Acupuncture Therapy
Chinese medicine is responsible for a number of natural therapies, and acupuncture is probably the best known of them. Basically, acupuncture works on the theory that your body contains energy centers at specific, strategic points. These energy centers are then linked to a particular part of the body. If you have a sore knee, for example, then the acupuncturist would locate the energy center links to that knee. This could well be located in a completely different part of the body. That's the point where very thin needles are then inserted to stimulate the energy center. The result? The pain in your knee is reduced or removed entirely, by accessing the central nervous system through the acupuncture point.
Acupuncture is used to treat many conditions, but pain relief is the most common. It's an odd concept - inserting needles into your body to reduce pain! But plenty of people find acupuncture. It's believed that as well as stimulating energy centers, acupuncture stimulates the production of endorphins, known as "feel good" chemicals, which also helps reduce the pain.
Other research has shown that acupuncture can assist the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells. It's also been shown that Alpha, Beta and Gamma Globulins increase after acupuncture therapy, and these assist in fighting infection and producing immune antibodies. Recently, acupuncture has been used to assist people recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. Acupuncture focuses on reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, tension, and inducing a feeling of relaxation.
Sports people at the highest level have turned to acupuncture therapy to help improve both their training and performance. Muscle tension inhibits performance, and acupuncture releases tension in both muscles and the surround tissue, as well improving the efficiency of the nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Acupuncture can also be used to speed up recovery rates from injury and manage pain.
Allergies also respond well to acupuncture therapy. Harmless substances can cause the immune system to overreact, leading to an allergic reaction. Many allergies are triggered by common environmental factors such as dust, pollen and chemicals. Many people also suffer from food allergies, which can be triggered by wheat, milk and shellfish, amongst other things. Allergies are uncomfortable - stuffy nose, watery eyes and sneezing. In some sufferers, allergy reaction can result in extreme symptoms such as kidney problems, joint pain and depression. Detoxifying the body and strengthening the immune system with acupuncture helps reduce or eliminate allergic reactions.
Many people turn to acupuncture therapy for more serious issues, such as bronchitis, asthma, hypertension and ulcers. Western medicine struggles to understand how acupuncture manages to be so effective, but the results speak for themselves. Some suggest that believing acupuncture will work is the reason it does, but that hasn't been proven. Sometimes, for more chronic conditions, massage and herbal remedies are used together with acupuncture therapy.
Other health issues that often respond well to acupuncture include PMS, chronic fatigue syndrome, stress, menopause and menstruation problems. If you're interested in trying acupuncture therapy, find yourself a reputable local practitioner, then ring and have a chat with them about your health problems. This will give them the opportunity to say whether or not they think acupuncture can help you. The only way to know for sure is to give it a go.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Best Natural Acne Treatments Ever
Finding the best natural acne treatments ever really depends on who is looking. The mistaken notion is that teens mainly fall victim to acne.
However, you may be surprised to know that 80% of adults between 25-39 suffer with acne. Some still wage the acne battle well into their forties.
The dilemma for this group of acne sufferers is that they are seeking treatment that was formulated for a younger age group. They are using treatment for their acne that was made with younger skin in mind. More oilier skin.
The more mature acne sufferer is caught out. In a way they are forced to seek alternatives in the natural arena. This is not a bad alternative.
Natural medicines are toxic free and tend to zero in on the underlying causes. While the over the counter acne medications tend to zero in on symptoms only.
It is easy for this group to find the information for themselves on the internet. And many prefer to make their own concoctions to fight their acne battle.
The most all round, versatile acne treatment is Aloe Vera. This miracle plant can stand alone when battling many of todays diseases. Acne included.
It has healing properties that are second to none. It has been known to reduce inflammation, and hold acne off from an imminent attack. So it can also prevent the spread of acne.
Aloe Vera Gel stands out as one of the best natural acne treatments we can have in our arsenal. It also mixes well with other potent natural treatments.
Although Aloe Vera can be used as a moisturizer by itself, it can also be added to most any other product.
Acne brings with it pain, irritation, and pustules. Certain healing herbs can be made into a poultice and applied to the affected areas.
A really ancient but effective treatment is the use of the leaves of the strawberry plant.
Moisten the leaves with water and put them directly on the affected areas. You can even mash up the strawberry and apply it as a paste to the face.
Dandelion is very effective in fighting acne. Use the complete dandelion plant. Root, leaves, and stem. Chop, boil, simmer and then strain the dandelion. Use the liquid as a tea and/or apply it directly to the affected areas.
The best natural acne treatments are great because like dandelion, many can be used internally as well as externally.
It is a given that when acne surfaces there are internal problems that manifest themselves externally.
A singular focus on the skin is not a wholesome way to approach acne treatment. A two pronged attack is the way to go.
A wonderful penetrative agent is Tea Tree Oil. It can go very deep into the skin and spread its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Diet is another crucial plank. Fresh pumpkins and carrots loaded with beta carotene strengthen the immune system. Vitamins A, B complex and E uphold the integrity of the skin. Mix these with regular exercise and you are fortified against acne.
However, you may be surprised to know that 80% of adults between 25-39 suffer with acne. Some still wage the acne battle well into their forties.
The dilemma for this group of acne sufferers is that they are seeking treatment that was formulated for a younger age group. They are using treatment for their acne that was made with younger skin in mind. More oilier skin.
The more mature acne sufferer is caught out. In a way they are forced to seek alternatives in the natural arena. This is not a bad alternative.
Natural medicines are toxic free and tend to zero in on the underlying causes. While the over the counter acne medications tend to zero in on symptoms only.
It is easy for this group to find the information for themselves on the internet. And many prefer to make their own concoctions to fight their acne battle.
The most all round, versatile acne treatment is Aloe Vera. This miracle plant can stand alone when battling many of todays diseases. Acne included.
It has healing properties that are second to none. It has been known to reduce inflammation, and hold acne off from an imminent attack. So it can also prevent the spread of acne.
Aloe Vera Gel stands out as one of the best natural acne treatments we can have in our arsenal. It also mixes well with other potent natural treatments.
Although Aloe Vera can be used as a moisturizer by itself, it can also be added to most any other product.
Acne brings with it pain, irritation, and pustules. Certain healing herbs can be made into a poultice and applied to the affected areas.
A really ancient but effective treatment is the use of the leaves of the strawberry plant.
Moisten the leaves with water and put them directly on the affected areas. You can even mash up the strawberry and apply it as a paste to the face.
Dandelion is very effective in fighting acne. Use the complete dandelion plant. Root, leaves, and stem. Chop, boil, simmer and then strain the dandelion. Use the liquid as a tea and/or apply it directly to the affected areas.
The best natural acne treatments are great because like dandelion, many can be used internally as well as externally.
It is a given that when acne surfaces there are internal problems that manifest themselves externally.
A singular focus on the skin is not a wholesome way to approach acne treatment. A two pronged attack is the way to go.
A wonderful penetrative agent is Tea Tree Oil. It can go very deep into the skin and spread its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Diet is another crucial plank. Fresh pumpkins and carrots loaded with beta carotene strengthen the immune system. Vitamins A, B complex and E uphold the integrity of the skin. Mix these with regular exercise and you are fortified against acne.
Is There a Natural Cure for High Blood Pressure
Of all the medical problems facing us today there is probably none more talked about then high blood pressure.
I seems that we all know someone who is on some type of blood pressure reducing medication. Yet there is a surprising reluctance on the part of many to actually find out about the problems posed by high blood pressure and the side effects of medication.
The most natural approaches are centred around diet and lifestyle. It is no surprise that a healthy diet underpins all approaches to controlling blood pressure. It does not warrant covering the basic principles, but for summary purposes a healthy diet has the following key hallmarks:
Fresh fruit and vegetables. At least 5 portions of each per day.
Restricted intake of fats. This means no fatty take aways, cookies, chocolates. Particularly, dieticians advise us to avoid "trans fats". These are the harmful "sticky" fats that cling to the artery walls restricting blood flow and therefore increasing blood pressure. low Cholesterol diets are a central consideration.
Plenty of exercise which increases aerobic capacity. Trainers and exercise physiologists are a great source of inspiration as well as specifically tailored exercise regimes that can target high blood pressure.
One of the greatest contributors to high blood pressure is stress. There is no doubt that if we can control the level of stress in our lives we would be well on the way to a longer and healthier life. So what can we don/ here is where I turn to the East. Yoga is one of the most singularly effective and valuable natural cure we can avail ourselves of. Although there are many physical benefits resulting from the wonderful stretches Yoga brings us, it is the mental side that possibly offers the greatest benefit. The meditation elements of just about all Yoga programs can bring about great relief from day to day stress and I strongly urge you to enrol in a local class.
Although there is plenty of information on the net, including books, videos and written programs, my experience is that the traditional Yoga masters handed down their teaching methods through a highly developed method. The benefit of this is clearly evident when you attend a traditionally trained Yoga Teacher. I have had some disastrous experiences from instructors who combine Yoga with other exercise regimes like Gym based exercises. In fact some have bee downright dangerous.
A specially trained Instructor will be able to advise which postures are suitable for your condition. Most inverted postures are avoided in high blood pressure cases, until the other benefits have manifested themselves.
In combining all these approaches, my preference is to do so in conjunction with traditional western medicine because you will be able to monitor your blood pressure whilst using a medical model. When the benefits start to become evident, concentrate on Natural methods for a longer happier life.
I seems that we all know someone who is on some type of blood pressure reducing medication. Yet there is a surprising reluctance on the part of many to actually find out about the problems posed by high blood pressure and the side effects of medication.
The most natural approaches are centred around diet and lifestyle. It is no surprise that a healthy diet underpins all approaches to controlling blood pressure. It does not warrant covering the basic principles, but for summary purposes a healthy diet has the following key hallmarks:
Fresh fruit and vegetables. At least 5 portions of each per day.
Restricted intake of fats. This means no fatty take aways, cookies, chocolates. Particularly, dieticians advise us to avoid "trans fats". These are the harmful "sticky" fats that cling to the artery walls restricting blood flow and therefore increasing blood pressure. low Cholesterol diets are a central consideration.
Plenty of exercise which increases aerobic capacity. Trainers and exercise physiologists are a great source of inspiration as well as specifically tailored exercise regimes that can target high blood pressure.
One of the greatest contributors to high blood pressure is stress. There is no doubt that if we can control the level of stress in our lives we would be well on the way to a longer and healthier life. So what can we don/ here is where I turn to the East. Yoga is one of the most singularly effective and valuable natural cure we can avail ourselves of. Although there are many physical benefits resulting from the wonderful stretches Yoga brings us, it is the mental side that possibly offers the greatest benefit. The meditation elements of just about all Yoga programs can bring about great relief from day to day stress and I strongly urge you to enrol in a local class.
Although there is plenty of information on the net, including books, videos and written programs, my experience is that the traditional Yoga masters handed down their teaching methods through a highly developed method. The benefit of this is clearly evident when you attend a traditionally trained Yoga Teacher. I have had some disastrous experiences from instructors who combine Yoga with other exercise regimes like Gym based exercises. In fact some have bee downright dangerous.
A specially trained Instructor will be able to advise which postures are suitable for your condition. Most inverted postures are avoided in high blood pressure cases, until the other benefits have manifested themselves.
In combining all these approaches, my preference is to do so in conjunction with traditional western medicine because you will be able to monitor your blood pressure whilst using a medical model. When the benefits start to become evident, concentrate on Natural methods for a longer happier life.
Health Benefits Of Green Tea
Green tea has been in use in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, it has been used for centuries as a stimulant, astringent and to improve heart health. It is an effective remedy for rheumatoid arthritis, and certain immune deficiencies. Research by the scientific world first confirmed it's health benefits only about a decade ago.
One main advantage is that it comes cheaper than many medicines and it is herbal. It has been researched a lot. Research shows that the most powerful antioxidant compounds in it are the polyphenols. They are flavonoids (catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate(EGCG), and proanthocyanidins). Catechins in it are over 200 times more powerful than vitamin E and helps in neutralizing the pro-oxidants and free radicals that attack lipids in the brain. Catechins are also more potent than vitamin C. It is rich in vitamin C. EGCG is said to be brain permeable, and it protects the brain.
Green tea and alzheimers
EGCG decreased production of beta-amyloid, a protein that forms the plaques that clog the brains of Alzheimer's victims. Drinking more than two cups of it a day could cut the risk of dementia by half, had a 50 per cent lower chance of having cognitive impairment, compared to those who drank less than three cups a week. A British study found that drinking it inhibited three important brain-harming chemicals: acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and beta-secretase. They are associated with breaking down chemical messengers and forming plaques and protein deposits in the noggin's gray matter which hinders clear thinking.
Green tea and arthrosclerosis
Artherscloerosis will initiate heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Green tea has been extensively tested and been found to be highly beneficial in the reduction of blood pressure and aiding the recovery of heart attack victims. It also inhibits the unnatural formation of blood clots which have been known to cause thrombosis and stroke. Drinking it represses angiotensin II which leads to high blood pressure.
Green tea and autoimmune disorder
It protects from autoimmune disorders like xerostamina. It helps in reducing auto antigen levels in healthy cells while not in tumor cells and thus protecting the healthy cells.
Green tea and cancer
It helps in fighting as well as preventing cancer. Cancer is lower in countries where they drink lots of green tea. EGCG inhibit cancer by blocking the formation of cancer-causing compounds and suppressing the activation of carcinogens. It also inhibits cancer cells from growing. It binds to a specific enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase, in the body. Egcg helps in killing cancerous cells and stops its progression without attacking normal cells. There have been many studies that have shown that catechins in it are effective at preventing cancer. It helps in fighting bladder cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer,
Green tea and cholesterol
Drinking it helps to keep cholesterol on a healthy level by its inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of cholesterol and promote its excretion from the body. It also helps against clot related strokes. At least 5 cups a day are recommended.
Green tea and diabetes
People who drink lots of green tea or coffee every day could lower their risk of diabetes by 33 percent. Green tea polyphenols and polysaccharides are good in the reduction of blood sugar. The researchers who conducted test on rat concluded that results clearly show intervention with it can significantly decrease visceral fat deposit and increase insulin sensitivity.
Green tea and liver disease
Those who drink it daily are less likely to get disorders in the liver. It also appears to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol. It may help treat inflammation of the liver. , protecting fatty livers from injury while reducing liver fat content by about 55 percent protect patients recovering from liver transplant. It can be a useful supplement in the treatment of liver disease and should be considered for liver conditions in which pro inflammatory and oxidant stress responses are dominant.
Green tea and skin care
It is anti-bacterial and helps in fighting acne and reduces inflammation. It protects the skin from the damage caused by ionizing radiation and aids in detoxification.
Green tea and weight loss
It helps in boosting metabolism and burn fat. It has thermogenic attributes which helps to raise the body temperature and burn calories up to 80 calorie daily. It also helps in fat oxidation. It helps in weight loss without raising heart beat. The thermogenic compound in green tea is caffeine. Other similar components in it that boost metabolism are theobromine and theophylline even though they are found in only small quantities . Recommended dose is 5 cups daily
Green tea and viral infection
EGCG strongly inhibited the replication of the HIV virus by blocking the binding of HIV envelope glycoprotein to human CD4 molecules on human T cells. Since this is, the first step in HIV infection it helps in preventing the first step in HIV infection. L-theanine in green tea triggers our body to produce 10 times their normal output of virus-battling interferon. Even gargling with it is effective when you have flu . They have strong antibacterial qualities.
Green tea side effects
Its extract has shown to be non-toxic but excessive amounts of caffeine from it may cause irritability, insomnia, heart palpitation, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache, loss of appetite, dizziness and nausea. . It has been in use for 5000 years and not much side effects noted other than caffeine content in it. If you are wary of caffeine you can take a decaffeinated green tea.
One main advantage is that it comes cheaper than many medicines and it is herbal. It has been researched a lot. Research shows that the most powerful antioxidant compounds in it are the polyphenols. They are flavonoids (catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate(EGCG), and proanthocyanidins). Catechins in it are over 200 times more powerful than vitamin E and helps in neutralizing the pro-oxidants and free radicals that attack lipids in the brain. Catechins are also more potent than vitamin C. It is rich in vitamin C. EGCG is said to be brain permeable, and it protects the brain.
Green tea and alzheimers
EGCG decreased production of beta-amyloid, a protein that forms the plaques that clog the brains of Alzheimer's victims. Drinking more than two cups of it a day could cut the risk of dementia by half, had a 50 per cent lower chance of having cognitive impairment, compared to those who drank less than three cups a week. A British study found that drinking it inhibited three important brain-harming chemicals: acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and beta-secretase. They are associated with breaking down chemical messengers and forming plaques and protein deposits in the noggin's gray matter which hinders clear thinking.
Green tea and arthrosclerosis
Artherscloerosis will initiate heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Green tea has been extensively tested and been found to be highly beneficial in the reduction of blood pressure and aiding the recovery of heart attack victims. It also inhibits the unnatural formation of blood clots which have been known to cause thrombosis and stroke. Drinking it represses angiotensin II which leads to high blood pressure.
Green tea and autoimmune disorder
It protects from autoimmune disorders like xerostamina. It helps in reducing auto antigen levels in healthy cells while not in tumor cells and thus protecting the healthy cells.
Green tea and cancer
It helps in fighting as well as preventing cancer. Cancer is lower in countries where they drink lots of green tea. EGCG inhibit cancer by blocking the formation of cancer-causing compounds and suppressing the activation of carcinogens. It also inhibits cancer cells from growing. It binds to a specific enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase, in the body. Egcg helps in killing cancerous cells and stops its progression without attacking normal cells. There have been many studies that have shown that catechins in it are effective at preventing cancer. It helps in fighting bladder cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer,
Green tea and cholesterol
Drinking it helps to keep cholesterol on a healthy level by its inhibitory effect on the intestinal absorption of cholesterol and promote its excretion from the body. It also helps against clot related strokes. At least 5 cups a day are recommended.
Green tea and diabetes
People who drink lots of green tea or coffee every day could lower their risk of diabetes by 33 percent. Green tea polyphenols and polysaccharides are good in the reduction of blood sugar. The researchers who conducted test on rat concluded that results clearly show intervention with it can significantly decrease visceral fat deposit and increase insulin sensitivity.
Green tea and liver disease
Those who drink it daily are less likely to get disorders in the liver. It also appears to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol. It may help treat inflammation of the liver. , protecting fatty livers from injury while reducing liver fat content by about 55 percent protect patients recovering from liver transplant. It can be a useful supplement in the treatment of liver disease and should be considered for liver conditions in which pro inflammatory and oxidant stress responses are dominant.
Green tea and skin care
It is anti-bacterial and helps in fighting acne and reduces inflammation. It protects the skin from the damage caused by ionizing radiation and aids in detoxification.
Green tea and weight loss
It helps in boosting metabolism and burn fat. It has thermogenic attributes which helps to raise the body temperature and burn calories up to 80 calorie daily. It also helps in fat oxidation. It helps in weight loss without raising heart beat. The thermogenic compound in green tea is caffeine. Other similar components in it that boost metabolism are theobromine and theophylline even though they are found in only small quantities . Recommended dose is 5 cups daily
Green tea and viral infection
EGCG strongly inhibited the replication of the HIV virus by blocking the binding of HIV envelope glycoprotein to human CD4 molecules on human T cells. Since this is, the first step in HIV infection it helps in preventing the first step in HIV infection. L-theanine in green tea triggers our body to produce 10 times their normal output of virus-battling interferon. Even gargling with it is effective when you have flu . They have strong antibacterial qualities.
Green tea side effects
Its extract has shown to be non-toxic but excessive amounts of caffeine from it may cause irritability, insomnia, heart palpitation, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache, loss of appetite, dizziness and nausea. . It has been in use for 5000 years and not much side effects noted other than caffeine content in it. If you are wary of caffeine you can take a decaffeinated green tea.
Varieties of Acupuncture Practiced Today
Originally developed in China, the ancient practice of acupuncture became popular as a method of bodily ailment relief. Soon this art spread to other countries and diversified in to new modified forms.
Korea, Vietnam, Japan, then Europe and America took up acupuncture and changed it to varying degrees based upon the countries different looks at the theory and techniques involved.
Basic underlying theoretical principals always remain the same but some styles of acupuncture vary greatly with diagnosis and technique. As yet there is no evidence that any one style of acupuncture is an improvement on another.
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture
Abbreviated to TCM, this is the most commonly used type of acupuncture in the world. In addition to being practiced in China the United States is known to have a large number of practitioners.
Korean Hand Acupuncture
Peoples hands are focused on here, different areas related to other parts of the persons anatomy and potential 'disharmonies'. This technique is one of the so called 'microsystems' whereby one aspect of the body is used to treat ailments anywhere in the body.
Japanese Acupuncture
This particular acupuncture style is a more subtle form of TCM. The number of needles as well as the needle thickness is less. Stimulation is less pronounced in general.
Auricular Acupuncture
Another microsystem, ears are the focus here. Specific parts of the ear relate to other areas of the body and associated maladies. Pain control or drug addictions, e.g. alcohol and nicotine, are common uses for this acupuncture technique.
Medical Acupuncture
Defined as when a western world doctor administers acupuncture to a patient. Requirements for doctors to take up this practice are said to be more relaxed than is usual with the other techniques and therefore checking to see that the doctor is part of a recognized acupuncture group is essential.
Veterinary Acupuncture
Acknowledged and respected in its own right, requiring formal training and certification so as then to go on and practice, veterinary acupuncture is now practiced in most US states, many provinces in Canada and indeed other countries around the world.
These are just some of the main styles that can be found today. Many other variations exist e.g. Barefoot Doctor Acupuncture, Five Element Traditional Acupuncture and French Vietnamese Acupuncture. Often in today's practice acupuncture aspects from a variety of different styles are brought together to create a unique effect.
If you are considering taking up acupuncture of a particular style it is generally advised to always seek practitioners that are fully qualified in their particular discipline.
Korea, Vietnam, Japan, then Europe and America took up acupuncture and changed it to varying degrees based upon the countries different looks at the theory and techniques involved.
Basic underlying theoretical principals always remain the same but some styles of acupuncture vary greatly with diagnosis and technique. As yet there is no evidence that any one style of acupuncture is an improvement on another.
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture
Abbreviated to TCM, this is the most commonly used type of acupuncture in the world. In addition to being practiced in China the United States is known to have a large number of practitioners.
Korean Hand Acupuncture
Peoples hands are focused on here, different areas related to other parts of the persons anatomy and potential 'disharmonies'. This technique is one of the so called 'microsystems' whereby one aspect of the body is used to treat ailments anywhere in the body.
Japanese Acupuncture
This particular acupuncture style is a more subtle form of TCM. The number of needles as well as the needle thickness is less. Stimulation is less pronounced in general.
Auricular Acupuncture
Another microsystem, ears are the focus here. Specific parts of the ear relate to other areas of the body and associated maladies. Pain control or drug addictions, e.g. alcohol and nicotine, are common uses for this acupuncture technique.
Medical Acupuncture
Defined as when a western world doctor administers acupuncture to a patient. Requirements for doctors to take up this practice are said to be more relaxed than is usual with the other techniques and therefore checking to see that the doctor is part of a recognized acupuncture group is essential.
Veterinary Acupuncture
Acknowledged and respected in its own right, requiring formal training and certification so as then to go on and practice, veterinary acupuncture is now practiced in most US states, many provinces in Canada and indeed other countries around the world.
These are just some of the main styles that can be found today. Many other variations exist e.g. Barefoot Doctor Acupuncture, Five Element Traditional Acupuncture and French Vietnamese Acupuncture. Often in today's practice acupuncture aspects from a variety of different styles are brought together to create a unique effect.
If you are considering taking up acupuncture of a particular style it is generally advised to always seek practitioners that are fully qualified in their particular discipline.
Did You Remember To Take Your Ginkgo Today
Ginkgo has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine to cure many ailments but recently studies have shown that has promise in treating dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
This herb which is sometimes called ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree, Japanese silver apricot or just simply ginkgo comes from the leaves of the ginkgo tree which is one of the oldest trees in the world said to have been growing on earth for over 150 million years. Ginkgo leaf extracts can be seen today in the form of tease tablets or capsules but in traditional Chinese medicine proceeds were most often used.
Traditionally Ginkgo has been used to treat conditions such as tinnitus, bronchitis, asthma and fatigue but today it is finding uses in treating dementia, multiple sclerosis and sexual dysfunction as well as tinnitus and a host of other health problems.
In recent times over 300 studies have been done on ginkgo and there is evidence that it helps many health problems and particularly those to do with the brain. This is because ginkgo works to increase the blood flow to the brain having positive effects in the cerebellum in particular. It is said to enhance memory and may help counteract mental fatigue and lack of energy which we take for granted as signs of aging.
Due to its benefits of increased circulation, ginkgo is also used to relieve anxiety and tension. It is also a powerful antioxidant and may help prevent cholesterol from turning into plaque which can then attach itself to artery walls constricting blood flow. This herb has also been used to treat hemorrhoids, varicose veins Raynaud's syndrome and can slow retinal deterioration since it increases blood flow to the retina. In addition to treating Alzheimer's disease and the elderly is also shown promise in treating hearing loss and can improve circulation to the feet and hands. In addition, it is being studied as a potential treatment for preventing the ejection of transplants, asthma and toxic shock syndrome.
Like any other herb, ginkgo does have side effects which include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or skin problems. Some data suggests that it can increase the risk of bleeding so anyone who takes anticoagulants or has surgery or dentistry scheduled should tak to their doctor about using ginkgo. while it's true that seeds were used in ancient Chinese medicine, uncooked seeds contain a chemical (Ginkgotoxin) that can cause seizures and eating a lot of seeds could cause death so it's advisable to avoid the seeds. The leafs and extracts from the leafs which is what is in most of today's herbal medicines contains very little of this toxin.
You should discuss taking this or any other herb with your healthcare provider before you start taking it to ensure that it will interact safely with other drugs you may be on or health conditions you might have.
This herb which is sometimes called ginkgo biloba, maidenhair tree, Japanese silver apricot or just simply ginkgo comes from the leaves of the ginkgo tree which is one of the oldest trees in the world said to have been growing on earth for over 150 million years. Ginkgo leaf extracts can be seen today in the form of tease tablets or capsules but in traditional Chinese medicine proceeds were most often used.
Traditionally Ginkgo has been used to treat conditions such as tinnitus, bronchitis, asthma and fatigue but today it is finding uses in treating dementia, multiple sclerosis and sexual dysfunction as well as tinnitus and a host of other health problems.
In recent times over 300 studies have been done on ginkgo and there is evidence that it helps many health problems and particularly those to do with the brain. This is because ginkgo works to increase the blood flow to the brain having positive effects in the cerebellum in particular. It is said to enhance memory and may help counteract mental fatigue and lack of energy which we take for granted as signs of aging.
Due to its benefits of increased circulation, ginkgo is also used to relieve anxiety and tension. It is also a powerful antioxidant and may help prevent cholesterol from turning into plaque which can then attach itself to artery walls constricting blood flow. This herb has also been used to treat hemorrhoids, varicose veins Raynaud's syndrome and can slow retinal deterioration since it increases blood flow to the retina. In addition to treating Alzheimer's disease and the elderly is also shown promise in treating hearing loss and can improve circulation to the feet and hands. In addition, it is being studied as a potential treatment for preventing the ejection of transplants, asthma and toxic shock syndrome.
Like any other herb, ginkgo does have side effects which include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness or skin problems. Some data suggests that it can increase the risk of bleeding so anyone who takes anticoagulants or has surgery or dentistry scheduled should tak to their doctor about using ginkgo. while it's true that seeds were used in ancient Chinese medicine, uncooked seeds contain a chemical (Ginkgotoxin) that can cause seizures and eating a lot of seeds could cause death so it's advisable to avoid the seeds. The leafs and extracts from the leafs which is what is in most of today's herbal medicines contains very little of this toxin.
You should discuss taking this or any other herb with your healthcare provider before you start taking it to ensure that it will interact safely with other drugs you may be on or health conditions you might have.
A Look At Home Made Herbal Beauty Products
If you have ever been inspired to make your own beauty products at home but ultimately decided not to proceed because you were intimidated by the process, here are some suggestions for you:
Like any new venture, the best way to ensure success is by taking things one step at a time and adopting an open attitude. No one person, no matter how well versed in the subject, will ever know all there is to know about herbs. Feel free to learn at whatever pace makes you comfortable.
You might want to browse through the selections at your local public library to get a feel for the kind of information that is available. Then, when you find a particular guide book that suits your needs, you can go ahead and purchase one. Try to find one that you can use as a reference guide, with the properties of various plant products listed in an easy to read manner. You might well find yourself going to your garden or to the local market for remedies for common health ailments instead of your medicine cabinet or the drug store!
Once you have gained enough knowledge to be familiar with the different properties of herbs, you can then proceed to making use of them for whatever your needs may be. Some herbs act as a sedative, which is good for both body and mind. Still others are astringents, which is helpful if you are dealing with oily skin, while others are antiseptics, which may help those with acne.
Now that you know which herbs to use for your particular condition, how do you use them? One common way is by infusion. This is a lot like making tea. Using a glass container with a lid, boil the water (one pint of water for each ounce of herbs) first, then add the herbs (including stems and leaves). The mixture is then left to steep for about 10 minutes. Strain it, and then you can use the liquid in whatever fashion you choose.
Some natural products take the form of seeds, roots, or bark. If you would like to work with these items, the procedure is a little different: The best results are obtained if you used a small mortar and pestle to grind up the roots and seeds before you put them in the pot. This will help you get the most benefit from your ingredients by releasing their properties fully.
You need the to use a container made from a non metallic material, but in this case you need to bring the mixture to a slow boil and keep it boiling for about 15 minutes. The lid of the pot should not be put on tightly; instead, leave it at a bit of an angle to let steam escape. After 15 minutes, take the pot off the stove and let it steep for another few minutes (5 to 10 are recommended). Strain as above, and then use the liquid.
If you take the time to do some research first, the whole world of natural beauty products isn't really so intimidating. Figure out what you would like to treat, find out what herbs are needed and how to prepared them, and you will be well on your way to a whole new hobby.
Like any new venture, the best way to ensure success is by taking things one step at a time and adopting an open attitude. No one person, no matter how well versed in the subject, will ever know all there is to know about herbs. Feel free to learn at whatever pace makes you comfortable.
You might want to browse through the selections at your local public library to get a feel for the kind of information that is available. Then, when you find a particular guide book that suits your needs, you can go ahead and purchase one. Try to find one that you can use as a reference guide, with the properties of various plant products listed in an easy to read manner. You might well find yourself going to your garden or to the local market for remedies for common health ailments instead of your medicine cabinet or the drug store!
Once you have gained enough knowledge to be familiar with the different properties of herbs, you can then proceed to making use of them for whatever your needs may be. Some herbs act as a sedative, which is good for both body and mind. Still others are astringents, which is helpful if you are dealing with oily skin, while others are antiseptics, which may help those with acne.
Now that you know which herbs to use for your particular condition, how do you use them? One common way is by infusion. This is a lot like making tea. Using a glass container with a lid, boil the water (one pint of water for each ounce of herbs) first, then add the herbs (including stems and leaves). The mixture is then left to steep for about 10 minutes. Strain it, and then you can use the liquid in whatever fashion you choose.
Some natural products take the form of seeds, roots, or bark. If you would like to work with these items, the procedure is a little different: The best results are obtained if you used a small mortar and pestle to grind up the roots and seeds before you put them in the pot. This will help you get the most benefit from your ingredients by releasing their properties fully.
You need the to use a container made from a non metallic material, but in this case you need to bring the mixture to a slow boil and keep it boiling for about 15 minutes. The lid of the pot should not be put on tightly; instead, leave it at a bit of an angle to let steam escape. After 15 minutes, take the pot off the stove and let it steep for another few minutes (5 to 10 are recommended). Strain as above, and then use the liquid.
If you take the time to do some research first, the whole world of natural beauty products isn't really so intimidating. Figure out what you would like to treat, find out what herbs are needed and how to prepared them, and you will be well on your way to a whole new hobby.
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