Do you ever think about just how important good health really is? The decisions we make now may determine whether we have choices later.
Our bodies are constantly waging a 24 hour war against a myriad of microbes and toxins that continually try to sabotage our health. Our day to day survival depends on the state of our immune system. When it becomes impaired (as it often does), our risk of infections, autoimmune diseases and even cancer significantley increases - but that's just the tip of the iceburg. New research strongly suggests that undetected microbes can live in the body for years causing everything from heart disease to obesity.
Poor nutrition, stress, exposure to toxins etc., all hurt immune function.Consequently, diseases can take hold and life span is shortened and you may not even know it's happening. For example, sugar consumption impairs the ability of white blood cells to destroy bacteria. Likewise, even a relatively small deficincy of iron or selenium can considerably weaken immune function and many diets are lacking in these very minerals. And before you eat that cheese burger consider the fact that high fat diets can also compromise immunity.
Heart diease is not just an old person's diease. In the summer of 2002 Darryl Kyle a 33-year-old professional baseball pitcher died in his sleep. The autosy showed that he had 80% to 90% narrowing of two of the three cornary arteries. As important as exercise is, it is clearly not the entire answer. A scientific study found that every 15-year-old already had plaque build up! The obvious conclusion was that cardiovascular diease was starting in childhood.
The efficiency of our immune system will, to a large degree, determine our cardiovascular health. Nutrionally supporting our cardiovascular system with a combination of transfer factor and other key ingredients is something we can do to help insure a long healthy life.
Friday, December 1, 2006
Health and Longevity With BelAir Aromatherapy
1. Clean and Fresh Air
Bacterial allergens and other pollutants constantly in the air would mean that we are subjected to a long-term disease causing air environment, without protection. Bel’ Air aromatherapy can help eliminate the harm from such floating debris, effectively preventing onsets of airborne ailments such as allergies, rhinitis, asthma, and colds, thus giving you the air that is at once clean and fresh.
2. A Nutrients-Filled Atmosphere
Bel’ Air aromatherapy can produce plant essences and anions. These essences have antibacterial properties, purifying the air and reducing the pollution. They work to engender smooth and easy breathing, and a heightened sense of alertness, vitality and freshness. With each intake of breathe into the body, comes the aid that would at once enable you to dispel the common ailments of modern times, and for achieving a balance of mind and body working in harmony. Professor of the Physiology Department of Harvard University School of Public Health described anions that are found in the air as “Air Vitamins”. The more the anions there are, the greater the health benefits to a person's mind and body. With Bel’ Air aromatherapy, more nutrients are added to the air around you, enabling you to enjoy the refreshing benefits of a “bath in the forest” every day.
3. “Back to Nature” Therapy
All lifes have the innate ability to maintain their intrinsic balance. When the balance has at any time been upset, it would seek to be restored on its own. Bel’Air aromatherapy stimulates the human body by harnessing respective plant energies in the form of their essences to help the body maintain the state of energy balance of its being. This may be described as a “Back to Nature” therapy.
4. Body Circulatory Functions Management
Plant essential oils can act on the brain’s sympathetic nerves (main nerve) and have direct effect on the lymphatic system, increasing the energy in the lymphatic system, helping in the body’s management of toxins and enhancing regulation of blood flow. At the same time, it can the increase the vitality level of the lungs, leading to substantial increase of oxygen into the blood, enlivening and causing cell regeneration and strengthening immunity functions.
5. Home Environment Management
Can be used to get rid of mosquitoes, cockroaches, ants, fleas, spiders, insects and so on, and can prevent onset of diseases by contagion. They can be used to remove odors and secondary smoke, giving you a clean, comfortable and healthy air environment.
6. Mood Management
The arch enemy of our EQ management is stress. When emotions run riot, the health of mind and body would be affected. The natural fragrance from plant essential oils can calm nerves, and help you to relieve stress. You can then be completely relaxed, with a well-managed EQ, and the feedback to the inner body vitality can help to prevent development of mental ailments with emotional causes. The soothing fragrance can also help to relax and to induce sleep.
7. Preventive Healthcare
Bel'Air continuously develops new products that carry more healthcare benefits. In this way, aromatherapy products are not only endowed with the functions of air purification, germs elimination and mood management, they also deliver great benefits in terms of elevating the body immunity system and can improve various bodily ailments, thus achieving the medical function of preventive healthcare.
8. Cultivating the Lifestyle of Enjoyment
Bel’Air aromatherapy fills your life with a romantic ambience. The incomparable appeal and elegance of Bel’Air’s artistically crafted aromatherapy diffuser lamps are the result of a perfect integration that combines modern technology and timeless artistry. This is so as to render your life at once healthier and more enjoyable.
Uses and Applications of Bel’Air aromatherapy At A Glance
Improvement of environmental hygiene, neutralisation of odors, dissipation of secondhand smoke and air purification.
Immunity enhancement.
Lung vitality enhancement.
Improvement of respiratory functions, reduction of nasal allergic conditions and breathing problems.
Insect repellent and anti-bacterial action.
An aid for stabilisation of hormonal levels, enhancement of cellular vitality and anti-aging.
Invigoration of state of health and alertness, improvement of memory.
Induction of calmness, a state of relaxation, sleep, relief of headaches and sense of well-being.
Bacterial allergens and other pollutants constantly in the air would mean that we are subjected to a long-term disease causing air environment, without protection. Bel’ Air aromatherapy can help eliminate the harm from such floating debris, effectively preventing onsets of airborne ailments such as allergies, rhinitis, asthma, and colds, thus giving you the air that is at once clean and fresh.
2. A Nutrients-Filled Atmosphere
Bel’ Air aromatherapy can produce plant essences and anions. These essences have antibacterial properties, purifying the air and reducing the pollution. They work to engender smooth and easy breathing, and a heightened sense of alertness, vitality and freshness. With each intake of breathe into the body, comes the aid that would at once enable you to dispel the common ailments of modern times, and for achieving a balance of mind and body working in harmony. Professor of the Physiology Department of Harvard University School of Public Health described anions that are found in the air as “Air Vitamins”. The more the anions there are, the greater the health benefits to a person's mind and body. With Bel’ Air aromatherapy, more nutrients are added to the air around you, enabling you to enjoy the refreshing benefits of a “bath in the forest” every day.
3. “Back to Nature” Therapy
All lifes have the innate ability to maintain their intrinsic balance. When the balance has at any time been upset, it would seek to be restored on its own. Bel’Air aromatherapy stimulates the human body by harnessing respective plant energies in the form of their essences to help the body maintain the state of energy balance of its being. This may be described as a “Back to Nature” therapy.
4. Body Circulatory Functions Management
Plant essential oils can act on the brain’s sympathetic nerves (main nerve) and have direct effect on the lymphatic system, increasing the energy in the lymphatic system, helping in the body’s management of toxins and enhancing regulation of blood flow. At the same time, it can the increase the vitality level of the lungs, leading to substantial increase of oxygen into the blood, enlivening and causing cell regeneration and strengthening immunity functions.
5. Home Environment Management
Can be used to get rid of mosquitoes, cockroaches, ants, fleas, spiders, insects and so on, and can prevent onset of diseases by contagion. They can be used to remove odors and secondary smoke, giving you a clean, comfortable and healthy air environment.
6. Mood Management
The arch enemy of our EQ management is stress. When emotions run riot, the health of mind and body would be affected. The natural fragrance from plant essential oils can calm nerves, and help you to relieve stress. You can then be completely relaxed, with a well-managed EQ, and the feedback to the inner body vitality can help to prevent development of mental ailments with emotional causes. The soothing fragrance can also help to relax and to induce sleep.
7. Preventive Healthcare
Bel'Air continuously develops new products that carry more healthcare benefits. In this way, aromatherapy products are not only endowed with the functions of air purification, germs elimination and mood management, they also deliver great benefits in terms of elevating the body immunity system and can improve various bodily ailments, thus achieving the medical function of preventive healthcare.
8. Cultivating the Lifestyle of Enjoyment
Bel’Air aromatherapy fills your life with a romantic ambience. The incomparable appeal and elegance of Bel’Air’s artistically crafted aromatherapy diffuser lamps are the result of a perfect integration that combines modern technology and timeless artistry. This is so as to render your life at once healthier and more enjoyable.
Uses and Applications of Bel’Air aromatherapy At A Glance
Improvement of environmental hygiene, neutralisation of odors, dissipation of secondhand smoke and air purification.
Immunity enhancement.
Lung vitality enhancement.
Improvement of respiratory functions, reduction of nasal allergic conditions and breathing problems.
Insect repellent and anti-bacterial action.
An aid for stabilisation of hormonal levels, enhancement of cellular vitality and anti-aging.
Invigoration of state of health and alertness, improvement of memory.
Induction of calmness, a state of relaxation, sleep, relief of headaches and sense of well-being.
Herb Remedies
Herb remedies are made of natural substances that come from plants. Herbs have been valued throughout history. The Bible tells us Kings journeyed many miles to bring frankincense and myrrh as gifts for Jesus.
Indeed the Bible makes references to herbal medicine. In Ezekiel, Jesus says "the fruit of the tree is for man's meat, and the leaves for man's medicine."
Many plants have been found by science to have effects upon the body. One example is the bark of the willow tree. Years ago this bark would be steeped in hot water, the same way you would make tea. This hot drink somehow brought pain relief and helped to lower fevers. As time went by, scientists found that the bark of this plant contained something called salicin. This natural substance was eventually made into acetesalicylic acid, which is now known by the more common name of “aspirin.” This tree bark based home remedy is now the world’s top selling pain relief product.
Not all herb remedies come from tree bark of course. Ginseng and Kava supplements are made from the roots of those plants. In Ginkgo Biloba products, the tree’s leaves are used. Other herb remedies are made from flowers, seeds, mushrooms, leaves, cacti, bark, etc.
Coffee is made from ground coffee “beans” which are the seeds of a tree. Coffee contains caffeine, which stimulates the body. Tea comes from the dried leaves of various plants. Tea also contains caffeine. These may be helpful when trying to stay awake and alert, and not helpful at all when trying to get a good night’s sleep.
Throughout history, herbs and plants have been believed to have medicinal properties. Today medical researchers are proving that many herbs and plants do support good health. Some herbs have even been turned into medicines.
Foxglove is one example. In the past it was believed to help chest pains. Researchers eventually found that ingredient digitalis from foxglove. Digitalis is now a medicine that is widely used by doctors for heart related treatments.
Scientists turned a mold into the medicine named Penicillin. The bark of the Peruvian cinchona tree was believed to help the body fight off malaria and medical researchers eventually used it to make quinine sulfate.
However not all herbs and plants are good for you simply because they are “natural.” The tobacco leaf, for example, is a natural herb. Cigarettes were at one time advertised on television as being good for helping soothe a cough. The truth was just the opposite and we now know that tobacco can cause cancer.
On the other hand, some plants have falsely been labeled as being bad for you when they are actually good for you. Early settlers in America thought that if you ate tomatoes you would die from poisoning.
Scientific medical studies are the only way to prove how herbs work or do not work. Unscientific claims for or against a simple plant are absurd.
History provides some clues as to which herb remedies may help support good health. Ginkgo biloba for example may be the oldest herb known in human history. Fossils of ginkgo biloba trees have been found dating back to the Paleozoic era millions of years ago. In China, these tree leaves have been used as one of their most popular herb remedies for over five thousand years.
The Egyptians left us the Papyrus Ebers which are hieroglyphic writings about hundreds of herb remedies such as aloe vera. A Chinese herbal guide known as the Ben Cao is thought to have be recorded by Emporer Shen Nong around 2000 B.C. In India the study of Ayurveda (the science of life) also dates back to around 2000 B.C. The Greek doctor Dioscorides made a record called De Materia medica which tells the health effects of over 500 plants. Italy was where ingredients were first formulated in standardized dosages.
The Amazon rain forest is home to many unknown plants and herbs. Today scientists hope it could be home to many new herbal supplements that could lead to new medicines.
Every year science learns more about how herbs and plants are good for your health. It is becoming more and more as the Bible quote says, "the fruit of the tree is for man's meat, and the leaves for man's medicine."
Indeed the Bible makes references to herbal medicine. In Ezekiel, Jesus says "the fruit of the tree is for man's meat, and the leaves for man's medicine."
Many plants have been found by science to have effects upon the body. One example is the bark of the willow tree. Years ago this bark would be steeped in hot water, the same way you would make tea. This hot drink somehow brought pain relief and helped to lower fevers. As time went by, scientists found that the bark of this plant contained something called salicin. This natural substance was eventually made into acetesalicylic acid, which is now known by the more common name of “aspirin.” This tree bark based home remedy is now the world’s top selling pain relief product.
Not all herb remedies come from tree bark of course. Ginseng and Kava supplements are made from the roots of those plants. In Ginkgo Biloba products, the tree’s leaves are used. Other herb remedies are made from flowers, seeds, mushrooms, leaves, cacti, bark, etc.
Coffee is made from ground coffee “beans” which are the seeds of a tree. Coffee contains caffeine, which stimulates the body. Tea comes from the dried leaves of various plants. Tea also contains caffeine. These may be helpful when trying to stay awake and alert, and not helpful at all when trying to get a good night’s sleep.
Throughout history, herbs and plants have been believed to have medicinal properties. Today medical researchers are proving that many herbs and plants do support good health. Some herbs have even been turned into medicines.
Foxglove is one example. In the past it was believed to help chest pains. Researchers eventually found that ingredient digitalis from foxglove. Digitalis is now a medicine that is widely used by doctors for heart related treatments.
Scientists turned a mold into the medicine named Penicillin. The bark of the Peruvian cinchona tree was believed to help the body fight off malaria and medical researchers eventually used it to make quinine sulfate.
However not all herbs and plants are good for you simply because they are “natural.” The tobacco leaf, for example, is a natural herb. Cigarettes were at one time advertised on television as being good for helping soothe a cough. The truth was just the opposite and we now know that tobacco can cause cancer.
On the other hand, some plants have falsely been labeled as being bad for you when they are actually good for you. Early settlers in America thought that if you ate tomatoes you would die from poisoning.
Scientific medical studies are the only way to prove how herbs work or do not work. Unscientific claims for or against a simple plant are absurd.
History provides some clues as to which herb remedies may help support good health. Ginkgo biloba for example may be the oldest herb known in human history. Fossils of ginkgo biloba trees have been found dating back to the Paleozoic era millions of years ago. In China, these tree leaves have been used as one of their most popular herb remedies for over five thousand years.
The Egyptians left us the Papyrus Ebers which are hieroglyphic writings about hundreds of herb remedies such as aloe vera. A Chinese herbal guide known as the Ben Cao is thought to have be recorded by Emporer Shen Nong around 2000 B.C. In India the study of Ayurveda (the science of life) also dates back to around 2000 B.C. The Greek doctor Dioscorides made a record called De Materia medica which tells the health effects of over 500 plants. Italy was where ingredients were first formulated in standardized dosages.
The Amazon rain forest is home to many unknown plants and herbs. Today scientists hope it could be home to many new herbal supplements that could lead to new medicines.
Every year science learns more about how herbs and plants are good for your health. It is becoming more and more as the Bible quote says, "the fruit of the tree is for man's meat, and the leaves for man's medicine."
Air Fresheners Or Are They
For years I’ve prided myself on believing that I take a very natural approach to the wellness of me and my family. However, I recently ventured into the aromatherapy market and found out, much to my dismay, that I was wrong. One of the primary “no nos” was air fresheners. Let’s not even get started with all the petrochemicals and other chemicals that are in our other products like lotion, shampoo, conditioners, household cleaners, laundry detergents, and well you get the picture.
However, I thought that air freshener weren’t TOO bad, were they? Oh I was so wrong! I read an article recently by Lesley Grimwood, a registered aromatherapist and member of the Aromatherapy and Allied Practitioners Association. What I read convinced me further that aromatherapy is not just something to be taken lightly and sniffed at! I recommend you find her article and read it thoroughly. (Air Fresheners – Not To Be Sniffed At).
Unfortunately, now the word “aromatherapy” is being applied so loosely in our sales and marketing that “true” aromatherapy may have noses turned up at it because using quality essential oils cost quite a bit more. In fact, if you’ll notice the word aromatherapy is being applied to so many things including, yes, air fresheners.
What I found out from Lesley Grimwood’s article was that these so-called air fresheners are really just odor “disguisers” full of chemicals that are causing some maladies to occur in us. Since reading her article I really went proactive and decided that we would be ridding our home of all of these chemical-laden products. We did so in our yards, laundry products, cleaning, and now personal products. Every single one of the chemicals in these products, especially all the petrochemicals, invades our bodies and they don’t leave unless we do a thorough detoxification! Our poor pets suffer even more because they can get the chemicals we use on our floors into their bodies through their feet!
Here’s what was found in the Bristol University study on 14,000 pregnant women mentioned in Leslie Grimwood’s article: those who used air fresheners daily suffered 25 percent more headaches than those who only used them once per week. It also reported a 19% increase in post-natal depression, and the babies suffered too. Those under 6 months who were exposed daily to the air fresheners suffered 30% more ear infections and 20 percent were more likely to suffer from diarrhea.
Further findings how found how these air fresheners that are supposed to make our homes smell better and in the commercials give us the impression that we will FEEL better, do almost the opposite actually. The findings showed that there was increased anxiety, tension, headaches, depression, insomnia, diarrhea, etc. THAT is supposed to make us feel better?
Well, I have found the better alternative to these horrible air fresheners – essential oils diffused through a cold-air diffuser or mixed with spring water in an amber glass spray bottle. The incredibly great thing is that when essential oils are diffused into the air they don’t just make the air seem fresher, the air IS fresher. Different ones do different things but they do affect every facet of your body in a positive, healing way. The oils when diffused can be into every cell of your body within seconds.
The essential oils have adaptagenic qualities so that they seek out where they are needed in the body. An essential oil is the lifeforce of the plant similar to our blood and immune system so they adapt very well in our bodies. They don’t harm our bodies like the chemicals in these air fresheners are doing. Rather, they are helping our bodies while cleaning the air. Yes, I say CLEANING. The air really IS fresh after a diffusing of your favorite essential oils into the air.
Essential oils oxygenate and detoxify the blood in our bodies simultaneously. They create an environment where pathogenic organisms cannot live! With all the chemicals we’re getting into our bodies through all the products we have in our homes, in our yards, in our air, in our foods, our bodies are degenerating because they cannot get rid of these toxins without help. This then can lead to disease.
However, when we inhale the essential oils either through a diffuser or directly or even by applying them to our bodies (I even ingest orally some of the ones I use as does my husband and our dog) the oils cross the blood-brain barrier and clean out the petrochemicals!! They’re the only known substances that are able to do this!! And you just thought they smelled good!
So the next time you want to freshen things up in your home, try an essential oil instead and have true clean air!
DISCLAIMER: The only oils we use and refer to in ALL our articles are Young Living Essential Oils. We DO NOT use any others and do not state what we do about using essential oils in our articles about any other brands
However, I thought that air freshener weren’t TOO bad, were they? Oh I was so wrong! I read an article recently by Lesley Grimwood, a registered aromatherapist and member of the Aromatherapy and Allied Practitioners Association. What I read convinced me further that aromatherapy is not just something to be taken lightly and sniffed at! I recommend you find her article and read it thoroughly. (Air Fresheners – Not To Be Sniffed At).
Unfortunately, now the word “aromatherapy” is being applied so loosely in our sales and marketing that “true” aromatherapy may have noses turned up at it because using quality essential oils cost quite a bit more. In fact, if you’ll notice the word aromatherapy is being applied to so many things including, yes, air fresheners.
What I found out from Lesley Grimwood’s article was that these so-called air fresheners are really just odor “disguisers” full of chemicals that are causing some maladies to occur in us. Since reading her article I really went proactive and decided that we would be ridding our home of all of these chemical-laden products. We did so in our yards, laundry products, cleaning, and now personal products. Every single one of the chemicals in these products, especially all the petrochemicals, invades our bodies and they don’t leave unless we do a thorough detoxification! Our poor pets suffer even more because they can get the chemicals we use on our floors into their bodies through their feet!
Here’s what was found in the Bristol University study on 14,000 pregnant women mentioned in Leslie Grimwood’s article: those who used air fresheners daily suffered 25 percent more headaches than those who only used them once per week. It also reported a 19% increase in post-natal depression, and the babies suffered too. Those under 6 months who were exposed daily to the air fresheners suffered 30% more ear infections and 20 percent were more likely to suffer from diarrhea.
Further findings how found how these air fresheners that are supposed to make our homes smell better and in the commercials give us the impression that we will FEEL better, do almost the opposite actually. The findings showed that there was increased anxiety, tension, headaches, depression, insomnia, diarrhea, etc. THAT is supposed to make us feel better?
Well, I have found the better alternative to these horrible air fresheners – essential oils diffused through a cold-air diffuser or mixed with spring water in an amber glass spray bottle. The incredibly great thing is that when essential oils are diffused into the air they don’t just make the air seem fresher, the air IS fresher. Different ones do different things but they do affect every facet of your body in a positive, healing way. The oils when diffused can be into every cell of your body within seconds.
The essential oils have adaptagenic qualities so that they seek out where they are needed in the body. An essential oil is the lifeforce of the plant similar to our blood and immune system so they adapt very well in our bodies. They don’t harm our bodies like the chemicals in these air fresheners are doing. Rather, they are helping our bodies while cleaning the air. Yes, I say CLEANING. The air really IS fresh after a diffusing of your favorite essential oils into the air.
Essential oils oxygenate and detoxify the blood in our bodies simultaneously. They create an environment where pathogenic organisms cannot live! With all the chemicals we’re getting into our bodies through all the products we have in our homes, in our yards, in our air, in our foods, our bodies are degenerating because they cannot get rid of these toxins without help. This then can lead to disease.
However, when we inhale the essential oils either through a diffuser or directly or even by applying them to our bodies (I even ingest orally some of the ones I use as does my husband and our dog) the oils cross the blood-brain barrier and clean out the petrochemicals!! They’re the only known substances that are able to do this!! And you just thought they smelled good!
So the next time you want to freshen things up in your home, try an essential oil instead and have true clean air!
DISCLAIMER: The only oils we use and refer to in ALL our articles are Young Living Essential Oils. We DO NOT use any others and do not state what we do about using essential oils in our articles about any other brands
Honey Natural Treatment for Gum Disease
There is quite a bit of talk going on about the antimicrobial properties of the sweetener, Xylitol, which is a product manufactured from cornstalks. The dental hygienist community (discussion groups) is where I am seeing most of this and my understanding is that it is a pretty good product as a sweetener and good for your teeth and gums. Something made me think, however, about going more natural and 'honey' came to mind. I wondered about the antimicrobial properties of this natural and healthy food and what I found really surprised me!
I was abble to learn quite a bit about honey's properties - Yes, honey is a good antimicrobial and has a great number of applications for treating all sorts of ailments aside from gum disease. Everything from eczema to prostate problems are being effectively treated with honey... Honey!
Before you run to the cupboard, however, you should know that the variety of honeys are widely varied in their effectiveness, so not all types are the same.
Some honeys are apparently no better for your teeth than refined sugar, but at the other end of the spectrum, there are varieties which are outstanding for their antimicrobial properties. It appears that the majority of research on honey's antimicrobial properties and effectiveness in treating gum disease come out of New Zealand in the past dozen years. Most of this may be attributable to Dr. Peter C. Molan, Associate Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Waikato, New Zealand.
"Honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide which is believed to be the main reason for the antimicrobial activity of honey. Types of honey differ greatly in their antimicrobial potency, varying as much as a hundred fold. The research has shown that honey not only stops the growth of the dental plaque bacteria, it reduces the amount of acid produced, which stops the bacteria from producing dextran. Dextran, a component of dental plaque, is the gummy polysaccharide that the bacteria produce in order to adhere to the surface of the teeth."
Honey derived from the Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) tree, found in abundance in New Zealand, claims the highest potency of antimicrobial properties. In fact, Manuka honey's antibacterial factor is unaffected by enzymes in the body that destroy hydrogen peroxide components. (Normally, peroxide isn't considered a good antimicrobial, orally, because the body quickly dilutes it.) It also has an exceptionally high level of plant-derived antimicrobial activity. Antioxidants in honey also prevent the formation of free radicals and the nutrient supply of honey is an important factor in new tissue re-growth, having been damaged by infection.
In addition, a 'medicinal' honey has been developed in New Zealand and Queensland, Australia to fight against 'superbugs,' such as multiple-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), attributable to a reported 100 deaths a week in the UK, according to one report.
"Laboratory testing is required to establish the level of anti-bacterial activity in honey. The honey is compared with a standard reference antiseptic (phenol) for potency. So, for example, a honey with a rating of four would be equivalent in antiseptic potency to a four percent solution of phenol (carbolic disinfectant). Honey should have a rating of four or higher before it can be regarded as a 'Active Honey'. Laboratory tests have shown to be very effective against bacteria, the rating should be at least ten but does not need to be any greater. Honey New Zealand produces a range of Active Honeys: Manuka, Rewarewa and Wild Flora.
"Manuka honey has UMF (this stands for Unique Manuka Factor) in addition to the usual hydrogen peroxide anti-bacterial activity making it doubly potent. UMF honey is more effective than hydrogen peroxide against some types of bacteria. The level of UMF activity is found in laboratory testing by removing the hydrogen peroxide from the honey and using the same test method for testing an 'active honey'. A rating is found describing the anti-bacterial activity remaining in the honey after the hydrogen peroxide has been removed. This is called Active UMF 10+. UMF is an additional anti-bacterial component that is unique to Manuka Honey. No-one for the scientific discoveries of New Zealand active honeys has so far discovered the substance involved, so it is called UMF." (Honey New Zealand)
How is the honey used on the teeth? Some recommend simply rubbing it into the gums after brushing. Since Manuka honey retains it's antimicrobial properties when diluted up to 50 times, it may likely be able to be used as an oral irrigant (when diluted with distilled or filtered water) and directed between the teeth or sub-gingivally into periodontal pockets using an oral irrigator. However, since the honey can ferment, it is recommended that the solution be used immediately and not made up ahead of time and stored for later use. (It should be noted that honey is not to be given to infants under 24 months.)
For those who would like to see some science, here's a pdf file containing plenty of it: http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/pdfs/honeyresearch/bioactives.pdf In addition, you may go to the Waikato Honey Research Unit web site at: http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/honey/ .
One final note: Apparently many brands are calling themselves 'Manuka' honey. For the real thing, look for the UMF Trademark, even if it has 'UMF' in the name.
All our lives we've been told to stay away from sweets. Maybe now its time to do a hundred and eighty degree on that line of thought - at least with honey, anyway!
I was abble to learn quite a bit about honey's properties - Yes, honey is a good antimicrobial and has a great number of applications for treating all sorts of ailments aside from gum disease. Everything from eczema to prostate problems are being effectively treated with honey... Honey!
Before you run to the cupboard, however, you should know that the variety of honeys are widely varied in their effectiveness, so not all types are the same.
Some honeys are apparently no better for your teeth than refined sugar, but at the other end of the spectrum, there are varieties which are outstanding for their antimicrobial properties. It appears that the majority of research on honey's antimicrobial properties and effectiveness in treating gum disease come out of New Zealand in the past dozen years. Most of this may be attributable to Dr. Peter C. Molan, Associate Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Waikato, New Zealand.
"Honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide which is believed to be the main reason for the antimicrobial activity of honey. Types of honey differ greatly in their antimicrobial potency, varying as much as a hundred fold. The research has shown that honey not only stops the growth of the dental plaque bacteria, it reduces the amount of acid produced, which stops the bacteria from producing dextran. Dextran, a component of dental plaque, is the gummy polysaccharide that the bacteria produce in order to adhere to the surface of the teeth."
Honey derived from the Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) tree, found in abundance in New Zealand, claims the highest potency of antimicrobial properties. In fact, Manuka honey's antibacterial factor is unaffected by enzymes in the body that destroy hydrogen peroxide components. (Normally, peroxide isn't considered a good antimicrobial, orally, because the body quickly dilutes it.) It also has an exceptionally high level of plant-derived antimicrobial activity. Antioxidants in honey also prevent the formation of free radicals and the nutrient supply of honey is an important factor in new tissue re-growth, having been damaged by infection.
In addition, a 'medicinal' honey has been developed in New Zealand and Queensland, Australia to fight against 'superbugs,' such as multiple-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), attributable to a reported 100 deaths a week in the UK, according to one report.
"Laboratory testing is required to establish the level of anti-bacterial activity in honey. The honey is compared with a standard reference antiseptic (phenol) for potency. So, for example, a honey with a rating of four would be equivalent in antiseptic potency to a four percent solution of phenol (carbolic disinfectant). Honey should have a rating of four or higher before it can be regarded as a 'Active Honey'. Laboratory tests have shown to be very effective against bacteria, the rating should be at least ten but does not need to be any greater. Honey New Zealand produces a range of Active Honeys: Manuka, Rewarewa and Wild Flora.
"Manuka honey has UMF (this stands for Unique Manuka Factor) in addition to the usual hydrogen peroxide anti-bacterial activity making it doubly potent. UMF honey is more effective than hydrogen peroxide against some types of bacteria. The level of UMF activity is found in laboratory testing by removing the hydrogen peroxide from the honey and using the same test method for testing an 'active honey'. A rating is found describing the anti-bacterial activity remaining in the honey after the hydrogen peroxide has been removed. This is called Active UMF 10+. UMF is an additional anti-bacterial component that is unique to Manuka Honey. No-one for the scientific discoveries of New Zealand active honeys has so far discovered the substance involved, so it is called UMF." (Honey New Zealand)
How is the honey used on the teeth? Some recommend simply rubbing it into the gums after brushing. Since Manuka honey retains it's antimicrobial properties when diluted up to 50 times, it may likely be able to be used as an oral irrigant (when diluted with distilled or filtered water) and directed between the teeth or sub-gingivally into periodontal pockets using an oral irrigator. However, since the honey can ferment, it is recommended that the solution be used immediately and not made up ahead of time and stored for later use. (It should be noted that honey is not to be given to infants under 24 months.)
For those who would like to see some science, here's a pdf file containing plenty of it: http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/pdfs/honeyresearch/bioactives.pdf In addition, you may go to the Waikato Honey Research Unit web site at: http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/honey/ .
One final note: Apparently many brands are calling themselves 'Manuka' honey. For the real thing, look for the UMF Trademark, even if it has 'UMF' in the name.
All our lives we've been told to stay away from sweets. Maybe now its time to do a hundred and eighty degree on that line of thought - at least with honey, anyway!
Water The Best Medication Ever Created
How much water do you drink every day? The majority of people do not drink enough!
In 1995 Dr. F. Batmanghelidj. MD published his research on dehydration in a best selling book entitled “Your Bodies Many Cries For Water” which shocked the medical community and pharmaceutical industry. In this book the author shows medical evidence which supports his thesis that the majority of medical conditions stem from dehydration.
The research by scientists clearly shows that dehydration is one of the most common health maladies and the most easily preventable. The findings clearly demonstrate that quite often heartburn, rheumatoid pain, back pain, headaches and pains in the legs are all the result of dehydration. This is referred to as dyspeptic pain and is being thoroughly researched by scientists. This makes perfect sense if we study the physiology of the human body. Starting at the back of the lips and going all the way to the rectum is a mucosal lining. This lining covers the entire length of the digestive system and usually injuries to this lining precede serious disease conditions. The purpose of the lining is to filter out toxins and help transport food down the digestive tract. As this lining loses its elasticity and moisture the result is pain, aging and eventually disease.
In recent years the medical community has slowly been coming around to recognizing the truth in this brilliant research. However, the mainstream medical still ignores this research and its findings. The question you have to ask is can chemicals and high priced procedures heal the body when the problem could be chronic dehydration?
More research is being done. But the initial finds are conclusive. Sick people do not drink enough water every day. This is something worth thinking about and applying to your own health regimen.
Dr. Batmanghelidj theorizes that chronic cellular dehydration painfully and prematurely kills and that up until now the outward manifestations have been labeled as diseases of unknown origin. The great news is that there is a simple solution! Dr. Batmaghelidj suggests that you drink half of your body weight in ounces of water every day. This regimen will help keep the cells, joints and skin hydrated.
We’ve all heard the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Today we should consider adding to that statement “Without H2O you have been told, you will get sick, you will grow old.”
In 1995 Dr. F. Batmanghelidj. MD published his research on dehydration in a best selling book entitled “Your Bodies Many Cries For Water” which shocked the medical community and pharmaceutical industry. In this book the author shows medical evidence which supports his thesis that the majority of medical conditions stem from dehydration.
The research by scientists clearly shows that dehydration is one of the most common health maladies and the most easily preventable. The findings clearly demonstrate that quite often heartburn, rheumatoid pain, back pain, headaches and pains in the legs are all the result of dehydration. This is referred to as dyspeptic pain and is being thoroughly researched by scientists. This makes perfect sense if we study the physiology of the human body. Starting at the back of the lips and going all the way to the rectum is a mucosal lining. This lining covers the entire length of the digestive system and usually injuries to this lining precede serious disease conditions. The purpose of the lining is to filter out toxins and help transport food down the digestive tract. As this lining loses its elasticity and moisture the result is pain, aging and eventually disease.
In recent years the medical community has slowly been coming around to recognizing the truth in this brilliant research. However, the mainstream medical still ignores this research and its findings. The question you have to ask is can chemicals and high priced procedures heal the body when the problem could be chronic dehydration?
More research is being done. But the initial finds are conclusive. Sick people do not drink enough water every day. This is something worth thinking about and applying to your own health regimen.
Dr. Batmanghelidj theorizes that chronic cellular dehydration painfully and prematurely kills and that up until now the outward manifestations have been labeled as diseases of unknown origin. The great news is that there is a simple solution! Dr. Batmaghelidj suggests that you drink half of your body weight in ounces of water every day. This regimen will help keep the cells, joints and skin hydrated.
We’ve all heard the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Today we should consider adding to that statement “Without H2O you have been told, you will get sick, you will grow old.”
Natural Arthritis Pain Relief - By Doing Simple Arthritis Exercises
Treating arthritis is not easy.
Apart from the regular medication, proper diet, rest and relaxation, doctors also recommend arthritis exercises. These are specially designed exercises for people with different types of arthritis. Exercising is a must do for all people suffering of arthritis because it will help them increase the flexibility of the joints, increase bone vigor, muscle strength and energy levels, so they will have a better control of their weight and a strong heart. But most of all, exercising will help keep joints completely movable and will fortify the adjacent muscles. This way, arthritis sufferers will experience less pain when performing the everyday activities. So it is fair to say that arthritis exercises are strongly recommended for arthritis patients by all the doctors in the world.
But depending on the type of arthritis one person might have, the doctor will recommend a certain type of exercises. People should not choose the exercises program on their own; instead, always ask your doctor what exercises are recommended for their type of arthritis. Depending on the severity of the condition and which joints are affected, the doctor will propose a certain type of exercising program.
There are three types of exercises: range of motion, strengthening and endurance. Range of motion exercises, for example dancing, are the ones that move the joints in all directions, as far as possible. These are the easiest type of exercises recommended for all types of arthritis because they will keep the joints mobile and will prevent stiffness. Doctors advise their patients to perform a range of motion exercises every day, or at least every other day. The number and intensity of exercises can be gradually increased as the patient gets in shape.
Strengthening exercises include isometric and isotonic movements. Isometric exercises are the ones that work the muscles without moving the joints, while isotonic exercises work both the muscles and the joints. Both types of movements help with building strong muscles around the joints that are causing problems. Stronger muscles will better support the joints, meaning pain will be reduced and the patient will move more easily. Unless the patient has swelled joints or severe pains, the doctor suggests doing strengthening exercises every other day.
Endurance exercises are the ones that improve the cardiovascular condition by increasing the heart rate for at least 20-30 minutes. Not all arthritis patients can perform endurance exercises. Depending on the patient's age and physical condition, the doctor will recommend or not endurance exercises and also the type of exercises. Walking, bicycling or swimming are the best choices because their joints are not that stressed by these type of activities. For example, making exercises in warm water will help in two ways: the warm water will aid by decreasing the pain and relaxing the muscles, and at the same time the water will be supporting the body, this way placing less stress on the joints. Endurance exercises should be performed three times a week for about 20-30 minutes.
There are also other types of simple exercises that can be done by all arthritis patients. The every day activities can be easily transformed into arthritis exercises. In the morning when you get up and get dressed, try to amplify your movements, this way the morning stiffness of your joints will rapidly disappear. Also, take every chance to do some household activities like: wash the car or do the dishes because these movements will help decrease the pain from your joints. When you watch television, during the commercial breaks get up of your chair and do something; even small movements burn calories and help you reduce your weight. You can also park your car a little further away from office or home as walking will do you good.
Before beginning an arthritis exercises program, always consult an experienced doctor or a physical therapist. They are the ones that can advise what exercises are recommended for specific types of arthritis. They can suggest a particular type of exercises for inflamed and swollen joints or certain exercises for particular joints. The exercising program should be started with easy exercises, but the difficulty of the movements should be gradually increased. The patient should also be careful to thoroughly warm up before starting the exercises and cool down after finishing the program.
Although exercising is good for arthritis patients, occasionally some people can get into some uncomfortable conditions: augmented weakness, constant fatigue, joint swelling or pain that lasts more than one hour after exercises are finished. This means that exercises are too strenuous and the patient should talk to his doctor and make the necessary changes in his exercises program. After finding the ideal arthritis exercises program, the only thing that patients have to do is to strictly follow it and the improvements will soon appear.
Apart from the regular medication, proper diet, rest and relaxation, doctors also recommend arthritis exercises. These are specially designed exercises for people with different types of arthritis. Exercising is a must do for all people suffering of arthritis because it will help them increase the flexibility of the joints, increase bone vigor, muscle strength and energy levels, so they will have a better control of their weight and a strong heart. But most of all, exercising will help keep joints completely movable and will fortify the adjacent muscles. This way, arthritis sufferers will experience less pain when performing the everyday activities. So it is fair to say that arthritis exercises are strongly recommended for arthritis patients by all the doctors in the world.
But depending on the type of arthritis one person might have, the doctor will recommend a certain type of exercises. People should not choose the exercises program on their own; instead, always ask your doctor what exercises are recommended for their type of arthritis. Depending on the severity of the condition and which joints are affected, the doctor will propose a certain type of exercising program.
There are three types of exercises: range of motion, strengthening and endurance. Range of motion exercises, for example dancing, are the ones that move the joints in all directions, as far as possible. These are the easiest type of exercises recommended for all types of arthritis because they will keep the joints mobile and will prevent stiffness. Doctors advise their patients to perform a range of motion exercises every day, or at least every other day. The number and intensity of exercises can be gradually increased as the patient gets in shape.
Strengthening exercises include isometric and isotonic movements. Isometric exercises are the ones that work the muscles without moving the joints, while isotonic exercises work both the muscles and the joints. Both types of movements help with building strong muscles around the joints that are causing problems. Stronger muscles will better support the joints, meaning pain will be reduced and the patient will move more easily. Unless the patient has swelled joints or severe pains, the doctor suggests doing strengthening exercises every other day.
Endurance exercises are the ones that improve the cardiovascular condition by increasing the heart rate for at least 20-30 minutes. Not all arthritis patients can perform endurance exercises. Depending on the patient's age and physical condition, the doctor will recommend or not endurance exercises and also the type of exercises. Walking, bicycling or swimming are the best choices because their joints are not that stressed by these type of activities. For example, making exercises in warm water will help in two ways: the warm water will aid by decreasing the pain and relaxing the muscles, and at the same time the water will be supporting the body, this way placing less stress on the joints. Endurance exercises should be performed three times a week for about 20-30 minutes.
There are also other types of simple exercises that can be done by all arthritis patients. The every day activities can be easily transformed into arthritis exercises. In the morning when you get up and get dressed, try to amplify your movements, this way the morning stiffness of your joints will rapidly disappear. Also, take every chance to do some household activities like: wash the car or do the dishes because these movements will help decrease the pain from your joints. When you watch television, during the commercial breaks get up of your chair and do something; even small movements burn calories and help you reduce your weight. You can also park your car a little further away from office or home as walking will do you good.
Before beginning an arthritis exercises program, always consult an experienced doctor or a physical therapist. They are the ones that can advise what exercises are recommended for specific types of arthritis. They can suggest a particular type of exercises for inflamed and swollen joints or certain exercises for particular joints. The exercising program should be started with easy exercises, but the difficulty of the movements should be gradually increased. The patient should also be careful to thoroughly warm up before starting the exercises and cool down after finishing the program.
Although exercising is good for arthritis patients, occasionally some people can get into some uncomfortable conditions: augmented weakness, constant fatigue, joint swelling or pain that lasts more than one hour after exercises are finished. This means that exercises are too strenuous and the patient should talk to his doctor and make the necessary changes in his exercises program. After finding the ideal arthritis exercises program, the only thing that patients have to do is to strictly follow it and the improvements will soon appear.
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