Image borrowed from the Daily Telegraph

Chewing gum doesn’t usually find it’s way into my shopping trolley, but Chicza did! What makes it different is that is is made from the gum of the Chicozapote tree.

This gum is in fact what the earliest US manufactured chewing gum was made of in the 1860s. The gum, Chicle, was imported into the USA to be used as a replacement for rubber, but it was not deemed suitable. Instead Chicle found it’s way into confectionery, and the great fashion for chewing gum was born. The habit of gum chewing had been practiced by the Native Americans, they used the gum of the spruce trees, and this was quickly copied by the settlers. Chicle was preferred to spruce.

The practice of chewing gum is very ancient, and as unlikely as it seems, a piece of birch bark tar has been found in Finland complete with tooth marks. This was dated to about 5,000 years. The Aztec and the Greek also chewed gum, often for medicinal purposes.

During the world wars the troops were given chewing gum and cigarettes to reduce stress levels, and help concentration. This has been updated so that now gum might be formulated with an anti bacterial agent to improve oral hygiene, and some gum has been caffeinated to prevent fatigue and drowsiness.
Today the majority of gum is synthetic rubber, polyisobutylene, the stuff also used for inner tubes or to line tubeless tyres. The reason for the change is economic, much cheaper to produce.

Why consider this latest product? The latex comes from the chicozapote tree from the Mayan rainforest of Gran Peten in south east Mexico. Buying this gum helps protect the rainforest and the way of life for the chicleros and their families. Tastes pretty good too.

Know your onions!

Onions are well known for their medicinal values. It is one of the foods suggested along with garlic to keep us free of heart problems.  It has also been traditionally used to help with colds, chest infections and ear ache. A common cure for bronchitis in the old days was to cut a large, raw, Spanish onion into quarters, and put under the bed of the sufferer. It was remembered as a very effective treatment.It could also be a used to treat earache,  an onion cut in half, applied to the ears, and kept in place with a scarf. For a cough medicine, a raw  onion, sliced was covered with brown sugar and left to stand over night. The liquid that it produced was an effect cough medicine.

There are many people in the 70s who can remember such treatments, and they vouched for their effectiveness, in the days before free health care, or when their parents could not afford the patient medicine. As with many cures that have been thought of as ‘old wife’s tales’ research has provided the validity of the original claims, and much more.

The onion is rich in Quercetin. The main source is to be found in the part of the onion that is usually thrown away both at home and in the manufacture of ready meals. That part is the papery outer skin. It is worth reading the results of tests carried out by the European Journal of Biochemistry 2003. The findings suggest the benefits are:-

• Protection from aging, vascular disease,
• Protection from certain forms of cancer, prostate, ovary, breast, colon and gastric cells.
• Quercetin is also anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and antioxidant.

Studies are on going as to the wonderful properties the onion skin has.
James A. Duke,Ph.D. the American herbalist, in his book The Green Pharmacy, extols the virtues of the onion for preventing cataracts and heart disease, for treating allergies, asthma, burns, colds, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, HIV infection, inflammatory bowel disease, insect bites, pneumonia, scabies, tuberculosis, varicose veins and yeast infections. There are three things in this impressive list that is a major cause for concern for older folk, they are high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Dr. Duke recommends a soup using the onions in a novel way, and that it to use the entire onion, cut into quarters, and cooked with the other ingredients.   Before serving, the onion pieces are removed and the outer skin discarded at that point.

Another possible way of using this valuable source of Quercetin is to make your own tincture.  Herbalists today use this method of extracting the goodness out of plant material, and that is to take about 4 ounces (120 grams) of the onion skins, put into an air tight jar with 1 pint (half a litre) of vodka.  This should be kept in a warm place and shaken twice a day for two weeks.  The liquid should be strained off through muslin, and the remaining plant material squeezed to get every last drop. This should be poured into,  and stored  in a dark bottle. Label, name and date it so that it is not confused with anything else. Smaller quantities can be made if it is only for your own consumption, and as you are using onions in your own kitchen.

To take the tincture use a little water, and add 15 drops of it. It could also be taken in a vegetable juice, mixed with carrots, peppers, beet root;  basically what ever you fancy that is good for your health.



The man who brought us an awareness of the importance of exercise is almost 100 years old, still fit, and still working!

It was 60 years ago in 1949 that Jerry Morris considered the data that he had collected on the instance of heart attacks. He had decided to study men working on the buses, the drivers and the conductors. He found there was overwhelming evidence to support the theory that conductors, age for age were half as likely to suffer heart attacks as the drivers.  The conductors on the double decker buses whizzed up and down the stairs collecting the passenger fares, whilst their colleagues sat and drove the bus.

Morris then studied the postmen who had active jobs, delivering the mail, whilst those working in the Post Office behind counters were like the bus drivers in terms of suffering heart attacks.

In 1953 The Lancet published Morris’s work “Coronary heart-disease and physical activity of work”.

Since these days for many of us the living has become easy.

• There has been a decline in physical activity
• Affordability of the motor car
• Television in almost every home, with today 24 hour viewing
• Ready made meals, TV dinners
• Processed food
• Less sport in schools
• The popularity of smoking
• The rise in social drinking

Heart attacks were on the rise after the war as observed by Jerry Morris, but today as a result of the above life style, heart disease is one of the biggest killers in the developed world.

There are a number of sites on the internet about the energetic Professor Morris and his scientific findings. Let’s hope he makes his 100th birthday next May.

Autumn is the time to enjoy foraging for food with the hedge rows are full of tasty morsels. As we head into December there are still Rose hips in the hedges but they will be disappearing soon. Perhaps the brightest of the natures fruits are the rose hips. These hips contain the hairy seeds of the wild or dog rose, and later in the autumn they can be recognised against the sky as little beacons of red atop very thorny stems.Great care is needed to harvest these fruits, protection is required against the jaggy thorns.

Children used to love gathering the hips for a more mischievous purpose, and that was to make itchy powder. By squishing open the hip and putting it down the back of a class mate, it was deemed fun to watch the victim squirm.

Rose Hips contain natural fruit sugar. They are a good source of calcium, silica, magnesium, phosphorous, and most importantly Vitamin C.

The naturopath A. Vogel suggested the use of Rose Hips for bleeding gums, loose teeth, chills, colds, and the predisposition to hemorrhaging.

During the war years children were sent out to the fields to gather the ripe rose hips,which were then sent to depots to supply the  manufacturers who then turned the bright red berries into Rose Hip Syrup.  This syrup was highly prized as a source of vitamin C in those dark war years when all foods were in short supply.

The government of the day, through the Ministry of Food issued the recipe for home use, the exact recipe as follows:-

Recipe for 2 pounds (900 gm) of rose hips

Method:

• Boil 3 pints (1.7 litres) of boiling water.
• Mince hips in a course mincer (food processor) and put immediately into the boiling water
• Bring to boil an them place aside for 15 minutes
• Pour into a flannel or linen crash jelly bag and allow to drip until the bulk of the liquid has come through
• Return the residue to the saucepan, add 1 1/2 pints (852 ml) of boiling water, stir and allow to stand for 10 minutes
• Pour back into the jelly bag and allow to drip
• To make sure all the sharp hairs are removed put back the first half cupful of liquid to drip through again
• Put the mixed juice into a clean saucepan and boil down until the juice measures about 1 1/2 pints (852 ml), then add 1 1/4 (560 gm) of sugar an boil for a further 5 minutes
• Pour into hot sterile bottles and seal at once.

Hints

If corks are used these should have been boiled for hour just previously and after insertion coated with melted paraffin wax

It is advisable to use small bottles as the syrup will not keep for more than a week or two once the bottle is opened

Store in a dark cupboard

******

Much the same recipe could be made today.  Until the 1970s it was possible to buy Delrosa Rose Hip Syrup which could be give to small children either diluted with warm water in a feeding bottle, or administered by teaspoon.   Most children loved it, and it kept them free of cold in the winter months.

In James Wong’s  book ‘Grow Your Own Drugs’ he recommends Rose hip Syrup as a vitamin booster, the recipe is similar to the the one above but he adds cloves and cinnamon as an optional extra.

It is possible to make a jam using equal quantities as the fruit and sugar.

Finally, an easy way to use the hips is to make Rose Hip tea. Quite simply wash the hips, chop or mince, spread out to dry, then store in air tight containers. To make the tea, use about a teaspoon of the dried hips, add boiling water and leave to stand for about 5 minutes. Strain carefully.

However you choose to use the hips straining through muslin is essential to rid the mixture of the hairy seeds.

When we think of herbs there is the feeling that they are ‘old fashioned’, ‘old wives tales’ and a thing of the past

In our high tech world of computers and gadgetry many of us expect our medicine to have undergone rigorous trials, by brilliant scientists in white coats, made in a shiny laboratory and come in foil packs. Perfect.

But this is only a comparatively recent development. Looking back at the gamut of history the last sixty years years is the mere blink of an eye.

Now let us think of a discovery made that dates from 60,000  years ago.  The people then were savages weren’t they? Savages are like animals, they have no feelings, no culture, no sense of caring? Well there have been finds from 30,000 years ago of figurines, paintings and musical instruments. Not quite so savage.

Found in the Zagros Mountains in north east Iraq are a number of caves that have been shelter to man for many thousands of years. Within the Shanidor cave archeologists unearthed  the remains of a man 60,000 years old.  The pollen found provided information about the medicinal plants used then:

Hollyhock, yarrow, groundsel, St. Barnaby’s thistle, cornflower, marshmallow and grape hyacinth.

A random choice? Six out of the seven are still regarded today as healing herbs by the modern day herbalist in many countries around the world.

Also, this body was laid to rest, not tossed into a pit. This shows an act of reverence and love. The body had been supported by the plant yarrow, a bedding material favoured by modern day Kurds.

Here are the medicinal values of the plants

Yarrow: an astringent, insect repellent, and tonic

Groundsel: purgative and treatment for intestinal worms

Grape hyacinth: digestive stimulant and diuretic

Marshmallow root: for sore throats and digestive problems

Thistle: to rid the body of kidney and bladder stones, and for gravel

Cornflower: menstruation stimulant, uterine tonic and to soothe tired eyes

The Yarrow formed the bedding, and the other plants formed a wreath, together with Hollyhock which in itself is not a particularly significant healing plant, but its inclusion is interesting. It is a plant that grows not in a clump, but on its own. It would have taken some time to collect enough for the wreath.

From the medicinal plants we have treatments for the digestive system, reproductive system and the urinary system. Worms of course are not something that modern man suffers from in the developed world, but would have been useful that situation. Not a bad medicine chest.

This is 60,000 years ago, so that means to have reached this level of sophistication man must have over the preceding centuries perfected this knowledge. It is altogether mind blowing. Compare that to modern times, Aspirin is just over 100 years old. Many drugs have come and gone, fallen into disrepute, done much serious damage to the patients, but still there are people who will choose plant medicine over modern drugs.

One must ask why there is so much done to discredit herbs?

As a matter of fact about 50% of drugs have been inspired by herbs. The white powder created in the Bayer laboratory which became Aspirin was  a man made salicylic acid.  The origins of of the Aspirin is complex but sufficient to say that it was properties in the humble Meadow Sweet (Spiraea ulmaria) that was discovered from the coal tar derivatives.  This was to be the birth of medicine as we know it.

One of the problems with modern medicine is the unwelcome side effects. This is rare with plant medicine, because the plant has its own antidotes. This is near impossible to replicate exactly the herb in the laboratory, as the plant possesses so many of them.

It could be argued that herbs will not tackle modern illness. In many cases true, but most of today’s ills have been brought about by chemicals and pollution. This is a debate for a future paper.

It is worth saying that a modern day herbalist will have studied full time for 5 years to gain a degree in the subject, about the same length of time for a student of medicine to qualify as a doctor. A herbalist will have studied the anatomy of the human body, and the healing properties of the plants.

There is still much to explore in herbal medicine.

Urinary Tract Infections, Cystitis

Warning about the treatment of kidney problems

It is not permissible to treat or make suggestions for kidney disease under the 1968 Medicines Act.   However a retailer is sometimes faced with customers looking for ways to prevent recurrent kidney infection, kidney stones and cystitis diagnosed by  their doctors.

What is an Urinary Tract Infection?

UTIs make their presence known when it becomes increasingly painful to go to the toilet.   There is a painful burning sensation when trying to urinate.   The urine itself may be dark in colour and a bit smelly.   Because of this many women think that drinking less will alleviate the problem, less trips to the toilet, therefore fewer painful experiences.   In fact this will not help.   Think of a garden pond in the summer heat, the water level is lowered, the water is thick will all sorts of organisms, and it is often smelly too!

So it is painful to urinate, it burns, and sometimes urination is almost impossible.    Drink more water.

We know how it feels, but what exactly is a UTI?   The problem arises in the bladder and is caused by the bacteria know as E. coli, (not the same bacteria that causes gastroenteritis).   There are a few other possible bacteria, but this one is by far the most common.

What happens when we eat and drink.

Food and drink starts off in the mouth where it is chewed, swallowed and ends up in the stomach.  This is then mixed with enzymes and pulped into chime.   It then enters the small intestine were the useful nutrients are absorbed into the system.   By the time the chime reaches the large intestine, it separates out into liquids and solids.   The solids end up in the colon or bowel to await it’s exit from the body, and the fluids into the bladder.

The bladder

The bladder is  a big stretchy bag that accommodates the fluid that our body no longer needs.   It can hold up to two pints in a healthy adult.  To empty it should require about eight visits during a 24 hour period.   Like many other bits of the body it is lined with mucus, just a small amount to help it function.

At the point of urination the urine travels down the urethra to exit the body.

How UTIs Are Acquired

Cold Causing Cystitis

Ladies of a certain age may remember their mothers saying that not wearing enough clothes would lead to a ‘chill in the kidneys’.   Actually, a chill may very well spark off cystitis.   In the last few years fashion has dictated that middles should be bare.   That is all very well if on holiday abroad, but not in the winter in the northern climes.   This could be one of many reasons for cystitis.  The Nature Doctor, Dr. A. Vogel is quoted as saying “Whatever results from a cold can only be taken away through heat”.   He suggests using hot herbal packs, compresses and prolonged sitz baths.  The ‘sitz bath’ or hip bath has long since gone out of fashion, but hot water bottles or the wheat and lavender packs that can be heated in the microwave can give some relief.

Clothing and Cystitis

Bacteria like to be warm so they can flourish.   What better environment than pants, then tights, panty girdle and trousers, or even worse, tight fitting jeans!   The problem with modern clothes is that they are often made of man made fibers.   That part of the anatomy does not get to breathe, but gets hot and sticky.   Bacteria love it, the perfect breading ground.   Cotton pants with stockings are preferred option if trying to prevent cystitis.   That is one end of the scale, the other and chosen by younger women is the thong!   Badly fitting thongs can spread bacteria.   As the E.coli  comes from the colon, it is not hard to imagine it finding it’s way into the urinary tract.

Sanitary towels, tampons and panty liners, if not changed regularly, harbor the unwanted bacteria.

Hygiene

Given that nearly all cystitis is cause by the e.coli bacteria that is present in the colon, and the proximity of the anus to the urethra, great care needs to be taken with toilet hygiene.   It is essential to wipe from front to back to prevent any faecial material from getting into the urethra, then up into the bladder.   Showers are preferable to baths when cystitis is present.   Tea Tree soap rids the area of bacteria.

Irritants

On the subject of bathing, think twice before using bubble baths, bath balls, and highly perfumed soap, as these can cause further irritation to the sensitive area.   Most of these products are chemically made, and whilst they might smell nice, they are not helpful.

Sexual Hygiene

The following may sound like a passion killer, but this routine should be adhered to if you do not wish to have cystitis.   Given the closeness of the anus, vagina and urethra, bacteria will get transmitted back and forward.   It is advisable to wash this area before and after intercourse.   Also, drink water before intercourse takes place, and immediately afterwards.   Empty the bladder within 15 minutes of intercourse.

Men don’t suffer cystitis to the same extent as women, so may not understand the misery that it causes!

Cystitis and Cancer.

The two standard treatments for cancer can cause Cystitis.  Chemotherapy when passed out in the urine can be very irritating to the bladder, where it can cause inflammation.   This is called ‘chemical cystitis’.

Radiotherapy, if used in the pelvic area can cause inflammation to the bladder wall, giving rise to a very severe from of cystitis.

Catheters can also cause bacterial infection.

Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence can be a cause of cystitis.   When stress incontinence first happens, it can be a cause for concern.   No one wants to wet themselves, especially in public.   What to do?   In the last few years makers of sanitary protection for women have introduced the panty liner.   Like sanitary towels these come in various sizes, to meet the increasing need; and now complete pants for the most serious condition.   Whilst those are very helpful, they too can cause bacteria to flourish.   This is not to say don’t use them, but change frequently to cut down the risk.   There are times when it is vital for peace of mind to use such things, and they can be invaluable.

The second related issue is how much liquid to drink?   Ladies with a leakage problem often think that the less they drink, the less risk there is of an accident.   What happens is that the urine becomes stronger, thus increasing the bacteria, and making the painful burning sensation more unbearable.  We all know the situation, a special function, and the really big knickers that streamline the body.   Trouble is that they are just about impossible to get off in the toilet, so it is tempting to sip drinks to avoid the inconvenience.

That might be okay occasionally, but go back to drinking the amount of water required to keep the system working properly.

Solutions for Stress Incontinence

Being reliant on pads is only part of the solution.   It is better to strengthen the pelvic floor, to prevent leakage.   After giving birth whether naturally or by caesarean, weakness can occur.   Similarly with other gynaecological procedures.   The medical profession always recommends pelvic floor exercises, but how many of us are willing to do them?  A new mum has enough on her plate without considering anything else.

Pelvic Floor Exercises are simple enough, just tightening the muscles and relaxing.   This can be best experienced when urinating, and learning to stop mid stream.   Once the sensation of stopping the urine is mastered, this exercise can be continued for a few minutes at a time several times a day.

In severe cases a physiotherapist might help, by using a gadget inserted into the vagina, linked to a computer, one will see on a screen the efforts being made, and encouragement being given to ‘try harder’!

Testing the Capacity of the Bladder

If after reading the section on the bladder it came as a surprise to you that 8 visits to the toilet were what was required to empty the bladder, it might be worth testing your own performance!  Without making notes it is often difficult to know exactly.   All that is needed is a chart with the time of day running down the side of the page, and at the top fluid intake, and fluid out put.   Use an old plastic measuring jug for the visits to the toilet, remember to rinse it after use, and wash your hands.   Record the amount.

When taking liquids try to drink from items that are easily judged, a water jug, or drinking mugs that you know exactly the capacity of.   Everything you drink needs to be put on the chart, even soup.   You may have to carry out this experiment over a long weekend, as it can be difficult in the work place.

The findings can be very revealing.   Do we actually go to the toilet because we feel the need, or is it a habit.   Do we wake up in the night because of a disturbance, and think that it is a good idea to go to the toilet a the same time?   Have we noticed that when a toilet is not readily available we can go the whole night long?

Asking ourselves just how much is conditioning, and how much is need can tell us a lot about our habits.

Other Health Issues If UTIs Are Not Treated

This is a serious condition and should not be left untreated, because ignoring the problem could lead to kidney damage. It may be that you have had a number of antibiotics and have found that you are resistant to them, and now wish to consider the alternatives.

First Aid For A Quick Fix

However much you do not wish to go to the toilet for fear of pain, you simply must drink lots of water.   A large glass every 20 minutes for at least three hours, then one every hour after that.  Take on teaspoonful of BICARBONATE OF SODA in a large glass of water once an hour for three hours.   This will make the urine less acidic, so will make urination bearable, and will arrest the growth of bacteria.  Warning, do not try this treatment if you have heart, kidney, liver or blood pressure problems.

To further alleviate the condition, a mild painkiller can be used, and hot water bottles or wheat packs could be used on the back, abdomen an between the thighs.   Then cosy in to the settee with a good book or film to take you mind of it!

Relief from the exterior burning can be achieved by applying the Bach RESCUE CREAM, which  will cool and calm the sensitive and painful area

Herbal Supplements

Cranberry

The history of the Cranberry is a long one.   The early settlers to America were given the berries to treat infections, wounds, indigestion and liver disease.   The native peoples knew the value of the this plant.  It was found useful to sailors; it cured scurvy, the active ingredient Vitamin C.   Cranberry was recognised as a treatment for cystitis and bladder problems, but thought of as old wives tales.   Sad that it has taken four hundred years to be accepted as a useful medicinal plant.

Much research has been carried out and the conclusions without a doubt show that Cranberry is successful at curing and reducing urinary tract infections.

Two glasses of the Cranberry juice a day is regarded as sufficient to fight urinary problems.   The active ingredient is ARBUTIN.   It works by stopping the E.coli sticking to the lining of the bladder.   Combined with the drinking of water, the harmful bacteria can be flushed out of the system.   Whilst this is good, the Cranberry juice on sale in the supermarkets is only about one third Cranberry, the rest water and sugar.   Sugar is known to crash the immune system, and right now, it needs boosting.   Also, diabetics would find the sugar levels unacceptably high.

There is a product CRAN MAX, a powdered concentrate available from health food shops.   One research treated 12 women with CRAN MAX and another 12 with low dose antibiotic.   In 6 months there was one case of UTI in the CRAN MAX group, the other 11 women having no further problems, whilst there were 25 cases in the antibiotic group, an average of 2 cases per person.

Cranberry juice has been found to neutralise the odour of urine, so it is often used in homes for the elderly to reduce the smell, as well of course of helping prevent the UTIs.

Warning if suffering from diabetes, Cranberry juice is not for you due to the high sugar content.

Uva Ursi

The herb ARCTOSTAPHYLUS UVA-URSI (Bearberry) is a relative of the Cranberry and the blue berry.   It too has the active ingredient ARBUTIN.   The Romans knew of its properties, as did the Chinese and the Native Americans.

It has a strong antiseptic effect on the bladder and urinary systems, regarded as the best for this purpose.   It has also antibiotic and diuretic qualities.   It is taken as a tincture, a few drops in some water three times a day.   A tincture is quite simply the herb, steeped in alcohol, then strained, what is left, is the tincture, usually brownish in colour, and not smelling too appetising.

Warning if taken in large doses Uva Ursi might in very rare cases cause ringing of the ears, nausea, vomiting, sense of suffocation, shortness of breath, convulsions, delirium and collapse.   Always stick to the recommended dose.

Solidago

Another herbal tincture which works as a diuretic.   It has anti-inflammatory properties.   It could be used with the Uva Ursi.   Solidago has been approved by the German Commission E monograph.   The Commission E is the equivalent of the Food and Drugs Administration in the USA.

There are actually quite a few herbs that would help, but the above mentioned are the most recognized.

Self Help

Now you know what food to eat and  what herbs to take, you need to make a plan, and the best way of doing this is to commit this to paper, a spread sheet-type of arrangement.   This is your body; your suffering and misery, a serious commitment is necessary to get rid of the problem.   Being reliant on a health care professional is not enough, the effort has to be made by yourself.

You might decide that you need two glasses of Cranberry juice a day, three doses of Uva Ursi, an abdominal rub of Bergamot and Tea Tree Oil, and you should decide on how much water you need to drink,(divide this into so much per hour) Also list food items that should be included in the diet.  This will keep you right, and give you the feeling that your are taking control of your situation.

Record also the times per day that you practice the pelvic floor exercises.

If no improvement is being made seek the advice of a health care professional.

Emotions

How are you feeling, what is going on in your life?  Yes, you are no doubt pretty fed up with the cystitis.   But anything else?   Most of us have some issue or another.   Louise L. Hay the famous author of ‘You Can Heal Your Life’ also produced “Heal Your Body’.   In this book she gives information on different parts of the body and how they relate to emotions.   Problems with the eyes represents the incapacity to see clearly, past, present and future.   Deafness she suggests is not wanting to hear.   For cystitis she suggests ‘anxiety’, ‘holding on to old ideas’, ‘fear of letting go’, ‘being pissed off’   Louise L. Hay suggested the following affirmation ‘I comfortably and easily release the old and welcome the new in my life, I am safe’.    Even if you think this a crazy idea, take time to consider it.   As for affirmations, they are commonly used in the business world if targets need to be met, and customers convinced that what is on offer is right for them.

Bach Flower Remedies

A few decades before Louise L. Hay, an English Harley Street doctor had similar thoughts.   He recognised that his patients would make a recovery if their mental states were positive.   Dr. Edward bach perfected remedies for 38 states of negativity.   He used plants plants to alleviate feelings of anger, resentment, lack of self esteem, and many more.   You can self diagnose, and the drops are readily available from chemists an health food shops.

Finally

There are a number of alternative therapists that could help. It is comforting to have Reiki, Reflexology, Acupuncture or Aromatherapy.   Ak at your local health food shop for recommendations.  All  these therapists should be licensed, caring, reassuring and professional.

Mothers of small children need eyes at the back of their heads to watch over their little treasures.  It is rare to get through the toddling stage without some nasty falls and bangs to the head. For children it is part of growing up, and they need to learn that some things are burny, jaggy or owee!

Accidents still happen even when we have taken great care to keep dangerous things out of harm’s way.

The following suggestions are for natural First Aid; for serious accidents medical care should be sought.

Suggestions for the first aid cupboard, and pocket/handbag.

1. Arnica is the most useful homeopathic treatment to prevent bruising and aid healing. The cream can be applied directly provided that the skin is unbroken. The pills come in a little blue phial, and need to be dispensed into the cap of the phial, or onto a plastic spoon.The reason for this is that the properties of the homeopathic treatment are negated if touched by hand. If this is a new idea to you, try it out, and observe the the results.  Works for grown ups too!

2. Rescue Remedy traditionally comes in a small bottle with a dropper.  This is for the shock of the accident. There are five plants in the mix:-

• Star of Bethlehem: against shock and trauma
• Rock Rose: against terror
• Clematis: against feelings of faintness and not being fully present
• Impatiens:  against agitation
• Cherry Plum:  against loss of self control

Rescue Remedy is thought of as the band aid of the emotions. It is now possible to buy Rescue Remedy as pastilles and a spray.

3. Rescue Cream can be applied to the cleaned up cuts and grazes.

When purchasing these items, look out for the leaflet giving information on the 38 remedies, to help with other emotional issues such as lack of confidence, anger, jealousy and fear.  They are enormously helpful when dealing with the childhood ups and downs.

4. Tea Tree Cream can be used to protect against germs on an open wound.  Always follow the  manufacturers instructions.

These suggestions are a good basis for the necessary first aid pack.

The Rescue Remedy bottle and the Arnica phial are small, the tubes of cream could be decanted into the tiny plastic pots on sale for the holiday travel found in stores like Boots.  It makes it easy to always have them in a bag or pocket for the emergencies when they happen.

Prickly Heat, Nettle Rash, Hives, Urticaria

Four names for the same thing, a specific skin condition caused by huge amounts of histamine released by the Mast cells found in the skin.  It can be caused by a number of things, dust, pollen, animal fur, and excessive heat.

The name Nettle Rash is appropriate because that is what it looks like, small, angry red blisters. So too Prickly Heat as it often appears when the weather is very hot.  Yes, it does prickle, and is itchy. It usually shows on the arms, neck and throat. Just what you don’t want on holiday.

In severe cases this can cause swelling around the eyes, and if it affects the throat, then breathing can be difficult, and would require medical treatment.

You may find that Prickly Heat only affects you when on holiday. Consider what is different from being at home (apart from loads of sun!) Hotel soap, new perfume, and of course the sun protection. It is found that the sun protection causes 3% of Prickly Heat. Did you have the problem last year? If so, think about what you used, and consider a different cream.

Stress can also be a factor.

Certain foods may make the situation worse, with the help of a nutritionalist one can find out the offending foods.

Anti-histamine will help combat the histamine causing the problem. This can be an over the counter remedy and it would be wise to take some with you just in case.  Some of these can cause lethargy, even the anti drowsy one. Cortisone is very effective at controlling Hives, but can cause drowsiness as well as other side effects

A short term solution could be a hot shower which would increase the histamine production. Once the histamine has been released, this should bring some relief for a few hours until the histamine builds up again. In the long term not the complete answer, but will offer some comfort until another solution can be found.

Alternative solutions.

• Nettle (Urtica)  as tincture, tea, capsules
• Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)
• Vitamin C
• Beta-carotene supplement (15 mg)
• Quercetin
• Bathing
• Aloe-Vera
• Homoeopathy
• Food
• Sandalwood Essential Oil
• Mint Ice Cubes
• Flower Essences, Rescue Remedy

Something from the following should be of benefit. We are all different as human beings, and what might work for one may not work for another. Here are the suggestions.

Nettles in spite of causing a  rash, the plant contains anti-histamine and anti-allergic properties.  This can be taken in tincture form, in capsules, or made as a tea and applied topically.

Jewel weed (Impatiens capensis).  Dr James Duke recounts the story of experimenting by stinging both wrists with the stinging nettle.   He then applied a solution of lawsone, the active ingredient of the Jewel weed plant to one wrist, the treatment was instant.   The crushed plant would also help.

Vitamin C is  a natural anti-histamine, it will reduce the amount of histamine produced.   If low doses are taken throughout the day, in conjunction with the  A. Vogel tincture Urtica, this increases the effectiveness of the treatment.

Beta-carotene supplement (15 mg) daily, taken two weeks before the holiday. Find it in health food shops.

Quercetin, amongst other things is an anti-histamine.  The foods rich in Quercetin are lovage, apples, tea and onion, especially the red onion. The highest concentration occurs in the dry, outer skins.   Quercetin can be bought as a supplement. The recommended dose, 500 mg twice a day.

Bathing the body with a slice of lemon in the water.

Aloe-Vera has long been associated with bringing about relief from sun burn, and burns in general.   This can be applied as a gel, or taken internally.

Homoeopathy -There are a few that are reputed to work according to how the Prickly Heat presents it’s self. The condition can vary from being worse at night,  causing chills, very red and large, chronic and causing fever. The suggested remedies are Apis, Natrum muriaticum, Rhus toxicodendron, Urtica and Arsenicum album. If you chose this method of  treatment, it is wise to ask the advice of a Homeopath.
Also, Weleda’s Urtica Cream can bring about relief.

Food -During an attack of Hives Dr Thomas Bartram recommends avoiding foods that cause sweating;  hot drinks, curries and peppers.

Sandalwood Essential Oil – The ancient Indian Ayurvedic treatment would be to use 20 drops of oil to one ounce almond carrier oil,   Apply every 3-4 hours.   In India Hives are known as ‘pitta’ meaning fiery.   Sandalwood will calm the skin.

Mint Ice Cubes,  cooling cubes are an idea from herbal educator Norma Pasekoff Weinberg, using two teaspoons of fresh mint, or one of dried, add boiling water, allow to to infuse, strain and cool. Pour into cube trays, freeze, and when needed cool the affected parts.

Flower Essences. If the attack is more sever at times of stress, perhaps looking at a mental solution, for example the Bach Flower Remedies, Mimulus for fear and anxiety.   Rescue Remedy would be the best ‘first aid’ for the emotions.

Sources

Alternative Cures  Bill Gottleib ISBN 978-0-345-50539-2
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine   Thomas Bartram    ISBN 978-1-85487-586-0
Green Pharmacy James Duke  ISBN 0-87596-316-1
Alfred Vogel Institute

The long threatened ‘pandemic’ is now upon us.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) in the UK gives the following advice.

To cover up the nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, throw away tissues promptly and carefully, and to wash hands and surfaces which are regularly touched.

That is pretty good advice. The use of tissues is essential. Depending on the build of the person sneezing, a sneeze can travel at 80 miles per hour. the droplets can spread about 25 feet from the source of origin. This covers the hair and clothing of those around us, and everything that it touches. The NHS have had a public information broadcast on the dangers of sneezing without a handkerchief. It is set in a lift, with the familiar phrase “going down”, the first person entering the lift sneezes in the lift, thereafter it shows further users of the lift being contaminated by the germs,  hence the phrase “going down” with colds etc.

It would be wise to collect used tissues into a plastic bag, and then binned. The importance of hand washing can’t be emphasized enough

But what else can be done?

If the Swine Flu becomes a serious threat in your area then self protection is vital. Tea Tree Oil has powerful antiviral properties. If you have to travel by air,  train or bus, anywhere there are lots of people jammed together, consider putting a little Tea Tree Oil onto a scarf or tissue and sniff frequently, especially if in the close proximity of someone not so careful about coughing and sneezing. You could make your own hand wipes by cramming a jar with cotton wool pads, adding a little water and four drops of Tea Tree Oil.  You can buy Tea Tree Oil in most health food shops and larger supermarkets.

In homes and offices surfaces should be washed down with TCP. This is an unpleasant smelling stuff that has been used for many years for stop the spread of infection. In the past offices employed companies to come in weekly to clean all the internal office telephones. It Is interesting that recently it has been found that the most contaminated item in the modern office is the keyboard of the computers. It doesn’t bear thinking about the toilet habits of those who used it before you, what they picked, what they scratched! You can pick up keyboard cleaners from your local stationery or computer shop or somewhere like Amazon.

Keeping yourself healthy in general is a good protection, a diet high in Vitamin C, and good organic food will help you. Cut out fizzing drinks and sweet things, as too much sugar will crash the immune system.

The taking of Echinacea in the form of A Vogel Institute Echinaforce will improve the efficiency of the immune system, it is an immunomodulator rather than an immune  stimulant. It has been proven as a herb that will do as it claims, and is a licensed product.   Professor Monica Simmons of Kew Botanical Gardens endorsed the use of Echinacea for this purpose. There is an A .Vogel Echinacea especially for children.

One thing that is sadly missing from the pharmacy shelves is Rose Hip Syrup. This wonderfully sticky orangey red syrup high in Vitamin C was give to most small children to protect against colds.  It was most effective, but alas fell out of favour and removed when there was a concern about possible tooth decay.

Final suggestion, a Bach Flower Remedy for the emotions. The biggest problem at the moment is fear, and that in its self is a problem. The remedy for fear is Mimulus.  The best known remedy is Rescue Remedy, the band aid for the emotions!  It contains five of the remedies:-

Rock Rose for terror
Cherry Plum for losing self control
Clematis for dreaminess, lack of concentration
Impatience for impatience and panic
Star of Bethlehem for shock

Related articles by Zemanta

• Swine flu pandemic could be ‘worse than terrorist attack’ (telegraph.co.uk)
• Scientists Launch Online Swine Flu Survey (news.sky.com)
• Three more die as UK swine flu cases pass 7,500 (guardian.co.uk)
• Bach Flower Remedies – A Cure For All Ailments Part – 1! (dirjournal.com)

Acne

Whilst this is not in any way a serious illness, the effects on the person suffering can be devastating.  It is our face that we show to the world and when it is mutilated by an horrendous outbreak of spots, often at a time when we have just developed an interest in the opposite sex, it can seriously affect confidence and self esteem.

Conventional acne remedies, using drugs.

According to the Bioglan literature available at the doctor’s surgery, the recommended treatment for severe acne is the drug isotretinoin.  It unfortunately has a very bad press.   The web site http://isotretinoinsideeffects.com/ highlights some of the concerns.  Much has been written about the suicides associated with the drug. Clinicians argue that people suffering with acne might already have suicidal tendencies, and further testing would be needed to find out the full facts of the case.

7 natural acne remedies you could try

1. Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B 5

The popularity of this treatment for acne has come about as a result of postings on the Internet.  The web surfers proclaim a daily dose of between 5g-10g per day of Pantothenic Acid will lead to having spot free skin. The medical establishment have shown concern at the high dosage, 4-mg – 7-mg daily they say should be the upper limit.

A study of 100 patients in Hong Kong in 1995 in Hong Kong showed a decrease in the sebum secretion on the face soon after the initial therapy.  [reported in the Medical Hypotheses, the author Dr. Lit-Hung Leung of the Department of General Surgery,]

It was reported that moderate cases cleared up in eight weeks, with more serious conditions taking up to 6 months. Dr Leung argued that people with acne may be deficient in Vitamin B 5 which is a component of coenzyme A, a chemical involved in fatty acid metabolism It is possible that during puberty, hormonal development could take priority, and therefore a lack of coenzyme A for the fats.   While the medical establishment consider the pros and cons of this radical treatment, the Internet is full of sites promoting and selling Vitamin B 5.

The respected herbalist Thomas Bartram writes that B 5 produces healthy skin and hair.

2. Agnus Castus

Agnus Castus is a small Mediterranean herb, used for centuries to balance the female hormones.  It can also be used to treat adolescent acne, for both boys and girls.   Whilst there is no hard evidence, it is thought that it works at a hormonal level to improve the function of the sebaceous glands, and that is at the root cause of the spots.

Agnus Caste can be taken as a tincture.

3. Diet

Q “Does eating greasy food or chocolate make acne worse?”
A “No.   Although acne is linked with too much grease production by the sebaceous glands in the skin, this is not affected by your diet, so don’t let anyone blame your  acne on eating too many chips or too much chocolate.”

That is the medical take on the problem as found in the leaflet in the doctor’s waiting room. It is not a view shared by alternative therapists, nor the celebrities who grace the glossy magazines.

When we consume  food and drink, it travels though our system delivering the nutrients before the waste exits through  the colon and bladder. When the system has had an overload of junk food that it cannot get rid of, then the toxins need to find another route, the skin.  The skin is the largest organ in the body.

The ‘bad foods’ are ones containing saturated fat in animal products, and hydrogenated fat in processed food.  What is required is a change in eating habits, lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, and lots of water to drink.

4. Nettle Tea

In the days before supermarkets, and indeed grocery shops, the folks of the land would welcome the first green plant after the winter, the nettle.   It was a source of food, but also recognised as a ‘blood purifier’.  After a long winter of cereals and salted meats the human body needed tis change.  Until recently older people in the country would still recommend the drinking of nettle tea to cleanse the blood, to rid the body of toxins, and thus clears the skin.

Other plants that provide the same service are the leaves of the blackberry, strawberry or raspberry, or the flower of the coltsfoot.  To each add boiling water, infuse, strain an drink.  Honey can be added to make it more palatable.

Please see our previous post on how to make nettle tea.

5. Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can work in different ways to help in the treatment of acne.  Following the previous topic, it is necessary to get rid of the toxins in the system.  An aromatherapist can use oils and massage to increase the circulation, and improve the lymphatic system. A body performing well will help make a start on the underlying problem.

Certain oils can be used to treat the face, for example, Tea Tree in dilution will help with skin hygiene.

With a problem like acne when the skin is distressed, it would be better to take professional aromatherapist advice to find the oils suitable to the individual.  The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) can help you find a qualified aromatherapist.

6. Facial Steam Treatments

Having a weekly at home facial steam treatment using the herb Yarrow can help. Add 1 teaspoon of yarrow to a basin of steaming water, cover the head with a towel, and allow the steam to open and drain the pores. Be sensible about the distance to the steam, do not get so close that it will cause the face to burn.

7. Cleanliness

Great care must be taken with hygiene.  The face should be kept clean, but without rubbing and scrubbing.  Gentle patting with fresh cotton wool can work.  Never share a face cloth with others.  Take care and use discretion with soaps and specialized products for acne.

Keep the hands and nails scrupulously clean, because there is an unconscious tendency to touch the face, we don’t realize just how often we do it.

8. Flower Remedies

The prevalent emotions presented with by acne sufferers are different forms of depression.  The following Bach Flower Remedies may also alleviate the following feelings

feelings of hopelessness and despair      Gorse
anguish                                                          Sweet Chestnut
descending gloom                                       Mustard
low self esteem                                            Crab Apple

The remedies are relatively inexpensive, there are thirty eight different emotions catered for, and one can self diagnose, leaflets are available in heal food stores.

Conclusion

Whilst it is true that the vast majority of acne cases are experienced in adolescents, one person in 20 will continue to have acne to some extent, often women in the days before menstruation.  It seems no coincidence that the  high instance of acne occurs around puberty when the hormones are in turmoil.   So in some measure if the hormones can be controlled or balanced, this will go some way to alleviating the problem. Therefore Agnus Castus could be a good herb to take.

In spite of the handout in the doctor’s surgery that diet is not a factor, it has been noted that  in the Eskimo society, acne was unknown until a Western diet was adopted. Another study found the teenagers in New Guinea and Paraguay did not suffer from acne, again Western food not part of the diet.   Scientists caution that more studies into the findings need to be made before conclusions can be reached.

The underlying causes are dietary and hormonal.   Acne may be aggravated if the diet contains too many carbohydrates or fats.   The body may not have the metabolism to deal with the problem.   Therefore cutting down on fatty foods and sweets should be encouraged.  More fruit and vegetables should be included into the diet.

Last thought.   Louis L. Hay who writes on the mental causes of health problems states that acne is   ‘Not accepting the self. Dislike of the self”  She suggests the affirmation
“I am a Divine expression of life, I love an accept myself where I am right now” You can make of that what you will – it doesn’t cost anything to do., so maybe give it a go?

Good luck