SkyBlue Cross Alternative Health Blog

Monday 9 January 2012

How to choose an Alternative Medicine Practitioner

 As Alternative Medicine become more popular in North America, Also related regulations have not developed  well enough. Choosing a Alternative Medicine doctor can be a challenge. With hundreds of names to sift through, how do you know if you’re picking the right one? That challenge is taken to an even higher level when it comes to selecting an alternative medicine practitioner.
Not much has been done in the way of developing trustworthy resources for finding alternative medicine practitioners. Some alternative medicine therapies are not covered by health insurance, so it’s not as simple as going to your insurer’s Web site and searching by location or disease.
Alternative Medicine Practitioners: Finding One
If you're interested in the alternative medicine route to treat your ailment, the first step is finding someone who knows what he's doing. Here are some tips for finding an alternative medicine practitioner that will be perfect for you and your loved ones:
Ask a doctor. A great place to start your search for an alternative medicine practitioner is with your primary care physician. With so many people taking an interest in alternative medicine, practitioners for these kinds of therapies are becoming an important part of medical doctors’ networks.
Reach out to hospitals. If your own primary care doctor can’t make a recommendation — or if you don’t have a primary care doctor — it’s a good idea to contact hospitals or medical schools in your area. Many hospitals have integrative health departments that either have on-site practitioners or can make referrals to local practitioners.
Check out organizations. Most forms of alternative medicine have one or several professional organizations. These can be excellent resources for locating a practitioner, in addition to learning about the educational requirements and credentials that are important in each field.
Check with your insurer. Although it’s not the case for everyone, some patients might find that their insurance companies offer some coverage for alternative medicine. More mainstream alternative therapies, such as chiropractic, massage therapy, and acupuncture, tend to be the ones that are covered. Insurance companies may have listings of alternative medicine practitioners in these fields.
Alternative Medicine Practitioners: Choosing the Right One
Once you’ve developed a list of potential alternative medicine practitioners in your area, it’s a good idea to do a little research before making an appointment. The following questions can help determine whether this person is the right alternative medicine practitioner for you:
What kind of training and education do you have? This can be cross-checked with information available through professional organizations.
Do you specialize in any specific health conditions? This is important to know because unlike traditional medicine, where doctors tend to specialize, many alternative medicine practitioners are trained to treat a wide range of conditions.
Is there any research available showing that your style of practice can effectively treat my condition? This won’t always be available, as alternative medicine is only recently starting to receive more funding for research, but it’s worth asking.
What should I expect from my first appointment? Visiting an alternative medicine practitioner is a new experience for a lot of people, so you want to find someone who is aware of that and willing to take the time to explain how the treatment differs from conventional medicine.
How long will it take to see results? A practitioner probably won’t be able to tell you this for certain, but he should be able to give a ballpark based on his experience treating others with your condition.
The only way to know for sure if you’ve picked the right practitioner is to actually meet that person and get treated. But assessing your comfort level with the practitioner’s response to these questions can help point you in the right direction.



By: http://www.skybluecross.com

Reference Source: http://www.everydayhealth.com/

Friday 6 January 2012

Can't afford Expensive Health Insurance? then Buy Green Health Insurance, i.e. Superfood

By: http://skybluecross.com/

Superfood is a term used by various people in a wide variety of manners and contexts. For example, it is sometimes used to describe food with high phytonutrient content that may confer health benefits as a result. Another common definition is that a superfood is one which has high concentrations of essential nutrients with proven health benefits, with few properties generally considered to be negative (such as being high in saturated fats or artificial ingredients, food additives or contaminants). An often-cited example of a superfood (or superfruit) is blueberries. They contain high concentrations of various antioxidants, anthocyanins, vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber,[1] they have a compound, pterostilbene, which acts to protect the heart in the same way as cholesterol-lowering drugs, are low in calories and are most often organically grown

 In fact, our society overloads the medical community with too much responsibility when their job is to deal with full-blown illness and emergencies. It is MY job to make sure that I do not find myself immersed in illness. Most illness does not happen overnight- it takes time and clear-cut neglect. The current model of nutrition (Standard American Diet) is damaging us, without a doubt!

This belief has served me well. Through self-education and self-observation, I have found ways to continue my good health and vitality. It is rare that I need intervention, and even then it is usually with alternative health care providers who are assisting my need for prevention. When I “feel” something is wrong or off, I know what I need to do. It works!

It is obvious to almost everyone (although they may not practice it) that regular exercise, natural whole-food consumption, plenty of good water, etc., are key to optimal health. One of the most important ways to ensure continued good health is the regular consumption of ‘super foods’. These are called super because they go beyond the normal provision of nutrients. They provide exceedingly high amounts of the building blocks we need for our health, so much so that they can actually initiate change in our bodies for the good. The difference is tangibly felt when these foods are introduced and used regularly.

Included in these nutrient dense super foods are:

Bee Pollen- Completely balanced for vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, enzyme precursors and all essential amino acids, this food is a full spectrum blood building and rejuvenative substance. Recent research has shown that bee pollen counteracts the effects of aging, and increases both mental and physical capability. Two teaspoons of unsprayed pollen is the usual daily dose for therapeutic applications.

Flax Oil- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, protein and zinc with no cholesterol. Clinical studies show that this oil is good for skin, smoother muscle action, stronger cardiovascular performance, better digestive function, provides fuel for the heart, helps prevent blood clotting, reduces high blood fats of all kinds, promotes clearer thinking and improves stamina. It also helps to burn fats and increase stamina by supporting liver function.

Garlic: This humble herb is an incredible cleaning machine! It is a powerful, full spectrum anti-biotic, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, and has proven itself to rid the body internally and externally of any antigens or pathogens. It has been proven in hospitals in laboratories worldwide to destroy cancer and break up tumors, thin the blood and normalize blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The best way to consume this wonder-food is raw. A great way to do this is in juice. Juice up some other veggies and throw in some cloves of garlic (tomatoes, beets, celery, carrots, etc.) Throw in fresh squeezed lemon juice for good measure!

Algae: Known as the Masters of Regeneration, algae is an ancient food used by civilizations far back into history. Algae itself is an ancient plant, being the first to use photosynthesis (blue-green algae being the oldest). There are sea algaes such as kelp, wakame, etc. which are highly regarded for their rich mineral content. And there are fresh-water algaes such as Spirulina and Aphanizomenon-flos-aqua (AFA), which have a myriad of health benefits attached to them due to their nutrient dense make-up. Algaes build the immune system, cleanse the blood (mind-blowing amounts of chlorophyll!), increase energy, balance mood swings, reduce stress, improve memory and concentration, and reduce anxiety and depression. AFA is grown wild and has for thousands of years. Spirulina is grown agriculturally. For a comparison see AFA vs. Spirulina

Sprouts: Ideal for a natural source of protein that also helps the body cleanse itself, sprouts are rich in almost every nutrient, vitamins, enzymes, essential fatty acids, minerals, anti-oxidants and are cholesterol free. Sprouts can be delicious in sandwiches and salads. There is a variety available these days with varying flavors.

These are a few of the super foods available to us today. I use all of the above regularly with excellent results.

Power-Out Morning Smoothie:

Nut milk (almond, hazelnut, etc.)
Banana
Mazama Mix (algae and sprouts mix available from Cell Tech)
Flax oil
Bee pollen
Sesame seeds (high in calcium)

Deliciosa!

References
Linda Rector, Healthy Healing,1998
Scott Ohlgren, Cellular Cleansing Made Easy, 2002
James Balch, Nutritional Healing, 1997
Karl Abrams, Algae To The Rescue, 1996
Jeffrey Bruno, Edible Microalgae: A Review of the Health Research, 2000


Here are some GREAT books that I regularly refer to for the health of the people I love. You can order them directly from this site by clicking on the titles.

Prescription for Nutritional Healing,
by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,C.N.C.
My copy of this book is well worn from use. It is a practical A-Z reference to drug-free remedies using vitamins, minerals, herbs and food supplements. I think every home should have one. It’s easy to use and the information is incredibly useful.

Healthy Healing
by Linda Rector Page, N.D., Ph.D.
Another wonderful resource book for all natural self-healing. This book is extensive in its information. She not only gives you many choices but she also recommends specific manufacturers. There are recipes and diet suggestions for all types of challenges as well as cleansing programs. Another well used reference book in our home.

Smart Medicine For A Healthier Child
by Janet Zand, Lac,OMD,Rachel Walton,RN and Bob Rountree, M.D.
This great book is a practical A-Z reference to natural and conventional treatments for infants and children. It is a parent’s guide to safe and effective relief of common childhood disorders using nutritional supplements, herbs, homeopathy, acupressure, diet and conventional medicine. I like the fact that they cover both ends of the healing spectrum and you are given information to make an informed choice.

Your Body's Many Cries for Water
by F. Batmanghelidj, M.D.
The importance of water in our diets cannot be overstated. However, because it is so simple, people tend to forget about it. This book will remind you in a very complete way how very, very important water is to our health. You can make a HUGE difference in your health just by increasing your water intake. The author, an M.D., points out scientific studies which show the relationship of dehydration to asthma, allergies, arthritis, migraines, hypertension, chronic fatigue and many other degenerative diseases.

Reference Source: http://www.thenaturalife.com/

Thursday 5 January 2012

How to choose the right Alternative Medicine?

Most Americans don't understand the positive aspects of choosing natural treatments and alternative medicine over conventional therapies. With that in mind, consider these key points when you’re looking for the best and safest solutions for your health; Here are the rules and tips to help to choose the right Alternative Medicine
Rules to Choose Alternative medicine…
A. Is Safe, Natural and Gentle. Most forms of alternative therapies are safe and non-invasive. Most herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplementation and options like massage, Reiki and acupuncture are all wonderful therapies that Naturopaths would considered safe and gentle. By the way, one might argue that acupuncture is an “invasive” procedure with the use of needles. As an advocate of acupuncture (and having benefited by the many sessions I’ve had), needles are used, but they are very tiny and you can hardly feel them at all. Certainly, they’re not as invasive as a surgeon’s knife! Of course, please be sure the supplements you’re taking are safe for you too.
B. Offers more choices. Since most health insurance companies do not cover natural therapies, you’ll have many more choices available to you when searching for help. Often, insurance companies regulate who you can and can’t see, but because they’re out of the picture, you are free to choose what type of natural therapy you would like and which practitioner to see. Because each state has different licensing and laws, however, always check a therapist’s credentials before using him or her.
C. Ensures you are heard. Most alternative medicine practitioners will take the time to really “listen” to you and evaluate your symptoms. In the typical conventional medicine scenario, sometimes, all you’ll get is a quick appointment. I’ve had patients tell me, in some cases, their visits with their doctor were timed and lasted only 3 minutes! Yikes! Most Naturopaths and Chiropractors will take significant time with you (especially the first visit) to really assess you and your health. We take into account the health of your whole body, not only your physical symptoms, but the emotional ones too.
D. You’re In Charge. Whether you decide to take some herbs or homeopathy for yourself or make that Reiki appointment, you’re in charge of what goes into your body and what happens to it. Of course, for serious illnesses, I always recommend you partner with a natural health care practitioner who can assist you directly. But if you just have the sniffles or some allergies, there are LOTS of alternative remedies you can learn about, then try them for yourself.
There are some wonderful natural healing books are recommend to help you in your quest to better your health.
Tips to choose Alternative Treatment
Discuss the techniques of treatment medicine or ingredients of herbs that you use with your doctor. By providing information about alternative treatments that you use, your doctor can determine if an alternative treatment that has a negative impact to the medical care performed. If it necessary, you can ask the doctor about how to choose alternative treatment that suitable with your healing process.
Choose the alternative treatment that is based on research, which proved to be helpful treatment of cancer, such as acupuncture, yoga, or certain herbs, such as Gods Crown.
Avoid an alternative treatment that prohibits you deal with the medical. For cancer and tumors so far that help to survive is a medical treatment.
Logic in choosing an alternative treatment. Alternative treatments using magical power or move the disease to certain animal are not proved to be logical and not bring healing. Pay attention how to choose alternative treatment with your logic, OK.
In addition to alternative treatment, you also have to undergo healthy lifestyle and healthy food to survive a cancer. For example, regular exercise, eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid foods that contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, and coloring.
At the end, alternative treatments should not be the only way to deal with the treatment of diseases such as cancer. You probably have enough knowledge how to choose alternative treatment, but still use these treatments as a complementary treatment.

By: http://www.SkyBlueCross.com
Reference Source: www.hellolife.net

Wednesday 4 January 2012

Top 10 Superfoods and How to apply each of them to better your health

Different individual has its own specific body characters; though We're often fed news about superfoods and superherbs -- and it's tempting to want to believe everything we're told. Some superfood claims are backed by scientific studies, while other enticing claims turn certain foods into fads, though the foods have few proven benefits. We looked at the studies of 10 pantry picks and give you the real goods about their disease-fighting powers. anyone are welcome to consult us  for you specific need.
1. Rhubarb
Rhubarb is frequently regarded as a fruit (based on how we eat it), but botanically it is a vegetable belonging to the same family as sorrel and buckwheat. Championed for its phytochemical lindleyin, this nutritional all-star makes the cut for its potential role in relieving hot flashes in perimenopausal women. How the plant cools hot flashes is not exactly clear. Researchers have identified an extract in the root that may have estrogen-like properties. Need another reason to eat rhubarb? The plant is rich in potassium, vitamin C and dietary fibre.
Dietary uses: Canadian-grown rhubarb is available from February to July in most grocery stores but is most flavourful in the spring. Rhubarb is commonly eaten cooked in jams or spreads; baked in pies, cakes and muffins; and used in sorbet, ice cream and punch. Further studies are needed to determine the safety of medicinal amounts of the extract -- in concentrated pill form it may cause stomach cramps and mineral and electrolyte imbalances. Rhubarb root should not be consumed by children, or women who are pregnant or lactating.
2. Pumpkin seeds
This versatile seed, also known as pepitas, has long been treasured by American aboriginal peoples for its dietary and medicinal properties. Now these seeds are receiving the superfood attention they deserve. Of all the nuts and seeds typically consumed as snacks, pumpkin seeds are among the leaders of phytosterols -- a naturally occurring compound with an established reputation for cholesterol-lowering properties. Phytosterols are also being studied for their potential role in prostate health. Each 1/4 cup (50 millilitre) serving of the seed provides a healthy dose of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is a good source of minerals, including phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron, making it one of the most nutritious and flavourful seeds around.
Dietary uses: Pumpkin seeds are available year-round from grocery stores but are freshest in the fall when pumpkins are in season. They make a good snack, either on their own or mixed with walnuts, almonds, peanuts and dried fruit. High in fibre, they lend crunch and nutty flavour to salads, vegetables, pasta dishes, sauces and casseroles. But watch your portion size; one cup (250 milliltres) packs 750 calories.
3. Goji berries
Hailed as the newest superfood, goji, a Himalayan berry, has inspired a surge of interest for its use in treating diabetes, hypertension, malaria, fever, cancer and other ailments. Gram for gram, goji berries pack more vitamin C than some oranges and more beta-carotene than carrots. Unfortunately, though, there isn't enough evidence yet to confirm the health claims, since we only have testimonials and animal studies to go by. And goji berries and goji juice are costly.
Dietary uses: Goji berries are similar in taste to raisins but more tart. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are a tasty addition to tea, soup and hot cereal.
4. Cinnamon
Valued in ancient times as currency and once considered more precious than gold, cinnamon -- one of the world's oldest known spices -- has made the pilgrimage from spice rack to science lab. Preliminary studies are investigating its role in lowering blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, most likely due to the insulin-like effects of its polyphenols (natural substances found in plants). It's still too early to know if cinnamon can help curb blood sugars, but with studies suggesting its effects can be seen with a daily dose of just half a teaspoon (two millilitres), it's worth keeping this spice in mind when reaching into the spice cabinet.
Dietary uses: Cinnamon (the inner bark of the tropical cinnamon tree) comes in the form of sticks and powder. Sprinkle it on toast, add it to oatmeal or use it on desserts. Make cinnamon tea by pouring one to two cups (250 to 500 millilitres) of boiling water over one- to 1-1/2-inch sticks; steep for 10 minutes. Caution: Ingesting four tablespoons (60 mL) of cinnamon oil has been linked to serious side-effects.
5. Quinoa
Regarded as a sacred food by the Incas, quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals. This supergrain seed contains more protein than most cereal grains (22 grams per one cup/250 millilitres uncooked quinoa) and is considered a complete protein because it contains all eight of the essential amino acids we need for tissue development.
Quinoa is higher in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese, and zinc, and lower in sodium compared with wheat, barley and corn. This gluten-free grain also receives an honourable mention for being low in saturated fat (one gram of fat per one cup/250 millilitres uncooked quinoa).
Dietary uses: Quinoa can be substituted for most hot cereals and is a good replacement for rice. Cook it like porridge, include it in casseroles or stews, or add it (steamed, toasted or baked) to soups, salads or desserts. You can also use ground quinoa in breads, cookies, puddings, muffins and pasta. It's available in most grocery and health food stores.



6. Psyllium
Traditionally, psyllium is renowned as a laxative, since it absorbs water and swells as it moves through the digestive tract. But this all-star soluble fibre has many health benefits: lowering LDL, or "bad," cholesterol, helping control diabetes (it reduces the post-meal rise in blood sugar) and aiding in controlling appetite and weight (it makes you feel full longer). Since psyllium is a concentrated source of soluble fibre (with eight times more soluble fibre than oat bran), it's easy to eat enough of it during the day to enjoy its potential health benefits.
Dietary uses: Just 1/3 cup (75 millilitres) of Bran Buds with Psyllium, available at most grocery stores, provides 12 grams of fibre (almost half of our daily fibre needs). Caution: Incorporate psyllium and other high-fibre foods into your diet slowly to avoid abdominal pain and bloating, and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation.
7. Shallots
This vegetable deserves an award thanks to its active ingredient: fructo-oligosaccharides, a prebiotic that some researchers have chosen as the hottest in food and nutrition research. Prebiotics take centre stage for their potential to promote gut health by encouraging the growth and function of "good bacteria" that live in our digestive tract.
Emerging research is also revealing an important supporting role for flavonoids, antioxidants that are abundant in shallots. Preliminary research is investigating flavonoids for their preventive role in cancer and heart disease, but further research is still needed to support these potential benefits.
Dietary uses: Shallots are more subtle in flavour than their cousins, the onion and garlic, and they do not cause bad breath. Eat them raw or cooked till tender. Add shallots to soups, stews, spreads and stir-fries.
8. Milk thistle
Best known as a liver tonic, the power ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin, which may have protective effects on the liver, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Differences in research design -- variations in the type and extent of liver disease, and dose and duration of milk-thistle therapy -- make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions on the effectiveness of this herb.
Dietary uses: Milk thistle is available at drugstores and health food stores; take as directed.
9. Turmeric
Curcumin -- the active ingredient of the Indian curry spice turmeric -- may ease aches and inflammation. In Ayurveda (the traditional medicine of India), this herb has been used for thousands of years to treat arthritis and other ailments. Some research suggests that turmeric may help relieve some symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis; however, the evidence to date, while encouraging, is still far from conclusive.
Dietary uses: Turmeric is sometimes substituted for saffron. Use in Indian curries or dishes such as chicken tangine and chicken tandoori.
10. Borage oil
Borage oil, which is produced from the borage seed, has made the nutritional spotlight for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid -- an omega-6 essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence suggests that specialty formulas that contain borage oil may reduce inflammation of the lung in critically ill, hospitalized patients with respiratory distress.
Dietary uses: Borage oil is a component of Oxepa -- a specialty formula used in the critical-care unit to reduce lung inflammation. In concentrated (oil) form, borage can cause liver toxicity; pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid using borage oil. The medicinal plant can be eaten raw or cooked. Use fresh borage leaves to add flavor to cream cheese and vinaigrettes.
If you feel Superfood  maybe good to you , and need professional help, you are welcome to  contact us for further help.

Reference Source:www.canadianliving.com
Athour: http://www.SkyBlueCros.com , SkyBlue Cross Global Holistic Health Alternative Service

Tuesday 3 January 2012

Lotus Seeds' Health Benefits

By: http://www.SkyBlueCross.com
Lotus seeds, called lian zi in Chinese, can be used in food as well as purely for medicine. This Chinese herb is used mainly for the spleen, heart and kidneys, but also possesses calming qualities.

 Lotus flower blooming

 History
 The lotus flower was brought to China thousands of years ago.
 The lotus flower originated in India, but was taken to China, as well as to other parts of the world, 2,000 years ago. Now it is grown on a large scale in China, with the majority of the seeds coming out of the south.
 Food
 Lotus seeds are used in Chinese recipes.
 Lotus seeds are used in many Chinese soups and desserts. They are sweet-tasting and are a good source of protein.
 Benefits and Contraindications
 Lotus seeds are calming and can assist with insomnia.
 One of the medicinal benefits of lotus seeds is stopping chronic diarrhea, according to Mike Adams, creator of NaturalNews.com and HerbReference.com. Subhuti Dharmananda, director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine in Portland, Oregon, says the seeds "alleviate restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia."
 Warning
 Because lotus seeds have antidiarrheal properties, people with indigestion or constipation should avoid them.
 Fun Fact
 Lotus seeds are also eaten in the southern United States, called by the Cajun population "graine a voler," which in French means "flying seed." The name stems from the phenomenon that the seeds can actually pop out of the pods on their own as the pods dry.


 Nutritional Value
 According to the website NutritionData.com, lotus seeds are good source of protein, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. They are also low in saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol. Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., director from the Institute for Traditional Medicine, also reports that lotus seeds are a good source of protein and used in soups in traditional Chinese cooking. The website Nutritional Wellness also lists iron and zinc among trace elements included within the seeds.
 Tattoo Cover Up Specialists Precise & Safe Tattoo Removal & Fading with Medlite laser - call us www.precisionlasertr.com
 Sponsored Links
 Anti-Aging Properties
 All lotus seeds contain the anti-aging enzyme L-isoaspartyl methyltransferase, which is said to help repair damaged proteins, according to the Kushi Institute, a macrobiotic website. Because of this, many cosmetic companies are now finding ways to include the seeds in anti-aging blends. Daike Tian, in an article on the Water Gardeners International website, states that lotus seeds contain kaempferol, a natural flavonoid which prevents inflammation. Tian claims this this helps repair aging gum tissue.
 Medicinal Uses
 Dharmananda claims that lotus seeds have astringent properties that have specific benefits to the kidneys, helping to restore vital energy within the body. He states that the seeds are also used to treat sexual conditions. In accordance with Chinese medicine, the sweet and neutral taste of lotus seeds said to nourish the spleen and alleviate diarrhea. Dharmananda goes on to claim that the seeds are traditionally thought to have sedative or calming properties, and are therefore used to treat insomnia or restlessness. Tian claims that within Chinese medicine, the lotus embryo, or heart of the lotus seed, benefits the heart because of its bitter and cooling properties. The bitter components are said to include the isoquinoline alkaloids, which he claims have antispasmodic and calming effects, which he claims can help dilate blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure.
 Combination Formulas
 Lotus seeds are often a vital component when combined with other herbs to create traditional formulas within Chinese medicine. Dharmananda lists several on the Institute for Traditional Medicine website. The Sheng Ling Baizhu San blend is well known and is said to help weak digestion and alleviate diarrhea. The formula Qingxin Lianzi Yin can be used for urinary and reproductive disorders, including urinary tract infections and prostatitis

 Overview
 Homer told about the lotus eaters who deterred Odysseus's men on their epic journey and whose fare made people forgetful and apathetic. Truth divulging from legend, the seeds and leaves are edible and have been used in dishes for thousands of years without making anyone lose their memory. Besides being edible and ornamental, the lotus plant has many health benefits as well.
 What is Lotus
 The lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, is a fresh water plant that has been cultivated in southeast Asia and the Mediterranean for over 5000 years, according to Plant Culture. China and Japan classify the lotus as a vegetable and regularly eat the roots, called rhizomes, as well as its stems and leaves. The petals are used to spice dishes and to make teas. The seeds, a major export from China, are prepared in many way for eating or healing applications.
 55/YO Mom Looks 35 Mom Reveals Shocking Trick for Erasing Wrinkles! Doctors Hate Her www.CollagenRenew.net/Anti_Wrinkles
 Sponsored Links
 Preparing and Eating
 The seeds can be eaten raw but are typically dried before export. Typically, Asians roast the seeds or use them to prepare traditional foods such as "moo pies," as well as red bean and lotus seed soup for newlyweds, according to the Institute of Traditional Medicine. Inside of the seed is a bitter embryo. Many recommend removing the bitter part before cooking. It is the embryo and seed extracts which are often used for medicinal purposes.
 Nutrition
 Eating 1 oz. of raw lotus seeds provides 94.3 calories. While 1 oz. of seeds is a very small sample size it is a low-fat, cholesterol-free snack. Lotus seeds contain no sugar but do provide 18.3 g of carbohydrates and 4.4 g of protein as well as 4.6% and 5.6% of the daily values of calcium and iron, respectively. Calorie Lab notes that the seeds are also a good source of thiamine, phosphorus, potassium and manganese.
 Health Benefits
 Western research has found many uses for the whole of the lotus plant. The seeds are powerful antioxidants and help fight inflammation and aging, writes D. Tian, Ph.D, author of "The Versatile and Valuable Lotus," in the November 2008 edition of the "Water Gardeners International Online." He adds that good investigative evidence supports using the seeds as an antiviral; they can help fight the herpes 1 virus. Dr. Tian also reports that since the 1960s, research has found the seeds to be useful in lowering hypertension. Most of the studies have used animals in a lab setting, but there is good promise for human trials.
 Traditional Medicine
 Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine view the seeds as astringent, meaning among other things that they can decrease abnormal fluid leakage from organs such as the spleen, kidney and heart, according to Dr. Tian. Men are given lotus seeds as part of treating deficient kidney function related to sexual problems. The inner part of the seeds, the bitter greens or embryos, are considered "cooling," and are used to treat the heart for "pathogenic heat."
 Ginger Health Benefits For A Non-Drowsy Alternative, Try Natural Source Gravol® Ginger. Gravol.ca/Natural-Source-Ginger
 Far Infrared Wellness Enjoy the Health Benefits & Stress Relief of Infrared Heat, From $1499 FarNorthSaunas.com/Benefits
 Signs Of Arthritis Learn More About The Signs Of Arthritis Through Rub A535. RubA535.com/Signs-Of-Arthritis
 New Kidney Health Wonder 2,000 year old wonder reinvented to enable optimum kidney health. www.elixirindustry.com
 Sponsored Links
 References
 Plant Cultures: Lotus History
 Institute for Traditional Medicine: Lotus Seed


Reference:: http://www.livestrong.com

Monday 2 January 2012

Alternative Medicine Brief Review

By: http: http://www.skybluecross.com 

Advantages of Alternative Medicine
Advantages of Alternative Medicine - More and more people today are recognizing the advantages of alternative medicine over the mainstream medicines. The health care professionals are also recognizing these advantages and hence they prefer the alternative medicines. It has been understood that one of the main advantages of the alternative medicine is that it heals the body and it treats the actual cause for which the disease has occurred. It is very important to understand the actual cause of the disease otherwise it will never go away from the root. On the other hand the mainstream medicine tends to treat only the symptoms of the disease


Alternative Healing---An Introduction

With the growing number of people being affected by newly discovered chronic degenerative diseases such as AIDS and chronic fatigue syndrome, Are you worried or wondering:
Is it possible to maintain good health?

What your body needs to function properly?

Why conventional medicine is becoming more complicated and costly and in some cases simply ineffective?

A growing number of people are turning to alternative medicine and natural healing--simple, traditional low-tech methods of preventing illnesses and solving everyday health problems.

Do you have unanswered questions on....

Why are people flocking to health food stores, with their lotions and potions, and what keeps them going back for more?

What to do if you or someone in your family falls ill?

Natural Drugless Therapies
Are these therapies really old wives tales or can they really work?

Even mainstream doctors have begun to recommend natural drugless therapies' to treat both everyday complaints and serious illnesses. Dietary modifications, for instance, has become the weapons of choice against a number of diseases that would have been treated mainly with prescription drugs a generation ago
Is Your Diet Making You Ill
It is now known that many conditions are caused by the wrong diet and can be reversed by the right diet. Heart disease, cancer, weight problems, arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure - they can all be treated to some degree with foods. Natural therapies found in alternative medicine are actually much older than Western treatments such as surgeries and antibiotics. Experts estimate that herbal remedies and Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, has been around for 5,000 years
Tradition Of Self-Reliance
Many alternative medicine remedies began with scientific research or clinical impressions reported by physicians working with safe, natural substances. But we live in a generation now that has been cut off from this age-old tradition of self-reliance. Healing and health care have become almost the exclusive province of duly licensed physicians. While doctors and other professionals are indeed great to have around, what is not so great is when you cannot do anything without them.
Do You Really Need A Doctor
Shouldn't we be able to do something to save our health - maybe even our lives - without a doctor?
What happens when medical help is not so readily available?

What happens when doctoring simply does not work?

Some of us go to doctor after doctor, and still no help. Is that the end of the line?


Reasons For Turning To alternative Medicine
While antibiotics have saved millions of lives, they have not really solved some resurgence of germs that are turning up in new forms that do not respond to conventional therapies. There has been a real shift in the way people think about their health. Rising health care cost is a factor in the recent surge of interest in alternative medicine. Many people are attracted to the alternative physicians emphasis on treating the whole person - body, mind and spirit. Most importantly some physicians use intensive counseling to help patients find out whether aspects of their daily lives, such as job stress, marital problems, diet or sleeping habits might be behind their symptoms. In this age of managed care and impersonal group practices patients find this individualized approach of alternative medicine particularly appealing

Reference: www.articledoctor.com

Sunday 1 January 2012

Lotus Root Health Benefits Overview

By: http://www.SkyBlueCross.com

Lotus root is sweet and can be eaten as fruit, sliced and stir fried, or stuffed with glutinous rice in its flue-shaped holes and steamed as dessert. Tender young lotus roots are good for salads while starchy mature lotus roots are good for making soups. Ground mature lotus root powder makes wonderful thick soup and dessert soup. It also stops diarrhea, clears Heat and improve appetite. Lotus roots contain much iron, vitamins B & C.
Read More
The rich fibre content of lotus roots stimulates peristalsis and relieves constipation. Drinking 2 to 3 glasses of lotus root juice a day can stop bleeding of the esophagus an stomach (vomiting blood); bleeding of the rectum, intestines or stomach (blood in feces); nose bleeding or gum bleeding. Lotus root soup also serves similar purposes. Patients with high fever can drink it cold, while those with steady temperature should drink it warm. Drinking water chestnut juice mixed with pear juice can help clear phlegm while mixing it with grape juice and carrot juice eases dry tongues.

 Besides its use as a food, all parts of the lotus plant - seeds, leaves, and flowers as well as the root - have long been respected in the East for their medicinal properties. In Oriental medicine lotus seeds are eaten to increase energy and vitality and to aid digestion. Containing twenty percent protein, the seeds are also nourishing. Though the entire rhizome can be used medicinally, the portion where the links join has the greatest effect. The physical resemblance of lotus root to the lungs is a clue to its healing properties. Lotus root has traditionally been used to treat various respiratory problems. Small doses of the juice extracted from raw, finely grated lotus root is prescribed for lung-related ailments, such as tuberculosis, asthma, and coughing, for heart disease, and to increase energy and neutralize toxins.
 Lotus root is said to melt mucus accumulation in the body, especially in the respiratory system. Lotus Root Tea is also said to be effective, particularly to relieve coughing. A macrobiotic remedy combining lotus root and kuzu is often used to treat colds accompanied by fever and/or troubled stomach and intestines.

 Combined with the juice of grated ginger, lotus root juice is said to be good for enteritis (inflammation of the intestine). A plaster compress made from lotus root, white flour, and grated ginger is considered an effective folk remedy for dispersing and moving stagnated mucus. When applied to the face, lotus root plaster can relieve sinus congestion and inflammation.

Reference: http://www.naturalimport.com

https://ketointermittentfasting.org/keto-and-intermittent-keto-and-intermittent-fasting-for-mental-clarity-and-focus/

  Alzheimer's ,   Intermittent Fasting Schedule ,   KETO DIET FOR KETO IF TLM ,   keto-if for ,   keto-if for anti-aging ,   keto-if for...