patients are recommended to limit the amount of sugar; caffeine; alcohol; and fried, processed, fatty foods consumed. These substances have been shown to irritate muscles and stress the system increasing FM pain. Even for those patients who do not have severe food triggers or allergies, eating a healthier diet can have long-term benefits in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Supplementing the present diet with greater quantities of raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables, and substituting meats that are high in fat with fish or lean poultry, are also beneficial practices.

Exercise

Fibromyalgia Exercise is one of the most powerful remedies in the treatment of fibromyalgia. Increasing scientific evidence has shown that exercising for a minimum of 20 minutes per day will help fibromyalgia patients as a natural fibromyalgia treatment. Exercise becomes a key component in healing FM Syndrome patients because a properly designed routine will improve the body tissues, decrease pain, and increase mobility. The fibromyalgia exercise program must be slow and gradual. The goal is to improve overall health while decreasing FM symptoms.

Homeopathy

The word Homeopathy (or Homoeopathy) is derived from the Greek words ?homoios?, meaning ?like? or ?similar?; and ?pathos?, meaning ?suffering? or ?disease?. Homeopathy is a system of medical therapeutics for treating based on the principle of ?similae? or ?simile.? ?Disease is eliminated through remedies able to produce similar symptoms.? The principle is that certain substances (herbs, minerals, inorganic salts, and other organic materials, etc.) in full strength yield the same symptoms as does a known disease, and that those same substances when potentised (or diluted and vigorously agitated) can provide relief of those same symptoms. Titrated dilutions and succussions of a particular substance can often be the means for fibromyalgia treatment. Today, unlike nutritional substances, Homeopathy substances are considered medicines, recognized as powerful entities which allow specific medical claims to be made about them.

Massage Therapy

Massage involves the use of different manipulative techniques to move the body's muscles and soft tissues. Massage Therapy aims to improve circulation in the muscle, increasing the flow of nutrients, eliminating waste products. Massage can relax muscles, improve range of motion in the joints, and increase the production of the body's natural painkillers. It often helps relieve stress and anxiety for those afflicted with the symptoms of pain.

Naturopathic

Doctors of Naturopathic Medicine are educated with the same general medical curriculum as traditional Allopathic doctors, but also study traditional natural therapeutics emphasizing lifestyle changes, disease prevention, and optimal wellness. They perform physical examinations, laboratory testing, gynecological exams, nutritional and dietary assessments, metabolic analysis, and allergy testing. They may order diagnostic testing, as well as incorporate a wide variety of natural therapeutics for natural fibromyalgia treatment. .

Osteopathy

Osteopaths are licensed to perform many of the same therapies and procedures as traditional Allopathic doctors. One area where Osteopathy differs from conventional medicine - but is similar to Chiropractic medicine - is in the use of manipulation to address joint and spinal problems. This is beneficial in the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms

Physiatry

Physicians who specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation are called Physiatrists. Doctors of Physiatry specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of patients in 3 major areas of medical care: musculoskeletal injuries and pain syndromes, Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and rehabilitation of patients with severe physical impairments.

Physiotherapy

Physical Therapy is a health care profession that helps the patient restore the use of muscles, bones, and the nervous system. The basics of the physical therapy profession include the use of modalities like ice, heat, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation. Therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, manual therapy, and hydrotherapy-aquatic therapy are all used for pain relief and fibromyalgia treatment.

Self Care

Self Care is critical in the treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome. Some important tips for self care:

?Reduce Stress - Avoid or limit overexertion and emotional stress. Allow time to relax daily practicing stress reduction techniques such as deep-breathing exercises or meditation for FMS treatment. Sleep - Fatigue is one of the major symptoms of FM, getting enough sleep is essential. In addition to allotting enough time for sleep, get into a routine of sleeping and waking up at the same hour each day. Take short naps to restore energy in the body. Fibromyalgia Exercise - Regular exercise will help improve chronic pain symptoms. Stretching, optimum posture techniques, and relaxation practices are also helpful.

?Pacing - Keep a balance on daily activities. If too much is done on a good day, take time off the following day, and rest to avoid bad days.

?Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle - Eat a balanced diet, limit caffeine and alcohol intake, get plenty of rest, exercise regularly, and do a leisure activity which is enjoyable and fulfilling as a complete FIBRO treatment.

About The Author
Leela Fraser is the the editor for The Fibromyalgia Treatment Center http://www.back-fibromyalgia-pain.com which provides extensive resources on Fibromyalgia Treatment and natural medications.

Natural Progesterone Cream

2009-03-27T19:53:00.001+07:00

Progesterone cream, used during hormone replacement, is a natural product from plants. Fermented wild yams and soybeans produce a substance called diosgenin that can be used as a raw product to produce artificial progesterone. This product can be also used to produce synthetic estrogen, cortisones, and other similar hormones. This process can be done only in a laboratory.

Natural progesterone is similar in structure to the hormones produced by the body and is useful if the body does not produce enough progesterone independently. The cream is often used before menopause and can sometimes be used to assist in premature deliveries.

Problems such as PMS, insomnia, depression, and infertility caused due to lack of progesterone in the body can be avoided by using natural progesterone. Since these are caused due to hormonal imbalance in women, it can be rectified using this product. Even men can use this in cases of acute depression and insomnia.

One natural progesterone cream available in today?s market is ?Estro-All?. The product claims to provide relief for most of the menopause related issues. Since this is natural progesterone, it is easily absorbed into the skin with very less side effects.

Natural progesterone can be used when the body no longer produces enough progesterone to keep estrogen in check. This might lead to a variety of problems such as breast cancer, breast cysts, endometrial cancer and such. Natural progesterone can be used to normalize oxygen levels in the body as well as for blood clotting and sugar level in the blood.

Progesterone Cream provides detailed information about progesterone cream, how to use progesterone cream, natural progesterone creams and more. Progesterone Cream is affiliated with Stretch Mark Removal.

Traditional Medicine For Acne And Its Side Effects

2009-03-26T14:45:00.001+07:00

If you are thinking why acne affects only you, you are terribly wrong. Acne is the most widespread skin disorder in the world, according to statistics. That?s the reason why experts and laboratories spend a lot of time doing research to determine how acne forms and how it is eliminated. Different treatments, medicines, and products have been produced to help control and eliminate this skin disorder.

In traditional medicine there are about 7 different treatments that are used in prevention and elimination of acne. There are also much different products that use these treatments in one way or another.

Some of these acne treatments that help to reduce or eliminate acne problems are: Accutane, antibiotics, Benzoyl Peroxide, herbal remedies, Retin-A and Salicylic Acid, among others.

Accutane (Isotetinoin) is a powerful drug that is normally prescribed for severe acne in cases where other treatments have failed to work. It is normally taken for a 4-6-month period.

Antibiotics were designed to fight bacteria. These are used to control acne mainly from the inside. Some topical antibiotics (clindamycin) are applied directly to the skin. Other antibiotics (tetracycline) are in pill form.

Benzoyl Peroxide is an anti-bacterial agent that has been used to control acne for many years. It has been proven to work very well in the elimination and prevention of acne.

Herbal Remedies are a relative newcomer to mainstream acne fighting. It is thought that certain herbs are effective in regulating oil levels and other body functions that are cause of acne.

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a combination of retinoic acid and vitamin A acid. It was designed to treat acne, sun damage, and wrinkles. It unplugs follicles and turnovers over dead skin cells.

Salicylic acid helps to slow down the shedding of cells inside the follicle and it is available in many treatments purchasable without a doctor's p The best way to prevent post-inflammatory changes caused by acne is to prevent acne lesions from occurring. This is done by understanding the factors that cause acne and using the appropriate treatments for the different acne types.

Choose with a professional guidance your treatment, go to your dermatologist and explain the symptoms you are developing. Most acne treatments fight the symptoms of acne, while ignoring the biological processes that actually allow oil to build up in the first place.

If your acne has not improved within two to three months, your treatment may need to be changed. In these case you must also visit your dermatologist who, according to the type of acne and providing an updated history of what you are using on your skin or taking internally, will indicate the right new treatment.

Indeed, there are no nippy fixes in treating acne and acne scars. It may involve a lot of processes and products which may vary depending on how you will utilize them or what your doctor will prescribe.

Although, many of these acne treatments (even those that claim not to cause dryness) can still end up agitating your skin and causing more harm than good. Unfortunately, natural acne treatments are often just too weak to give people the results they need. Hopefully, there?s a new natural product that works like a skin regenerating activator.

Natural Bio Skin Care Cream is made with a natural substance gathered from a little creature that nature has endowed with the ability to repair his skin quickly when damaged, and to protect it from environmental hazards and pollution.

Bio Skin Care Cream is a gentler, yet most effective solution. It actually utilizes biological activators of skin growth factors collected from mucins produced by land snails to regenerate their own skin and shell when injured and to protect themselves from the sun and environmental hazards.

Now, for the first time, BIO SKIN CARE CREAM brings you an effective skin renewal product that incorporates natural skin renewal activators to gently exfoliate the worn out cells while at the same time triggering the reproduction of new collagen and elastin cells, resulting in a coordinated biological regulation of the skin renewal process and thus advanced skin rejuvenation.

About The Author
Martha Fitzharris is a free lance journalist for http://www.naturalbioskincare.com a website offering a new biological natural skin care product that activates skin renewal for Strech marks.

Protect Yourself for the Upcoming Cold & Flu Season

2009-03-25T13:08:00.001+07:00

There is no quick fix for the flu pandemic

If vaccines and drugs are available too late to stop bird flu, then what can be done to battle H5N1 avian influenza if it spreads to people? Not a lot, experts say. If a pandemic emerges in the coming year, there will not be enough supplies of drugs or vaccines to stop it and basic medical equipment that could slow its spread is also lacking.

Ladies and Gentlemen it is time that you take health care into your own hands. With headlines like you just read, you can see that you and your loved ones are facing one of the greatest challenge that pose a threat to mankind. You cannot rely on our current health care system or your government alone to protect you.

You have been reading about the Spanish Flu, SARS, and Bird Flu for several years now, and, frankly, at this time you should be real concerned. The threat is real, and it is darn right scary if you look at all the information surrounding this alarming problem.

You need to understand what you can do to protect yourself and your family from viruses such as the bird flu, the Spanish flu, SARS and many other flu strains. I don?t know about you, but I am not one to take a chance and think that I will be one of the few lucky ones to obtain the vaccine for this epidemic called the bird flu plague that is being predicted!

Your best defense is the human immune system. More specifically your immune system.

The human immune system is a truly amazing constellation of responses to attacks from outside the body. It has many facets, a number of which can change to optimize the response to these unwanted intrusions. The system is remarkably effective, most of the time.

The key statement is most of the time. You need to understand exactly what you need to do to support your body so that your immune system is as strong as it can possibly be all of the time not most of the time.

When functioning properly, your immune system fights disease-producing organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. A strong immune system provides you with powerful natural defenses against disease. Conversely, with a weakened immune system you are more vulnerable or more susceptible to colds, flu, and more serious illnesses.

Pollution, drug overload and nutrient-poor diets compromise our immune health. Drugs aren't the answer for immune enhancement. The immune system is not responsive to drugs for healing. Antibiotics used to fight infections actually depress the immune system when used long-term.

The world is filled with disease-causing organisms; and your body is filled with natural defenses to resist them. The key to self-healing is a strong defense system, which protects you from everything from the flu germs to cancer cells.

All disease and illness in their various manifestations are a result of the failure of the immune system.

Antibiotics fight infection, but they don't affect whatever factors caused a weakened the immune system. We are designed to eat natural foods such as fruit, vegetables, seeds, nuts, pure clean water, plant roots, meats that have no antibiotics or growth hormones.

Over the past several years we have been exposed to commercially prepared foods, synthetic foods, foods overloaded with sugar as well as the chemicals these foods contain - chemicals that our bodies simply aren't meant to handle. Today we have more stress in our lives caused by a multitude of factors that is compromising your body's immune system responses.

Our current supply of foods are missing key nutrients that our bodies must have in order to build a strong healthy immune system. ?The alarming fact is that foods (fruits, vegetables, and grains) now being raised on millions of acres of land that no longer contain enough of certain minerals are starving us ? no matter how much of them we eat. No man today can eat enough fruits and vegetables to supply his (or her) system with the minerals he requires for perfect health because his stomach isn't big enough to hold them ? The truth is that our foods vary enormously in value, and some them aren't worth eating as food ? Our physical well-being is more directly dependent upon the minerals we take into our systems than on calories or vitamins or upon the precise proportions of starch, protein or carbohydrates we consume.? The preceding quote is from Senate Document 264, dated 1936

Recent studies suggest that vitamins and minerals delivered to the human body by fruits and vegetables may have declined as much as thirty to forty-percent since 1960.

So what happens when your immune system response is not functioning the way it was designed?

The answer is it will not protect you the way it was meant to!

If you are exposed to a flu like the Spanish Flu, SARS, or the Bird Flu and your immune system is dysfunctional you are more likely then not to contract that flu virus that you were exposed to.

The particular influenza strain that the World Health Organization fears may break out as the next pandemic at any time is called H5N1 bird flu virus. If this occurs as they fear the numbers of people affected would be in the tens of millions.

We have seen it before, where there is a shortage of a specific vaccine. If they do not have a vaccine readily available the result will be disastrous. Just imagine if this occurs, imagine this killer flu spreading around the world instantaneously through person to person in various public places, on airplanes and from city to city. Medical facilities would be overwhelmed.

How can you protect yourself from the bird flu pandemic?

By building a strong immune system. It is like a shield of armor, defending your body and protecting it from harm. That may be easy to say but extremely difficult to do. Your immune system is a network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to defend your body against attacks by foreign invaders.

Good nutrition is essential to developing and keeping your immune system healthy and strong. Nutritional deficiencies may be responsible for chronic immune problems as it is easier for bacteria or viruses to take hold when important nutrients are missing.

Therefore the most important nutrients are the ones that are missing in your diet!

More than 75,000 chemicals are permeating our environment. Chemical exposures can damage the immune system, decreasing the ability to fight off common infections, viruses such as the bird flu and other serious diseases such as cancer.

Things you can do to strengthen your immune system; A well balanced nutritious diet, specific food supplements, good clean purified water, a healthy mental attitude and emotional well-being, a nontoxic environment, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics and vaccines, low stress, and plenty of rest and exercise.

A strong Immune System will help you to fight off all manner of diseases, colds and flu's. Learn how to support your body's natural ability to balance your immune system and restore cellular wellness.

Recent science has determined the significance of a function in the human body called cellular communication. Your cells communicate information through a series of glycoproteins that cover every single cell in your body.

The significance of this discovery called glycobiology is literally how your body?s immune system functions. In other words it is the operating system of the human body.

The immune system is an extraordinarily complex system that relies on an elaborate and dynamic communications network that exists among the many different kinds of immune system cells that patrol your body though the cell surface structures called glycoproteins.

True health cannot be achieved unless your immune system is operating as nature intended. The human immune system needs specific powerful nutrients that supply your body what it needs to exhibit active defenses against infectious diseases such as the bird flu.

You have to understand that the function of cellular communication can not occur properly unless you have an ample supply of nutrients called glyconutrients so that you body can balance your immune system and restore the proper cellular communication function. Just like the other essential nutrients, glyconutrients are not readily available in your current food supply in the amounts that you require to function at an optimal level.

Discover the nutritional application called glyconutrients that supplies nutrients so your body can support the structure that facilitates cellular communication which in turn supports a strong vibrant immune system. There is nothing more important then strengthening your immune system

Kerry Greening is a health and wellness consultant helping you address the underlying causes of disease so you can restore and have dynamic vibrant health.

Learn how you can maximize your immune health and protect yourself from colds and flus

http://www.diseaseeducation.com/diseases/Bird-Flu-Virus.php

What Would You Think if I said that You could Overdose on Water?

2009-03-24T12:17:00.001+07:00

You would probably think that I was writing a lot of old rubbish, but please stay with me, as I can assure you that it is very possible and there are many cases reported worldwide to back up my statement.

A number of medical experts recommend that everyone should drink eight glasses of water per day, which is about two litres. This old chestnut has been pulled out of the fire, so many times over the years, that no one really knows where the recommendation came from in the first place, or what the benefits to your health would be, if you followed this regime.

A survey that was sponsored by large companies that sell bottled water, state that everyone should consume between one and a half, to two litres per day, of Natural Mineral Water, of course, makes you think, when they paid for the survey.

There is a lot of confusion about how much water should be taken daily, and when you look around, you will see numerous people carrying their water bottles of natural mineral water everywhere, probably more ladies than men.

Excessive consumption of water can lead to a condition known as, Hyponatremia, which means ?water intoxication?.

People are encouraged to drink water for detoxing purposes, and yes, it does that very well, it can flush most of the toxins out of your body, this is one of the things that it is meant for, but, when you overdo it, the minerals and sodium levels in the blood can become too low, because they are also being flushed out of your system, this can lead to complications, coma and even death.

This situation has often been seen in Athletes, especially runners when they collapse on the track, this is frequently caused by a low level of sodium in the athletes? blood, and there are instances where it has had serious consequences.

A young man of 23 years of age was rushed to hospital, after going in to a coma, he was diagnosed with Hyponatremia, his sodium levels was dangerously low, and his brain was starting to swell, of course there is not much room available for the brain to swell, because it is surrounded by the hard skull, this causes the brain to be compressed and it does not like this one little bit.

Drinking too much water can flush out the essential nutrients and minerals and if you are drinking mineral water to excess, it can lead to high levels of calcium, magnesium or other minerals that is in the water. Some of these minerals are needed, but not in excess quantities.

A large number of water drinkers think that Natural Mineral Water is better for you health than the ordinary water that is supplied by your local authority.

I have written before about the dangerous concoction of chemicals that is put into the water supply, Fluoride, Chlorine and goodness knows what else, but please consider the following: Bottled water is frequently supplied in plastic bottles, this can give bacteria a very good environment for breeding, the water is sometimes taken from natural springs, no one knows what is in that water. You will think that this natural mineral water would be fresh, but, when you consider that it has been in the warehouse, before being shipped to the supermarket, some of these waters come from various overseas countries, so by the time you purchase the water off the supermarket shelf, it could be anywhere up to two years old. Does that make you think?

My personal way of having water is by the use of a rainwater tank, the rain comes from the sky, falls on the roof picks up some dust and probably some bird droppings on the way to the tank. I therefore recommend that the tank is cleaned out on a timely basis, also that a quality filter is fitted in the supply line and that the water is boiled before drinking I use it for drinking water, tea, coffee and for cooking purposes only. Not all local authorities will allow you to have a rainwater tank, but if they do, I honestly feel that even though this is not perfect, it is the best quality water that you are going to get. In today?s environment.

Look upon drinking water as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, rather than as something that you have to do every day. Some days you will drink more than on others, if its hot, you will want more, if its cold, you won?t be so keen and it will depend on just how thirsty you feel and how hard you are physically working.

My old Grandmother always said to me. ?Everything in moderation my boy? it is so true about drinking the essential water and almost everything else that you do in this life.

My websites can supply you with all the essential sugars, minerals and vitamins with Glyconutritionals, or Goji (Wolfberry) Juice.

Article by Alfred Jones
Glyconutritionals The essential sugars that heal.
Goji (Wolfberry) Juice, The health secret of the Himalayas
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http://gojijuice.atspace.com

Best Vitamin Supplements

2009-03-23T10:24:00.001+07:00

All vitamin supplements available in the market are not the same in terms of quality. Three basic types are available: tablets, capsules, and liquid form. Tablets are the most common, formed by mixing organic or inorganic binders and compressed into tablet form. They have poor absorption rate, often less than 30%. The absorption also depends on the quality of binders used. High-quality vitamin supplements use expensive organic binders, which makes their nutrients get absorbed in the upper intestinal walls straight into the blood stream.

Liquid vitamin supplements, claimed to have high-absorption rates, are available in a wide range of flavors. However, the claim that these are capable of effecting an almost 90% absorption must be regarded cautiously. They cannot be assumed to be better than tablets, since faster absorption is not the key issue, but better assimilation and optimum utilization of the nutrient for the body?s well being. Vitamins, when suspended or dissolved in a fluid, can become quite unstable. They cannot carry the enzymes in a usable form for more than a few hours. Hence, the nutrients get destroyed when they reach the stomach acids before they reach the upper intestine, where the highest absorption occurs. The same enzyme can be a useful, stable agent in a high-quality tablet vitamin supplement. However, people who have trouble with swallowing, as well as those for whom absorption of solids is difficult, have been observed to get good results with vitamin supplements in their liquid forms.

Natural foods are the best source of vitamins and nutrients, which work wonders for the body in a holistic manner. For example, natural vitamin E is clinically proven to be far more effective than synthetic vitamin E. Fortunately for the consumer, the nutraceutical industry has taken note of this and begun encapsuling and packaging nature?s best vitamins and nutrients, retaining their natural forms and making them available to the discerning vitamin seeker without the perils of chemicals, binding agents, and preservatives.

Vitamin Supplements provides detailed information on Vitamin Supplements, Natural Vitamin Supplements, Liquid Vitamin Supplements, Best Vitamin Supplements and more. Vitamin Supplements is affiliated with Multi Vitamins.

Simple Remarkable Tips to Treat and Prevent Heartburn

2009-03-22T16:41:00.001+07:00

Heartburn is caused by the build up of acids within the stomach, usually caused by specific foods that will then be regurgitated up into the esophagus. It causes discomfort in the chest area, near the breast bone. The pain rises into the neck area and into the throat.

In its worst cases, it?s burning and terribly painful. In some rare cases, though, the damage can be enough to cause cancerous cells to develop in this area. Others will suffer from painful inflammations that may also need their own treatment.

So, it?s essential to treat it well and even to find out how to prevent it.

Prevention is the best course

Out of every 100 patients that suffer from heartburn, 95 of them will know what is causing their heartburn before they get to their doctor. If you know what the cause of your heartburn, you cab stop it from hurting and destroying your quality of life. But, if you do not, you can easily learn about it.

Foods are the main trigger. Keep that in mind.

To find out which food, keep a journal of what you eat for several days. Yet, the longer you keep it, the better. Mark down the days when you get heartburn. Check out the kind of foods that you eat. Try to avoid them.

Yes, it?s as easy as that.

Some Important Treatment Options

One of the most common types of medications for heartburn is those that are called antacids. They work for about 25% of the people that take them. This may seem like a low number.

But these medications are ideal for use when you are experiencing lower levels of intensity in the heartburn. They are also a good choice for those that do not experience heartburn all of the time. These are usually purchased as over the counter medications and are made by many different distributors.

If those medications can?t help, the best thing to do is visit your doctor. Your doctor will prescribe medications that can actually turn off the acid producing pumps in your stomach. They will stop the heartburn from happening.

Take It Seriously

Many of those that are suffering from heartburn right now are actually experiencing more than just a little discomfort.

Chronic heartburn is a real problem. It can actually cause a lot of damage to your body?s internal organs. If you have them often, you might be harming your esophagus. Only your doctor can tell you the damage level.

If you have never had heartburn but are feeling it now for the first time and you are over the age of 40, you should contact your doctor right away.

If you have heartburn more than three times a week, you should seek get a professional help.

About the author: Riana Lance has a deep concern on health. That brings her to create essential tips on how to become healthier. Get her inspirational e-mail guides on Heartburn Treatments & Preventions at http://www.healthifica.com/reports/heartburn.php Also, grasp her other motivational health tips at http://www.healthifica.com, a worth-to-visit daily updated blog.

Body Odor and Constipation: What's the Big Stink About?

2009-03-21T22:13:00.001+07:00

Constipation occurs when waste material moves through the bowel too slowly. It is characterized as infrequent bowel movements and the passage of hard and painful stools.

Many people do not realize that constipation can cause body odor. The body releases toxins through emptying of the bowels. When your bowels are ?backed up,? the toxins may be released through the skin, thereby causing body odor. Remember the last time your toilet got backed up? I?m sure the smell wasn?t pleasant.

Other symptoms associated with constipation

Low abdominal pain

Flatulence and gas

Bad breath

Sallow skin

Vomiting

Fever

The best solution to eliminating constipation is a preventive regime. Constipation is prevented by exercise, high fiber diet and drinking lots of water. More aggressive but still safe and natural methods are enemas, stool softeners and dietary supplements.

Tap Water Enema

A very effective cleansing enema is a tap water enema. Tap water stimulates bowel activity through irritation of the lower bowel. Tap water is commonly used for adults and older children but should not be used for infants because of the danger of electrolyte imbalance. Seek the advice of your physician before administering a tap water enema to a child.

In order to use a tap water enema, you will need an enema bag kit. This can be purchased from your local pharmacy. Fill the bag with lukewarm tap water. Add a few shavings of a bar of white soap into the bag. Soap suds stimulate bowel activity. The soap should not have been previously used to prevent unwanted bacteria from entering the rectum. Shake the bag mixture, attach the tube that comes with the kit and insert into the rectum according to the kit?s instructions. Bowel movement should start within a matter of minutes.

Dietary Supplements

Dietary Supplements that aid in the digestion and cleansing of bowels are:

Garlic destroys harmful bacteria in the colon.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids has a cleansing and healing effect.

Chlorophyll Liquid eliminates toxins and bad breath.

Multienzyme Complex aids digestion.

Vitamin E helps heal the colon.

Aloe Vera heals and cleans the digestive tract and softens stools when
taken internally.

Ginger stimulates the digestive system and helps food pass through the
intestines.

Kaaryn Walker is an contributing editor of http://www.KidsHygieneAndHealth.com, a website offering causes, remedies and support about childhood hygiene and health related issues.

How to Increase Testosterone Naturally

2009-03-17T14:12:00.001+07:00

For some people, increasing testosterone by supplementing the body?s depreciated blood level with natural testosterone is preferable to increasing testosterone using synthetic testosterone.

To increase testosterone naturally is viewed by many as a much safer route over using synthetic testosterone.

Although potential side effects exist with almost every means to boost testosterone this does not mean the majority of people will suffer such side effects. We will first discuss prescriptions and then get into non-prescription methods.

As a side note, there are people who refer to some of these prescription methods as natural whereas other people believe natural testosterone has to come from such things as diet, herbs, and non-prescription means to get the body to manufacture more of its own testosterone.

Whatever you happen to believe, we will discuss all of these methods briefly in this article.

Using transdermal systems is now one of the most highly regarded ways to increase testosterone.

Transdermal patches that can be applied to areas of the skin is considered an effective approach to increase testosterone hormone. This is because as much as 92% of men tested for increasing testosterone this way received an adequate level of the hormone.

There are currently two types of patches on the market for increasing testosterone. One is applied to a shaved area of the scrotum. Testoderm is an example of this. The other way to use a patch is to stick it on the torso or appendages. Androderm is an example of this kind of testosterone.

Androderm is applied to the abdomen, lower back, thigh, or upper arm. For greatest effectiveness it should be applied at the same time every evening between 8 p.m. and midnight.

A scrotal patch is defined as non-permeable. Using Androderm to increase testosterone naturally is considered permeable. In effect, this consists of increasing testosterone by having the body absorb the testosterone into the bloodstream through the skin.

Another transdermal way of increasing testosterone is through the use of a testosterone cream. Testosterone cream is becoming more and more popular because it does not irritate the skin as much as patches or the other transdermal testosterone form, testosterone gel.

Testosterone cream is applied once every 24 hours increasing testosterone also through releasing testosterone into the bloodstream. This form of natural testosterone can be spread on different areas of the body including the upper arms, shoulders, thighs, and stomach area. Testosterone cream can only be used in eight week intervals before a break is required.

Transdermal gels are additional forms of testosterone delivery. To increase testosterone using gels apply once daily to the clean dry skin of the upper arms or abdomen. When increasing testosterone with gels it is important to allow them to dry before getting dressed. This form of testosterone must be spread on the body at least six hours before bathing or swimming.

A way to increasing testosterone that is not transdermal is to use injections of testosterone into the skin. This manner of increasing testosterone has a disadvantage: the blood level of testosterone varies with time. The way to deal with this is to administer the shots every two weeks to increase testosterone in as uniform a manner as possible.

Yet another method to increasing testosterone consists of implanting pellets under the skin. These pellets discharge constant time released dosages of natural testosterone increasing testosterone for a period of six months before having to be replaced. This form of boosting testosterone has the advantage of not needing to be fussed over on a daily basis.

An interesting form of boosting testosterone as an indirect method to increase testosterone naturally consists of using an herb called tribulus terrestris

Tribulus terristis has a long history of being used by many different cultures to treat sexual disorders. It does so by increasing a lesser sex hormone known as lutenizing hormone. Lutenizing hormone stimulates the pituitary gland to produce testosterone.

To increase testosterone naturally by using this method takes advantage of the body?s own physiological capacity for increasing testosterone. Many athletes and bodybuilders now use tribulus terrestris as a legal way to boost their testosterone levels without having to resort to illegal steroids.

Lastly is diet. Eating certain foods helps the body to increase testosteorne naturally. Some of the best foods to eat are oysters, eggs, beef, garlic, and broccoli.

Learn more about how to increase testosterone naturally and discover a natural testosterone boosting product with tribulus terrestris at http://www.testosterone-booster-guide.com

Wheatgrass For Anal Fissure A Medical Breakthrough

2009-03-15T19:04:00.001+07:00

Wheatgrass is a highly effective remedy for anal fissure.(AF)

An anal fissure is a split in the wall of the outer end of the anal canal, most often at the posterior or back side of the anus.

The main symptoms of AF are:

Pain and/or
Bleeding after or during a bowel movement.
The pain can often be severe and debilitating,
but blood loss is usually minor.

AF can take days or weeks to heal
spontaneously, but some can persist for many
years causing the patient substantial distress
and discomfort.

I have been treating anal fissure successfully with a wheatgrass-based cream since 1995. My success rate is greater than 85 percent. One of my patients suffered for 21 years and was relieved of her symptoms just two weeks after commencing wheatgrass therapy. Many others have avoided expensive surgery because wheatgrass healed their fissure.

Compared with standard pharmaceuticals, wheatgrass can lead to rapid resolution of symptoms and in time usually heals the fissure as well. Added benefits include absence of side effects and low cost.

I use a wheatgrass extract in a cream base and get the patient to apply a small amount just inside the anal canal twice daily.

Why wheatgrass works so well is a mystery, but it clearly contains a biological active(s) with powerful healing properties. Also, it is not clearly understood how fissures develop in the first place. I have rather different views to the standard teaching of the cause and treatment of anal fissure.

View many testimonials illustrating wheatgrass healing of anal fissure at http://www.drwheatgrass.com.au/testimonials/af/index.php

Please note: If you notice blood loss when you go to the toilet, and the cause has not been diagnosed, you should see your doctor immediately.

Dr. Chris Reynolds.
Born 1941. Perth, Western Australia.

Educated at Scotch College and John Curtin Senior High School. In 1957, joined British mercantile marine and travelled the world for seven years as a navigating officer before entering medical school at the University of Western Australia.

Graduated M.B.,B.S. (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) 1973. Spent most of professional career as a general practitioner in Perth and Melbourne except for four years working with refugees in Hong Kong and a year in Moscow with the International Organisation for Migration.

Currently works at a general practice for Japanese patients in Melbourne, Australia.

Special interests: dermatology, thalassemia and the immunomodulatory and therapeutic properties of wheatgrass.

Proactive Skin Care Approach

2009-03-15T12:45:00.001+07:00

It is easy to think my skin looks fine, I'll worry about it when I am older, but that is not a sound way to view the health of your skin. A proactive skin care approach is where you adopt a skin care regime to prevent premature aging of your skin before it starts, rather than having to 'fix' problems later.

If you think about it, why should you treat your skin any different from some other valuable asset like your car? Why do you get the car serviced? It is just because you want to spend some money, or is it because you need it and do not want expensive repair bills?

A proactive skin care approach is no different and investing in the health of your skin is the same as investing in health insurance, care maintenance, house insurance, etc. We brush our teeth several time as day, why? ? not because they have holes in them, but we want to prevent the holes and avoid expensive trips to the dentist...

We take our skin very much for granted and spend little time thinking about it. Maybe because of the many Skin Cancer Ad Campaigns, we will apply sunscreen lotion when going outside, but beyond that, we don?t seem to spend much time looking after our skin.

Similarly, a proactive skin care approach takes the quality of skin care products into consideration, however to often we buy skin care by smell and how good the packaging looks. Neither of which guarantees a quality product. On the contrary, often the expensive, good looking products contain artificial perfumes, synthetic essential oils, chemical emollients, preservatives, and many other ingredients that have been shown to be toxic if used over a long period of time.

Natural Skin Care Products are the only way to approach your skin care regime. Natural products, not just natural ingredients that have been added to an otherwise non-natural base, are a great way to take a proactive step towards promoting and maintaining healthy skin.

In addition to taking a proactive skin care approach, you should also consider doing the same with your diet. Foods that can benefit the skin will also benefit other parts of your body and promote healthy body tissues.

Similarly, exercise and other physical activity will promote blood circulation to the outer layers of your skin, providing it with nutrients and oxygen that will help in promoting the health of your skin.

So, a proactive skin care approach while there is nothing wrong with your skin is the best way to prevent problems from occurring later on.

Danny Siegenthaler is a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine and together with his wife Susan, a medical herbalist and Aromatherapist, they have created Natural Skin Care Products by Wildcrafted Herbal Products to share their 40 years of combined expertise with you.

Join our Natural Skin Care Newsletter ? it?s fun, free and Informative and you receive a free eBook on natural skin care.
? Wildcrafted Herbal Products 2004 - 2005

Acne: What You Need To Know Today

2009-03-12T20:54:00.001+07:00

Acne is a skin condition that has plagued teenagers and adults for centuries, and there are a lot of myths about what causes acne and how to cure it. The fact is we still don?t know exactly why some people suffer from acne and others don?t.

Basically, acne starts and pimples form because sebum gets blocked in the pores of your skin and bacteria begins to grow. Science doesn?t yet have a definite answer when it comes to acne causes, but several myths relate to eating junk food, stress, cosmetics, and exercise. Each of these things may be an acne cause, but not all doctors agree. The general consensus is that the strongest cause of acne is genetic, although these other factors may contribute to acne as well.

Adult Acne and Teenage Acne

Acne in teenagers is caused by the changes in hormone levels that occur as teens enter puberty. Not all adolescents experience teenage acne as they enter puberty, but many do. Most non-prescription acne products use ad campaigns that target teens, because teenage acne tends to have a great psychological impact on adolescents.

Adult acne is somewhat different, because it isn?t typically caused by hormonal changes. However, some women suffer from acne due to higher than normal levels of testosterone. Usually, adult acne is related to stress and diet, although these are not conclusive causes.

Natural and Alternative Acne Solutions

Consumers are always clamoring for natural solutions to medical problems, and acne natural treatments are no exception. There have been many suggested natural remedies used for acne treatment over the years, but recently some alternative methods have proved somewhat successful.

Some recent studies, for instance, have shown that acupuncture may help treat acne. Acupuncturists usually try to treat the root problems in the body, and acne happens to be a symptom caused by other factors such as hormonal imbalances. This why your acupuncturist may suggest a change in diet or some form of stress relief.

Tea tree oil has acquired a good reputation as a natural acne treatment too. As an acne solution, it helps kill the bacteria and cut down the amount of inflammation and redness on the skin. In some cases using tea tree oil can help traditional acne products penetrate deeper as well.

Home Acne Products

The most common home acne product available is benzoyl peroxide. This is the active ingredient in many acne treatments including Clearasil, ABY, AcneControl, and Proactiv Solution. It works by killing the bacteria that causes acne, and it also has a mild peeling effect which can reduce breakout and inflammation. Some sources say the bacteria can actually build up a resistance to benzoyl peroxide, making it less effective the longer you use it. Also, beware that a small percentage of people are allergic to benzoyl peroxide, and if you experience any excessive skin irritation when using it, you should try a different acne product.

Salicylic Acid is another common acne treatment that is the active ingredient in many home acne products. It works by unclogging the pores of your skin and works best when used in conjunction with an antibacterial agent like benzoyl peroxide. Some products such as Clearasil 3-in1, Neutrogena, and Proactiv Solution Deep Cleansing Wash use salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide together.

A trip through the Health and Beauty section of most grocers will supply you with plenty of options for acne products that contain these ingredients. The best acne solution may be to develop a regimen that cleans your skin, unclogs your pores, and kills acne causing bacteria. Choose your acne products based on this daily regimen.

Martin Stephens is a professional author and speaker who is constantly researching new treatment methods for acne. Part 2 of this article is available at http://acne-treatment-steps.com Part 2 discusses natural health treatments

The Truth About Home Made Facials

2009-03-12T17:46:00.001+07:00

I started making facial masks after reading several books on natural cosmetics. Common ingredients used in home made facials are eggs, lemon, milk, honey, cucumber, tomato, essential oils and lots more fruits, herbs and other ingredients.

The assumption I had was that home made cosmetics, being all natural and preservative free were much safer than the commercial masks you found in stores. A wrong assumption. You know the saying. Never assume anything. It makes an ASS of U and ME. Did you know some of the deadliest poisons on earth are 100% natural?

There are complaints about preservatives irritating the skin and all that. That may be true especially for a person with very sensitive skin. But preservatives actually make cosmetics safe to use. Preservatives kill or at very least, inhibit the bacteria, mold, viruses and nasty things that would otherwise thrive in the cosmetics we use. Commercial preparations usually contain some preservative or other to make these products safe for use. Some of the very high end cosmetic formulations are packed in sterile capsules to do away with or at least, minimimize, the need for preservatives.

If you make your own skin care for use later in the week, chances are, unless you are anal about sterilizing everything and freezing every batch once it has cooled, thawing it only when you are going to use it, and keeping your cosmetics away from the raw meat in the freezer, eventually, you could find yourself using contaminated home made cosmetics, which could lead to a skin irritation.

I used to make my own skin care but found all the precautions I had to take such a hassle, now I buy mine off the shelves.

Even if you make your facial products for immediate use, you have to be careful about using only the freshest ingredients. A mouldy fruit or anything that is spoilt can lead to disastrous results on your skin.

Then there is the safety of the ingredients used in your skincare products.

I once told a pharmacist about the lemon remedy I was using on my pimples. She was horrified. Lemons are highly acidic. Lemon juice is pH 2. Sulphuric acid is pH 1. Lemons can cause a nasty acid burn if you are not careful.

We had a discussion about this. She told me about a customer who showed up with an acid burn. Turns out, she had a sunburn. Back in Australia, she would soothe that sunburn by rubbing cut cucumber over her skin. The juices would ease the sunburn. This time around, she was unlucky. The cucumber she used was more acidic than the ones she was used to and she ended up with a really nasty acid burn.

Though cucumber is soothing, cucumber contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids as do most fruit and some of the other ingredients used in homemade beauty recipes.

You see, in home made skin care, the exact chemical makeup of the ingredients you use may vary, leading to unpleasant results if you are unfortunate. That is why, everytime you make any facial mask, test it on the inside of your wrist first, before you let that mask touch your face.

I was lucky. The lemon facial I did helped clear my skin by killing the bacteria, without burning my skin. The pharmacist said I was fool hardy. As did my cousin who has been making her own beauty products for years already.

Lemon can thin the skin. It is so acidic. The pharmacist thought the other things, like the almond meal I mixed with the lemon juice helped neutralize the extreme acidity. Also, when I used freshly squeezed lemon juice directly on my face, I would dilute it with water first.

Yet the books I read with home made beauty recipes often include lemon in their recipes. After all, lemon has lightening properties. Lemon juice is often used to lighten freckles. Lemon was even recommended in a book by a former model, for use as a toner.

Not all ingredients are that dangerous though. Oats is an excellent ingredient for use in soothing facials. That was recommended to me by a doctor. For my toddler's rash. Cooked oats in a bag in the bath water is a home remedy to soothe itchy skin. Here is a facial that uses oats and rose water. http://www.womanht.com/facials/RoseOatsFacial.htm

A home made face mask can be as simple as putting some mash fruit your face. Fruity facials tried and tested outlines such experiments with fruit.

Different skin types require different ingredients. Dry skin can use richer, nourishing ingredients. Really dry skin would love the moisturizing effect of sweet almond oil or olive oil. Oily skin, on the other hand would break out in pimples if you try massaging these oils on your face. What works for your best friend may be disastrous on you.

The easiest thing to do nowadays is to simply buy a great mask for your skin type off the shelf for your home facial. I use commercial masks these days after some disastrous experiments trying to find new ingredients for new home made facial masks for my site. The successful facials were published with at http://www.womanht.com/facials/.

The writer is the writer of the articles in Home Made Facials.

Arthritis Drugs Is the Cure Worse Than the Disease?

2009-03-11T14:33:00.001+07:00

Research is always ongoing into new and better medications for arthritis which is a very good thing. But where is all this leading us?

Of course we need effective pain medication for arthritis to enable sufferers to live normal lives. But are all these expensive medications controlling the disease or simply masking the symptoms?

Here?s a ?quick and dirty? lowdown on what?s currently available both ?over the counter? (OTC) and on prescription only.

For mild cases of arthritis -

Some milder cases of arthritis never make it into the doctor?s surgery. Indeed the sufferer might not even be aware that they are suffering from arthritis at all. They may be feeling a few ?aches and pains? which they put down to old age or even the cold damp weather.

That may be all well and good, but even OTC medications can be dangerous if taken over a long period of time. The concept of ?more is better? can also happen if the pain gradually becomes worse. This can lead to serious side effects.

OTC medications include aspirin and ibuprofen. These medications can cause intestinal bleeding and kidney damage in large doses. Aspirin also destroys vitamin C in the body leading to lower immunity.

For More Advanced Arthritis-

By this stage most people have consulted their doctor. Prescription medication at this stage normally consists of the Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS. These do target the pain and inflammation of arthritis symptoms but have a range of side effects including stomach upset, abdominal pain, and ulcers.

People with high blood pressure, those with kidney problems and especially people who have heart problems are especially at risk with NSAIDS.

Enter the COX-2 inhibitors. These have been designed for people whose stomach problems cannot tolerate the above. Unfortunately the risks remain for chest pain, heart attack and stroke victims.

For Advanced Arthritis-

For those suffering extreme pain and swelling the medical profession brings out the heavy artillery - Corticosteroids. These drugs contain man made cortisone and can be injected directly into the affected joints or taken orally.

Long term use of these can produce sleep problems, weight gain, osteoporosis and loss of immunity. Also available to those for whom nothing else seems to work are Biologic Response Modifiers (Biologics). Biologics are derived from live sources, plants and animals and are not manufactured chemically. They are mainly used for sufferers of Rheumatoid Arthritis and are given intravenously or by injection. They can?t be taken in tablet form.

Biologics suppress the immune system which leaves people prone to infections. They are also very expensive and can?t be stored without freezing.

Also available mainly to Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers are Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) These work by stopping the immune system from attacking the joints. DMARDS may take up to three months to reduce symptoms but they do help to stop joint damage even though they can?t repair any previous damage.

Although these drugs are a boon to many, they work mainly at masking the symptoms of arthritis and can?t reverse the damage already caused. Most people thinks this is impossible, it isn?t!

Natural treatments for arthritis do exist and can significantly stop some cases of arthritis, relieve pain and inflammation and in some cases, reverse joint damage.

Definitely worth a try!

Find out about the healthy way to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and fibromylagia. Visit: http://www.natural-arthritis-medication.com and sign up for our 6 part course. Wendy Owen is a health researcher and author.

Acid Reflux Diet Recommendations

2009-03-10T14:39:00.001+07:00

An acid reflux diet typically restricts the intake of certain foods that are known to increase stomach acid. Some people even claim that there are foods that ?cure? the syndrome.

You can currently find for sale acid reflux diet books, alongside other popular diets and cookbooks. One author states that apples ?cured? his acid reflux. He is now selling a report in which he details ?three natural remedies? for acid reflux.

These are supposed to be foods that cured his acid reflux. He does admit, however, that they may not work for everyone. In our opinion, it may be more effective in the long run to design your own acid reflux diet, using a food and symptoms diary to record what foods seem to trigger symptoms.

Natural remedies for acid reflux include changing the foods you commonly eat and even when you eat, how much you eat, and in what circumstances you eat. Such changes, believe it or not, may be effective for reducing symptoms of acid reflux.

Most doctors and other healthcare professionals recommend that in order to control symptoms, an acid reflux diet should exclude certain foods that are known to increase stomach acid. Tomatoes and citrus fruits, for example, are highly acidic. So is chocolate. And fried or fatty foods can also increase stomach acid and worsen symptoms.

You may think that an acid reflux diet must be bland, but while some spices trigger symptoms, some commonly used cooking herbs are considered natural remedies for acid reflux.

Changing from garlic and chili powder to ginger, fennel seed and turmeric may help. Ginger, fennel seed and turmeric were used in traditional medicine to treat indigestion and heartburn. Modern herbalists have combined some of these ?herbs for heartburn? to create natural remedies for acid reflux.

In addition to following an acid reflux diet that limits highly acidic foods, experts say that eating less than three hours before bedtime increases the likelihood that you will have nighttime symptoms.

This is because lying down after eating allows gravity to work against you and makes it easier for stomach acid to creep up into the esophagus. Knowing this, some companies sell wedge-type pillows calling them natural remedies for acid reflux, but some doctors who specialize in treating the syndrome maintain that these pillows may actually worsen symptoms by ?folding? the stomach.

These doctors recommend raising the head of the bed (with blocks, for example) 6 inches higher than the foot of the bed, so that gravity can still help keep acid in your stomach, without ?folding? and creating extra pressure on the stomach.

If it isn?t what you eat or when you eat, it could be how much you eat. An effective acid reflux diet plan may include several small meals every few hours throughout the day, rather than one or two large meals. The more food that is in the stomach, the more likely that acid will reflux.

Another one of the often suggested natural remedies for acid reflux is simply losing some weight. Extra pounds put extra pressure on the stomach and more acid creeps up. At night, this can lead to sleep disturbances, coughing, snoring and even sleep apnea.

Following an acid reflux diet plan that is low in fatty and fried foods and calls for meals every couple of hours is not only one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux, but it could help you lose weight since it primes the metabolism.

Doctors typically recommend antacids or proton pump inhibitors, at least for short-term use, to prevent or neutralize stomach acid. There are a number of herbal and botanical products that may do the some thing.

For example, mangosteen juice (a health drink), taken before meals, effectively dilutes stomach acid and may be considered one of the natural remedies for acid reflux. An acid reflux diet alone may not be enough. If not treated, acid reflux can lead to damage of the esophageal lining, which can lead to esophageal cancer.

Components of the mangosteen have been shown to reduce inflammation and actually prevent the formation of cancerous tumors in laboratory studies. Tell your doctor about which acid reflux diet and what natural remedies for acid reflux you are using and get regular check-ups, even if your symptoms seem to be under control.

Mike Leuthen is chief editor of http://www.restore-your-health.com. Visit us to learn more about natural remedies for acid reflux.

An Incredible New Weight Loss Product Your Brain!

2009-03-09T01:08:00.001+07:00

I would like to introduce you to an incredible new weight loss product: Your brain?

I discovered this technique for weight loss many, many years ago from a great New Thought teacher. When I posted it on a business forum last year, a member publicly thanked me for her weight loss a short time later.

I hope some of you will accept this and give it a try also.

To lose weight, here is a technique to use. As you drop off to sleep, repeat over and over again to your subconscious mind, your ideal weight (or your goal weight). For example, just repeat as you fall asleep, when your mind is most receptive to suggestion: 140 pounds?140 pounds?140 pounds.? In the waking state, an affirmation might be: I weigh 140 pounds in divine order or something similar. You will be conditioning your subconscious mind to accept your goal weight and it will compulsively guide you to do everything necessary to accomplish that result.

Am I qualified to make such a claim about this technique? I will let you decide. The photos you see of me that appear on my website were taken within the past couple of years and with some fluctuation, I have maintained this body for most of my life. I am healthy, trim, fit and look 20 years younger than my years. However, I come from a fat family. My mother wasn't overweight...she was obese, and when she died in the 80s, she was just a few years older than I am now. I won't give details about my younger sister - she's gone, too. And don't think I can't gain weight easily. Oh, yes I can, but my mind won't let me. It has been conditioned too well to keep me fit and healthy. I don't think about what I have to do to maintain that, it does it for me - I lift weights, I eat healthy foods and can indulge in fattening foods sporadically without repercussion. Automatic pilot. Will this technique work for you? I say?what have you got to LOSE? Body back guarantee.

The whole point of the subconscious conditioning is to bring our consciousness to the point of acceptance that we already are where we want to be. Then the subconscious is compulsive and will intuitively guide us to the right foods, exercise, whatever it takes to fulfill that vision. But we must give the mind the right message.

The subconscious mind technique does not replace your healthy eating habits. It creates them! That's the whole idea. The subconscious is the seat of habit. And of intuition. With the right mindset, your healthy eating habits will become just that - healthy habits - instead of the compulsively unhealthy ones.

When the imagination and the will are in conflict, the imagination always wins. - Emile Coue

This is not a diet. This is the natural way we are created to use our minds - constructively and in alignment with Universal laws.

So again, we use our minds to accept the idea, thought and picture of a fit, healthy person at his/her ideal weight. Once that idea is instilled in the mind, you will automatically be guided and directed to all that is necessary for you to fulfill that idea. You will just intuitively want the right foods and pass on the wrong ones. You will adopt the proper exercise habits. You will be guided to the right coach or nutritional information to manifest your subconscious idea. It must happen because that is the law - the nature of mind. Mind will always create according to the seed thought.

Speaking of exercise?in my opinion, one of the greatest exercises in the world for getting the metabolism in gear is putting on good cushiony running shoes, going outside and just walking fast -- a couple of miles of fast walking. Weight lifting is fantastic for replacing fat with muscle, and for heart and bones, especially for women. But I understand not everyone is into or ready to lift weights. And we still need that aerobic workout. So get outside and start walking. That's an addiction you will love to have. When you start releasing those endorphins, the whole world looks better.

Important Footnote:

If you have a lot of weight to lose, your subconscious mind may not be able to accept that you can be your ideal weight all at once. The important thing here is to not set up resistance or an argument in the subconscious. So the following is a good method to use to prevent this.

Pick a weight that you feel that you can accept at this time, one that feels believable. For example, if you now weight 180 pounds and your ideal weight is120, that's a very big leap of faith to accept. So you might use 150 pounds as the target number that you suggest to your subconscious mind as you fall asleep. That is more believable at this point in time and will be more readily accepted by the mind. When you do reach your goal of 150 pounds, you can then change your input to 120 pounds. You may also do this if you have to lose a lesser amount of weight.

The important thing to remember is that the information that is most believable will produce the fastest and greatest results. This same idea also applies to financial prosperity, but I will save that for another time. By the way, I have learned many of these things through brilliant new thought teachers, far ahead of their time. It is time for valuable esoteric knowledge to become mainstream. You can become your own case study in the meantime.

How's this for a marketing idea: Mental weight loss clinics called Brain Watchers International.? :)

Marilyn Jenett, an accomplished business owner in the corporate arena, founded the Feel Free to Prosper program to mentor and teach others to become aligned with Universal laws and accept their right to prosper. Her students, from around the globe and from all walks of life, are enjoying remarkable success using her lessons and participating in her telephone group sessions. For more information, check out her website at www.FeelFreetoProsper.com.

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print as long as the bylines, URL and copyright are included.? Please print the article in its entirety, unchanged and send a copy of the publication to marilyn@feelfreetoprosper.com.

Fats Explained

2009-03-08T02:10:00.001+07:00

Fats provide a concentrated store of energy in the body. Weight for weight they provide twice as much energy as do either carbohydrates or proteins. If you eat too much of any of these three basic food materials your body can store the surplus as fat. A lot has been said about the advantages of vegetable fats over animal fats. This is to over-simplify the problem.

The great change in the balance and quantity of fats in our diet this century has been away from the polyunsaturated fats and towards the hard or saturated fats. Usually animal fats and dairy fats are saturated. We are eating too much fat of all kinds and should reduce the total quantity we consume. After reducing the total quantity of fat we should reduce the saturated fat further and replace this with polyunsaturated fats.

These are found in grains and cereals especially Soya, maize or corn, sunflower, linseed, sesame and safflower. Some vegetable fats are quite saturated as the animal variety; examples of these, which should be taken only in moderation, are coconut and palm oils. There is much evidence, and the majority of nutritionists would support the view, that too much fat in the diet, especially if it is saturated, increases the chance of arteriosclerosis and heart attack.

In comparison, a moderate consumption of the polyunsaturated fats together with some saturated positively reduces the amount of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood and reduces the occurrence of thickening of the arteries. To increase your intake of polyunsaturated fats you can use soft margarine made with vegetable oils, and cook in the best oils such as corn or sunflower. If you eat meat, cut off the fat, which is saturated. Remember too, that cocoa butter is very saturated, so a lot of chocolate is not a good idea.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for some of the most common illnesses and health problems .

Lower Cholesterol Naturally

2009-03-07T02:41:00.001+07:00

How You Can Lower Your Cholesterol and Add Years to Your Life?Naturally

In a recent study; our natural product was proven to lower LDL or ?bad? cholesterol for participants with high LDL levels by an astounding 31%. Some participants reported decreases of up to 52%! Overall reductions, including those participants with fair or better LDL levels averaged over 20%.

What is equally amazing is that the average increase of HDL ?good? cholesterol in those participants with low HDL levels was 29%, with some achieving increases of up to 85%! Overall increases for those with normal HDL levels were 25%. (Keep in mind that statin drugs have little or no effect on good cholesterol.).

Your results may be dramatically enhanced if you take our natural product in combination with a healthy diet and exercise.

4 Different Ways?Naturally! We provide a natural supplement that combines all four of the known approaches to lowering harmful cholesterol. This proprietary comprehensive approach:
1. Helps to Block Re-absorption of Cholesterol in the Intestinal Tract
2. Helps to Block Absorption of Cholesterol Which Comes Directly From Food
3. Reduces the Cholesterol Produced by the Liver
4. Enhances Enzymatic Breakdown and Removal of LDL Cholesterol

The Sad Facts Are:

By the time you ﬁnish reading this paragraph, 1 in 3 Adults will die from Cardiovascular Disease. Someone in the United States will die from cardiovascular disease. In fact, by the end of the day, cardiovascular disease will kill 3,500 Americans.

What?s more, by the end of the year, more than 1.3 million people will die with cardiovascular disease as the underlying or contributing cause of death. Imagine the entire population of a city the size of Philadelphia or Phoenix dying every year from cardiovascular disease.

This isn?t recent news. For the last one hundred years, cardiovascular disease has been the number one killer in America. Chances are good that if you have two best friends, one of the three of you will die from this disease.

Unfortunately, in many cases the ﬁrst indication that there?s a problem with your cardiovascular system is death.

The Dangers of the Traditional Medical Approach to Lowering Cholesterol

The medical community typically treats the problem of high cholesterol by prescribing drugs called statins. Statin drugs work by slowing the body?s production of cholesterol. However, there?s a downside to statins.

Because statins are a synthetic drug (not natural), they may produce dangerous side effects. In fact, unknown to the public and even most doctors, the side effects of statin drugs can be life threatening.

The Statin Effects Study, conducted by the University of California, San Diego, warns that statin side effects include possible liver and muscle damage?the most common and well known side effects.

However, this study also lists lesser known side effects of statins:
? Changes in memory, attention, or concentration
? Depression and irritability
? Pain
? Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness or burning pain)
? Other side effects: Sleep problems, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, dizziness and a sense of detachment are also reported with these drugs. Additionally, people have mentioned experiencing swelling, shortness of breath, vision changes, changes in temperature regulation, weight change, hunger, breast enlargement, blood sugar changes, dry skin, rashes, blood pressure changes, nausea, upset stomach, bleeding, and ringing in ears or other noises.

The Solution

Attention to diet, exercise, weight control, andmanagement of stress are imperative. An active,preventive lifestyle remains the primary force in theprevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Itall comes down to you and your personal choices.

There?s a direct undeniable relationship between thecholesterol levels in your body and the chances thatyou?ll develop cardiovascular disease. In fact, it couldbe said that high cholesterol is cardiovascular disease.

You have a choice today to start taking a natural supplement That may be the biggest factor in determining the quality and quantity of your life.

To Learn more about our Natural Solutions you can contact me at: Ron.th@verizon.net

An Intimate Approach to Beauty

2009-03-07T00:50:00.001+07:00

An Intimate Approach to Beauty

In this article we return to a time when beauty was defined in natural terms. An almost time-forgotten sensual approach to self-care, with simple rituals that will pamper you from the inside out. Where beauty was within every woman and man?s reach and where sometimes, just sometimes less is more.

Dare to be Bare

From time to time leave your skin bare. No make-up, foundations or facial care products that contain chemicals. Know your Skin

Maintaining your skin's moisture balance is essential for overall skin health. However, generally, moisturizers do not replace the essential water needed in skin cells. It is therefore important to leave your skin damp to help your moisturizer or cream penetrate deeper into your skin.

If your skin is oily, you may discover that you do not even need a moisturizer. Even acne prone individuals should not over-wash their skin. Dry skin can actually make the condition worse.

Furthermore, most cleansers and toners with alcohol tend to dry the skin, creating the sensation of needing a moisturizer.

Something as simple as drinking more water will help your skin, nails, your whole well being feel better. All natural, soaps should also be an important element in your skin care regime. These handcrafted soaps maintain its glycerin, which is a water-binding agent. Water-binding agents keep water in the skin, which aids skin damaged by sun and dehydration.

Good Cleansing

Soaps and scrubs should not strip the natural moisture from the skin; instead, these products should help the skin to find its balance as well as enhance your skin?s natural inner glow.

The ideal formulation should help to hydrate the skin so that during cleansing your skin can absorb adequate molecules of water into the cells.

Organic Oats Honey Lavender Facial Scrub is a classic quartet for the face. Its formulation contains organic oats to gently slough off dead skin cells, organic honey to nourish the skin while organic lavender essential oil helps to reduce inflammation.

Create a Bathing Ritual

Water has a healing power for many of us. Just the thought of the vast expanse of clear blue water will tend to relax the inner you. Creating a bathing ritual can offer you the same many physical and mental benefits.

Even cool summer baths can let a fresher you emerge. Surround yourself with nothing but soft candlelight, soothing sounds of nature and sink deep into cool relaxation. Select Citrus bath fizzy to sharpen the senses and restore energy or Lemongrass bath fizzy to relieve exhaustion and fatigue.

The Healing Power of Touch Include a full-body massage with warm oil to your bathing ritual. A body massage can help to increase the firmness of the skin and can even reduce physical and mental fatigue.

A warm Spirit Body Oil will help lift your spirits and nourish the layers of your skin. Spirit Body oils are nothing more than pure plant oils that purify the skin; enhance the complexion and make you feel more attractive.

http://www.anaturalperspective.com is The Place for natural, holistic and organic skincare products.

http://www.anaturalperspective.com sources different skin care products with an emphasis on promoting your well-being. A Natural Perspective brings you all-natural beauty products especially formulated to help bring back your skin to its beautiful, natural balance. You will feel the difference!

Join our Natural Beauty Newsletter. Monthly beauty tips, promotions and articles.

Lowering Cholesterol Naturally: It Is Still The Best Approach

2009-03-06T21:35:00.001+07:00

When we were kids my brother used to say, Do drugs. I think he was kidding.

The truth is using drugs has become an epidemic. I don?t just mean illegal drugs. You and I both know that prescription drugs are widely abused in our culture. The first line of defense for many people is to reach for the medicine cabinet.

The television commercials don?t help either. The pharmaceutical companies have taken their message to the airwaves. We are now encouraged to ask our doctor if Brand-X is right for us.

I am standing on my soapbox a bit here. But my complaint is not against the many medicines that are available to help restore us to health. My complaint is against using drugs when there are better alternatives.

Lowering cholesterol naturally may still be your best option in the war against heart disease.

The third report of the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) agrees with me on this. Actually it would be better to say that I agree with ATP III. What does ATP III recommend?

Actually ATP III recommends the same approach you have probably heard many times before. The recommendation is to make changes to your lifestyle. At the very core of these changes we find the subject of diet.

Why diet? Because what we eat ? and don?t eat ? has a strong influence on how our bodies handle cholesterol. For example?

ATP III recommends that 25-35% of our total daily calories be composed of fat. To me that seems like a lot of fat. However, less than 7% of the total should be composed of saturated fat. You want to reduce cholesterol? A good place to start is to cut down on your saturated fat intake.

Saturated fats negatively influence LDL cholesterol levels. Most cholesterol management focuses on lowering LDL cholesterol. Saturated fats cause LDL levels to rise. So every time we grab that burger on the run ? and I love a good burger ? we are making it more difficult for our bodies to keep our LDL levels down.

While we are on the subject of fats we should mention trans-fats. How much of our daily caloric intake should be composed of trans-fats? 0%!

Trans-fats are a different breed. They are actually not saturated fats at all. In fact they are polyunsaturated fats that have been pushed toward saturation by a process called hydrogenation. Structurally they are still unsaturated. However they act very differently in our bodies than do other naturally occurring fats.

Many researchers have implicated trans-fats in the heart disease epidemic of the 1990s. That is a loud message. It is a message that tells us to stay away.

How do you know if you have trans-fats in the foods you eat? Read the labels. Unfortunately food labels do not list trans-fats unless to say the product contains none. Look instead for the phrase ?partially hydrogenated?. You might be surprised how many of the products in your panty contain partially hydrogenated oils.

Now for some good news about fats.

ATP III recommends that up to 30% of your caloric intake be in the form of polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats ? in most cases - do not have the same negative influence on cholesterol as do saturated fats and trans-fats.

And just like those commercials that promise you more if you buy now? there is more to unsaturated fats than merely not having a negative influence on cholesterol.

Take omega-3 for example. Omega-3 fatty acids are among the essential fatty acids that can actually improve your cholesterol profile. Among other things, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to?

? raise HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol)
? reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol)
? lower triglycerides
? reduce blood platelet stickiness

You can get more omega-3 through certain vegetative sources like broccoli and flax seeds. But the more potent forms are found in cold-water fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna.

If eating fish everyday is not an option for you try omega-3 supplements. There are some that do not produce a fishy aftertaste and contain no metal pollutants.

Reducing your intake of saturated fats and increasing unsaturated fat consumption is one way to lower cholesterol naturally. So before you ask your doctor if Brand-X is right for you, consider making changes to your lifestyle. A grilled tuna sandwich may not be as readily available as that burger that has been sitting under the heat-lamp for three hours, but it may help you reduce your risk for heart disease. Got Fish?

For more information on natural cholesterol management please use the links below:

Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes

Cholesterol Management and Omega-3

Optimal Heart Health Home Page

Optimal-Heart-Health.com is dedicated to promoting heart health by natural means. If you are concerned with doing everything you can to have a healthy heart then you don?t want to be uninformed.

Product Review: Natural Shea Body Bar

2009-03-06T02:18:00.000+07:00

The Shea Body Bar from The Natural Newborn arrived packaged tightly in a draw string bag, and my first thought was how great it smelled. I chose Frozen Margarita, but there are other choices on the website. Ingredients and reordering information were on the side of the package, making it easy for me to order this fantastic soap again.

I was amazed how great this soap really was! Not only is it natural, but it lathers well and leaves skin extremely soft. There's no film left on your skin like other natural soaps leave. It also is a natural white, leaving out unnatural dyes or color additives.

The Natural Newborn specializes in natural baby products. However, they have an excellent line of products for toddlers and moms as well. The Shea Body Bar I had the pleasure of trying out is currently listed under Handcrafted Soaps.

On their website you'll also find Mommy's Mini Spa, which has products such as facial care, body care, and other products just for mom. Under Toddler Tub you'll see items such as hand soaps, skin & body care, bug repellents, and other items for toddlers or older children.

For details on all the wonderful items The Natural Newborn offers, visit http://thenaturalnewborn.com

About the Author: Kara Kelso is the owner of Mom's Market, a family friendly shopping directory featuring product reviews. For more reviews, please visit: http://www.momsmarketonline.com

Hair Care Home Remedies

2009-03-06T01:34:00.000+07:00

Save money and give yourself a break from the chemicals found in most hair care products by using the following natural home remedies.

Tame your frizzy hair by rubbing coconut oil into your hands and applying sparingly onto your hair. You don't want to overdo it - too much will make your hair look greasy. Shampooing your hair less frequently also helps with the frizzies. Excess shampooing strips natural oils from the hair.

Rinse your hair with one tablespoon baking soda mixed with one cup of water to get rid of shampoo build-up and styling residues.

Rinsing your hair with one juiced lemon and one cup of water is said to bring life and shine back to dull hair.

1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with two cups of water will give your hair shine and bounce.

Add essential oil of ylang ylang to your shampoo, conditioner and styling agents as a hair rejuvenator.

Ylang ylang and rosemary essential oils are also believed to stimulate hair growth.

Drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of raw fruits and vegetables and getting plenty of rest is probably the best way to achieving healthy hair.

What goes into your body is reflective on the outside including your hair.

Elizabeth Kiely is the owner of EK Shower Caps: http://www.EKLBC.com

Which Essential Oil Is Right For Me?

2009-03-05T22:36:00.000+07:00

Here is a list of different essential oils that are used in bath and body recipes.

Choose an essential oil that suits your skin requirements you can always substitute you essential oil ingredients for ones that are more suitable, more affordable or simply to one that you may already have

Lavender Essential Oil - Headaches, stress, insomnia, minor burns, skin rashes, lowers blood pressure. Calmative. Basil Essential Oil- Anti bacterial, headaches, mental alertness, fatigue, stress, Period pains (Blends well with lemon and fennel).

Lemon Essential Oil- Cellulite, oily skin, anti bacterial, asthma and other respiratory complaints.

Patchouli Essential Oil - Tightens pores, combats wrinkles, Mobilizes cellulite, stress reliever, insomnia, relaxant, acne, eczema, psoriasis, sores and minor burns (Blends well with lavender and sandalwood).

Sandalwood Essential Oil- Calms the mind and spirit, oily skin, soothes irritated skin, and is an aphrodisiac for men. (Blends well with lavender and sandalwood).

Spearmint Essential Oil- Soothes the skin, calmative, and settles upset tummies.

Lemon Grass Essential Oil- Skin toner, oily skin, fatigue, muscle aches and gastric infections-(Blends well with tea tree and lavender).

Tea Tree Essential Oil- Anti- fungal, acne, skin toner. (Blends well with spearmint, sandalwood, lavender, and eucalyptus).

Juniper Berry Essential Oil - Cellulite, uplifting (Blends well with lavender, patchouli and sandalwood).

Fennel Essential Oil - Diuretic, circulation. Cleansing oil, indigestion and gas. (Blends well with lavender, lemon, basil and sandalwood).

Cypress Essential Oil- Diuretic, varicose veins, circulation, coughs and colds. (Blends well with lavender, sandalwood and patchouli)

This Article was written by Shellie Wilson co/founder of Craftbits.com

Visit http://www.CraftBits.com for 1000's of Free Step by Step Craft Lessons

Enter to win free craft prizes or browse around our 1000's of Free Craft Projects.

Participate in a worldwide craft swap or just get some free craft advice or read an article.

For more free craft resources visit http://www.CraftBits.com

Organic Foods

2009-03-05T18:13:00.000+07:00

In your quest for health I am sure by now you have heard of organic foods. There are many different ways to define ?organic?. As of October, 2002, the USDA has implemented a certification for all organic foods, which Wikipedia defines as the following:

?Organic certification is a certification process for producers of organic food and other organic agricultural products. In general, any business directly involved in food production can be certified, including seed suppliers, farmers, food processors, retailers and restaurants. Requirements vary from country to country, and generally involve a set of production standards for growing, storage, processing, packaging and shipping that include:

?avoidance of synthetic chemical inputs (e.g. fertilizer, pesticides, antibiotics, food additives, etc) and genetically modified organisms;

?use of farmland that has been free from chemicals for a number of years (often, three or more);

?keeping detailed written production and sales records (audit trail);

?maintaining strict physical separation of organic products from non-certified products;

?undergoing periodic on-site inspections.

Certified organic producers are also subject to the same agricultural, food safety and other government regulations that apply to non-certified producer. Being able to put the word organic on a food product is a valuable marketing advantage in today's consumer market. Certification is intended to protect consumers from misuse of the term, and make buying organics easy. However, the organic labeling made possible by certification itself usually requires explanation.

In the US, federal organic legislation defines three levels of organics. Products made entirely with certified organic ingredients and methods can be labeled 100% organic. Products with 95% organic ingredients can use the word organic. Both may also display the USDA organic seal. A third category, containing a minimum of 70% organic ingredients, can be labeled made with organic ingredients. In addition, products may also display the logo of the certification body that approved them. Products made with less than 70% organic ingredients can not advertise this information to consumers and can only mention this fact in the product's ingredient statement. Similar percentages and labels apply in the EU.?-Wikipedia

Things have certainly changed in the field of organic foods and we should be encouraged but also cautious at the same time. The words ?natural? and ?authentic? are being put on labels of foods and supplements and should not be misinterpreted as ?organic?. This being said, we need to be diligent in learning the facts and reading the labels very carefully! As you will see very soon if not already, some of the commercial grocery store chains are starting to tout their ?organic? sections, but remember to read those labels. Quite often there is not a clear separation of certified organic foods and commercial foods in these stores.

Super store Wal-Mart even announced last month that it would greatly expand its organic products nationally. We shouldn?t be surprised at that since the $15 billion organic industry has grown at least 20% annually for the past 15 years, according to the Organic Trade Association. Consumers' awareness and demand is now there, says Howard Solganik, a consultant. The big retailers now believe they can sell reasonable quantities of organics.

These changes leave long time organic grocery chain Whole Foods executives excited yet concerned. This is the final sign that we're not a fad, says Walter Robb, co-president of Whole Foods 185 stores in 30 states. But he adds: They're chasing our shadow. We won't be tomorrow what we are today. He may very well be correct. If consumers start buying in commercial stores thinking that their new ?organic sections? are all safe foods, they may be sorely mistaken. The incentive to buy at the commercial stores is obvious. There are more of them and based on their high volume, they are able to get better deals on pricing. The problem is, these stores will most likely be buying products from large manufacturers who are also trying to cash in on the rising healthy food demand.

What that means is, you may see more natural ?wonder bread? type products out there, so make sure you are reading labels to ensure that these products still line up with what your body needs. As an example, I tell patients to eat whole wheat breads but many types of bread out there are labeled as wheat but still enrich and bleach their flour so you need to read the labels carefully and look for those key words.

Enriching involves the stripping out of over 40 vitamins and minerals while putting back three B vitamins and iron, typically. Hardly enriching by my definition! Bleaching is just as it sounds, pouring bleach in with the dough. The food industry can give as many reasons as they desire to explain why they bleach, but the truth is, its BLEACH! Would you pour it on your full dinner plates at home? Also, these breads which say they are made from ?wheat? may use hydrogenated oil and high fructose corn syrup. Hydrogenated oil is the worst oil you could give your body and high fructose corn syrup is not much different when absorbed chemically in the body as white sugar or sucrose.

I know you are striving for excellence, and for that I applaud you! Make sure you take all the information in this article to heart. This true info is being shared with you to prevent your body from failing, so apply it into your lifestyle! Keep up the good work, and I will speak to you again soon.

In health,

Thomas Von Ohlen, MS

Thomas Von Ohlen is a clinical nutritionist and developer of Plasma Pro software for doctors. In his 15 years in private practice he has helped thousands of people, from all over the world, achieve their health goals through education and product recommendations. His FREE newsletter is available at http://www.healyourbodynow.com

Beauty Basics Eight Tips For Naturally Beautiful Hair

2009-03-05T02:08:00.000+07:00

Looking for a more natural approach to hair care? Here are some tips to help your hair look and feel its best.

1. Avoid shampoos that contain sodium laurel sulfate, or sodium laureth sulfate. These chemicals are synthetic detergents that are used in dishwashing liquid and other cleansers. They are valued because they lather well, but they are very harsh, and can dry out your hair. Instead, look for shampoos made with decyl glucose, or decyl glucoside, which are much gentler.

2. Give yourself a hot oil treatment to deep condition your hair. Warm oil penetrates the hair shaft making the hair more flexible and giving it shine. This can also help to prevent split ends which result from dry hair.

3. Eat right and consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements to encourage healthy hair. Several vitamins and minerals have been shown to help hair growth and condition including biotin, vitamin E, vitamin B, vitamin C and MSM.

4. If you are an African American, or if you have extra curly hair, avoid brushing your hair. Use a wide toothed comb, or your fingers to work with your hair. Brushes can destroy African American or extra curly hair by shearing it out of the scalp.

5. Look for essential oils, herbs and vegetable oils in your hair care products. Essential oils such as rosemary, ylang-ylang and west indian bay help to stimulate hair growth. Lavender and tea tree and naturally antiseptic and help to fight dandruff. Vegetable oils such as soybean oil, safflower oil and corn oil are moisturizing and conditioning to the hair shaft.

6. Avoid sleeping in hair accessories such as barrettes, scrunchies, head bands, etc. This can lead to hair damage.

7. Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth. Massaging helps stimulate hair growth by increasing the blood flow to the scalp. This nourishes the hair roots and helps to stimulate the hair growth process.

8. If your hair ends are damaged, give yourself a trim every so often to remove damage.

Ololade Franklin publishes Making Good Scents(TM), a newsletter for people who make their own bath and body care products. For information about Making Good Scents(TM) visit http://www.MakingGoodScents.com

Are You Suffering from EventTriggered Insomnia?

2009-03-04T02:28:00.001+07:00

When we think of the sleepless nights that we?ve had, we can usually figure out what?s caused them. Those who suffer from actual insomnia, however, don?t always understand what has brought it about, although the evidence is usually fairly clear. Insomnia, the inability to sleep, affects millions of people around the world. While it?s often caused by either physical catalysts or surfaces as the result of psychological problems, it isn?t limited to those two trigger areas. In many cases, this type of sleeplessness comes about as the result of a specific event.

In the case of event-triggered insomnia, you might naturally come to the conclusion that this is caused by a significant occurrence, such as the loss of a loved one or a physical trauma that was suffered. In reality, insomnia can be spawned by something as small as a change in the weather pattern. As unlikely as it may seem, events that we perceive as insignificant ? or even those that we don?t recognize ? can be at the root of our sleepless nights.

While most people work during the day and sleep at night, there are many who have to change their sleeping habits to include a daytime sleep pattern, since they work an overnight shift. Since this goes against the body?s natural tendency, the result can be insomnia. The same effect might be brought about by working overly long hours ? especially if that?s outside of the normal pattern.

Traveling can wreak havoc with your health on many levels, but when changing time zones ? especially if those changes are significant ? the body has no chance to adjust to its new pattern and is expected to sleep when the clock strikes a certain hour. It can take a few days for the body to make such adjustments and, in the meantime, may suffer from insomnia.

You may have noticed that, on the side of some medicine bottles ? especially those that are of the over-the-counter variety ? the warning label states that it may cause excitability. What this really means is that you may end up suffering from sleeplessness as a result of taking that particular medication. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have a history of insomnia, and ask if there?s a medication that doesn?t list this as a side effect. There are often alternative medicines that are designed to eliminate certain effects, and excitability may be one of them.

Of course, it?s fairly common knowledge that drinking a cup of coffee before going to bed isn?t the best idea, but tea also has a great deal of caffeine, as does chocolate, soda and certain cough and cold medicines. Try to avoid ingesting any of these items when evening comes along, in order to ensure a good night?s rest.

For those who are away from home, there?s typically no need to be overly concerned if you find that you?re having trouble sleeping. A change in surroundings is one of the most common triggers of insomnia, as is any other significant environmental change ? such as noise, temperature or lighting. If you?re the type of person who?s used to sleeping in a very dark room with a fan blowing on you to provide both coolness and background noise, then you?re most likely going to experience trouble sleeping if you find yourself in an environment that offers light coming in through the windows, total silence and a significant variation in temperature. Any type of external pattern that?s changed can cause insomnia to rear its ugly head.

Whenever sleeplessness becomes a problem, don?t take matters into your own hands for long. If it persists, contact your physician for a complete exam and to discuss the possible causes and treatments. Sleep deprivation can cause serious health problems and shouldn?t be dismissed as simply a phase that you?re going through.

Find out more about insomnia and how you can restore healthy sleep naturally by visiting http://www.curing-insomnia.com

Effective Dietary Supplements for Arthritis Sufferers

2009-03-03T22:31:00.000+07:00

The effective popular dietary supplements for arthritis sufferers are chondroitin, fish oil and glucosamine. Chondroitin can draw fluid into the cartilage, improving shock-absorbing ability and weight control, as more weight equals more joint pressure. Fish oils help with controlling inflammation in the body. And recent studies have shown that the cartilage-building substance called glucosamine is effective for the long-term relief of osteoarthritis pain. In some people, glucosamine appears to even slow the deterioration of joints over time and reinforce joint cartilage. Whether or not it can actually reverse the disease is still unclear. In some instances, glucosamine can be used in conjunction with MSM, a substance that appears to slow down the degeneration but is not yet proven and approved.

In a nutshell:

? Chondroitin - Helps draw fluid into cartilage, improving shock-absorbing ability.

? Ginger ? Ginger is an antioxidant that acts as an inflammatory with no major side effects.

? Glucosamine sulfate ? This builds cartilage with very few side effects.

? Magnets ? Although magnets that are worn as jewelry or placed on bed linens have been reported by some to be effective pain relievers, results are still preliminary; doctors claim that these magnets are not strong enough.

? MSM - This organic sulfur is used in the reduction of inflammation.

? Nettle leaf - Nettles can reduce a patient?s need for NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) by up to 70 percent.

? Vitamin E ? This antioxidant is used primarily for osteoarthritis.

? Vitamin B is also an effective pain reliever. It works best on the knee and can help stop degeneration that is caused by free-radical molecules, not only in the joints but in other areas of the body as well

These are merely a few examples of what an arthritis sufferer can use when seeking pain relief from natural remedies. However, due to the lack of scientific study and testing on many of these alternate treatments, there is no proof of their effectiveness.

Nothing can cure osteoarthritis, but nutritional supplements, the application of heat or cold to affected joints, exercise, and weight loss can improve the function and flexibility of your joints, and perhaps even slow the progress of the disease. Conventional over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can be very helpful in decreasing joint pain, but they do produce side effects and can cause problems in long-term users.

Unfortunately, there is no way to cure arthritis. However, you can delay the onset by maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise regularly and eat a healthy and avoid repetitious movements that cause you pain.

Dhiraj is an arthritis pain relief and treatment researcher. He offers advice and tips and a broad range of alternative solutions for arthritis and pain related issues.

Alternative and Natural Healing Methods Grow in Popularity

2009-03-03T17:56:00.001+07:00

After years of being ostracized by conventional medicine, alternative and natural healing methods have gained popularity with America's over-drugged population.

According to a recent study of 18 major HMOs and insurance providers, 14 offered at least 11 of 34 alternative therapies or natural healing methods. Of the most frequently covered natural healing methods, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and herbal remedies are the most popular.

Even with an increase in insurance coverage for some natural healing methods, the general public is still undereducated about the benefits of incorporating natural healing methods into their normal healthcare regimens.

By definition, natural healing methods or complementary and alternative medicine, as they are known by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), are a group of diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine.

On most occasions, natural healing methods are used in conjunction with conventional medicine. For instance, aromatherapy might be used after surgery to aid in recovery. Natural healing methods can also be used instead of conventional medicine, such as using herbal remedies to treat illness rather than prescription drugs.

Due to the increase in popularity of natural healing methods, many schools have opened to train natural healing practitioners. Programs in natural healing methods, like the ones offered at Orange County's Academy of Natural Healing, focus on various techniques ranging from spa therapy, which includes massage, stone therapy and aromatherapy, to holistic health practices, which focus on holistic healing of the body, and herbal studies, which promotes herbal remedies for common ailments.

As these natural healing methods are proven to be safe and effective, they are adopted into conventional medicine, and new healing methods emerge. Such was the case with chiropractic, and now acupuncture. Americans' are seeking out these alternative or natural healing methods as they strive to live healthier lives. It is only a matter of time before insurance companies pick up on the popularity of such practices and begin to offer coverage.

Nourisha Wells is the College Preparation editor for Search4 Career College News, and site editor for Counselor Companion. She has published articles on preparing high school students for college, finding financial aid, standardized test preparation, teen health and safety issues, parental and teacher involvement in college search and career exploration. She has also written several articles promoting career colleges and technical schools for adults going back to college, career changers seeking advanced degrees and non-traditional students heading to college for the first time. Her freelance work has included many career-focused institutions, such as Academy of Natural Healing.

What Are Oxides and Ultramarines?

2009-03-02T22:46:00.001+07:00

Oxides and ultramarines are commonly used as a colorant in many skin care products such as soaps, lotions, shampoos, make-up etc. They were originally natural minerals and clays mined from the earth, but there was one big problem- in the same earth came arsenic, lead, and mercury, just to name a few. These toxic metals were obviously a great risk to the public until the FDA created regulations that had these minerals manufactured in a lab. On a molecular basis they are the very same thing, only synthetically produced so now you can have the assurance that they're non-toxic. Today, in the United States, only the cosmetic grade synthetic versions of these minerals are legal to be used in cosmetic and personal care products.

This is one of those rare instances that goes to show that natural is not always safer. Nowadays it seems like almost everything can be a potential danger in one form or another and there's many with very strong views on subjects based on the entire natural verses synthetic debate. When it comes down to it in the very end, there's not much we can do about entirely wiping out synthetic products from our lives because of the lifestyles we've evolved into. All you can do is be smart and do some research on the products you purchase to find your own balance of what's best for our health, environment, and our pockets.

Visit Lisa Chambers' website for more free information, tips, and recipes based on a healthful and balanced take on beauty, home, and well being.

How To Control High Blood Pressure Naturally

2009-03-02T16:47:00.001+07:00

Stop smoking. Not only will this help keep your blood pressure in line, you'll also diminish your risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Smoking is main risk factor for atherosclerosis.Smoking injures blood vessel walls and speeds up the process of hardening of the arteries. So even though it does not cause high blood pressure, smoking is bad for anyone, especially those with high blood pressure. If you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, don't start. Once you quit, your risk of having a heart attack is reduced after the first year. So you have a lot to gain by quitting.

Weight Reduction. Obese patients should lose weight.There's a direct link between being overweight and having high blood pressure. The more overweight you are, the greater the risk. Start by making small changes. Cut 200 to 300 calories from your diet each day ? about the equivalent of saying no to two chocolate chip cookies.

Decrease salt intake. High salt intake is linked to high blood pressure. You should consume no more than 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day (about one teaspoon of salt). The average American consumes twice that, often through canned soups, frozen dinners, soy sauce, pickles, olives and processed cheeses, which are loaded with sodium. Read food labels and select reduced-sodium products. Try to select food with low salt.

Add more fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products to your plate. Eat one additional fruit or vegetable with every meal. Shrink the size of your daily meat intake to six ounces, and designate at least two dinners a week as meat-free. Fatty diets do not directly affect blood pressure. However, saturated fats and cholesterol in foods raise blood cholesterol, which increases the risk for heart disease. Foods high in fats also are high in calories, which must be reduced if you need to lose weight. Like smoking high cholestrol is also a major risk factor for atherosclerosis.

Limit alcohol consumption. Drink no more than one 12-ounce beer, one 5-ounce glass of wine or one swallow (1.5 ounces) of 80-proof whiskey if you?re a woman. Men can double these amounts. Anything more elevates blood pressure. You can reduce your blood pressure by 5-10 mmHg by just restricting Alcohol intake.

Exercise. First, get the green light from your physician. Then, slowly introduce aerobic exercise into your life, increasing the time and intensity at a pace that feels right, aiming for at least a 30-minute workout most days of the week. Young people should jog for 30 minutes three times per week and elderly patients should walk longer distances than usual.

Decrease Stress and Anxiety: Yes stress and anxiety also play role in high blood presure.If You want your blood pressure with in normal limits, try your self to get happy all times. Try extra curricular activities to make your mind stress free. Stress can make blood pressure go up for a while, and it has been thought to contribute to high blood pressure. But the long-term effects of stress are as yet unclear. Stress management techniques do not seem to prevent high blood pressure. However, such techniques may have other benefits, such as making you feel better or helping you to control over-eating.

Caffeine and Blood Pressure: Caffeine in coffee as well as in other drinks, such as tea and sodas, only raises blood pressure temporarily. So you should be able to continue to have drinks that contain caffeine, unless you are sensitive to it or have heart disease and your doctor tells you not to have any.

Eat adequate amounts of potassium-rich foods. Potassium, another mineral essential to good health, works in concert with sodium to regulate blood pressure. Studies have shown that people who consume more potassium have lower blood pressures than those who consume less. Rich sources of potassium include many fruits, such as cantaloupe, bananas, watermelon, oranges and orange juice, as well as potatoes, spinach, and zucchini. (Important note: if taking medication for high blood pressure, such as diuretics, consult a doctor before using salt substitutes that contain high amounts of potassium.

If you want to know more about Lowering High Blood Pressure naturally Visit our website.

Dr. Armughan, Read more about High Blood Pressure Symptoms Causes Diet Treatment

The Important And Useful Benefits Of Papaya

2009-03-02T01:19:00.001+07:00

The papaya is an amazingly rich source of the proteolytic enzymes. These are the chemicals that enable the digestion of protein. Papain, which is the most important of these enzymes in the papaya, is extracted and dried as a powder for use to aid the digestion, and it is often used as a meat tenderizer, the enzyme partially breaking down the meat fibers - digesting them in fact.

Many experts, such as Dr Lytton-Bernard, have claimed rejuvenating properties for papaya, especially for the control of premature ageing. It may be that it works simply because a poor digestion leaves the body without the correct nutrients. Those who find it almost impossible to digest anything frequently find that papaya used regularly, either in tablet or juice form, marks the turning point in the climb back to vitality and good health.

As a cleanser you can take a quarter pint (150ml) of papaya juice alternated each hour for twelve hours by the same amount of cucumber or green bean juice. Papaya loses some of the enzymes as it ripens, so if you have the choice select them green. They are easy to obtain in most parts of America but are not found in British greengrocers very often. Fortunately there has been a rapid expansion in the numbers of specialist shops providing for the needs of the Indian and West Indian communities where papayas can be bought.

Papaya contains arginine which is known to be essential for male fertility and also carpain, an enzyme thought to be good for the heart. Fibrin also occurs and this substance is not commonly found in the plant kingdom; in man it forms part of the blood clotting process. The papaya is an excellent source of vitamin C, with 82mg per 100g (4oz), and is rich in carotene.

After treatment with antibiotics the use of papaya juice will quickly assist the restoration of the normal bacteria in the gut which will have been destroyed by the treatment. Papaya is good for many digestive disorders and is excellent for improving poor digestion. It has also been recommended as part of the treatment for cancer. Therapeutically it can often be combined with pineapple juice in which there is another important enzyme bromelain.

The skin of the papaya is a first class external treatment for skin wounds and places that do not heal quickly. The pulp from the juicer can be used for this and as a poultice.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies for common problems as well as the value and importance of papaya .

Healing With Crystals Part V

2009-03-01T22:33:00.001+07:00

In my last article about Healing with Crystals I shared more of the legend associated with Lemurian Seed Crystals, as well as some of the intriguing empirical data I've gathered when using these rare healing crystals in my healing arts practice.

From my ongoing research with Lemurian Seed Crystals I have learned that they have an especial affinity for the limbic or emotional part of our brain. The limbic part of our nervous system controls our instinctual response to stimuli. It is the part of our brain that motivates us to take action. Research has shown that we make decisions from our emotions and then justify them with our reasoning.

It is through our brain and physical nervous system that the subtle interplay of neuro-chemicals and cerebral spinal fluids takes place creating a vibrational resonance or energetic frequency that prompts us to experience certain corresponding emotions. Contrary to popular belief it is the faster or higher frequency energies which stress us out and trigger such emotions as anger, fear or worry.

In contrast the lower frequency energies correspond with our having feelings of well-being and calm. For example in my aromatherapy practice it is the essential oils with the lower, base carrier notes that have a calming effect on our nervous system. Vetiver, Sandalwood, Spikenard and Myrrh are known to have this calming effect on our nerves. Notably they are all wood oils with a more stabile aromatic profile, meaning their scent is more long lasting, making them excellent anchors for essential oil blends.

Dr. Candace Pert and Dr. Bruce Lipton have both conducted research into the science behind our emotions and our beliefs. These publications listed will help you learn more about the important ground breaking work they've conducted: Dr. Candace Pert, Molecules of Emotion and Your Body is Your Subconscious Mind (audio) and Dr. Bruce Lipton, The Biology of Belief.

Crystals are known to have the most highly organized molecular structure in nature. It is my experience when working with the Lemurian Seed Crystals that they transmit something like a holographic blueprint of their exquisitely organized internal structure which acts to tune and refine other energetic structures they come in contact with, resulting in a realignment on all planes: physical, etheric, astral, mental and causal.

This realignment or restructuring helps our consciousness to evolve so that we are more unified and at peace within ourselves. We become more receptive to the intensified evolutionary forces that are presently at work on our planet earth and can more easily allow ourselves to be okay with whatever is happening. As well when we are at peace within we are more open to receive the guidance available to each of us for making wise decisions.

In Part VI of Healing with Lemurian Seed Crystals I will talk the research of Marcel Vogel the inventor of the liquid crystal display (LCD), as well as final thoughts about the Lemurian Seed Crystals and my empirical findings when using them in practice.

LCarnitine in the Treatment of Metabolic Disorder

2009-03-01T19:42:00.001+07:00

Newborn screening, as it is commonly known, refers to a series of blood tests performed within five days of an infant?s birth. All fifty states offer, and in most cases require, that all newborns be screened for various metabolic and genetically transmitted disorders. The total number of screenings may vary from state to state.

Earlier versions of newborn screening tested only for hypothyroidism, sickle-cell disease, PKU, and galactosemia. The new expanded screening includes tests for enzymatic and metabolic disorders. If untreated, these disorders can cause serious health problems including death. Once detected, however, they are easy to treat.

One such disorder detected by this screening is MCADD (Medium-chain Acyl-COA deyhdrogenase deficiency). MCAD is one of the enzymes that helps convert fat to energy. The body normally uses carbohydrates from our diet for energy. When those carbohydrates are used up, the body breaks down body fat for energy. The absence of MCAD can result in high levels of partially broken down fat, which is toxic to the brain and nervous system. MCADD is a hereditary disorder transmitted from parents to children through an autosomal recessive gene. When both parents carry the genetic trait for this defect, their child has a 25% chance of having this disorder. About one in 20,000 children in the United States is born with it, and, of those, 30 percent die from it. As a result, up to 50% of sudden infant deaths may be attributed to MCADD.

Once detected, MCADD is easy to treat and treated individuals go on to lead normal lives. Treatment usually consists of avoiding fasting and administering glucose orally or intravenously. Intake of medium and long-chain fatty acids should be avoided. Supplemental carnitine is recommended for some affected children.

L-carnitine is also beneficial in preventing age-related declines in metabolism and memory. Adding L-carnitine to standard medical treatments for heart failure has shown to improve exercise tolerance. Meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products are the richest sources of L-carnitine.

Darshana Vaishnav, M. D. is a board certified medical doctor with a medical degree from Penn State University. With over 20 years of medical practice in California behind her, she set up her website DrugNatural.com to promote dietary supplements. Her site offers natural vitamins, herbal and dietary supplements with reliable purity and consistency available only from physicians, naturopaths, pharmacies or healthcare providers.

Darshana Vaishnav, M. D.
http://www.drugnatural.com

Natural Alternatives Approach to Healthier Skin

2009-03-01T15:59:00.001+07:00

Skin is one of the most sensitive organs in our body, thus, we should keep it healthy to prevent any skin disease or irritations. There are many skin treatments as well as skin products to help you in maintaining your skins? health. However, when not carefully picked, the skin care products can cause you some side effects such as allergic, irritations, or even infections. These side effects are cause by the unusual reaction of your skin towards certain chemical materials on the products. Therefore it is recommended to use natural skin care to lessen the risk of getting those side effects. Natural skin care is basically skin care product which encompasses natural ingredients. They do not contain any chemical compound thus reducing the possibility of developing irritation or allergic reaction when applied to your skins.

How to treat and pamper your skin naturally? Actually it?s pretty easy. Some vegetables and fruits can do the trick. Your veggies and fruit can be cost effective and healthy yet rewarding natural skin care. For instance, you can use peach, carrot, apple, or strawberry for your facial skin care, toner and etc. You can find a lot of prescriptions for these natural skins care available in the internet.

Because of the increasing market demand for natural skin care products, companies have been responsive and produce a wide range of natural skin products, thus giving you plenty of choices to choose from.

Natural skin care products extend widely from facial skin care product to body care products. With the increasing awareness of skin care importance, natural body care products are increasingly popular in the market. Natural body scrub, whitening essence, shampoo products, hair treatment, and soap are only some of the ever-increasing popular natural body care products. Ingredients are extensive from tropical fruit, to vegetables to mineral water and many more. With this wide range of natural skin care products, it is easier than ever for you to stay healthy and beautiful yet far from the risk of developing skin allergic or irritations. Isn?t nature wonderful?

Jerrick Foo has been researching and developing all dry skin care the purpose of offering men and women safe, dry skin care tips. He have created Dry Skin Care Guide to share his 10 years of combined expertise with you. Visit http://www.dry-skin-care-guide.com for essential skin care tips.

The Natural Diet

2009-02-27T12:50:00.003+07:00

3 Simple Steps from Nature.

1.What to eat
2.How to eat
3.When to eat

WHAT TO EAT

Anything fresh... Fresh food should be the mainstay of your diet. Preferably a wide variety of foods, that are locally produced and in season. Nature will always provide you with the best food in your region each season. Avoid pre-prepared and packaged, processed or frozen foods, especially those with additives and preservatives. Follow this simple rule;

?As long as you do not have to open a package, box or can? ? you can eat or drink it.

HOW TO EAT

You should eat plenty of raw foods and certainly when cooking avoid boiling for long periods, micro-waving and deep frying. Ideally, lightly grill, steam or stir fry.

WHEN TO EAT

Listen to your body and eat when you feel hungry. Every meal should be eaten slowly, at a table or in a place where you can enjoy and allow your body and mind to focus on the process. Chew each mouthful. Don?t gulp down your food whilst you are doing something else like watching TV, working on your computer or doing something that will distract you. Take your time and enjoy your food. Most importantly, when you feel full, stop eating ?. and put it away. It takes a few minutes from the time the food is digested to inform the brain that this is sufficient. Give yourself and your brain some time to digest the food physically and mentally.

Try and avoid drinking whilst you are eating. If you must drink, have some room temperature water, never cold or a glass of wine or warm tea.

AVOID (OR AT THE VERY LEAST CONSUME IN MODERATION):

-any junk/fast food;

-fatty or deep fried food;

-milk/cheese, unless you own the cow and you can have the fresh milk;

-refined sugar and other sweet food such as chocolate and candy;

-cakes, biscuits, refined and processed cereals;

-fizzy or artificial drinks, including juice made from concentrate;

-coffee from any jar (and that includes Nescafe) or any decaf coffee. It?s ok to drink fresh coffee in moderation; and

-excessive consumption of alcohol.

TIPS FROM NATURE

-Listen to your body and it will tell you what you need and when to eat.

-Although we are programmed to drive and buy as much as we can from the supermarket, make an effort not to. For a while, try to walk to the local grocer each day, look at the fruit and vegetables available ? and choose the ones that your palate calls for that day. Variety is very important. The same goes for fish, meats and other products. Not to mention the benefits of the daily walk.

Follow these guidelines and eating naturally will always provide you with the nutrients your body needs.

Mother Nature Know Best

Practitioner of TCM in London, with a degree from the University of Beijing.

Five Ways to Save Money On Organic Food

2009-02-27T12:50:00.001+07:00

Grow your own

The cheapest method has got to be to grow your own. The great thing is that it doesn?t require you to have much garden space, or even a garden at all!

We grow tomatoes, and strawberries in containers and the extra benefit is that you get total control over the growing conditions.

The best combination is to have organic soil together with organically produced seeds or plants, that way you ensure you get the full flavour and benefit.

Containers can be placed anywhere that receives a reasonable amount of daylight, which means that you can use them on balconies or other hard surfaces.

Look for your local suppliers

One of the most satisfying things to do is to buy organic food locally. That way you get the freshest ingredients for your kitchen and also get to support local businesses. With no transportation costs for the supplier too you should get very competitive prices.

Don?t forget that these same businesses will be employing local staff so you are also helping the local economy, everybody wins in this scenario.

Local markets

We visit a big monthly market held on a disused airstrip. Organic food is just one of the variety of items sold there but the prices are very, very good indeed. Of course they are all local suppliers and with several of them in one place we benefit from healthy competition and get to sample a lot of fruit!

Local box schemes

If you are unable to get out of your house or are too busy working to select your groceries by hand then why not subscribe to an organic box scheme?

You will receive, delivered to your door, a weekly selection of fruit and vegetables in season.

Farm shops

Finally, investigate whether any farms near you are operating an organic farm shop. Our local one is operated on an open farm so that you can go and see where the animals are being kept and take a look at the crops being grown.

They actually have a well-designed walking route around the farm which makes a nice day out for the kids too.

If you investigate the options above you should be able to make considerable savings whilst you and your family sample the delights and advantages of organic food.

Virginia Louise is a keen convert to the organic way of life, having two children has especially highlighted the benefits to be gained by them from eating organically.

Virginia runs an information site on the advantages of organic food where you can obtain lots of free information about what makes organic food so beneficial, where to get it and suggested recipes.

Acne Products That Work

2009-02-27T12:39:00.001+07:00

Acne products that work include a wide range of natural and chemical treatments.

Acne products can actually help individuals to find a way to get through their acne trouble. For those that are looking for a solution, for the solution that will finally help you, there are several things that you can do to find it. Acne products range from the all natural products to the laser treatments and even to chemical treatments. Which one will work for you? That may be the hardest question of all because these acne products may work better for you then they will work for someone else.

Natural Products First

The best thing that you can do for your acne is to treat it with natural acne treatments first. These are one of the best ways to go simply because your body knows how to handle and digest natural products much more so then chemical ones. And, there are fewer side effects when you are working with natural acne medications as well. There is a wide range of choice here including products that contain a wide amount of vitamins and minerals. This may include such things as zinc and chromium.

Acne Medications

Sometimes it is necessary to deal with the acne medications on the market too. You may want to seek the advice of your dermatologist before spending a fortune on acne medications though. For example, you may want to take the time to find out what exactly is causing your acne. Once this is done, you will find out that which way to go. You may need antibiotics to treat the infections on your skin but you may also need supplements to help turn off the over producing oil glands in your skin as well.

Acne medications can be purchased through the web with great ease. You will find a wide range of products that work well at acne control. For many, acne products that are geared towards their specific needs provide them with the best acne medication available. The good news is that there are many more option for you to rely on.

Our experts have executed a research to find the best acne treatments. Find the results only on the acne product reviews source.

More valuable acne info on http://www.leandernet.com

Natural Cosmetics Using Nature's Best

2009-02-27T00:34:00.001+07:00

Are you concerned about the possible harmful effects of cosmetics? More and more consumers are turning to natural cosmetics made with organic and herbal ingredients to keep themselves and the environment safe. Synthetic materials found in some products can do damage. In contrast to artificial chemicals, natural cosmetics are specially formulated not to hurt or irritate.

Beauty from All Natural Cosmetics

Few people realize that skin is a ?dynamic tissue?. Up to 60% of the makeup we apply is absorbed into our bloodstream! Cosmetics are an important part of life but we need to be aware of the damage chemicals have on our system. The only way to correct this is to find something less harmful. Natural and organic herbal cosmetics are the answer - grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and genetically engineered seeds.

Naturally formulated cosmetics are much safer and almost free of artificial additives. Plant waxes, essential oils, and extracts from flowers are good alternatives. If given proper care, problems such as acne, dermatitis, allergies and other irritations can be kept to a minimum.

History

Nations became conscious of the environment and the limitations on so much of the world?s resources. Endangered plant and animal species around the world were identified and quickly became outlawed for hunting and harvesting. The use of products derived from these sources was banned. The sperm whale produced waxes that were greatly valued for their function in cosmetics. During the 60?s and 70?s a liquid wax (jojoba oil) found in the deserts of California, Arizona and Mexico was found by scientists. It not only replaced the prohibited wax from the sperm whale but appeared to actually be superior.

This oil is an excellent moisturizing agent and has spreading and lubricating properties. It leaves a rich non-oily velvety feel and enhances flexibility and suppleness. Studies done at the University of Michigan demonstrated that it is quickly absorbed. Because of this, pores and hair follicles remain open maintaining their proper functioning ability.

Applied directly and as often as required it is known to reduce wrinkles and bring relief to sensitive skin. The desert peoples of Southern California and Mexico had long been using it to treat rashes and cuts because of anti-bacterial qualities.

More Natural Ingredients Found in Cosmetics

Natural vitamin C is used to reduce wrinkles, moisturize and repair sun damage. A study recently showed that applying topical Vitamin C, 15 to 30 minutes after UV exposure, sunburn cells decreased and repair to the damage had begun. The one problem of this vitamin is that it is unstable when left open to the air. Research is continuing to optimize this but one consistent way is to use an anhydrous (no water) base cream.

Aloe vera is a soothing plant and the base of many natural cleansing formulas, offering exfoliation, moisturizing and protection. Coconut oils, too, provide effective care for a soft, wrinkle-free youthful look.

Caring for Sensitive and Dry Skin

If you have a sensitive type of skin you know that its fine, delicate texture reacts quickly to heat and cold. Sunburn and windburn happen way too easily and are prone to allergic reactions. It is often dry and some detergents, cosmetics and alcohol cause irritation that leaves red and blotchy patches.

Always use sunscreen lotions or creams. Wash the face with mild baby soap, rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel. Do not use anything rough. Always test perfume or makeup on the inside of the wrist first in case of a reaction.

Applying Cosmetics

There is an art to applying make up to the face and in particular to the eyes. There are interactive sites that will allow you to try different colors. Use the appropriate product ? cleansers, moisturizers and creams and remember to remove makeup at the end of the day. Keep a check on the dates and replace items as needed.

Cosmetics Tips

Cosmetics should be kept fairly simple - easy and quick. Used not only to accentuate eyes, lips and color for the cheeks but also to camouflage problems such as pigmentations, irregularities, roughness and blemishes. It is important that a woman be noticed for herself rather than for her makeup. Beauty tips provide help with the application. Pamper yourself with a quality product and feel confident in both how you feel and look.

You are invited to visit us at http://www.skin-care-n-cosmetics.com and http://www.perfume-n-cologne-shop.com

Let us know how we are doing. Are you getting the information you are looking for?

Recognizing the Risks and Side Effects of Adderall and the Symptoms of Adderall Withdrawal

2009-02-25T00:54:00.001+07:00

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or ADD, you may have explored the option of treating him or her with a prescription stimulant drug like Adderall. Stimulants are commonly prescribed by doctors for children with ADHD because they have been found to be predominantly safe and effective in treating the symptoms of the condition. They do, however, carry a risk of side effects which can vary in intensity with each person.

Stimulants increase brain activity, which in turn can increase a child's ability to pay attention, and Adderall is a popular child ADHD treatment -- about 1 million U.S. children currently take it or its time-released sibling, Adderall XR. Many Adderall users report minor side effects such as loss of appetite, weight loss, insomnia, dizziness and headaches. Although less frequently reported, other side effects include irritability, nervousness, feelings of suspicion or paranoia and restlessness.

There are some serious side effects of Adderall that are reported rarely. The most alarming of these are Tourette's Syndrome, hallucinations, high blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Any side effects, mild or severe, should be immediately reported to your child's physician.

Adderall is a methamphetamine, and so also carries a risk of addiction. Patients should take the lowest effective dosage, and because each person reacts differently to this medication, it can take some time to figure out what that is. Although Adderall abusers are usually adults, if your child has become disturbingly aggressive or irritable, it could be a sign that he or she is abusing the drug, or has been prescribed an incorrect dosage.

If your child is abusing Adderall, abruptly stopping high dosages of the medication can lead to signs of Adderall withdrawal, which can include extreme fatigue and depression. In the most severe but rare cases, patients have reported psychosis.

Many find Adderall to be an effective treatment for ADHD and decide it is worth enduring minor side effects, but parents should think hard about the risks involved. This year, Canada pulled Adderall from the market after reports of 20 deaths. They have recently decided to put the drug back on the shelves again because of new research that shows the drug to be safe. However, all stimulants carry a small risk of death, especially among those with heart problems.

There are some natural ingredients that have proven effective in the treatment of ADHD symptoms, and which you may decide to try before prescription medication. Some of the best ingredients are Centella Asiatica (also called Gotu Kola), Green Oats (also called Avena Sativa) and Panax Ginseng. Many herbal and homeopathic remedies contain these ingredients and can be a safe alternative to Adderall, should you decide stimulant drugs are not the right choice for your child.

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Tess Thompson is a Homeopathic Practitioner, Reflexologist, Certified Aromatherapist, and Herbalist who contributes regularly to Native Remedies - where you can find All Natural Homeopathic and Herbal Remedies for many health conditions including the natural treatment of ADHD and child ADHD treatment.

Lower Cholesterol Naturally Using a Smorgasbord of Fiber

2009-02-25T00:46:00.001+07:00

With a high cholesterol and heart disease in the family, Phil?s doctor had urged him to adhere to American Heart Association?s low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.

?Your LDL cholesterol is 181?it?s down only 7%. That?s still too high, Phil,? the doctor said, sighing. ?At your age (46 years old), you can?t afford to walk around with an LDL that high. You?ll end up with a heart attack. Here?s a prescription for -----, a statin drug. This?ll drop your cholesterol like a stone.?

Phil took the doctor?s prescription but never filled it. He?d read somewhere about the muscle and liver side-effects of the so-called ?statin? cholesterol drugs. Despite his doctor?s reassurances, he was more scared of the drug than of the prospect of a heart attack in his life. Instead, he embarked on a program that included several readily-obtainable foods and included them in his daily routine for several months.

On his return to the doctor, Phil?s LDL was down to 112?a 38% drop. ?Wow! That?s a great result on your medicine,? the doctor declared. But Phil informed him of his reluctance to take the medication and how he used foods instead.

Mention fiber and nearly everyone thinks of the dry, cardboard-like breakfast cereals found in the grocery store. It?s as if healthy ingredients come at the cost of taste. But the majority of fibers these products contain really provide limited benefits. Wheat-fiber based products like these have essentially no effect whatsoever on cholesterol in your body (though it?s good for your bowels.)

Fiber comes in a broad variety of shapes and sizes that you can incorporate into your nutritional program in interesting, delicious ways that can deliver powerful health benefits. With knowledge of superior sources of fiber in food and supplements, you can create a smorgasbord of fiber to substantially lower cholesterol.

But I already eat whole wheat bread!

Most Americans take in a meager 14 grams of fiber a day. Processed foods created for convenience and temptation (and profit) are generally stripped of fiber content. Sugary, dried, instant, microwavable, just-add-water foods in glitzy packaging are therefore miserably deficient in fiber.

The benefits of fiber begin when you take in at least 25 grams every day. This is the level of fiber intake recommended by most national organizations like the American Heart Association. But something unexpected happens when your fiber intake is 50 grams or more a day: cholesterol plummets, blood sugar is lowered, diabetes can be prevented?and you can lose weight, too.

The diet advocated by the American Heart Association lowers cholesterol around 7%. (Yawn.) Compare this to a diet with more stratospheric quantities of fiber (>50 grams per day): cholesterol is lowered 30% or more? that?s as good as the statin cholesterol medicines. (Imagine what would happen if you combined a cholesterol-lowering medicine and super-high fiber intake.)

Oat bran

Beta-glucan is a soluble fiber that avidly absorbs water and transforms into a gooey gel. This gel, as it traverses the twenty-some feet of intestines, is an efficient absorber of cholesterol. Beta-glucan is responsible for the cholesterol-lowering properties of oatmeal that you?ve likely heard about. You know what?s even better than oatmeal? Oat bran. Ounce for ounce, oat bran has twice the soluble fiber of oatmeal. You can buy oat bran in bags and boxes in most grocery stores. Oat bran is also more versatile. You can use it as a hot cereal microwaved in skim milk or soy milk (add raw sunflower or pumpkin seeds, fresh berries, or sliced fruit), or you can add it to yogurt, fruit smoothies, or protein drinks. Like oatmeal, you can also use it in your baking.

One ounce of oat bran (1/4 cup) contains 4 grams of fiber, of which 3 grams are soluble. Including ? cup of oat bran a day in your diet can powerfully lower cholesterol.

Pectins

Pectin is the soluble fiber found in abundance in apples and citrus fruits, especially grapefruit. In citrus, the pectin is most concentrated in the white rinds, not the pulp, so don?t do such a good job when you peel. The quantity of pectin in a single piece of fruit is relatively modest (around 1.5 grams), but when reaching for a piece of fruit, an apple or citrus fruit can be one way to add modestly to your net daily soluble fiber intake.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is an ancient food, described in Egyptian writings dating back thousands of years. When the seeds are ground, the lignans, a structural fiber, are exposed and available as soluble fiber. (In addition to powerful cholesterol-lowering properties, the lignans are being intensively investigated for their cancer-preventing properties.) Flaxseed is available both as whole seeds and already-ground. Whole seeds need to be ground (e.g., in your coffee-grinder) to release the fibers. Don?t confuse flaxseed oil with the seed itself. When the oil is extracted from flaxseed to produce flaxseed oil, it can be a source of linolenic acid, which in turn is converted by your body to a small quantity of omega-3 fatty acids (as in fish). But the bulk of benefit from flaxseed is found in the lignan, or fiber, content, and the ground seeds are therefore required, not just the oil.

Use flaxseed just as you would oat bran: Mix with skim or soy milk, raw seeds, and berries to make a warm cereal; mix with yogurt, fruit smoothies, protein drinks. Two tablespoons a day provides 17 grams of fiber, of which 6 grams are soluble.

Beans

Beans are an excellent and easy addition to most dinner menus. A ? cup serving of starchy beans?pinto, Spanish, black, red, white?provides around 2 grams of soluble fiber and 4 grams total fiber. (Green beans are great for many reasons but are not a significant source of soluble fiber.) Vegetarian chilis and bean soups are among the many ways you can use these tremendous sources of fiber. Although beans are a carbohydrate source, the glycemic index (sugar-raising effect) is relatively low.

Psyllium Seed

Psyllium seed is the main ingredient in the familiar Metamucil, as this seed has the capacity to absorb many times its weight in water, making intestinal contents bulkier and softer. But it also lowers cholesterol 7?10%, just like oat bran and flaxseed. Psyllium is useful for its convenience: Just dissolve a teaspoon in 8?12 oz of water and drink. However, it is much less versatile than oat bran and flaxseed in that you really can?t conceal it in yogurt or fruit smoothies or protein drinks. A teaspoon of psyllium (containing 2.4 grams of soluble fiber, 3 grams total fiber) is most useful when you are unable for one reason or another to use another soluble fiber source (e.g., when you?re traveling). Taken 30 minutes prior to meals, you can also use it to produce satiety, or the feeling of fullness that discourages you from overeating. Many people use this as a helpful weight-loss strategy.

Nuts

Nuts are little powerhouses of beneficial nutrients. Unfortunately, manufacturers will roast them in oils (often hydrogenated), add salt, or coat them in sugar and other less healthy additives (?honey-roasted?). Stick with the raw variety for greatest benefit. In particular, raw almonds and walnuts pack the greatest punch when it comes to lowering cholesterol. A ? cup serving of either each day lowers cholesterol 8%. The route by which nuts accomplish this is not entirely clear, but the content of fiber, phytosterols (in almonds and similar to that found in butter-substitutes Take Control and Benecol), and other phytonutrients likely all contribute to the effect. Nuts are also rich in monounsaturated oils (similar to that in olive oil) and this may contribute to cholesterol-lowering. What?s more, the generous fiber content of nuts has been shown to lower blood sugar and can even lower the effective glycemic index of carbohydrate foods (slows sugar release into the blood). This effect can help prevent diabetes. The wonderful satiety effect (feeling full) of raw nuts will permit you to eat a handful of nuts and feel satisfied. Up to a ? cup a day is advised for full benefits.

Phytosterols

Phytosterols (also known as stanol and sterol esters) are found in abundance in many plants and closely resemble human cholesterol in structure. But when 2 level tablespoons are taken orally each day, they lower cholesterol around 15%. Curiously, phytosterols need to be ?esterified?, or bound, to a chemical side-group that gives them an oily consistency in order to exert their full cholesterol-lowering effect in the intestine. This is the reason that phytosterols come in oil-based forms as butter substitutes (Take Control, Benecol) and more recently as a mayonnaise-substitute. You can find the butter substitute products in the dairy aisle of the grocery store. Beware of their calorie content, as excessive quantities can still cause you to gain weight despite the cholesterol-lowering effect.

Soy protein powder

Soy beans have many beneficial nutrients. Among them are isoflavones, which are believed by many to help relieve menopausal symptoms in women, as isoflavones resemble estrogen. However, it is the protein we?re interested in for cholesterol-lowering properties. The protein has been shown to lower cholesterol 15?20% by shutting off the liver?s production of cholesterol. Soy protein, in fact, is one of the foods endorsed by the FDA to lower cholesterol.

The easiest way to get the 25 grams (3 tablespoons) of soy protein required for full cholesterol-lowering benefit is through powders that you can purchase in canisters at grocery and health food stores. Use the powder as part of health shakes (with yogurt or kefir, fresh fruit, oat bran, skim milk, soy milk, etc.) Other sources of soy protein include soy milk, textured-vegetable protein used as a meat substitute, soy nuts, soy cheese, low-carb pasta, and soy butter.

Create a smorgasbord of fiber

Including just a little of one or two of these strategies will help lower your cholesterol. But if you?re looking for a super-charged benefit, combine several of these foods and nutrients. It is entirely possible to lower LDL cholesterol a full 30% or more when you put several together each and every day. A sample approach might be:

?Raw almonds?? cup per day (total fiber 5.8 g; soluble 0.6 g)

?Oat bran?? cup per day (total fiber 4 g, 3 g soluble)

?Psyllium seed?2 tsp per day (6 g total fiber; 4.8 g soluble)

?Citrus fruit?e.g., 1 orange (around 1 g soluble fiber)

?Beans?1/2 cup per day, cooked (4 g total fiber; 1 g soluble)

?Soy protein powder?3 tbsp in protein shake (25 grams protein)

The fiber content of this regimen alone?over 20 grams added?packs a powerful effect on cholesterol. Most people lose a modest quantity of weight, as well, because of the feeling of fullness that fiber-rich foods provide. If you are diabetic or have ?borderline? or ?pre-? diabetes, blood sugars are often lower on this regimen. (Discuss this with your doctor to avoid excessively low blood sugars if you take oral diabetic medications or insulin.)

But beware. . .

Start with too much fiber all at once and you may?paradoxically?end up with constipation. The safest way to proceed if you begin with an average low-fiber American diet is to add one or two fiber sources at a time, and add another form only after two weeks. This permits your intestines to accommodate to the increased bulk. Also be sure to take in plenty of water, as these fibers will draw water into the intestine and can actually cause you to be dehydrated if you do not drink enough. If the fiber cannot draw enough water into the intestine, you can end up with a very nasty case of constipation. Not pretty! (Consult your doctor if you have a history of congestive heart failure, kidney or liver disease, edema, or have been advised to follow a fluid restriction before you embark on a program that requires greater fluid intake.)

William Davis, MD is a practicing cardiologist and author of the book Track Your Plaque: The only prevention program that shows how to use the new heart scans to detect, track, and control coronary plaque. His new book, What Does my Heart Scan Show? will be available for free through http://www.trackyourplaque.com.

How to Find a Gym and Start Exercising

2009-02-20T22:26:00.001+07:00

There is hardly a week that passes without an article or study touting the benefits of exercise. Exercise to cure cancer, exercise to lose weight, feel better, livelonger, and stop dementia, the list appears endless. The benefits of exercise sound fantastic but there is just one problem. You have to exercise to gain the benefits! For many, this is a big problem.

So, what can you do to get yourself motivated to join the wonderful world of exercising? A great solution is to join a gym where you are in the company of like-minded people. Joining a gym for the first time or after a period of inactivity can be a little scary. I hope this article will make your fitness journey a little easier.

Aren?t all gyms pretty much the same?

The short answer would be. ??. NO. Every gym has it?s own personality both in the equipment and the type of people it attracts. Some gyms cater to weight lifters with lots of free weights and little else, while other facilities might cater to working women and offer activities such as yoga, spinning or aerobics. There are locally owned gyms and nationwide chains. Small gyms as well as mega fitness centers. There is a gym for everybody but it will take a little footwork to find your perfect fit.

What?s the most important feature when looking for a gym?

In my opinion, location must be considered before anything else. Absence will not make the heart grow fonder. A gym more than 10 minutes from your home or office will end up not getting used. If you like to work out in the morning you might want to stick with gyms close to home. If you?re a lunchtime sweat maven then a gym near work could be a better option. Some of the larger chains may have facilities by both work and home. In addition, if you travel, gyms with multiple locations may let you work out for FREE, or at a discount, if they have a facility at your travel destination.

Other Features to Consider

Membership Clientele ? Check out the other patrons in the gym you are considering. Each gym has it?s own personality. Is it mostly women or men? Is everybody wearing fashionable workout gear or is it a shorts and t-shirt crowd? Does it cater to families or is it an adult?s only gym?

Equipment - The quality and variety of equipment is very important if you plan on starting a comprehensive fitness program. Is the equipment well maintained? Check to see how many machines are ?out of order?. Check to see if free weights are offered as well as machines. Is there an adequate cardio section with plenty of bikes, climbers and treadmills? These tend to be high use pieces of equipment so it is important that the facility have several.

Hours - Everybody has different times for his or her workouts. Make sure the gym you choose will accommodate your schedule. If you are an early bird and your gym opens at 10:00 a.m. then you are probably going to end up not using it despite the other features you find appealing.

Price - Don?t get fooled by a low-ball price. Make sure the membership includes the use of everything of interest to you. Some gyms have a low membership fee and then charge extra for using the tennis courts, pool, classes etc. Read the fine print. Also, there are all-inclusive low priced gyms that are in the business of selling memberships and don?t really care what happens after you sign up. You may find that half your town has a membership and you have to wait in line to use the equipment.

Management - Is there an active owner or manager on the premises? What is there policy regarding restacking your weights and the playing of loud music? In some gyms, anything goes and you may hear 3 or 4 different stereos playing at the same time, weights are thrown around and you can never find the equipment you would like to use. This is a sign of poor and inattentive management and should probably be removed from consideration.

Everybody is different and there is not a single solution for picking the ideal gym. The key is to find a place that you feel comfortable and that you will use on a regular basis. Working out is a habit that takes time to form. Don?t make an impulsive decision that will cause you to lose your desire to get in shape.

Before making a commitment, visit and workout at a few gyms that you are considering. Most facilities will let you try them out for a few days. Make sure you go at the times you would if you were to join. This will give you a feel for how crowded the equipment is at that time. Now, the only thing left to do is just go out and GET STARTED!!

Here is a list of several gyms with nationwide locations. These will offer a good starting point on your quest for the perfect gym. Check for locations in your area.

http://www.powerhousegym.com/
http://www.goldsgym.com/
http://www.worldgym.com/
http://www.ballyfitness.com/
http://www.24hourfitness.com/

Mike Brooks is a life long follower and proponent of the fitness lifestyle. Mr. Brooks believes that being healthy is a choice and includes not only a proper diet but total fitness of the mind, body and soul. His column appears weekly at http://www.ultimatehealthreport.com

Dermatologist Acne Treatments for a Guaranteed Flawless Complexion

2009-02-19T10:53:00.001+07:00

Lead a blemish-free life and that includes your face too. Banish the bane termed as acne forever. However, acne treatment is not a quick fix solution. Go in for an acne treatment that guarantees not only relief for the time being but also deters a relapse.

Acne is caused by accumulation of dead skin cells, overactive oil glands or an attack by the P. acnes bacteria. Acne treatment involves striking at any one-root cause or taking a multi-pronged approach. However, the best acne treatment is to be decided only by the dermatologist and it may be that the nature and severity of the acne problem, the patient?s age, lifestyle and medication routine may merit an individualized treatment.

Generally, acne treatment is categorized into three broad spectrums. The most common, however, an instant but temporary cure is by killing the bacteria that are caused by the blocked follicles. This is done either by the intake of antibiotics like tetracycline, or by treating the affected areas externally with bactericidal substances like benzoyl peroxide. As one can guess, it does nothing to control the oil secretion that is the root of all blocked follicles and henceforth, acnes, return successfully after the treatment is successfully over.

The second method is by reducing the secretion of oils from the glands. This is done by a daily intake of Vitamin A derivates like isotretinoin over a period of a few months. The drug has a much longer effect than anti-bacterial treatments and often cures acne for good. The treatment requires close medical examination by a dermatologist since the drug has many known side effects.

The third, popular, acne treatment involves exfoliating the skin. This process encourages the peeling of the top layer of skin to prevent a build-up of dead skin cells which combine with skin oil to block pores. It also helps to unblock clogged pores.

Severely sore cysts require the injection of interlesional corticosteroid, which acts by melting the cyst within 3-5 days and prevents scars. Isotretinoin is an effective acne scar treatment. It works by reducing the activity of the oil glands and is widely regarded as the most effective drug to fight cystic acne. However, this pill has serious side-effects on liver and the nervous system and as such should not be used during pregnancy.

Oral contraceptives like norgestimate, ethynodiol and norethindrone acetate work against acne by decreasing the activity of the oil glands.

For people sensitive to some acne drugs, sodium sulfacetamide is an effective alternative treatment.

Laser therapy, which scrapes away the top layer of the skin, thereby removing the dead cells, is an effective acne treatment with enduring effects. This peeling of the skin is also achieved by the increasingly popular TCA peels. Easy to use, these peels reach deep into the skin coming up with results that last up to a year. Not only do they remove the acne, but also prevent its recurrence. They are now available for home use (see the link below). TCA peels are the most cost effective acne treatment and should be a part of any acne or skin care regimen.

The acne treatment may sound easy but you should never indulge in self-medication. Some acne drugs are quite powerful and any misuse may trigger irreversible side effects. Nor should acne be treated by pricking the pimples. This causes scarring that even an extensive acne scar treatment cannot reverse. Catch them young is the motto of every dermatologist treating acne. So do not neglect even the tiniest blackhead.

Acne treatment is safe as long as you are in the right hands.

David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. He is an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.bestskinpeel.com

Fruits in Vegetable's Clothing

2009-02-19T10:43:00.001+07:00

When most of us think of fruit we think of a tasty apple, a ripe banana or a juicy orange. We rarely conjure up images of tomatoes, avocados, eggplants or chilies. Yet, they are fruits as well, and require more special care and preparation than their true vegetable counterparts. Here are a few tips for enjoying these delightful fruits:

Avocados

While they are high in fat, avocados are loaded with vitamin C and other healthy elements. When purchased, many avocados are not yet ripe. The optimal way to ripen them is by sticking them in a paper bag on the counter for a day or so, until they have gone just beyond firm. A good way to test for ripeness is to stick a toothpick in the stem end. If it slides in easily, it is ready. Once ripened, store your avocados in the refrigerator. When preparing an avocado, remember to remove the pit immediately, as the flesh of the fruit tends to darken quickly. Don't throw away the pit if you plan to refrigerate again, however, as the pit will keep the fruit fresh in the refrigerator.

Chilies

Fresh chilies run the spectrum in terms of flavor and degrees of hotness. When working with chilies, be sure to protect your hands with gloves or to wash your hands thoroughly after handling. The oil of a chili pepper can burn the skin and eyes. If your chilies come from a can, be sure to rinse them thoroughly in cold water before using to extinguish a little of the extra fire that is usually found in the seeds and liquid.

Know Your Chilies

If you like it hot and are willing to experiment with chilies, head down to your Spanish or Mexican supermercado. A few of the most common medium varieties include ancho chilies, mulato chilies, pasilla chilies and chipotle chiles.

Peppers

Red, yellow, orange and green, bell peppers are full of flavor and they are also packed with vitamins C, A and potassium. Choose peppers that are firm and bright and use them within a few days for maximum appeal. A great way to store peppers for a longer term is to roast a large batch at a time on the grill or by broiling them in the oven. Once charred, seal the peppers in a bag for 10 minutes. Then, slice and store the peppers in a jar in the refrigerator to be used in vegetable dishes, salads and antipasto.

Tomatoes

This plentiful treat comes in all shapes and sizes. If they need ripening, place them stem down in a warm location, like your windowsill, for a few days. Then store them in a cool place and wash just before using. If you just can't wait that long, toss them (gently) in a paper bag with an apple for quicker results.

Eggplant

Look for a giant that is deep purple and glossy when choosing the best eggplant. It is best stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before use. Any bitter juices can be removed before cooking by cutting the eggplant in cubes and sprinkling on a heavy hand of kosher salt. Place on towels for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Healthier living can make a person feel like they have a new lease on life. Stop by ModernSage.com today for more tips on tips on healthy food a and an an inspired spirit!

Victoria Jerman Dravneek, a.k.a. The Office Coach began her corporate career as an Administrative Assistant for children's book publisher, Scholastic Inc. in 1994. Within six years, she was the Vice President of the NYC-based web developer Affinity Online. She is Director of Editorial and Marketing on Modern Sage,a Women's Natural Health Magazine She has served as the Assistant Managing Editor of iVillage.com and has been a producer and consultant for such well-known women?s brands as Women.com and the National Organization for Women.

Looking for more articles by Victoria? Visit Fresh Contents.Com now, where she is authoring more articles like this.

Natural Health Remedy Feel Better More Quickly

2009-02-19T10:31:00.001+07:00

Being ill and feeling run down all the time is not the best way to enhance your productivity at work and your energy at home. The reality of this situation is that many people suffer from fatigue and don't know that there is a simple remedy for it. When your body does not receive the correct amounts of the proper nutrients, it cannot carry out its everyday functions properly. This is often caused by a lack of vital nutrients in the body.

In the meantime, you are expecting all kinds of things from your body. You might want it to deliver, but your inputs are just not creating the right outputs. Feeling lethargic, with a lack of energy and stamina is a sure sign of loss of natural nutrients in the body.

Many natural health remedies will help you fight all these issues with which your body is faced. A natural health regimen will incorporate the right eating habits, which means your body will get the right food to help you keep fatigue and lethargy at bay.

Natural health remedies come in many forms; these can be natural health products for internal and external use, natural health medicine or natural health tonics. As a consumer, you have a number of options. You should start with one product, build a regimen, and then move on to the next.

A natural health remedy can also involve using natural health products to help you keep your body as healthy as you possibly can. Natural health remedies will help you maintain wellness, not simply treat the symptoms, as is the case in most of modern American medicine.

Your body is like a car. It needs the right fuel, in the proper amounts, so that it can keep running at maximum performance. Natural health remedies will give you a helping and natural advantage in all the little everyday ailments that you are faced with. As a consumer, you have a number of options. You should start with one product, build a regimen and view the results, and then move on to the next.

In addition to using natural health remedies, you should also learn what to eat and in what proportions, so you can prevent stress and fatigue. Changing your diet will have benefits that last beyond the day or the week; changing your diet will have a lifelong impact on your energy level and productivity.

Many of the natural health remedies are praised for their fast and effective means of dealing with many of today's ailments. Their long history is something that cannot be denied. Chinese herbal medicine has been around for centuries, and in the Western world, folk medicine is being proven by modern science to be based in fact. No longer is folk medicine viewed as an archaic tradition from the hill country of the Southern states. It is joining the mainstream of modern America because people are sick and tired of not only the cost of pharmaceuticals, but because many feel that doctors are simply throwing medicine at a problem instead of finding a cure.

My own experience is an example of this. After knee surgery 3 years ago, I developed serious allergies that caused me to break out in hives on a daily basis. Nothing a prominent allergist or my family doctor has done can find the reason for these daily attacks, yet they keep me going by prescribing huge doses of Allegra and Tagamet. Out of pocket expenses for these medications, if I did not have co-pay, would be outrageous.

This experience has caused me to become interested in natural herbal remedies and all things related to natural medicine. My quest for a cure has begun with research. I have developed a website, http://www.naturesherbalremediesonline.com, to address the issues facing people today who are seeking answers.

The website is designed to be interactive, with a form on the home page designed for the reader to ask for more information and to give suggestions for topics. I urge everyone interested in natural herbal remedies to visit today, and leave your feedback.

Alden Smith is a published and award winning author who's website http://www.naturesherbalremediesonline.com informs and educates the person wanting to learn more about natural remedies. A martial artist, he focuses now on healing & natural cures.

Yoga The Natural Master Of All Remedies

2009-02-19T01:16:00.001+07:00

Yoga is practised the whole world over by people wanting to free up their mind from stress/anxiety and to strengthen their concentration pattern. Pressure from stress and a great many other disorders are some of the main reasons why people turn to yoga. And why wouldnt they when in return they gain a healthy body and a new outlook on life. Without doubt it is a force in its self to help combat anger outbursts, frustration and depression.

By practising yoga under the hands of dedicated followers then you are certain of results in banishing any displeasures you may have. Yoga is very effective in the way it takes control over those displeasures and replaces them with positive thoughts.

People are taking to such exercises because of the relaxed thinking pattern it imposes on the mind where all your cares and woes are put on hold. It also helps relieve those discomforts that come with every day life. Exercising your body in yoga movements is a satisfying master of all remedies achieved naturally.

All ages can participate in yoga. Even school children are practicing the moves to overcome their anger outbursts, in other words tantrums when not getting their own way. Remember workouts can be done at home if preferred.

In fact, yoga practiced at home can prove to be more relaxing because you are in control over your own moves unless of course you are following a routine put together on a video etc.

Exercises like the Hatha Yoga may be the best for you. For effects to take place this exercise has to be practiced consistently otherwise no results for body improvement? For the digestive system to respond accurately to your yoga actions then empty your bowels and clear your nose from mucus before practice takes place. Concentration is very important to adhere too when doing yoga; any distractions can upset the apple cart. When in practice at home there are no set times to when you start and finish. You may find first thing in the morning is perfect where no interruptions from salesman at the door Set your self in the mood then choose which room in the house your yoga will take place and open a window for ventilation.

Peace and quiet are key features behind your WORKOUT WORKING OUT.

100% fit mind and body is what healthy living is all about. Yoga helps you claim what is rightfully yours. A content mind the natural way. http://www.want2yoga.com Move on with your life http://www.allaboutonlineeducation.com

Toothpaste What In The World Have I Been Putting In My Mouth?

2009-02-17T18:34:00.001+07:00

Boy, I sure am glad I'm addicted to reading labels! Over the years I found my favorite time to read labels is waking up in the early morning with that first cup of java in an attempt to get the blood circulating to my brain. Well, one day just before brushing my teeth while still partially dazed, I scanned over the ingredients list on my toothpaste tube and nearly gagged. Sodium laurel sulfate? Eckkkk.....

Sodium laurel sulfate is an artificial foam booster used in many products from garage floor cleaners and other industrial cleansers to store bought soaps and shampoos. In a concentrated form it is not only an irritant, but some studies have even linked it to cancer. Some debate the fact that it may pose a threat to our health and environment, and I can be open minded enough to agree that the amount used in most products is within a concentration appropriate for the product's purpose that certainly won't kill you overnight if the product in question is used as directed. (Although I personally prefer to avoid products with it.) However, in my mind, I can't justify the reasoning of it being used in a product that's to be used in my mouth several times a day!

I decided to do some further research on ingredients commonly used in toothpaste and the results have surprised me. It turn out that sodium laurel sulfate wasn't the only thing I should be worrying about.

One of the of the concerns I had already been aware of was with fluoride. There have been studies proving that over-exposure could cause forms of cancer in time. What's interesting is, in my research I actually came across one point of view that was a big 'ol so what? Everything causes cancer nowadays. Ordinarily, I'd almost agree. The difference is toothpaste is easily ingested and even if you rinse well trace amounts are sure to get left behind. Multiply that by three times a day for the rest of your life...

Then the real shock sets in! There are now studies that prove fluoride has very little to no effects in the prevention of tooth decay! Alright then.... It seems like an entirely pointless risk to me now.

A newer ingredient that has been added to toothpaste as an antibacterial agent is triclosan. It's formulation and structure has been compared to some of the most toxic known chemicals. Some argue that it is in fact safe, but setting the chemical's composition aside, there are also other concerns. Being an antibacterial agent, it takes exercise away from our immune systems. Just like the theory of the overuse of antibiotics- bacteria and viruses will eventually build stronger and stronger resistances which will make it harder to treat more serious conditions in the future. Antibacterials don't discriminate either. Good bacteria could also be killed, creating an imbalance.

Some toothpastes also contain hydrated silica. Now this, I already knew, was pretty much sand. What I am still trying to figure out, is why one would want it in there toothpaste?

There were a couple of other questionable additives that I have read about, more than half of what I've read about are additives also used in pesticides. It sounds like there's yet another product on the market that ruffles up interesting debates in regards to safety.

Am I saying, everyone hurry up and throw out your toothpaste before you die! Absolutely not. I simply think people should be informed so that they can make their own decisions and in the very least, have the opportunity to know it's a good idea to have an extra good rinsing after brushing your teeth. The only thing I do strongly encourage is that if you have small children- please keep this in mind and keep an extra eye out for them while brushing! I remember how much I loved the taste of my Sesame Street toothpaste as a kid, so most of my worries are for them. Ingesting enough of this stuff can easily be toxic for a small child.

If you are interested in safer solutions you can always check out your local health food store for more natural toothpastes, but as many of times products such as these tend to cost a little. For a thriftier approach, I know many that use plain baking soda on their toothbrushes. Some even drip just a few drops of hydrogen peroxide on their brushes before the baking soda.

For myself, personally, I've had a hard time adjusting to these methods so I have found a few more tolerable solutions. Sometimes mixing a few drops of a natural orange, lime, or peppermint essential oil makes the experience easier to deal with in regards to plain baking soda. My favorite method by far is making my own natural homemade recipe for toothpaste. What I do is take a small container of baking soda and slowly mix in natural vegetable glycerine until it reaches a similar consistency to the toothpaste that we're all commonly used to. Then I sparingly add a few drops of my essential oils to taste. Glycerin is naturally sweet and mildly antibacterial, so if you make a little at a time there's no concerns of it spoiling. Oddly enough, not only does this taste surprisingly decent, but my teeth are actually whiter than ever!

Playing with natural essential oils in toothpaste is actually pretty fun and can make it pretty tasty, but remember even natural substances can be toxic. So as always- do your homework FIRST! I know many are used to minty toothpastes and wintergreen essential oil is one in particular that may be tempting, but is in fact toxic if ingested internally!

You can read more articles and find various tips and recipes collected by this author at Chambers' Essentials- Our blog for beauty, health, home, and soul

Natural ADD Supplements Say No to Drugs

2009-02-17T18:14:00.001+07:00

Natural ADD Supplements ? Alternative Treatment for ADD/ADHD

A big concern of parents these days is if and when they are going to receive the official diagnosis - that little Johnny or little Susie has ADD/ADHD.

They were aware that their child was a bit overactive. And the report from the teachers was that little Johnny had a hard time focusing, getting along with others, and remaining on task.

But the official diagnosis meant that they were expected to do something about this problem. And that something was probably expected to be a drug like Ritalin.

Many parents are informed by teachers or health care professionals that they will be failing their children if they decide against putting them on Ritalin or other drugs routinely used to treat ADD.

Lots of parents, wanting their children to lead happy and productive lives, give in to the pressure because of a lack of information about alternative treatments.

Natural ADD Supplements are Finally Reaching the Mainstream

Some parents are however, beginning to question the wisdom of stringing their children out on drugs like Ritalin and other amphetamines routinely used to treat ADD/ADHD.

Neurochemically, these drugs share a similarity to cocaine.

Countries such as Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Britain do not routinely prescribe stimulants for ADD/ADHD as we do here in the U.S.

As a matter of fact, stimulants in the U.S. are prescribed for ADD/ADHD at a rate of five times that of all the other world's countries combined.

The UN recently reported that between 3 and 5 percent of the schoolchildren in America are currently taking Ritalin.

But things are beginning to change.

More and more parents are beginning to learn about natural ADD supplements. They are beginning to seek alternatives to stimulants such as Ritalin, Cylert, and Dexedrine, or antidepressants like Prozac or Wellbutrin, or other commonly prescribed medications such as Desipramine and Clonidine.

Alternative Treatments and Natural ADD Supplements

Although the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD may be justified for some kids, it is felt that in a lot of cases the diagnosis is misplaced and undeserved.

Most kids are naturally active and curious -- it is the nature of the child. But in this daycare oriented society, the model child is the one who sits still all day and is seen, not heard.

The child who seems to be a bit overactive, the one who tries climbing the bookshelf, or the one who has a difficult time turning it off after coming in from the playground, risk the official diagnosis.

According to Ward Dean, MD, A major contributing factor to the ADD epidemic is the little-known fact that public (government) schools all have federally-supported programs for the learning disabled. The more children who are diagnosed with ADD, the more federal money the schools receive, giving public schools a tremendous incentive to maintain as high a number of children with ADD as possible.

So when it comes to natural ADD supplements, what is found to be effective?

A growing school of thought seems to point to your child's diet as a significant contributing factor in her inability to remain on task. Unfortunately, this subject is beyond the scope of our discussion.

However just briefly, a diet high in protein and fat (polyunsaturated) and low in carbohydrates, has been shown to add focus to hyperactive children.

As for the nutrients and homeopathic remedies that are gaining in popularity for their effectiveness, let's look at a few.

DMAE -- occurs naturally in such foods as sardines and anchovies (you feed them to your kids, right)? DAME has been shown to be a real brain booster.

Magnesium -- this mineral has been called the unappreciated mineral of life. Magnesium is responsible for activating the over 300 enzymes that are absolutely necessary for the biochemical reactions of our brain cells.

5-HTP -- this is what's called a precursor of (comes before and is required for the production of) serotonin. Serotonin is a brain neurotransmitter responsible for natural feelings of well being. Serotonin deficiencies have been linked to depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances as well as over eating and carbohydrate craving.

To learn more about these and other natural ADD supplements, be sure to check out our page on homeopathic remedies for ADD/ADHD.

You can learn about much more than just natural ADD supplements at our content rich site called Health Supplements Advisor.

How To Make Bubble Bath With Inexpensive Ingredients

2009-02-15T16:52:00.001+07:00

The luxury of soaking in a hot bath is a great stress reducer for many women. By adding certain scents, bubble bath, and essential oils to the bath water, we can create a totally relaxing experience or energize ourselves once again, depending on the products we use.

Unfortunately, many of the bath products available on the market are laced with harsh chemicals that can irritate our skin or even cause infections. You have to be careful in what you purchase and actually research your product choices carefully.

An alternative choice is to make your own bath products. By combining readily available ingredients along with a selection of essential oils, your bubble bath will help to enhance the softness of your skin, aid in stress reduction, and contribute to your mental health and well being.

What Ingredients Constitute Homemade Bubble Bath?

Let's look at some of the ingredients that you'll be using to mix up your own homemade bubble bath formula.

Distilled Water - You can purchase distilled water in most grocery stores. The benefit over using this type of water over regular tap water is that chlorine, all minerals and other impurities have been removed from it.

Liquid glycerin - This is a clear, thick liquid that is extracted from animal fats and vegetable oils, and is a by-product of soap manufacturing. It's purpose is to increase moisture and softness, plus it helps to create bubbles.

Castile Soap - This type of soap was originally made from olive oil although other types of oils can also be used, such as: coconut, almond, hemp, and jojoba.

Essential Oils - There are many oils that have many different purposes so you will need to research this area. For a soothing scent try oils like lavender, rosewood, sandalwood, chamomile, and myrrh. Some of the essential oils that can help you to feel energized and rejuvenated are eucalyptus, spearmint, peppermint, and lemon oil. Oils that are especially good at softening the skin include almond and coconut oil.

Simple Bubble Bath Recipe

Here is a very quick and easy recipe that anyone can make. Once you have it mixed, pour the mixture into an unbreakable bottle. As it doesn't have any chemical ingredients to preserve it, it would probably be safe to say you could store your bubble bath for one to two months.

1 quart warm distilled Water
1 Bar castile soap, grated
2 oz Liquid Glycerin
3 to 4 drops essential oil of choice

Mix the water and grated soap together until all the soap is dissolved. It's best to use warm to hot water for this, as it helps the soap dissolve faster. Add the glycerin and essential oil stir gently. This is safe to use for kids as well.

Bubble Bath For The Winter Months

We all know how miserable getting a cold or the flu can be. Here is a wonderful bubble bath recipe to soak in when you're sick since Eucalyptus can help your body fight cold symptoms and reduce congestion.

6 drops of eucalyptus oil
3 drops of spearmint oil
3 drops of peppermint oil
1 quart of distilled water (heated)
1 bar of castile soap. (4 oz. Bar), grated
4 ounces liquid glycerin

Mix the water and grated soap together until the soap has dissolved. Add the remaining ingredients, stir gently, and store in an unbreakable bottle.

Women are notorious for always being on the go and putting everyone else's health first. Just remember, it is also important that you take care of yourself as well. Allowing yourself to relax is part that care. Preparing your own homemade bubble bath with favorite essential oils is one great way to do this. Now go find that novel you?ve been wanting to read, take that deliciously soothing bath and melt away the stress of the day.

Rose Smith owns Total Beauty Tips, where you can learn to rejuvenate and revitalize your body with natural skin care solutions. We feature advice, products and information that will help make your total body feel smooth, soft and fabulous. Visit http://www.totalbeautytips.com to learn more.

Natural Weight Loss Product

2009-02-14T00:55:00.001+07:00

Pink Grapefruit essential oil - Latin, Citrus paradisi - cold pressed from the rind of the fruit is a cleansing and revitalizing tonic. The bright, crisp aroma of this essential oil energizes and uplifts your spirit. Pink Grapefruit is known to stop your food cravings, especially for sweets. If you need assistance with weight loss or weight management give Pink Grapefuit a try!

The bright, crisp aroma of this essential oil energizes and uplifts your spirit. I can't help but think of that Beatle's song, Ruby in the Sky with Diamonds, whenever I take a whiff of it because it sparkles just like diamonds and leaves me feeling all warm and happy inside.

Pink Grapefruit is known as a dieter's friend and is recommended for treating eating disorders and overweight or obesity issues.

I've noticed that it's especially helpful for controlling sweet cravings.

TIP FOR HOW TO USE:

Dispense 1-3 drops of Pink Grapefruit into the palm of your hand. Please use certified organic Cold Pressed oil from the rind of the fruit. Remember pesticides adhere to the surface of fruits and veggies and are not easily washed off.

Rub the palms of your hands together vigorously, cup your hands together and slowly inhale the Pink Grapefruit aroma. You can easily adjust the intensity of the aroma by increasing or decreasing the distance between your hands and nose.

Breathe in the aromatic scent of Pink Grape 5-20 minutes before eating. Be sure to drink an 8 ounce glass of water of pure fresh water after inhalation of the oils.

Blending with wild crafted Patchouli essential oil enhances Pink Grapefruit's effect as a natural appetite suppressant.

Use these same instructions to control sweet cravings.

Pink Grapefruit is also recommended for enhancing one's self esteem and definitely gives you an added sense of I can do it power!

Don't be surprised if you feel like a kid again after inhaling it. Envision what joys children have jumping up and down on their beds and you get the general picture.

I've used it successfully with overweight clients who say it not only helps to diminish their appetite, but also helps improve their digestion and metabolism.

Add a drop of Pink Grapefruit essential oil to your favorite shampoo for a lustrous shine to your hair. Pink Grapefruit can also help elimnate oily scalp, skin and hair conditions.

Pink Grapefruit make an excellent room freshener and deodorizer, as well as a disinfectant. Use it in a aromatic mist!

Please note: There are many cheap chemical copies of essential oils available, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results always use ethically wide crafted or pure, organic essential oils that are pesticide free!

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's DVD & book, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To learn more visit: Order Certified Organic Pink Grapefruit Please refer to KG's Essentials Safety Guide before using any aromatic oils! KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact:KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 ? Symptoms Causes and Treatment

2009-02-12T03:43:00.001+07:00

Special areas in the pancreas gland, the islets of Langerhans, produce a hormone called insulin. This hormone is a protein of small size. Insulin stimulates muscle cells and other body cells to take up glucose from the blood and convert the glucose to glycogen, a kind of starch, and then store the glycogen. By need the body cells convert the glycogen to glucose and use it as fuel. In this way insulin keeps the glucose level in the blood at a normal size.

By diabetes type I the cells producing insulin are destroyed. Then less glucose is taken up from the blood into the body cells and utilized there, and glucose accumulates in the blood.

THE CAUSES AND MECHANISMS OF DIABETES TYPE I

The cause of the disease is not well known. An auto-immune response attacking the insulin producing cells in the langerhansian islets may be a cause. Virus infection may be another cause. The disease also is to some extend inherited.

When the glucose uptake into the body cells is reduced, but glucose instead accumulates in the blood, the following physiological effects occur:

-The body cells do not get enough fuel for the work they shall do. -The molecular thickness (osmality) of the blood increases. This causes water to be pulled out from the body tissues and into the blood. The tissues thus get dried out and the urine production increases. -The tissues begin to break down protein and fat to get energy, causing weight loss and muscular reduction.

The symptoms of diabetes type 1 are a consequence of these mechanisms.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES TYPE 1

The disease often starts suddenly. Often children or young people are attacked by the disease. The lack of insulin causes an increased amount of blood sugar. Early symptoms of the disease are:

-Increased urine production
-Dehydration (lack of water in the body)
-Abnormally high thirst as a consequence of increased urine production
-Dryness in the mouth
-An abnormal high appetite
-Feeling extremely tired and weak
-Weight loss, even when one eats well
-Impaired vision

If the blood sugar level is not stabilized to a normal value, there will be an accumulation of chemicals in the body called ketones, and this condition is called diabetic ketoacidosis. This serious condition can lead to coma and death. The signs of ketoacidosis are:

-Vomiting,
-Pain in the stomach
-Rapid breathing,
-High pulse rate
-Somnolence (abnormal tendency to sleep)

In the long term, diabetes type 1 can severely hurt the blood vessels in vital organs. This can further cause damage to the heart, eyes, kidneys or other body organs.

TREATMENTS OF DIABETES TYPE 1

Diabetes type 1 is treated with insulin injections. Implanting insuline cells in the pancreas is an experimental treatment. Another experimental treatment is to implant stem cells in the pancreas that can develop into new insulin producing cells.

Another important module of the treatment is regulation of the amount of sugar and fat consumed through the diet so that it fits together with the insulin-amount injected. Also regular monitoring of the blood sugar level to regulate the insulin amount is an important part of the treatment.

There are also natural products in the market that can help to normalize the blood sugar level by diabetes type 2. Those products cannot heal the disease or replace insulin injections, but they can help the body to regulate the blood sugar level. These products contain minerals that are working components of enzymes that stimulate the glucose metabolism in the body. They also contain herbs that have been used for a long time in traditional medicine to regulate the glucose level and that have proven their effects in scientific studies.

About the Author:

Knut Holt is an internet consultant and marketer focusing on health items. TO FIND supplements for support by diabetes, anti-aging supplements, medicines against acne, eczema, rosacea and other skin problems and natural medicines against heart disease, hypothyroidism, hemorrhoids, depression and other common health problems, PLEASE VISIT ==>http://www.abicana.com/shop2.htm

Free to reprint with the author's name and link.

Solution to Obesity

2009-02-12T00:18:00.000+07:00

First of all we need to find out a reason for this growing mountain of fat that is killing us.

We know now that the traditional explanation - that of overeating - is wrong. People eat when they?re hungry, and they stop when they?re full. The problem lies in hormonal imbalance inside our bodies, an imbalance that deprives us of the energy to live life to the full, and instead stores the energy as fat.

What influences human hormonal balance? The three biggest factors are: genetics, diet, and stress.

There are no prizes for guessing which one of those three is the easiest to control.

The number one nutrient that negatively affects human hormonal balance is well known - it's sugar. The health and beauty of nations is directly related to its consumption. The per capita consumption of sugar has increased fifteenfold over the last 100 years.

Ever wondered why the French remain slim despite eating far more calories than we do, with their rich, fatty cuisine? That's right, it's because they drink wine instead of soft drinks!

It's very sad that this information - backed by genuine science - cannot realistically compete with advertising budgets of big sugar and soft drink producers.

Our only hope is the free press.

For more information on how to control hormones through diet, visit http://www.dietofnature.com.

Darius Mikolajewski is an Australian author of nutrition books and natural weight loss programs. For more information visit http://www.dietofnature.com

Natural Herbal Cures Ancient Treatments and Home Remedies

2009-02-12T00:11:00.000+07:00

There aren't many subjects I know as well as traditional chinese herbs. After all, I studied them for four years in school, prescribed them to patients, and wrote a book that spends a lot of time helping regular folks choose the right traditional chinese herbs for themselves.

Of course, traditional chinese herbs are best prescribed by a Chinese medicine herbalist. The reasons for this are numerous.

1. Traditional chinese herbs are usually taken in multiherb formulas

2. These chinese herb formulas are sometimes written from scratch for each individual patient

3. Even if a classical standard herbal formula is chosen, it takes the expertise of the herbalist to diagnose you according to Chinese medical theories and choose the appropriate traditional chinese herb formula

4. If the wrong traditional chinese herbs are used, the patient can get worse, or not heal and just waste their money.

Still, there are some traditional chinese herbs that almost anyone can take, that will promote health in nearly everyone. Many of them are well known already. The following is a list of traditional chinese herbs that are good for promoting health in most people. Still, you should consult with a local herbalist to be sure that they'll help you, not harm you.

Also, you should buy my book Powerful Body, Peaceful Mind: How to Heal Yourself with Foods, Herbs, and Acupressure and find out what other essential traditional chinese herbs you need to have at home before you need them.

Ginseng: this traditional chinese herb has been studied as much as any other chinese herb. It promotes healing, increases your energy level, and improves blood sugar profiles. However, too much (or any in the wrong people) can cause headaches, hypertension, and insomnia.

Ginger is a great digestion chinese herb. If you've had sushi, you know ginger is one of the two other things you eat with it- it promotes digestion, prevents nausea, and warms you up. It's also a nice adjunct for mild winter colds. You can cut up some of the raw form of this traditional chinese herb and boil it into a fresh, warming tea.

Astragalus is a energy and immune system booster. It's a good herb to take in the winter before you get a cold - don't take it after you get sick, but but before. It's also good for those who are tired and sweat without exertion.

Cinnamon sticks promote circulation, warm you up, and help you fight winter colds.

All of these can be boiled into teas.

There are many other traditional chinese herbs - we studied only about 500 of them in my four year Masters program, but there are perhaps 10,000 out there. Likewise, we learned about 200 major chinese herbal formulas, but there are hundreds more classical ones, and still more modern ones based on traditional plus pharmacological knowledge.

Traditional chinese herbs are not only great herbs, but part of a sophisticated system that treats everything from colds and sinusitis, to menopause and impotence, lupus and chronic fatigue, all the way to AIDS and cancer.

Brian Carter, MS, LAc is the founder of The Pulse of Oriental Medicine, teacher of medical terminology at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, and author of Powerful Body, Peaceful Mind: How to Heal Yourself with Foods, Herbs, and Acupressure. Visit his eBay herbal store, Natural Herbal Cures.

The Gift of Permanent Makeup: The Healing Power of Loving the Way You Look

2009-02-11T00:36:00.001+07:00

Poet, artist and philosopher Kahlil Gibran wrote in his book The Prophet ?Beauty is life when life unveils her holy face. But you are the life and you are the veil. Beauty is eternity gazing at itself in a mirror. But you are eternity and you are the mirror.? In these words he speaks of an age-old human struggle we have all faced, the struggle to see our own inherent beauty. Part of the Universal human experience is to learn how to love, appreciate and enjoy the way we look; our faces and our bodies are often judged by others when it is only our own opinion that truly matters. Loving the way you look can be a spiritual and healing experience, it can change the way you move and speak. It transforms the energy you project to others.

The Vanity Myth

There are many misconceptions when it comes to the practice of permanent makeup or cosmetic tattooing. It is the same myth that pervades the medical field of cosmetic and plastic surgery. There is a belief in America that if a person engages in procedures such as permanent eyeliner, permanent lipstick or other cosmetic changes that they are driven by vanity or are shallow inside. Although I agree that there is a portion of people who will never be satisfied with their appearance, I do not believe these people are the majority. Most of the clients I see in my practice are men and women who are in the process of learning to love themselves more and through this process they eventually gain more confidence and experience a better quality of life.

Let Your Natural Beauty Emerge

There are many reasons to have permanent makeup. Illness, injury and a desire for practicality, efficiency or increased confidence are just a few. All of these motivations have less to do with vanity and more to do with building self-esteem and self-appreciation. Loving yourself is a healing process and I am lucky to work in a field where I can participate in this process with my clientele. I work, not only with their faces but I also connect with their individual energy. I use my artistic eye for color and symmetry to apply the permanent cosmetics, but I also access my intuition in order to see what they see and to understand what they feel needs to change about their appearance.

A wonderful example of this process is a former client named Becky, a college professor and author. ?I have looked at myself in the mirror each day since you did my eyeliner and I am so happy with what looks back at me, ?Becky states, ?I knew I wanted to have the procedure done for esthetics and got a bonus of enhanced self esteem.? ?Thank you for your artistic, beautiful work that walks around with me everyday, collecting compliments whenever I reveal my secret,? she continues. In the end the goal is to create a look that doesn?t compensate for flaws or imperfections, but enhances what is most beautiful about the person naturally. Natural beauty exists within all people and bringing it to the forefront is the key to a great look. Then each day you look in the mirror to see your best facial features highlighted. This allows you to walk with your head high, to feel more comfortable in your own skin and to move forward in ways you may have avoided n the past.

Believe in Your Own Beauty

To achieve a beauty that you can believe in you must make choices to enhance the beauty that is already there. Everyone deserves to leave home feeling confident and excited about their own appearance. Permanent makeup is not a way to cover up the problems; it is way to help your best facial qualities and features to emerge. As you see this previously hidden part of you walk out into the light of day healing takes place and this healing energy can spread through the rest of your life.

Dawn Willard?s twenty-three year career in the fine and applied arts has included lettering, illustrations and photo and film styling. She has learned an array of artistic skills, one being makeup. Ms. Willard currently owns the Permanent Makeup Studio in Asheville North Carolina. She can be reached at http://www.DawnColors.com or starjump@gmail.com.

Look Natural Wear Makeup!

2009-02-03T22:39:00.001+07:00

Have you ever considered how difficult it is to look natural? Quite difficult ? isn?t it? Especially if there had been no makeup available to achieve it! Many-a-website points out how ordinary our glamorous celebrities look in real life without makeup on. No wonder then that they are always on the lookout for innovative makeup supplies. Such demands have seen a virtual makeover for the makeup business much to the delight of a demanding population yearning to look good.

The art and science of good makeup.

Makeup is still an art ? supported ably, of course, by science. Gone are the days when good makeup meant just soaps, perfumes and oils carefully selected after word-of-mouth recommendation. Today, your persona comes through in MAC makeup ? or was it Max Factor? Take your pick! Show off your gorgeous eyes - wear eye makeup. Impress your peers with a prom makeup worn specially for the nite.

Make a statement with a tattoo or a strategic permanent makeup. Take expert advice ? makeup tips are available for the asking. Desist from using chemicals which may harm your sensitive skin ? wear mineral makeup instead! Consider this ? you don?t have to wear stage makeup if you don?t need to flaunt your expressions under the arc lights to an audience.

Wear makeup ? an appropriate one. Or better still; don?t wear any ? especially if you are among the lucky few who can carry off that natural look ? naturally!

About The Author

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.beforeandafterpage.com/

Ohh La La Your Body Knows The Benefits Of Spa Treatments

2009-02-03T14:49:00.001+07:00

Spa treatment is becoming more and more popular these days. Spa treatment is not limited to beautification purpose, it offers several other benefits and this is one of the main reasons why most spa treatment is gaining such popularity. It can help to reduce stress, soothes your muscles, and provide overall relaxation for your mind and body. Visiting the spa provides an effective way of escapism from your tight work schedule to a world that is quiet and peaceful.

Most spas offer various treatments and it is vital from your part to select the best that suits your needs. Some of the most popular treatments include Massages, Facials, and full Body treatment.

Massaging is considered as an effective technique of body treatment. Massaging helps to lighten muscle rigidity, cramps, or tremors and help to alleviate tension and anxiety.

Types of massages

There are several types of massages that execute various functions for your body. The different types of massages include:

Swedish massage

Swedish massage includes a wide range of techniques for muscle relaxation. This is achieved by applying pressure to them against bones and muscles. Swedish massage helps to boost the oxygen flow in the blood and releases the pollutants from your muscles.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massage is performed on the deeper layers of one?s muscle tissue. This helps to releases chronic muscle tension from one?s body. Deep tissue massage allows proper circulation of blood and oxygen and releases toxins from your muscles. It also helps to eliminate scar tissues.

Sports massage

Sports massage is exclusively designed for sports personnel. A sports massage is done to reduce tension and stress, which develops in the body?s soft tissues mainly during bodily strain. It can be done before, during, or after an athletic event. Sports massage helps the athletes to reduce muscle tension, relieve swelling, and drain away exhaustion.

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy is a very useful and effective spa treatment. During aromatherapy massage one need to inhale essential oils through the mucosa of the nose and mouth. It is found that this type of massage offers several emotional and mental benefits.

Facial treatments

Facial treatments help to clean and cleanse the skin by dropping dead skin cells. Facials increase the smoothness of skin and maintain a good hydrated skin. There are different types of facial treatments. Such as:

Oxygenating Facial ? This treatment is perfect for those with dull looking skin. This type of facial features a vitamin formula that helps to restore tired skin.

Deep-Cleansing Facial ? this type of facial is targeted to skin type that generally utilizes a gentle botanical peel with essential oils.

D.N.A. Facial: this is a unique treatment for the skin, which helps to restore collagen. This helps to nourish tired skin.

Sea Beauty Facial ? this facial treatment helps to re-vitalizes one?s skin.

Body Treatment

Almost all spas offer body treatments. Body treatments are considered very important to your body as it helps to hydrate, nourish, and remove dirt from the inside your pores. Body wrap, body scrub, and body mask treatments are some of the most popular body treatments.

Body wraps may include moor herbal therapy treatment. Body scrub consists of massaging of the person?s skin with a blend of oil, salt, and aromatics like lemon. This eliminates the dirt from your skin and makes it smooth and soft. A body mask usually follows a body scrub.

To conclude, spa treatments prove to be a very effective way to provide relaxation for your mind and body. It is a perfect way to get relief from the strain of this high-tech world. Do your body a favor, and treat it to a spa treatment that it is right for you. Your body will be saying ooh la la!

Keisha Seaton is the owner of My Articles Directory. Visit My Articles Directory today to read more Beauty Articles, your body depends on it!

Reducing the Appearance of Wrinkles

2009-02-03T07:26:00.001+07:00

Wrinkles. One of the most dreaded words in the dictionary. At the first sign of a wrinkle, our reaction is pretty much universal. Horror! After we calm down, we begin to wonder just what we can do to eliminate this much dreaded effect of aging and how do we keep other newer and deeper wrinkles from following. If we already find ourselves with wrinkle mania in full bloom, we look for solutions to turn back the hands of time and restore our skin to its once youthful state. Fortunately, there are options available to us to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Let's take a moment to discover what causes these wrinkles. First and foremost, aging. As we grow older our skin naturally looses collagen and eslastin that help to keep our skin firm and taunt. Also, our skin cell reproduction slows down and the rejuvenating effect that new skin cells have on our skin?s appearance diminishes. These types of wrinkles are known as intrinsic, they cannot be avoided. It is Mother Nature at her best (or worst!). Other factors, like the environment and sun damage, can also cause skin to wrinkle. Smoking also causes the skin to produce less collagen, inevitably leading to an increase in wrinkles. These types of wrinkles are called extrinsic. They are life style choices that are, for the most part, under our control. These extrinsic influences are the leading cause of pre-mature aging patterns in our skin. Now that we know why we have wrinkles let?s talk about how to reduce them.

One of the more popular ways to reduce the appearance of wrinkles is plastic surgery. Not only are face-lifts an option but also there are now less invasive procedures, like chemical peels, laser treatments, and collagen injections. The number one procedure for reducing wrinkles used today by women of every walk of life is Botox? injections. Botox? works by relaxing the injected muscle and allowing those awful furrow lines and other deep wrinkles to all but disappear. This is temporary, though, and has to be repeated every few months.

Coblation is also an option for reducing wrinkles. Less invasive than surgery, radio waves are used to remove the top layer of the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. Although this procedure does leave you with newer, younger looking skin, it is not as effective as laser treatments. It is safer, though, and the healing process is considerably shorter since the radio waves do not go as deeply into the lower layers of skin.

Although all of the above mentioned remedies are good options, they are also expensive. There are a large variety of wrinkle reducing creams on the market today that contain ingredients like Retinal. These will help to firm your skin and lessen the look of fine lines, but not necessarily the deeper set wrinkles.

Brian Fong
http://www.NaturalVisage.com/

There are options available to us to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Choosing the Correct Hair Products for Your Hair

2009-02-02T23:39:00.001+07:00

When choosing your shampoo please look closely at the label. You should see all the materials and substances it was made of. The main thing shampoos consist of are detergents the surfactants that make foam show up when mixing with water and air.

Detergents.

Detergent is shampoo's basic and semantic component. After all the shampoo is intended to wash your hair, that's all. All the stuff that is above this definition is called medicated shampoos, conditioners, antiseborrheic shampoos and so on.

Though the amount of the foam does not determine the quality of the shampoo, the detergent has great influence on it. Nowadays few detergents that differ in its chemical structure exist. They are divided into anionic, cationic, nonionic and amphoteric.

Anionic detergents are most commonly used in shampoos and shower gels. They are cheap and have good purifying qualities. Anionic surfactants can be easily removed from the hair.

Cationic surfactants (with positive ions) are used not so often and have higher concentration. Some of them may cause eye irritation.

Amphoteric surfactants that contain positive or negative ions depending from shampoos pH are used for curing damaged and dry hair.

If we put in a line from worst to best we will get the following: Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, TEA Layril Sulfate, OAA Laureth Sulfate. So as you see last three surfactants are the best ones. On every shampoo's label such detergent is displayed first.

Conditioners

Conditioners are not shampoos but assistants. You can find them as a part of shampoos or in individual bottles. There are lots of conditioners that have different practical significance.

Moisturizers are assigned for dry hair because of their ability to draw moisture. Usually the components are proteins and vegetable extracts. Moisturizers are mostly made of lactoserum.

Reconstructors contain proteins like hydrolyzed keratin. It can easily come through hair shell due to its small molecular weight. Reconstructor conditioners are used when the hair is damaged (i.e after hairdressing)

Acidifier conditioners make your hair shiny and elastic. It gives an impression of boosted volume, but it is only an optical illusion. pH index is about 2.5-3.5.

Thermal protectors can be found in shampoos with Therm or Thermal prefix. (like Thermasilk). Its basis are special polymers that distribute warmth when are put on the hair. This is very helpful for people who use curlers and blow-dry often.

Hair conditioners can form a part of shampoo (so called 2 in 1). But the effect is less noticeable then after separate use. During simultaneous use you have lower chances for conditioner to work properly. As for using shampoos and conditioners of different producers.

Using the conditioner

Place conditioner on the hair, but not on the head.

When doing that you can massage the skin on the head with your fingers

If you have mixed hair you should work up only the tips.

After using the rinser that you should wash your head 2-3 times with warm and the last time with cold water.

Medicated shampoos

Medicated shampoos are used for curing illnesses, especially dandruff. Dandruff appears when the microscopical fungus (Malassezia Furfur) starts its activity. That?s why dandruff shampoos contain substances against seborrhea and antifungal agents.

Zinc Pirythione, Climbazole, Ketoconozole, Selenium Disulphide have antimicrobial effect against Malassezia Furfur that is supposed to cause dandruff appearance. Octopirox, Coal Tar, Selenium Disulphide suppress activity of cells that produce fat. Coal Tar, Sulphur , Salicylic Acid have keratolytic effect on the skin. In other words it is the capability to detach layers of dead cells that cause dandruff to appear.

Choosing a shampoo

First of all you must choose shampoo taking in consideration the type of your hair. Thus if you have dry hair you should buy moisturizing shampoo and so on. It is harder to choose when you got long hair of different types (oily hair at your roots and dry one at the tips). In that case cosmetologists suggest a new haircut.

It is obligatory to pay attention on the detergent. Which one is better you can see in the beginning of the article.

If you like the shampoo but it is not suitable for you try not to experiment with it.

If the hair is damaged (after the hairdressing) you should use shampoos with pH 4.5-5.5

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