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.
Se afișează postările cu eticheta traditional. Afișați toate postările
Se afișează postările cu eticheta traditional. Afișați toate postările
vineri, 5 februarie 2010
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.
Qigong – An Exercise For Balancing Energy
Qigong is a somewhat controversial practice that is purported to have vast health benefits.
It is, in short, a series of exercises that seek to balance the energy of the human body, first within itself and then ultimately with all of creation.
Intrinsic with this spiritual idea is the improvement of health and the curing of disease.
In many ways, it is the spiritual component that gives many western health experts the most trouble.
However, ground breaking research is currently going on that is attempting to lay aside the spiritual facet of this training and look at the results. And on that front, there are some tantalizing data.
Many Western medical experts and quite a few practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine view qigong as only a set of breathing and movement exercises, with the benefits tied to stress reduction and exercise.
In addition, any practice that encourages movement and is practiced consistently will result in an increased range of motion and improved joint flexibility and resilience. There are also mental benefits that come through focusing on the calm exercise.
The other, spiritualistic camp, have no issue with this view but add that the exercises facilitate the movement of the life force called Qi. It is more than mere movement, according to the adherents: it is more a matter of generating and balancing this force and then rectifying with the universe itself.
It is, in short, a series of exercises that seek to balance the energy of the human body, first within itself and then ultimately with all of creation.
Intrinsic with this spiritual idea is the improvement of health and the curing of disease.
In many ways, it is the spiritual component that gives many western health experts the most trouble.
However, ground breaking research is currently going on that is attempting to lay aside the spiritual facet of this training and look at the results. And on that front, there are some tantalizing data.
Many Western medical experts and quite a few practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine view qigong as only a set of breathing and movement exercises, with the benefits tied to stress reduction and exercise.
In addition, any practice that encourages movement and is practiced consistently will result in an increased range of motion and improved joint flexibility and resilience. There are also mental benefits that come through focusing on the calm exercise.
The other, spiritualistic camp, have no issue with this view but add that the exercises facilitate the movement of the life force called Qi. It is more than mere movement, according to the adherents: it is more a matter of generating and balancing this force and then rectifying with the universe itself.
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, 3 februarie 2010
6 Odd Ways To Kill A Cold
Winter comes with snow, wind and a green, gluey leakage. To prevent this leakage, the immune system must be strong and the will to kill it soon must be present.
There are proper ways for protection: consuming healthy foods and beverages is probably the most efficient way followed by having certain amount of vitamins and minerals each day.
However, there are some extraordinary ways to help people kill the cold, too.
The first way is not to blow the nose. It is said that the more blow causes more mucus to run into the sinuses.[sinus infection]
Recent researches show that this situation happens every time after blowing the nose. The best method to prevent is to stay unstuffed and blow only one nostril each time gently.
To prevent from blowing, a spoon of sea-salt can be added and mixed into a glass of water. Then sniffing some of this mix will let the mucus flow gently through the nostrils without any help of blowing.
One other odd solution is to use a sauna. A research showed that using sauna can relieve cold symptoms. “Baking the cold” method will show its results by also reducing recurrence. This method can be easily used with hot water at home.In a deep and wide pot, pour the hot water. Then close the face up to the pot with a towel on it and breathe the steam deeply. The water can be more aromatic and relaxed with a few lavender or mint. This process opens the sinuses and helps to “bake” the cold.
As a common thought, exercising can cause the cold to be killed. The more exercise means a more strong immune system which results with a low percentage of catching a cold.
Also studies show that flu has the capacity to spread faster and more effectively in dry air. Staying in places where humidity is higher or avoiding the dry-aired places, viruses cannot easily approach to the body.
Along with eating well and exercising regularly, sleeping is an important factor for helping the body to destroy a cold.
Researchers found out that sleeping less than 6 or 7 hours may tend to catch a cold three times more than sleeping 8 hours and more. So the right way is to hibernate and sleep it off.
The last odd way to kill cold is to put on more jackets and blankets to prevent cold air.
People who wear more are less likely to be cold, thus searching inside the wardrobe and putting out the warmest clothes becomes necessary. Sweating off a cold is sure to kill it. The example of the Indian shamans is ancient but quite effective.
In conclusion, these odd but beneficial ways help people fight the cold. In order to shine like a star throughout the winter, these ways are worth to try.
There are proper ways for protection: consuming healthy foods and beverages is probably the most efficient way followed by having certain amount of vitamins and minerals each day.
However, there are some extraordinary ways to help people kill the cold, too.
The first way is not to blow the nose. It is said that the more blow causes more mucus to run into the sinuses.[sinus infection]
Recent researches show that this situation happens every time after blowing the nose. The best method to prevent is to stay unstuffed and blow only one nostril each time gently.
To prevent from blowing, a spoon of sea-salt can be added and mixed into a glass of water. Then sniffing some of this mix will let the mucus flow gently through the nostrils without any help of blowing.
One other odd solution is to use a sauna. A research showed that using sauna can relieve cold symptoms. “Baking the cold” method will show its results by also reducing recurrence. This method can be easily used with hot water at home.In a deep and wide pot, pour the hot water. Then close the face up to the pot with a towel on it and breathe the steam deeply. The water can be more aromatic and relaxed with a few lavender or mint. This process opens the sinuses and helps to “bake” the cold.
As a common thought, exercising can cause the cold to be killed. The more exercise means a more strong immune system which results with a low percentage of catching a cold.
Also studies show that flu has the capacity to spread faster and more effectively in dry air. Staying in places where humidity is higher or avoiding the dry-aired places, viruses cannot easily approach to the body.
Along with eating well and exercising regularly, sleeping is an important factor for helping the body to destroy a cold.
Researchers found out that sleeping less than 6 or 7 hours may tend to catch a cold three times more than sleeping 8 hours and more. So the right way is to hibernate and sleep it off.
The last odd way to kill cold is to put on more jackets and blankets to prevent cold air.
People who wear more are less likely to be cold, thus searching inside the wardrobe and putting out the warmest clothes becomes necessary. Sweating off a cold is sure to kill it. The example of the Indian shamans is ancient but quite effective.
In conclusion, these odd but beneficial ways help people fight the cold. In order to shine like a star throughout the winter, these ways are worth to try.
sâmbătă, 23 ianuarie 2010
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips called "tender points." People with this syndrome may also experience sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, and other symptoms. Available data suggest that the number of persons aged 18 and older in the United States with fibromyalgia is approximately 3.7 million. It primarily occurs in women of childbearing age, but children, the elderly, and men may also be affected.
Although the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, researchers have several theories about what triggers the disease. Some scientists believe that the syndrome may result from an injury or trauma. This injury may affect the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia may be associated with changes in muscle metabolism, such as decreased blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased strength. Others believe the syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent such as a virus in susceptible people, but no such agent has been identified.
Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms mimic those of other diseases. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed criteria for fibromyalgia that physicians can use in diagnosing the disease. According to ACR criteria, a person is considered to have fibromyalgia if he or she has widespread pain for at least 3 months in combination with tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites.
Treatment of fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive approach. The physician, physical therapist, and others in the medical support system, as well as the patient, may all play an active role in the management of fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, improves muscle fitness and reduces muscle pain and tenderness. Heat and massage may also give short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood, improve quality of sleep, and relax muscles. People with fibromyalgia may benefit from a combination of exercise, medication, physical therapy, and relaxation.
Although the cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, researchers have several theories about what triggers the disease. Some scientists believe that the syndrome may result from an injury or trauma. This injury may affect the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia may be associated with changes in muscle metabolism, such as decreased blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased strength. Others believe the syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent such as a virus in susceptible people, but no such agent has been identified.
Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms mimic those of other diseases. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed criteria for fibromyalgia that physicians can use in diagnosing the disease. According to ACR criteria, a person is considered to have fibromyalgia if he or she has widespread pain for at least 3 months in combination with tenderness in at least 11 of 18 specific tender point sites.
Treatment of fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive approach. The physician, physical therapist, and others in the medical support system, as well as the patient, may all play an active role in the management of fibromyalgia. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, improves muscle fitness and reduces muscle pain and tenderness. Heat and massage may also give short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood, improve quality of sleep, and relax muscles. People with fibromyalgia may benefit from a combination of exercise, medication, physical therapy, and relaxation.
The Healing Dance
Most people have experienced the feeling of peace and calm that overcomes the being when lost in the beauty of an art form.
Ancient traditions have used this to propagate energy and negate bad vibes.
Dance is one of the art form which can take a person to a higher level. Whether it is the dervish dance of Sufis in the Arabic world or be it the shamanic dance forms from Africa the ritual dancing is known as a not very orthodox form of healing.
The rhythmic chanting and studied movements accompanied by vibrant colors and beats are ancient ways of bringing the self closer.
When a person moves with the rhythm and slowly loses ones self in it, they are closer to themselves than they ever will be.
The rhythm and repetitive trance like dance is a traditional way to invite good energy and ward of evil vibes. The trance like conditions that are created, are acting as great healers of body problems as they calm and soothe the person helping the entire being fight the illness. These ritualistic dances have been a part of the ancient shamans worked who believed in their healing powers.
Most eastern cultures have these ritualistic dance forms and they are associated different types of healing rituals. The Buddhists say that dance helps you to invoke “mandalas” and help bringing the body in harmony. The Indian tradition speaks of chakras [chakra healing] being balanced to bring good health.
These, ancient shaman like, dance forms heal the soul and the body by bringing them into a balance and connecting them to the primal energies of the world, known from the times when modern medicine was but a dream.
Ancient traditions have used this to propagate energy and negate bad vibes.
Dance is one of the art form which can take a person to a higher level. Whether it is the dervish dance of Sufis in the Arabic world or be it the shamanic dance forms from Africa the ritual dancing is known as a not very orthodox form of healing.
The rhythmic chanting and studied movements accompanied by vibrant colors and beats are ancient ways of bringing the self closer.
When a person moves with the rhythm and slowly loses ones self in it, they are closer to themselves than they ever will be.
The rhythm and repetitive trance like dance is a traditional way to invite good energy and ward of evil vibes. The trance like conditions that are created, are acting as great healers of body problems as they calm and soothe the person helping the entire being fight the illness. These ritualistic dances have been a part of the ancient shamans worked who believed in their healing powers.
Most eastern cultures have these ritualistic dance forms and they are associated different types of healing rituals. The Buddhists say that dance helps you to invoke “mandalas” and help bringing the body in harmony. The Indian tradition speaks of chakras [chakra healing] being balanced to bring good health.
These, ancient shaman like, dance forms heal the soul and the body by bringing them into a balance and connecting them to the primal energies of the world, known from the times when modern medicine was but a dream.
joi, 15 octombrie 2009
Alternative Health Practitioners Not Keeping Up With Latest Research
The assumption is that any professional running a clinic in their own particular field will be aware of any relevant research carried out.
Furthermore when the information is out there these experts in alternative medicine can understand any implications that are involved for their patients.
In the area of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), two large clinical trials, funded by the United States government have taken place in recent years.
However a survey has recently shown that, alarmingly assumptions should not be made and that often significant findings resulting from detailed studies remain unknown or are not fully comprehended.
This means that over two billion dollars worth of research which has been instigated by the American National Institute of Health has potentially been wasted, with forty percent of a large number of different therapists, including naturopaths and rheumatologists not knowing of their existence.
Of the over fifteen hundred clinicians interviewed for the Archives of Internal Medicine publication many were unable to understand what they had read anyway.
In fact very few of these, amongst others, internists and acupuncturists, felt truly confident enough in their ability to study the data and interpret the final conclusions.
Often the ability to translate research findings into practical matters was based purely on the background of the professional in question.
In other words if they had previous experience of research material etc in a more academic environment, usually specialists like rheumatologists, had a greater understanding of its relevancy.
It is vital that this gap in research data and it’s use in medicine, be it traditional or modern, be sorted out, maybe the NIH need to divert some few dollars towards an awareness campaign for the medical fraternity.
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.
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.
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.
Using Silver And Tea Tree Oil To Fight Infections
Tea tree oil and silver (silver nitrate) are both known to be effective against common micro-organisms.
Low concentrations of the two ingredients together have increased antimicrobial activity.
The combination was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, the yeast which causes thrush.
Staph aureus is a common cause of infections and abscesses of the skin. In lab tests, the combination tea tree oil and silver nitrate mixture killed both pathogens.
Once the combination was shown to kill the pathogens, liposomes are used to deliver the mixture into infected wounds. Controlled release is available with the use of liposomes, which are made from naturally occurring fats or phospholipids.
Controlled release is important for several reasons. First, less concentrated amounts can be used and released slowly, which means decreased toxicity and decreased risk of side effects.
Tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin, especially when used in high concentrations. Silver can cause skin to become discolored, turning a bluish-gray color.
This new combination may be an effective treatment for MRSA, or methicillin resistant staph aureus, an increasing concern.
As we age, conditions like bedsores, or chronic leg ulcers, become more common. Traditional silver-based creams use high concentrations of the metal.
Products with a lower yet still effective amount of silver could be safer and more effective, while not damaging healthy skin in the surrounding area.
Low concentrations of the two ingredients together have increased antimicrobial activity.
The combination was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, the yeast which causes thrush.
Staph aureus is a common cause of infections and abscesses of the skin. In lab tests, the combination tea tree oil and silver nitrate mixture killed both pathogens.
Once the combination was shown to kill the pathogens, liposomes are used to deliver the mixture into infected wounds. Controlled release is available with the use of liposomes, which are made from naturally occurring fats or phospholipids.
Controlled release is important for several reasons. First, less concentrated amounts can be used and released slowly, which means decreased toxicity and decreased risk of side effects.
Tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin, especially when used in high concentrations. Silver can cause skin to become discolored, turning a bluish-gray color.
This new combination may be an effective treatment for MRSA, or methicillin resistant staph aureus, an increasing concern.
As we age, conditions like bedsores, or chronic leg ulcers, become more common. Traditional silver-based creams use high concentrations of the metal.
Products with a lower yet still effective amount of silver could be safer and more effective, while not damaging healthy skin in the surrounding area.
Partners
