Going Away Check List

Going away to visit another ecology can be challenging for us.

I have often seen people suffering from unexplained ills that have a pivot point of travel to another climate/overseas. We may have the benefit of a resistant immune system at home.

Travel to exotic destinations are a whole different kettle of fish.

So what can we do?
The obvious would be to be cautious of water supply for drinking. This applies to ice cubes and frozen fruit treats. Wash fruits and vegetables in a mild peroxide solution. I like a product called 'Oxygen Solution. It is effective  and a basin of water only needs 10 drops or so.  Grapeseed extract is another really potent anti-bacterial solution. This can be used by the drop internally so it is safe for foods. 

So here is a basic run down on prevention

Acidophilus

It is important to fill the intestines with bacteria that produce low toxins.  This increases resistance by ‘filling the space’ and reduces the change of opportunistic organisms to proliferate in the intestines unchecked. If you can’t provide some degree of refrigeration, look for an entero coated product that will stay stable even in the heat.

Udo Super 5 from Flora is an oral version that inoculates the mouth, throat and stomach.  This needs to be kept cool.

Melatonin/ Insomnia Pellets

I prefer Melatonin Time Released by Innovite.  Take 4 or 5 at once, and then reduce the amount by one the next night and so on, if you are sleeping better.  Insomnia Pellets by Homeocan, are also helpful to keep sleeping patterns back on track, especially when jet lagged.  Our bodies have a Circadian rhythm that can become interrupted by travel through different time zones.  Also if you are a person who is always waking up at 3 in the morning like clockwork, this is a ‘blip’ in the Circadian rhythm.

Another essential is Emergen-C, an mineral ascorbate powder that goes fizzy when you put it in water. Comes in great flavours. My fav is Lemon/lime. When you feel wonky, head achy, queasy or your digestion feels wonky, cut back on food for a short time and try this. Use 1/2 packet at a time every hour, up to 4 doses.  

Unda # 710 Homeopathic Complex

As a preventative, take 5 drops morning and 5 drops at bedtime.  This remedy tends to be more for ears, nose, throat, and sinuses.  For people who have ear trouble when traveling by airplane this would be started a week or more before the flight. For general resistant to airborne pathogens, take 5 drops at bedtime only.

Unda # 37 Homeopathic Complex

Is to support and fight pathogens such as virus and bacteria.  5 Drops at bedtime is suggested for prevention, but when fighting something, take 5 drops morning and night.

Unda # 39 Homeopathic Complex

This complex discourages parasites from gaining a toe-hold.  Take 5 drops at bedtime throughout the vacation.  No matter what, be really careful of water supply while away.  Remember that ice cubes are local water.

Vitamin C/Vitamin A

This is generally great to take to increase protection and immunity and cell integrity (resistance).  Also Vitamin D3 400 IU daily can help resist flu and colds.

Multi Vitamin/Mineral

If you are going to the trouble of hauling a multi vitamin/mineral around and commit to taking a multi with every darn meal, make sure it is a really good quality and is absorbed well.  I prefer Progressive Nutrition formulas.  They are in capsules rather than tablet form.

Oil of Oregano/Echinacea/Goldenseal

Oil of Oregano is an antiseptic whereas Echinacea is an immune simulator.  Echinacea is good to have handy, in case of infection or onset of illness, but oil of oregano is safe to use every day preventatively.  Goldenseal herb is a great infection fighter, especially in a viral overgrowth, but again is used if and when needed.

Here is an interesting way to use Oil of Oregano. It is my airport special.

Eye Drops

The trouble with eye drops is that they are usually preserved with something nasty.  Ephrasia Stilidoses is homeopathic Eyebright herb, in single application ampules.  This is great to use to flush the eyes after swimming in chlorine treated pools or in lakes and oceans. Sisu also makes a good natural eye drop formula that will soothe and clean the sensitive eye tissue.  Just a note, that Katherine Hepburn had trouble with her eyes after the making of the movie, ‘African Queen’.  This ongoing problem was contributed to the river water where they were filming.

Fiber/Water

It is a good idea to keep up fiber intake in you diet while away, especially for those who tend to be toilet-shy when away from home.  Take it easy on fruit if your system is not used to it.  Fruit all of a sudden in the bowel can lead to a bout of constipation. Keep hydrated throughout the day. 

Calendula Cream or Mother Tincture

Calendula Tincture, diluted is great to have on hand for scrapes and minor burns, including sunburn.  This also helps to protect the skin from infection as well as speed heal.  Calendula MT is also good for taking out the itch and reducing inflammation.   Not the best choice if the skin is broken.

Hypericum Mother Tincture

Hypericum Tincture, diluted is great to use in place of alcohol or peroxide for an open wound or when the skin is broken.  This can be used in the form of a spray.  Hypericum MT is as well as being an antiseptic, an aid to speed the healing process.  Hypericum MT helps the body to heal from the inside out rather than healing over the surface, and perhaps locking debris within.

Sunscreen/mineral makeup

Sunscreen is essential when traveling to hot climates.  Mineral make up applied by brush is the best protection from sun.  It will not easily sweat or wash off.  Men with extra forehead will do well with mineral makeup.  It is like a thick layer of zinc cream without the cream.  Sensitive skin will do well with this approach.

Adrenal Support

If you need to recoup and restore your energy while away, consider maximizing your build by adding an adrenal supplement to your daily plan.  If you plan to hike all day and dance all night, an adrenal supplement will help carry you through so you don’t arrive back home exhausted.

Liver/Kidney Detox

When vacationing we can often eat more than we usually would at home, and often drink more alcohol than we should.  Look after your filter systems by doing a mild detox daily.  This can be in the form of fresh lemon/lime in pure drinking water, or chlorophyll concentrate in your drinking water.  Take lighter meals the day after overindulging, and drink lots of water.  Homeopathic Nux Vomica 30k can really help the liver to de-tox.

Choline/Nux Vomica 200k

Food poisoning can happen anywhere.  Sometimes the liver and gall bladder have just had enough of our overindulgence.  For nausea, take 1 Choline every 15 minutes until the nausea stops.  Nux Vomica can also be taken at 15-230 minute intervals.  Ginger can be helpful as well, fresh in a tea or in capsules.

Ginger caps/tea/Nux Vomica/Coculus Indicus 200k

Motion sickness can be helped by a natural approach.  You may want to have what you usually use on hand just in case the above doesn't work as well as you would like.

Digestive enzymes

It is wonderful to have fun times where we share great food and great friends.  However, feasts can lead to a burdening of the digestive system.  For example when corn on the cob is added to the rest of the menu, nothing gets digested.  Corn is a considered to be a carbohydrate rather than a vegetable; therefore it can easily be digested when combined with other carbohydrates as well as vegetable.

Food combining has been championed by such food gurus as Harvey and Marilyn Diamond and Suzanne Somers.  Basically you don’t eat proteins and carbohydrates in the same meal.  Fruits (as well as deserts) are eaten alone. 

Digestive enzymes are genuine relief when eating a variety of foods together.  Some products are more carbohydrate specific, others are more protein specific.  If you are burpy and gassy, enzymes will change your world.  Pay attention to what you eat that causes your system to be hurting or in an uproar.

So What If?

If you tend to notice trouble with after eating bread or sugar, this may be a yeast or Candida issue.  Increasing acidophilus may help.

If you develop skin issues, heads up; something is going on in the blood. Get checked out as soon as you can. To be sure, plan a check up for when you get back home. Nipping things in the bud as always a better plan.

 

Noodle Salad with Oriental Dressing

These days I am on a roll.  I want noodle salad with oriental style dressing.  For health reasons I do better with less wheat and gluten so I am using rice noodles.  Soba (buckwheat noodles) is a great choice too.  Asian salad just hits the spot when the weather feels too cold for tossed green salad.

This recipe has many uses and many forms.  Any leftover cooked vegetables can be dressed with this.  Top with grilled chicken, or seafood to create a full meal.  

The Oriental Dressing also makes a great marinade, especially for grilled chicken or shrimp.  It can be noodle heavy, or have little noodle but lots of vegetables.  When there is a plethora is greens, this works well too.

Note:  Arame is a Japanese sea vegetable that looks like black noodles. Grab a pinch and soak it in warm water, Saki, Tamari or soy sauce. Sea veggies are loaded with minerals and are a wonderful source of iodine. Iodine feeds the thyroid gland and boosts stamina and immunity. 

 Oriental Dressing

 ½ Cup Brown Rice Vinegar or sushi style seasoned rice vinegar

½ Cup Agave Syrup (amber)

2 Tbs water

1 large clove garlic, minced fine

1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled and grated

2 Tlbs organic Grape seed oil or any mild tasting oil

½ tsp Toasted Sesame oil

1 tsp hot sauce or to taste (or more if desired) Here I use President’s Choice PC Choice Fiery Thai Chilli Sauce.  It is available locally and is the perfect balance of taste and spice.

1 tsp grated Lime Zest or 4 drops of Lime Essential Oil

Shake well and store in refrigerator

Have available wedges of fresh lime to squeeze over the top

Method:

Cook or soften any style of noodle such as Soba (Quick: I like vermicelli rice noodles that you soften by pouring boiled water over) until tender and rinse well under cool water.  Don’t overcook.  

Topping Suggestions:

Slice green, yellow and red sweet peppers sliver thin. Add fresh snow peas or even defrosted peas are great.  ¼ cup Arame Sea Vegetable soaked in a little Tamari Sauce or Soy Sauce.

Arame sea veggie has an appearance of thin black noodles in the salad. (Found in Health food Stores).

You can garnish with either black sesame seeds or brown. Gomasio (Japanese condiment) is good too.

I have on hand slivers of raw carrot that I have marinated in dill pickle brine.  They are softer and more flavourful than raw.  You can use raw carrots or blanch the carrots and run under cold water.

Top with greens: cilantro, basil, water cress, parsley, bruised kale, spinach……

Remember that the simplest of foods can taste good and be extra nourishing too.  ENJOY!

Kids in the Car! - Natural First Aid Travel Essentials

Attempting to travel or camp with children can be a daunting task.  You want to imagine the worst things that could befall your family and be prepared; yet you don’t want to end up with a bulky package of what –in-cases that take up precious cargo room.  Here are some tried and true summer first aid basics.

The over-all best resource book to have with you is:  ‘Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child’, Zand, Walton and Roundtree.  This resource will cover all the medical, herbal and homeopathic basics.

Most of these resources are available at Health Food Stores.

 Health Care Basics

Hypericum Lotion also called Mother Tincture.  This is used in place of alcohol or peroxide for open wounds, broken skin, inflamed tissues and to prevent infection.  Alcohol or peroxide although it sterilizes, does eat away at the freshly healed tissue somewhat. 

The great thing about Hypericum MT is that it sterilizes, feeds the wound and heals the wound from the inside out.  This is especially beneficial when you suspect particles that may still be in the tissues.  You don’t want the skin to seal on the surface when you’re not sure if there is hair or debris still trapped in the wound

Method:  Dilute 1 part MT to 4 parts water.  Apply with Q-tip or cotton pad or it can be mixed in a sterile spray bottle.  Attempting to spray it on is more successful that trying to come close to an ‘owie’.  Use often to cleanse the wound and speed its healing.  This is a wonderful remedy for post-scratched infected or inflamed bug bites.

Calendula Lotion also called Calendula Mother Tincture.  Whereas Hypericum Lotion is used anytime the skin is open, calendula is most effective for abrasions, burns, chafes, sunburn or any kind of itch.  Calendula does come in an ointment form, but I don’t like putting oil on burns or abrasions.  Calendula, a type of marigold flower, speeds healing, is an antiseptic, and reduces inflammation and pain.

Calendula cream can be used for soothing and healing an irritated scalp and works well for a dandruff prone scalp.  It is great for reducing the itch of insect bites heat rash and for sunburn.  In regard to diaper rash, calendula can be used on the skin as a healing layer, and a barrier product used on top of it.

As a quick first aid for kitchen burns, Calendula is without rival.  Calendula helps to take the heat out of a burn fast. A word of caution, Calendula is not recommended for open wounds and where the skin is broken.

Method:  Dilute 1 part MT to 4 parts water.  Apply with Q-tip or cotton pad or it can be mixed in a sterile spray bottle. Use often to speed healing and increase comfort.

Summer dehydration

It is the minerals in our bodies that keep the water balanced in the cells. In the summer we gravitate to cooling hydrating foods such as celery, peaches, watermelon, and cucumber.  Adding sea vegetables such as kelp, nori or dulse to our diets can help us to keep our cool during hot weather (much better than refined table salt).  Enduralyte or a quality unsweetend electrolyte formula can really help us to keep our blood minerals balanced in the heat.

Biochemical cell salts

When we are cremated, what is left over is cell salts.  They are the carbon components of our own tissues.  Cell salts stimulate and support proper function of cell/organ/system.  They keep water in balance and feed the body at a cellular level.

The Summer Cell Salts

To relieve stomach upset, bloating, intestinal discomfort and lassitude consider Kali Mur, Nat Phos, and Nat Sulph.  They are usually found in low potencies such as 6x or 12x.  Their value is vastly underrated especially in regard to very young children.

Homeopathics are diluted forms of plant material that cause a healing and balancing response in the body. For home use you would be using low potencies.  I will let you do your own research on this. 

Think of an aeroplane traveling down a runway, and you notice one wheel drifting off the tarmac, Homeopathics are a way of nudging the body back on track.  (Balance)

The Integrative Approach

Use herbs and vitamins and minerals as well as Homeopathics.  Not all or nothing.

Also support the body long term. What else would help?  Don’t lose sight of the cause.

Heat Exhaustion

Tissue Salts 12 in One-Melange (all of the 12), Encourage small sips of water,

Consider Homeopathic Aconite

Skin eruptions

 Kali Mur, Kali Sulph, Calc Sulph, and Silica

Rashes, itch, nettle rash, or heat rash

Urtica homeopathic

Poison ivy

Rhus Tox 6x homeopathic or Urtica

Also avoid eating cashews and mangoes which are in the same food family.

Sprains and Bruises

Arnica 30k

Can use Arnica liposome topically for swelling

Ruta 30 or 200k for deeper bone bruising

Concussion

Arnica 200k

Always seek medical care.

Burns including sunburn

Calendula Lotion topically

Utica Urens or Cantharis Homeopathic

Protect the skin from sun by using non allergenic pure mineral makeup as sunscreens.  These fine powders will not sweat off easily or get easily washed off.

Insect Bites and Stings

Hypericum Tincture topically

Golden Seal Herb poultice and internally as a tea (not when Pregnant)

Homeopathic Apis or Urtica

Motion Sickness

Cocculus homeopathic

Bone Breaks

Symphytum homeopathic

Always seek medical aid.  This remedy encourages and stimulates the natural healing of the broken bones.  I would also recommend the extra use of a good cal mag for the initial first week or so of the healing. I suggest Floradix Liquid Cal Mag.  This product is made from food, and is more body friendly.  This is especially important for optimum absorption for children.  It will, however, require refrigeration.

Muscle Cramps or growing pains

Again, Flora Liquid Cal Mag.   Give a couple of teaspoons every 10 minutes or so until the cramping stops.  This is especially important for absorption for children

Food Poisoning

Nux Vomica homeopathic and Choline 1 tablet every 15 minutes.  Cheladonium Plex is a helpful homeopathic plex that can be taken ongoing for a week or so to bring the digestive system fully back to balance.  The use of live culture probiotics is essential.

Digestive Disturbances

The summer tissue salts are helpful: Kali Mur, Nat Phos and Nat Sulph.  Probiotics and digestive enzymes are helpful to restore the gut.  The overall reducing fatty foods and processed foods can help.  Reducing mucous forming foods such as dairy and wheat can be helpful while the body is recovering.  Cheladonium Plex can be helpful when used over a longer period of time to strengthen the digrestion. 

Parasites

Black Walnut Tincture, Cina 30k, Unda # 39

Over-indulgence of food, alcohol or too much mental work

Nux Vomica 30k or 200k, Choline

Coughs and Respiratory Congestion

Drosera, Spongia, Dulcamera in 30k or 200k

Flu or Sudden illness

Unda # 37, Oscillococcinum by Boroin or Flu Buster by Homeocan are good treatments when used at the earliest onset of flu symptoms

Aconite homeopathic is good to have on hand for anything that comes on suddenly.  Even for emotional scares, like a near traffic accident, aconite is helpful to restore balance.  Keep this in mind for when there is stuttering from fear or anxiety.

Another product worth keeping on hand is ‘Febriplex’.  This is an especially effective for children, when coming down with cold, fever, flu and gripe. Most products that people choose tend to suppress the body’s functions.  Febriplex is a homeopathic plex that supports the body’s self-healing efforts.

Plexes (combinations) are helpful for motivating the healing process, and helping increase comfort.

Just a note of wisdom; sometimes emergency treatment is necessary.  Natural and 1^st Aid basics can be employed even while proceeding to Medical care.  According to Steig Larsson,author of 'Girl with the Dragon Tatoo', if you are absolutely desperate for something to cover a wound and there are no bandages handy; our ever handy duct tape can keep a wound clean and effectively slow bleeding until you reach a medical facility.

The Sanity Section

For Mom:  Hormone - PMS and Menopause

Sepia – hateful/spiteful/ wants to be left alone

Pulsatilla – moody/weepy/consolable wants you near

Keep Grounded

Stopping frequently is essential for adults and children alike.  Stretching your legs once an hour or two at the most, is a great way to keep alert and grounded.  Switch drivers at least once every two hours.

Keep Hydrated

We often think we are hungry when the body is really crying out for water.  Hydration makes us more electrical.  It keeps our brains alert.  Water keeps our kidneys working well and flushing properly.

Keep Nourished

Healthy snacks are another way to nourish, hydrate and entertain.  Visiting Fresh Produce stands can be a great way of getting a break as well.  Traveling is usually a time when our systems can feel sluggish.

Pay particular attention to include fibre rich foods.  Fresh fruits, vegetables are essential for keeping our bowels working.  Reduce the glue foods like sugar, pasta, chips and refined flour.

Keep Rested

Avoid being over tired.  Stop for the night rest early and settle in and do something fun.  Nothing beats the ‘grumpies’ like a refreshed and well rested crew.

Keep Entertained

Pack efficiently.  Creating a clutter free space for each traveler reduces irritation for everyone.

 

Put some brain-space into preplanning your trip. Get your hands on some really great kid’s pastimes that work well in a confined space.  Hide them away and create a new surprise to open up each day of travel.  Create travel games.  Counting horses with spots, or being the first to spy non-home-province license plates, or playing interactive word games can be a fun way of putting in travel time.  My friend Amy brought along small DVD screens that could be attached to the back of the front seats. 

One very creative Dad I know took along dice.  This way the family could leave a lot of decisions to chance.  Stop?  Not stop?  Eat here?  Stop x minutes.  Who wins a decision score?

Drivers, invent a signal that means we’re off NOW!  What ever it is, make the signal consistent and tolerate no doddling. I remember traveling across the continent.  The signal was a final rev of the engine in neutral which meant ‘all aboard’.  After the first day, we were all ‘hopping to’ just like trained dogs.

Create an intention of FUN!  Even young children can appreciate that the purpose of the travel is to spend time enjoying each other.  Take lots of fun photos. Don’t be afraid to create whacky photos.  Consider writing an ongoing group travelogue for your trip.

Do you have some great ideas?  Please share.

Have a great summer and keep well_

Nelda

Non Paying Tenants

Recently, people have been asking me about treatments to prevent parasites.  Parasites can be contracted from soil, foods, and contact with other people or pets. We have become quite accustomed to purchasing fruit and vegetables that originate from other countries. The 100 Mile Rule is a consumer movement that advocates only buying products that are from our own locality and one’s own ecology. 

My grandmother felt that parasites where a thing to be actively reckoned with.  Tonics and de-worming potions were routinely given in the spring and fall.  However, in my mother’s generation an unusual arrogance settled in.  For some reason, people began to believe that if we lived in a first world country, we were too sophisticated to have such visitors.  This was a great time to be alive if you were a parasite.

Opportunistic organisms such as viruses, bacteria and parasites are…well…. opportunistic.  That means if you give them an inch, they will take a mile.  Parasites don’t thrive well in a healthy body.  When our immune systems are strong and vigilant  and when our digestive systems have appropriate stomach acids and the enzymes are plentiful, we are more resistant to parasites are working well.

Many kinds of parasites but generally they fall into two groups; single celled or large body.  In children we find the very common parasites:  round worm and pin worm.  There are also single celled micro-organisms such as amoeba and protozoa that can cause misery.  In addition there is thread worm, tissue worms, tapeworm, flukes of all sorts, salmonella, neospora, just to name a few.

It isn’t just the parasites that cause us grief; it is the toxins they generate as well.  Many people with unresolved skin issues will find parasites and their toxins at the root of their problems.  Parasites may not be the first thing that occurs in a person’s body, but if the ‘digs’ are right, the parasites move right in.  Usually, parasites go hand in hand with other opportunistic overgrowths such as bacteria and Candida yeast and fungus.  This rogue ecology can really overwhelm the body’s elimination systems.

There are foods that are very effective for reducing infestations of parasites.  In the fall we have many foods available that help our bodies resist and eliminate parasites.  Raw pumpkin seeds are effective, as is garlic, cloves, apple cider vinegar, cranberry juice and pomegranates.  Calmyrna Figs are a great addition to the general diet.  If you have ever eaten a Fig Newton, you probably have noticed that when you chewed the seeds well, they felt like you were crushing glass.  These seeds damage the body of the parasites.

Wormwood is a herb that is effective in powder or capsule form.  This has been an age old remedy for parasites.  Another common herb that is a deterrent to parasites is Black Walnut.  I prefer this in a tincture form. Homeopathic Cina in low potencies can be effective to rid the body of parasites.  Also homeopathic complexes have been designed for helping to rid the body of parasite overgrowths,

It makes sense to re-build the body after a parasite cleanse.  Making a real effort to clean up the digestive tract can help the body to be more resistant to overgrowths.  Taking a supplement of bacteria with low toxin (such as acidophilus) helps to ‘fill the space’ and crowds out infectious bacteria, yeast, fungus and parasites. Having a wellness program in place that includes supplementing with digestive supports at every meal can really give our digestives systems the ‘edge’ against parasites taking hold.

As with every bit of advice, something may be generally true, but not necessarily specifically true.  If you feel that parasites may be at the root of a chronic concern, it is best to contact a health professional. 

Keep Well_
Nelda

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An Interesting Brew

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I really hate the taste of Oil of Oregano, yet it is one of the most amazing remedies when bacterial overgrowth is an issue.  Oil of Oregano is a definite ‘keep on hand’ for your home care and first aid kit.

In point of fact, many of the culinary herbs and spices that we use on a daily basis have anti-microbial benefits.  Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, basil, cilantro, and lavender, all have infection fighting qualities.  Turmeric, often used in the making of pickles, is a great anti-inflammatory. Cloves discourage parasites, as does Cumin and Coriander seed.  Parsley cleans the blood, and black pepper aids digestion and circulation.

I usually buy a natural throat spray (Natural Factors and Organika make good ones) that usually contains bee propolis, Echinacea and other herbs.  I then add about 10 drops of my Oil of Oregano to it.   I spray this brew into the back of my throat as a defence when the masses are sniffling and sneezing around me. 

When I was on holiday in March I ran out of it, just when my throat was feeling a little scratchy.  Yikes!  What to do! My son-in-law had some vodka on hand, and my daughter had some oil of oregano.  I re-filled the spray bottle with the vodka and added the oil.  Whew, saved.

When I got back home I had used most of this concoction up.  I found a little spiced rum in the back of my cupboard and thought ‘why not’, its food grade alcohol.

This was the find of the century! The spice of the rum seems to cancel out the spice of the oil of oregano.  All that is left is kind of a vanilla under taste.

I have heard from the grapevine that Sailor Jerry’s is the best rum, but I used Capt Morgan’s.  Whichever you prefer, you may want to give this strange brew a try.  Let me know if it works.

Keep well

Nelda

There is No Such Thing as a Small Thing

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In my world, there is no such thing as a small thing.  Small adjustments in our lifestyle can gain huge benefits.  Let me tell you a story:

I had a history of sinusitis, rhinitis, and tonsillitis as a child.  In fact, I have lymph scaring from repeated tonsillitis.  I was also repeatedly treated with antibiotics.  By the age of 12, I had the appearance of very angry looking adolescent acne.  This misery continued through most of my 20’s.  For a time, I was under the care of a dermatologist who put me on (Tetracycline) a wide-spectrum antibiotic for at least 5 years.  He would often give my breakouts local injections of cortisone

My digestive system and menstrual become wonky (now I recognize the typical signs of Candida and yeast overgrowth).  I took my self off the medication, before I found that I was pregnant, thank God, but unfortunately, my baby still had the signs of Candida yeast as well (cradle cap, thrush and a wicked chronic diaper rash).

In hind sight, this is what I know about myself. 

I was very allergic to cigarette smoke.  When I was growing up, both of my parents smoked inside the home.  My Dad quit at some point, probably when I was near my teens, but my Mom continued to smoke for the rest of her life.  When I was in my early 30's, I had a session with a Specialized Kinesiologist to reverse the allergy to cigarette smoke.  It worked very well.  Now I don’t like being in a smoky environment or smelling it on other people's clothes, but at least it doesn’t ‘zone me’.  I have to be honest here and admit that I smoked as well, off and on throughout my 20’s.  Cigarettes make me feel really sick, no matter who smokes them.

I am intolerant of cow’s dairy.  I don’t have any acute reactions to dairy.  Rather it congests me over time, and if I keep ingesting it, I begin to get cysts under the skin of my face, chest and upper back. I was fed cow’s milk from the time I was born.  It was in every desert and sauce, and a staple in the home where I grew up.  I loved milk!  I love cheese!

I am very allergic to oranges and kiwi fruit.  I break out in weeping hives almost immediately.  It used to appear on my face, but fortunately, if I get a reaction now while really being vigilant about avoiding most fruits, I just get a small breakout on my butt.  I loved orange juice, and drank it happily every day!

My first solid food as an infant was Pablum, wheat and other grain mush.  Like most of Blood-type A’s, I am also sensitive to wheat and have trouble digesting gluten (grain based proteins).  When eaten over time, wheat causes me to feel very fatigued, constipated and congested as well.  I have more energy and my elimination is better if I ingest wheat very sparingly.

I don’t want to be overly simplistic here, and don’t assume that this is a Formula.  We are all created differently.  However, if my mother had known some small things about me, my health would have taken a better turn.

I manage my own health now.  I do small things like prefer ‘smoke free’ environments, avoid cow’s milk and restrict my intake of cheese and frozen dairy treats, only have moderate amounts of yogurt and butter.  I eat very little wheat and limit other gluten grains.  I avoid oranges and kiwi like the plague.  I am very moderate with other fruits and eat them in season.

Just little things.

Keep Well_

Nelda

The Allergy-Addiction Cycle

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When someone says that they’re ‘in a mood’, they may be ‘in a food’.  Eating is the action where we literally take something outside of us and bring it into the most inner part of our beings.  At the food trough, we do not often stop to consider the impact of food choices on our thoughts and emotions. 

A child can turn into a real Jekyll and Hyde

If you experience serious food cravings, the chances are that you are also allergic to these same foods.  This allergy/addiction cycle can create dramatic mood swings.

A child can turn into a real ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ when they consume such things as sugar, chocolate, milk, pop or wheat.  If behavior is an issue, take the time to consider what they have been eating in the last 24 hours.  Look for a definite ‘high and crash’ pattern.

One adult told me that they were less aggressive and felt less frustrated when they reduced the amount of meat in their diet.  Another individual claimed that although they had been feeling tired and depressed, they could think more clearly and optimistically when all refined sugar and wheat were eliminated.

Take the time to visit Health food stores and ask questions. Investigate ‘allergy free’ and ‘Organic’ groceries and products.  Take the time to interview, read and study.

Sometimes, the smallest of changes can bring us closer to balance and health.

A Natural Approach to Colds and Flu

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Vaccines have certainly been a hot topic in the last 10 years or so.  Most recently, there is a really big push to vaccinate our nation in this cold and flu season. Keep in mind that fears ‘sells’.  Although it is great to be informed, what the media chooses as a spectacular issue should not necessarily be the total driving force in our own personal health choices.

There are people who for whatever reasons of their own, are very strongly opposed to vaccines.  Needless to say, I will say nothing about this subject, as this is a personal choice.  I encourage people to weigh their decisions carefully. I recommend a pro-active program this season, especially for those who are feeling more rundown or have other challenges.

Consider using a specific homeopathic ‘plex’ remedy that is used once every 2 weeks preventatively.  This alerts the body to be vigilant in regard to airborne viruses and bacteria.  This can be for adults and children alike. Many companies make plexes that are effective when working with cold, fever, flu and gripe. Most products that people choose tend to suppress the body’s functions.  Natural remedies used wisely, support the body’s efforts.

When we buy a new car, we get an owner’s manual in the glove box.  We then have some idea how to operate and maintain the equipment.  When we have a baby, guess what?  No owner’s manual!   

Take the time to become familiar with single remedies for home use.  The best home-care-on-hand manuals that I know are:

Everybody’s Guide to Homeopathic Medicines

By Stephen Cummings, M.D. & Dana Ullman, M.P.H.

Homeopathic Medicines at Home

By Maesimund B Panos M.D. & Jane Heimlich

Together they are a great cross reference.  I would not like to try and raise a child without these.  Overall my advice is research, research research!

   

Consider boosting the body’s immunity and energy at this time.  Royal Jelly is a good addition for those additional B Vitamins at times of stress as well as a good Ester C complex.  Energy tonics that support the adrenal glands are really helpful for those times when we feel run down or stretched in a dozen directions.  During the fall and winter, our bodies are stressed just trying to stay warm.  Again it is easier to prevent the common cold by supporting the body.

It is helpful to keep up on pro-biotics such as acidophilus.  This helps to keep pathogenic and toxic bacteria in check.  Flora markets an oral probiotics called ‘Udo’s Super 5, which is great to suck on.  This helps to balance bacteria in the throat, esophagus and stomach. 

Echinacea works very well to support the body’s fight factor.  The golden rule is to take it every hour or so until symptoms abate, and then back off gradually.  You have a 14 day window where Echinacea is effective. (period)  Pay attention.  If your symptoms get worse by using this herb, stop using it.

Oil of Oregano is a wonderful remedy to discourage bacterial growth.  I often open a slippery elm capsule and add a couple drops of oil.  I take this with food and it doesn’t tend to repeat or irritate my stomach. 

Fall is when the food quality tends to deteriorate.  I recommend Vegge Greens which is an alkaline ash whole food concentrate, as well as Phytoberry antioxidant to protect and support all the tissues and systems of the body.

For further research I recommend the articles:

• Bio-chemical Individuality 

• Increasing Immunity
  

Increasing Immunity

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This is the time of year when we are most aware that prevention is worth a pound of cure.  Vitamin A is important for cell membrane strength and integrity.  Vitamin C acts as a co-enzyme for the liver and feeds the glandular system.

 Essential Fatty Acids nourish the glands, especially the adrenals and thyroid.  Alkaline ash supplements such as Vegge Greens nourish almost every tissue and system of the body.  Phytoberry is a network antioxidant complex that protects every system on a cellular level.

Probiotics such as acidophilus and live culture kefir or yogurt, fill the space in the intestine, discouraging pathogens from growing at a fast rate.  Oil of oregano and Bee Propolis are antiseptics that discourage bacteria and other microbes.  Bija Teas from Flora are wonderful for supporting as well as hydrating the body.  Good herbs for helping to clean the blood and lymph are Dandelion, Red Clover and Cleavers.  Yarrow can be added to support the body when feverish. Water with dilute cranberry juice or fresh squeezed lemon juice can really help the body flush out toxins.

Familiarize yourself with homeopathic basics and First Aid for the home, and have basics on hand for when they are needed.  Explore the homeopathic ‘Plexes’, which are very effective for helping the body process through a progression of phases in the healing process. Drosera Plex Cough Syrup is very effective when the bronchials or lungs are stressed.

Have a ‘natural’ antibiotic throat spray in your purse.  Give yourself a shot into the back of your throat when everyone around you is coughing and sneezing.  Have Homeocan “Flu Buster” as part of your home resource. 

Often I have heard ‘let an illness run its course’.  What this means is, let the body fight and fight and fight and hope that it wins.  Sometimes the infection will not be burned out of the body but harbour deeper in the systems.  Being aggressively pro-active at the first sign of symptom is my best advice.  Reduce the frequency of remedies gradually as symptoms abate.  Why not win the battle first as last.

What Brings You Joy?

Often, illness is a sign that we are not giving ourselves the quality of relationship that we deserve. Take the time to refresh the mind and spirit.  Find what brings you joy and do more of it.

Bio-Chemical Individuality

A friend phoned me the other day. She was all 'fired up' because she had heard that the powers that be had made an executive decision about not treating children with ear infections until 72 hours after onset. She vented at some length about what it would be like to listen to a child scream for days and feel totally abandoned, helpless and resource-less. She suggested that it was time that I got on the ‘cyber- soapbox' to tell the world about the natural alternatives. She said "people are ready for some serious information about natural remedies".

I do empathize with parents who are feeling frustrated while manageing their children’s health. Parenting is by far, our most demanding and time consuming role. The responsibily we carry on our shoulders is daunting. The irony is that this is the one role in our lives that we have little or no training in.

I know that this is the information age, and we are bombarded with it. But, dear readers, it is a harsh fact that 'fear sells' and this negative spin distorts most of everything we hear. Our challenge is that without a solid and practical knowledge base, we cannot discern if the information we are hearing is trustworthy. Further, how can we know if the information has specific value for us or our family.

Wellness from a holistic perspective embraces a totally different paradigm. There are a few challenges about giving specific instructions to a general audience. A Holistic Health viewpoint is not based upon the treatment, but upon the person. We are all different and every person’s overall state of being is subjectivly different. To encompass this 'whole person' view, we need to consider bio-chemical individuality.

What is Bio-chemical individuality? Natural therapists call this ‘terrain’. What this means is that we have different ancestors, with different genetic strengths and weaknesses. We have had unique birth and formative year experiences. Our nutrition and food styles are different. Our resistance to bacteria and viruses are uniquely our own. The emotional stressors we experienced and our resilience to these emotional stressors are different.

Trauma can be stored in our tissues. Many people have scars that interrupt the body’s electrical flow. It is interesting to note that no child under the age of two years old is allowed to be vaccinated in Japan. Many people have had vital organs and glands removed or tampered with.

Dental surgery has profoundly affected many people, bio-chemically and physically. Decades ago, the country of Sweden implemented a mercury-free policy for its children. Some individuals are more sensitive to mercury, heavy metals, radiation, or agricultural chemicals. Many people are using medications on an ongoing basis. It is unusual to find anyone over the age of 30 who is not on some form of prescription or over the counter drug.

When past health issues have been handled in a suppressive manner, some individuals may find that they do not respond as well to natural products as they had hoped. People’s expectations and attitudes are unique. We have different pain thresholds. Some people try natural products, expecting a drug type of response. Most people know more about the inner workings of their car, than their own bodies.

Part of my role as a Holistic Health Educator, is to help people to understand the basic functions of their bodies from a relational and holistic perspective. The more that we can understand about how our body functions, the more we can effectively support our body’s efforts. Education is an essential foundation. From there, specific resources will naturally fit into place.

The selection of natural remedies out in the world is vast, but what I have noticed over the last two decades is that families share an affinity. Some children will be more like Mom. Another child will be more like Dad, or perhaps a child will show a strong similarity to a grandparent. The acorn and the tree will respond well to similar remedies. For most families, their home-aid kits will consist of a small handful of homeopathic single remedies, a homeopathic plex or two, as well as few tried and true herbal products.

It may require a learning curve to become knowledgeable and may take time to become comfortable in your role as the health care provider for your family. It may stretch your mind and your faith a little. I can assure you from experience that there is a peace of mind beyond price that comes from understanding the basics that have proven their worth over time. Knowledge and wisdom are by far the most valuable resources.

Wellness & Vitamin C

I have wonderful friends. I am introverted by nature and they have really been putting the push on me to come out of hiding and put myself out in the world. My blog has been one of the things I have initiated in response to this encouragement. One friend suggested that I start putting out really ‘juicy’ information about remedies, and what to do about what.

My challenge as a holistic health provider, is that I cannot say that anything works to cure anything. For example, if I am asked what is Vitamin C is for, I can never answer that Vitamin C cures scurvy. Now you may believe that is true, and untold thousands of ‘Limey’ sailors sure believed it was true. From a holistic viewpoint, it isn't even the right question.

The point is, that we are bio-chemical beings. Our bodies begin to lose integrity, resilience and strength when our nutrition becomes scanty. When this lack of nutrition continues for long periods of time and in the extreme, our bodies can not function properly or efficiently. In the past, when sailors lacked fresh food in their diets, they noticed themselves slowly falling apart.

All human beings have what is termed ‘hypoascorbanemia’, which is to say that we are always potentially deficient in ascorbic acid, which is Vitamin C. It is a curious thing that all other mammal’s livers seem to create their own Vitamin C. We stand alone as being the only mammal that requires a dietary source of this nutrient on a constant basis. If you have cold hands and feet, poor circulation, bruise easily, or your gums frequently bleed, your body may benefit from Vitamin C and its Bioflavonoid companions (Vitamin C complex)

Vitamin C is ascorbic acid. Our bodies need to buffer the ascorbic acid to a base pH before it can be utilized effectively. This requirement may draw minerals from our tissues to achieve this. This is why I recommend a buffered or mineral ascorbate source, especially when you increase your Vitamin C intake beyond the usual recommended daily allowance.

In the summer and fall season we are blessed with fresh foods that contain Vitamin C. Vitamin C is very sensitive, and processing and cooking tends to deteriorate it. In the winter, we need to make more of an effort to include Vitamin C rich foods into our diets on a daily basis. This is when most people choose to supplement Vitamin C. This nutrient is most often depleted in our bodies by stress, and lifestyle excesses such as the over-use of tobacco, alcohol and coffee.

Mikhael Adams N.D. has formulated a brilliant buffered Vitamin C Complex using botanical sources of Vitamin C and bioflavonoids. He says that “While the maintenance of good health, the reduced incidence of colds and the profound antioxidant properties of Vitamin C are its most frequently touted benefits; the anti-aging properties are emerging as a very significant additional silver lining.”

To speak of 'wellness' means rather than focusing on disease and its treatment, we look at the restorative and nourishing aspects of food, and lifestyle. Nutrition is for life. I encourage you to make optimal nutrition part of your daily self-care as we move into the cold season.