The Goji Berry, also known as the Wolfberry is said to be one of the most nutrient dense food available and is also said to have many curative and medicinal properties.
It is said that Chinese medicine has long relied on the Goji berry to cure a variety of ailments such as kidney, liver or eye diseases.
It is rich in Vitamin C and beta-carotene, also making it very useful for general health and wellbeing.
Available in a variety of forms such as dried berries, berry juice, or in the form of herbal tea, this is a popular diet supplement or even used as an ingredient in some dishes.
Goji Berry claims to have many benefits: It is said to have all kinds of benefits from helping you see better to protecting you from cancer, and even helping to recover from cancer.
It is also said to increase stamina and vitality while enhancing sexual prowess and reducing problems related to erectile dysfuntion. There also are claims that the toxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation can be ameliorated by the goji berry.
To this end, the goji berry in its various different forms has become very popular, and is to be found in a variety of products that are usually marketed through multilayered marketing strategies.
Are those claims accurate? When one looks around the internet to find out more about the goji berry, chances are you will be led to one or more of the sites that sell the various formulation of the berry.
Typically, you will also see rather tall sounding claims made: “I added 20 years to my life with the goji berry” “it is a gift of life” and so on. It is routinely referred to as a ‘super food’.
The various goji berry products, the juice in particular, are also fairly expensive. So do benefits actually justify the many rather embellished claims made about this berry?
Studies conducted have not managed to substantiate any of the really tall claims made by the marketers. Goji extracts may prevent the growth of cancer cells, reduce blood glucose, and lower cholesterol levels, in controlled experiments, however it does not follow that Goji juice will have the same beneficial effect.
Goji berries are healthy to eat, no doubt, and their antioxidant and other nutritional factors are certainly beneficial, but to say that is this super food may be a bit of a stretch.
The goji berry is a good source of nutrition, insofar as a lot of berries are packed with nutrients, but to say that it is miracle food; well one would do well to be skeptical.
Se afișează postările cu eticheta chinese. Afișați toate postările
Se afișează postările cu eticheta chinese. Afișați toate postările
vineri, 26 februarie 2010
sâmbătă, 20 februarie 2010
Chrysanthemum Extract For Cancer?
Chinese researchers have stumbled upon a new, natural antidote to cancer. We have known for a while the healing properties of chrysanthemum and now it may just be good for yet another.
This commonly grown flower has shown “antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunodulatory, and neuroprotective effects,” according to the Chinese research which found some success in treating certain types of cancer using this extract along with other traditional Chinese medicines.
Chrysanthemum extract works against malignant cells and stops the spread of those cancerous cells in the body. It is able to do this without harming healthy tissue in the body and therefore holds out great promise for the future.
vineri, 5 februarie 2010
The Benefits Of Using Asian/Chinese Ginseng
Alternative medicines can be found throughout the globe, originating from ancient remedies and rituals.
Very often China is the source of a lot of herbs widely used instead of manufactured drugs.
Asian ginseng, also known as Chinese ginseng attracts numerous claims over the benefits it can provide.
Much like a multi-vitamin, it is said to improve a person’s general well being especially those recovering from a long term illness.
The chemical part of the ginseng root is called ginsenosides and is the reason why it has strong healing properties. Manufacturers dry the plant’s root and it is subsequently made into tablets and capsules for internal use. Creams and various external preparations are also produced for sale.
As you can imagine anything which has so many beneficial claims made about it attracts a lot of research programs. Unfortunately, most of these have been relatively small and therefore science has not got much to say about ginseng as yet.
Scientists are prepared to agree that there are potential health benefits but it is left to the purveyors of alternative medicine to espouse its advantages.
Like most drugs, some side effects can be experienced and sufferers of diabetes should avoid its use because of the dangers of lowering blood sugar levels. Claims include the treatment of erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C and problems in menopause.
Hopefully further research in the future will result in a better understanding of this herb and its benefits will come into more mainstream use. Until then it is readily available from all good health stores.
Very often China is the source of a lot of herbs widely used instead of manufactured drugs.
Asian ginseng, also known as Chinese ginseng attracts numerous claims over the benefits it can provide.
Much like a multi-vitamin, it is said to improve a person’s general well being especially those recovering from a long term illness.
The chemical part of the ginseng root is called ginsenosides and is the reason why it has strong healing properties. Manufacturers dry the plant’s root and it is subsequently made into tablets and capsules for internal use. Creams and various external preparations are also produced for sale.
As you can imagine anything which has so many beneficial claims made about it attracts a lot of research programs. Unfortunately, most of these have been relatively small and therefore science has not got much to say about ginseng as yet.
Scientists are prepared to agree that there are potential health benefits but it is left to the purveyors of alternative medicine to espouse its advantages.
Like most drugs, some side effects can be experienced and sufferers of diabetes should avoid its use because of the dangers of lowering blood sugar levels. Claims include the treatment of erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C and problems in menopause.
Hopefully further research in the future will result in a better understanding of this herb and its benefits will come into more mainstream use. Until then it is readily available from all good health stores.
Tui Na – A Massage Therapy That Uses Traditional Chinese Medicine
Tui na is a massage therapy that is classed within the system of traditional Chinese medicine as an external method.
It is particularly appropriate for elderly persons and infants.
It has been used in China for more than 2,000 years. Notably, tui na has fewer side effects than many drug- and chemical-based treatments.
In the traditional Chinese medicine philosophy, the belief is that pain and disease are the result of an imbalance in the flow and/or amount of Qi, and that tui na will bring everything back into balance.
The tui na practitioner will brush, knead, roll, press and/or rub the areas between each of the joints, also known as the eight gates, to open the defensive chi of the patient and get the energy moving.
In addition, tui na has at its disposal the techniques of traction and massage, along with the stimulation of acupressure points. Interestingly, this can be used to treat both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, and non-musculoskeletal conditions.
There are many East Asian martial traditions that use a form of tui na to either manage or alleviate injury and pain due to training or training related injuries. That is understandable, given that an unmanaged injury in a martial career could lead to life and death consequences.
If you are interested in experiencing Tui na, you should look for a skilled practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine.
It is particularly appropriate for elderly persons and infants.
It has been used in China for more than 2,000 years. Notably, tui na has fewer side effects than many drug- and chemical-based treatments.
In the traditional Chinese medicine philosophy, the belief is that pain and disease are the result of an imbalance in the flow and/or amount of Qi, and that tui na will bring everything back into balance.
The tui na practitioner will brush, knead, roll, press and/or rub the areas between each of the joints, also known as the eight gates, to open the defensive chi of the patient and get the energy moving.
In addition, tui na has at its disposal the techniques of traction and massage, along with the stimulation of acupressure points. Interestingly, this can be used to treat both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, and non-musculoskeletal conditions.
There are many East Asian martial traditions that use a form of tui na to either manage or alleviate injury and pain due to training or training related injuries. That is understandable, given that an unmanaged injury in a martial career could lead to life and death consequences.
If you are interested in experiencing Tui na, you should look for a skilled practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine.
Moxibustion In Chinese Traditional Medicine
Moxibustion is the Traditional Chinese Medicine practice of burning herbs on or near specific points of the body to produce a particular effect.
In the spirit of full disclosure, there is no basis in western medicine for the functionality of moxibustion.
There are, however, about 3000 years of practice spread across the whole of Asia, not just China, to show that process is effective.
In fact, the western word for moxibustion is more associated with the Japanese than Chinese language. And the practice is common in the medical systems of Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet, and Mongolia as well as China.
The herb most often used during moxibustion is mugwort. It is generally placed either directly on the patient’s skin, on top of a piece of ginger placed directly on the patient’s skin, or the herb is held above the skin on an acupuncture needle.
The points or meridians where the herbs are burnt are very specific. As with most facets of these traditional systems, this should only be done by an experienced practitioner.
The basic theory is that the moxa (as the mugwort is called) warms these points and promotes circulation of both blood and qi, which is the subtle energy that is a pillar of these types of traditional medicine practices.
Historians believe that moxibustion predates acupuncture, and that the use of needles supplemented moxa in or around the second century B.C.
Moxibustion is considered useful therapy for many diseases and conditions such as migraines, arthritis, tendonitis, and is also useful for turning a breech baby.
Role Of Qi In Traditional Chinese Medicine
Qi not only forms the basis for the traditional medical systems of the East, but it has also influenced many parts of Eastern thought from martial arts to interior design.
The concept is so widespread that it has developed different terms across different languages. In Japan it is called ki.
In Vietnam, it is called khi, and in Korea it is known as Qi.
But whatever term you use for the concept, you are referring to the energetic principle that is part of all living things.
In the medical systems, it is held that the human body has natural patterns of Qi that move in certain ways and in certain patterns.
Different symptoms of each illness are said to be the result of disrupted or blocked movement of Qi across the body, or from a deficiency or imbalance of the Qi in the body.
Traditional medicine seeks to restore these imbalances and deficiencies by various means, such as acupuncture, herbal preparations, and other less widely known methodologies like traditional massage and traditional exercise. [Traditional Chinese Medicine]
Western medicine has been, as of yet, been unable to quantify Qi, linking its effects to everything from a placebo effect to a release of endorphins.
What western physicians have grudgingly admitted is that there is a noticeable, quantifiable effect that when added up falls under the Eastern term of Qi.
The concept is so widespread that it has developed different terms across different languages. In Japan it is called ki.
In Vietnam, it is called khi, and in Korea it is known as Qi.
But whatever term you use for the concept, you are referring to the energetic principle that is part of all living things.
In the medical systems, it is held that the human body has natural patterns of Qi that move in certain ways and in certain patterns.
Different symptoms of each illness are said to be the result of disrupted or blocked movement of Qi across the body, or from a deficiency or imbalance of the Qi in the body.
Traditional medicine seeks to restore these imbalances and deficiencies by various means, such as acupuncture, herbal preparations, and other less widely known methodologies like traditional massage and traditional exercise. [Traditional Chinese Medicine]
Western medicine has been, as of yet, been unable to quantify Qi, linking its effects to everything from a placebo effect to a release of endorphins.
What western physicians have grudgingly admitted is that there is a noticeable, quantifiable effect that when added up falls under the Eastern term of Qi.
What You Need To Know About Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is part of the alternative systems of medicine in the West, but is the standard of medicine in about half the world.
TCM has within it practices like the well known (acupuncture and herbal medicine) and the less known like dietary therapy, tui na massage, qigong, and moxibustion (the burning of herbs on specific body points).
It is good to remember that it is the mainstream medical care throughout the East.
TCM theory began over a thousand years ago. It was developed through centuries of meticulous observation of nature, the cosmos, and the way the human body interacts with all of these.
A basic difference between TCM and western medicine is that TCM works on a “black box” principle of investigation.
For example if we do “X” to the body, we will see effect “Y” and we never try, nor even care to see what is in the black box of the body to lead to this result.
This is in direct opposition to the Western investigation methodology of “cracking the box,” e.g. figuring out the exact cause.
One could say that TCM is more concerned with getting things fixed than figuring out exactly why they broke, but that is a bit of an oversimplification.
Keep in mind that TCM is a very complex and multi layered system of medicine and is best accessed through an experienced practitioner well known throughout the community.
Great results can be had using TCM, especially in the case of ongoing chronic conditions, such as diabetes or lupus, for which Western medicine has few helpful answers.
Chinese Astrology – Energy And Balance For Body Healing
TCM or otherwise know as Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a practice of balance in the body. TCM has been a tradition in China for over two thousand years now. It has now rapidly spread across the world.
TCM is maintained by being in control of your body balance and beyond. The life force that is thought to animate this body is referred to as chi or qi.
This flows through channels and then is divided into Ying and Yang.
We all have a different sign in Chinese Astrology. Each sign is a disposition of what certain illnesses we have the possibility of acquiring. When having these readings done, a birth chart will represent the spiritual, mental and physical bodies. There are houses on the chart that will act as problem planets, and will show what type of illness will be manifested in the body.
If there is a blockage or imbalance in the body of the Ying and Yang, it is considered to be the cause of diseases.
Chinese doctors then observe the pulse, tongue and skin. They also feel it to be necessary to have a conversation with the patient before they actually make their diagnosis. They believe that not one single part of the body can be understood except in it’s relation to the whole.
If there are symptoms, they are not tracked back to a cause, but looked at as a bigger part of the situation. Every patient that is seen by a doctor is given their own individual prescription based on their specific needs for their body. This could include acupuncture or certain exercises.
It has been shown that TCM can treat the effects of disorders such as migraines and osteoarthritis. TCM can teach you that your health is determined by all different factors. It is also important to pay attention to the things that you are doing on a daily basis, especially when it comes to nutrition, weight loss, vitamins and herbal medicines.
Everybody wants to live a long and healthy life. Our physical body expresses our mind and our spirit. When we are able to make better choices for ourselves in our mind, it will result in a healthier body.
When we have a light and content spirit, our mind is able to make better choices. Through the use of good diet and other methods like mantra and aromatherapy, we can heal ourselves before we become ill.
miercuri, 14 octombrie 2009
Learning How Emotions Are Related To Symptoms In Traditional Chinese Medicine
Learning how emotions relate to symptoms is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine and can provide effective results. Emotions and the body are integrated and emotions such as sadness, worry or fear correlate to a certain area of the body. There are seven emotions: sadness, worry,anger,fear,fright,shock and joy. Even though some of these emotions may be seen as negative, in Chinese medicine they are seen as neither ‘good’ nor ‘bad’ just human nature. When we are well emotions flow freely, when we are stressed or ill, the emotions become ’stuck’. Chinese medicine looks to assess the ’stuck’ emotions and ‘free’ them in order to re-balance harmony. The relative organ that is affected by the emotion can also determine what type of treatment will be offered.
Sadness or even grief, affects the lungs leading to Lung Qi deficiency, leading to fatigue, depression and sometimes weakened immune system.
Worry or excessive over thinking can be caused by mental stresses, common in students and those in intellectual professions. These stresses knot the Qi and affect the spleen and lungs bringing on aching shoulders and breathlessness. Worry may also turn into anxiety or panic attacks.
Anger can include rage, irritability and frustration. In anger the tongue becomes dark red in colour.
Fear affects the kidneys and makes the Qi descend, prolonged fear drains the kidneys. In children it can result in bed wetting and in adults it can turn to anxiety and heart troubles.
Fright or shock leads to breathlessness, heart palpitations and puts undue strain on the kidneys.
Joy, although a positive, joy can affect the heart by slowing down the Qi, in small doses joy is beneficial but over excitment can cause heart dis-harmonies.
Causes Of Disease:
Dietary problems such as over-eating can affect the spleen. Over-eating can be caused by worry or excessive mental work and cause fatigue, digestion problems and diarrhea. Symptoms include stiffness, pale skin and lips, possible bruising and bleeding problems. Poor diet, not eating enough or not eating the correct foods due to modern day diets can be detrimental on the flow of Qi and on the spleen. Not only is it what we eat but when such as late at night,eating in a hurry and eating whilst working can affect the stomach and flow of Qi.
Lung problems can be caused by sadness and grief, affecting the lungs and breathing. Symptoms include frequent colds and flu, asthma, allergies and dry skin conditions. In order to improve the lungs, the immune system needs to be boosted.
Heart problems may occur as a result of depression and loss of vitality. Symptoms include heart palpitations, insomnia, poor long-term memory and other psychological issues.
Treatment of Disease
Most can be treated by a combination of acupuncture and herbal remedies. Acupuncture is commonly effective for heart and kidney problems whereas extras such as exercise will be effective for depression and anxiety problems. Chinese medicine practitioners recognize that an individual’s condition is unique and may need different treatments for different symptoms. An in-depth session with a practitioner will work out a treatment program that can re-balance the emotions and the flow of Qi.
Sadness or even grief, affects the lungs leading to Lung Qi deficiency, leading to fatigue, depression and sometimes weakened immune system.
Worry or excessive over thinking can be caused by mental stresses, common in students and those in intellectual professions. These stresses knot the Qi and affect the spleen and lungs bringing on aching shoulders and breathlessness. Worry may also turn into anxiety or panic attacks.
Anger can include rage, irritability and frustration. In anger the tongue becomes dark red in colour.
Fear affects the kidneys and makes the Qi descend, prolonged fear drains the kidneys. In children it can result in bed wetting and in adults it can turn to anxiety and heart troubles.
Fright or shock leads to breathlessness, heart palpitations and puts undue strain on the kidneys.
Joy, although a positive, joy can affect the heart by slowing down the Qi, in small doses joy is beneficial but over excitment can cause heart dis-harmonies.
Causes Of Disease:
Dietary problems such as over-eating can affect the spleen. Over-eating can be caused by worry or excessive mental work and cause fatigue, digestion problems and diarrhea. Symptoms include stiffness, pale skin and lips, possible bruising and bleeding problems. Poor diet, not eating enough or not eating the correct foods due to modern day diets can be detrimental on the flow of Qi and on the spleen. Not only is it what we eat but when such as late at night,eating in a hurry and eating whilst working can affect the stomach and flow of Qi.
Lung problems can be caused by sadness and grief, affecting the lungs and breathing. Symptoms include frequent colds and flu, asthma, allergies and dry skin conditions. In order to improve the lungs, the immune system needs to be boosted.
Heart problems may occur as a result of depression and loss of vitality. Symptoms include heart palpitations, insomnia, poor long-term memory and other psychological issues.
Treatment of Disease
Most can be treated by a combination of acupuncture and herbal remedies. Acupuncture is commonly effective for heart and kidney problems whereas extras such as exercise will be effective for depression and anxiety problems. Chinese medicine practitioners recognize that an individual’s condition is unique and may need different treatments for different symptoms. An in-depth session with a practitioner will work out a treatment program that can re-balance the emotions and the flow of Qi.
Top 3 Recipes With Natural Herbs For Weight Loss
Do you ever wonder if Chinese natural herbs really work? What are Chinese natural herbs anyway? While most of them originate from China, some may not. The name entails that Chinese herbalists discovered their medicinal properties centuries ago.
Can you lose weight with such herbs? Sure, but as with any other diet or weight loss plan, you need to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. Here are three recipes that contain Chinese herbs and were designed specifically for weight loss.
So go ahead, take a walk to your local China Town to get these natural herbs and get started on the new you with a smaller waistline. You may need these weight conversions when ordering herbs in an Asian store: 1 qian equals 5 grams and 1 liang equals 50 grams.
Chinese Weight Loss And Energy Tea
1L (4 cups) Water
10 g (0.35 oz) Chrysanthemum flowers
15 g (0.53 oz) Hawthorn
15 g (0.53 oz) Puli Tea
To Taste Honey
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the chrysanthemum flowers and hawthorn and let simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the puli tea and stir.
4. Turn off the heat.
5. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool off for a few minutes.
6. Add honey to taste.
Chinese Herbs For Improved Fitness
1L (4 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
50 g (1.76 oz) Abalone Seeds
25 g (0.88 oz) Germinated Barley
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
5 g (0.18 oz) Polygonum Multiflorum
5 g (0.18 oz) Raphanus Semen
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
Chinese Natural Herbs For Weight Loss
1.5 L (6 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
10 g (0.35 oz) Liquorice
25 g (0.88 oz) Black Plum
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
10 g (0.35 oz) Roselle
To Taste Honey
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
4. Add honey to taste.
Other Chinese Natural Herbs
Feel free to consult with a traditional oriental herbalist during your visit to China Town. He can recommend particular herbal combinations that can help with many diseases or disorders. You should avoid combining herbs without the supervision of a qualified herbalist. Although these herbs are natural, they affect your system and could create an imbalance in your body if used incorrectly.
Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng are probably some of the better-known Chinese herbs in the Western world. Ginkgo seeds are pounded into pieces and taken to relieve asthma symptoms. Ginseng root is ground and taken for the purposes of improving vitality, treating impotence and relaxing the mind while improving focus and energy. Go ahead and explore what the world of Chinese natural herbs has to offer.
Can you lose weight with such herbs? Sure, but as with any other diet or weight loss plan, you need to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. Here are three recipes that contain Chinese herbs and were designed specifically for weight loss.
So go ahead, take a walk to your local China Town to get these natural herbs and get started on the new you with a smaller waistline. You may need these weight conversions when ordering herbs in an Asian store: 1 qian equals 5 grams and 1 liang equals 50 grams.
Chinese Weight Loss And Energy Tea
1L (4 cups) Water
10 g (0.35 oz) Chrysanthemum flowers
15 g (0.53 oz) Hawthorn
15 g (0.53 oz) Puli Tea
To Taste Honey
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the chrysanthemum flowers and hawthorn and let simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the puli tea and stir.
4. Turn off the heat.
5. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool off for a few minutes.
6. Add honey to taste.
Chinese Herbs For Improved Fitness
1L (4 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
50 g (1.76 oz) Abalone Seeds
25 g (0.88 oz) Germinated Barley
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
5 g (0.18 oz) Polygonum Multiflorum
5 g (0.18 oz) Raphanus Semen
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
Chinese Natural Herbs For Weight Loss
1.5 L (6 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
10 g (0.35 oz) Liquorice
25 g (0.88 oz) Black Plum
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
10 g (0.35 oz) Roselle
To Taste Honey
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
4. Add honey to taste.
Other Chinese Natural Herbs
Feel free to consult with a traditional oriental herbalist during your visit to China Town. He can recommend particular herbal combinations that can help with many diseases or disorders. You should avoid combining herbs without the supervision of a qualified herbalist. Although these herbs are natural, they affect your system and could create an imbalance in your body if used incorrectly.
Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng are probably some of the better-known Chinese herbs in the Western world. Ginkgo seeds are pounded into pieces and taken to relieve asthma symptoms. Ginseng root is ground and taken for the purposes of improving vitality, treating impotence and relaxing the mind while improving focus and energy. Go ahead and explore what the world of Chinese natural herbs has to offer.
Treating Acne With Chinese Medicine
Millions of people all over the world have seen and felt the effects of acne at one time or other. As if the teenage years weren’t awkward enough, this conditions usually shows itself in the early stages of puberty. The condition affects the sebaceous glands which are responsible for oiling hair follicles. As the oil is produced, dead skin cells are transported to the surface of the skin via the pores which are attached to the hair follicles. Whenever clogging occurs in these follicles, it leads to the pimples associated with acne.
Acne is more than a skin condition, it is a disease, and should be treated as such. Social awkwardness aside, acne can cause scarring that lasts long after the pimples themselves have disappeared, often for a lifetime. It should be noted also that acne doesn’t just occur on the face, but can also affect the chest, shoulders, neck and back. The disease poses no health risks, but the misery it causes is certainly understandable. This is even worst when outbreaks are severe, or lasts well beyond the teen years.
Treating acne has become big business, with teens being the main target of advertisers. In most cases, inflammatory acne is treated with either over the counter or prescription medication. Despite the numerous products on the market, it is not clear just how much the manufacturers of acne treatments understand about the disease. Given that skin types are different, what works for one individual may not work for others.
Keep in mind that any medication, whether prescription or over the counter can have side effects. Some acne creams and soaps have been known to cause excessive dryness and skin irritation.
Chinese Medicine
Some people may be wary of Chinese medicine, and consider it a new age fad. However, Chinese medicine has been practiced for over two thousand years. Unlike the Western medical philosophy, Chinese medicine depends on the study of nature and the body as well as cosmic forces. It has spawned a number of theories which form the basis of all treatments, namely Yin-yang, the Channel system, the six confirmations, the Zang Fu organ hypothesis and the Five Phases among others.
While it is often a last resort in Western cultures, it is still the first source of care in many parts of Asia. The main methods of treatment involve acupuncture, food therapy, massage, physical exercise, breathing exercises, meditation and herbal medicine.
Chinese Acne Treatments
Part of the philosophy of Chinese medicine relates to what causes disease. In the case of acne, it is seen as the force of heat acting on the lungs which in turn affects the skin. It is referred to as ‘fei feng fen ci’ which means ‘lesion of the lung wind.’ The idea is that the lungs are directly linked to the skin, and therefore they are both capable of affecting each other negatively. Factors such as stress, a poor diet, other health conditions, or the increase of Yang energy can lay a role in the increase in heat.
Acupuncture
This is a practice of inserting thin needles into the skin for the purpose of relieving pain, or for therapeutic reasons. The aim is to tap into acupuncture points in the body through which energy, the qi, runs. When treating acne with acupuncture, an attempt is made to bring the Yin and Yang back into harmony and to rid the lungs of heat.
As a form of acne treatment, acupuncture has had varying degrees of success. In fact, the best results are achieved when the sufferer also makes lifestyle changes including changing their diet. This is a notable aspect of the Chinese medicinal philosophy. This form of treatment may appeal to patients wary of ingesting medication or applying topical creams that could have side effects.
The Use of Herbs
Many acne patients swear by herbal treatments for the disease. It is important to note that anyone considering this course of treatment should seek the services of a skilled practitioner. Herbs are usually combined to make a formula instead of being given individually. Some of the herbs used in treating acne are seagrass, sileris root, bupleurum, Chinese Wolfberry root bark, pine pollen and honeysuckle flower.
Preparation usually involves boiling the ingredients in an earthenware pot, then straining the contents and drinking the tea while it is still warm. The process usually has to be repeated for a number of days or weeks.
Chinese herbs are said to be free from side effects, however, caution should be exercised when dealing with any unfamiliar treatment. If any digestive complaints or irritations are noticed treatment shouldn’t be continued. Most reports indicate that there are few if any side effects associated with Chinese medicine used in the treatment of acne.
Kidney Yang Deficiency Symptoms
Traditional Chinese medicine notices the correlation between the body’s systems in relation to an individual’s overall health. The symptoms of a kidney yang deficiency shed light on how one organ influences other systems in the body. Consider some of the telltale signs that a deficiency may be the source of health problems.
Headaches
Headaches are manifestations of health problems somewhere in the body. The problem does not always relate to the specific place in which the pain actually occurs. According to Headaches Due to a Deficiency of Kidney Yang a headache may indicate that there is a kidney yang deficiency. This is especially important to consider if the pain is in the back of the head.
Temperature
The kidney yang is responsible for controlling metabolic heat. The body’s temperature may be affected with a blocked yang in the kidneys. You may notice cold feet and hands, even in warmer temperatures. The body is unable to regulate its metabolic temperature properly when there is an imbalance in this system. Sweating for no apparent reason may be linked to a yang kidney deficiency as well.
Incontinence
Incontinence is an embarrassing problem that can occur when there is a kidney imbalance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are gateways that regulate emissions from the bowels and urethra. Emissions may include urine, sperm, or fecal matter. Loss of libido may be associated with a deficiency.
Bone Problems
It may be surprising to some that a correlation between the bones and the kidneys exist. Problems that may arise from a kidney imbalance include weak knees, back pain, and osteoporosis.
Other Symptoms
• Hair loss
• Premature graying
• Dizziness
• Impotence
• Premature ejaculation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
The tongue is a particularly important part of the body in relation to the kidney yang. The tongue may appear very moist and it may mimic the shape of the teeth after resting against them. It may also appear very light in color and swelling may occur.
Treatment
Treatment for the imbalance begins with following the Diet Guidelines for Kidney Yang Deficiency to help build the body’s strength. It isn’t necessary to restrict your diet to the specific foods outlined, but it is helpful to make these foods the basis of your eating plan.
It is necessary to avoid certain types of foods when you are treating the condition. Foods that can be troublesome contain dairy and some include raw vegetables. Normally, a salad is a healthy choice but not when you have a yang deficiency in the kidneys.
Supplements
Herbal supplements may improve the conditions as well. Some herbal ingredients commonly used in the treatment of kidney yang deficiency include but are not restricted to:
• Rehmannia
• Deer Antler
• Morinda Roo
• Vine Morinda
• Cinnamon bark
• Seaweed
• Fennel Seed
• Marshmallow root
It is always a good idea to discuss the condition with a health professional before adopting any supplements, including natural herbs.
Headaches
Headaches are manifestations of health problems somewhere in the body. The problem does not always relate to the specific place in which the pain actually occurs. According to Headaches Due to a Deficiency of Kidney Yang a headache may indicate that there is a kidney yang deficiency. This is especially important to consider if the pain is in the back of the head.
Temperature
The kidney yang is responsible for controlling metabolic heat. The body’s temperature may be affected with a blocked yang in the kidneys. You may notice cold feet and hands, even in warmer temperatures. The body is unable to regulate its metabolic temperature properly when there is an imbalance in this system. Sweating for no apparent reason may be linked to a yang kidney deficiency as well.
Incontinence
Incontinence is an embarrassing problem that can occur when there is a kidney imbalance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are gateways that regulate emissions from the bowels and urethra. Emissions may include urine, sperm, or fecal matter. Loss of libido may be associated with a deficiency.
Bone Problems
It may be surprising to some that a correlation between the bones and the kidneys exist. Problems that may arise from a kidney imbalance include weak knees, back pain, and osteoporosis.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms of kidney yang deficiency include but are not limited to:
• Hair loss
• Premature graying
• Dizziness
• Impotence
• Premature ejaculation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
The tongue is a particularly important part of the body in relation to the kidney yang. The tongue may appear very moist and it may mimic the shape of the teeth after resting against them. It may also appear very light in color and swelling may occur.
Treatment
Treatment for the imbalance begins with following the Diet Guidelines for Kidney Yang Deficiency to help build the body’s strength. It isn’t necessary to restrict your diet to the specific foods outlined, but it is helpful to make these foods the basis of your eating plan.
It is necessary to avoid certain types of foods when you are treating the condition. Foods that can be troublesome contain dairy and some include raw vegetables. Normally, a salad is a healthy choice but not when you have a yang deficiency in the kidneys.
Supplements
Herbal supplements may improve the conditions as well. Some herbal ingredients commonly used in the treatment of kidney yang deficiency include but are not restricted to:
• Rehmannia
• Deer Antler
• Morinda Roo
• Vine Morinda
• Cinnamon bark
• Seaweed
• Fennel Seed
• Marshmallow root
It is always a good idea to discuss the condition with a health professional before adopting any supplements, including natural herbs.
How to Practice Walking Meditation
Learning how to practice walking meditation requires practice but the meditative approach is well worth the effort. There are a couple strategies people use when engaging in mindful walking that make the exercise very effective. A meditative stroll helps the mind and the body to find balance.
When we think of meditation, we typically imagine a person postured in a sitting position with intense focus. No movement is apparent. In fact, movement may appear to be a disturbance of the meditative process. Walking meditation uses motion and contact with surroundings as a vehicle for trance.
Barefoot Meditative Walking
Those who want to learn how to practice walking meditation may be a little surprised to find that one approach involves going barefoot. This may be a source of stress for some people. Worrying about stepping on a sharp object or an insect can interrupt the meditative flow.
Apprehensions aside, many proponents of meditative walking recommend the barefoot approach. This is because the sensations in feet create a deep connection between the person walking and the earth. The sensory experience engages the mind and body in conjunction with the soil.
Preparing for Barefoot Walking
Preparing for barefoot walking meditation begins with setting a route to follow. Simply examining the paths that you would like to take on a regular basis is an excellent way to become familiar with the process. Practice is very important with this exercise.
Walking barefoot can make some people feel unbalanced but creating effective balance is part of the process. If walking outside is a little overwhelming, begin practicing indoors. It is important to be mindful in the practice and to visualize as you take each step.
Barefoot hiking requires some preparations and it may not be for everyone. However, a well-selected route can offer an excellent opportunity for you to feel one with nature in the meditative process.
Breathing
Breathing is an important aspect of walking and meditating. When walking outdoors, try to engage in the activity in early morning hours or late in the evening when the air is crisp and clean. Mindful walking with breathing exercises, like barefoot walking, does take practice.
The first step is to become aware of your breathing. Most breaths we take go unnoticed but each is essential in nurturing the body. Walking gives an opportunity to use each step to build an awareness of each breath you take as you move along. Some suggest that it is best to carry a slight smile on your face to improve mood as you walk, breathe and meditate.
Creating a rhythm that combines breaths, steps and words is a great approach in the meditative process. Select a favorite mantra that has deep meaning for you in the pattern. After getting the rhythm in sync, begin visualizing as you move.
Focus during walking meditation should be on breathing, visualization, mantra and movement. As these elements are practiced, awareness of your surroundings heightened. It is as if the walker is aware of nothing and everything all at once.
When we think of meditation, we typically imagine a person postured in a sitting position with intense focus. No movement is apparent. In fact, movement may appear to be a disturbance of the meditative process. Walking meditation uses motion and contact with surroundings as a vehicle for trance.
Barefoot Meditative Walking
Those who want to learn how to practice walking meditation may be a little surprised to find that one approach involves going barefoot. This may be a source of stress for some people. Worrying about stepping on a sharp object or an insect can interrupt the meditative flow.
Apprehensions aside, many proponents of meditative walking recommend the barefoot approach. This is because the sensations in feet create a deep connection between the person walking and the earth. The sensory experience engages the mind and body in conjunction with the soil.
Preparing for Barefoot Walking
Preparing for barefoot walking meditation begins with setting a route to follow. Simply examining the paths that you would like to take on a regular basis is an excellent way to become familiar with the process. Practice is very important with this exercise.
Walking barefoot can make some people feel unbalanced but creating effective balance is part of the process. If walking outside is a little overwhelming, begin practicing indoors. It is important to be mindful in the practice and to visualize as you take each step.
Barefoot hiking requires some preparations and it may not be for everyone. However, a well-selected route can offer an excellent opportunity for you to feel one with nature in the meditative process.
Breathing
Breathing is an important aspect of walking and meditating. When walking outdoors, try to engage in the activity in early morning hours or late in the evening when the air is crisp and clean. Mindful walking with breathing exercises, like barefoot walking, does take practice.
The first step is to become aware of your breathing. Most breaths we take go unnoticed but each is essential in nurturing the body. Walking gives an opportunity to use each step to build an awareness of each breath you take as you move along. Some suggest that it is best to carry a slight smile on your face to improve mood as you walk, breathe and meditate.
Creating a rhythm that combines breaths, steps and words is a great approach in the meditative process. Select a favorite mantra that has deep meaning for you in the pattern. After getting the rhythm in sync, begin visualizing as you move.
Focus during walking meditation should be on breathing, visualization, mantra and movement. As these elements are practiced, awareness of your surroundings heightened. It is as if the walker is aware of nothing and everything all at once.
marți, 13 octombrie 2009
Alternative Medicine
In Western culture, the term alternative medicine refers to any healing practice "that does not fall within the realm of conventional medicine", or "that which has not been shown consistently to be effective." Alternative medicine is often based on the belief that a particular health regimen has efficacious effects even while there isn't a body of evidence to support such a belief under the rigorous standards of evidence based medicine. In practice, alternative medicine encompasses therapies with a historical or cultural, rather than a scientific, basis. Commonly cited examples include naturopathy, chiropractic, herbalism, traditional Chinese medicine, Unani, Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, biofeedback, hypnosis, homeopathy, acupuncture, and diet-based therapies, in addition to a range of other practices.It is frequently grouped with complementary medicine, which generally refers to the same interventions when used in conjunction with mainstream techniques, under the umbrella term complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM. Some significant researchers in alternative medicine oppose this grouping, preferring to emphasize differences of approach, but nevertheless use the term CAM, which has become standard.
Alternative medicine practices are as diverse in their foundations as in their methodologies. Practices may incorporate or base themselves on traditional medicine, folk knowledge, spiritual beliefs, or newly conceived approaches to healing. Jurisdictions where alternative medical practices are sufficiently widespread may license and regulate them. The claims made by alternative medicine practitioners are generally not accepted by the medical community because evidence-based assessment of safety and efficacy is either not available or has not been performed for many of these practices. If scientific investigation establishes the safety and effectiveness of an alternative medical practice, whereupon it becomes mainstream medicine and is no longer "alternative", and will therefore become widely adopted by conventional practitioners.Because alternative techniques tend to lack evidence, some have advocated defining it as non-evidence based medicine, or not medicine at all. Some researchers state that the evidence-based approach to defining CAM is problematic because some CAM is tested, and research suggests that many mainstream medical techniques lack solid evidence.
A 1998 systematic review of studies assessing its prevalence in 13 countries concluded that about 31% of cancer patients use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. Alternative medicine varies from country to country. Dr. Edzard Ernst believes that in Austria and Germany CAM is mainly in the hands of physicians, while some estimates suggest that at least half of American alternative practitioners are physicians. In Germany, herbs are tightly regulated, with half prescribed by doctors and covered by health insurance based on their Commission E legislation.
Alternative medicine practices are as diverse in their foundations as in their methodologies. Practices may incorporate or base themselves on traditional medicine, folk knowledge, spiritual beliefs, or newly conceived approaches to healing. Jurisdictions where alternative medical practices are sufficiently widespread may license and regulate them. The claims made by alternative medicine practitioners are generally not accepted by the medical community because evidence-based assessment of safety and efficacy is either not available or has not been performed for many of these practices. If scientific investigation establishes the safety and effectiveness of an alternative medical practice, whereupon it becomes mainstream medicine and is no longer "alternative", and will therefore become widely adopted by conventional practitioners.Because alternative techniques tend to lack evidence, some have advocated defining it as non-evidence based medicine, or not medicine at all. Some researchers state that the evidence-based approach to defining CAM is problematic because some CAM is tested, and research suggests that many mainstream medical techniques lack solid evidence.
A 1998 systematic review of studies assessing its prevalence in 13 countries concluded that about 31% of cancer patients use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. Alternative medicine varies from country to country. Dr. Edzard Ernst believes that in Austria and Germany CAM is mainly in the hands of physicians, while some estimates suggest that at least half of American alternative practitioners are physicians. In Germany, herbs are tightly regulated, with half prescribed by doctors and covered by health insurance based on their Commission E legislation.
Switzerland Take An Holistic Approach
The First European country to protect complimentary medicine within Constitution is Switzerland, with over 67 percent of voters in favour of the new Constitutional article.
It is now likely that complementary medicines will now be re-instated into the basic health care system available to all citizens.
Herbalism, Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy were removed from the health care system in 2004 and put into private health insurance.
The Constitutional article States that Federal government will ensure that within their scope of jurisdiction complimentary medicine will be taken into consideration.
There is greater recognition of natural therapists in Switzerland and a lot of regular work has already been done. With this article being passed it is showing that Switzerland is now becoming less two sided with orthodox medicine and alternative therapies coming together.
Professorships in alternative medicine are now being created in Swiss Universities,so that one day students will be able to add complimentary therapies to their medical training and apply them to their practice. The Higher Education and Training Awards Council have begun validating complimentary therapy classes.
Swiss Parliament is to decide the measures to be taken in the following weeks. Complimentary therapy practitioners are to apply for inclusion into the basic health care system. The therapy must benefit and be appropriate for the patient, as well as being cost effective.
Pharmacist Jan De Vries hopes that Ireland may follow Switzerland’s’ lead with complementary medicine as with the Irish who are starting to get a better understanding of natural forms of medicine including traditional Chinese medicine and herbalism.
It is now likely that complementary medicines will now be re-instated into the basic health care system available to all citizens.
Herbalism, Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy were removed from the health care system in 2004 and put into private health insurance.
The Constitutional article States that Federal government will ensure that within their scope of jurisdiction complimentary medicine will be taken into consideration.
There is greater recognition of natural therapists in Switzerland and a lot of regular work has already been done. With this article being passed it is showing that Switzerland is now becoming less two sided with orthodox medicine and alternative therapies coming together.
Professorships in alternative medicine are now being created in Swiss Universities,so that one day students will be able to add complimentary therapies to their medical training and apply them to their practice. The Higher Education and Training Awards Council have begun validating complimentary therapy classes.
Swiss Parliament is to decide the measures to be taken in the following weeks. Complimentary therapy practitioners are to apply for inclusion into the basic health care system. The therapy must benefit and be appropriate for the patient, as well as being cost effective.
Pharmacist Jan De Vries hopes that Ireland may follow Switzerland’s’ lead with complementary medicine as with the Irish who are starting to get a better understanding of natural forms of medicine including traditional Chinese medicine and herbalism.
Partners
