Although menstruation can be messy and physically unpleasant, it is the body's own way of cleansing by expelling from the uterus the lining which it no longer needs. Once a woman's period is finished, her uterus, cervix and vagina do not need to be cleaned. Vaginal mucus is naturally acidic and contains the proper balance of bacteria, which hinders the growth of harmful bacteria. Any sort of internal cleansing, such as douching, is not only unnecessary but can increase the chance of infection by disturbing this healthy balance of bacteria. It is important to wash the exterior portion of the genitals throughout the month however, particularly during and directly after menstruation.
Instructions
Genital Hygiene
1. While showering, lather your pubic hair with a mild soap and rinse it under running water. To prevent burning yourself, use warm, not hot, water when washing your genital area, since it can scald more easily than other parts of your body.
2. Apply a mild soap to your genital area, using either your hand or a freshly laundered washcloth. Always use a front-to-back motion to avoid introducing anal bacteria into the vagina. Do not scrub vigorously or insert soap into your vagina.
3. Stand with your legs apart and gently pull back the sides of your labia. Adjust your position so that streams of water from the shower are flowing over your genital area. You may need to tilt your pelvis forward or bend your knees slightly to allow the water direct contact. Alternately, you can rinse by squeezing warm water from a squirt bottle or a clean, saturated washcloth over your genital area.
4. Continue rinsing until you all the soap has been washed away and you feel clean.
5. Pat your genital area dry with a clean towel.
Tags: genital area, your genital, your genital area, balance bacteria, mild soap
Lapis lazuli consists of several different minerals.
The gemstone lapis lazuli is composed of several different minerals---including pyrite, calcity, lazurite and sodalite---which provide its multiple colors and sometimes streaked appearance. This stone, which is rare and found in large amounts in only a few locations, has been considered a gem for thousands of years, according to gemsociety.org. It is a soft stone and must be cared for delicately, particularly when cleaning it.
Instructions
1. Fill a shallow bowl with room-temperature or lukewarm water mixed with a very mild soap or jewelry cleaner. Do not use hot water.
2. Place the lapis lazuli in the water briefly. Prolonged contact with water may damage the calcite content.
3. Use a soft smooth cloth such as microfiber (the softer and smoother, the better) to gently rub the lapis lazuli. Do not use an abrasive cloth, which can scratch and ruin the stone.
4. Dry the lapis lazuli quickly and softly with an additional cloth.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs in 90 percent of insulin-dependent diabetics. Hypoglycemia is not something that most of the rest of us have to worry about. However, if you are experiencing certain unexplainable symptoms, talk to your doctor about having your blood sugar measured.
Instructions
1. Evaluate yourself for subjective symptoms of hypoglycemia. They can include unexplained weakness, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, irritability, headache, and/or hunger. If these symptoms diminish or go away if you eat something containing sugar, you may have hypoglycemia.
2. Look for objective symptoms of hypoglycemia. They can include paleness, sweating, increased heart rate, cold and clammy skin, loss of consciousness, or even coma. If these symptoms go away when you eat something containing sugar, you could be hypoglycemic.
3. Consider other options: Could you be pregnant? Are you a chronic or binge drinker? Are you on a prolonged fast? Have you recently been prescribed beta blocker medication? Have you been exercising strenuously? All of these conditions can cause hypoglycemia.
4. Have a blood sugar test done if you suspect you may be hypoglycemic. For women, a blood sugar reading of 45 mg/dL or lower indicates hypoglycemia. For men, blood sugar measuring 55 mg/dL or lower indicates hypoglycemia.
5. Consider getting an annual blood sugar screening test. If you test frequently, you'll learn if you run naturally high or low.
Drug use is a fear of most parents of teenagers. Teenagers who abuse drugs often do so to fit in with a group of peers, to enhance self-esteem or to rebel. Parents should learn the facts about teenage drug abuse in order to deter their children from engaging in such dangerous behavior.
Commonly Abused Drugs
In addition to abusing alcohol and tobacco products---such as cigarettes or chewing tobacco---teenagers also abuse a number of other drugs. According to an article by Dr. Roxanne Dryden-Edwards---a psychiatrist who works with adults, children and adolescents---the following drugs are commonly abused by teenagers:
• Marijuana
• Cold medications, such as Sudafed and Benadryl
• Depressants and stimulants, which alter the emotional state
• Dangerously addicting narcotics, many of which are meant to be used as painkillers. These include morphine, codeine and Vicodin
• Drugs like Ecstasy, known as "club drugs"
• Teens also breathe in the vapors of harmful aerosols, such as gasoline or paint. This practice is known as huffing.
Prescription drugs, easily found in most homes, are becoming increasingly popular among teenagers. According to a survey done by the National Institute on Drug Abuse in 2006, "16.2 million Americans aged 12 and older had taken...prescription [medication] for non-medical purposes at least once in the year prior to being surveyed."
Symptoms
Symptoms of drug abuse vary depending on which kind of drug is being used. According to Dryden-Edwards' article, symptoms of drug use include:
• For tobacco products: yellowed fingertips and fingernails, irritable behavior and a lingering smell of tobacco.
• For marijuana: red eyes, sleepiness, desire to snack heavily, paranoid behavior and uncharacteristic levels of happiness.
• For cold medications: sleepiness or changes in heart rate
• For depressants: sleepiness, lack of inhibition, clumsiness, complaints of dizziness and slowed heart rate and blood pressure
• For stimulants: increased heart rate and blood pressure, irritable behavior, and many of the same symptoms associated with marijuana use, including paranoid behavior and uncharacteristic levels of happiness.
• For narcotics: little response to pain, sleepiness, breathing that is slowed or stopped and uncharacteristic levels of happiness.
• For "club drugs": fever without sweat, frequent use of hard candies, excessive happiness.
• For inhalants: runny or irritated nose, confused or irritable behavior.
The National Youth Network, which has been working since 1990 to aid parents in educating "underachieving youth," outlines the following behaviors that may signal a drug problem:
• Changes in attitude, including the attitude with which a teenager treats work and school
• Greater need for discipline
• Bad temper
• Shirking from responsibility
• Making different kinds of friends, especially friends who are known to use drugs
• Nervous, secretive or aggressive behavior
• Concentration problems
• Lack of hygiene
• Borrowing money or stealing at home, work or school
• Wearing long-sleeved clothing in warm months
Effects
The effects of teen drug use can be devastating. While using drugs, teenagers experience difficulty paying attention. This can negatively affect job performance, grades and friendships and other relationships. Dryden-Edwards offers other effects of drug use in teens:
• Tendency to develop a drug addiction
• Tendency to engage in irresponsible and/or unprotected sexual activity
• Emotional disorders, such as anxiety and hallucinations, which, if severe enough, can trigger suicide or murder
• Abuse of the body. For example, inhalants damage the brain, stimulants can cause heart attack or stroke and sedatives can stop one's breath
According to an article co-authored by Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., a sociologist and psychologist, "One of the most powerful effects of drug abuse and addiction is denial." As a result of denial, drug users tend to blame others for their problems, damaging relationships of all kinds.
Treatment
Seek medical attention for teenagers abusing drugs. Doctors can prescribe medications that Dryden-Edwards says "counteract the effects of drugs." She also recommends that fluids be given to dehydrated individuals and that cooling blankets be placed over individuals with high temperatures. In addition, Dryden-Edwards suggests that doctors order a psychiatric evaluation of a patient who has abused drugs.
Prevention
According to Dryden-Edwards, communication with teens and parental supervision are two of the best methods for preventing teen drug use. Also, limit the amount of aerosols, prescription drugs and alcohol kept in the home. Enroll teenagers in extracurricular activities to prevent drug use in the late afternoon hours, when many teenagers are at home and are unsupervised. Finally, monitor the Internet access that teenagers have in the home. This can be done by changing computer passwords, setting up parental controls and keeping computers in common rooms, instead of allowing a teen to have a personal computer in his or her own bedroom. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, part of the U.S. Department of Justice, some drugs are promoted or sold online. Examples include marijuana, ecstasy and club drugs. Instructions detailing make drug paraphernalia, such as "bongs"---which are used to smoke marijuana---can also be found online.
Tags: club drugs, drug abuse, heart rate, irritable behavior, levels happiness
Under normal conditions, the atmosphere contains 20 percent oxygen. Air, by and large, consists of another gas, nitrogen, at around 80 percent. As normal atmospheric pressure is nearly 15 lbs. for every square inch, with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), 100 percent oxygen is delivered at two to three times normal atmospheric pressure. It is used to treat a myriad of medical conditions and has now become a topic of study and research in the United States as it shows promise of success with treating several other disease conditions as well.
Function
When an individual receives hyperbaric oxygen treatment, they are placed inside of a sealed oxygen chamber. Hyperbaric vessels can be made of traditional steel and aluminum, or portable plastic. Breathing normally, pure oxygen is inhaled as it gradually fills the vessel and reaches prescribed pressure. Hyperbaric oxygen chambers can accommodate one person or several at once depending upon its type. A typical treatment may last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. As the treatment comes to an end, the pressure of the vessel is gradually decreased to normal atmospheric pressure.
Hyperbaric oxygen increases the level of oxygen within the blood, tissues and organs of the body. Helping the body to fight infection, pure pressurized oxygen aids in the healing of difficult wounds as new tissues and blood vessels develop. It also aids in riding the body of carbon monoxide.
History
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy first began to be used only as a treatment for "the bends" or decompression sickness in the 1940s. Decompression sickness is a condition brought on by the accumulation of nitrogen "bubbles" in the body of scuba divers and miners. Occurring usually within six hours of resurfacing, it is marked by deep musculoskeletal pain, weakness, fatigue and confusion.
The first hyperbaric oxygen chamber was invented in 1662 in Britain.
Indications
According to the U.S.Food and Drug Administration, the Undersea Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) is the professional organization responsible for establishing standards for proper hyperbaric oxygen use. (Reference 3)
The UHMS has listed 13 such conditions which have been approved for hyperbaric oxygen therapy:
--Air embolism
--Burns
--Anemia
--Carbon-monoxide poisoning
--Cyanide poisoning
--Clostridial myositis and myonecrosis ( also call gas gangrene, muscle-tissue death)
--Compartment syndrome and crush injuries
--Decompression sickness
--Healing enhancement of problem wounds
--Intracranial abscess
--Necrotic soft-tissue infection
--Refractory osteomyelitis
--Necrosis of soft tissue and bone due to radiation (occurring months to years past radiation exposure, typically from radiation therapy, a treatment for cancer)
--Compromised skin grafts and flaps
Considerations
Although minimal, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has some associated risks and side effects such as headaches, ear-popping, claustrophobia and tiredness. Because oxygen is delivered at pressures higher than the atmosphere, oxygen toxicity can develop. Symptoms include vision problems (myopia), mental confusion, lung collapse and seizures. People with congestive heart failure can experience an exacerbation of symptoms. It is important to note that with HBOT, there is a potential explosion or fire risk as pure oxygen gas is extremely flammable.
HBOT is contraindicated for pregnant women unless circumstances are extremely serious, and no other treatment options are available. There is a high risk of lung collapse for those with pneumothorax and emphysema. Pneumothorax is a condition resulting from air or gas trapped inside of the pleural space of the lungs causing partial lung collapse. The pleural space is an area between the pleura, a two-layered membrane covering the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath ranging from little to severe, chest pain, and a dry cough. Except in cases where the pneumothorax is of large size, the lungs will gradually inflate and the air is absorbed.
Potential
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has emerged as a promising new method of treatment for those suffering from fibromyalgia.The National Institutes of Health reported on a study conducted at a military hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, which administered hyperbaric oxygen treatments to a group of people with fibromyalgia. The control group received only a placebo. Symptoms of pain and tender points were assessed after the first and 15th treatments in both groups. It was found that HBOT had significantly increased pain thresholds and lowered the number of tender points in the group with fibromyalgia. No improvement was notable for those within the control group. Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a rheumatic condition characterized by pain and stiffness of the joints and muscles of the body. Other marked symptoms include fatigue, mental confusion, problems with sleep, numbness or tingling, restless leg syndrome and gastrointestinal problems. Currently, fibromyalgia has no cure.
Tags: oxygen therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, atmospheric pressure, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, lung collapse, normal atmospheric, normal atmospheric pressure
Along with regular brushing and flossing, chlorhexidine helps treat gingivitis.
Approximately 52.9 percent of Americans over the age of 20 suffer from gingivitis, reports the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Dentists use a number of treatments for the condition, including the prescription medication chlorhexidine.
Function
Gingivitis is caused by the presence of bacteria along your gum line. Chlorhexidine works by piercing through the protective layers of bacterial cells, causing the cells to die.
Types
Chlorhexidine comes in two forms: a liquid oral rinse and a chip that can be placed into the pocket formed by your gum's lifting away from your teeth. The latter type is typically used along with root scaling or planing--procedures used to remove built up tartar and plaque.
Time Frame
Dentists typically prescribe the rinse form of chlorhexidine to be swished in your mouth for 30 seconds once per day in a 15 mL dosage, reports the Mayo Clinic. The chip version is typically prescribed once every three months as long as the condition persists, according to RxList.
Warning
Although effective at eliminating bacteria, chlorhexidine does not remove plaque or tartar, explains the Mayo Clinic. Even with the medication, regular brushing and flossing are necessary for good oral health.
Considerations
Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, doctors rarely prescribe chlorhexidine for the treatment of gingivitis in pregnant women. If you have front tooth fillings or a history of periodontitis, it may not be safe for you to use chlorhexidine, cautions the Mayo clinic.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are two of the most fatal diseases because they may not exhibit early symptoms. Additionally, the two diseases make the body vulnerable to other illnesses, "opportunistic infections," it may have otherwise fended off.
Below are some of the symptoms of the HIV/AIDS infections, as well as symptoms of their consequent opportunistic infections.
Lymph node swelling
The lymph nodes swell because of the body's decline in CD4+ T cells that normally act as immunity shields from infection. Lymph nodes are located in the armpits, groin and neck. You may also experience difficulty or pain swallowing because there are lymph nodes located near the throat.
Flu-like Symptoms
Watch for flu-like symptoms such as fever, nausea, profuse sweating, fatigue or white spots on the tongue and in the mouth.
Some telltale signs more particular to HIV/AIDS include loss of memory or confusion, discolored splotches on the skin or inside the nose, eyelid or mouth, or diarrhea lasting longer than one week.
Diagnosis
The only guaranteed way to find out if you are infected is to get a blood test. You can also provide a urine or saliva sample for testing, although the accuracy rate is not as high.
Opportunistic Infections
The most common opportunistic infections, or infections that arise from HIV/AIDS's weakening of the body's immune system, include cancer, pink eye (conjunctivitis), tonsilitis, tuberculosis, herpes simplex, lymphoma, blood poisoning and pneumonia.
They are usually preceded by signs similar to those mentioned above, as well as vomiting, weight loss, seizures, coma, abdominal cramps, loss of vision or excruciating headaches.
Prevention
HIV/AIDS can be prevented. You can abstain from sexual intercourse or practice safe sex through the use of a latex condom and lubrication. The Centers for Disease Control also recommend discussing sexual health and sexually transmitted diseases with your partner, along with getting tested regularly if you are sexually active. Be aware of your HIV/AIDS status. It helps to also get vaccinated against hepatitis B. Do not administer illicit drugs via injection. If you are legally using an injected drug, use clean needles, do not share needles and dispose of needles properly.
Tags: opportunistic infections, lymph nodes, nodes located
Lung cancer begins when normal cells of the body undergo a permanent transformation in which the cells become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. This process is known as mutation. These changes can take place anywhere in the respiratory tract, from the bronchus (windpipe) to the alveoli (small, sac-like structures deep within the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged).
Risk Factors for Lung Cancer
There are many factors that have been associated with the development of lung cancer, with tobacco smoke contributing to almost 90 percent of all cases. Cigarettes aside, environmental exposure to things like secondhand smoke, air pollution and radon (a colorless, odorless gas that is found in soil and rocks) have also been known to cause cancer.
Chronic workplace exposure to industrial, cancer-causing toxins such as arsenic, radiation or asbestos can also lead to cancer--as does having a family history of lung cancer or having other respiratory illnesses such as COPD or tuberculosis.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The most common symptom of lung cancer is a cough that won't go away. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound made during breathing) and pain in the back, shoulders, chest or arms. If you have a cough that changes in character, you should see your doctor for a chest X-ray.
Prognosis of Lung Cancer
When diagnosed early enough and treated with surgery, lung cancer can be entirely curable. Unfortunately, in many cases, a diagnosis of lung cancer comes after the disease has spread to other parts of the body, leaving no option of surgery. Having inoperable lung cancer, however, doesn't mean that lung cancer can't be treated. There are many treatment options available for lung cancer that can help increase survival, improve qualify of life and perhaps even result in remission.
Tags: lung cancer, cough that, lung cancer, Lung Cancer, There many
A complete body detox aims to remove toxins and other foreign substances from all the body's cells and organs. People get toxins in the body from household chemicals, foods, pollution and even from a poor diet. Eliminating toxins is a process that can take several weeks or even a month. One way to eliminate these toxins is to combine two or three cleansing methods that focusing on removing toxins from all areas of the body.
The Importance of Detoxing
People detox for various reasons: to maintain their help, overcome symptoms (a common one is gastritis) or to get over illnesses. Most toxins are eliminating through the urinary tract or colon, which is why detox programs often focus on cleansing the colon, liver and gall bladder. Toxins that originate in the colon are usually caused by an overgrowth of candida, a yeast-like fungus that can overproduce and cause many adverses symptoms. As the body's bacteria fights the excess yeast, the yeast emits toxins as it dies. If left untreated, these toxins can enter the blood stream and invade body cells and organs.
Any method of detoxing requires that one drink lots of fluid. Water can aid the detoxing process. Also, people often get dehydrated when detoxing. so drinking water is essential.
Juicing
Juicing is a popular way to eliminate toxins from the body. Juicing basically entails taking raw vegetables and fruits, mixing them in a blender and drinking them. Vegetables and fruits have high levels of enzymes, which can fight systemic yeast. They can also lower one's ph level, which kills off viruses, diseases and parasites in the body. Some vegetables used in juicing include carrots, cucumbers, beets, radishes, kale, parsley, garlic and wheat grass. Pineapples, kiwi, bananas, lemons and apples are some common fruits used in juicing.
Probiotics & Enzymes
Probiotics can add "friendly" bacteria to the digestive tract to help eliminate yeast, toxins and parasites. They can be purchased at health food stores.
Digestive enzymes kill yeast and help with the assimilation of protein, starches and other food substances. One can either eat lots of raw vegetables or purchase plant enzymes when detoxing their entire body.
Gluten & Sugar
A complete body detox often requires that you eliminate gluten and sugar from your diet. These food ingredients can feed systemic yeast and elevate toxin levels in the body. The problem is that most commercial foods like bread and pasta contain gluten and sugar. You can either substitute these foods with rice and almond substitutes, or eat more gluten and sugar-free foods. Most meats, potatoes, yams, beans, lentil, brown rice, vegetables and fruits are gluten-free.
Colon Cleanses
There are two types of colon cleanses: powder cleanses and colonic irrigation. The former are usually mixed in water. You can drink this mixture of foods and herbs for 2-4 weeks to detox the colon. Colonic irrigation is usually administered by a licensed colon hydrotherapist. his method entails flushing the large intestines with purified water. Both methods are effective in eliminating fecal and mucus impactions where yeast, toxins and parasites are harbored.
Ionic Foot Baths
Ionic foot baths can detox many cells and organs. This process uses positive and negative ions to remove unbalanced cells from the body. These cells are the ones that have been invaded by viruses, parasites and toxins. The color of the water can determine from which area the toxins are being released. For example, an orange tint in the water indicates the detoxification of joints.
Saunas & Massages
Saunas employ heat to rid cells and tissues of toxins and parasites. Only healthy cells can withstand high levels of heat.
Deep message therapy can eliminate toxins in muscle tissues and lymph nodes. There are also massage chairs that can simulate these movements. Most people that get massages for detox purposes also do colon cleanses to eliminate the toxins that are released during the massage.
Tags: cells organs, eliminate toxins, from body, toxins parasites, body cells
Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, muscle aches and exhaustion. Among its many other symptoms are sleep disturbances, brain fog and digestive issues. Since there is no cure for fibromyalgia, treatment is designed to handle its symptoms. Light therapy, the use of natural light, has been used to treat other conditions such as depression and seasonal affective disorder and it can also be used for people with fibromyalgia as well.
Light Therapy
Light therapy functions by sending natural light to the body, which in turn releases hormones that help with healing. People with fibromyalgia can benefit from light therapy since it helps with depression, exhaustion, insomnia and muscle aches.
The most common form of light therapy is called bright light therapy. Those who practice light therapy believe the body operates based on circadian rhythms, cycles that control sleep, energy and mood and are based on the amount of light the body receives.
When undergoing light therapy, you will be using powerful fluorescent lights that restore your circadian rhythms. People who undergo light therapy will use what is known as a light box. Inside this box are 10 or more full-spectrum light bulbs. You will sit near the box for the duration of the session, which can last from 15 minutes to three hours. During the session, you are allowed to engage in whatever activity you like, as long as you remain seated in front of the box.
Other Forms
Two other forms of light therapy include color light therapy and low-light laser therapy. Color light therapy uses colored light, which is converted into electrical impulses that allows the brain to reduce serotonin and endorphins. The release of these hormones helps ease pain and elevate your mood. Color therapy sessions tend to last 15 minutes to an hour.
Low-light laser therapy, also known as cold light therapy, applies low-light laser beams directly to problem areas of the body. Your cells absorb the photons emitted by the lasers, which are then converted into energy. This energy helps promote faster healing and reduces pain. Low-light laser therapy sessions generally last 15 to 20 minutes.
Warnings
Though light therapy is well-tolerated, its most common side effects include eye and skin irritation. Some people also feel nauseous during or after their first few sessions. Session times may have to be reduced if you feel anxious or overstimulated. Light therapy is not recommended for people with eye problems like glaucoma, people with sensitive skin or those with epilepsy.
Johnny has been pretty wide awake for the last few months. You can't seem to stop his extremely chipper mood. For a teenager headed off to college, he seems pretty involved with four different clubs, three sports teams and five volunteer events each month. "I can handle it all!" he says. And maybe it is a good thing, compared to five months ago when you could hardly get Johnny to eat a meal with the family, get out of bed or even go to school. Such is the life of a bipolar sufferer.
Bipolar Defined
Bipolar disorder, as defined in the "Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV-TR," is a mood disorder that involves both manic and major depressive mood swings. These states don't normally cycle on a daily basis. Instead, people with bipolar disorder that are untreated with medication will go for months at a time in one of the two major moods, with a tough transitioning period from the ups to the downs.
When a bipolar person is in the manic mood, he will have a lot of energy and may want to get involved in several activities, like the fictional Johnny in the introduction. If the condition is accompanied with antisocial behavior, you could soon find this person doing dangerous and sometimes criminal activities. For family members, either situation may be tough to deal with. A family member may be happy to see a relative happy and wide awake, but they could also find themselves trying to keep pace with a bipolar sufferer in the manic state.
Mood Swings and Family Dangers
The manic mood also does not always means a person is happy. In fact, the myth about depressed people that are suicidal is that they are likely to kill themselves in low moods. The truth is that people in the low phase don't have the energy to do it, unlike bipolar sufferers in manic moods. This could be another worry that families may have with bipolar members, should a major family event happen like job loss or loss of home.
Another issue is trying to convince the bipolar member to stay on medications. Medications for bipolar sufferers are notorious for having bad side effects. Although medications like Lithium and Topamax can effectively control the manic and depressive mood swings, bipolar sufferers have often complained about tremors, diarrhea or detachment.
Tags: bipolar sufferers, with bipolar, bipolar sufferer, depressive mood, depressive mood swings, disorder that, have energy
Suction cupping is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Originally, cattle horns were used as "cups" as an alternative form to surgery. The idea behind cupping is to emit heat through the cups, using the negative pressure, to suck or absorb toxins from the skin, thereby relaxing rigid muscles and tissues and stimulating blood circulation. Today, cupping has evolved from the simple cattle horns to the use of magnetic products; however, it still retains the principle of alternative healing.
Identification
Magnetic suction cups are individual cups with a squeezable vacuum bulb attached on top. Each cup contains a magnetic tip or "needle" inside.
Function
The principle behind using magnetic needles is to realign the orientation of the north and south poles in the body in order to create an equal, balanced stimulation using acupressure points.
Feature
Magnetic suction cupping does not involve piercing the skin. The magnetic tip stays within the cup and stays fixed on the skin.
Consideration
Temporary purple cup markings on the skin are normal after the therapy session and disappear within a couple of days.
Treatment
Many use this alternative treatment to heal various ailments including common colds, muscle aches, asthma, insomnia and even to aid in weight loss.
The streptococcus bacteria is responsible for the condition known as strep throat. While strep throat is known as more of a childhood disease, it can strike adults as well. The streptococcus bacteria is also found in other parts of the body, and while a strep infection in an adult is usually harmless, it can sometimes create complications that can get quite dangerous.
Identification
Strep is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria known as streptococcus. Most people are familiar with the term "strep throat," but the streptococcus bacteria is present in the bowels, the rectum, the urinary bladder and other abdominal organs. The symptoms of a strep infection in an infant are the same as an adult; the difference is that with an infant the complications from strep can be much more severe than for an adult. A child with strep can develop complications such as rheumatic fever, which can attack the joints and the heart, if strep is not properly treated.
Strep Throat
The initial symptoms of strep throat are a noticeable red rash in the throat accompanied by white bumps. If the tonsils are still present, then the tonsils may be covered in white bumps or with pus. The person will have a very difficult time swallowing, and the lymph nodes in the neck swell noticeably. It is possible that adults with strep throat may experience no symptoms at all, and the body will get rid of the bacteria on its own.
Abdominal Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of a strep infection in the abdominal region, or any other part of the body, include fever, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite and abdominal pain. In more serious conditions, symptoms such as a red rash on the skin, pain or stiffness in the joints and nausea may be present. These symptoms of strep bacterial infection in an adult are rare, and they should be reported to a physician immediately.
Pregnancy
One of the more common adult groups that become infected with the streptococcus bacteria is pregnant women. A strep infection in a pregnant woman can lead to a urinary tract infection, which will cause symptoms such as fever and abdominal pain. There is also a possibility that the infection will cause inflammation in the lining of the uterus, and this can result in pain in the abdominal area that should be looked at by a doctor immediately.
Sepsis
According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 200,000 people die each year from sepsis. Sepsis is a condition of the bloodstream that is caused by a bacterial infection, such as the streptococcus bacteria. Sepsis is common in pregnant women and in adults over the age of 65. The more common symptoms of sepsis are fever, rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing. In some cases, blood pressure drops so rapidly that patients go into what is known as sepsis shock, which can be a very severe and potentially fatal condition. Sepsis is fatal in about 25 percent of cases.
Boys wear leather bracelets to make a fashion statement, whether it's casual, contemporary or trendy. A younger boy might opt for a simple leather cord or a mini braided bracelet with a tie closure while a teenager will want something more mature. Boys leather bracelet ideas include something for boys of all ages and interests.
Studded
Goth or punk boys prefer thick studded leather bracelets. To make one yourself, check out styles in stores and online. Draw up a design that makes a bold statement. Silver or gold studs or a ½ inch or higher spikes in metal are a must for this bracelet.
Purchase a few leather crafting tools and embellishments to put out something fierce. Make it a leather wristband with a silver star or compose one with several rows of pyramid studs. Alternate studs with one inch spikes and hammer on distressed black leather.
Not into the craft yourself? Have your design customized. Purchase a leather medallion with a skull, spider, flames or chains. Or shop at online sites.
Cuff
For the rocker, create an amazing cuff of at least two inches wide. These leather bracelets are punched, whip stitched or personalized with power words.
Draw up some sketches and experiment on leather scraps. It takes some imagination and nominal effort. With some basic leather crafting tools, create leather cuffs expressively for you.
Look at leather cuff styles with geometric or tribal cutouts. Wide cuffs boast an ornamental metal design or are laser etched. Find distressed leather cuffs in metallic or bold colors. Cuffs usually have two sets of snaps for an adjustable fit.
Cord
Create your own braided bracelet. A simple method is cutting three equal lengths of leather cord. Cord width, texture and color are a personal choice.
Tie a knot at one end of the cords and tape to a table. Proceed to braid the loose cords. Tightly pull each set. Clamp the ends using a sterling silver cone closure and clasp.
Leather cord bracelets abound with different colored leathers woven together or intricately knotted. Leather cord is wrapped and braided with hemp or organic fibers. More elaborately braided bracelets are made in a herringbone pattern with a gaucho knot added as a closure.
Fleas don't just bite pets. If you have a flea problem in your home or yard, these tiny insects can also bite humans. Preventing flea problems can be an ongoing issue in your home depending on where you live.
Instructions
1. Use Frontline or another flea medication on your pets. If you have dogs and cats that run around outside, they can acquire fleas rather easily.
2. Place a bug bomb in your home. You can purchase bug bombs at your local store yourself or hire someone to do it for you. You may have to set off two bug bombs to get the job done thoroughly.
3. Treat your lawn for fleas. There are flea and pest controlling fertilizers and other products on the market that can eliminate fleas in your yard. If you attack the place where fleas originated in your home, you can go a long way to prevent flea bites.
4. Buy Ridex or another pest controlling product to keep wild animals and critters off your property. Skunks, squirrels, raccoons and deer bring fleas onto your property.
5. Sit in the sun for a few minutes each day. Fleas like to bite fairer skin more than darker skin. Many health experts agree you should get a few minutes of sun each day, as long as you don't overdo it. Darker skin can help you fend off flea bites.
Tags: your home, flea bites, minutes each, pest controlling, pets have, Prevent Flea, Prevent Flea Bites
An X-ray machine is one of the many tools used by an orthopedist
The medical discipline of orthopedics deals with the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system consists of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves and skin. Orthopedics is partially a surgical discipline though orthopedists also have non-surgical applications. The orthopedic process includes not only surgical tools, but medicinal, physical and rehabilitation methods. Surgery may be seen as a last resort to restore function of the musculoskeletal system after an accident or an illness if medical or rehabilitative methods cannot be used.
X-ray Machine
In some cases an X-ray machine is vital to the diagnosis process of the orthopedist. The orthopedist uses X-ray machines on a regular basis if not every day. An X-ray machine can show the orthopedist the discrepancies inside the musculoskeletal system of the patient and allow them a better handle on the problem that the patient is facing. An X-ray machine can be used to diagnose many problems inside the body through pictures the machine takes of the inner workings of the skeletal system.
Specialist Tools
Many of the tools an orthopedist uses share the same name as tools commonly used by a carpenter. Hammers, saws and drills are all tools that the orthopedist uses for various jobs such as chiseling away at bunion-afflicted joints or sawing through a bone to make a clean repair. An orthopedist needs to use a drill to make holes for screws to bind metal to bone in broken legs and arms on occasion.
Binding Tools
As mentioned earlier, tools orthopedists use resemble carpenter tools. These include screws and cement. Screws are used to hold a bone in place as the orthopedist applies a metal splint to a cracked bone. Drills are used to make riveted holes in the bone, the metal is placed over the holes and screws are driven into the bone to hold the pieces of metal in place on the bones. When screws are not the best option for this procedure, a metal wire can be tightly and securely wrapped around the bone holding the metal splint flat against the bone. Cement, for example, is used when there is a shattered bone in a leg or arm, and the pieces of bone are needed to be affixed together for the healing process. Screws are also used to hold joints in place after a surgery. The screws may come out after the healing process or they may be a permanent addition to the joint.
Massage is beneficial for more than stress relief. While lowering your stress is important, a greater benefit of massage is improved health. Your lymphatic system helps maintain your immune system and nourishes your cells, but it doesn't have a pump system like your circulatory system, therefore its movement is up to you. The lymphatic massage is a perfect way to relax and get your lymph system pumping at the same time.
Instructions
Stage 1: Face
1. Cover your face with facial moisturizer.
2. With the sides of your index fingers, massage your forehead in an up-and-down motion. After the forehead massage, rub your temples and work your way down to the bottom front of your ears.
3. Massage your cheek bones from the outside of your nose to the outside of your cheeks below your outer eye. Continue using the sides of your index fingers but use a vibrating touch.
4. When you reach the outside of your cheekbones, lower your jaw and open your mouth. Place three fingers in the hollow below your outer cheekbone and massage with circular motions. While doing this, place your thumbs below your ears and behind your jaw and vibrate. Move your fingers toward the center of your cheekbones, and vibrate your thumbs down your jawline until they meet together at your chin.
5. Relax your neck muscles on your right side by tilting your head to the right. Take your left hand and stroke your fingertips down the right side of your neck and then across the shoulder. Do this eight times on the right side, then repeat the steps with your left side.
Upper Body Lymphatic Massage
6. Rub your arms and upper body with massage oil. Holding your left arm in front of you, take your right hand and using your fingertips, lightly stroke the inside of your arm from your wrist to the inside of your elbow. At your inner elbow, massage in a circular motion for about 60 seconds, then continue up your arm to the armpit. When you reach your armpit, do the circular motions once again and then pinch and squeeze your skin. This forces the lymph fluid out into circulation.
7. Use light strokes to move from the armpit, across your breast to to the center of your chest. Repeat this entire process with your right arm.
8. At the center of your breast bone, massage in a circular motion.
9. From the center of your abdomen, use strokes that go across your rib cage and out towards your armpit.
Lower Body Lymphatic Massage
10. Rub massage oil over your legs. Use your left hand and massage your toes with circular motions. Be sure to get in between toes as well. Using light strokes with your fingertips, move up to your ankle where you will use circular motions around the entire ankle. Continue upward from ankle to the calf. Be sure to get the front and back of the calf.
11. Massage from the calf to the knee, and at the knee use circular motions. Use the palms of your hands and stroke from your knee to your upper thigh. When you reach the top of your thigh and you are below the buttocks, use firm circular motions.
12. On the front of your thigh stroke upward and across the groin area. Try to do both sides at the same time. Move the palms of your hands upward, across the groin area, until they come together at your abdomen. Go over your groin area several times as many lymph nodes are in this area.
13. When both hands meet at your abdomen, stroke downward to your groin area once more.
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The Mayo Clinic says approximately 10 percent of people in the U.S. will develop a peptic ulcer at some point in their lifetime. There are three types: those in the esophagus, small intestine and stomach. The latter is known as a gastric ulcer.
Although they are frequently associated with high stress or very spicy foods, the Mayo Clinic says the majority of peptic ulcers are due to either a bacterial infection or certain medications. They are highly treatable.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptom of any peptic ulcer is pain that has a burning feeling to it. Stomach acid can worsen the discomfort the open sore that is the ulcer.
The pain may be quite brief or go on for hours. It can be worse at night and on an empty stomach. An acid-reducing medication may temporarily treat the symptoms.
Less Common Symptoms
Sometimes ulcers can cause more acute symptoms, including nausea and vomiting (possibly blood), unusually dark or tarry stools and weight loss.
The National Institute of Health says peptic ulcer sufferers may also experience fatigue.
Causes of Peptic Ulcers
The Mayo Clinic says the vast majority of ulcers are caused by the curvy-shaped bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which infects 20 percent of people under 30 and 50 percent of those over 60. The bacterium lives and grows within the mucous layer that coats and shields the tissues that line the stomach and small intestine.
While often not problematic, H. pylori can upset the mucous layer and produce inflammation in the lining of your stomach, causing an ulcer.
H. pylori can be transmitted from one person to another and through food and water.
Pain Medication and Ulcers
Taking certain pain relievers on a regular basis can upset the lining of your stomach and small intestine and cause peptic ulcers to develop. These nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and ketoprofen.
If you take NSAIDs, you will be less likely to upset your digestive tract if you take them with food.
Lifestyle Risks
Other factors that may contribute to the development of peptic ulcers include smoking, drinking alcohol to excess and high stress.
Untreated Ulcers
Untreated, peptic ulcers carry the risk of infection in the abdominal area and can also cause internal bleeding that could necessitate a blood transfusion.
Peptic ulcers also can leave scar tissue that blocks the route of food through the digestive tract. This can cause a premature feeling of fullness and can lead to weight loss.
Treating Ulcers
Your doctor may prescribe a combination of antibiotics to kill the bacteria, since it may be resistant to a single medication.
An acid blocker (cimetidine, ranitidine, or famotidine) and/or antacids also may be used to lessen pain, defuse stomach acid and promote healing.
Tags: Clinic says, Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic says, peptic ulcer, small intestine
Parkinson's disease is caused by a deterioration of nerve cells or progressive impairment in the substantia nigra, which is an area in your brain. Nerve cells in the brain produce the chemical messenger dopamine. Dopamine allows communication between the substantia nigra and the corpus striatum, which is another area of the brain. This communication is vital, because it coordinates balanced muscle movement in your body. When your brain receives a lack of dopamine, you lose the ability to control your bodily movements. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown, but researchers and scientists believe there could be genetic or environmental factors.
Genetics
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, there have been links to genetic abnormalities that Parkinson's disease is passed on from parent to child. The Parkinson's Disease Society have found nine genes that relate to Parkinson's disease. One of these genes is called parkin, and has been associated with Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD). According to their study, 1 in 20 people who are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease are under the age of 40. If the parkin gene mutates, you lose normal function of protein, and this leads to the death of nerve cells in your brain.
Environmental
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, there is evidence supporting the fact that toxins may cause Parkinson's disease. Their studies have shown that internal and external toxins destroy the dopamine in your brain. These toxins include carbon disulfide, carbon monoxide, manganese and some pesticides. These toxins produce oxidative stress in your body, and this causes free radicals to react with other molecules. The body is supposed to get rid of the free radicals. In Parkinson's disease, the body produces too many free radicals and they damage the nerve cells in your brain.
Tags: your brain, free radicals, nerve cells, Parkinson disease, According National
Chronic bladder infections affect both males and females. However, they're more common in females. Every female will likely experience at least one bladder infection in her lifetime, whereas a man may never deal with an infection. Infections are typically mild, in which sufferers recover within a week. In some instances, sufferers deal with recurrent bladder infections. Because a seemingly mild bladder infection can intensify and lead to other health problems, it's vital to pinpoint the cause of recurrent bladder infections.
Types
There are two types of bladder infections: upper urinary tract and lower urinary tract infections. Both types are generally caused by bacteria that enters or develops inside the urethra. In women, bacteria from sexual intercourse and the use of a diaphragm can cause an infection. Men typically develop bacteria in the urinary tract after waiting too long to empty their bladders.
Identification
Signs and symptoms of a bladder infection vary. You may experience mild symptoms, such as abdominal or pelvic pressure. On the other hand, you may deal with painful or troublesome symptoms, such as severe pelvic pain, frequent urination, painful urination and fever. Bladder infection symptoms typically develop rapidly. Depending on the severity of the infection, blood may be present in the urine.
Effects
If left untreated, bladder infections can develop into a kidney infection, which is a serious health condition. This occurs when bacteria in the lower or upper urinary tract escapes into the bloodstream and travels to the kidneys. Tell-tale signs of a kidney infection include pain in the upper back and sides, a high fever, nausea and chills. Unlike bladder infections, which can respond to self-treatment, kidney infections require antibiotics.
Considerations
Sexual intercourse is a common cause of bladder infections in women. However, other factors can contribute to chronic infections. In women, wearing tight clothing and waiting too long to urinate breeds bacteria, which can trigger recurrent infections. Additionally, improper wiping after a bowel movement can push bacteria from the anus into the urethra and cause a bladder infection in women. With men, an enlarged prostate can block the proper flow of urine and cause an infection.
Prevention/Solution
Fortunately, there are numerous ways to prevent chronic bladder infections. After identifying the various causes of the infection, take steps to maintain a healthy bladder. Women can limit their use of scented feminine hygiene products and attempt to urinate after sexual intercourse to flush bacteria from the urethra. Both males and females can drink plenty of fluids, such as water and cranberry juice, to fight infection.
Using tea tree oil for conquering gum disease may not be such a great idea. Tea tree oil seems to have antiseptic properties in its leaves. But according to the Mayo Clinic, using tea tree oil may also do some unpleasant things to your mouth as well as your body.
Uses
Tea tree oil has been utilized by Aborigines for centuries as an antiseptic, antifungal treatment, to treat dandruff, acne, jock itch, and gum disease, among other conditions and illnesses.
Background
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the native Australian Melaleuca alternifiolia tree. The oil is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of the plant. The tea tree oil plant is said to have antiseptic properties. According to the Mayo Clinic, the Melaleuca alterniflia plant's terpinen-4-ol, is believed to be the essential curing ingredient It also has been used as a disinfectant.
Warnings
Even though Aborigines have been utilizing tea tree oil for thousands of years, the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus warn people that tea tree oil should not be utilized orally for gum disease. Evidence based by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration says that there are reported cases of toxicity of tea tree oil when consuming it by the mouth. When applied to the skin, it can be mildly irritating. Tea tree oil has been associated with the development of allergic contact dermatitis.
Side Effects
Utilizing tea tree oil for curing gum disease can bring out reactions in people, according to Medline Plus.. Even when this herb is taken in small quantities reactions can take place.If tea tree oil is taken by mouth, the functioning of the immune system can be reduced. Other possible side effects are abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, drowsiness, confusion and bad breath. One can even fall into a coma.
Not Use
Tea tree oil may interact negatively with several medications, according to the Mayo Clinic. A person using the following medications may want to check with his doctor before using tea tree oil and anti-inflammatory medications, any anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, cancer medications or herbal supplements.
Safety
The United States Food and Drug Administration does not study or regulate herbal supplements. According to the Mayo Clinic there is no guarantee of the safety and the effects of tea tree oil may vary.
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Lymphoma, which is also called non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, is cancer of the lymphatic system, the body's disease-fighting system. In lymphoma, tumors develop in a type of white blood cells called lymphocytes. The incidence of lymphoma has increased greatly since the 1970s, but the exact cause is unknown. As with most cancers, treatment and prognosis are dependent on many factors, including the stage of the disease when it is diagnosed. Knowing the early warning signs of lymphoma is key to early diagnosis. When diagnosed early, lymphoma is considered a very treatable form of cancer.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
One of the earliest signs of lymphoma in many people is swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin, armpits and neck. In many cases, this may be the only early symptom.
Abdominal Symptoms
If lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity are involved, early signs may include stomach or abdominal swelling or pain in the stomach. These conditions can lead to loss of appetite and nausea and vomiting in some cases.
Chest Symptoms
If the lymph nodes in the chest are involved, early signs of lymphoma may include chest pain or a feeling of pressure on the chest or windpipe. Some people may also experience a cough or shortness of breath.
Night Sweats
Heavy sweating at night, often enough to soak through the clothes, can be one of the first signs of lymphoma.
Fever
Some people in the early stages of lymphoma will have a recurrent fever. Because this is often a sign of common illnesses and infections, this symptom is often overlooked.
Other General Symptoms
Other early signs of lymphoma can include fatigue, unexplained weight loss and very itchy skin, but many people will not experience any of these symptoms, which are sometimes characteristics of quickly growing cancer cells.
Tags: signs lymphoma, early signs, early signs lymphoma, involved early, involved early signs
Beginners should hold onto the elliptical's handlebars until they are comfortable with the motions.
Elliptical machines are becoming increasingly popular in health clubs, rivaling only treadmills as the most widely used cardio machine. The elliptical machine combines the movements of the stair climber, treadmill, rowing machine and stationary bike, according to Man Health Fitness Solutions. Because your feet are always supported, it's less stressful on your back, hips and knees than running on a treadmill. Some elliptical machines have built-in staves or poles so that you can exercise your upper body simultaneously -- which results in more calories burned per minute. And most elliptical machines can be pedaled in reverse, allowing you to work your lower body muscles differently, reports the Mayo Clinic.
Instructions
1. Stand up straight when using the elliptical machine. The better your posture, the more effective your workout. Your shoulders should be back, your head up and your abdominal muscles tight, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Leaning forward onto the handles might result in a strained back and, contrary to popular belief, will not emphasize your buttocks more.
2. Start slowly and increase your intensity level once you're certain you fully mastered the motions of the elliptical. Too much too soon might result in injury.
3. Mix forward and backward striding to avoid overuse injuries and maximize your calorie burn. Because your body eventually gets used to doing exercise a certain way, it will burn fewer calories. Avoid getting your body used to any one particular motion. Also, vary the intensity levels in which you workout. Most ellipticals have several pre-set workout programs -- rotate between as many of these as possible.
4. Vary the setting of the elliptical to emphasize different muscles. For example, forward and backward striding emphasize your quads and hamstrings -- while the higher you set the cross ramp, the more you highlight your buttocks.
5. Target different muscle groups. For example, standing up straight without holding onto the handles or using the built-in poles that many machines come with -- while keeping your stomach tight -- works your core. You can hold onto the handles and set the resistance on high to work your legs more. Conversely, if your machine has built-in poles, you can push and pull these more than you use your legs to work your upper body.
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Cancer claims thousands of lives each year. From breast cancer and lung cancer to colon cancer, this disease affects each gender, race and age. Some cancers can be detected early, giving the patient better odds for survival. There are others, however, that cannot be detected until it is too late and treatment is not an option. Therefore, the key is prevention. The best way to prevent this disease is to eat the foods that have been shown to most effectively prevent it.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds contain an antioxidant called lingans that can block and/or suppress cancerous changes in the cells. Flaxseed can be found at your local health food store or in you supermarket.
Blueberries
These tasty treats are not only a great snack, but have the most cancer fighting compounds than any other food in the store. Eating these can help fight all types of cancers.
Tomatoes
Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, helps prevent prostate, stomach, breast and lung cancers. They are most effective when a tomato has been cooked.
Grapes
Antioxidant is the name of the game when it comes to preventing cancer and grapes contain one called resveratrol. This helps prevent damage to the cells before it can take place.
Leafy Green Vegetables
These veggies contain carotenoids that kill the floating free radicals in your body before they have an opportunity to cause cancer growth.
Garlic
The health benefits of garlic are endless, but its cancer fighting benefits are priceless. It is especially effective at preventing lung, colon and skin cancer.
Tags: cancer fighting, food store, helps prevent, this disease
The angular shape produced by quartz's molecular structure focuses healing energy.
Crystals are used by many people to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Different crystals have been ascribed different properties, each with different specific applications. While new applications for the world's many crystals are constantly being developed, the most popular crystal by far is quartz. Quartz is often used to the exclusion of all others, with the practitioner developing an intimate relationship with their personal crystal. The second most popular crystals are those employed in chakra balancing.
Quartz
While every variety of crystal has its own applications, practitioners that use quartz exclusively note that every iteration of quartz crystal has its own unique properties and vibratory energy. Much time and energy can be invested in identifying one's personal crystal. It is important to select a crystal that elicits a strong feeling of desire for it. Once selected, the crystal needs to be cleared or purified, easily effected by leaving it submerged in salt water in moonlight for one night. Once the impurities in the crystal's regular latticework have been removed, it can then be used to focus the practitioner's healing energy. A cleared crystal is used by placing it on or above an area in need of healing and channeling one's positive intentions through it. If the crystal is being used to heal others on a regular basis, it will need to be cleared on a regular basis to remove adventitious negative vibrations.
Amethyst
The size of an amethyst crystal is less important than its purity.
Amethyst has an affinity to the crown chakra and higher consciousness. It helps open the third eye by connecting it to the integrity of the crown chakra's universal outlook. Amethyst is also popular for its ability to increase psychic abilities. The easiest way to use it is to place it beneath one's pillow.
Citrine
Citrine protects the aura from negative outside influences, as well as promoting the transmutation of corporeal energy into astral energy. It is particularly effective in balancing the root and crown chakras. Citrine, worn as a pendant at the level of the heart chakra, is most effective.
Emerald
Emerald establishes a state of equilibrium between the heart and crown chakras. It promotes a state of mental and emotional serenity, preparing the practitioner for higher spiritual practices. Emerald may be worn as a ring or pendant, but is most effective when channeling the active intention of the practitioner. When using emerald, it is important to make your purchase through a reputable supplier, as there are many counterfeits that lack emerald's unique properties.
Tags: crown chakra, crown chakras, have been, healing energy, mental emotional, most effective, most popular
Zen meditation, also known as Zazen, has been practiced by Zen Buddhists for centuries as a way to forget the self, thus opening the mind to the oneness of the universe and achieving enlightenment. Its practice and influence has spread, and today many non-Zen Buddhists use Zazen to achieve tranquility and respite from the stresses of their daily lives.
Instructions
Meditate Using the Zen Technique
1. Wear loose, nonrestrictive clothing.
2. Place your zafu pillow on the floor.
3. Sit down, allowing your knees to touch the floor. There are a variety of proper sitting positions endorsed by Zen practitioners that you can learn about (see Resources below). Choose the one that's most comfortable for you while still allowing for complete body stability.
4. Keep your back straight. This is essential, as it allows for maximum functionality of your diaphragm.
5. Fold your hands in the "cosmic mudra" position (see Resources below).
6. Keep your mouth closed, and press your tongue gently against your palette. This will reduce your need to swallow.
7. Breathe deeply and rhythmically.
8. Center your body gravity in your "hara," located 2 inches below your belly button.
9. Rock your body in circular arcs, decreasing the circumference with each pass. Keep your gravity centered in your hara.
10. Count the number of times you inhale and exhale. When you reach 10, go back and start at 1 again.
11. Let any thoughts that come to your mind run their course. As time goes on, external thoughts will intrude your Zen meditation less and less.
12. Practice, practice, practice. With time, your awareness will deepen and you will begin to experience the physical and psychological benefits of Zazen.
13. Purchase a straightforward introductory book on the subject of Zazen to learn more (see Resources below).
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Braces used to be the great fear of a teenager's life, but today people of all ages elect to have braces in order to improve the position of their teeth. If you are considering braces, it may help to learn the facts about how they work and the options available to you.
Reasons for Getting Braces
Some people need braces because their teeth are crooked; in other cases, dental patients may seek braces to correct an overbite (where the top jaw projects out farther than the bottom) or an underbite (the bottom jaw projects out farther than the top). Braces can correct all of these problems; an orthodontist can help you choose a plan for braces that will work for your specific situation.
How They Work
Braces straighten teeth by applying a specific level of pressure for a longer period of time. In traditional metal braces, the wires push the teeth into the proper position---and the attached rubber bands assist with alignment issues. In other types of braces, these same functions are performed by the specific shaping of the braces. As teeth line up properly, the orthodontist will adjust the braces for further alignment.
Duration
Most people wear braces for about two years, according to the Nemours Foundation web site. After braces, many patients will use a retainer for another length of time, anywhere from a few months to a few years. A retainer may be made out of plastic or metal, and it is used to ensure that your teeth do not stray back into their previously crooked positions once the braces are removed.
Living with Braces
Braces cover a portion of your teeth, so you have to brush your teeth even more carefully when you have them in place. Small portions of food can get stuck in your braces and cause tooth decay, so you should avoid foods that are more likely to do this (such as popcorn, sugary candies and sodas) as much as possible. When you eat a meal, brush your teeth very carefully afterward to clean your teeth and braces of any food debris.
Your braces may cause some pain, particularly right after an adjustment. You may have to eat softer foods for a day or two until you adjust to the new-braces positioning. If your braces break, such as a wire that pops out, see your orthodontist to have it repaired.
Invisible Braces
Invisible braces, such as the ones made by Invisalign, resemble retainers more than traditional braces. They are a plastic form that shapes directly over your teeth and pushes them into position. For adjustments, you simply switch to the next form after a few weeks, under the guidance of your dentist or orthodontist. Many people prefer this type of braces because they are nearly invisible and less painful than metal braces. However, these braces cannot correct all problems, and they can often cost significantly more than traditional braces.
Tags: your teeth, braces because, braces cause, brush your, brush your teeth
The jujube is a little known fruit, but is gaining momentum in Western cultures for its high amount of vitamins and minerals. It has been used for thousands of years in Asian countries by medicine men and herbalists alike. The jujube is not named after the popular candy from childhood, but rather, the other way around.
History
The jujube, also known as ziziphus, is grown and cultivated in India, Russia southern Europe, China and the middle East. The fruit has been used in Chinese medicine for over 4,000 years. In 1908, a plant explorer for the USDA introduced it to North America and soon after, other cultivars were selected from seedlings. In California, the jujube is grown for just a few niche markets.
Nutrition
According to a study published in Volume 103 Issue 2 of the journal, Food Chemistry, jujube contains the potassium, phosphorus, manganese and calcium as the major minerals. There are also high amounts of sodium, zinc, iron and copper. Jujube also contains vitamin c, riboflavin and thiamine. It contains 20 times the amount of vitamin C as citrus fruits. The vitamin and mineral content of the fruit helps to soothe the stomach, ease sore throats, suppress the appetite, support cardiovascular health, enhance metabolism and cleanse the blood vessels.
Amino Acids
The body requires 24 amino acids to function, and the jujube fruit contains 18 of the 24. Amino acids help with the maintenance and formation of the bones, skin, muscle, bloods, hormones, neurotransmitters and enzymes in the body. They are also essential to the building of more that 50,000 proteins made by the human body. Amino acids assist the body in healing wounds and diseases.
Liver
A study was published in the April 21 2009 issue of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in which the protective effects of jujube fruit on the liver were investigated. It was found that the fruit protected the liver against injury in mice. It also helped to eliminate oxidative stress in the liver. Oxidative stress is when free radicals form in the body and interact with cells. Free radicals can lead to many diseases.
Cancer
The water extract of jujube fruit was studied by the Vaccine and Serum Research Institute in Iran. In the study, which was published in the February 2008 issue of Cytotechnology, it was found that this extract inhibited tumor cells, and may have useful compounds for medicinal use. It was especially useful against Jurkat leukemic cells, which are related to leukemia.
Tags: Amino acids, been used, found that, jujube fruit, study published
Some people have allergic reactions to the hand soap made by Palmolive.
Palmolive, which is part of the Colgate-Palmolive Company, makes a variety of personal hygiene and cleanliness products for men, women, children and the home. These range from deodorants to hand and body washes and household cleaning products. However, some of these products may cause allergies in certain people.
Antibacterial Hand Soap
According to Skin Deep, a cosmetic database funded by the Environmental Working Group that monitors the ingredients of products more thoroughly than the companies or the government, a chemical called triclosan in antibacterial hand soap can cause organ system toxicity if regularly exposed to certain people's systems. This can cause sickness in nonreproductive organs, can irritate the skin eyes and lungs and can cause disruption to the endocrine systems of the body. This ingredient was most prevalent in the formula of this antibacterial hand soap produced in 2006, but is still an active ingredient in current Palmolive antibacterial hand soaps.
Palmolive Shave Cream
According to Skin Deep, shaving cream made by Palmolive can cause allergic reactions to certain people's skin due to a number of factors. The fragrance of the shaving cream can cause allergies and immunotoxicity. The sodium silicate in this Palmolive Shave Cream can also cause allergic reactions in some people, as there is strong evidence that this ingredient is a human skin toxicant and can cause people to have an adverse reaction and break out. However, it should be noted that this usually only occurred after someone was exposed to the shaving cream regularly for an extended period of time.
Palmolive Naturals Moisturizer
Palmolive Naturals Moisturizer is known to cause a few different allergic reactions in some of its users, due to a number of chemicals which are used to make it. According to Skin Deep, the fragrance can cause allergic reactions like sneezing and runny eyes and nose. The chemical propylene glycol has been found to cause skin allergies and immune system toxicity in some people, but in very limited and inconclusive amounts.
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Hemorrhage is the loss of blood from any part of the body. In external hemorrhages excessive bleeding occurs and is visible; however, internal hemorrhages that might occur in the kidneys, liver, stomach or intestines are only evident through the presence of blood in the urine. All internal hemorrhages require medical attention, but both internal and external hemorrhages can benefit from traditional medicine alongside natural home remedies to slow bleeding and decrease pain.
Instructions
1. Use cayenne pepper to stop external bleeding and slow internal bleeding. For external hemorrhage, fill the wound with cayenne pepper. The pepper will not hurt at all, but will help to form a scab, stopping bleeding. For internal hemorrhage add cayenne pepper to your food as much as you can handle and whenever possible to help slow bleeding.
2. Take one or two capsules of Yunnan Baiyao three times a day to slow bleeding after surgery, childbirth or even during excessive menstrual bleeding. You can also break open the capsules and apply the powder to external hemorrhages to stop bleeding. This ancient Chinese herb is a great emergency remedy; however; you should see your doctor as soon as possible after noticing a hemorrhage. This herbal remedy should not be used during pregnancy.
3. Ease internal bleeding, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding ulcers and other types of hemorrhage with phosphorus supplements. Because excessive amounts of phosphorus can be harmful, speak to your naturopath or doctor about a supplement suited to your needs. To supplement phosphorus naturally, include plenty yogurt, fish, eggs and nuts in your regular diet.
4. Drink lots of fresh alfalfa juice, which can be made easily in the blender by simply adding the fresh herbs to a bit of water and blending. Alfalfa is used in many home remedies because it is naturally rich in vitamins and minerals the body needs to strengthen blood vessels and help in blood clotting. Drinking alfalfa juice daily can be a preventative measure for those who suffer from bleeding disorders and hemorrhage.
Did you know you can get the free weight watchers points system for one full week? Yes, weight watcher is offering a full week on their diet plan free to all new potential members. By far one of the most recognizable diet programs available today, this company's has a track record of success when it comes to weight loss. By doing a simple google search on the term "weight watchers" you will witness countless success stories from people who swear by their weight loss plan. If you are looking to lose a couple of pounds or if you have a significant amount of weight to lose, here are the steps to try this program out for free
Instructions
1. In your browser type in http://www.weightwatchers.com/freetrial or copy the link here and paste it into your browser
2. Complete the online form for the Free Weight Watchers Points System. You will need to enter your credit card information.
3. Remember to cancel your subscription before the free trial period ends (midnight Eastern Standard Time on the 7th day of your free trial). You can cancel by email or by U.S. mail; please see www.weightwatchers.com/cancel for details.
4. Have funds available in your account if you choose to keep the program after the free weight watchers points system trial offer
5. Join the support forum to keep you on track with the program. And visit blogs like http://www.weightwatchersblogger.com for emotional support and motivation. Good luck to you!