H&H: Why do so many women experience difficulty with menopause?

TY: In many cultures women pass through menopause without any real issues. In Western society we all do things that have negative effects on our bodies, such as eating too much poor-quality food and living with prolonged stress. If you’ve spent most of your life like this, you cannot expect to get through menopause unscathed. In essence, you reap what you sow and menopause is where your cumulative bad habits catch up with you.

H&H: Hot flushes appear to be the worst symptom of menopause. Why is this such a common experience?

TY: Hot flushes stem from long term-issues that relate to a poorly functioning liver. One of the liver’s functions is to break down excess hormones that are then excreted from the body. If you’ve been under any form of stress for a prolonged period then menopause is just another stress that your body is forced to deal with. A poorly functioning liver cannot break down hormones effectively, hence the hot flushes.

H&H: Can you explain how a poorly functioning liver leads to hot flushes?

TY: When you experience prolonged stress your body remains in a permanent state of ‘fight or flight’. This is the response that originally enabled us to physically fight or run away when faced with danger. It’s now activated in situations where neither response is appropriate, for example, in traffic jams or during a stressful day at work. The flight or fight process suspends many bodily processes, such as digestion, and diverts blood supplies to deal with what our body perceives as a threat. When that perceived threat has gone, our system is designed to return to normal function via the relaxation response. However, in times of chronic stress, this doesn’t happen enough, resulting in physical damage that can often lead to secondary gut and liver issues. On the other hand, when your body is working optimally, it can utilise hormones better and you don’t experience as many menopausal symptoms. As soon as patients present with hot flushes, I start them on a good liver tonic for at least a month. I also find underweight women experience more severe hot flushes because their bodies lack the fat cells vital for the process of breaking down hormones, such as androgens.

H&H: Women have been shying away from HRT (hormone replacement therapy) due to recent bad publicity. Do you think they’ve been turning to complementary therapies instead?

TY: Almost certainly. Recent information suggests that, since 2003, use of HRT has dropped by 40 per cent. Most women tend to self-prescribe and, as a general trend, would be trying oestrogenic herbs and menopause formulas intended to increase depleted oestrogen levels. What concerns me about this, is that in my practice I find as many as 65 per cent of women over the age of 35 suffer from uterine fibroids (with many unaware they have them as they often show no symptoms) and certain herbs may not be the most suitable choice for this condition. The most common symptom associated with fibroids is heavy bleeding. If you suspect you may have fibroids it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional.

H&H: What treatment do you find most effective for menopausal symptoms?

TY: Without a doubt, the most effective herb for so many reproductive issues is the herb Asparagus racemosa (also known as Shatavari). This herb can be used by young girls experiencing period pain right through to menopause and beyond. It’s effective (and without side effects), lightening bleeding, normalising menstrual cycles, and alleviating sore breasts, fatigue, painful periods and painful intercourse. As Asparagus has known digestive and gut-emptying properties, it can also normalise bowel patterns and thereby reduce bloating. In fact, Asparagus was found in clinical trials to be comparable to the drug Maxolon for relieving nausea.1 As Asparagus normalises digestion, the absorption of nutrients from food improves, which increases overall wellbeing.

H&H: The other distressing symptom many women experience is poor memory and a general feeling of ‘brain fog’. How can it be overcome?

TY: Again, Asparagus is the answer. This symptom is caused by low progesterone levels. The two other important nutrients for restoring mental function are vitamin B6 and zinc. Both these nutrients are the precursors to serotonin and dopamine – the ‘feel-good’ chemicals your body produces. If these nutrients are low you’re bound to feel blue. As Asparagus is a hormonal normaliser, taking the herb will adjust the progesterone imbalance as well as improving gut function, allowing better assimilation of B6 and zinc. The other vital nutrient is vitamin C, which is necessary for the function of the adrenal glands and your immune system during times of stress.

H&H: What dosage of these nutrients would you suggest?

TY: Ideally I would recommend 100 to 200 mg of vitamin B6 per day. However this is a high dose and I would not recommend this to be taken on a long term basis. You also need to take a good quality B complex capsule, since B vitamins don’t work in isolation. Choose a yeast-free brand to avoid encouraging thrush. Take a liquid zinc if possible, around 1 mL per day, with orange juice to aid absorption. For those who are extremely stressed, take 2 to 4 grams of vitamin C daily. If not so stressed, take 1 to 2 grams daily. Don’t take these nutrients at the same time as calcium supplements, because the calcium uptake will be favoured over zinc.

H&H: What dosage of Asparagus do you recommend?

TY: A typical daily dose would be 1 to 4 grams daily. I find the root of Asparagus works much better than powders or liquids. Start with one Asparagus root capsule in the morning and one in the evening. In severe cases, taking two capsules morning and night should be sufficient. Most of my patients experience an improvement within the first cycle and optimum results after three cycles. What I like most about this herb is that you can only improve after taking Asparagus and it won’t aggravate any secondary conditions such as fibroids. It’s also affordable and has minimal side effects. I’ve only had one patient out of hundreds who’s been unable to tolerate Asparagus. If you find these suggested dosages aren’t showing an improvement I’d advise you to consult your healthcare professional.

H&H: What can women do about the fatigue that is a common experience of menopause?

TY: Combining one Asparagus capsule with one Withania capsule morning and night can make a huge difference to energy levels. This combination supports the adrenal glands and relieves the symptoms of prolonged stress. Asparagus can really restore your vitality.

H&H: Tracey, your one piece of final advice on menopause?

TY: Don’t dread it! If you’ve looked after yourself, you won’t have any problems. Even if you do, in my opinion Asparagus is a fantastically effective herb that will help relieve most hormonal symptoms women may experience from puberty onwards. And best of all, it won’t create further problems. Embrace being female and remain vital until old age.

Case Study
 
Elizabeth, aged 52 came to my clinic after experiencing several symptoms of menopause. She was having hot flushes throughout the day, and night sweats were affecting her sleep pattern. She was also feeling very fatigued and was experiencing the occasional anxiety episode. Her periods were intermittent – one every two or three months – and they were extremely heavy on the first day or two. On these days Elizabeth had to change her pad every hour or so. She really just wanted the periods to stop as she’d had these symptoms for years and was finding them extremely draining. Her doctor spoke to her about taking HRT, but Elizabeth was keen to go with natural options.

We commenced Elizabeth on a liver tonic for one month, two capsules of Asparagus twice a day for the fi rst month, and I also prescribed two capsules of Withania per day for its supportive action to the adrenal glands and to help her body cope and resist stress. After four weeks, Elizabeth was already feeling a lot less fatigued and was no longer waking up feeling as if she hadn’t slept. Her energy levels during the day also improved. The anxiety had not returned and her periods were lighter. The hot flushes became a lot less frequent and intense. I continued the Asparagus at two capsules per day and also the Withania at two capsules per day, as continuing support for the adrenals was vital to the long-term success of her treatment.

After three months, Elizabeth was only experiencing the odd hot flush, usually when she was experiencing more stress than normal. Elizabeth recognised this and was trying exercise and meditation to assist with her management of stress. She had not had another period at this time. Her stamina was much better and she found she was coping better on a day-to-day basis and the ‘little things’ were no longer upsetting her. At six months, Elizabeth had no more periods and only minimal symptoms associated with her menopause. She is continuing with two Asparagus capsules per day as she says they make her feel healthy.

Q: I am currently recovering from a cold. When my symptoms started, I began taking Echinacea, and I   found my sniffles only lasted a couple of days! Can I continue taking Echinacea to prevent another cold? Maria, QLD. 

A: I’m glad the Echinacea was such a great help! However, a 1999 review of Echinacea’s use in upper respiratory tract infections suggested that the current evidence is stronger for supporting the use of Echinacea in acute treatment and quite modest for its use in prevention. I suggest you try Astragalus, a traditional Chinese herb that is useful in enhancing the body’s immune function during convalescence. It can be taken long-term over the winter months to build up your resistance and reduce the likelihood of catching a second bout of the cold or flu. But don’t throw away the Echinacea! Keep it and some vitamin C in the medicine cabinet for the family to take at the first signs of a cold.

Q: I know there are a few herbs that help boost breast milk production. Is one better than another? Chantelle, VIC. 

A: The main herbs used to boost breast milk production are Blessed Thistle, Fenugreek and Asparagus racemosa root. All are equally good in this regard, so your choice comes down to which of their other properties would be most beneficial. For example, Blessed Thistle is a gentle liver tonic that, due to its bitter action, may also stimulate the appetite of a baby who is a poor feeder. Fenugreek is an expectorant that can help relieve excess mucus and coughs, so might help if you have a cold or flu. Asparagus helps with minor menstrual irregularities and lightens bleeding, so may be the best choice if your period tends to be heavy or painful.

Article thanks to Herbs and Health Magazine Australia

Diuretics are used to eliminate excess fluid, aid the process of detoxification through the kidneys and assist urinary conditions such as infections or stones. They are also beneficial for conditions associated with lymphatic congestion, skin diseases and rheumatic or arthritic complaints. Increasing the flow of urine (diuresis), these herbs help to purify the blood.

Burdock root was traditionally used by America’s 19th century Eclectic physicians as a diuretic to treat urinary tract infections, kidney problems and painful urination. It was also prescribed for arthritis and skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, acne and dandruff.

Corn silk acts as a diuretic, soothing and toning irritated urinary tract linings. It was traditionally used to relieve fluid retention and aid urinary complaints.

Dandelion leaf  is considered one of the strongest herbal diuretics, useful for treating fluid retention from most causes. It is also a good natural source of potassium. During the Middle Ages, Europeans believed in the Doctrine of Signatures – the idea that a plant’s physical characteristics revealed its healing value. Under this doctrine, any juicy plant (such as Dandelion) was linked to urine production.

Emmenagogues

Emmenagogues are remedies that balance female hormones and thereby regulate menstruation.

Black Cohosh root is a traditional North American herb that was used to ease menopausal symptoms and menstrual complaints such as PMS with cramps. The root contains triterpene glycosides, compounds that are believed to act on a hypothalamus-pituitary gland level, which has a secondary effect on the female reproductive system. Black Cohosh is believed to be slightly oestrogenic, meaning it acts like the female sex hormone oestrogen.

Chaste berries, also known as Vitex agnus castus, works via the pituitary gland to normalise menstrual irregularities and counteract the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome including irritability, depressed mood and headaches. Vitex was traditionally used to increase lactation and lower libido hence the ‘chaste’ berry.

Galactagogues

Galactagogues are remedies used by women during lactation to promote the flow of breast milk.

Asparagus root, also known as Shatavari, is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen female hormones, promoting fertility and stimulating breast milk.

Blessed Thistle is a bitter herb that is useful as a liver tonic and for its ability to increase and enrich the fl ow of breast milk. Blessed Thistle is recommended for any woman who wants to increase their breast milk production or keep feeding for longer.

Fenugreek seeds were commonly eaten by Indian women to increase breast milk production. Today, they are still commonly used as a galactagogue during lactation, but also as an expectorant for the respiratory system.

Immune enhancers

Immune enhancers are substances that help influence immune function, strengthening the body’s natural defences.

Astragalus restores and strengthens the body’s immune response. It stimulates the activity of macrophages – a type of white blood cell the body produces to mop up and destroy foreign material and infectious micro-organisms. Astragalus is used long-term as an immune-stimulant to reduce the incidence of the common cold and flu or in convalescence. It is not recommended to take Astragalus in the acute phase.

Cat’s Claw is native to Peru and contains immune stimulating properties that enhance immune function, so is a useful remedy during the winter months when the immune system is often weak.

Echinacea is an immune-stimulant that enhances macrophage activity (see Astragalus). It is often prescribed in the acute phase of upper respiratory tract infections, including common colds, influenza and bacterial sinusitis, to reduce the severity of symptoms.

You’re probably already taking care of your health by making sure to include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet, tossing a couple of cloves of garlic in your stir-fries, and making sure you get enough sleep. If you’re not already, it’s also a good idea to take herbal medicines that naturally promote immunity and help your body fight viruses and other infectious organisms.

While you’re at it, think about herbs to support your nervous system too. Why the nervous system? Psychological stress and the way your body reacts to it are intimately related to your immunity.

In particular, your stress levels influence your likelihood of becoming sick when you’re exposed to viruses that cause colds and flu, and if you do get sick, they also contribute to the severity of your symptoms. This is illustrated by a clinical study in which researchers measured the stress levels of 394 people before exposing them to one of five respiratory viruses. Afterwards, tests showed that the likelihood of contracting the virus (as shown by antibody reactions in the bloodstream) increased according to how stressed the participants were; people who had low stress levels had a 74 per cent chance of being infected by the virus, while those who with high stress levels became infected 90 per cent of the time.

Bearing in mind that we don’t come down with a cold every time we encounter a virus, it’s perhaps even more important that in this study, once they were infected, people with high stress levels were also significantly more likely to develop cold symptoms than those with low stress levels. These results support those from another study, which found that people with higher levels of stress experience more severe flu symptoms (including increased mucus production) than people with less stress. During times of acute (short-term) stress, the immune system – like the body’s other defences against danger – tends to be activated, ready to swing into action.

Chronic stress (continuing for longer than a month) has the reverse effect, dampening the activity of key components of the immune system. It’s logical therefore that the types of stress that have the greatest impact on your resistance are those that persist over long periods (such as family difficulties, caring for a sick family member, ongoing work problems, or unemployment). And unfortunately, the longer the stressful situation continues, the more likely you are to get sick.

Herbs to support immunity

Herbalists and naturopaths traditionally take a holistic approach to building resistance to infection, combining herbs with three different actions: adaptogens, immune tonics and antimicrobials.

Adaptogens

Adaptogens are herbs that help the body adapt to physical and/or emotional stress and return to a normal state of balance. Their use in strengthening immunity is validated by data showing that an individual’s resistance to respiratory infections like colds and flu is correlated with their levels of the stress hormone cortisol, one of the key markers of the body’s stress levels (and responsible for many of the physical symptoms we associate with ongoing stress).

Rhodiola: The herb Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) has only become available in Australia relatively recently, but has an extensive tradition of use in Europe. In clinical trials, it has been shown to relieve a range of stressrelated problems, including fatigue, anxiety, low mood and poor attention span. It has also been shown to reduce cortisol release in patients who are suffering stress burnout, so may be a particularly useful choice if you’re going through a stressful time and are keen to support your immune system while also boosting your energy levels and improving your ability to cope.

Withania: Like Rhodiola, the herb Withania is considered an adaptogen and has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine to help the body cope with stress. In animal studies, that stress-coping effect has also been shown to improve immune function, increasing the numbers of certain immune cells, and promoting the activity of others. More recently, Indian researchers measured the changes in key immune cells before and after healthy participants consumed two doses of Withania a day for four days, and demonstrated increased activation of the immune system. Research also suggests that, like Rhodiola, Withania may help to reduce plasma cortisol levels, and therefore may help to offset many of the negative effects of chronic stress, perhaps including reduced resistance to infection.

Immune tonics

Around the world, different herbs have traditionally been used to support the body’s defences and build resistance to infection. Many are taken at low doses as preventive remedies, and then increased to higher doses if infections take hold. In general, these herbs tend to be most effective when treatment is started as quickly as possible after the onset of symptoms.

Andrographis: Native to Asia, Andrographis has been traditionally used to rid the body of heat, as in fevers and to dispel toxins from the body. Laboratory studies indicating that the herb stimulates immune function via a number of different mechanisms are supported by clinical studies that show it can provide relief from many of the typical symptoms of colds, such as sore throats, runny nose, sinus pain, fatigue, fever, mucus production and headaches. When taken at the first sign of symptoms, it has also been shown to aid faster recovery from colds.

Echinacea: The North American herb Echinacea stimulates the immune system via a number of different mechanisms, many of which have been well documented. For example, it has been shown to promote phagocytosis (the process by which immune cells engulf and destroy invading organisms), and is also known to boost the numbers of key types of immune cells and stimulate the activity of others. Numerous studies also indicate that Echinacea is an effective treatment for upper respiratory tract infections, and as with Andrographis, the effects appear to be most pronounced when taken as quickly as possible after the symptoms appear.

Olive leaf: Echinacea and Andrographis are often taken in combination with olive leaf, an antioxidant-rich remedy that (amongst other uses) has traditionally been used to stimulate immunity and treat infections.

Cat’s Claw and Astragalus: Other herbs prescribed to boost immune function include the Amazonian vine Cat’s Claw, and the traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus. The traditional reputation of both these herbs is supported by laboratory studies confirming their immunomodulating activity.

Antimicrobials

Herbs that fight infection provide valuable support to immune and nervous system supporting remedies, and may help you over-come infection more quickly if you get sick.

Golden Seal: Golden Seal is traditionally indicated as a tonic for the mucous membranes (including those of the throat, nose and sinuses). Today, many herbalists consider it to be the most important of all antimicrobial remedies because the herb (and isolated alkaloids from it, especially berberine) has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and parasites, leading to its use in a wide range of infective conditions. In laboratory studies, Golden Seal also exhibits a number of immune-modulating activities.

Pau D’Arco: Fungal infections such as Candida are notoriously difficult to overcome, especially as the organisms involved have a tendency to develop resistance to the pharmaceutical drugs used to treat them. When treating fungal conditions with herbs, it pays to use a remedy that’s specifically indicated for the purpose. Probably the best choice is Pau D’Arco, a herbal medicine from South America, where it has traditionally been used to treat both bacterial and fungal infections (as well as for other health disorders) and has also demonstrated antifungal activity in laboratory studies. Pau D’Arco is available in both the traditional tea (decoction) form, and as an easy-to-swallow capsule.

Case Study

Susan had been suffering from recurrent thrush on a monthly basis when she first consulted a natural health practitioner. Further investigation revealed that she had been taking the oral contraceptive pill for years and averaged four courses a year of antibiotics for minor infections such as sinusitis and tonsillitis. She worked full time and was always on the go. Her diet was adequate but could be improved, particularly as she was rather partial to a regular glass or two of wine to relieve her stress.

Susan decided to discontinue the oral contraceptive pill and was prescribed a course of herbs to rebalance her hormone levels. Once her cycle was regular, it was time to address the issue of frequent thrush episodes. A fi nger prick blood test confirmed the presence of candida albicans. Her natural health practitioner began to treat this with the herb Pau D’Arco at 3,000 mg per day, and placed Susan on an anti-candida diet eliminating all foods containing yeast and sugar for a period of two weeks and gradually reintroducing some of these foods. Susan focused on a maintenance diet of foods which have minimal or low sugar content such as fresh fruit and vegetables, wholegrain breads and pastas. She also included probiotic supplements daily to help rebalance the micro-organisms in her gut.

As the candida symptoms improved Susan was treated with immune boosting herbs such as garlic and golden seal to boost her immune system and reduce the chances of her developing sinusitis or tonsillitis in the future. This eliminated the need to take antibiotics which made her body susceptible to candida in the first place.

Susan continues to follow the maintenance diet and drinks only the occasional glass of wine and says she feels much healthier and best of all has not experienced any thrush or sinusitis since.

Tips for controlling the spread of infection

1. Wash hands regularly – even when they aren’t visibly dirty – with soap and water or with an alcohol-based product that does not require water.

Always wash your hands:

• after you’ve been to the toilet
• after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
• after being in contact with someone who has a cold or flu
• before touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• before preparing food and eating

2. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.

When you cough or sneeze you should:

• turn away from other people
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue
• use disposable tissues rather than a handkerchief (which can store the virus)
• put used tissues into the nearest bin

While you can’t turn back time, you can effectively reduce your biological age by two years if you follow a healthy diet and supplement with essential fertility nutrients and herbs for at least four months before conception, claims leading fertility expert Francesca Naish.

The benefits of supplementing

In addition to vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, various herbal extracts can help to balance hormone levels and promote fertility. As well as helping the body do what comes naturally, they are also beneficial for your overall health. Herbs contain antioxidants and other important compounds that boost immune function, fight off illness and benefit your cardiovascular system, to name a few! So you are not only boosting fertility, you are promoting general wellness at the same time. Often a combination of herbal extracts is the most effective tool, each working synergistically with the other.

Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris): Better known for its perceived benefits in building muscle, the positive effects this herb has on both male and female fertility are sometimes overlooked. Tribulus acts as a general fertility tonic and aphrodisiac and is used to restore vitality and reduce the physiological effects of stress.

In one study, Tribulus extract given at a dose of 750 mg per day for five days, demonstrated an increase in sex hormone production for both men and women. In another study 36 infertile women were given Tribulus; 6 per cent became pregnant as a result of normalised ovulation; 61 per cent demonstrated normalised ovulation and no pregnancy; and 33 per cent demonstrated no effect from Tribulus. Studies also show that protodioscin, the active component of Tribulus, has several beneficial effects on sperm production, improving the quantity and quality of sperm produced as well as sperm motility (the ability to swim and reach the female egg). In a double blind study of 45 infertile married men, 36 were treated with Tribulus daily for three months. The control group of nine men were given a placebo for the same period.  Spouses of eight of the men in the treated group achieved pregnancies after their husbands’ treatment, whereas no pregnancies occurred in the spouses of the men in the control group. The researchers also noted improvements in sperm quality and composition after the treatment period. The recommended daily dose of Tribulus extract standardised to contain a minimum of protodioscin is 240 to 360 mg. It is best used on days five to 14 of the menstrual cycle for enhanced female fertility. Males can take this supplement continuously.

Asparagus (Shatavari): Not to be confused with the humble vegetable you buy in the supermarket, Asparagus racemosa is extremely useful for both male and female sexual and reproductive health due to its tonic and rejuvenative properties. In males, Asparagus root has been shown to improve seminal qualities by increasing sperm count and motility. In females, it nourishes and cleanses the blood and reproductive organs, as well as regulating premenstrual symptoms and minor imbalances in the menstrual cycle. Asparagus is often used to control excessive menstrual bleeding because of its healing effect on the endometrium. Asparagus root improves egg quality in older prospective mothers and also breast milk production in nursing mothers. The recommended dose is 2g daily.

Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus): Also known as Vitex (Chaste Tree berries) are one of the most well known natural fertility herbs for women. It stimulates the pituitary gland, which produces the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone, and stimulates the ovulation process. Particularly useful when there is a low level of progesterone production, this herb acts as a rejuvenating tonic to the reproductive system. More specifically, Chaste Tree has been used successfully by women suffering from irregular ovulation and by women with shorter luteal phases (the period between ovulation and the end of the menstrual cycle). Chaste Tree has also been shown to restore normal ovulation after discontinuing use of birth control pills. The recommended daily dose of the powdered berries or fruit is 1.5g.

Withania (Ashwagandha): In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha means ‘the smell of a horse’ because the strong odour of the fresh root resembles horse urine. It is also considered to bestow the sexual vitality of a horse on the user and is traditionally used in cases of sterility and infertility. In India, Withania is regarded as one of the best male rejuvenating tonics, promoting sperm production, blood flow and tone to the reproductive organs. It also regulates hormonal function in men. The traditional recommended daily dose of the powdered root is 2 g daily.

Coenzyme Q10: A 2004 study demonstrated daily supplementation with coenzyme Q10 can help improve sperm movement in infertile men. Coenzyme Q10 is active in the testes and plays an important role in forming membranes and other structures within cells by fighting the effects of oxidative stress. Researchers looked at the effects of daily oral supplementation with 200 mg of coenzyme Q10 in 22 infertile men with low sperm motility. At the start of the study, researchers found the men had lower-than-normal levels of coenzyme Q10 in their seminal fluid. After six months of supplementation with the antioxidant, the men experienced a significant increase in these levels. The researchers also found a significant increase in sperm motility, which was linked to the rise in coenzyme Q10 levels. Coenzyme Q10 may also protect the ovaries in older mothers, a likely result of its antioxidant properties.

The jury is in

Foresight, a British Medical Association for the promotion of preconception, conducted a study between 1990 and 1993, using a nutritional and lifestyle modification preconception care programme. The results were nothing less than remarkable. There was a tenfold reduction in the expected incidence of miscarriage and birth defects and more than an 80 per cent success rate with unexplained infertility. Out of the 367 couples in the study, 327 (89 per cent) successfully became pregnant and 327 children were born. All the babies born were healthy. Among the 204 couples with infertility problems, 175 (86 per cent) were able to achieve a healthy pregnancy.

These results clearly demonstrate that herbs and supplements play an important role in achieving a trouble-free pregnancy and a happy, healthy baby.

One of the greatest abilities of the Liver is that it can regenerate itself. This should provide a great deal of hope for anyone suffering from liver disease. There are a few things that you need to do in order to turn your scarred liver into a brand new healthy liver. Follow the steps below:

Start consuming Dandelion (that plant that probably grows all around your home). The leaves of the Dandelion plant can be picked, washed, and mixed in with your salads. But you can also find Dandelion tinctures or other forms of Dandelion extracts at your local health food store. Dandelion is extremely useful for the health of the liver and related organs and glands. (Note that a poorly functioning liver will only bring DOWN the function of other organs and glands). It has been used to successfully treat liver disease, such as hepatitis and liver insufficiency.

If you only had one choice for picking a natural cure for liver disease it should be Milk Thistle Seed Extract (…fortunately you have more than one choice, so why not use all of them, it will only speed up your healing). There are a few reasons why Milk Thistle Seed Extract (also referred to as “Mte”) is beneficial to the liver and liver regeneration. Firstly, it protects the liver from toxins. Toxins, like Alcohol (the number one cause of Cirrhosis), compete against Mte for space on the cell membrane of the liver…except they always lose against the much stronger Mte. If your liver has Mte (milk thistle seed extract) all around itself, therefore preventing harmful toxins from destroying the liver, then the liver actually has time to regenerate. Also, Mte increase protein synthesis, which means that it speeds up the regeneration of destroyed liver tissue.

Another huge benefit of Milk Thistle Seed Extract is its interference with the enterohepatic circulation. Now, you might be wondering what the enterohepatic circulation is? Toxins are constantly being cycled back in forth between the gastrointestinal tract and the liver. Each time the toxins pass by the liver, the liver gets damaged. However, Mte interrupts the first absorption of toxins and then it helps prevent the re-absorption when the toxins are recycled. Cells that are not yet poisoned are therefore protected and become sites for new liver cell growth. In time a full restoration of the liver can be achieved.

The next herb is Artichoke which has similar healing properties as Milk Thistle. That being said, use both Milk Thistle Seed Extract and Artichoke extract to heal a liver (along with a regular consumption of Dandelion extract). The human liver will regenerate itself, by using the above mentioned natural healers we can restore our livers faster. Don’t give in to taking pharmaceutical drugs they cause way too much damage to the liver, even if they are meant to heal your liver. Use natural cures and you will heal your liver faster, safer, and cheaper.

There are many other ways to speed up the recovery of your liver. Things like Acupuncture, Acupressure, Reflexology, Magnet Therapy, Essential Oils, Homeopathic Medicine, Home Remedies, Healing Crystals, and other Healing Herbs can all be used simultaneously to increase the restoration of the liver.

In order herbs to be used safely it advisable to observe the next precautions:

• Ask your doctor for advice whenever you have any doubt.
• Ask your doctor for the appropriate dose.
• Women during pregnancy should be very careful and never use any herbal medicine without the permission of the responsible gynaecologist.
• Diseased persons who take drugs, should be very cautious when using herbal products because of possible interaction with the drugs.
• Beware of fraud or adulterated products.
• Special attention should be paid when buying herbal products on internet.
• Search for reliable information and ignore unconfirmed rumors about herbs, before trying any remedy.

Probably you do not know what is the definition of the word Herb, but it is most possible to have drunk an herbal tea or used a nutrition supplement. Herbs are called the plants or usually the useful part of them that are used for therapeutic or alimentary purposes. Herbs they have special scent or favor and this why they have drawn our ancestors’ attention. Nowadays, there is a fast growing market which merchandise herbs (fresh or usually dried), herbal teas or products with herbal substances as principal ingredients (tablets, powders etc.).

There are a few hundreds herbs that grow all over the world. Several of them have therapeutic attributes and are used as natural or pharmaceutical medicine, many others are used only in cooking and some dozens are harmless for external uses but very dangerous if taken internally. Although herbs are generally wild plants that grow in mountains, forests or leas, some of them can easily grow in a home garden or even indoor! Some of the most popular and commonly used herbs are: Basil (Ocimum Basilicum), Chamomile (Chamaemilum nubile), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), Garlic (Tulbhagia violacea), Peppermint (Mentha piperita) and Ginger (Pelargonium x nervosum).

As mentioned above, herbal teas and nutrition supplements can promote general health and wellness. If you search for the maximum success you should combine the herbal extracts digestion with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Herbs are great immune system booster and body functions regulators. Moreover, they offer essential nutrients and promote heart’s operation. What is more, herbs have anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties, while they can contribute to a better vision, memory and energy. Additionally, herbal medical products believed to be effectual digestive enhancer. Last but not least, drinking herbal teas can help you achieve calmness, clear mind and improve quality of sleep.

Reference: George Kakaris

Massage is a great way to relax the body and take away the stress and problems of the day. The more common reasons that people get an alternative medicine massage is to rid their body of kinks and to feel refreshed afterwards.

The History of Hilot

Hilot as an alternative medicine massage originated from the Philippines. There are several varieties of this kind of alternative medicine massage. It has been a useful way of treating so many things from the flu to sprains and even dislocations. It is embedded in the culture of the country and there are, up to this very day, a few people who practice this type of alternative medicine massage.

The mang-hihilot or masseuse tends to guard their secrets methods of kneading and herbs that this is now uncommon to get a person who is skilled at it. Due to the close guarding of the trade secrets of the masseuse, they only teach their close relatives this art of alternative medicine massage in order to keep the family line going. It is uncommon today to actually have a Hilot that is performed by someone with ancient heritage.

Hilot goes as far back as the 5th century in the tribes of the Filipino people. It is unfortunate to note that there are no written facts or documents regarding the exact ways of this alternative medicine massage. What has been handed down from generation to generation of mang-hihilot contains variations added or subtracted by the current masseuse.

Uses Of This Alternative Medicine Massage

The hilot type of massage is often used to alleviate aches and pains due to overwork or stress. It is also common for a hilot masseuse to attend to a pregnant woman during birth or to change the position of the baby.

Other hilot massages also help to ease the pain of a sprain or a dislocation. These massages can be painful therefore the person giving the hilot usually asks the individual to chew on some leaves or to take a brew which can alleviate pain. Although the pain can be very intense to begin with, many claim that the medicinal value in the future fare outweighs the temporary discomfort of the treatment.

This form of alternative medicine massage is very effective especially for the stress related aches and pains. Many of todays clients of hilot massages are doctors, lawyers, stockbrokers, and real estate brokers. These high stress jobs require a release of stress and many have found that massage is the perfect way.

It is typically done with the accompaniment of virgin coconut oil to rub or knead at the muscles. After a hilot session, you are usually warned not to bathe for approximately twenty four hours. This is because the special oils used in the hilot session are rumored to only work if given enough time to soak in though the skin.

Reference:-  Hilot massage

A. Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungus that lives in the skin of almost all adults. This fungus exists in two forms, one of which causes visible spots. Factors that can cause the fungus to become more visible include high humidity and immune or hormone abnormalities.

• Garlic (Allium sativum). Garlic is an antifungal antiseptic and is effective in treating tinea conditions. Steep several cloves of garlic in some olive oil for one to three days. Strain the garlic cloves from the mixture and dab the oil on the affected area with a cotton ball.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Ginger contains caprylic acid which is good for fungal infections. To make a ginger tonic simply add one ounce of crushed ginger to a cup of boiling water and let it simmer for 20 minutes. When the mixture is cool enough to use, simply apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball.
• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Licorice has 25 fungicidal compounds and has been used by the Chinese to treat Tinea conditions. Make a strong brew using five to seven teaspoons of dried herb to a cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 20 minutes. When it is cool simply apply it to the affected areas with a cotton ball.
• A mixture of honey, olive oil, and beeswax may help heal fungal infections of the skin.
• Pau d’Arco is also a wonderful antifungal herb. It has powerful Anti-viral and Anti-biotic properties.

Garlic: Garlic is a very healthy herb. It has shown to significantly reduce the amount of fatty deposits in the arteries by up to 50%. It also helps to stop clots from forming. Garlic can easily be added to dishes to make them more tasty. If you have a problem with “garlic breath,” you may want to use a supplement.

Mint: There are many, many types of mint. The most popular ones are spearmint and peppermint. For individuals who are interested in growing their own herbs, mint is an easy one to grow. Of all herbs, mint is probably the one with the most documented evidence. Mints are fantastic for soothing stomach pain. They are also great for obtaining fresh breath.

Basil: Basil works well in helping to improve memory, and calm the nervous system. It also is an effective herb to clear the lungs, remedy ear aches and treat fungi infections.

Lavender: The herb lavender is known to help alleviate headaches and to help individuals who suffer from insomnia fall asleep. Using this herb in oil is a perfect way to administer it.

Marjoram: Marjoram is great for soothing and calming.

Parsley: Parsley is well known for its diuretic properties. It is especially good for women going through menopause who are retaining water. There is also some evidence that parsley helps to lower high blood pressure in very mild cases.

Rosemary: Rosemary is an excellent herb to take when one is suffering from poor circulation, headaches or memory lapses. It is also good for fighting bad breath.

Yarrow: Yarrow not only has bodily healing properties, it also is great in attracting beauty. Butterflies are attracted to this herb, making it a good way to entice them to your garden.  Yarrow is also excellent for treating skin abrasions and cuts. It also helps to promote healing. Some individuals use yarrow to treat physical problems ranging from hemorrhoids to headaches.

Wormwood: When mixed with caraway or peppermint, wormwood can be used to sooth stomach pain and irritable bowel syndrome. It is best taken as a tea. It is important to note that wormwood has been declared unsafe by the FDA, due to thuione, which is found in wormwood and is dangerous for the liver.

Garlic, mint, basil, lavender, marjoram, parsley, rosemary, yarrow and wormwood are all herbs with outstanding healing properties. They are also all very easy to grow, making it very simple for an interested person to grow their own and benefit from them all year long.  There is no need to purchase them expensively in the store, when you can successfully grow them yourself.

Because many people enjoy having their food seasoned with herbs, it is really never difficult to incorporate them into one’s diet, which makes them incredibly convenient to consume. Be sure to add fresh herbs whenever you can and benefit from both their delicious flavor and their healing properties.