Irish Folk Remedies

Irish Folk Remedies

Given the unconventional--and sometimes unpalatable--nature of some Irish folk remedies, Ireland's ancient cures for medical ailments may seem more unpleasant than the maladies they were intended to treat. Many Irish folk remedies involve the use of flowers, herbs, animal body parts and family 'charms'--secret chants or a specific series of words uttered for particular situations.

Origins

According to a 2008 article published in Irish American magazine, Ireland's folk remedies grew out of the belief that injuries and illnesses were the result of unkindness or disrespect directed toward faerie folk. Disturbing a faerie activity, such as building a structure in a faerie pathway, was also thought to cause maladies. In addition, it was believed that any curative powers possessed by doctors and healers came from the faeries themselves. Until the 19th century, when traditional medicine became more widely accepted, Irish folk remedies were the preferred method for treating a wide range of trivial and serious ailments affecting humans and animals alike.

Features

Irish folk remedies often resulted from a combination of common sense, practical observations and mystical beliefs. Some remedies date back to early or pre-Christian times and reflect thinking rooted more in superstition rather than rational medical practices. Examples of strange and unusual folk remedies include boiling sheep droppings in milk to cure whooping cough and tying a child up with the rope used to hang an innocent man as a means of curing childhood dropsy (what we know today as edema, the collecting of fluid in body tissues).

Folk Remedies For Common Ailments

Many Irish folk remedies address common ailments such as colds, earaches, stomachaches, toothaches and dysentery.

Popular remedies include:

• To cure a cold, boil together hazel-buds, dandelion, chickweed, wood sorrel and oatmeal, and drink the mixture morning and evening.

• Black sheep wool placed in the ear alleviates earaches.

• Tying a cluster of mint leaves around the wrist soothes stomach disorders.

• Toothaches can be avoided by never shaving on Sunday. In the case of an existing toothache, rubbing the tooth of a dead horse over the jaw lessens the pain.

• Pounding together two plants, woodbine and maiden-hare, then boiling them in new milk along with oatmeal will cure dysentery when ingested three times daily.

Unusual Ailments and Remedies

There is an Irish folk remedy for just about anything, including the bite of a mad dog, impure blood and a stitch in the side of the body. If bitten by a dog, a touch from the hand of seventh son can help heal the wound. Drinking a mixture of boiled down carrot juice will purify blood. A stitch in the side will ease when the area is rubbed with unsalted butter and the sign of the cross is made over the area seven times.

Folk Remedies Today

Although much less common than in centuries past, folk medicine has not completely died out in Ireland. Some aspects of folk remedies and cures are still used today due to burgeoning 'New Age' interest in natural treatments and holistic medicine.

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Write A Letter Requesting Medicare To Pay For Lap Band Surgery

Lap band surgery has made it possible for morbidly obese individuals to reclaim their lives and lose weight when other methods have failed. As of 2006, Medicare has acknowledged this as a procedure worth covering. People looking to fund this expensive procedure through Medicare should allow a fair amount of time for preparation. Individuals under 65 must establish qualification for coverage, especially for bariatric surgeries.

Instructions

1. Determine eligibility for the Medicare program. Contact the local branch of CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) or the Department of Human Services. General coverage criteria can be found on their Web sites, but contacting an agent will ensure thorough understanding of criteria and procedure.

2. Choose a surgeon or surgical center for the procedure. This is part of the qualifying process, as only Medicare-approved facilities will be covered for lap band surgery. In accordance with Medicare criteria, the American College of Surgeons must classify the facility as a Level 1 Bariatric Surgery Center. Otherwise, the American Society for Bariatric Surgery must deem the facility a Center of Excellence.

3. Send a letter to Medicare, following initial qualification, outlining the criteria that have been met to qualify for lap band coverage. These include:

- Having a BMI (Body Mass Index) of at least 35

- A co-morbidity that is a direct result of being overweight (heart conditions, diabetes, etc.)

- Detailed accounts of previous weight loss attempts that did not meet with success

4. Back up any claims made in the letter with concrete evidence. This can include:

- A referral from a primary care physician stating that the procedure has been deemed a medical necessity for the sake of the patient's health

- Receipts from weight loss centers, health clubs, etc., to indicate that attempts have been made to lose weight and that those attempts brought no results

5. Make a good case. Medicare coverage of this procedure been in effect since 2006. It is still considered on a patient-by-patient basis. Coverage is never a guarantee.

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Effects Of Tattoo Removal

Tattoos, once viewed as permanent artwork on the body, can be removed. Many people who chose to get tattoos when they were young find themselves in positions, either personal or work related, where their tattoos have become a detriment to their lives. Tattoo removal has some side effects that should be considered.

Scarring

While the tattoo itself may be gone, you may be left with a permanent mark caused by the damage done to the skin, both from the removal method and the original inking procedure. In some cases, the scar may be a faded image of the tattoo itself if not all the ink could be removed. Certain methods, like dermabrasion, are more likely to leave scars.

Blistering

Blistering and burning are both potential side effects of using lasers for tattoo removals. In most cases, the burning and blistering is short-lived and generally is not visible after six months or less.

Infection

Infections are rare, but possible. Depending on the method chosen for tattoo removal, you may be told to apply an antibiotic salve to the affected area. This is to help reduce the risk of infection.

Pigmentation Loss

While not common, it is possible for the skin around the tattoo to be effected by the tattoo removal, and the skin may turn lighter than the surrounding skin. This may or may not be permanent.

Swelling

Swelling is normally short-lived and occurs immediately after removal procedures. In most cases, applying cold packs or ice helps provide relief.

Scabbing

Just like any other time you cause injury to your skin, you may develop scabbing at the sight of the tattoo removal. The scabbing generally does not leave any permanent damage and rarely lasts longer than two weeks.

Self Esteem

On the positive side, many people report higher self esteem, especially if the tattoo that was removed was a reminder of a past ill-fated relationship or a gang membership.

Tags: most cases, side effects, tattoo itself

Herniated Disc With Leg Pain

The majority of patients that have a herniated disc in the lumbar spine suffer from leg pain. When a patient has a herniated disc, the padding that sits in the middle of the vertebrae is moved from its regular position. A herniated disc would not pose a problem if it didn't place the spinal nerves so close to the edge of the spinal discs.

Causes

As the herniated disc moves out of place, the nerves become strained and cause pain in the legs. A herniated disc can occur after an accident or fall, or can happen over a period of time because of repeated strain of the spine.

Symptoms

As the spinal cord and nerves become compacted, they do not work properly. This means that the typical signals that are sent from the compacted nerves do not get sent at all. Common symptoms of a herniated disc in the lumbar region involve electric shock pain in one or both legs, numbness and tingling in the leg, and weakness in the leg muscles. A herniated disc in the lumbar region can also involve problems in the foot because of nerve impingement.

Diagnosis

A doctor will conduct a medical exam to help determine if you have a herniated disc. However, a physical exam will usually not be enough to receive treatment. An MRI will most likely be prescribed to determine the location of the herniated disc and see if there is any problem with the spinal cord. It is important for a doctor to review the MRI results to determine if there is an underlying cause, such as spinal degeneration that may pose a risk for more discs to become herniated.

Treatment

Treatment of a herniated disc will greatly depend upon the patient's age, level of activity and symptoms. Physical therapy may be included in the treatment to help a patient strengthen the lower back, as well as improve how he moves, lifts and engages in other activity. Physical therapy can help reduce the strain on the spine and reduce leg pain. A physician might also prescribe an anti-inflammatory prescription to help reduce the inflammation surrounding the nerves, thereby reducing pain in the back and leg. In some cases, a physician will inject an epidural steroid in the nerves surrounding the spine to help relieve pain in the back and legs.

Advanced Solutions

Surgical avenues may have to be taken when a herniated disc with leg pain does not get better through regular treatment options. If a patient has a severe case of weakness in the leg, fusion or other spine surgery may be considered. The location of the herniated disc will decide the type of surgical technique that will be required.

Tags: herniated disc, disc lumbar, herniated disc lumbar, disc lumbar region, disc will, have herniated, have herniated disc

Eat With False Teeth

The key to being able to eat with false teeth is having your teeth fit your mouth and gums properly. Any gaps that exist between the dentures and your gums can make for an uncomfortable dining experience.

Instructions

Get a Good Fit

1. Pay attention to how your dentures fit your mouth. If you feel any looseness or find your teeth uncomfortable; contact your dentist immediately.

2. Have your dentures relined or replaced when they no longer fit. Dentures should be reevaluated every year for a fit that doesn’t impact your eating habits.

3. Use a good denture adhesive if you plan on eating foods that would normally tug at natural teeth. Apples, corn on the cob and other foods that require a chomping tooth action require that adhesive be used to hold the false teeth into place.

4. Cut your foods into bite size pieces if your false teeth are not perfectly fitted. This will make chewing much easier and less stressful on the fit of your dentures.

Tags: false teeth, your dentures, dentures your, foods that, your mouth

Problems With Cataract Patients After Lasik Surgery

While Lasik surgery is becoming increasingly commonplace, there nevertheless are some items to consider before undergoing the procedure. Although there are no specific complications involving having Lasik surgery performed if you are currently suffering from cataracts, the procedure might make your later cataract surgery more difficult than necessary.

Lasik

Lasik is a surgical procedure designed to correct near and farsightedness. According to information from the FDA, Lasik is performed by reshaping the cornea of the eye to change its ability to focus on objects at varying distances. Complications of Lasik include excessively dry eyes, halos around light sources and occasional double vision.

Cataracts and Lasik

According to information from both the FDA and the USAEyes surgical certification board, there is no outright reason that makes Lasik eye surgery impossible for someone currently suffering from cataracts. Having Lasik surgery prior to cataract surgery results in the cataract surgery being more difficult, but not impossible.

Complications

The main complication in having Lasik prior to cataract surgery is that during the cataract surgery, the cataract-infected lens will be removed and replaced with a man-made lens made of plastic or silicone. While gauging the required strength of the replacement lens of a "normal" eye is a fairly routine procedure, gauging the required strength of a lens to replace an eye that has already been subjected to Lasik is much more difficult. According to the site LasikComplications.com, the reshaped cornea (from Lasik surgery) makes it more difficult to find a man-made lens that will achieve the desired result.

Solution

The easiest solution to this problem is to schedule cataract treatment prior to any kind of Lasik eye surgery. This will circumvent the entire issue, allowing both procedures to function together in tandem. Additionally, having Lasik after cataract surgery can be beneficial, because while cataract surgery can compensate for near and farsightedness, it cannot do anything for individuals with an astigmatism (where the cornea of the eye is curved abnormally, resulting in blurred vision) -- but Lasik can.

Considerations

If you insist on having Lasik performed as soon as possible, some apt advice comes from the USAEyes Surgeon Certification Center: Ensure an optimal experience by selecting a surgeon who has experience in both Lasik and cataract surgery, or by selecting a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing cataract surgery on individuals who have previously had Lasik. This will help to mitigate risk in the event that you are otherwise unable to undergo these procedures in the proper order.

Tags: cataract surgery, Lasik surgery, having Lasik, more difficult, According information, According information from

What Are The Treatments For Late Stage Lyme Disease Joint Pain

Lyme Disease is an inflammatory disease that's spread through deer tick bites. Late stage Lyme Disease is chronic and persistent. It's also called Stage 3, or tertiary Lyme Disease.

Symptoms

Late stage Lyme Disease (LD) is more severe than early stage, and it's also potentially debilitating. Symptoms of late stage LD can crop up weeks, months or, in some cases, years after a tick bite. Some of the symptoms of late stage LD include fatigue, headaches, sleep disorders, chronic arthritis, joint inflammation in the knees and other joints and memory loss. More severe symptoms include:

• Decreased consciousness

• Confusion

• Numbness and tingling

• Abnormal sensitivity to light

Treatment & Early Diagnosis

If LD is diagnosed early, it's treated with antibiotics and pretty easily cured. And most of the time, even late stage LD can be treated effectively. But part of the problem with LD is the way the disease progresses or gets worse, and the way people respond to treatment can vary from person to person; which can make treatment more challenging. It also means some people can have symptoms that linger for months or even years following treatment. Also, it's important to note that in rare instances, LD can cause permanent damage. The crucial thing about LD is to get treatment immediately after being bitten by a tick; the longer treatment is delayed, the worse the disease can be.

Late Stage Joint Pain & Treatment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), after several months, approximately 60 percent of people who don't get treatment for the infection will begin to have sporadic bouts of arthritis, with severe joint pain and swelling. The large joints are the ones that are most often affected, particularly the knees.

There are three oral antibiotics that are recommended to treat virtually all the symptoms of LD, including late stage---doxycycline, amoxicillin and ceftin. For joint pain and arthritis from late stage LD, doctors usually prescribe medicine that reduces swelling and pain. And if necessary, excess fluid can be drained from the affected joints.

Tags: Lyme Disease, late stage, stage Lyme, stage Lyme Disease

Twoday Body Cleanse

Proponents of cleanses believe they can help rid the body of toxins that create a lack of energy, dull-looking skin and hair, and keep our bodies from performing at their optimal levels. You may want to try a two-day body cleanse when you are feeling bloated from eating too many processed foods, or even after the holidays when sugar, alcohol and rich foods have been consumed. A two-day body cleanse is easier to do than some of the longer cleanses, prompting you to stick with it.

Before the Cleanse

Before starting any cleanse or juice fast, start limiting foods that are not healthy, such as refined or processed foods, animal products, sugar and fatty foods. Weaning yourself off foods that do not offer health benefits may make the two-day body cleanse easier to stick with, because you may have fewer withdrawal symptoms or headaches.

Fasting is believed by some to rid the body of toxins through losing body fat. Since the body must metabolize fat during a cleanse, toxins may be released into the system and eliminated through urine or sweat. Getting rid of these toxins may lead to improved organ function, restored energy levels and an overall improvement of health.

During the Cleanse

During the two-day body cleanse, consume nothing but natural, raw fruits and vegetables in their juice form. You may need to purchase a juicer, since it can use the entire fruit or vegetable to give you all the vitamins, antioxidants and minerals necessary, as well as the fiber from the skins.

Since your calorie intake will be low, rest is suggested during the cleanse to conserve energy. Side effects of a two-day cleanse can include low blood pressure, hunger, dizziness or fainting, since the body is not consuming whole food. Keeping a cleanse to two days is beneficial yet safer for the body than a longer cleanse. There may be a lower risk of suffering from malnutrition or deficiencies in vitamins or minerals.

Drink between 32 and 64 ounces of fresh juice each day of the cleanse, using raw fruits and vegetables such as carrots, cranberries, beets, apples, cabbage and celery. Citrus fruits should be avoided, since they metabolize differently within the body. In addition to the juice, drink 64 ounces of room-temperature water to flush out toxins.

After the Cleanse

Once the two-day body cleanse is over, begin introducing foods back into the body slowly to avoid diarrhea and other digestive issues. The first day after the cleanse, incorporate pieces of whole fruit in addition to water. The second day should include steamed, nonstarchy vegetables, like spinach, celery, zucchini or eggplant. On the third day, include rice and salads. The fourth, fifth, and sixth days should have eggs, proteins and grains. After a week of incorporating healthier food choices into the diet, energy may increase, as well as feelings of alertness and overall health.

Tags: two-day body, two-day body cleanse, body cleanse, body cleanse, body cleanse easier, body toxins, cleanse easier

Use Alternative Treatments For An Abscess

An abscess is an infected area of the skin that has been walled off by the body so the infection stays in one location. This is a survival mechanism the body uses to protect itself from widespread infection. Such areas can cause pain, pressure and irritation, and appear red or dark pink. The symptoms will not be relieved until the infection is expelled through the skin. An abscess can be a signal of a deeper-rooted problem in the body. If you are prone to this condition, you could have a weak immune system, poor nutrition, bowel infection or diabetes. There are many alternative avenues of treatment designed to heal your body of abscesses.

Instructions

1. Supplement your diet with zinc and vitamin C, two substances that are known to stimulate the immune system. Because of a possible bowel infection associated with the abscess, some health care professionals prescribe a vitamin C flush, which means taking high doses of this vitamin, to the point of bowel tolerance. Adding vitamins A and E to your diet will contribute to healing the abscess after the infectious substance has been removed.

2. Make a compress for your abscess. Chinese medicine believes abscesses are caused by an overabundance of body heat, which may be caused by infection. A compress is made from the herbs chamomile, sage or thyme to draw out the heat of the abscess and relieve pain. Change the compress three to four times a day.

3. Use lachesis as a homeopathic treatment if your abscess has a bluish/purplish color. Professional homeopaths believe that abscesses may be a symptom of some other, more acute ill in the body. The homeopathic treatment is to introduce an extremely diluted substance that would produce the same symptoms in a healthy person. This removes the toxic effect of the original malady.

4. Change your diet. If you eat a lot of junk food that consists of white flour, white sugar, fatty foods, fried foods and simple carbohydrates, you must reduce or eliminate them. Eat lean meats, vegetables, fruits and whole grains and nuts, and you will shortly see an improvement in your body's production of abscesses.

5. Inhale essential oils. These oils are very concentrated; therefore, you only need a few drops on a cloth. Place them on your pillow at night so you can inhale them while you sleep. The essential oils that are helpful for abscesses are clary sage, lavender, patchouli, rose and rosewood. A compress may also be made from these essential oils; however, remember to dilute them by adding only a drop or two to a cup of water.

6. Take an herbal remedy for your abscess. Herbs that have been shown to be helpful in remedying abscesses include burdock, German chamomile, slippery elm and wild yam. These substances are generally safe, with no side effects. However, the amount you use should be prescribed by a health-care professional.

7. Drink a small amount of water containing the essence of poke root or dagger hakes. They can sometimes be found in a cream form, so you can rub them directly onto the abscess. Flower essences heal on the emotional and mental level, their vibrations conforming to the idea that illness is a symptom of a negative belief system.

Tags: essential oils, your abscess, your diet, bowel infection, homeopathic treatment, immune system, made from

Homeopathic Remedies For Cystitis

The three philosophies that homeopathy is based on are: minimum dose; like cures like; and single remedy. Each of these philosophy's ultimate goal is to trigger the body's own healing powers using minerals, herbs or elements in minute, highly potent doses. Cystitis is typically caused by an infection of the bladder, which causes inflammation and pain. Homeopathic remedies can help alleviate the symptoms associated with cystitis safely and effectively.

Cantharis

For cystitis that is described as a burning pain coupled with the constant urge to urinate, the remedy cantharis is recommended. Cantharis is appropriate when the individual is restless, frequently irritable--particularly when he is ill--and sometimes displays anger that can develop into a violent rage. His physical symptoms typically improve when he is kept warm. During the evening, symptoms tend to worsen if he has coffee or cold drinks.

Nux vomica

When an individual suffers cystitis symptoms that include spasm-type pain in the bladder and a nagging urge to urinate, Nux vomica is typically prescribed. Nux vomica is appropriate when the individual is driven, stressed and is a workaholic. Physical symptoms will improve when she is kept warm and is well-rested, and they tend to worsen when she is mentally fatigued, if she eats spicy foods or ingests stimulants such as coffee.

Berberis

Berberis might be taken when the symptoms can be described as a sharp, burning pain that radiates outward. Berberis is appropriate when the individual is lethargic and listless and has trouble concentrating. Physical symptoms will tend to improve after urinating, but worsen when urinating.

Lilium

Lilium is indicated when pain is stinging and burning during and after urination. The sufferer will also constantly feel the need to urinate to little or no avail. Lilium is appropriate when personality symptoms indicate an individual who is hurried, often impatient, tends to try to accomplish too many things at once, and is remorseful. Physical symptoms will improve when the person is in cool, fresh air and tend to worsen when in warm surroundings and if he is jarred or moved unexpectedly

Causticum

This might be prescribed when symptoms include a strong desire to urinate but an inability to do so. Causticum is appropriate when the personality symptoms are of a serious, introspective person, he tends to be absent-minded and prone to irrational fears, which instills in him a need for compulsive-type behavior. Physical symptoms generally improve when he is kept warm or drinking cold beverages and tend to worsen when he is in arid, cold temperatures, during the evening and if he drinks coffee.

Warnings

Never self-prescribe homeopathic remedies; consult a licensed homeopath in your area for appropriate remedies and dosages.

If there is blood in the urine, a high fever or symptoms last more than 24 to 36 hours, see a health care practitioner.

This information is not meant to replace professional medical advice, it is for informational purposes only.

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Herbs For Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a very serious disease on which your chances of survival will greatly improve with the proper treatment. Though herbal supplements can assist you in preventing and recovery from lung cancer, they are not a substitute for traditional treatment. Discuss herbal supplements with your doctor before taking them.

Ginseng

Ginseng is comes from a tan root that is found in both America and Asia. The Chinese have long used the herb as a cure-all with the thought it brings strength and wisdom to those who take it. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies on ginseng have yielded positive results for people with cancer. These studies suggest that people who take ginseng are less likely to develop lung cancer. However, more studies are necessary to determine the exact function of ginseng and how it is helpful.

Green Tea

Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that help the body reduce toxins. While some studies suggest that these antioxidants can help halt the growth of cancerous cells in lung cancer, the University of Maryland Medical Center says these studies have presented conflicting results. One study proved that a fermented variation of green tea decreased risk of lung cancer, while a second study revealed that green tea actually increased the risk of lung cancer. The UM Medical Center suggests more testing is necessary about the efficacy of green tea on lung cancer.

Quercetin

Quercetin is derived from flavonoids, the pigments that give plants color. When used as a supplement, quercetin works as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine. Since people who eat a lot of fruit and vegetables are usually at a lower risk of developing cancer, the same link is made with those who take quercetin. In clinical trials, quercetin has been proved to slow down cancer growth in the lungs. Once again, these results are based on lab results and more evidence is required for human results.

Tags: lung cancer, Medical Center, herbal supplements, Maryland Medical, Maryland Medical Center, risk lung, risk lung cancer

Avoid Getting Seasick

Traveling by sea can be a safe and fun way to get wherever you're going. Don't let seasickness symptoms get in your way.

Seasickness is a kind of motion sickness many people experience when the rocking motion of a boat or ship causes visual disorientation, resulting in symptoms like nausea, dizziness, headaches and vomiting. Like other kinds of motion sickness, seasickness occurs when the motion of a conveyance and its relationship relative to nearby objects makes a person's surroundings seem to be in constant motion, throwing off his or her natural equilibrium. Humans normally stabilize this equilibrium instinctively by steadying their center of gravity using stationary visual cues.

Instructions

1. Ask your doctor to recommend an effective seasickness medication before traveling if you know you're prone to seasickness or motion sickness in general. Many over-the-counter treatments are available in the form of antihistamines like diphenhydramine and dimenhydrinate, and some prescription drugs like scopolamine are available in patch form. Herbal supplements like ginger capsules have also proven effective in combating seasickness symptoms before they appear.

2. Focus on the horizon or a fixed object off in the distance. The horizon is a reliable and constant point of reference that can help your body adjust to the instability of your surrounding environment, but don't strain too hard to concentrate on it or your seasickness may get worse. Instead keep your eyes steady but relaxed, allowing them to adjust to the unfamiliar motion gradually.

3. Avoid eating anything that might upset your stomach like heavy, greasy or spicy foods, and keep alcohol consumption to a minimum. Avoid smoking and other passengers' secondhand smoke, and abstain from demanding physical activities that may cause overexertion or dehydration.

4. Drink lots of water and eat dry crackers in frequent but moderate amounts to help settle your stomach and keep hydrated.

5. Lie down somewhere quiet and comfortable and try to relax. If traveling on a cruise ship, try to reserve a cabin as close to the middle of the ship and the surface of the water as possible, as these areas experience less of the rocking that leads to seasickness.

Tags: motion sickness, seasickness symptoms, your stomach

Prevent Rickets

Rickets is the common name for a condition where the bones have become soft and weakened, usually because of a lack of vitamin D. Because it is related to a vitamin deficiency, rickets is easily prevented by ensuring that adequate amounts of vitamin D are present in the body. Vitamin D is essential for absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital bone-strengthening nutrients. If vitamin D is not present to help the body absorb these minerals, the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream drop. The body responds by leeching these nutrients from the bones, causing them to soften and become weak. While some forms of rickets are genetic and others are related to gastrointestinal disorders such as celiac disease and lactose intolerance, most risk factors for rickets can be easily minimized by ensuring that there appropriate amounts of vitamin D (as well as calcium and phosphorus) in the body.

Instructions

Steps You Can Take to Prevent Rickets

1. Use a vitamin D supplement, especially with children. Young children have the highest risk for developing rickets because of the rapid pace of bone growth during the first few years. Drinking 2 to 3 glasses of vitamin D fortified milk will provide enough of the nutrient for proper bone growth. Infants who are breastfed exclusively are also at risk because breast milk contains very little vitamin D. Mothers who breastfeed should talk to a doctor about adding a vitamin D supplement (usually in the form of drops) to the baby's diet.

2. Catch some rays. Our skin produces vitamin D in response to sunlight, so spending some time in the sun will help prevent a deficiency. However, infants and young children should avoid direct sunlight or wear sunscreen to avoid potential skin damage from sunburn. Sunscreen prevents the production of vitamin D through the skin, so check with a doctor to be sure your child is getting enough vitamin D through diet. Teenagers and adults usually get enough sun for adequate vitamin D production.

3. Enjoy some dairy. Milk products fortified with vitamin D are a good dietary source of the nutrient.

4. Get enough calcium and phosphorus in your diet. Dairy products are high in these nutrients as well, as are leafy green vegetables, fortified juices, and cereals.

5. People who do not consume dairy products (due to a strict vegetarian diet or lactose intolerance) should discuss the potential need for a supplement with their doctor. Other disorders which interfere with the absorption of vitamin D (such as celiac disease) may also create the need for a supplement or other additional treatment.

Tags: calcium phosphorus, amounts vitamin, bone growth, celiac disease, ensuring that

Herbal Treatment For A Herniated Disc

A herniated disk occurs when the outer ring of an intervertebral disk suffers and the softer inner layer protrudes out through the opening. When this occurs you will generally experience pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in the back, arms and legs. The main cause of a herniated disk is age but it can be the result of trauma to the back, such as with a sports injury. There are several herbal treatments for this condition.

Willow Bark

Reduce the inflammation with a treatment of willow bark. This herb can be taken in three different forms and can be found at any health food store. To take willow bark as a tea, boil 1 to 2 teaspoons of the dried herb in 8 ounces of water. Allow the liquid to steep for 30 minutes. Drain out all of the leaves, and sip it like you would regular tea. Drink three to four cups a day for best results. If you prefer to take a tablet, you can take 60 to 240 milligrams of the powdered herb once a day, which is available in capsule form. The last method is in oil form. Take 4 to 6 milliliters of the tincture three times per day.

Topical Cayenne Pepper

Rub topical cayenne pepper on the affected area of your back. Cayenne pepper rubs can help ease the pain at the site of the herniation. The topical cream can be found in most health food stores and will help enhance any pain relievers you may be taking for the condition. Use the cream several times a day or as needed for pain. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the cream, and be sure to keep it away from your eyes.

Colchicine

Take colchicine in place of aspirin for pain. Colchicine comes from the dried corns and seeds in the center of the autumn crocus flower. These are crushed to make a pale, yellow powder, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory treatment. Take two 0.6-milligram tablets every two hours as needed for pain. This herb is frequently used in place of aspirin, which has been known to irritate the stomach. Colchicine is a safer alternative to analgesics. You can purchase colchicine at most major drug stores and health food stores.

Turmeric

Take 400 to 600 milligrams of turmeric three times a day to help ease the inflammation of a herniated disk. This treatment will increase circulation and help to ease lower back pain. Turmeric powder is often used as a tea by boiling 1 teaspoon of turmeric in 8 ounces of water. In Japan, the tea is used to treat stomach ailments as well as to prevent aches and pains. Turmeric that is used for treatment can be purchased at your local health food store or natural food cooperative.

Tags: health food, help ease, herniated disk, food store, food stores, health food store

Tell Your Husband You Are Pregnant With Twins

Did your last prenatal visit leave you with a surprise you hadn’t anticipated? Finding out you’re pregnant with twins can be both joyful and stressful. You may have conflicting feelings regarding your readiness for the awesome feat of raising twins. Breaking the news to your husband can add a new dynamic to the situation. Take the time to prepare yourself to tell your husband you’re pregnant with twins, to help alleviate any apprehension you may feel.

Instructions

1. Take your husband’s personality and family background into consideration when coordinating break the news. A husband from a large family that includes twins may take the news much differently than a husband who is an only child. A soft-spoken, timid husband may take the news much differently than a loud, boisterous husband. Adjust your approach to fit the needs of your household situation.

2. Set aside personal time to discuss the good news with your husband. Quiet time may be necessary in order to help ready yourself to deliver the life-changing news, and to help ease your husband into the idea of twins. Adjust your schedule to make room for the important disclosure. Although your husband may have been aware of your pregnancy, it may still be a shock that you’re carrying twins.

3. Show your husband the ultrasound pictures. This is often the best approach if you’re at a loss for words or are unsure of your husband’s reaction. Relax as you let the vivid ultrasound pictures provide all the evidence of the impending birth of your twins. Present the pictures when he gets home and brace yourself for his reactions. Try not to let your facial expressions give away the big surprise.

4. Allow your husband to have his own reaction first. Since you’ve had time to express your inner emotions, it’s especially important to give your husband time to express his. Your husband may feel overwhelmed or even terrified by your pregnancy news. Don’t hound him for a favorable reaction. Let him have time to internalize his own emotions instead of giving him an opinion. Remember, your husband will have to adjust to the idea of you being pregnant with twins.

5. Provide a shoulder to lean on if necessary. You may find that you need to be a source of comfort for your husband as he learns of your new family dynamic. Don’t hold this against your husband. Use this time to talk about fears as well as expectations regarding the pregnancy. Realize that both of you will undergo changes while you adjust to the pregnancy.

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Care For The Mentally Handicapped

Caring for a loved one who is mentally challenging is an awesome responsibility. Mental handicaps range from mild to severe in nature. It is important to understand as fully as possible the nature and extent of the person's illness in order to provide the best care possible. Establishing and implementing a plan of action is vital to being a successful caregiver.

Instructions

1. Research to gain as much knowledge as possible regarding your loved one's particular mental handicap. Set up information-gathering sessions with health professionals who specialize in your area of concern. Garner more information from reputable medical journals you can access through university libraries. Do this periodically as more studies are performed. Make sure to have professionals clarify anything you don't understand.

2. Determine the best living situation for your loved one. There are many considerations to consider, including age, degree of handicap, wishes of the person and financial concerns. Take your time and seek the advice of mental health professionals, family and close friends. Don't feel obligated to make the decision on your own. If you will be housing your loved one outside of your home, make sure to spend as much time as possible in the environment you are considering to get a clear picture of what his life will be like there.

3. Seek government assistance. Caring for a mentally challenged individual is costly and there may be programs in your local community that can help with financial concerns as well other issues. Make an appointment with your local social service agency to find out what's available. Again, you will want to check periodically as programs are often implemented, modified or even discontinued.

4. Develop your support team. It is important not to try to handle the care of the person entirely by yourself. Involve physicians and other health care workers, your family and friends in providing the best care possible. Listen and weigh advice before making critical decisions.

5. Keep abreast of possible treatments and medications. Document daily what happens when you loved one is on a particular treatment plan so you can discuss this with her doctors. Be ready to try different treatment strategies when one fails or becomes ineffective.

6. Prepare the living environment of the mentally handicapped so as to aid in their success. Remove any objects they may be unable to safely handle. Allow the individual to make decisions regarding decor and furniture to the extent possible.

7. Seek to "normalize" the mentally challenged's life as much as possible. Give him tasks he can accomplish and allow him to wash, dress and feed himself to whatever extent feasible. Remember that the mentally challenged may learn exceptionally slowly and often require breaking tasks down into small parts. Allow for much repetition and be prepared for having to "re-teach" as necessary.

8. Note patterns of behavior exhibited by the mentally challenged in order to defuse frustrations as much as possible. Remove your loved one from an environment that vexes him, particularly when he is learning a new task. Watch for significant patterns in mood--for example, he might become irritated, excited or exhibit distress at a particular point in the day. You can often help him cope with these feelings and behaviors when you know they are coming.

9. Get specialized education for the mentally challenged. If a child it may be possible for your loved one to attend a public school with resources for teaching the handicapped. You may want to seek out other learning facilities in your locale prior to making a decision. If your loved one is over 18 you will probably still want to seek out educational opportunities. Check with your local department of education as well as social services for guidance.

10. Petition for political support. Let political figures know if you believe your city or town can better provide for the mentally disabled than it is currently doing. Join activist groups to help get the resources your loved one and many others in similar situations need. Attend political events and rallies and try to meet with elected officials in person. Writing letters and editorials can also be effective.

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Triphala Side Effects

Triphala Side Effects

As Western medicine becomes more complicated and less accessible to the average consumer, people are turning to older forms of healing. Triphala is a staple of Ayurvedic medicine which has been practiced in India and the Middle East for centuries. It has a wide range of healing properties, and almost no side effects.

What Is Triphala?

The word "triphala" means three fruits, and it refers to those from which triphala is made. Amalaki, (Embelica officinalis), bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica) and haritaki (Terminalia chebula) are the fruits from trees that grow in India and the Middle East.

How Triphala Is Made

The fruits of the amalaki, bibhitaki and haritaki trees are harvested, dried, ground and blended into a powder that can be mixed with water, brewed as a tea or taken in tablet or capsule form.

Uses of Triphala

Triphala has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as an aid to digestion, and an internal body cleanse. The powder can also be mixed with water into a thick paste and applied externally to clear rashes and ease the pain of sunburn. When mixed with boiling water and allowed to cool thoroughly, triphala is used as an eye-wash and is believed to help alleviate the symptoms of cataracts, glaucoma and conjunctivitus.

Benefits

A December 2005 report in the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research done by the Radiation and Cancer Biology Laboratory at Jawaharlal Nehru University states that triphala was found to be effective in reducing the incidents of tumors in animals. It was also shown to have a significant and beneficial effect on increasing antioxidants.

Side Effects

Triphala's only side effects are a possible increase in gastrointestinal gas and diarrhea when first used. For that reason, it is not recommended for use by women who are pregnant or nursing. As of 2009, triphala has not been either suspected or proven to have toxic side effects or contraindications with any prescribed western medications.

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Shock Wave Therapy For Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toe. It is a common problem for runners, and it causes pain in the heel and sometimes the arch of the foot. If plantar fasciitis symptoms do not improve after six months of traditional physical therapy techniques, physicians may prescribe extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT).

History

The ESWT technique comes from lithotripsy, a technique that uses sound waves to break up kidney stones that are too large to be passed. The use of sound waves to treat problems with the bones, joints, muscles and connective tissues ("musculoskeletal" problems) was developed in Europe in the early 1990s, and plantar fasciitis was the first musculoskeletal problem for which the FDA approved treatment with ESWT.

Features

ESWT for plantar fasciitis uses shock waves to cause tiny injuries within the plantar fascia in order to stimulate healing, although no one is certain exactly how it works. The treatment is noninvasive and uses a probe that is gently rubbed over the affected area.

ESWT can use either high-frequency or low-frequency shock waves. Therapy with high-frequency shock waves may only require one treatment session, while low-frequency ESWT usually requires repeated visits. Your physician will decide how many treatments to use. ESWT can be done in the doctor's office and doesn't require any anesthesia.

ESWT is generally used for patients whose plantar fasciitis symptoms have not improved after six months or more traditional therapy. ESWT is used as an alternative to surgery.

Alternatives

Traditional therapy for plantar fasciitis can include rest, applying ice to the plantar fascia, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and using exercises to stretch the calves and Achilles tendon or strengthen the muscles in the foot. Studies have shown that night splints that stretch the calves are an effective therapy for plantar fasciitis. Orthotic devices worn in the shoes can also be helpful for people with plantar fasciitis. These conservative treatments are successful for 80 to 90 percent of plantar fasciitis sufferers; ESWT could be an option for the 10 to 20 percent for whom conservative treatments do not work. In rare cases, if no other form of treatment works, surgeons may operate on the foot.

Prevention/Solution

It is important to pay close attention to any activities that may cause heel pain, such as running, jumping, or being on your feet for long periods of time. Keeping a pain journal in which you record your activities and how you feel can help you to notice which activities cause heel pain or make it worse.

Wearing the right shoe is important for people who are prone to plantar fasciitis, especially runners. Shoes that do not provide proper arch support can make it much easier to develop plantar fasciitis.

Runners who do not stretch adequately often develop tight muscles in the back of their legs, and this can lead to plantar fasciitis. Runners should do gentle stretching daily, especially of the hamstrings and calves.

Considerations

While many people feel that ESWT has helped their plantar fasciitis heel pain, there is still no widespread agreement among scientists about how effective it is. ESWT is also more costly than traditional methods of treatment, and it can have side effects like pain, tingling, swelling or bruising, although side effects are rare and generally mild. For these reasons, it is best to try more conservative treatments for six months before considering ESWT, and to use ESWT as a way to try to avoid surgery if other therapies do not work.

Tags: plantar fasciitis, plantar fasciitis, conservative treatments, heel pain, shock waves, after months

Chemotherapy Radiation Side Effects

Chemotherapy and radiation are two entirely different treatment programs used to combat cancer. In general, doctors use chemotherapy after initial tumor removal to prevent the spread of cancer at the cellular level. Radiation involves a targeted therapy at the tumor site to kill any localized cancer cells. Side effects from chemotherapy tend to affect the entire body while radiation therapy directly affects the area being treated. Treatment with chemotherapy and radiation can take many months and often results in cumulative side effects. However, most side effects are manageable and go away when the body recovers from treatment.

Fatigue

Fatigue represents one of the most common and longest-lasting side effects for cancer patients. Doctors frequently combine chemotherapy drugs for effectiveness, resulting in major changes to the normal function of the body. According to the American Cancer Society, fatigue causes lack of motivation, inability to concentrate and a whole body tiredness that doesn't resolve with adequate sleep. Most radiation treatment regimens involve a visit to the radiation oncologist every day of the week except weekends. Many individuals receive five to six weeks of daily treatments. The cumulative effects of repeated treatment can cause mental and physical fatigue. Many individuals feel overwhelming exhaustion that can be attributed to the combination of chemotherapy and radiation. When doctors choose an aggressive approach including chemotherapy and radiation at the same time, fatigue increases exponentially.

Nausea

Nausea is common with chemotherapy treatment but not radiation. If a patient receives chemotherapy before radiation, the effects of the chemo can last for quite a while in the body. Nausea can be a lasting, long-term side effect. While undergoing treatment, patients take strong anti-nausea drugs to combat stomach upset. Whether these drugs work adequately depends on the individual. However, the anti-nausea drugs can cause a slowdown in the intestinal processes. Stomach upset commonly lasts for a few weeks to a few months after chemotherapy treatment ends and often extends into radiation therapy. Radiation therapy does not cause stomach upset, nausea or bowel problems unless radiation is directed at these sites.

Hair Loss

Hair loss affects many people undergoing chemotherapy. Hair loss results from the powerful chemotherapy drugs attacking the cancer cells as well as those that divide rapidly. The American Cancer Society states that rapidly dividing cells are housed in the hair follicles, digestive tract, bone marrow, blood cells and reproductive tract. The side effects of hair loss and skin changes result from damage to these cells. What many people don't realize is that chemotherapy affects all of the hair on the body. Head hair is usually lost within the first few treatments. After multiple treatments, the remaining body hair might also slough off. This disconcerting side effect is temporary. Radiation therapy can damage hair follicles locally only. The targeted tumor sites experience topical skin changes, including the loss of hair at the radiation site.

Skin Changes

The skin undergoes radical changes during chemotherapy with sometimes-profound changes to an individual's skin texture. Many people find that their skin is completely blemish free for the first time in their lives. Others discover that subsequent treatments make their skin quite oily. One of the most common skin changes includes excessively dry skin because of the chemotherapy attacking the fast-growing cells of the skin, according to the National Cancer Institute. Sun sensitivity is common with both chemotherapy and radiation patients. Since radiation directly targets the skin, soreness and blistering can occur with treatment. This painful side effect will heal with time and by following the specific instructions of your radiation oncologist. Most chemotherapy skin side effects also resolve in time. However, radiation skin changes create a permanent area that is hypersensitive to sun exposure.

Low White Blood Cell Counts

As chemotherapy and radiation attack any remaining cancer cells in your body, these therapies also target the healthy cells, in particular the white blood cells. Low white blood cell counts are common in patients undergoing treatment with both chemotherapy and radiation. Both cancer treatments can result in lower immunity because a reduced amount of white blood cells are available to fight infection. Avoiding any infection is extremely important for chemotherapy and radiation patients. Doctors suggest that patients be very aware of cleanliness, avoid sick people, wash hands frequently and perform general good hygiene. Low white cell counts usually will resolve after treatment has ended.

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Warning Signs Of Heart Disease In Women

Heart disease has become an increasing problem for women. Mostly this is due to misconception, either from the idea that heart disease is really just a male problem or from a lack of understanding in the warning signs. Surprisingly, the symptoms can be different in men.

Fatigue

Many women who are suffering from heart disease will generally feel a certain amount of fatigue. This is usually an almost out of the ordinary sensation of exhaustion or weariness. Not just as if she hasn't gotten enough sleep (though this is another sign), but it's a real sense of fatigue.

Pain

Another fairly common warning sign of heart disease in women will involve some pain or discomfort. However, this ache isn't your "typical" pain that is isolated to the chest. In women, they may actually feel this discomfort in their back, shoulders and even neck. Some women may experience this ache in their abdominal region.

Shortness of Breath

When a woman is suffering from heart disease, she may also begin to experience a shortness of breath. This particular sign isn't just isolated to physical exertion and may come about during normal tasks and activities. This may also lead to another sign which would be a sensation of dizziness or being lightheaded. It can be a mild to moderate feeling, and it doesn't necessarily need to be connected to a shortness of breath.

Digestive Issues

Women with heart disease have often complained of some sort of digestive issue, including indigestion, nausea and sometimes vomiting. The real key to this sign is more so the frequency than the mere presence. If you are experiencing one of these digestive issues for longer than a month, you should contact a doctor as it may be a sign of heart disease (or some other medical condition).

Cognitive Changes

Sometimes, a woman who is suffering from heart disease may actually see a change in the way they feel mentally, manifesting as an anxiousness or a nervousness that has no root cause.

Change in Sleep Patterns

Frequently, women with heart disease may begin to exhibit a change in their sleep patterns. This will mainly be seen as a disturbance of some sort to their times of rest. It could be insomnia in which the sufferer would have a difficulty falling asleep or she may have troubles staying asleep.

Chest Pain

While this isn't a predominant warning sign in women, a discomfort, pressure or tightness isolated to the chest does affect around 30 percent of females. Of these women, some have described the sensation as an ache or sharp pain; others have described it as a burning or tingling sensation.

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Choose A Bathroom Scale

Choosing a bathroom scale is not as simple as it once was. Years ago, only analog scales existed as simple mechanical devices. But today, most scales on the market are digital scales. With each passing year, manufacturers increase the number of features and also the price. But you can still find a bathroom scale that meets your needs and your budget.

Instructions

1. Learn about what is available. While analog scales are becoming obsolete, newer digital scales have more features. Not only do scales measure weight, but many models also estimate body fat, visceral fat, muscle mass, body water, bone mass, calorie intake and metabolic age. These measurements are arrived at by programming in stats such as gender, age, weight, height and activity level. Other scales have memories for two to four users and have separate modes for adults, children, guests and athletes. Other scales store data, including a log of your last several weigh-ins by date. While most scales measure in pounds, many also measure in kilograms. A few also measure in stones.

2. Decide on what features you want. After leaning about the myriad of features now available on digital scales, try to choose the ones you actually want and will use. While measuring you body-fat percentage or BMI can prove useful if you want to lose weight, studies show that in many cases the estimation of body fat is not very accurate with the majority of scales. Also, keep in mind that these additional features greatly increase the cost of a bathroom scale.

3. Choose a talking scale if you have poor eyesight. There are scales available that not only display your weight (and other information) but also announce it. With some scales the announcement is not only in English but in Spanish, French and a few other languages as well. Another option is to buy a scale with large numbers and/or a backlit display, which makes reading easier. If you want to buy an analog scale, look for a large dial and window. Choose a scale with a large capacity if you are overweight. Most scales have a weight capacity of 300 lbs. Some scales made by Weight Watchers go up to 380 lbs. Be certain to look for the maximum weight of any scale you are considering. Also, look for larger scales, those with a platform that is sturdy and about 12 inches by 12 inches or larger.

4. Choose a medical scale if accuracy is important to you. Despite all the new bells and whistles of many digital scales these days, many consumers complain about the inaccuracy and inconsistency of most scales, especially when it comes to such features as body fat and body water measurements. To ensure an accurate weight measurement, a medical scale is a good choice. These are the types of scales you see in your doctor's office or the local gym. Medical scales are expensive, heavy, unattractive, and take up a lot of space in your home, but they are extremely accurate and consistent. These scales also have the highest weight capacity of any scale at up to 450 lbs.

5. Choose an analog scale if you want to save money. Most analog scales are available for under $10. A few of these old-fashioned scales are also rated by their owners as more reliable than digital scales.

6. Choose a solar bathroom scale if you care about saving energy. They have built-in solar cells that obtain power from sunlight or ordinary interior light such as from lamps.

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How Does Hiv Affect The Immune System

What is HIV?

HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is one of the most destructive viral infections in human history. Responsible for more than 25 million deaths since 1981, HIV can be found in two strains, the most common being HIV-1. Believed to have originated in primate species around sub-Saharan Africa, both strands are immutable to contemporary medical efforts and remain the target of extensive research and prevention efforts.

How Is HIV Spread?

After 3 decades of medical research, three primary modes of infection have been identified: sexual contact, blood transmission, and in utero mother-to-child. The most common form of infection is through sexual conduct (primarily intercourse), with the risk for female-to-male transmission standing at 0.04 percent per act and male-to-female transmission at 0.08 percent per act.

How Does HIV Affect the Immune System?

The first stage of HIV contraction is acute HIV infection. Since HIV is comprised of both RNA and DNA elements, it has the ability to directly infect human cells and utilize their components (in one of the 46 chromosomes) to replicate parts of the HIV structure. The immune system, for all intents and purposes, is comprised of two primary cell types: the B-cell and the T-cell. The two particular types of T-cell, helper and cytotoxic, are affected in distinct ways by the virus, leading to a constant struggle between virus-replication efforts and immune system T-cell reproduction.

The helper T-cells (CD4) function as the body's alarm system to initiate the cytotoxic cells, which attack and kill those cells in the body infected by the intruding virus. Because HIV attacks these helper T-cells immediately upon contraction, the immune system response capabilities gradually deteriorate throughout the duration of infection. As the body regenerates new T-cells, the reproducing HIV strands will target, infect and kill the new immune system elements.

The fight turns into a cycle of cell infection, death and reproduction for approximately 10 years until the body is so severely weakened by an inability to produce T-cells that it succumbs to weak viral and bacterial organisms (not HIV) that are normally simple work for the base human immune system. Once this has occurred, the ensuing condition is commonly known as AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

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Healing Properties Of Frankincense

Frankincense smoke provides a calming scent.

There's a reason why the Magi brought frankincense to the baby Jesus. Native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of eastern Africa, frankincense was prized for centuries for its exotic fragrance and medicinal properties. Clinical studies have been conducted around the world to examine the ascribed healing powers of the plant. Several of these studies have shown that frankincense can in fact help in the treatment of different types of conditions.

Emotional Stress

The soothing, but spicy fragrance of frankincense could be the reason it has been traditionally, if paradoxically, used to both calm the mind and stimulate it. However, it wasn't until more recent times that its benefits on the human psyche have been proven. In 2008, a study was published from an international team of researchers from the Hebrew University, Ariel University Center of Samaria, Tel-Aviv University and Herzog Memorial Hospital in Israel, Johns Hopkins University, Elli Lilly, and the University of Indiana at Bloomington in the United States. They concluded that breathing in the scent of frankincense could soothe feelings of anxiety and depression. It even suggests that the reason frankincense smoke is used during religious ceremonies is to add to the feeling of spiritual euphoria.

Joint Pain and Arthritis

In ancient times, sore joints were held over frankincense smoke to reduce painful inflammation. Centuries later, researchers at University of Tuebingen in Germany showed that the folk remedy may be rooted in fact, as published in Phytomedicine in Sept., 2010. The boswellic acids found in frankincense can reduce joint pain and arthritis symptoms, although it may be easier (and safer) to skip the smoke and apply it to the joints in oil form.

Skin Conditions

The anti-inflammatory properties may not only keep your body feeling younger, but it could also help your face look younger. A study published in 2010 from the University of Brescia in Italy, concluded that a base cream containing boswellic extract provided more noticeable treatment on patients with poor skin elasticity and fine wrinkles than that of the base cream by itself. These findings also have a historical origin: The ancient Romans applied a combination of frankincense resin and wax under their eyes to treat the after effects of particularly wild celebrations.

Cancer

Frankincense resin contains different anti-oxidant acids. These have been examined in several studies as possible anti-cancer agents. The University of Oklahoma published a study in 2009, the same year that suggested that boswellic acids could destroy human bladder cancer cells. The Shenyang Pharmaceutical University in China published its own report in October of the same year showed similar results when cells from a combination of chloroform and frankincense were isolated with leukemia cells. In a study published in March 2010, researchers at Ulm University in Germany discovered that frankincense's tirucallic acids inhibited the growth of prostate cancer in mice.

Asthma

Frankincense plays a role in a variety of folk cures for asthma and other respiratory disorders. Some call for the inhalation of the smoke while others involve eating or chewing the resin.

The same study from University of Tuebingen in Germany that demonstrated positive effects of frankincense on arthritis also found that 70 percent of their patients showed improvement in their bronchial asthma symptoms, while 20 percent saw results with a sugar pill.

Memory Loss

Frankincense resin is a traditional Arabic remedy for memory loss. It is typically chewed or added to coffee. There is some scientific validity to this one as well. The Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Iran discovered that when rats with hypothyroid disorder were given water laced with methimazole and frankincense, their speed in completing an underwater maze greatly increased over time, compared to those who were either given tap water or water laced with methimazole alone, according to their report published in 2010.

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Home Remedies For Tooth Pain Relief

Toothache is usually caused by advanced tooth decay. The abscess that results in a toothache usually begins as a cavity or chip in the enamel. These openings permit bacteria to infect the pulp or middle of the tooth. Dead tissue, bacteria and white blood cells form pus and cause the pulp to swell. The swelling pulp pushes against the enamel causing pain. There are several natural ways to relieve pain and prevent the condition altogether.

Causes

Most often, tooth decay and the resulting toothache is a result of inadequate dental hygiene. It may also run in families and can be exacerbated by conditions that cause dry mouth.

Beneficial Herbs

Clove oil alleviates toothache pain. Apply 2 to 3 drops to tooth using a cotton swab.

Kava is helpful for radiating pain. It is beneficial for nighttime pain. Take 20-60 mg daily of Kavapyrone tablets.

Thyme oil is a natural antiseptic and eliminates bacteria in the mouth. Follow directions on label.

Willowbark provides similar pain relief as aspirin without the stomach upset and risk of bleeding. Take 20-40 mg in capsule form 3 times daily.

Wintergreen in the form of a mouthwash. Contains aspirin like pain reliever methyl salicylate.

Food and Drink

Eat generous amounts of raw fruits and vegetables. They contain minerals that keep saliva from becoming overly acidic. Avoid sodas and other carbonated drinks as they wear down calcium in tooth enamel. Avoid sticky sweets that stick to the surface of the tooth.

Recommendations

Warm salt water can alleviate pain of a toothache or abscess. Rinse with a solution of 1 cup warm water and ½ teaspoon of salt.

Floss at least once a day. It is the best way to remove plague.

Do not use chewable vitamin C tablets because they can break down tooth enamel.

Get dental cleanings at least 2 times a year.

Brush after every meal.

Considerations

Contact your dentist if you experience dental pain after routine procedures.

If a root canal is needed, be sure to inform your dentist if you have ever experienced a herpes infection. If the trigeminal nerve in the cheek is disturbed it can reactivate an infection.

Contact a doctor if you experience pain when opening the mouth wide, have a fever, earache, loss of hearing or if the pain is radiating and/ or lasts for more than two days. Toothaches may also be caused by ear infections, an injured mouth or jaw, heart attack or sinusitis.

Tags: tooth decay, tooth enamel, your dentist

What Classes Do You Have To Take To Be An Xray Tech

X-ray technicians or radiology technicians are the medical personnel who perform diagnostic imaging examinations and administer radiation therapy, according to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. They are an important part of the imaging team, as technicians ensure that patients are positioned correctly to ensure accurate testing. A majority of x-ray technicians (60 percent) work in hospital settings, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average yearly salary for an entry-level technician is between $35,000 and $45,000, reports PayScale.com.

Head start

Preparation for a career as an x-ray technician begins in high school. It would benefit you to take coursework in biology, chemistry, math and computer science. While reviewing education options, make sure any program you're interested in is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Some schools require more than a high school diploma to qualify for acceptance. Other entrance requirements for some two-year degree programs include interviews, pre-program assessment tests and an acceptable grade-point average.

Working toward degree

The two-year program is the most common route to become an X-ray technician. After application and acceptance into a college or vocational school, you must complete pre-program coursework such as anatomy and physiology, and college mathematics. Afterward, you are provided with classroom and clinical instruction in areas such as patient care procedures, radiation, medical terminology, positioning of patients, medical ethics and radiobiology. An internship or practicum in a hospital setting is a part of many of the programs. Upon completion, you are awarded an associate degree in applied science.

Solidifying experience

To work as an x-ray tech, many states require you to pass a licensing exam, according to the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians. Thirty-five states in the U.S. require licensing. Check with your state board of health for its requirements. Although the ARRT provides the state with the exam, it is not the grantor. A certificate, on the other hand, is awarded through an exam individuals take through the ARRT. Applicants must meet ethics, education and examination requirements to receive the credential.

Furthering education

The one-year certificate program is an option for individuals from other medical sectors, such as registered nurses or medical technologists, who want to change fields, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, some schools, such as Galveston College, limit continuing education programs to individuals who are already registered technicians who want to broaden their skills. The only accredited certificate program in Texas offers certificates in breast imaging/mammography, computerized tomography technology, magnetic resonance, imaging technology and radiation therapy technology.

Bachelor's and beyond

A handful of schools offer bachelor and postgraduate degrees in x-ray technology. Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La., provides three types of degree programs. First, a bachelor's degree provides coursework and labs in areas such as pathology and clinical imaging. This curriculum leads to a radiology technician certification. Second, the school offers a bachelor's degree for individuals who have already earned radiology technician certification. Finally, the master's degree option is designed to produce leaders within the radiology field.

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Treat Chronic Hiccups

Hiccups are physiological reflexes that involve involuntary contractions of respiratory muscles. Such contractions are accompanied by an abrupt closure of the glottis during inhalation which then produces the odd “hic” sound. Hiccups can be acute or chronic. An acute hiccup is the usual type of hiccup that lasts briefly (less than 2 days). A chronic hiccup on the other hand, is a rare disorder in which repetitive spasmodic inspirations take place with in a period of 2 days or longer. There are a lot of factors that can trigger th onset of hiccups, including sudden excitement or fear, drinking large amounts of carbonated drinks and alcohol, eating or swallowing too fast, swallowing air and esophagitis or inflammation of the esophagus due to gastroesophageal reflux.

Instructions

1. Take some potent medications for your chronic hiccups. Severe hiccups can be treated with prescription medications including tranquilizers chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and diazepam (Valium), muscle relaxant baclofen (Lioresal), benzodiazepines, antispasmodic drug metoclopramide (Reglan) and anticonvulsant drugs phenytoin (Dilantin).

2. Consult your doctor about nasogastric (NG) tube. This type of medical device is used by doctors for chronic cases of hiccups. If your stomach is distended due to the amount of air inside it, the doctor will then insert the thin and flexible tube from your nose into your stomach (nasogastric tube). The tube will help release trapped air that will provide relief on your distended stomach and stimulates the back of your throat at the same time--easing up your chronic hiccups. The tube is then removed as soon as your hiccups cease to occur.

3. Ask your doctor about carotid sinus massage to stop your chronic hiccups. Carotid sinus massage involves application of gentle strokes on your carotid sinus situated in your neck just below the angle of your jaw. This type of massage should only be done by your doctor--do not ever try to do it yourself to avoid any complications. During the massage, your doctor will ask you to lie down and extend your neck. The massage is not performed on both sides of the neck, so you will be instructed to turn your head away from the area that is to be massaged. The doctor will then gently palpate your carotid sinus, and looks at the electrocardiogram monitor at the same time to monitor your heart beat. If the beating of your heart does not show any changes on its rate, firm pressure is then applied on your carotid sinus using gentle circular strokes. After doing the massage on one side of your neck, the doctor will repeat the same procedure on the other side.

4. Talk to your doctor about other procedures appropriate for your case. Nerve block is a procedure that involves injection of an anesthetic to block your phrenic nerve (the nerve that facilitate contractions of the diaphragm) and stop your persistent hiccups. This procedure is often the last resort and is not usually given except for very severe cases of hiccups that are unresponsive to other treatment methods.

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What Is Cat'S Claw Used For

Ever been browsing through the supplement aisle of your local health food store and wondered what in the world cat's claw is used for? This multi-functional rainforest plant has been used for thousands of years in South and Central America to treat a variety of ailments. More recently, Western doctors have begun to explore its healing properties, and have found it an effective treatment for a wide range of ailments. Read on to find out what cat's claw is used to treat and how the widely available supplement can help to improve your quality of life if used for detoxification, anti-inflammatory properties, or as an immune stimulant.

Instructions

What Is Cat's Claw Used For?

1. Cat's claw is most commonly available in capsules or tablets that are to be taken as daily supplements. However, before purchasing a bottle, be sure to read the expiration date. Although encapsulated cat's claw lasts longer than the plant itself, it's not invincible. Over time, its chemical elements can degrade, making it less effective.

2. Use cat's claw for cleansing and detoxifying the intestinal tract. A daily dose of cat's claw is a great way to flush out the toxins that can accumulate in the large and small colon. Cat's claw is used to treat a variety of stomach and intestinal disorders including, but not limited to, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, gastritis, ulcers, parasites and intestinal bacterial imbalances. In fact, cat's claw is such a potent detoxifier that it is also used as a kidney cleanser and to irrigate and clean deep wounds.

3. Use cat's claw for problems with inflammation. Cat's claw contains quinovic acid glycosides, a group of chemicals that have proven anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, people often use cat's claw to treat common inflammations such as arthritis, gastritis, asthma, a variety of skin inflammations, urinary tract infections, hemorrhoids and many other more rare ailments involving inflammation of tissues.

4. Use cat's claw to build your immune system. Cat's claw is perhaps best known for its ability to boost the immune system, especially for those who suffer from immune compromising and opportunistic infections. In fact, since the 1990s, cat's claw has been used in Europe to help combat AIDS, cancers and other diseases that compromise the immune system. However, healthy people also use cat's claw to ensure general immune health and to increase stamina and energy.

5. Consider using cat's claw as a daily supplement. Cat's claw is used to treat a variety of ailments and is also used as a preventative treatment. By taking it as a daily supplement, you might not only improve your general health, but stop many viruses and diseases in their tracks.

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Macrobiotic Diet Health Concerns

Macrobiotic Diet Health Concerns

Macrobiotic diets emphasize eating locally-grown and seasonal foods. While some proponents of macrobiotics eat fish, many are strictly vegetarian or vegan. Since macrobiotic eating is restrictive, followers should take the time to educate themselves about the nutritional factors of macrobiotic eating. Dr. Andrew Weil recommends following a macrobiotic diet with a doctor's guidance, and to report any signs of nutritional deficiencies.

Health concerns relate to a lack of animal proteins, which potentially leads to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These deficiencies can cause circulatory, bone and cardiovascular disorders.

Features

According to macrobiotic philosophy, human beings become ill on every level when they eat foods that are not regional to their living environment. The idea is to bring the person into alignment with the seasons and the basic rhythms of life. Originally from Japan, macrobiotic diets include whole grains as the main dietary component. Fifty percent of a macrobiotic diet is whole grain. Vegetables must be locally grown, organic and seasonal. Macrobiotic eaters consume protein in fish, soy products (such as tofu), legumes, and small quantities of fruits, nuts, seeds and sea vegetables, e.g., seaweed varieties.

Concerns

While macrobiotic eating has benefits, it also has limitations and associated concerns. According to Dr. Weil, the diet is restrictive and includes too much sodium. Fruits contain essential phytonutrients, which macrobiotic eaters deny themselves in all but small quantities. The greatest concern in macrobiotic eating is a lack of animal protein, which is a source of vitamin B12.

Dr. Weil explains additional macrobiotic diet health concerns. Macrobiotic eating can cause deficiencies in vitamins D and B Complex, as well as protein, calcium, magnesium, and iron. These dietary deficiencies are potential long-term health hazards. You can supplement all of the missing nutrients; however. If you are on, or wish to begin, a macrobiotic diet, seek the supervision of a health care professional. Have your blood levels checked for nutrient deficiencies. Dr. Weil urges that those on a macrobiotic diet report "fatigue, pain in muscles or joints, increased irritability or susceptibility to infections."

Significance

Vitamin B-2 is a B Complex vitamin and may be categorized as a nutritional building block. Dr. Weil explains that vitamin B-12 is essential for red blood cell synthesis and a stable central nervous system, and is crucial for healthy child development. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause serious problems including anemia, stroke and irreversible neurological damage.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Vitamin D stabilizes calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, an essential nutrient for healthy bones. The Mayo Clinic adds that recent research "suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases." While the sun is a major source of vitamin D, it also is found in fish, eggs, fortified milk, and cod liver oil, some of which are not macrobiotic foods. Iron deficiency can cause anemia.

Solutions

If you choose a macrobiotic lifestyle, add B Complex vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, and iron in supplemental forms. Also helpful are yeast extracts, soy products, spreads without animal fats and enriched whole grains. According to the Macrobiotic Guide, plant sources do not provide usable Vitamin B12. In whatever form you select, consume the minimum daily requirements as labeled on the vitamin packages.

Considerations

Keep health concerns in mind if you want to try macrobiotic eating. Weigh macrobiotic diet benefits, which are substantial. Dr. Weil praises the macrobiotic diet for its low fat, sugar and caloric properties. Macrobiotic diet is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. When you omit processed foods, you begin to strengthen your immune system.

Dr. Weil reports that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is studying macrobiotic diet to determine if it is superior to the American Heart Association diet. Since you can supplement the nutrients associated with animal protein, however, a macrobiotic diet may be a healthy lifestyle choice.

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