Before diving into the ginger bath, let me share with you some information about ginger, a powerful health-enhancing root.
Ginger is a tropical species originating in South East Asia, but the exact origin of this rhizome is uncertain. As Ginger is not known to grow in the wild, the plant would have rapidly spread from the Indian Ocean to Africa and the West Indies, where it is most widely cultivated today.
Pythagoras the ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher was one of its staunch supporters, and the Romans -who valued its medicinal properties and popularized its use throughout their European colonies- brought Ginger to Europe. King Henri the 8th of England is said to have used ginger for protection against the plague.
For centuries, Arab merchants controlled the ginger trade as well as other exotic spices that were highly sought after by the Europeans for culinary and medicinal use.
Ginger is also mentioned in the literature of the ancient Greeks and Romans. It has found its way into the most classic of ancient remedies, the "Mithridate", a mythical poison antidote, which was one of the most highly sought-after drugs during the Renaissance.
Ginger Bath
What prompted me to write this article is the incredible experience I personally had with the ginger bath.
I had been feeling cranky for a few days with flu symptoms I was unable to shake off. The fact that I was overwhelmed with work and in a deadly race against deadlines only made matters worse.
Feeling sorry for my misery, my friend Francine insisted I try a ginger bath, without going into much detail as to what happens in the process.
I obediently obliged and, in the evening, feeling shaky and achy, filled my bathtub with hot water and half a cup of grated ginger, as suggested. I gratefully eased myself into the warm and fragrant water.
Little did I expect what was going to happen next!
Within 5 minutes of lying in the bathtub, it felt like my body had turned into a tap! Sweat started pouring down my face and out of every single pore in my body in a way I had never experienced, not even while doing the most strenuous of sports! Not only during my 20-minute bath, but for the next couple of hours, completely soaking the bathrobe I was wearing.
I slept like a baby that night and, to my amazement, woke up feeling energetic, cleansed and ... completely symptom-free!
Is it magic?
Not at all! We all know by now that sweating is one of the most potent ways to get rid of toxins.
So, for those of us who don't have access to a sauna or steam bath, the ginger bath is a simple and sure way to sweat all those nasty toxins out of your body!
Ginger Recipes
Ginger Bath: You can use either fresh grated ginger or ginger powder. Add ½ a cup of freshly grated ginger or a rounded teaspoon of ginger powder in hot or warm water and soak for 15-20 minutes. Please remember that the ginger bath will make you sweat profusely for at least an hour afterwards, so wear a bathrobe or sweat clothes.
Make sure you drink plenty of water after the bath. If you have sensitive skin or are allergy-prone, test ginger on your skin for irritation before the bath.
Ginger Infusion Recipe: The ginger infusion works wonderfully in treating common cold and flu symptoms. Its effective anti-mucus properties relieve chest and nasal congestion, as well as inflammations. Finely chop a good piece of ginger (slightly smaller than your palm). This infusion will keep for up to 48 hours. Place in 1 litre of water and bring to the boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and leave to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, then let it steep for 10 minutes. Serve a ¾ mug of ginger and add ½ a squeezed lemon and 1 teaspoonful of honey, or to taste. Drink throughout the day as soon as you have cold or flu symptoms. This infusion will get rid of them in 48 hours!
Note: The longer the ginger soaks in the water, the sharper the taste becomes.
Ginger and Garlic Paste Recipe: Peel and chop 4 ounces of garlic and 4 ounces of fresh ginger root; mix ingredients in a blender; transfer to a jar and add one teaspoon of olive oil; refrigerate. Use a spoonful of this delicious blend as a base for flavouring your recipes.
Main Health-Enhancing Benefits of Ginger
o Calms nausea, including motion sickness dizziness
o Relieves gas and bloating
o Helps stop diarrhea
o Boosts digestion
o Calms menstrual cramps
o Relieves headaches
o Anti-inflamatory
o Stabilises blood pressure (equally when too high or too low)
o Lowers cholesterol
o Soothes cold and flu symptoms, as well as respiratory infections
o Known for its anti-cancer properties
o Freshens the breath naturally
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger have been known and valued for centuries. Modern Medicine have now provided scientific support for the long-held belief that ginger contains constituents with anti-inflammatory properties as well as lessen the pain of rheumatoid arthritis.
Ginger is also known to encourage blood circulation. Be cautious in using ginger with anti-coagulants. Consult with your physician if you take them.
If you're looking to lose weight, then the Detox Bath is an ideal addition to your routine. A combination of the Detox Bath with the occasional ginger bath is all you need to maintain a naturally healthy, fit and symptom and toxin-free body.
Are you looking for effective homemade medicine for acne that works like wonders? If so, I have the information for you. What I will be sharing with you are effective and cheap ways to make homemade remedies for acne. Using these treatments, I have seen improvement over acne miraculously. There are always a lot more things you can do to improve your acne other than using that topical acne gel and taking antibiotics, why not try these methods out too? I am sure these methods can benefit to your acne condition.
First of all, before I start with the best homemade medicine, I want you to understand that this article is not about using unknown herbs and mixing them altogether, and apply onto your face. I do not recommend you to use herbs with unknown effectiveness and harm. A friend of mine made this mistake not too long ago. He listened to someone who told him to pluck some herbal plants and apply directly to face. He expected improvement over his acne condition, but what came along are waves of irritation and rashes. I don't want that to happen to you. Before you use herbs for your acne, make sure it's safe and effective.
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has always been a good companion in treating acne. It is wonderful. You should plant some aloe plants in your home garden if it's possible to do so. Fresh aloe vera gives the best benefits out of the extracts of the plant. Now you might be thinking about the aloe vera gel in the pharmacies. Before you spend money on that bottle of gel, make sure it is made of 100% aloe vera. Based on my experience, fresh aloe vera flesh beats aloe gel in terms of effectiveness, time consumed for improvement, cost and so on. So I highly recommend you to get some aloe plants in your garden if it's possible.
You can use aloe vera in two ways. You can apply aloe vera directly onto your face for maximum benefits. The other way is to drink or eat it. If you are looking to cure your acne more effectively, apparently, the first way is the better one.
2. Ginger
For those who don't know about ginger's effectiveness on acne, you should start drinking ginger juice daily from now onwards. Many popular acne medical treatments in the world use the concept of anti-inflammation to treat acne, since acne is somehow a kind of inflammation skin disorder. Well, the good thing in ginger is that it contains loads of anti-inflammatory properties. Drink pure ginger juice if you can, add water if you want, twice daily, morning and before going to bed.
Just two glasses of ginger juice can make a lot of difference in your acne condition.
In this article, I have just introduced to you two of the most effective homemade medicine for acne. You can really expect to use these two homemade remedies and get amazing results over your acne condition.
Need help on how to cure your acne? I cannot guarantee by reading this can cure your acne, but if you have the time, why not read my story and learn my TOP SECRET 5 Steps To Zero Acne In Less Than 2 Months?
Ginger is native to China and India, the word deriving from Sanskrit meaning 'with a body like a deer's antler'. Ginger's shape reminds me of another root that is commonly sold in our supermarkets that can be prepared like potatoes, but obnoxiously produces such awful flatulence as to have made it totally banned in our home: Jerusalem artichoke. I digress.
Ginger spice was so popular in Europe that it was often provided in containers like salt and pepper. In England, the-epicentre-com says that pub owners and innkeepers provided small containers of ground ginger for customers to sprinkle into their beer, the original ginger ale!
Interestingly, the most searched-for ginger topic on Google seems to be a pornographic star with the first name of Ginger! That is probably due to a combination of things, maybe red hair, often called ginger hair, or that she spices up men's lives.
Ginger Root Properly Called Ginger Rhizome:
Regardless of popularity, we will speak here of the rhizome, Zingiber officinale, the ginger spice commonly used to make gingerbread cookies, ginger tea and flavor Asian cuisine and sauces. A rhizome is an underground stem, not a true root. If you were to dig up the whole ginger plant, you'd see fine hairs that feed the rhizome - those are ginger's real 'roots'.
As an aside, these rhizome nodule clumps are called 'hands' and that is how they are shipped to your grocery store, in clumps which you purchase by weight. You can break off a nodule, skin it and slice it thinly or finely grate it for additions to sauces or soups. Asian cuisine often calls for its use fresh, while many western recipes call for dried, ground ginger.
Fully 50% of the world's ginger harvest is produced in India, but the best quality comes from Jamaica. Lower quality ginger is used in beer or ginger ale production or pressed and reduced to oils for flavorings or perfumes.
Medicinal Uses of Ginger:
Ginger has been used medicinally for several thousand years, the first recorded mention being 3,000 years B.C. in China. Confucius is reputed to have eaten ginger daily, noting its stomach calming and gas reducing effects in the intestines.
It is used today to aid in the reduction of menopausal side effects as well as an aphrodisiac, the latter perhaps only the calming influence mentioned above, allowing for peaceful and enthusiastic reciprocal engagement with a willing partner.
Ginger has also been shown to be an excellent preservative, eliminating salmonella in tests!
Additionally, ginger has been recommended to counteract nausea associated for some with air, car and sea sickness. If you are nauseous, you can take a cube of sugared ginger candy and nibble it. The taste is fairly strong, so nibbling is the best course. If you prefer, you can eat a few gingersnap cookies to settle your stomach. That works well, too!
While the most potent antioxidant spice is clove, ginger ranks third behind oregano leaves, followed by cinnamon, turmeric and paprika. These spices pack a wallop, netting us more concentrated antioxidant power than even blueberries or red wine. In addition, they do this with a zero calorie cost (!) which cannot be said of other foods or beverages.
Cooking with Ginger Spice:
Vegetarian dishes abound with ginger spice. It is both sweet and hot, depending on the quantity used, lending a pleasant bite to some otherwise bland foods such as tofu.
For our recipe of the day at vegetarian-fun.com, we provide Old Fashioned Ginger Snaps found on Suite101.com - titled: Grandma Edna's Ginger Cookies. We modified the recipe to reflect Grandma Edna's alterations per her quote: "In my oven, 12 minutes is about the right time. Otherwise they get too brown. This makes a very rich cookie. I like to add a little more flour (maybe 1/4 cup) and add a tiny bit of water, maybe 1 Tbsp."
So the resulting recipe is as follows!
Grandma Edna's Ginger Cookies (World's Best Ginger Snaps)
Ingredients:
o 3/4 cup shortening
o 1-cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
o 1 egg
o 1/4 tsp salt
o 4 Tbsp molasses
o 2 1/4 cups flour
o 2 tsp baking soda
o 1/2 tsp ground cloves
o 1 tsp ground cinnamon
o 1 tsp ground ginger
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
1. Cream together shortening and brown sugar until well mixed, light, and fluffy.
2. Beat together well the egg, salt, and molasses and then mix these into the above. (Grandma beat and mixed these by hand.)
3. Sift together flour, baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon and ginger.
4. Add dry ingredients to first wet mixture and combine well.
5. Chill in the refrigerator a few hours or overnight.
6. After chilled, shape dough into balls about walnut sized and place balls on a greased cookie sheet, allowing room for expansion. Flatten balls with a fork.
7. Bake in 350-degree oven 12 to 15 min. Do not let get too brown.
Grandma liked these cookies thin and crisp. Experiment and adapt to suit taste, size and desired consistency. Grandma's were about 2 1/2" in diameter.
So there you have what we hope you will find a keeper ginger snap recipe. My dear spouse dearly loves a snappy, zingy and crispy ginger cookie. This fits his bill. However, if you have made one that is snappier and has a real ginger bite, please submit a recipe!
Sue Bozeman is co-owner and principal writer for http://www.vegetarian-fun.com which has been creating articles about healthy eating, gardening and vegetarian-oriented activities since 2004. There are articles of interest to everyone, regardless of lifestyle preference, centered around fruits, vegetables, spices, grains, nuts and seeds. We've recently begun a series on vegetarian pets, the first of which was the green iguana.
Ginger is an herb that has been used for over five thousand years for a variety of illnesses and conditions. In the practice of Ayurvedic medicine, Ginger is used very regularly for many things. Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient practice used in healing and this kind of practice is becoming more regular with the people of today. As the connection between mind and body is realized, folks are turning to these alternative medicines and beliefs. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi introduced Ayurvedic medicine to the people of today. It is also mentioned in Chopra's works.
Have you ever seen a pregnant woman munching on Ginger snaps? This is because Ginger is effective for an upset stomach and nausea. However, it is a great remedy for headaches as well. In fact, it's so great that many doctors and neurologists are beginning to recommend it. Although we're not sure how ginger treats headaches, it's been noted that the ginger reduces the frequency as well as the strength of headaches in those who have them regularly. Because Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, it doesn't allow the blood vessels to become inflamed. This is what eliminates or greatly reduces the headache.
It's important to take the Ginger at the very beginning of a headache. This will help it act quickly and prevent or lessen the headache. For many years, people have been using Ginger for nausea and vomiting. In fact, studies have shown that Ginger is twice as effective as the popular nausea medicine Dramamine. A recent test was done in Denmark where results showed that 75% of tested individuals experienced less pain and swelling. As a positive side effect, the people participating in the study had no colds while they were taking the Ginger.
It's very important that you DO NOT take Ginger if you have gallstones. This is because the Ginger will make the release of the bile even worse. Of course, if you're pregnant, you shouldn't take Ginger unless directed by your doctor. Ginger acts as somewhat of a blood thinner so if you are taking Aspirin or other blood thinners, do not take Ginger. If you have heart problems or are on a schedule of certain daily heart medicines, do not take Ginger. If you take medication to control blood sugar levels or if you have diabetes, avoid Ginger unless your doctor directs you to take it.
Of course, it's important to talk to your physician before you start taking any sort of herb. If your doctor okays you to take Ginger, you have a couple of options. You can take the pills or capsules and there is even Ginger paste. Brew Ginger in a tea and drink it. No matter which choice, only take it in that form and not multiple forms. You don't want to overdose on ginger. It's important to purchase Ginger only from reliable sources as in the past, the supplements have been found to be contaminated. Be sure to check the company's history and references.
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With there being over 20 million Americans suffering from the effects of osteoarthritis, there has been a renewed interest in the use of traditional remedies and natural treatments. One of these is the use of ginger for arthritis pain. Here we'll look at some of the background to ginger as a medicinal product and evidence of whether it works in arthritis.
Ginger root is the knobbly rhizome of the tall reed-like perennial plant grown in the tropics. It is available in various forms including the fresh root, powdered, dried, and crystallized (candied).
Medicinally ginger is believed to have a number of properties which include stimulating digestion, reducing nausea and easing flatulence. It has antiseptic qualities and has been used as an expectorant to clear catarrh.
It has been a common constituent in Chinese and Ayuverdic medicine for centuries.
Ginger also contains products that have anti-inflammatory properties and that is why it is believed that it has a role to play in easing arthritis pain.
One study carried out at the University of Miami Medical School (published in 2001), looked at 250 patients suffering with moderate to severe pain. Some were given 255mg twice daily of ginger as dietary supplement, whilst the remainder were given a placebo.
The results showed that over two-thirds on the ginger reported reduced pain. This was significantly greater than the placebo group. Other positive results have also been found in other similar studies, but this is not universally the case.
If you wanted to try using ginger, what are your options? You could take dietary supplements containing 255mg of ginger twice daily. The advantage of taking a supplement is that you can control the amount of ginger that you are receiving each day. This level has been demonstrated to be beneficial when using ginger for arthritis pain.
Alternatively you could simply use more ginger in your normal diet. This may suit you if you don't like taking supplement pills. Try using fresh ginger in your cooking. It is quite a simple product to use. You simply have to peel the outer skin with a potato peeler or paring knife and then slice or chop the ginger.
If you cannot obtain fresh ginger you can use dried ginger, although this may have lower levels of the active ingredients in it. Ginger is a great addition to meals such as stews and soups. It is also popular in desserts such a ginger pancakes and gingerbread. You could also make your own ginger ale from fresh ginger.
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Ginger is a tropical plant native to Southeastern Asia. The rhizome, or underground stem, of the Zingiber officinale plant is prized for its pungent aroma, spicy taste and medicinal qualities. Ginger lends its name to its family, the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. Used since ancient times ginger was brought to the Mediterranean by spice traders in the first century A.D. and it spread from there across the globe to the West Indies, Mexico and South America. Today, hundreds of thousands of tons are produced each year in India, China, Indonesia, Nepal and Nigeria, with India producing the largest amount.
The ginger plant is an herbaceous perennial plant with leafy stems that grow about three feet tall. Linear leaves from six to twelve inches long alternate up the sheathed stems. Flowers grow in terminal clusters, each having a bract and consisting of yellow-green and purple petals. Some Asian cuisines make use of the leaves as they have a more delicate, less pungent taste and aroma compared to the rhizome. Cultivation is through root cuttings and the plant is not allowed to go to seed.
Harvesting ginger is simple. Plants are pulled up and the rhizome is separated from the flower and leaf stalks. The rhizome is scraped clean and dried in the sun, which effectively kills the root so that it does not sprout. The dried rhizome is irregular in shape with a tough, fibrous covering over a soft, moist interior.
To use ginger in cooking the outer brownish-yellow layers are peeled away from the light-colored center. Fresh moist ginger is cut into matchsticks, finely diced, shredded or grated and added to many dishes. As a spice ginger is used in both sweet and savory dishes, including breads, rolls, cakes, cookies, biscuits, chutneys, desserts, fruit dishes, meat dishes, pickles and poultry. Coffee and tea may be spiced with ginger, especially during the cold months. Ginger is an essential ingredient in ginger ale and ginger beers. Ginger stores well in a plastic bag under refrigeration.
Powdered ginger is ground from the dried rhizome. Ginger powder can be substituted for fresh ginger when it's not available, although the taste is more subtle. Use 1/6 of the amount of fresh ginger when using ginger powder. The powder is typically called for in recipes for gingerbread and other baked goods and beverages.
Ginger contains about 2% essential oils with zingiberene being the main component. Rhizomes are distilled to collect the essential oil for use in the food and perfume industries. Components in the essential oils have been shown to increase motility of the gastrointestinal tract which helps with digestion. Other important characteristics of essential oil of ginger include analgesic, sedative and antibacterial properties. Since ancient times people have used ginger as medicine to drive away colds, cure a sore throat, tame a hoarse voice, as a carminative to aid digestion, to settle the stomach, and to disguise the taste of medicines.
Although ginger is generally recognized as being safe it promotes the production of bile, so people with gallstones should avoid consuming too much ginger. Interactions with other medications are rare, but ginger does interact with a common blood thinner, warfarin. Ginger has blood thinning and cholesterol lowering properties that may warrant further study.
Naomi Gallagher is a writer and a fantastic cook with a love for machines that help her make the most of her time in the kitchen. Making homemade bread has become one of her specialties. Learn more by visiting her sites where she likes to write about making bread and cooking great food: http://carouselspicerack.com/ and http://sunbeambreadmachine.com/.
Not only is ginger (Zingiber officinale) one of the most popular of all the spices but is also of the top five antioxidant foods (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2006). Numerous studies investigating ginger's medicinal properties have also shown it to be effective in conditions such as motion sickness and the prevention and treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inflammatory diseases and stomach ulcers.
Research has shown ginger to have effects against the following conditions:
Alzheimer's Disease
Two of ginger's most important antioxidants, curcumin and gingerol, have been shown to inhibit and even reverse the deposition in the brain of the amyloid plaques that are associated with Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, zingerone, another of ginger's antioxidants, neutralizes the powerful oxidant, peroxynitrite, which has also been implicated as an aggravating factor in Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Cancer
Several phytochemicals found in ginger have demonstrated strong anticancer activities in both laboratory and clinical studies. While ginger's anti-tumorigenic effects have yet to be fully understood, they are thought to involve the following mechanisms:
Anti-inflammatory: Cancer is often associated with inflammatory processes and ginger's potent anti-inflammatory activity reduces the risk of inflammation-induced malignancy. Ginger is an effective COX-2 inhibitor, curtailing the activity of potentially damaging COX-2 enzymes, the overproduction of which may cause harm to several tissue types.
Cancer cell death: The pungent vanilloids, gingerol and paradol found in ginger, are very effective in killing cancer cells. They achieve this both by direct cytotoxic activity against the tumour and indirectly by inducing apoptosis in the cancer cells.
Reducing tumour initiation and growth: The phytochemical zerumbone antagonises the processes of both tumour initiation and promotion. It does this by inducing antioxidant enzymes and by weakening the pro-inflammatory signalling pathways associated with communication between cancer cells.
Prevents DNA damage: Melatonin is an antioxidant produced by the body that is also found in some plants, such as ginger. It has the valuable property of being able to access most parts of the body, including brain and nervous tissue, and protects DNA against carcinogenic free-radical damage.
Anti-bacterial: Ginger can eliminate all strains of Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that are the principal cause of stomach cancer.
Cardiovascular Disease and Blood Lipids
Ginger has been shown to lower dangerously high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while raising the levels of beneficial HDL. These lipid-modulating effects are partly due to the inhibition of fat absorption from the intestines. In addition, ginger's cardioprotective effects are enhanced by its ability to reduce platelet stickiness and in so doing further reduce the risk of heart attacks and thrombotic strokes.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Ginger's long-valued role as a treatment for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions has now been substantiated by a number of scientific studies that show how it is involved in several anti-inflammatory mechanisms. It is a strong inhibitor of COX-2 enzymes, pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins that are all important components of the inflammatory response. Abnormal tissue inflammation occurs when an excess of prostaglandins, cytokines and COX-2 enzymes are released by cells in joint tissue. The more of these molecules that are released, the more inflammatory cells and chemicals are attracted to the joints where they cause pain and damage to the joint surfaces. These substances are integral to inflammatory mechanisms that can involve many tissue types, as well as the condition known as chronic systemic inflammation.
Antimicrobial Effects
The hydrochloric acid found in the stomach is a powerful defence against ingested pathogens and rapidly destroys almost all organisms that are taken in with food. Helicobacter pylori, however, is an unusually resilient bacterial species that thrives in the hostile, extremely acidic environment of the stomach. Once established, this bacteria causes a range of problems including indigestion, esophagitis, gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, and stomach cancer. Ginger has traditionally been used as a treatment for stomach ailments, and it has recently been shown to kill all nineteen pathogenic Helicobacter pylori species. The regular ingestion of ginger should help to kill these dangerous bacteria before they become established, and thereby pre-empt the need for antibiotics which destroy many valuable intestinal bacteria, in addition to their intended targets.
Diabetes
Although there has been relatively little investigation into the antidiabetic properties of ginger, promising early studies show that it can increase insulin sensitivity. This suggests that, in all likelihood, it is a valuable prophylactic spice against this disease.
Obesity
Ginger has a dual antiobesity effect. The phytochemicals gingerol and shogaol increase the metabolic rate and thus help to "burn off" excessive fat and also suppress the absorption of calorie-dense dietary fats from the intestines.
Antioxidant Effects
Ginger is a source of a large number of important antioxidants that, amongst other activities, reduce lipid oxidation by enhancing the activities of crucial internally produced antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase. Melatonin, in particular, is not only a highly effective free-radical scavenger itself, but also stimulates production of the main antioxidant enzyme of the brain, glutathione peroxidase.
Ginger's prominent role in traditional medical systems have been validated by contemporary research. As is the case with most spices, its preventive effects are enhanced when taken with other spices as there are synergistic effects between the medicinally active compounds that occur in this food group.
Keith Scott is a medical doctor who has a special interest in nutritional medicine. He has written several books on health related topics including Medicinal Seasonings, The Healing Power Of Spices and Natural Home Pharmacy. For more information about ginger,the medicinal value of other spices and spice supplements go to: http://medspice.com
Migraine headaches have become all too common in our fast paced high stress world. With the hectic pace of our lives and the fear that is too often associated with the modern lifestyle including wars, terrorism, the economy, family and work, and poor quality processed foods and more, it's little wonder that more and more people are suffering from mild and severe migraines at an increasing rate.
Migraines are very painful headaches that often occur on one side of the head, which is the basic meaning of the word migraine. These headaches are sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and changes in vision. They usually begin on only one side of the head and may become worse with exposure to light.
The severity of migraine pain can be anywhere from very slight to debilitating. Sometimes the pain from migraines can become so severe that the person is literally incapacitated and unable to do anything but lie in bed. More women suffer from migraine headaches than men by about a 4 to 1 ratio. Some women report that migraines disappear during pregnancy in a fairly large number of sufferers.
Wikipedia says this about migraine headaches;
The typical migraine headache is one-sided and pulsating, lasting 4 to 72 hours. Accompanying complaints are nausea and vomiting, and a heightened sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia) and noise (hyperacusis). Approximately one third of people who experience migraines get a preceding aura, in which a patient may sense a strange light or unpleasant smell. ....Other symptoms of the aura phase can include auditory or olfactory hallucinations, temporary dysphasia, vertigo, tingling or numbness of the face and extremities, and hypersensitivity to touch.
Migraine headaches have been documented as far back as 1200BC by the Egyptians who described it as a "headache with neuralgia". In 400 BC Hippocrates described the visual aura that can precede the migraine headache and the relief which can occur through vomiting. Aretaeus of Cappadocia is credited as the "discoverer" of migraines because of his description in the second century of the symptoms of a unilateral headache associated with vomiting.
Throughout the millennia hundreds of theories and ideas have been proposed to explain the causes of migraine. Treatments included everything from the somewhat reasonable to downright ludicrous in an attempt to alleviate the pain.
For relief of migraine, Andalusian-born physician Abulcasis, suggested application of a hot iron to the head or insertion of garlic into an incision made in the temple. In the Medieval Ages migraine was recognized as a discrete medical disorder with treatment ranging from hot irons to blood letting and even witchcraft.
The exact causes of migraines in western medicine are unknown even today. The most widespread theory is that it is a disorder of the serotonergic control system. Recent PET scans have demonstrated the aura to coincide with spreading cortical depression after an episode of greatly increased blood flow (up to 300% higher than normal).
There are many triggers of migraines including; environmental, stress of either a physical or emotional nature, nutritional deficiencies, allergic reactions, bright lights, loud noises, and certain odors or perfumes, changes in sleeping patterns, smoking or smoke exposure, skipping meals, alcohol, menstrual cycle fluctuations, birth control pills, hormone fluctuations during the menopause, foods containing tyramine (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken livers, figs, and some beans), monosodium glutamate (MSG) or nitrates (like bacon, hot dogs, and salami).
Some people who suffer from migraines also react to salt and eliminating salt can be helpful for some of these people. Lactose-intolerant individuals may benefit from avoiding milk and ice cream. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods, is converted to serotonin, a substance that might worsen some migraines. As a result, low-protein diets have been used with some success to reduce migraine attacks.
Chinese Medicine and Migraines
While western medicine still struggles to understand the true nature of disease in the human body, Chinese medicine is thousands of years ahead in understanding and offers many simple and effective remedies into the cause and treatments of migraines.
In Chinese medicine it is your chi or bio-energy that is responsible for everything that occurs in the body. Western medicine has dismissed this idea and far too simplistic, always opting to choose the extremely complex over the simple. But this is really a very dangerous mindset because you can be just as blinded to the truth if your mindset is always looking for complex answers. The same holds true when only looking for simple answers too.
In Chinese medicine, anytime you experience;
* Headaches
* Dizziness
* Nausea
* Vomiting
These are characteristics of "ascending fire chi" rising up to the head. Recall from above that "Recent PET scans have demonstrated the aura to coincide with spreading cortical depression after an episode of greatly increased blood flow (up to 300% higher than normal)." In Chinese medicine there is an old axiom that states "chi is the commander of blood, but blood is the mother of chi. This means that wherever chi goes, the blood will follow." There have been many experiments done that show that if a person thinks about their feet; blood flow to the feet actually increases. If they think about their head, the blood flow to the head also increases.
Naturally such studies are rarely if ever are published in the western media since western medicine really doesn't want people to know that they can use their mind and thoughts to help alleviate their chronic illnesses that bring is so much revenue for doctors and drug companies alike.
This ascending fire chi is the true cause of serious headaches such as migraines and many other associate illnesses of excess fire energy that are so common today in the western world. Recall that nausea, dizziness (vertigo) and vomiting are also a main symptoms reported by many migraine sufferers over the centuries. This is in perfect accord with ancient Chinese medical theory of "ascending fire chi". When chi rises to the head, the blood naturally follows. Often this intensifies the symptoms due to the expansion of blood vessels in the brain caused by the presence of increased blood flow.
So what is causing this "ascending fire chi" to rise up to the head? There can be many causes but they all have one thing in common, they are all reflective in one or more of the four main characteristics of chi, those are the;
1. Flow
2. Strength
3. Balance
4. Purity
These are the four main chi characteristics in the body. When anyone or more of these "chi symptoms" are present, symptoms and disease will be manifest in the body to some degree. Energy may be in disharmony for weeks, months or years before any physical manifestations of symptoms arise. Chinese pulse diagnosis is fantastic at detecting these energy deficiencies and imbalances sometimes decades in advance when done by a skilled master healer. This is something else that is also laughed at in western medical circles.
Chemicals in foods such as MSG, hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, various preservatives, artificial sweeteners and just about anything else artificial can causes excess fire chi to be generated in the body. If the kidneys (which control water functions of the body) are not strong enough or compromised in some way, they will not be able to balance out this excess fire chi and this energy can than ascend to the head uncontrollably. Where this chi goes, the blood will follow often resulting in the physical manifestation of the main migraine symptoms of pain, nausea, dizziness and vomiting, sometimes accompanied by "aura".
Excess fire chi rising to the head would certainly cause this "aura" that patients of describe preceding an attack. This aura can take place sometimes up to an hour or more before an attack of migraine. Visual aura is the most common of the neurological events. There is a disturbance of vision consisting usually of unformed flashes of white and/or black or rarely of multicolored lights (photopsia) or formations of dazzling zigzag lines. Sometimes auditory or olfactory hallucinations occur during this aura phase too.
These are all signs and symptoms of the ascending fire chi rising to the head, overloading the various senses and the brain itself, resulting in the various hallucinations and other symptoms that are regularly reported by migraine sufferers.
In advanced Chinese meditation, these same signs often accompany someone who is on the verge of attaining what's called a "Major breakthrough" in the meditative practice. In this case the symptoms are not a cause for alarm but celebration. That's because in this case they are a major sign that the practitioner has succeeded in leading huge amounts of chi to the brain, thus energizing the brain to a far higher level which is a major factor in enlightenment, increased mental power, wisdom and longevity. There is no pain or discomfort in a person who attains this level, but amazing joy, peace, happiness and significantly increased physical strength, endurance, immunity and longevity.
Methods to Cool the Fire
The triggers listed above can lead to a weakening of the kidneys and thus an associated increase in fire chi in the body. The heart is the fire organ of the body and even in western medicine it's known that the kidneys often play a role in people who suffer from various severe heart conditions, though they do not understand the exact mechanism behind this cause they reject the Chinese explanations of chi and chi theory as stated here.
Any illness severe enough to cause major symptoms in the body will always have part or all of it's root cause in the kidneys and kidney chi. The kidneys are your main organs that determine overall life force, sexual health, energy, and longevity. This is why Chinese medicine places such great emphasis on strengthening the kidneys. This is not only a factor in prevention of disease but in curing as well.
Here are several methods that are known to help cool down the fire chi in the body and greatly help reduce the frequency, severity or totally eliminate migraine headaches from occurring in the future.
1)Avoid fire inducing foods; Foods such as red meat, pork, processed foods, spices, alcohol, soda, refined sodium and sugars and all other refined foods should all be greatly cut down or eliminated from the diet as much as possible. These foods are very common in the western world and it's no coincidence that the majority of diseases were seeing in the west are diseases of excess fire energy and energy deficiency too. Processed foods are virtually dead in terms of their life energies.
2)Eat cooling (yin) foods from nature such as vegetables, fruits, wild fish, organic meats, whole grain breads and all other foods that are as minimally processed as possible; This also includes reading those labels to make sure that there are no chemicals in those foods at all.
3)Practice meditation 20-30 minutes per day to calm the mind and help cool down the fire energies of the body; Chinese meditations which focus on the "dan tien" area just below the navel are particularly helpful as that are is the seat of "water energies" in the body and can greatly help to not only cool the fire energies down, but strengthen the kidneys themselves.
4)Practice deep abdominal breathing several times per day; Breathing is another method that is used in Chinese medicine and martial arts to help not only cool down the fire during training or a battle, but to help increase endurance, health and longevity too. Breathing is one of the fastest and most effective methods of cooling down the fire. Practicing breath holding for 3-5 seconds every few breaths can go a long way to keeping the fire energies of the body in check.
5)Take herbs such as Ginger, Feverfew and Ginkgo Biloba; One case report suggested success using 4-6 grams per day of powdered ginger for migraines and the nausea that accompanies them.28 Ginger may also be taken as a tincture in the amount of 1.5-3 ml three times daily. Ginkgo biloba extract may also help because it reduces the formation of a substance known as platelet-activating factor which may contribute to migraines. Although Ginger is classified as a warming herb, in this case it helps to strengthen the water energies of the kidneys. The kidneys then have increased water energies to cool the fire of the body. This is a classic example of the "mother-son" law of Chinese medicine at work. Ginger is also excellent for the dizziness than often accompanies migraine headaches as well.
6)Use acupuncture and acupressure points to help balance chi flow; Acupressure points such as connecting valleys which is located on the webbing between the thumb and forefinger of both hands is known to be effective at relieving mild to moderate headaches and migraines. Press on this point with moderate pressure for 30-60 seconds of each hand. There are also points at the base of the back of the skull where the bone goes into the softer tissue of the neck that can be extremely effective at not only alleviating migraine attacks, but have been known to cure some cases of chronic migraines with only one application.
The exact location of these points is difficult to describe in words, but a general massaging of the lower part of the skull where the two thick chords of the neck disappear into the skull while looking down at the ground can often be just as effective as acupressure at relieving headache pain many cases.
7)Drink more water; Chronic dehydration is another major cause of headaches and in fact many other major illnesses were seeing today. Soda and coffee and even many teas do not count as drinking water. Water itself is pure, helps to ease the strain on the kidneys which again increases the strength of their control over the fire energies of the body. Not to mention water physically helps to purify the bloodstream, flushes out toxins and can help keep the blood thinner and flowing more smoothly throughout the system. This results in less strain on the heart and since the heart is the fire organ of the body that means less fire energies will be generated.
Also be sure to clean up your diet adding as much natural raw or at least lightly cooked foods to your diet as possible, avoiding chemicals and chemical triggers, reducing stress and exercising as much as possible as well as getting a good nights sleep. Slow motion exercises like Tai Chi and "The eight pieces of brocade" can strengthen the overall energy of the body and have a strong calming effect on all the organs of the body. This is especially true of the mind and can greatly help to reduce or eliminate migraine headaches.
Richard Stacel is a network engineer and practitioner of Chinese martial arts, medicine and chi-gung for over twenty five years. Having learned many Chinese health and healing arts from old world gung-fu and healing masters and practitioners, Rich has helped many people to overcome their health issues and achieve their fitness goals. Through diligent study and experience he has taken this knowledge even further over the years including reading scores of books on Chinese medicine, health, nutrition, supplements, meditation, martial arts, physics, science and many other subjects. Utilizing the web, health and fitness videos, newsletters, articles, teachings and lectures, Rich is passionate about spreading the true knowledge of health, healing, fitness and spiritual truths. I'm proud to be writing articles for NaturalNews.com You can learn more about the Chinese Health and Fitness video by visiting his website at http://www.chinesehealthandfitness.com.
You can view all of my articles on the Natural News website at http://www.naturalnews.com/Author134.html.
The Latin name for Ginger is Zingeber Officinale. It is a very flavorful and aromatic spice. Traditionally, in the Asian culture, ginger has been used for medicinal purposes. It is used to treat nausea, increase the appetite, fight body odor and promote perspiration.
Ginger benefits
In the Indian culture, ginger is used for medicinal purposes as well. The herb is used to treat arthritis. The herb has also been found to limit the production of cytokines that are linked with inflammation and pain. Ginger helps joint pain by stimulating blood circulation. Other conditions that have characteristics of pain and poor circulation can also benefit from using ginger, and these include Reynaud's Syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
In our modern world, ginger still relieves nausea and may ease motion sickness for some individuals. Large doses may actually help to relieve the chemotherapy related nausea. It helps to protect the heart, lower cholesterol, and prevent strokes, by preventing the clumping and build up of platelets in the arteries that can cause blood clots and atherosclerosis.
Ginger eases symptoms in the digestive tract as well. This includes flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, and menstrual cramping. While memory is not part of the digestive system, ginger may help to restore memory for some individuals.
The Therapeutic Properties Of Medical Ginger Root - Ginger Benefits
The ginger herb is mostly known for the herbs ability alleviates nausea, motion sickness, indigestion, and it also aids in other digestive problems. To be honest, the herb has been found to be better at performing than drugs for anti-nausea, and the good news is that you don't get the adverse side effects that many western medications give you. Because of what we have said, the ginger herb is an effective aid in helping with morning sickness and dizziness. Recent Studies, on top of this, we have found that the ginger root herb can lower blood cholesterol and the herb reduces blood clotting. Ginger has a structure within the herb similar to aspirin, so that is why it has the ability to thin the blood.
Some further ginger benefits include its use as an antibiotic agent, a very potent strong antioxidant (seeks out free radicals that would otherwise damage healthy cells), and has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties within the herb itself. Because of the above, the herb has been used to help treat arthritis, as well as bodily aches and pains. Ginger benefits colds, flus, and allergies.
As you can see from above, ginger has many benefits, and is probably one of the most sought after and widely used herbs of all the herbs. We use and recommend ginger daily.
Precautions
The good news is that Ginger has no known serious side effects, and the herb is viewed as a very safe herb to take. However, consumers should be aware that it has been known to cause heartburn in some people. If such a side effect occurs, lower the dosage or stop using the herb.
There are also some things to look out for however, if you are planning on using the herb. Pregnant women should check with their doctor because ginger has been known to stimulate uterine contractions. Those who take blood thinners, barbiturates, beta blockers, or insulin, or other diabetic medications, should consult their doctors' as well. Ginger can intensify the effects of some of these medications.
Ginger can be found to interfere with the absorptions of dietary iron and fat soluble vitamins. It can cause stomach upset in higher doses, and it should be stopped two weeks prior to any surgical procedure.
Our opinion On Ginger Benefits
Because ginger has a widespread use and a lengthy history of consumption, we believe that the ginger root herb is an effective and safe herb to consider for nutritional inclusion.
1. Try and purchase a ginger root supplement that has been produced with standardized extract. Such extracts contain gingerols, which are the active constituents thus giving the herb its true medicinal potency. Without these, there are no therapeutic benefits, and this is why, many herbs that are sold in supplement form, are pretty useless, although marketers will tell you different in order for you to waste your money on pointless products.
Another advantage of using Standardized extracts is that they also ensure you are getting the same dose from one capsule to the next.
2. if you don't know much about standardized extracts and want to understand the importance of using these extracts, then we suggest you take a further look in to this at our website below.
3. Dosages of ginger range from 25 mg to 100 mg. For optimal health maintenance, lower doses are better; for severe digestive problems, higher dosages may be considered to help with this.
The product we personally use called Total Balance, which contains Ginger - http://www.natural-nutritional-health-supplement.com is the best supplement we have come across. We have been using this supplement for over 3 years with excellent health results.
John Gibb runs a series of health websites, We offer a free health book for subscribers to our websites newsletter. We cover everything you need to know on nutrition and how to improve your general overall health. Check out our nutrition e-book, for more information on our nutrition book.
Ginger root is a popular spice that can be added to many different dishes for an added touch of spiciness. In addition, ginger root has been used as a natural medicine for many centuries to help cure many ailments. It's pungent taste and sweet aroma, as well as the medicinal benefits are largely due to the volatile oils known as gingerols and shogaols.
Ginger root is a chunky root with a light brown or tan skin, and the inside flesh is a soft yellow. It is available year round in the produce section of the grocery store, and it is also available in the spice section in powdered form. However, in order to obtain the maximum health benefits of ginger it should be consumed in its fresh state.
In order to use fresh ginger root, it needs to be washed and peeled. Then depending on what it is needed for, it can be grated, diced or juiced in a juicer. Using Fresh Ginger Root in Foods
Fresh ginger root is great when added to foods. Grated ginger goes well in stir-fries, meat and potato dishes, marinades and dressings as well as in baked goods. When using it in stir-fries it can be added at the beginning of the cooking process, or at the end for more flavor.
Grated ginger root is tasty in tea along with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves or just about any other spice. A natural sweetener may be added to help take away some of the zing of ginger.
It is also very good in freshly squeezed fruit juices that are made at home in a juicer. It goes great with pineapple, mango, apples, peaches, pears and many other fruits. Using Ginger for Medicinal Purposes
Ginger root has been proven to help with digestive problems such as heartburn, gas, bloating, cramps and diarrhea. This is because the ginger juices help to promote the secretion of digestive juices that help to break down the foods in the stomach. Eating ginger along with a meal, or drinking a ginger tea afterwards can help to obtain these benefits.
According to studies ginger root is more effective in relieving nausea and vomiting due to motion, pregnancy, surgery and fever than over-the-counter drugs. Drinking a ginger tea helps to relax the stomach muscles to keep them from cramping so that the nausea is reduced.
Ginger is also very effective in helping to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. It can be used internally as well as externally to find immediate relief. The best way is to grate ginger and apply it to the inflamed area in a hot compress. The warming effect of ginger immediately begins to soothe the inflamed area.
Welcome to Part 4 in the series of Ayurveda and the botanicals that are used in this 5,000 year-old medical science. In this edition we focus on Ginger, the herb that Ayurveda calls "The Univerisal Medicine", and one that has perhaps the oldest tradition in the West of any botanical. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) has a long history in both China and India for its medicinal properties, in both the fresh and dried root forms. Known popularly as a garnish in western culture, the health promoting properties of this root are vast, so let's explore them in more detail.
Ginger is an herb that grows year-round and has irregularly shaped underground roots that are shiny and juicy when cut. It is this root that has the characteristic aroma and has the medicinal properties in the fresh and dried forms. In fact, Ginger has uses for so many illnesses that it is best to break the benefits down to the actions on individual organ systems.
Starting with the Digestive System, Ginger has been known to stimulate digestion and improve the tone of the intestinal tract, which can ease the process of digestion itself and lead to less overall irritation. Additionally, Ginger may be a protective agent for the stomach against the damage caused by both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and alcohol. These findings indicate ginger can have a role in the prevention of gastric ulcers as well.
Ginger preparations are very user-friendly. Shredded fresh Ginger is frequently mixed with lemon juice and honey in Ayurvedic Medicine to reduce both nausea and vomiting, though the exact mechanisms behind these actions are not clear. Indigestion and biliary colic are other illnesses where Ginger has benefits.
The Musculoskeletal System uses for ginger are strongly focused on its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is known to inhibit the production of cytokines, which are chemicals that modulate the immune response and promote inflammation. Therefore, Ginger is used to treat disorders such as Arthritis, Bursitis other pain syndromes where inflammation is a culprit. Ginger has also been known to enhance circulation, thereby improving its efficacy for treating pain disorders. These characteristics of ginger, along with its relatively few side effects compared to pharmaceutical medications such as NSAIDS, give the root a niche in treating inflammation and pain.
Within Ayurvedic Medicine there is a belief that the body accumulates toxins which then lead to infection. The term in Ayurveda for these toxins is 'ama', and ama must be 'digested' by the immune system to rid the body of dis-ease. Ginger is used in this role of digesting infectious agents and has been effective in treating Sinusitis, Bronchitis and Allergic Rhinitis for thousands of years. These disease processes are similar in that the accumulation of bodily secretions causes symptoms. This is where the use of dried or fresh ginger in herbal teas can provide a defense against respiratory problems. Also, when taken during the course of viral illnesses such as Influenza, herbal teas with Ginger can induce sweating and fever reduction.
Further uses for Ginger in Ayurvedic Medicine are numerous and ancient vedic texts document Ginger having aphrodisiac properties. Pain relief from menstruation, irregular menses, treatment of impotence are other documented uses. Ginger has also been used externally to treat headaches, muscle and toothaches. The list is even longer and I am sure you are beginning to understand why Ayurveda calls this root "The Universal Medicine."
Ginger, unlike Amalaki and Turmeric detailed in past articles, is readily available in many forms in the United States. Many Ayurvedic websites exist where Ginger can be ordered, and it is common to find fresh ginger root in grocery stores across the West. Remember, though, the real key to using these botanicals in Ayurveda is finding a synergistic combination where the potency of one herb or fruit can enhance the actions of the others. Look for combinations where Ginger is used with other Ayurvedic herbs and you can maximize your health benefits from every botanical.
The next installment in the series will look at an herb also known as "Holy Basil", and why it has an honored place within Ayurveda.
For more information about Ayurveda and its synergistic products being introduced to the West, follow the link below. Thanks for reading!
To Your Health And Longevity,
Dr. Kevin Rosi
For more information, Kevin Rosi MD invites you to follow the link [http://Thezplan.com]. You will then have free access to further resources on Ayurveda and holistic nutrition.
You receive health benefits compliments of nature when growing ginger for your family. Ginger, Zingiber Officinale, provides us with healthy choices for food flavorings and herbal medicine. This valuable spice has an ancient past. The Greeks, Chinese, and Egyptians used it throughout history.
The Ginger plant is acclimated to tropical climates of its native forests in Asia. When growing ginger, it is important to keep the plants in a warm, moist environment. This plant likes it hot, but not bright, direct sunlight. Whether inside or outdoors, you can plant ginger in a flowerpot. If you live in a cold climate, the plants will need to be indoors for the winter.
Growing Ginger
You can grow your own plant from a ginger root that you purchase at the local supermarket. The night before you plant, soak the roots in warm water. Place the root in a pot filled with loose, rich potting mix. Insure the container has excellent drainage. Apply peat moss or organic compost around the plant. Cover the pot with a plastic bag and place it in a sunny spot where it will get indirect sunlight.
When the first shoots appear, remove the plastic bag. It is safe to move the plant into the garden when all danger of frost is past. When growing ginger, water it regularly, but avoid the soil becoming saturated.
A growing ginger plant can reach up to a height of four feet. As it grows, its slender stems and glossy leaves may stretch up to a foot long. For the plant to prosper, it will need high humidity. Mist the plants often, and provide light shade and rich soil.
The best time for growing it is in the spring. It usually takes three to five months for a plant to harvest. It is not necessary to unearth the whole plant for harvesting. Just poke holes in the soil gingerly and cut off what you need.
To preserve harvested ginger, it can be sun-dried in a dry cupboard or refrigerated.
Growing Ginger for cooking
Fresh ginger spices up ordinary stir-fry cooking. It can be used to flavor meats, vegetables, deserts, and drinks. Add ginger spice to your cookies, teas, or other recipes. One third of a teaspoon of ginger, when crushed into a powder, equals a serving.
Growing Ginger for medical reasons
Pregnant women often use ginger to relieve a stomachache or morning sickness. It is made of a substance called gingerol that relieves nausea. It is proven safe to take during pregnancy, all natural, and it causes no ill side effects. Ginger is also used to treat migraines and arthritis. Travelers who rather not take motion sickness tablets can use ginger to settle their stomach. Growing ginger to use in tea is practiced in homeopathic medicine against colds and flu.
Growing Ginger Tips
The best ginger is grown organically without pesticides.
Harvest as much ginger as you like, but put a budded piece back to replace what you use.
Do not leave your plant out in the cold. Outside temperatures lower than 50 degrees will stunt the growing ginger and may kill the plant.
Congratulations, on the wise decision of growing ginger. Do not be afraid to get your hands dirty! You will hit pay dirt, with fresh ginger on hand for cooking and taking care of your family's ills. (Not from your cooking!)
Michael Floren has been Growing Ginger for more than a decade. Visit http://grow-herbs.net/ to learn more about growing ginger and other great herbs.
Alternative medicine has certain advantages. It is a practice that is consuming a medication without the use of drugs. This may include medicines from herbs, self-knowledge, Biofeedback or acupuncture. With alternative medicine, a person becomes the active participation in dealing with the treatment. People understand the natural body functions and understand how that relates to their health.
Holistic medicine in the field of alternative medicine. Nature as a whole has an important role in the use of fruits, herbs, and vitamins Detox for cleansing, stimulating and correction. Use of these treatments has gained popularity in recent times, since they offer great health benefits to users. Many people direct their attention to alternative medicine and natural treatments for the prevention of diseases and resolve day-to-day issues related to health.
Benefits and usage:
Natural therapies present in alternative medicine the age-old compared with the Western form of treatments such as antibiotics and surgeries. According to doctors, more alternative medicine therapies began with clinical impressions or scientific research. The medicines are safe and involve natural substances. A main objective of alternative medicine is the relief of persons from depends largely on the use of drugs and to help them manage their life course. The following is for convenience of users, are some ways to use alternative medicine:
1. people after an alternative medicine can do physical exercises such as yoga, osteopathitiki, infuse physical activity, tai chi, Meditation and reflexology. To perform these exercises, place the pillow on a surface which provides comfort in the House, since these exercises enhance and manipulate the structural balance of the body. In addition, the exercises improve overall bodily functions. Users can practice these exercises on the mental, physical, mental and emotional benefits.
2. users can undergo treatment massage, which involves rubbing and handling of tissues of the body for mental and physical relaxation. They can do this either at home or in a clinical massage. When at home, massage oils for the neck, face, legs and hands.
3. re-thinking. Exercising the mind first, so that the body follows. Meditate for relaxing the mind, thinking positively and removing stress. Take deep breaths for best correction. At the same time, we do use enhanced visualization of objects that represent patterns of thought.
4. for the relaxation of the body, herbal drink. Improvement of bodily functions depend on what we eat and drink, since the same release, stimulates and has a healing effect in relation to the Human Body. Eat fresh fruit, vegetables and vitamins every day so that the body takes the necessary nutrients. Drink ginger tea, because it is effective for the treatment of nausea and Heals the body naturally.
5. those who wish to develop a strong healthy bones and muscles may request the assistance of a chiropractor. Chiropractic treatment is a method that handles the structures of the body, especially the spine to relieve low back pain or headache, or high blood pressure. The chiropractor shows people their pressure points.
6. A simple but curable method obtained under alternative treatment is laughter the best medicine. People have experienced miraculous changes in some health disorders due to simple laughter. It is therefore appropriate people watch comedy shows on television. Read magazines and books that promote laughter. Alternatively, wash the entire body with essential oils, herbs, fruits that have some therapeutic benefits to the skin. Combine herbs, natural products and fruit together as a solution for skin diseases.
7. users can try alternative medicines such as electromagnetic therapy and Biofeedback, which controls bodily functions such as heart rate, brain activity and blood pressure.
People moved out of the use of alternative medicine, as it offers many health benefits and long-term cure diseases naturally.
This article was written for Find this Online an online resource guide that offers a variety of articles written about various subjects. Gives you the information you are looking for. Browse many useful articles, information, content and resources on the topic.
Alternative medicine use is on the rise, according to a survey conducted by the US Government in 2002.
The survey polled 31,000 people, asking them about the use of alternative health, including yoga, massage, prayer, herbs and diet therapies, such as zone, Atkins and Ornish.
The survey, which was the largest health research alternative approaches in the US, concluded that 62% of American adults use alternative medicine therapies in 2002.
Prayer was the number one alternative therapy used if they are for their own health or the health of the other. Forty-three percent of Americans polled use prayer and ten percent participating in prayer groups.
Using a natural product, including enzymes, vitamin supplements, herbs and desirable, it was the second most often used alternative treatment in nineteen percent, followed by eight percent use deep breathing, meditation, yoga, chiropractic care and massage.
Diet-based therapies, such as the Atkins and Ornish, came in last with only 4% of Americans use them as alternatives to conventional medicine.
The survey results indicate an overall dissatisfaction with conventional medicine. The National Center for complementary and alternative medicine, part of the national institutes of health, stated that they believe people use alternative health practices because they don't receive the desired affect need practice conventional medicine.
Concerns from health officials about people who use alternative therapies, instead of conventional medicine. They fear that people will stop using conventional methods, which have been tested and proven to be safe and effective, while natural and alternative healing methods are tested to determine the safety and efficacy.
Health officials were also concerned that people might think because something is "natural", which also is safe. Two examples of unsafe natural remedies are kava kava kava kava, which has been linked to liver disease, and one of the herbs popular Ma Huang, also known as efedras, which causes excessive emphasis on the heart and is known to cause stroke and a heart. Health officials urge people to consult doctors before using alternative medicineto verify that the secure, especially when mixing alternative therapies with traditional drugs.
The study did not report whether the 31,000 polling was insured or not, that is a very important factor for the outcome of the investigation. Health officials were troubled to find that 13 percent of the respondents have started to use alternative health therapies, because conventional medicine was very expensive.
The author of this article is Tim Moore, writing for vitamins Stuff, a site that provides information about the vitamins and alternative medicine.
Herbal medicine is a medicine that uses the free use of plants and plant extracts to treat a disease or injury. There is a wide range of medicines from herbs and remedies to deal with any health issue, from depression to influenza. Explanation of alternative medicine of herbs
Most commonly used drugs, including expensive prescription ones, actually derived from plants. For example, morphine killer pain that comes from the poppy plant and aspirin from Willow bark. Digoxin, used to treat irregular heart rhythms, taken from foxglove.
The use of plants as corrective measures is not limited to traditional herbal medicine. Chinese herbal medicine is another example of the use of herbs in the field of alternative medicine. Herbal medicine uses a holistic approach to treating the whole person instead of focusing only on the symptoms. Trying to encourage the body to heal itself.
Different parts of a plant, such as flowers, seeds, leaves, can have different effects on a person. Botanists feel that the delicate balance of chemicals of the whole Herb is necessary for the maximum. Conventional medicine often tries to isolate or play components unit, but herbal medicine does not seek to do this. Is it safe herbs?
Of course, certain herbs can be helpful with certain health issues, but this does not mean that all herbs are safe for anyone, anytime. For example, many herbs should not be used during pregnancy.
Like any drug, herbal treatments can have side effects or negative interactions with other medicines. You should only start taking herbs under the watchful eye of a doctor or herbalist, especially if you have problems with heart disease, glaucoma, or high blood pressure. Also, epilepsy, diabetes type 1 and some other life-threatening illnesses is not suitable for processing by a herbalist. With herbs, does not exceed the recommended dose.
You can find herbs and alternative medicine remedies in tablet, capsule, dissatisfaction and cream form in health food stores, pharmacies and supermarkets still some. Even if they are available in the shops, it is still a good idea to see a doctor or herbalist, especially if your medical condition is serious. Be extremely cautious when taking herbs, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Also, do not make any changes to your current prescription medications without consulting a doctor. Many doctors and general practitioners will work alongside a botanist. Meeting with a botanist
The initial meeting with a botanist take probably at least one hour. During this consultation will be discussed alternative medical techniques, herbs, general health and medical and family history. You should also consider some questions about how life and past and present emotional state as well.
Using herbs as alternative medical treatments may include changes in diet and lifestyle, as well as the use of herbal supplements. You may be prompted to take many different herbs that are compatible with your needs. These supplements could be in pill or capsule form, or could come in a variety of syrups, tinctures, gargles, lotions, washes and inhalants. Depending on your situation and the General State of well-being, you might have a follow-up appointment in a few weeks, and can continue to see a botanist every month after that.
Need more information about the herbal medicine? Then head over plant Community. It is a fast growing social networking site devoted strictly to herbal therapies, holistic therapy and a relationship that is natural and healthy. Is completely free to use and anyone can play!
Teenagers aren't the only ones who will get acne, there are more adults out there than many people may think. The reason for the edge, particularly adults seem overactive glands. This makes the pores on the face kind of sticky and then in turn this will trap any dirt and bacteria it receives in the skin. Although this is the most common belief, some alternative medicine experts believe also that edge may be caused by the skin actually remove various toxins, when we sweat. Because of this, some of these specialists will introduce you to use various herbs patients, to get rid of these toxins. Things like dandelion root, yellow dock and chaparral can help combat edge. Below you will find a few different poultices considered help acne.
Using a dried Herb Poultice
Find some dried lavender, yellow root rock and chaparral from the place that sells these types of organic crops, or as soon as you grow them yourself, it is up to you.
You will need a mortar and a goydioy to take these herbs and be ground together. You will need to ground the powder that can be mixed easily.
Then take the mixture and put into a bowl and then begin to add a little hot water, until it starts in a nice thick paste.
Now to this mixture and place in some gauze which is spread in a flat and clean surface.
After you do this you must make sure that you clean your face really good. A good idea to use it is hydrogen peroxide.
Your patch Gets the poultice and to adopt and make sure all your face covered from Gaza.
You will need to keep in your face for at least one hour. While you do this, it is not surprising, if your skin begins to throb. This is normal. What happens is that the herbs are actually trying to learn all the toxins that are in your skin and even in the blood.
Using a fresh Herb Poultice
With this you will need to be yourself, some fresh lavender, chaparral and yellow rock. Again you can find them in the places that sell organic products. But, as always, increases the yourself is probably the best way forward.
When you have the herbs they should take approximately two ounces of each Herb and put them in a small saucepan and add a cup of water in the mixture.
Then let mixture simmer for two minutes.
Again, take some Gauze and layout in a flat and clean surface. Take the mixture liquid Herb and pour into Gaza.
Make sure to wash your face really good before applying the patch. As mentioned above, hydrogen peroxide works great for this.
Take the poultice and above all your face and lie down and rest on your face.
This works best when Poultice also keep for at least one hour. When the throbbing stops, now to be treated and you can remove the Patch from your face.
Although herbs are used as a topical treatment, which must not be used for an extended period of time. So it is always advisable, even for the acne using them for a short period of time.
For more free alternative medicine information of Annie Free alternative medicine information Pack in http://www.free-alternative-medicine-info.com and join thousands of other people who take control of their health issues.
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As a child, I remember when I would get a koilitsa torture, my mom asked me to lie down and slowly sip a drink of homemade lemonade with a dash of salt, black before my dad could be a doctor.
Today, when we look back and remember, I reckon my koilitsa for the treatment of torture was put in the path of a integrative medicine, alternative medicine (lemonade) + conventional medicine (doctor prescribed drugs). Alternative medicine & use
Complementary and alternative medicine or CAM, includes a wide range of healthcare practices, products and systems, which are not part of conventional medicine. For example, vegetable materials, preparations and products used in Asian medicine systems, such as medication-or traditional Chinese. It also includes practices: on the contrary, acupuncture, aromatherapy or agency account approaches such as prayer, mental healing, meditation, etc.
In addition, many people in the world to use alternative medicine, for example in China is approximately 40% of health care delivery in Africa uses 80% of the population, approximately 48% of Australians have used at least once. In North America, 42% and 70% of Canada have used at least once. Usage is very similar in Europe, for example, 75% of France has used at least once. It is effective?
"It is," "is not, and cannot say," all of them simultaneously. In view of the scientific research carried out in the field of alternative medicine until now, it seems that a sweeping Declaration would be a little too far fetched.
For example, there is no evidence in support of acupuncture, herbal medicines and a lot of manual editing. On the other hand, St. John's wort does not appear to affect a about the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents (Weber W, Vander Stoep, McCarty RL, et al, 2008). And that "it is not possible to say," because the investigation about many of these treatments are not available. Is it safe?
Today, there is a perception that if something is natural or organic matter may not be harmful. This belief may not apply in all cases, e.g. a snake are all natural and organic, but it is safe for human consumption?
Sometimes herbs may be harmful by their very nature, such as kava kava and comfrey are herbs, but are still associated with damage to the liver.
At other times, inappropriate regulations or administration of herbs, and therapeutic procedures may make it a highly effective alternative treatments dangerous. Consider acupuncture, although they have been found to be effective, but if used unsterilized needles could lead to infection. Similarly, an overdose of efedras, a plant treating respiratory congestion can lead to heart attacks, strokes and even death.
Forgotten herbs, a water lot overdose can lead to water intoxication and even death. Herbs are not an exception and some of them may even react with other unwanted medicines or some may not be suitable for consumption during pregnancy.
However, adverse effects of the alternative methods of treatment due to inadequate administration in no way implies that the alternative therapies is unsafe on their own. Rather, proven alternative medicine when properly managed, it is not only safe, efficient and cost-effective, but also gives patients choice.
Overall, an absolute answer Yes or no before the safety and effectiveness of alternative medicine does not exist. Assuming that an alternative formulation of medical quality, can be a boon or a bane as treatments administered, as well as when and how they are used.
BTW, I appreciate my mom makes lemonade, if I have a koilitsa torture or not!
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Want to discover medicinal herbs for skin more than moisturize? By the time you finish reading this would know about the benefits of herbs used in quality skin care products. Let's take look at medicinal herbs for the skin is effectively.
Although the Herb Aloe Vera can help soothe and keep skin moisturized, there are several medicinal herbs that can help you cope with skin problems and other disorders that may bother you.
Medicinal herbs found quality skin care products come from herbal plants. Pure and natural ingredients, which have been clinically tested and proven to work.
What, then, some medicinal herbs for skin to know about? First of all, I need to find 100% pure vegetable products. Then, read the ingredient label and search for substances such as:
o Phytessence Wakame--taken from the Japanese Sea kelp. This antioxidant increases the elasticity of the skin and helps heal dry skin.
o Active Manuka honey--this substance contains special enzymes that have antibacterial properties. It is also vital antioxidant properties, it helps protect the skin from infections and damage the cell free radicals.
o Homeo age--extracted from a Canadian brown algae. The sole component is rich in vitamins and minerals and has been proven to drastically reduce wrinkle conditions in delicate skin around the eyes.
Knowing that 100% pure medicinal herbs for skin are quality skin care herbal products gives you peace of mind. And because labour would not be wasting your money.
The benefits of herbs are numerous. By reducing fine lines, wrinkles and age spots whitening and other signs of ageing, to be most effective ingredients that I have found. And, because they are without chemicals, is healthy for your skin and so you might want to check out.
Just remember, when searching for herbal skin care products--to avoid products containing any types of chemicals or synthetic ingredients. Why? Because it can cause skin disorders, without troublesome skin, depression and even cancer. Therefore, educate yourself so you can stay aware of toxic ingredients.
My natural substances mentioned above are some of the very best herbal ingredients known. But there are others you have listed on my website.
Visit my Web site today to learn more about medicinal herbs, leather, so you will feel your Find skin care herbal products that keep skin looking young, healthy and alive!
Marcia is a researcher, consumers and passionate supporter of natural skin care products. Visit now to discover cutting-edge products for skin care anti aging-this is after extensive research http://www.health-beauty-and-vitality.com :
It's great to use natural herbs to improve the over all health and wellness. And there are many herbs that can help with specific diseases. Diabetes is one of them. Herbs for diabetes are increasingly used to complement or sometimes even replacing conventional diabetes drugs. Here you will find tips on how to protect diabetes without drugs.
The following herbs are effective for the treatment of diabetes, and also does not have any harmful side effects:
-Bitter melon (Balsam pear trees)
-The Indian Kino is also called Pitasara or Malabar Kino, Venga
-Common onion and garlic
-Blueberry leaves
-Ginkgo Biloba
-Cinnamon
Although each country has certain native herbs, most of them from China and other Asian countries. One of the reasons why are climate-hot and humid that promotes the growth of plants and is also a traditional way of life use healing herbs to combat diseases which do not work even with modern drugs. For example, a tropical fruit called bitter melon is an effective diabetes Herb. If you are fresh or juice sugar drink significantly reduces your blood. Diabetes herbal treatments uses better than diabetes conventional medicine?
Explanation of diabetes herbs popularity is simple? people use Herb medicine instead of traditional drugs, because herbs are safe for your health and have minimal side effects. Many people are worried that herbs cannot cure diseases quickly enough. This is true, herbs work but may take several months to see the result. Because the natural medicinal herbs stimulate the immune system to combat diabetes and that takes time.
Natural medicinal herbs for diabetes is only beneficial if taken exactly as prescribed and regular. Also remember to complete the course, even after you started to feel better. Otherwise you will not get the full benefit of herbal treatment.
Diabetics, which didn't prefer modern medicine healing natural way using medicinal herbs. The beauty of the herbs is that it does not cause more health problems than cure, but still manages the right ingredients. It is also very important to take proper between diabetes herbs and to do so with proper intervals. To know exactly what corrective measures are best for you, you need to get a professional medical opinion, whether you should use a particular herbal treatment of diabetes. Talk to your doctor, don't self medicate
Many people tend to self-medicate as herbal therapies do not usually any harm. However, remember that the herbs will not work if you choose the wrong Herb, quantity, or editing. Find best diabetes herbs
Visit a clinic that specializes in alternative medicine to get qualified advice on herbs for diabetes. The physician will find all the necessary information to find the right treatment for you herbs. From what you will receive your prescription for treatment of diabetes with herbs.
There are many medicinal herbs diabetes. It would be very smart to find as much as possible information about different types of medicinal herbs.
Find out more about the medicinal herbs and herbal therapies in medicinal herbs Guide. The wizard provides the formation about medicinal powers of herbs, including herbs for diabetes
Ginger root is an Herb that has been used in a variety of ways as a healing agent for more than 2000 years. Considered to have medicinal properties that can be useful for those who suffer from a myriad of diseases, including arthritis, nausea, motion sickness, headaches, and perhaps even the types of heart disease. In the United States the use of herbs as medicine is still considered as an alternative, but in places like China, Caribbean, India, parts of Africa and Europe, Ginger is widely accepted as a healing Herb.
The story of Ginger is very exciting. The Sanskrit name for Ginger is srngaveram, which translates to "Horn root". This is considered to be due to the presence of root ginger, which bears a resemblance to an animal's horn. At some point in history, but disappeared Ginger believed that Marco Polo brought back with him after many trips and then became popular in Europe. Most of the supply of Ginger from Jamaica, India, Africa, and China. Ginger grows in the wild in Jamaica and other Caribbean Islands, because the tropical climate offers the best growing conditions. Wild ginger produces flowers, when the Herb is the most mature stage. Queen Elizabeth I loved the taste of Ginger and encouraged the cooks to experiment with it. Man Melopswmo said that was the direct result of these experiments.
Ginger has been used most often to treat gastrointestinal maladies such as nausea, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, burns fugitive heartburn, intestinal gas, resulting in excessive flatulence and colitis. Many people believe that Ginger can help with these disorders, because it contains properties thought to strengthen the muscles in the gastrointestinal.
Botanists Use Ginger extract to reduce inflammation, which is a major cause of many diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, like osteoarthritis and bronchitis, dermatitis and ulcerative colitis. Studies are not conclusive, but many people prefer to use a natural remedy instead of ibuprofen or other traditional medicines.
Use Ginger for the treatment of the disease is at least one proposal seems to be somewhat effective but more studies should be conducted and analyzed. With regard to heart disease, it is not clear whether Ginger can be used successfully to reduce cholesterol. It is simply too early to make an intelligent comment on this kind of medical use of the Herb.
Ginger appears as a knotted root with an underground stem called a rhizome. Consists of volatile oils (somewhere between 1 and 4), as well as strong unions, known as gingerol and shogaol. these associations are believed to be responsible for the therapeutic properties of Ginger nausea and vomiting.
You can find Ginger production department, fresh or dried root. Ginger is also available as an extract in powder form, in the form of capsules, or olive oil. You can use ginger, to prepare a tea or to use a cooking Spice to prepare breads, cookies, or as an ingredient in vegetable dishes.
It is always wise to do your research and to speak with a little before supplanting ginger, or any other spice or Herb, with specific medicines. Many health food stores have botanists staff to answer any additional questions you might have. As with all things in your life, moderation is the best choice. However, in the selection of spices which can also be drugs, try to use Ginger as a healthy alternative, of course.
Connie Ragen Green has been used alternative medicine to complement traditional medicine to help it cope with arthritis and cancer for more than 15 years. The http://greenhouse.typepad.com/connie_ragen_green visits in order to find ways to improve the health and well-being.
Are any effective cellulite herbs? More and more people are turning to herbal products for quick updates to our days. This has not happened before. In fact, the medical society is generally suspicious of the effectiveness of certain medicines from herbs to eliminate cellulite. People who need fast repair against cellulite, taking into account the ugly orange peel look, used to depart from herbal medicines because of the long treatment period.
Desiring to take the famous textures in their skin, choose the mainstream medicine, such as detoxification ionithermie cellulite removal, laser treatment and massage cellulite. These medicines are promised to fix the problem, for a shorter period of time.
Recent clinical studies have shown that many associations abound in natural sources, such as crop, which usually help to prevent the development of cellulite. Briefly, cellulite is a condition below the level of the skin characterized by orange peel appearance of our skin. The fatty cells and tissues of the holding together begin to lose their elasticity.
Subsequent accumulation of fatty cells more pushes the outwards, causing the display layer. Whether we like it or not, women are more prone to cellulite than men. This is explained largely by the physical structure of fatty cells and tissues.
There are no other known factors that contribute to the development of cellulite. Among these are poor blood circulation, including within the tiny capillaries, accumulation of toxins is not fully functioning lymphatic system and fluid retention beneath your skin. Learn why these plants hold the promise of helping you prevent and eliminate cellulite without cost you much.
Here are some useful herbs cellulite treatment. Chestnut Indian, also known as horse-chestnut or Conker tree, is a large deciduous tree grown in the temperate regions. Contains saponin-aescin is widely used to treat varicose veins, edema, sprains and cellulite. Saponins belong to a specific group of chemical compounds, especially secondary metabolites. Aescin, when mixed with a saponin-, combats major inflammation of tissue and veins. This is known to have vascoprotective and vasoconstrictor properties. Ginkgo, also known as a kind of tree is cultivated widely in Eastern Zhejiang Province, China. This was initially to have disappeared, but now grown in other parts of Asia. Ginkgo extract containing substances which are to a large extent our to improve blood flow to tissues and organs, including capillary microcirculation. They also protect against oxidative cell damage caused by free radicals. In particular, contains Ginkgo flavonoid glycosides and terpenoids. Buckwheat is a pseudocereal not related to wheat and other cereals. Buckwheat is a rich source of rutin, a citrus flavonoid glycoside. Rutin helps to strenghthen the walls of the capillary, promoting good blood flow. It also reduces hemorrhaging between people with hypertension. Gotu Kola is a Herb grown annually. Usually located in Sri Lanka, Northern Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Melanesia, New Guinea and other parts of Asia. It is known by other local names, such as Pennywort, Antanan and Pegaga, among others. Gotu Kola extracts contain compounds that help grow our type I collagen, tread depth in sections presented on our wounds. Also substantially reduce inflammation and are a good source of antioxidants. These aid venous insufficiency and its excellent general health of cells.
Many other herbs and natural substances that help fight cellulite is oil, grapeseed, green tea kelp, dandelion, sweet clover, algae, evening primerose oil, lemon, strawberry and ivy barley, algae, among others.
The various medicines from herbs to be assessed here contain compounds that can improve the conditions described above. For the first phase of cellulite, herbal medicines work best when combined with good physical Régimen and healthy diet. To be undertaken for lifestyle changes, such as the drastic reduction of stress and avoiding smoking, since there may not from our own fight against cellulite herbal medicine. In fact, there are many cellulite creams that uses advanced cellulite herbs. Using these creams also help to slim and blast off these cellulite in your body.
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