Natural Health Remedies

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The 5 Dangerous Chemicals In Our Homes

By Consumer Health Advocate, Frank Mangano

A hundred years ago, these chemicals did not even exist. Today, bisphenol A, phthalates, PFOA, formaldehyde and even PDBE (polybrominated diphenyl ether) can be found in nearly all of the millions of homes in the United States. These chemicals are used everywhere from carpets to plastic bottles to cushions and even baby mattresses. These chemicals are also added to shampoos, hair waxes, makeup... You name it and the pharmaceutical industry has been able to add these chemicals to it.

Bisphenol A

This chemical is the foundation of nearly unbreakable and clear polycarbonate plastics. Epoxy resins also contain bisphenol A. As such, this chemical is found in every plastic product that requires heat-resistant and unbreakable clear plastics, like baby bottles, clear food containers, the hard lids of jars, compact discs like DVDs and even sealants used to prevent further tooth decay.

Babies that drink milk from plastic bottles, cups and glasses have been exposed. Dental patients with sealants that have been made with bisphenol A too have absorbed the chemical. In a recent CDCP study, a staggering 93% of all test subjects were positive for bisphenol A (through urine testing).

Long term studies suggest that prolonged exposure to this chemical can affect male sexual function. Other studies point to its potentially harmful effects to the human endocrine system. It turns out that this chemical can mimic estrogen, the naturally occurring female hormone that exists in both males and females. If there is a chemical that mimics estrogen, then the body will experience a chemical imbalance - and we all know what chemical imbalances can do to the body. According to the FDA, this chemical can also cause negative effects to fetuses.

Phthalates

Phthalates is used as a plastic softener and binding agent. This chemical is used on personal care products like shampoos & conditioners. It is also used in materials used in interior decoration, like vinyl tiles and bathroom curtains. Drugs that are time-released are also coated with phthalates.

Because of its widespread use, the chemical is absorbed readily by the body with every use of any product that has the chemical. A new study performed by researchers from the Mount Sinai Center reported the possible link between prenatal exposure to the chemical and ADHD. In other researchers and animal studies, this chemical has also been linked to the disruption of the endocrine system and sexual development in males.

Recently, the United States government has put a ban on six types of this class of chemicals that are used on products like toys. To reduce exposure to this chemical, avoid personal care products that only list 'fragrance' in the list of materials or ingredients. Such products may have phthalates added. You may want personal care products that actually list what they use for fragrance - there are a lot of products from companies that do not hide the chemicals they use.

PFOA

PFOA is used to manufacture products like Teflon. As such, it is found in products that make use of Teflon, like pots, pans, ladles, etc. This chemical is also added to carpeting materials, furniture and a host of other products that are wildly disassociated with each other in function.

The chemical can be also be released into the immediate environment once the products containing it are destroyed. Current research suggests that Teflon-coated cookware tend to give off vapors, which can contaminate the food being cooked in or with the Teflon-lined wares.

The chemical can also be absorbed directly through the inhalation of polluted air. In animal trials, PFOA is a known carcinogen that actually causes cancerous growths and physical development problems. To reduce your exposure to PFOA, you may opt not to use Teflon-coated cookware (use stainless steel pots, pans and ladles instead). Also, keep your heat to medium-high to reduce the vapors created when Teflon comes into contact with heat.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is used in different types of adhesives, panelings, construction boards and pressed-fabric products. Exposure to this chemical is usually through direct contact with products containing the chemical. Also, cigarette smoke and car exhaust contains formaldehyde. Formaldehyde can cause allergic reactions that can affect the entire respiratory tract. To reduce exposure, furniture should be made from exterior grade wood. This doesn't mean that the furniture will not emit formaldehyde; exterior grade wood just emits less of the chemical.

PDBE

PDBE is a class of chemicals that are added to products to reduce flammability. Products like mattresses, foams, pillows, blankets and even coverings used for furniture are 'enhanced' with PDBE. According to recent statistics, about twelve million pounds of the chemical is manufactured on a yearly basis - and the chemical does not break down that quickly. EPA studies show that this chemical can cause damage to people's kidneys and livers. Since PDBE can also be inhaled through dust, remove dust produced by old and new furniture. Also, avoid buying products that list PDBE as a fire retardant.

Nature to the rescue: detoxify with wheat grass

Wheatgrass is basically a young wheat plant. For decades, the grass has been used as food by man. And there is more reasons to enjoy wheatgrass today because it actually detoxifies the body and provides other benefits as well:

It improves the digestive function.
controls high blood pressure.
It increases the ability of the body to heal wounds quickly.
It is a natural antibiotic because it contains chlorophyll, a green pigment.
It helps prevent the progression of tooth decay.
It has been noted for its ability to delay the onset of white or gray hair.
It can be used as a general internal cleanser and detoxifying agent - to rid our bodies of accumulated toxins absorbed from food, water and the air.
It can help reduce the scarring in the lungs caused by contaminated and acidic air.
It is a natural blood purifier.
It can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with soar throat (usually caused by bacteria).
It is a natural sterilizing agent.
It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which improves the skin, helps protect the respiratory tract and also helps improve one's immunity.
It can be used as a natural mouthwash to control odor and bacterial growth in the oral cavity.
It can help improve circulation in the body by improving the condition of capillaries - the smallest blood vessels in the body.
It acts as a chelating agent, removing heavy metals like cadmium from the body.

Margarine, Fatty Acids and Your Health

To maintain good health it is important that we have the correct intake of omega fatty acids in our diets.

Hydrogenated fats like margarine are non-foods with toxic effects and should be avoided at any cost.

Health Food Labels May Deceive

Have you ever spent extra money to purchase a 'higher-quality' health food or vitamin product, only to discover some time later that it wasn't all it was claimed to be? It has happened in our family more than once. Our most recent experience was with a line of vegetable oils sold in health food stores and co-ops.

The attractively labeled bottles touted their special processing techniques, implying low temperatures and the superior quality of their product. We had used their canola oil for many years when I decided to write the company with some questions and request information on their oils.

We were shocked to find out that the "cold-pressed" and "lightly refined" canola oil was subjected to the same high temperatures (450°-500° Fahrenheit, or 232°-260° Celsius) and most of the chemical processing steps suffered by regular grocery store oils!

The main difference was that they didn't use chemical solvents to extract the oil from the seeds or add preservatives or defoamer...

Disappointed, and determined to find a source of healthy oil, I began a search for accurate information on the production of food oils to supplement my scanty knowledge. This article is the culmination of that exploration to date, and will provide you with information you need to make healthier selections of foods and oils for your family.

The Importance of Fatty Acids

Fatty acids are essential for our cells to function normally and stay alive. The cell membranes allow the passage of necessary minerals and molecules in and out of our cells.

Healthy cell membranes discourage dangerous chemicals and organisms like bacteria, viruses, moulds and parasites from entering the cell. These membranes also maintain chemical receptor sites for hormones, the body's crucial messengers. Fatty acids are involved in countless chemical processes in our bodies and are used as building blocks for certain hormones.

Two types of fatty acids&emdash;omega-3 and omega-6& emdash; cannot be made by our bodies and therefore must be obtained through our diets. They are called "essential fatty acids" (EFAs), and if we have an adequate supply we can use these EFAs to manufacture the other fatty acids we need.

EFA supplementation has been helpful to many people with allergies, anemia, arthritis, cancer, candida, depression, diabetes, dry skin, eczema, fatigue, heart disease, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), psoriasis, sluggish metabolism, viral infections, etc., and in easing the addiction recovery process...

Trans-Fats and Confused Chemistry

Naturally occurring fatty acids contain double bonds of a particular configuration, referred to as "cis-" by biochemists.

The cis-causes the molecules to be bent so that the two hydrogen atoms are on the same side of the double bond.

This means the bonds between the molecules are weaker due to their irregular shape, resulting in a lower melting point & emdash; In supermarket shopper lingo, they are solid at room temperature. Fats with either trans- double bonds or no bonds ("saturated") are solid at room temperature.

The more solid the longer the shelf life.

Margarine is made by adding hydrogen atoms to the fat molecules to make them more saturated, raising the melting point of the fat so it remains a solid at room temperature, i.e., the margarine won't run all over the table.

This process, called "hydrogenation", requires the presence of a metal catalyst and temperatures of about 500°F (260°C) for the reaction to take place. It causes about half of the cis- bonds to flip over into a trans-configuration.

Hydrogenation became popular in the US because this type of oil doesn't spoil or become rancid as readily as regular oil and therefore has a longer shelf life.

You can leave a cube of margarine sitting out for years and it will not be touched by moulds, insects or rodents. Margarine is a non-food! It would appear that only humans are foolish enough to eat it!

Because the fats in margarine are partially hydrogenated (i.e., not fully saturated), the manufacturers can claim it is "polyunsaturated" and market it to us as a healthy food.

Many other fatty chemicals are also created when oils are partially hydrogenated.

"In Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill"

Udo Erasmus stated: "So many different compounds can be made during partial hydrogenation that they stagger the imagination... Needless to say, the industry is hesitant to fund or publicize thorough and systematic studies on the kinds of chemicals produced and their effects on health."

Erasmus also quoted a statement about hydrogenation, made by Herbert Dutton, one of the oldest and most knowledgeable oil chemists in North America. It basically boils down to this: because of the known and unknown health effects of these hydrogenation by-products, government health regulations would not allow the process to be used for making edible products if it were to be introduced today.

Another 'side-effect' of hydrogenation is that a residue of toxic metals, usually nickel and aluminum, is left behind in the finished product.

And they now have linked Alzheimer's to the intake of aluminum. I have known this for 40 years. And wonder if this was the reason my mother changed so much in later life.

She used to get a mixture from the druggist of aluminum etc. as a cheap underarm deodorant. It really was effective. She used this for at least 30 years that I know of.

These metals are used as catalysts in the reaction, but they accumulate in our cells and nervous system where they poison enzyme systems and alter cellular functions, endangering health and causing a wide variety of problems. These toxic metals are difficult to eliminate without special detoxification techniques, and our 'toxic load' increases steadily with small exposures over time. Since they are increasingly found in our air, food and water, the cumulative doses can add up to dangerous levels over time.

Since trans- fats don't occur in nature, our bodies don't know how to deal with them effectively and they act as poisons to crucial cellular reactions.

The body tries to use them as it would the cis-form, and they wind up in cell membranes and other places they shouldn't be.

In recent years, measurements of trans- fats in the membranes of human red blood cells have been as high as 20 per cent, when the figure should be zero. While red blood cells were used because they're easy to access, it's safe to assume that most other cell membranes in the body also contain these unnatural fats.

Trans- fatty acids in cell membranes weaken the membrane's protective structure and function. This alters normal transport of minerals and other nutrients across the membrane and allows disease microbes and toxic chemicals to get into the cell more easily. The result: sick, weakened cells, poor organ function and an exhausted immune system, in short, lowered resistance and increased risk of disease.

Trans-fats can also derail the body's normal mechanisms for eliminating cholesterol. The liver normally puts excess cholesterol in the bile and sends it to the gall bladder, which empties into the small intestine just below the stomach.

Trans-fats block the normal conversion of cholesterol in the liver and contribute to elevated cholesterol levels in the blood.

They also cause an increase in the amount of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), considered to be one of the main instigators of arterial disease (hardening of the arteries).

Meanwhile, trans-fats lower the amount of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) which help protect the cardiovascular system from the adverse effects of the LDLs. Trans- fats also increase the level of apolipoprotein A, a substance in the blood which is another risk factor for heart disease.

Indeed, trans-fats have now been shown to cause even worse problems than saturated animal fats.

Another adverse effect of trans- fats in the diet is an enhancement of the body's pro-inflammatory hormones (prostaglandin E2) and inhibition of the anti-inflammatory types (prostaglandin E1 and E3). This undesirable influence exerted by trans- fats on prostaglandin balance may render you more vulnerable to inflammatory conditions that you don't. You want to heal!

Prostaglandins also regulate many metabolic functions. Tiny amounts can cause significant changes in allergic reaction, blood pressure, clotting, cholesterol levels, hormone activity, immune function and inflammatory response, to name just a few.

Many of these problems with trans- fats have been known or suspected for 15 to 20 years, but have been largely ignored in the US. In Europe, trans-fats are restricted in food products, and some countries allow no more than 0.1 per cent trans- fatty acid content. In contrast, margarines in the US may contain up to 30 to 50 per cent! Of course, the food industry denies there is any problem with this.

Meanwhile, scientific evidence continues to mount that trans-fats contribute to heart disease and possibly other conditions as well. Even the conservative Harvard Health Letter referred to them as "the new enemy".

Vested Interests

According to Russell Jaffe, M.D., a noted medical researcher, hog farmers will not feed trans- fats to their animals because the pigs will die if they eat them. When Dr Jaffe contacted the US Department of Agriculture, he found that it knew all about this but was not interested in the possible human effects since this area was not under its jurisdiction.

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't done anything about it, either. The fact that the food industry has succeeded in keeping a lid on public awareness of these facts is testimony to the political power it wields in governmental and scientific circles.

The food industry funds a great deal of research. People in the research community know that you can often predict the outcome of a study if you know who is funding it. In that light, it's unwise to accept blindly the press releases on 'the latest research' without considering who paid for it. There are some rather scientific-sounding foundations out there that are basically 'front' organizations for the food industry.

Fats in Our Diets

Margarine's aren't the only grocery store item with a significant amount of trans- fats. Any 'food' that lists "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" on the label contains Trans fats and should be avoided.

You may be surprised to discover how many products in your kitchen contain trans- fats. They include most baked goods such as bread and crackers, shortenings like margarine and Crisco, refined vegetable oils and most brands of peanut butter. Most peanut butter brands contain sugar or corn syrup, which stresses the pancreas and is easily converted to fat by the body.

So be sure to read the labels on packaged foods and avoid those with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil! Also avoid products containing cottonseed oil. Cotton is not considered a food crop and is heavily sprayed with highly toxic pesticides, some of which wind up in the oil.

According to Dr Jaffe, cottonseed oil also contains toxic fatty acids similar to those present in grape seed oil about 30 years ago and suspected of causing several deaths before being taken off the market. These fatty acids caused illness when fed to dogs and pigs. Cottonseed oil is commonly used to fry potato chips, and is found in numerous processed foods.

Currently, the dominant medical opinion is that fats are bad for us and should be restricted in our diets. Given the types of fats usually consumed in America, this is probably a good idea. But several studies have shown that the quantity of fat is not as important as the quality of fat and the balance of the fats in relation to each other. In fact, the essential fatty acids (mentioned earlier) help control the types of cholesterol made by the body and help prevent heart disease.

So, reducing saturated fats and unnatural trans-fats in our diets, while increasing the essential fats, would be a more prudent policy. Many scientists are now advocating this shift in emphasis.

Edward Siguel, M.D., Ph.D., is an award-winning researcher who was invited to investigate fatty acids in the Framingham Cardiovascular Offspring Study.

He recently authored a book, Essential Fatty Acids in Health and Disease.4 Dr Siguel has developed a sensitive test to determine the amounts of the various fatty acids found in humans, and has found a definite correlation with trans- fats and heart disease. He has also found that many people with heart disease have low levels of EFAs.

In a presentation at the Second Annual Symposium on Functional Medicine in 1994, he stated that insufficiency of EFA's might underlie many of the chronic diseases prevalent in Western societies. He also cautioned that low-fat diets not based on whole foods might be hazardous:

"Individuals who maintain normal or low body-weight by eating low-calorie, low-fat, processed foods, such as supermarket cereals, breads and pasta, are at high risk for EFA's insufficiency... compounded by the use of hydrogenated oils, leading to elevated levels of circulating trans- fatty acids..."

The breast milk of many US mothers also shows an excess of trans- fats and low omega-3 fatty acid content. Dr Donald Rudin, in his co-authored book, The Omega-3 Phenomenon, stated: "American mothers produce milk that often has only one-fifth to one-tenth of the omega-3 content of the milk that well-nourished, nut-eating Nigerian mothers provide their infants."5.

A revealing study was recently published by the Nutrition Research Division of Health Canada. The researchers analyzed the milk of 198 lactating mothers across Canada and found that trans- fatty acids averaged 7.2 per cent of total fatty-acid content, with a range of 0.1 to 17.2 per cent.

Further analysis of these trans- fats showed that their major source was partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (that means margarine). They also noted that elevation of these trans- fats occurred at the expense of the EFAs, thus placing the infant in double jeopardy during a crucial period of development.6 Both types of EFAs are necessary for proper development of fetal and infant tissues, especially the nervous system.

According to John Finnegan, in The Facts About Fats, the omega-3s in particular affect the parts of the brain that relate to learning ability, anxiety or depression, and auditory and visual perception. They also aid in balancing the immune system.7 A 1991 Mayo Clinic study of 19 'normal' pregnant women, eating 'normal' diets, showed that all of them were deficient in the omega-3 fatty acids and, to a lesser extent, the omega-6s

These researchers recommended that the omega-3 fatty acids be supplemented in every pregnancy, and that women avoid refined and hydrogenated fats during pregnancy.8 A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed a dramatic difference between the heart-disease rates of populations in northern and southern India.9.The northerners were meat-eaters and had high cholesterol levels.

Their main source of dietary fat was ghee (clarified butter). The southerners were vegetarians and had much lower cholesterol levels. Present-day 'wisdom' would predict the vegetarians to have the lower rate of heart disease, but, in fact, the opposite was true.

The vegetarians had 15 times the rate of heart disease when compared to their northern counterparts! What was the reason for this surprising difference? Aside from meat versus vegetables, the major dietary difference was that the southerners had replaced their traditional ghee (a real food) with margarine and refined, polyunsaturated vegetable oils. Twenty years later, the British medical journal the Lancet noted an increase in heart-attack deaths amongst the northern Indians. The northerners had also largely replaced the ghee in their diets with margarine and refined vegetable oils.

One hundred years ago, heart disease was virtually unknown. Today, two-thirds of US citizens develop heart disease. Something has clearly gone wrong with the way we are living, and one of the main factors could indeed be the introduction of over refined, over processed, devitalized oils.

Other studies support this idea. For instance, a study conducted at the Harvard School of Public Health indicated that intake of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils may contribute to the risk of heart attack.

Research by Dr Siguel has also given more weight to the theory that dietary trans-fatty acids are a risk factor for heart disease.

A report by the Danish Nutrition Council said that studies suggest that the consumption of trans- fatty acid from margarine is equally or perhaps more, responsible for the development of arteriosclerosis than saturated fatty acids.

They recommended reducing the trans- fatty acid content in all Danish margarine products to 5 per cent or less (it was then 0 to 30 per cent).

Another study done by the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, analyzed the diets of 239 patients admitted to Boston hospitals for their first heart attack, and compared them with the diets of 282 healthy control subjects. After adjusting for several lifestyle variables, they found that margarine intake was significantly associated with the risk of myocardial infarction.

A Harvard Medical School study followed more than 85,000 women over an eight-year period. The researchers compared the diets of those who developed heart disease over that time with those who did not. They found that major dietary sources of trans- fats, such as margarine, were significantly associated with higher risks of coronary heart disease.

Problems with Commercial Processing

Refined polyunsaturated vegetable oils have been very popular in the US since the anti-cholesterol fad began many years ago and the medical profession began promoting their use. When properly prepared and utilized, some of these oils are healthful sources of EFAs. Unfortunately, the standard commercial refining process destroys the EFAs and creates high levels of trans- fatty acids, while removing important natural constituents and protective agents like minerals and vitamin E.

In "The Facts About Fats and Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill," John Finnegan and Udo Erasmus describe the usual commercial refining process for vegetable oils. It begins with seeds that may contain high levels of pesticides and herbicides. The seeds are crushed and subjected to a series of chemical treatments at temperatures up to 520°F (271°C).

These treatments include the use of toxic solvents, caustic soda, preservatives and defoamers, and they result in the destruction of essential fatty acids, loss of vitamins and minerals, and the formation of trans-fatty acids and free radicals. This is exactly the opposite of what is desirable. It is all in the name of longer shelf life and consumer acceptance (what's left looks clean and pretty!). This also happens to the oils used in processed foods, which means most everything that comes in a can or a box.

Remember to read those labels! According to Finnegan and Erasmus, the "cold-pressed" or "expeller-pressed" oils available at health food stores are no guarantee of quality. Expeller-pressing still generates temperatures up to 200°F (93.3°C), and most of these oils are then refined and deodorized using basically the same nutrient-destroying process used in commercial 'grocery store' oils.

Be wary of claims like "certified organic", as there have been instances of fraudulent misrepresentation in this regard.

Some companies have been caught lying about the source of their seeds and using regular commercial seeds instead of organic ones. There have even been cases of companies simply rebottling regular oil or mayonnaise with a 'health food' label and charging higher prices.

Finnegan mentions two reputable certifying agencies: FVO (Farm Verified Organic), and OCIA (Organic Crop Improvement Association). He reports that only two companies meet his criteria for production of healthful oils: Omega Nutrition in Ferndale, WA (phone 1-800 661 3529), and Flora, Inc. in Lynden, WA (phone 1-800 446 2110 or (360) 354 2110).

He also contacted one of the most well-known producers of 'health food' oils in the nation, but they declined to discuss their oil processing methods and refused to allow him to visit their facilities.

Omega-6 oils are found primarily in vegetables and seeds.

They are converted to the E1 prostaglandin's (mentioned earlier) via several chemical steps. Most people take in enough of these fatty acids, but some have difficulty converting them to the active prostaglandin's. This blockage is commonly caused by excess trans- fats, anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin or Tylenol, or deficiencies of vitamin B6 or magnesium.

An insufficiency of omega-6 EFAs can result in auto immune problems, breast pain and lumpiness, eczema, hyperactivity in children, hypertension, inflammation. and PMS.

Dr Siguel has found that the omega-3s are the more likely to be deficient in our Western diets. Because of food processing and dietary choices, the average Western diet today contains only one-sixth the amount of omega-3 fatty acids needed for healthy function compared to a healthy balance 100 years ago. Evidence indicates that a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids is associated with arthritis and joint stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, PMS, prostate problems, various skin disorders as well as depression, phobias and schizophrenia.

The main source of omega-3s are oil from cold-water fish (such as mackerel, sardines, tuna, trout and salmon). These fish should not be fried because of the effect of the high temperatures involved and the resultant free-radical damage.

Unlike chicken and turkey, cold-water fish should be eaten with the skin on, as this is where the highest concentration of desirable fats is located.

There is some concern about eating fish frequently, due to the chemical and heavy-metal pollution in the oceans.

Predatory fish concentrate these pollutants in their fatty tissues, but deep-ocean fish are usually less tainted than coastal species. Freshwater fish near agricultural, industrial or mining areas are best avoided due to their high-level intake of toxic chemicals. Farm-raised fish are fed something akin to pet food and should be avoided; they are not as healthy and have insignificant levels of omega-3 fatty acids.

The healthiest foods are usually organically grown and should be eaten close to their natural state. Certified organic seeds and grains are available at most food co-ops. Eating organically grown seeds and other foods is strongly recommended for minimizing chemical intake and optimizing nutrient content. When consuming whole foods, we get a complex array of nutrients which naturally work together to fuel the intricate chemistry that keeps our bodies going, but many of these nutrients are normally lost in commercial processing.

Even the most painstaking human efforts to produce healthy packaged foods and oils always fall short of nature's accomplishments. The best oils are provided by nature, neatly packaged to prevent oxidation of their precious contents

Use butter instead of margarine or shortening in cooking.

Butter has some problems, too, such as residual hormones and pesticides, but it is a whole food. Whole foods have fat-mobilizing nutrients to take care of their own fats if eaten in moderation. If you want to use butter, try to get organically produced butter.

Do not fry or sauté with "polyunsaturated" light oils such as safflower, sunflower or cornoils. They oxidize readily into damaging free-radicals at high temperatures.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can tear into your cells and start nasty chain reactions that can leave behind extensive damage, including alteration of your genetic code (DNA) and formation of cancer cells. Free radicals are widely considered to play a major role in degenerative disease.

Try non-hydrogenated peanut butter, available in some grocery stores and all food co-ops. The peanut butter will separate, with the oil floating to the top of the container. The best brand is probably Arrowhead Mills. They sun-dry their organic peanuts to avoid growth of a common mould that produces aflatoxin, which is as toxic as the name suggests.

Most commercial peanuts reportedly have aflatoxin as well as pesticide residues. Almond or walnut butters contain healthier fats than peanut butter, without the mould problem.

You can find them at food co-ops and health food stores.

The greater your intake of unsaturated fats like vegetable oils and fish oils (EPA/DHA omega-3s), the more you need antioxidant protection against free-radical damage.

Many studies support its effectiveness in reducing risk of heart disease, arthritis and other free-radical- related diseases.

Raising Public Awareness

There are still holdouts within the 'scientific' community, particularly those employed or funded by the food industry, who claim there is not yet sufficient proof that trans- fats are dangerous, and then cite studies that justify their position.

This is the name of the game in modern-day 'science' where egos and money are involved.

However, most studies currently appearing in the literature support the idea that these chemically-altered fats are harmful. In such cases of conflict, I always side with Mother Nature: she is much wiser than we will ever be! Remember that most of this information about trans- fats has been known for many years, but processors have succeeded in keeping the issue out of the public eye; another example of caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) in the food industry.

References:

Erasmus, Udo, Ph.D., Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill, Alive Books, Burnaby, BC, Canada, 1987, 1993.
Harvard Health Letter, Summer 1994
Jaffe, Russell, M.D., Lipids (audiotape), 1992.
Siguel, Edward, M.D., Ph.D., Essential Fatty Acids in Health and Disease, Nutrek Press, Brookline, MA, USA, 1995
Rudin, Donald, M.D., and Felix, Clara, The Omega-3 Phenomenon, Rawson, New York, USA, 1987.
Lipids, March 1996, 31:Suppl:S27982.
Finnegan, John, N.D., The Facts About Fats, Celestial Arts Publishing, Berkeley, CA, USA, 1993.
"Deficiency of essential fatty acids and membrane fluidity during pregnancy and lactation", Biochemistry, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, USA, vol. 88, June 1991.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1967,

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Natural Anxiety & Depression Relief

by Sherry Brescia

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 40 million Americans over the age of 18 have some type of anxiety disorder.

The typical treatment for them is, of course, dangerous drugs.

Here's a quick lowdown on the drug options.

Tranquilizers and benzodiazepines

One of the drug options is tranquilizers and benzodiazepines (like Xanax, Valium, Klonopin and Ativan).

Sure, they curb some feelings of anxiety, but at what price? Here are some of the common side effects:

Drowsiness, lack of energy
Clumsiness, slow reflexes
Confusion and disorientation
Impaired thinking and judgment
Memory loss, forgetfulness
Nausea, stomach upset
Blurred or double vision

That would make me even more anxious...

Plus long-term benzodiazepine users are often depressed, and higher doses of the drugs can increase the risk of both depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings.

In addition, benzodiazepines cause emotional blunting or numbness and block the feelings of pleasure or pain.

"Walking zombie" would describe it well. Not a pretty sight.

SSRIs

The other option for anxiety treatment is even worse -- antidepressants or SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake

Inhibitors).

Examples are Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and Celexa.

These are the "published" side effects of these legalized poisons:

Nausea
Nervousness (yes--they worsen a condition they're supposed to "help")
Headaches
Sleepiness
Sexual dysfunction
Dizziness
Stomach upset
Weight gain

Pretty depressing...

And here's the kicker--What the drug ads don't tell you is that anxiety and depression are NOT even the result of low serotonin levels to begin with!

The elevated levels of serotonin caused by these drugs can cause changes in your cell neurons that can be classified as brain damage.

How bout that?

Plus ALL antidepressants are required by the FDA to carry a warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts, hostility, and agitation.

Tell you what--I feel anxiety just THINKING about these dangerous chemicals.

There's got to be a better way

Luckily, there is a better way to combat anxiety and depression.

By using a "natural" drug.

Food.

You see, anxiety and depression are very often caused by or associated with excess acidity in the body and/or nutritional deficiencies, and both of these are a result of the food you eat.

Many people who suffer from anxiety disorders are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals, especially B-complex vitamins and magnesium.

The typical diet most people have which is loaded with processed foods and refined carbohydrates is not only inherently nutrient deficient, but it makes your body's pH more acidic. So your body uses up its alkaline minerals (including magnesium and calcium) to neutralize the acid.

Mental AND physical

The typical acid-forming diet is also a BIG reason why digestive problems and anxiety or depression go hand in hand for many people.

Not only does the anxiety aggravate GI disorders because the of brain-gut connection, but the acid-creating foods

they're eating hamper their digestion and nutrient absorption affect them physically as well.

Conditions like IBS, diverticulitis, colitis and acid reflux are all a direct result of poor digestion. And all the antacids, PPIs, benzodiazepines and SSRIs in the world won't change that.

The great news is that increasing numbers of people are seeing a dramatic improvement in their anxiety symptoms AND their digestive problems once they eat more real foods and increase the alkalinity in their body.

Sheri is an excellent example of this.

She suffered from colitis, IBS and anxiety...but has seen drastic improvements since she changed her diet.

And she's been able to cut her SSRIs in half so far!

Here's her story:

Sherry:

I have been on your Great Taste No Pain program for 1 month now.

I cannot believe how well I feel!

I have high anxiety and it affects my digestive system immensely. Just eating properly like you teach has been a Godsend for me.

My colitis is under control, as well as my IBS. I LOVE the cookbook and really enjoy trying the recipes--I have loved everyone that I've eaten.

Thank you for giving me good health and hope to go out and not suffer from pain or embarrassment.

I have even been able to reduce my prescription of Paxil in HALF, plus I have not needed any liquid antacid or even heavy relaxers under stress-filled circumstances.

I just can't thank you enough!

Sheri

*******************

Sherry Brescia: Sheri, you are living proof of the dramatic difference your diet can make with both your physical and mental health. I know you'll continue to feel better and better every day, and am confident the SSRIs will become a thing of the past for you. All my best to you.

**********

If you or someone you know is plagued with anxiety or depression and related digestive problems (or other physical symptoms), know this:

When you make food your drug, make your pH more alkaline and nourish your body like it needs to be, both your body AND mind will say thank you in countless ways.

You can accomplish these important goals simply by following my advice in the Great Taste No Pain health system.

Great Taste No Pain is not a diet--it's a lifestyle that helps you attain a good acid/alkaline balance and efficient digestion.

There are just a few simple principles to remember, and I explain it all in everyday language. It will make perfect sense to you, and you'll wonder why your doctor never talked to you about this.

Stop being a slave to dangerous, life-altering chemicals and instead start feeling great as you enjoy some positively scrumptious food.

Let Great Taste No Pain be YOUR Godsend.

To your health,

Sherry Brescia

PS: Louise's 12 year son has gotten relief from colitis:

*******************

Dear Sherry,

Thank you for your Great Taste No Pain system.

My son, Brendan, is twelve. In the past several months he has had stomach cramps, a bloody stool, and has spent an inordinate amount of time in the bathroom with diarrhea.

I am not much into invasive medical procedures. I started researching colitis, since this is what my husband had when he was my son's age.

I came upon your site, and I bought the system.

In one week's time, my son is experiencing almost no cramps, and the bleeding has decreased dramatically, as

well as the trips to the bathroom.

He finds this way of eating easy, and he does not complain about it.

I have a lot of hope that this will be the answer to a prayer.

Again, thank you.

Louise

Please take this to heart. Everyone reading this has toxic waste in their body. Toxic waste collects all over, especially in the kidneys and your health suffers drastically, as the toxins increase, the body starts to shut down and die. One way to help rid yourself of toxic waste is to make sure you drink half your weight in ounces of water daily this helps to flushing flush toxins from your system.

I don't know where this originated... but, it sure makes interesting reading..

This is really an eye opener... Water or Coke? We all know that water is important but I've never seen it written down like this before.

Water or Coke?

WATER

75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.
In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger.
Even MILD dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%.
One glass of water will shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a University of Washington study.
Lack of water, the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.
Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page.
Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.

And now for the properties of COKE:

In many states (in the USA) the highway patrol carries two gallons of coke in the truck to remove blood from the highway after a car accident.
You can put a T-bone steak in a bowl of coke and it will be gone in two days.
To clean a toilet: Pour a can of Coca-Cola in! to the toilet bowl and let the "real thing" sit for one hour, th en flush clean. The citric acid in Coke removes stains from vitreous China.
To remove rust spots from chrome car bumpers: Rub the bumper with a rumpled-up piece of Reynolds Wrap aluminum foil dipped in Coca-Cola.
To clean corrosion from car battery terminals: Pour a can of Coca-Cola over the terminals to bubble away the corrosion.
To loosen a rusted bolt: Applying a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola to the rusted bolt for several minutes.
To bake a moist ham: Empty a can of Coca-Cola into the baking pan, wrap the ham in aluminum foil, and bake. Thirty minutes before the ham is finished, remove the foil, allowing the drippings to mix with the Coke for a sumptuous brown gravy.
To remove grease from clothes: Empty a can of coke into a load of greasy clothes, add detergent, and run through a regular cycle. The Coca-Cola will help loosen grease stains.
It will also clean road haze from your windshield.

Other Info:

The active ingredient in Coke is phosphoric acid. Its pH is 2.8. It will dissolve a nail in about 4 days. Phosphoric acid also leaches calcium from bones and is a major contributor to the rising increase in osteoporosis.
To carry Coca-Cola syrup (the concentrate) the commercial truck must use the Hazardous material place cards reserved for Highly corrosive materials.
The distributors of coke have been using it to clean the engines of their trucks for about 20 years!

Now the question is, would you like a coke or a glass of water?

Have A Great Day and Share This With Others

Bee/Hornet Sting Remedy

Thanks again to Ray for this article.

Wish I knew this when my daughter was young. She used to really swell up and suffer during childhood. The bees seemed to go right to her and not the other kids.

If it you have a allergy to Bee or Hornet stings get medical attention right away.

*** Start of article***

A couple of weeks ago I was unfortunate enough to get stung by both a bee and hornet while working in the garden.

My arm swelled up so off to the doctor I went. The clinic gave me cream and an antihistamine.

The next day the swelling was getting progressively worse so off to my regular doctor I went. Infected arm - needed an antibiotic. What was interesting is what the Dr. told me. The next time you get stung put a penny on the bite for 15 minutes. I thought, wow next time (if there ever is one) I will try it.

Well that night Shelley's niece got stung by two bees. When she came over to swim I looked at the bite and it had already started to swell. So off I went to get my money. Taped a penny to her arm for 15 minutes. The next morning, there was no sign of a bite. Wow were we surprised. Her niece we decided, just wasn't allergic to the sting.

Well guess what happened again on Saturday night. I was helping Shelley deadhead her flowers and

guess what? You are right I got stung again two times by a hornet on my left hand. Was I tickled. I thought, here I go again having to go to the doctor for yet another antibiotic.

Well I promptly went into the house, again got my money out, and taped two pennies to my bites and then sat and sulked for 15 minutes. The penny took the sting out of the bite immediately.

I still wasn't sure what was going to happen. In the meantime the hornets were attacking Shelley and she got stung on the thumb. Again the penny. The next morning I could only see the spot where he had stung me. No redness, no swelling. Went over to see Shelley and hers was the same. Couldn't even tell where she got stung. Then Shelley got stung again on Monday night on her back---cutting the grass.

Again it worked.

Just wanted to share the marvelous information in case any of you are experiencing the same problem at home. We need to have a stock of pennies on hand at school and at home.

The Dr. said somehow the copper in the penny counteracts the bite. I would never had believed it.

But it definitely does work.

So remember this little bit of wisdom and pass it on to your friends, children, grandchildren, etc.

Stress… What really is the DANGER ZONE? Are you in it yet?

Do you feel you are under stress of any kind?

It can be a large thing or a small thing or a combination of both. It can happen to us at any age. Young children, teenagers, mothers, fathers, grandparents.

It can sneak up on you or hit you like a ton of bricks.

You can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders or that if one more negative thing happens you will just bust wide open.

Or you could just lie in bed at night and worry, worry, worry.

Is there help? Yes. Read on.

Millions of Americans are at risk. AT a recent national poll by Careerbuild more than half of workers said they are under a great deal of stress. 77% reported feeling burned out.

No one is immune. NO ONE.

One way to spot if your life is spiraling out of control is to ask yourself this questions… What do I want?

According to University of Calif. Berkeley…"Many people, especially those caring for others, get to a point where their is an imbalance between their own feeling of being human and their facing difficult, distressful issues on a day- to -day basis. Things that go tilt."

If you do not recognize what's going on and make some changes, your health suffers, the quality of your work suffers, and you spiral downward.

What do YOU want? You are only going to live once. Years are slipping by. What do YOU want?

What causing this? Too little control? Too much work? Too much of the wrong work? Finding it hard to deal with others? Too many things you have not handled before going to bed?

It can be a big thing or a little thing.

One of my examples is that when I was in my thirties and had 4 children and my ill darling Grandmother living with us and bed ridden.

After a little more than a year she died. I handled it like a pro. No tears, just a tremendous sadness. She was my mentor, my sunshine. My kids adored her.

About 3 months later someone ran over my children's dog and it dies. I completely lost control, I cried and cried.

Was I crying over the dog? NO. I was crying over my beloved Grandmother.

I must have been really hiding the stress of her dying very deep.

What would have happened if the dog had not died? I might have really had a break down from holding in my feelings.

You have to feel that your job, or a relationship is worth doing.

You have to be getting recognition for what you are doing. You have to feel you are not expendable.

Even if you love you job etc you can feel stress. Can you set boundaries on your feelings? Do you hate your job?

My husband Warren was responsible for ¾ of his company in sales. He was busy day and night and sometimes gone for a week. One week he got about an hour of sleep due to trying to convince the owner of the company not to do something that Warren thought would hurt his salespeople.

He won. Was he stressed out? No. He would sometimes look in the mirror while shaving and say, what a day ahead and the company is even paying me to do this. WOW…

He cautioned everyone to ask himself or herself if they liked their job. His father told him when he got out of school to find work he liked. Or quit that job. He never forgot it.

Either love what you do or change it. OR change your attitude towards what you are doing if possible.

At 83 I love what I am doing. I go to bed feeling so grateful for the fact that I help people to help themselves to FANTASIC HEALTH.

If you add a toxic work environment to a stress life at home you are a walking time bomb.

Stress is the greatest danger to your health. What to do?

Make time for yourself. Find a time and place each day for 20 minutes to calm yourself.
Analyze what you hate and what you love about you like. Be honest. NO one needs to know.
Settle for less than perfect. Accept that things will go wrong. That your well-laid plans will be disrupted.
Don't be available to others 24/7.
Take care of yourself. Eat healthy foods. Drink half your weight in ounces of water a day. When you feel tired or hungry just drink a glass of water instead of food. (if a person has a heart attack and you are there the first thing is dial 911, the second thing is force them to drink a full glass of water. Research has shown this has saved many from death.
Find someone to talk to.
Set limits of what you are willing to do for others. Learn the art of "Saying NO." In nice way when someone is asking you to do something you really do not want to do for them is smile and say, I would love to do that for you but I just can't. They deep down hear the first part and forget the last part.
Plan for the future. Warren and I had a saying we would use in times of stress. He had a very rare eye problem. We had 4 children. If something came up he would look at me and say…Well, I'm not blind and you're not pregnant.

I know it is trite but we only have today. Yesterday is gone, Tomorrow is may never come, so Live for Today.

Sleep Your Way to Better Health

by Dr. Mark Wiley, The Healthy Back Institute

As a person who has suffered from excruciating headaches and musculo-skeletal pain for the better part of 30 years, let me assure you that sound sleep is a wonder pill nobody can do without.

Sleep is not only a fundamental human need, it is a necessity that no one who experiences aches or pains of any kind should ever take for granted. It is so important, in fact, we naturally fall asleep when our bodies tells our brains that certain essential chemicals have been depleated and our muscles and ligaments are tired and in need of restoration.

The growing problem is how many of us rely on legal stimulants such as coffee, tea and sodas, to force ourselves to continue plugging away. Work, after all, cannot be held back by pleading there are just not enough hours in the week. The result? We stay up too late, we get up too early, and to do this, we consume unhealthy amounts of toxic substances-night after night after night.

The net result? For the better part of our adult lives, we and our coworkers are both sick AND tired; and it is constantly taking its toll. Let's look at some of the damage we've done to ourselves by not simply going to sleep when we were tired.

Lack of sleep causes: poor concentration, slower reaction times, decreased performance levels, less ability to learn and compartmentalize new skills and knowledge, more frequent memory lapses, increases in simple injuries and accidents, adverse changes in moods and behaviors, increased frequency of headaches, neck and shoulder pain, backaches, fatigue and overload of toxic consumption.

Why does this happen? During sleep, our body is actually working to repair itself. The liver purifies blood, the muscles repair, serotonin increases. Without ample sleep, these things do not happen at optimal levels.

In our natural circadian rhythm, or biological clock, sleep is set to take over during the evening hours. We are genetically programmed to get up and lie down with the sun. So it was the invention of artificial sources of light (candles and bulbs) that began our stressed-out drive for more working hours at the expense of much-needed rest.

What's the big deal, you ask, if you sleep only a few hours per night? You can always drink coffee, take NoDoze caffeine pills, cat naps... life is good. Well, not really. Did you know that in clinical tests rats die within a few short weeks of sleep deprivation? And it's not just rats at risk.

Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, attention deficit disorder, chronic migraine and headache, body aches and pain, mental illness, depression and anxiety are all in part caused-or made worse--by lack of sleep. And no caffeine pill or taurine-laced energy drink can cure these dangerous side-effects of our global-economy-size work loads.

It's not just office workers at risk, either. Did you know that it has been proven in numerous studies that sleep-deprived children learn at slower rates and are less social than their well-rested counterparts?

And let's talk about motor accidents. Sleep-deprived drivers, especially truckers, make up 25% of all roadway accidents... and are even more likely to result in death or serious injury than drunk driving!

How about those unfortunate people who have attempted suicide in their lives? It has been found that their sleep is fraught with tension and nightmares. These disturbances, of course, lead to further lack of sleep, which causes lower levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, resulting in greater depression and the return of suicidal thoughts. A vicious cycle!

You say, for you, it isn't a crazy work schedule? You just have trouble drifting off and staying asleep? Here are some tips for those who may suffer from insomnia.

Do not consume ANY sugar or caffeine after 6:00pm.
Stop working at least two hours before bedtime.
Turn off the computer and television at least one hour before bedtime.
Make sure your sleeping quarters are as dark and silent as possible. Studies have shown that those in darker and quieter spaces tend to sleep through the night more deeply than others.
Establish a sleep/wake schedule, and stick to it.
Make a set routine out of bedtime. Change into pajamas, brush your teeth, set out clothes for the morning, even jot down any last thoughts but promise yourself to revisit them tomorrow, then turn off the light... breathe deeply, relax, sleep tight.
If a racing mind is nagging, slow your breath and focus on the sensation of air as it passes through your nose. This will derail those busy thoughts to help you drift off.

And for those who exercise at night... flip the schedule. It's keeping you up by moving blood and energy through your system. Researcher at Stanford University School of Medicine found that adults aged 55 - 75 who engaged in 20-30 minutes of low-impact exercise (like walking) every other day in the afternoon, were able to fall asleep in half their normal time. What's more, their sleep duration increased on average by one full hour!

What does all this mean? Your mom was right. Good health begins as easily and naturally as going out for a walk and putting in plenty of sack time. Try, if possible, for a straight eight hours. And maybe think about buying a new set of sheets, to celebrate the new healthier happier sounder-sleeping you!

If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or both, you can evaluate a free bottle of Sleepzyme, a natural and extremely effective sleep aid. Here is detailed information about Sleepzyme and how to get a FREE bottle.

Tolerating Heat

Water is the key to good health. The basic rule of thumb is to drink 1/2 your body weight in ounces of water each day. For example: A person weighing 150 pounds should drink 75 ounces (Six 12 ounce glasses) per day.

BUT KEEP IN MIND...

When exercising, your body can produce 10 times more heat than when resting. The evaporation of sweat is the primary way that this heat is dispelled and the body temperature is kept under control. So, if you are an average-sized individual, you might lose 2 quarts of sweat each hour of tennis through evaporation, and even more in hot weather.

Sweat loss reduces plasma volume (fluid part of blood) and subsequently the nutrient and oxygen supply to the working muscles. More important, the depletion of body water makes you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

Humidity

The moisture in the air has a significant impact on your body's heat regulation process. High humidity, above about 80%, limits the evaporation of sweat because the air is already highly saturated with water. As a result, the cooling potential of vaporizing sweat is reduced or lost as the moisture simply pours off your body onto the court.

Heat Index

The combination of heat and humidity is reported as the heat index or the apparent temperature readings. This index gives you an idea of what the hot and humid air feels like to the average person. If, for instance, the air temperature is 85 degrees and the humidity is 85%, the apparent temperature is about 100 degrees. When heat index reports are 95 to 105 degrees, you will fatigue more quickly while exercising, and you are more susceptible to heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Above 105 degrees, there is a risk of heat stroke with prolonged activity.

Acclimatization

By exercising regularly in hot weather, you can condition your body to the heat to some extent. Your body adjusts, for example, by increasing the liquid part of your blood. This improves sweating capacity and allows your body to store more heat with a smaller temperature gain. Heat acclimatization takes about seven to 14 days. However, it is lost in just a few days.

Odor

Water and salt are the main ingredients of sweat, and they don't smell. But sweat becomes unpleasant when associated with the growth and decomposition of bacteria. This happens when perspiration remains on the skin for a few hours and when the feet are encased in warm, airless shoes for a long time. In addition, the sweat from glands located in the armpits and groin often produces an odor since this moisture contains proteins and fatty materials that encourage bacterial growth.

Age

Aging doesn't appear to seriously affect sweating, or how well we tolerate heat. It's true that during heat waves, older people are more susceptible to heat illness. But separating the effects of disease in such instances is often difficult. Moreover, many of these victims are unacclimated, unfit, and relatively obese.

Gender

Women in general have a lower sweat rate and higher percentage of body fat (which reduces heat loss) than men. This tends to make women a little less tolerant of the heat. However, for well-conditioned and relatively trim females, who are acclimatized to the heat, gender differences are negligible.

Fluid Replacement

On a normal non-exercise day, you need to consume (in total) about 2 quarts of liquid to replace normal body fluid losses. Eight cups of this should come from drinking water and other beverages (except alcohol and caffeine drinks which increase urine production). The remainder, roughly two cups, comes from solid foods. Everything we eat contains water. Fruits and vegetables are 85% to 96% water, for instance, and even a steak is 50% water.

When exercising, water requirements increase dramatically. Approximately 1/2 to one quart of fluids per hour (2-4 cups) is required to replace the sweat loss during moderate physical activity. In hot weather, the liquid requirement during exercise is higher, depending upon temperature and level of play. In addition, you should drink several cups of water before play and again after the exercise is finished.

Toe Fungus Remedies

Here are a few my daughter came across while searching the internet to find a natural way to help me heal my toe fungus. My big toe has been plaguing me for a several years. I have tried several products with no results.

The Epsom Salt Soaks is the first one I tried and the only thing that has helped. I saw results within the first week and it continues to improve each day. My toe looks healthy, the nail is growing back clear and strong.

Epsom Salt Soaks

Author Unknown

Soaking the affected foot in Epsom salt mixed with hot water will help wash away fungus and improve circulation to the nail bed. However Epsom salt is not an antifungal treatment so while this may provide temporary relief it is not a cure, but more of one weapon in the arsenal.

At least once or twice a day, preferably three times a day, soak your affected toes in a shallow pan or container with very hot water and a palm full of Epsom salt (a few tablespoons of Epsom salt). I used very hot water (boiled water cooled enough to tolerate soaking) for my treatment. I am not sure if room temperature water is also effective, but at present I suspect very hot water works better. I boiled water and added it to a shallow pan and as soon as it was comfortable to soak my toes, I poured the Epsom salt over my toes and nails. I soaked my toes for at least 15 to 20 minutes while watching TV or reading a book. If the water was initially too hot, I would just dip my toes in it to get them wet, poured Epsom salt directly on the nails and waited a little till the water was hot but not overly hot to be painful. As your toes are soaking in the water, you can add more Epsom salt directly over the toenails to have a higher concentration of the magnesium sulfate right on top of the toenails. Let the nails be fully surrounded and covered with the Epsom salt. It really doesn't matter as much how much of the Epsom salt is in the rest of the pan. What matters is that there is a good amount of Epsom salt directly over and surrounding the toenails.

Here's a great idea that works even better. If you happen to spend a lot of time by your computer or desk, keep your toes in a thick soup of Epsom salt as long as you wish, the longer the better, even if it is several hours a day. This will speed your healing. It is a good idea to trim your nails very close to the skin, and file your nails as much as you can before soaking. In this case of extended soaking, you may not need to heat the water.

You can soak your toes in a shallow pan with about half an inch of water. One option is to put a folded towel under the pan so that the water is deeper on the toe end rather than the sole end. Add the Epsom salt directly on the toes that are immersed on the deeper end of the pan so that your toenails are completely drowned and surrounded by the Epsom salt-soaked water. This is worth repeating since it is the most crucial part of the treatment.

I am not sure if soaking the feet in Epsom salt more than twice a day will heal the toe nail fungus sooner, but if you are motivated to do so, and have the time, go ahead and do it three or more times a day. If you have the time and the motivation, perhaps four times a day could help you get rid of the nail fungus infection even quicker (or, you have the option as listed above of soaking your toes for several hours at a time while you are working at your computer). One option is to soak in the morning before putting your shoes on for work, then soaking again at lunch or mid afternoon, and again before going to bed. The idea is to not let too much time pass between soaking to prevent the fungus from growing.

In order for this natural toe nail fungus treatment to be effective, you have to keep your feet out of shoes and socks as much as possible. Wear sandals as much as possible. The more time your feet spend in socks or shoes, the more difficult it will be for you to get rid of the toe nail fungal infection.

If you have to wear shoes, for instance at work, at least take them off during lunch, soak your feet in the Epsom salt, and wear new socks and a different pair of shoes the rest of the afternoon and take your shoes off as soon as you get home. Even better, put your shoes on at the last minute. For instance, if you drive to work, wear sandals until you reach the parking lot, and then put them on. After work, remove your shoes when you get to your car. People working out of home are fortunate since they can have bare feet all day.

Sleep at night with your feet outside of the blanket. If you feet get cold, wear socks with the tips cut off so that at least your toes are open to the air. If your feet are inside the blanket, the fungi will like the warmth.

Basically, the idea is to kill the fungus in the nails. Fungi love heat, moistness, and humidity. The cooler and drier you keep your toes and feet, the quicker they will heal. Magnesium sulfate acts as a powerful drying agent. Perhaps it also directly kills the fungi, but I don't know for sure. You will notice that treatment with Epsom salt will make your feet dry.

Distilled Vinegar

Author Unknown

Distilled vinegar is a diluted form of acetic acid. This chemical will naturally attack the fungal infection. If you take a q-tip or similar applicator and soak it in the vinegar for a few seconds and apply it to the affected toenail. It will take several applications to get adequate coverage and it will need to be repeated frequently. Try doing this twice a day - once in the morning and once at night.

Oregano and Olive Oil

Author Unknown

Oregano mixed with olive oil to make a paste for the toenail is a treatment that addresses the basic problems of toenail fungus. It seeps in under the remaining nail and the oregano has natural antibacterial and anti parasitical properties. The oil helps distribute the oregano throughout the nail and nail bed.

Thyme Oil

Author Unknown

Thyme Oil is extracted from a powerful antifungal plant. Applying few drops of thyme oil on the affected area twice a day will work wonders against the infection. One needs to ensure that they cover the toenail with a cotton sock after applying the oil.

Coconut Oil

Author Unknown

The coconut oil is the common household item irrespective of any country. Many success stories about the usage of coconut oil that are going round in the internet and magazines, that it gives amazing results in curing the toenail fungus. All one has to do is just apply the coconut oil over the affected toenail.

The toe area must be massaged after applying the coconut oil. This will enable the oil to reach the parts under the toenail. The toenail fungus problem will be cured completely after few months of regular use. The coconut oil is available everywhere and the cost of the same is also cheap. The application is so simple that the person will have no problem. The coconut oil can also be rubbed around the unaffected toenails in order to prevent the toenail fungus.

Pomegranate - An amazing fruit.

The pomegranate is a round fruit about the size of a large orange. It has a smooth, reddish-pink rind that holds hundreds of seeds in a juicy, red pulp. Pomegranate juice is extracted from the seeds of the fruit.

The pomegranate flowers are used to make red dye. The juice is used for the production of grenadine. Because of its high tannin content the rind can be used to tan leather.

Pomegranate juice is high in vitamin C and potassium, and a good source of fiber that is low in calories. It is mainly used as a health drink.

According to the American Dietetic Association, 3.5 oz of 100% Pomegranate juice equals one fruit serving for diabetics.

Phytochemicals - Pomegranate bark contains Punicotannic Acid, Gallic Acid , Mannite, Pelletierine and N-Methylisopelletierine. Pomegrante juice contains Ellagitannins, Pelargonidin, Punicalin, Punicalagin, Anthocyanins, Cyanidin, Ellagic Acid.

Most of the phytochemicals are found in the rind of the fruit. The roots and bark are also used.

Pomegranate juice is high in three different types of polyphenols, a potent form of antioxidant. The three types - tannins, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid - are present in many fruits, but Pomegranate juice contains particularly high amounts of all three. As antioxidants, they are credited with helping in the prevention of cancer and heart disease.

Carefully read juice labels and look for products containing 100 percent Pomegranate juice, and not a combination of juices. Contents are listed in order of the largest amounts by weight on the ingredient panel.

Drinking Pomegranate juice is generally safe, the juice can affect how certain medications, including ACE inhibitors and other blood pressure medications, work in your body. It may affect how your body metabolizes a variety of other drugs.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if Pomegranate juice will interact with any medications you're taking. Also because the juice contains high levels of potassium, people who must avoid potassium should not drink Pomegranate juice.

The pomegranate has been traditionally used as medicine in many countries.

Several research publications show that pomegranate is active and helps to maintain good health. There are scientific publications showing that pomegranate and pomegranate components are significant for:

Heart Disease

According to a new study, antioxidants contained in Pomegranate juice may help reduce the formation of fatty deposits on artery walls. Antioxidants are compounds that limit cell damage.

In several human clinical trials, the juice of the pomegranate has been found effective in reducing several heart risk factors, including LDL oxidation, macrophage oxidative status, and foam cell formation, all of which are steps in atherosclerosis and heart disease. Pomegranate has been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure.

Diarrhea

Pomegranate juice is a mild astringent, used to treat diarrhea, and reduces some fevers.

Anti-parasites

The root bark is used to treat intestinal parasites, mainly tapeworm. The alkaloids narcotise the tapeworms so they lose their grip to the intestinal wall and are expelled. These alkaloids are also very toxic and should not be used for self-medication.

Antioxidant

Pomegranate contains many phytochemicals with antioxidant action, Pomegranate bark contains Punicotannic Acid, Gallic Acid , Mannite, Pelletierine and N-Methylisopelletierine. Pomegrante juice contains Ellagitannins, Pelargonidin, Punicalin, Punicalagin, Anthocyanins, Cyanidin, Ellagic Acid. Ellagic acid has anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic and antifibrosis activity.

Skin Whitening

Studies have shown that ellagic acid can suppress UV-induced skin pigmentation when applied topically or when administered orally. Mineka Yoshimura and colleagues have shown in their study "Inhibitory Effect of an Ellagic Acid-Rich Pomegranate Extract on Tyrosinase Activity and UV-induced Pigmentation" (Bioscience, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, 2005) that pomegranate extract has skin-whitening property. This effect was probably caused by the inhibition of proliferation of melanocytes and melanin synthesis.

Inhibition of inflammation

Pomegranate inhibits nuclear transcription factor kappa B (Nf-kappaB) - a key player in induction of inflammatory responses.

Prevention of chemically-induced cancer development (breast, prostate) in various experimental models

Pomegranates inhibit proliferation of breast and prostate cancer cells in vitro.

Pomegranates inhibit metastasis of cancer cells in vitro.

Pomegranates were found helpful during chemotherapy of prostate cancer in humans.

Pomegranate shows anti-angiogenic activity in vitro. These observations indicate rather broad mechanisms of action on cancer cells. From one angle, pomegranate inhibits multiplication of cancer cells in vitro, from another one, cancer cells can not grow in 3D and this result strongly suggests an anti-metastasis effect. In addition, pomegranate inhibits development of microvessels induced by cancer cells and this feature is a key one in the process of tumor mass growth.

The study, sponsored by a pomegranate juice company and presented at a urology meeting, involved 48 men. By drinking 8 ounces of pomegranate juice a day, their PSA doubling time increased to 37 months, compared with 15 months before they began drinking the juice.

"The quicker the doubling time, the faster the spread of the cancer," said co-author Allan Pantuck, an assistant professor of urology at UCLA.

Reducing anti-oxidative stress

Pomegranate inhibits oxidation of LDL, reduces hypertension and reduces common carotid intimamedia thickness in humans. It makes pomegranate well-suited for the prevention and reduction of cardiovascular disease conditions. Other studies report similar results which conclude that pomegranate is potent in the prevention of LDL oxidation and reducing hypertension.

Reducing bacterial, fungal and viral infections

Pomegranate significantly reduces the clinical sign of periodontitis. Other studies show that the growth of Staphylococcus aureus is inhibited by pomegranate.

Pomegranate inhibits candidosis associated with denture stomatitis (a common oral mucosal lesion in the United States and Western Europe).

Pomegranate inhibits entry of the HIV virus into human cells. Substances that are found in the pomegranate binds the virus entity which prevents the virus from invading human cells. This makes pomegranate a powerful ingredient for the development of gel-like products for the prevention of sexually transmitted HIV infection.

Showing neuroprotective activity

Pomegranate prevents and reduces symptoms of hypoxic-ischemic brain damage.

It could be concluded, based on present scientific knowledge, that a variety of the health benefits of pomegranate are due to its combined anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative potency.

Most of the health conditions mentioned above depend on proper oxidative balance within the body and reduced inflammation status as well.

Several oxidized molecules in the body may trigger inflammatory response, for example oxidized LDL. The role of inflammation and antioxidants is well defined in the process of cancer development and progression.

Reduction of bacterial and HIV infections is unlikely related to the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory potency of pomegranate. It is rather related to another class of compounds capable of binding bacteria or HIV virus, preventing from further spread and propagation within the host body.

REFERENCES:

Effect of Pomegranate on Cancers

1. Support ellagic acid therapy in patients with hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC) on standard chemotherapy using vinorelbine and estramustine phosphate. Falsaperla M, Morgia G, Tartarone A, Ardito R, Romano G. Eur Urol 2005 Apr; 47(4):449-55.

2. Anthocyanin - and hydrolyzable tannin-rich pomegranate fruit extract modulates MAPK and NF-kappaB pathways and inhibits skin tumorigenesis in CD-1 mice. F Afaq, M Saleem, CG Krueger, JD Reed, and H Mukhtar. Int J Cancer 2005; 113(3): 423-33.

3. Breast cancer chemo preventive properties of pomegranate (Punica granatum) fruit extracts in a mouse mammary organ culture. Mehta R, Lansky EP. Eur J Cancer Prev 2004 Aug;13(4):345-8.

4. Possible synergistic prostate cancer suppression by anatomically discrete pomegranate fractions. Lansky EP, Jiang W, Mo H, Bravo L, Froom P, Yu W, Harris NM, Neeman I, Campbell MJ. Invest New Drugs 2005 Jan; 23(1):11-20.

5. Pomegranate extracts potently suppress proliferation, xenograft growth, and invasion of human prostate cancer cells. Albrecht M, Jiang W, Kumi-Diaka J, Lansky EP, Gommersall LM, Patel A, Mansel RE, Neeman I, Geldof AA, Campbell MJ. J Med Food 2004 Fall; 7(3):274-83.

6. Chemo preventive and adjuvant therapeutic potential of pomegranate (Punica granatum) for human breast cancer. Kim ND, Mehta R, Yu W, Neeman I, Livney T, Amichay A, Poirier D, Nicholls P, Kirby A, Jiang W, Mansel R, Ramachandran C, Rabi T, Kaplan B, Lansky E. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2002 Feb; 71(3):203-17.

7. Pomegranate seed oil rich in conjugated linolenic acid suppresses chemically induced colon carcinogenesis in rats. H Kohno, R Suzuki, Y Yasui, M Hosokawa, K Miyashita, and T Tanaka. Cancer Sci 2004; 95(6): 481-6.

Effect of Pomegranate on Inflammation

1. A novel mechanism for the inhibition of NF-kappaB activation in vascular endothelial cells by natural antioxidants. Schubert SY, Neeman I, Resnick N. FASEB J 2002 Dec; 16(14):19313.

2. Anthocyanin and hydrolyzable tannin-rich pomegranate fruit extract modulates MAPK and NF-kappaB pathways and inhibits skin tumorigenesis in CD-1 mice. F Afaq, M Saleem, CG Krueger, JD Reed, and H Mukhtar. Int J Cancer 2005; 113(3): 423-33.

Effect of Pomegranate on Neuroprotection

1. Maternal dietary supplementation with pomegranate juice is neuroprotective in an animal model of neonatal hypoxicischemic brain injury. Loren DJ, Seeram NP, Schulman RN, Holtzman DM. Pediatr Res 2005 Mar 17.

Effect of Pomegranate on LDL Oxidation, Hypertension and Cardiosclerosis

1. Pomegranate juice consumption for 3 years by patients with carotid artery stenosis reduces common carotid intima-media thickness, blood pressure and LDL oxidation. Aviram M, Rosenblat M, Gaitini D, Nitecki S, Hoffman A, Dornfeld L, Volkova N, Presser D, Attias J, Liker H, Hayek T. Clin Nutr 2004 Jun; 23(3):423-33.

2. Pomegranate juice consumption inhibits serum angiotensin converting enzyme activity and reduces systolic blood pressure. Aviram M, Dornfeld L. Atherosclerosis 2001 Sep; 158(1):195-8.

3. Pomegranate juice supplementation to atherosclerotic mice reduces macrophage lipid peroxidation, cellular cholesterol accumulation and development of atherosclerosis. Kaplan M, Hayek T, Raz A, Coleman R, Dornfeld L, Vaya J, Aviram M. J Nutr 2001 Aug; 131(8):2082-9.

4. Pomegranate juice consumption reduces oxidative stress, atherogenic modifications to LDL, and platelet aggregation: studies in humans and in atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Aviram M, Dornfeld L, Rosenblat M, Volkova N, Kaplan M, Coleman R, Hayek T, Presser D, Fuhrman B. Am J Clin Nutr 2000 May; 71(5):1062-76.

5. Pomegranate juice flavonoids inhibit low-density lipoprotein oxidation and cardiovascular diseases: studies in atherosclerotic mice and in humans. Aviram M, Dornfeld L, Kaplan M, Coleman R, Gaitini D, Nitecki S, Hofman A, Rosenblat M, Volkova N, Presser D, Attias J, Hayek T, Fuhrman B. Drugs Exp Clin Res 2002; 28 (2-3):49-62.

6. Antioxidant activity of pomegranate juice and its relationship with phenolic composition and processing. Gil MI, Tomas Barberan FA, Hess-Pierce B, Holcroft DM, Kader AA. J Agric Food Chem 2000 Oct; 48(10):4581-9.

7. Antioxidant activity of selected foodstuffs. Kelawala NS, Ananthanarayan L. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2004 Sep; 55(6):511-6.

Effect of Pomegranate on Microbial Growth

1. Pomegranate extract inhibits Staphylococcus aureus growth and subsequent enterotoxin production. Braga LC, Shupp JW, Cummings C, Jett M, Takahashi JA, Carmo LS, Chartone-Souza E, Nascimento AM. J Ethnopharmacol 2005 Jan 4; 96(1-2):335-9.

2. Punica granatum (Pomegranate) juice provides an HIV-1 entry inhibitor and candidate topical microbicide. Neurath AR, Strick N, Li YY, Debnath AK. BMC Infect Dis 2004 Oct 14; 4(1):41.

3. Antiviral activities of medicinal herbs traditionally used in southern mainland China. Li Y, Ooi LS, Wang H, But PP, Ooi VE. Phytother Res 2004 Sep; 18(9):718-22.

4. Use of Punica granatum as an antifungal agent against candidosis associated with denture stomatitis. Vasconcelos LC, Sampaio MC, Sampaio FC, Higino JS. Mycoses 2003 Jun; 46 (5-6):192-6.

5. Adjunctive periodontal treatment with Centella asiatica and Punica granatum extracts. A preliminary study. Sastravaha G, Yotnuengnit P, Booncong P, Sangtherapitikul P. J Int Acad Periodontol 2003 Oct; 5(4):106-15.

Apple Cider Vinegar - The Wonder "Drug" of Yesterday and Today

You can go directly to any section: How Does It Work, The Benefits, Cider Vinegar, What does it do?, Potassium, The Uses, Effects on the Blood AILMENTS: Arthritis, Asthma, Blood Loss, Colitis, Coughs, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Ear Discharge, Eczema, Eyes (Tired and Sore), Fatigue, Food Poisoning, Hair Loss, Hay Fever, Headaches, Hearing, Heartburn, Hemorrhages, Hiccups, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Insomnia, Kidneys and Bladder, Menstruation, Mucous Discharges, Nail Problems, Nervousness, Nose Bleed, Nose - Stuffy, Obesity, Shingles, Sore Throat, Teeth, Varicose Veins, Weight Gain, Weight Loss, External Application, For a Bath, Itchy Scalp

How Does It Work

By Ruth Tan

The health benefits of the apple cider vinegar and honey drink are widely known. This recipe has traditionally been used as an at-home self remedy for many ailments, and even an anti-aging elixir. Many people have smartly made use of its cleansing and disinfecting properties to self-detoxify their body. It is seen as a powerful cleansing agent and natural healing elixir with naturally occurring antibiotic and antiseptic that fights germs and bacteria.

Alkaline-Forming Diet

How does this vinegar and honey remedy actually work? A person's bloodstream tends toward becoming acidic with our modern diet of fats, starches and processed foods, (e.g fast foods, meats, peanuts, seafood, alcohol and coffee)and if your body is acidic, disease can flourish; if it is alkaline, it is in balance and can fight off germs and ailments such as bladder and kidney conditions, osteoporosis, brittle bones, joint pains, aching muscles, low energy and chronic fatigue, and slow digestion. Raw fruits, leafy green vegetables, legumes, and tea are examples of alkaline forming foods. Interestingly and ironically, a food's acid or alkaline-forming tendency in the body has nothing to do with the actual PH of the food itself. For instance, lemons and limes are very acidic, however the end-products they produce after digestion and assimilation are very alkaline so lemons and limes are alkaline-forming in the body. Likewise, meat will test alkaline before digestion but it leaves very acidic residue in the body so, like nearly all animal products, meat is very acid-forming. It is important to know that stomach acid or the PH of the stomach is an entirely different matter from the PH of the body's fluids and tissues. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the PH which is a balance between positively charges ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming). When this balance is compromised many problems can occur. The body is forced to borrow minerals-including calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium from vital organs and bones to neutralize the acid and safely remove it from the body. And severe damage can be done to the body due to high acidity. Ideally, for most people, the ideal diet is 75 percent alkalizing and 25 percent acidifying foods by volume. Allergic reactions and other forms of stress also tend to produce excessive acids in the body.

The alkalinity of apple cider vinegar can correct excess acidity in our system and help prevent and fight infection. Honey added to the vinegar naturally makes the mixture more drinkable for people. And the good news is that unprocessed raw honey has been classified as an alkaline-forming food. (Processed honey is only little acidifying and artificial sweetener is very acidifying). When you first drink the apple cider vinegar formula, it might taste horrible to you, but as your body becomes less acidic and more alkaline, it would begin to taste good.

Try this healthy and refreshing vinegar and honey drink! Essentially, to prepare:

* Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and a tablespoon of raw honey. (Apple cider vinegar is actually made from fresh, organic, crushed apples that are allowed to mature naturally in wooden barrels, but you can get it easily from the grocery shops or supermarkets.)

* Dissolve in a glass of chilled water.

* Take it twice daily.

Note: For this vinegar and honey remedy, do not get commercial distilled vinegars as they do not contain the same health values of organic, raw apple cider vinegar. The powerful enzymes and minerals like potassium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, iron copper, fluorine, silicon, pectin and natural malic and tartaric acids, which are important in fighting body toxins and inhibiting bacteria growth, are all destroyed during the distilling process.

THE BENEFITS OF CIDER VINEGAR

Author Unknown

Food has certainly been the down-fall of man's health. With all the rubbish he stuffs into his delicate, yet adaptable organism, it is no wonder that there is so much unnatural disease rampant today. From the day he ate his first meal man has forever abused his system with the wrong types of food. He has not been rational in his eating habits, but has merely satisfied his banal desire for stimulating, refined and processed fare. The day will come, however, when he suddenly realizes that his food habits effect his physical as well as mental wellbeing. He will then realize that he had been satisfying his debased taste buds, rather than sustaining the body. The wise, however, look toward nature for their answer; with patience and perseverance they have re-discovered the answer to man's dilemma. The answers although simple are extremely effective as they do not entail unnatural chemical compounds - it is the utilization of these wonderful gifts from nature which are so efficacious and free for all! There have been many natural curative formulae discovered throughout the centuries, which have proved themselves safe and yet effective. Natural resources have been used since the days before Christ viz: Sunshine, Water, Air - herbs and homebrews have been used for generations too by our ancestors. Honey is also a natural wonder, together with many other folk preparations which have been handed down through the ages. Amongst these APPLE CIDER VINEGAR has been widely used as a successful remedy for a number of ailments. We find that, with the abuse of the body, inordinate amounts of waste matter have accumulated within the system. In the early stages these are not so apparent as the body is still vital enough to deal with this extra burden. However, if an attempt is not made to eradicate these toxic accumulations, the body has to deal with more and more pressure, resulting in aches and pains. Later in life these efforts to eliminate these encumbrances result in influenza, bronchitis etc; and, if these healing efforts are suppressed by continued wrong living and drugs, the acute symptoms become chronic and insidious. Rheumatism, arthritis, cancer, heart ailments, high blood pressure etc, are all signs that the body has been neglected by the suppression of natural heating crisis's. There are certain preparations, however, which assist the body in eliminating these toxic substances and this is where these natural curative methods have found a valuable place in the healing arts. To abstain from those foods and drinks which add to this unnecessary accumulation, is a great assistance to the body i.e. those refined and denatured food items such as bread, starch, white sugar, and their products; together with the unnecessary food items which cause excessive mucous and toxic waste in the system e.g. meat, eggs, dairy produce, legumes, cereals. However, one may now ask what should one eat if these are to be eliminated from the diet. Where one cannot completely abstain from these products, moderation is the key word in this instance, together with certain herbal and folk preparations which assist in the breakdown of the acids and mucous waste.

It is at this point that the benefits of APPLE CIDER VINEGAR will be discussed:

CIDER VINEGAR

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away" (the dentist too!) - is an oft quotation which should not be considered as just an obsolete "Old Wives Tale", as there is more than meets the eye in these axioms of yore. Apples are among the most health-giving fruits available as they contain a host of nutritious properties viz: Phosphorous, Cholerine, Potassium, Sodium, Magnesium, Calcium, Sulphur, Iron, Fluorine, Silicon, plus many trace elements ....... and all of these are found in PURE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR.

WHAT DOES IT DO?

Amongst other things, cider vinegar is very effective in detoxifying various organs in the body together with the blood stream. Hence it is a purifier, as it has a means of breaking down fatty, mucous and phlegm deposits within the body. It therefore, promotes the health of the vital organs of the body e.g. kidneys, bladder, liver etc., by preventing an excessively alkaline urine. Cider vinegar also helps oxidate the blood which consequently prevents the blood from becoming too thick and gluey, which gives rise to a strained heart and blood vessels resulting in high blood pressure. Cider vinegar also promotes digestion, assimilation and elimination and it neutralizes any toxic substance taken into the body. There have been a number of instances where people who had taken a mixture of cider vinegar and water before a meal were unaffected by diarrhoea, or digestive upsets, whilst their companions who ate the same meal were. Hence the cider vinegar seemed to neutralize the harmful substances in the food eaten.

POTASSIUM

Apple cider vinegar has a potent supply of potassium which has become so widely acclaimed in the helping of various complaints including: running nose. Excessive mucous formation, watery eyes, sinus and catarrhal troubles. Teeth decay and the splitting of finger nails are also signs of potassium deficiency which are remedied by taking cider vinegar. Potassium is essential for the normal growth of the body and for the replacement of worn-out tissues which depend upon the presence of this mineral. It is as important to the soft tissues, as calcium is to the bones and teeth and it also retards the hardening of the blood vessels.

As potassium is so important in the healthy growth of a plant, animal and human, a deficiency of this mineral will produce such tendencies as callous formations on the soles of the feet, or the failure to replace worn-out tissues as observed in the loss of hair.

Tests have proven that a soil deficient in this mineral-salt will produce anaemic and undersized plants, however, when potassium is introduced into the soil the plant becomes sturdier and increases in height. This is also the case with animals, where potassium which was fed to livestock, in the form of cider vinegar, improved their appearance and stamina. Humans too, can benefit with this increased potassium intake. Especially where children are slow developers and appear undersized. A few teaspoons of cider vinegar taken with water each morning will show tremendous results. The best way to introduce cider vinegar to the family, is to substitute it for the ordinary table vinegar and use it in the cooking. Potassium acts as a restraining influence upon those who are over-excitable and nervous. It draws fluid back into the cells, for when potassium is lacking the body cells shrink and their normal activity is restricted.

THE USES OF CIDER VINEGAR

A number of outstanding authorities have proven the therapeutic advantages of using cider vinegar for numerous complaints ranging from obesity and overweight to arthritis. Besides the therapeutic benefits derived from taking cider vinegar therapy, as outlined in this article, it can also be used for a number of other purposes e.g. salad dressing, pickling, a flavor in cooking etc. It also makes a very refreshing drink, hot or cold, with or without honey - this should take the place of normal tea and coffee which are so habit-forming and unnecessary commodities.

Try using cider vinegar where lemon juice is required e.g. in making mayonnaise, or just sprinkle some on a salad before serving; sprinkle on pawpaw for a refreshing breakfast, or just use on potato chips!

EFFECTS OF CIDER VINEGAR ON THE BLOOD

When the blood is deficient in some minerals or biochemic salt, ill-health is the outcome e.g. boils break out, suppurating blisters become apparent, pimples appear on the face etc. It has been found however, that cider vinegar helps with the cleansing as well as the clotting of the blood. Oxidation of the blood is very important and cider vinegar is again an effective treatment for this. Besides introducing the important minerals into the blood stream, as mentioned above, cider vinegar also helps in the clotting of blood. This is of tremendous help to those people who are commonly termed 'bleeders', as they live their lives in fear of cutting themselves due to the bloods inability to clot, and it will also enhance the healing process.

AILMENTS

ARTHRITIS:

Use the cider vinegar and honey treatment for arthritis and also apply cider vinegar externally to painful joints. This entails drinking a glass of water with two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two teaspoons of honey three times a day. Local treatment can also be given by soaking the arthritic hand, or foot in a strong, comfortably hot solution of cider vinegar for ten minutes, two or three times a day - (a quarter of a cup of cider vinegar to one and a half cups of water). Arthritic knees can be attended to by making a poultice - soak the cloth in a mixture of cider vinegar and water, (as per above mixture) wring out and wrap it around the joint, then secure with a dry cloth to retain heat. When the wet cloth cools, it should be wrung out in the hot solution and applied afresh. Repeat several times, twice daily.

ASTHMA:

One tablespoonful of cider vinegar added to a glass of water should be taken in sips for half an hour. After a further half an hour has elapsed the treatment should be repeated. The wheezing should lessen in intensity quite considerably. However, should wheezing still persist a second glass of the same mixture should be taken. Deep breathing exercises are also a beneficial treatment.

BLOOD LOSS:

It has been discussed above how cider vinegar helps in preventing blood losses. In any circumstances where the flow of blood is too free and is too persistent, such as when a person has a nose bleed without any apparent reason, then two teaspoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water, three times a day will aid in restoring the natural clotting properties of the blood.

COLITIS:

The cider vinegar and honey treatment has been used effectively in the treatment for colitis. Take the normal dosage of two teaspoons cider vinegar and honey with water, three times a day. An enema of a teaspoonful or more of molasses is also very helpful.

COUGHS:

There are many types of coughs for various reasons, and these should be treated with reference to their nature and intensity. However, the cider vinegar and honey treatment will prove an efficacious treatment in this respect. Two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two of honey mixed with a glassful of water should be taken before meals, or when the irritation occurs. In the evening it would be an idea to have this mixture by your bed so that it can be sipped during the evening if an attack presents itself.

DIARRHEA:

It has been mentioned above how cider vinegar helps with the digestion, assimilation and elimination of food, and that it is an antiseptic to the intestines and the whole of the digestive tract. Due to it's healing properties, diarrhoea can be controlled in a very short time, (that is unless some serious physical disorder is apparent). The treatment being, one teaspoonful of cider vinegar in a glass of water should be taken before and in between meals i.e. approximately six glasses during the course of the day. It should be noted, however, that diarrhoea is a natural attempt on the part of the body to eliminate some poison which is irritating the digestive tract, on no account should any drugs be taken to suppress these healing symptoms - on the other hand the cider vinegar will lessen the intensity, but will allow the natural course of elimination to take place.

DIZZINESS:

Two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar together with two teaspoons of honey in a glass of hot or cold water three times a day should help this annoying occurrence quite considerably. However, one should never expect instant results, as nature works slowly, yet very effectively. You will notice a lessened intensity whilst you progress.

EAR DISCHARGE:

The treatment for this complaint, which usually occurs during childhood is: one teaspoonful of cider vinegar in a glass of water to be taken mid morning and mid afternoon. The discharge should shortly disappear.

ECZEMA:

Take the usual dosage of cider vinegar and honey in a glassful of water three times a day, with meals. An application of well diluted cider vinegar can also be applied to the skin several times daily i.e. one teaspoonful to half a cup of water. Under no circumstances should salt be taken, as this aggravates the eczema condition considerably. There is usually a potassium deficiency in those people suffering from eczema.

EYES (TIRED AND SORE):

The cider vinegar therapy together with honey is the essential ingredients here. Two teaspoons of each taken in a glassful of water, three times a day. This mixture retards the onset of tired and sore eyes which are usually apparent in later life, as it supplies them with those vital elements essential to their health and functioning.

FATIGUE:

Chronic fatigue is a warning that the body needs some attention. Most people suffering from chronic fatigue do not have enough good, sound sleep. Either they go to bed too late, or they are one of those people who just need more sleep than most. It is better to get as many hours in bed before midnight as possible. To remedy a poor quality sleep, honey is highly recommended, as it acts as a sedative to the body. Twenty minutes after the honey has been taken into the mouth it has been digested and absorbed into the body. This is because it is a predigested sugar, which has been digested in the stomach of the honey bee, and therefore requires no effort on the part of the human stomach for digestion. Keep the following mixture by your bedside to be taken as indicated: three teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a cup of honey.

Take two teaspoons of the mixture before retiring. This should induce sound sleep within an hour, if however, you have been unable to sleep within this period repeat the dosage.

FOOD POISONING:

As mentioned earlier there have been many cases where people who were in the habit of taking cider vinegar regularly never suffer any side effects from food poisoning. The cider vinegar has an antiseptic quality which seems to render noxious food harmless.

HAIR LOSS:

The falling out of hair is primarily due to a tissue salt deficiency, thus cider vinegar with its 'wonder products' will re-establish a natural balance, and supply the deficiencies where needed. Therefore, by taking the cider vinegar treatment the hair will maintain its natural growth. It will cease to fall out and grow more rapidly and thickly. This will take approximately two months, so perseverance is needed. The dosage is one teaspoonful of cider vinegar to a glass of water to be taken with or between meals. Cider vinegar can also be used externally for the treatment of dandruff, see under heading of External Treatments.

HAY FEVER:

This ailment is marked by watery eyes, sneezing and running nose, in other words there is an excess of fluid which the body is drastically trying to offload. For an effective relief, honey and cider vinegar should be utilized which will bring excellent results. A tablespoonful of honey should be taken after each meal for approximately a fortnight before the onset of the hay-fever season. The ordinary dosage of cider vinegar and honey should then be taken viz: two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two of honey in a glass of water, three times a day. This dosage should be maintained during the entire hay-fever season.

HEADACHES:

There are several types of headache, caused by various reasons. Some are associated with organic disorders, such as kidney troubles, others are known as psychogenic, or tension headaches. Then we have the most annoying of all; the migraine headache. Many people have had relief from headaches by the use of honey. Two teaspoons taken at each meal may well prevent an attack. Another effective means is to take apple cider vinegar. Equal parts of cider vinegar and water should be placed in a small basin on the stove, allowing it to boil slowly. When the fumes begin to rise from the basin lean your head over it until the fumes are comfortably strong. Inhale for approximately 50 to 80 breaths. Generally this alleviates the headache considerably, if not entirely.

HEARING:

(Impaired) The treatment of impaired hearing has had excellent results on the apple cider vinegar therapy. Take the normal dosage three times daily and notice the improvement.

HEARTBURN:

This usually occurs after eating, sometimes up to two hours later. This very unpleasant feeling can be alleviated by taking the usual dosage of cider vinegar and water before meals.

HEMORRHAGES:

As previously pointed out cider vinegar helps the blood to clot more easily. When a person who regularly drinks cider vinegar cuts himself, the wound will dry up almost instantaneously, as there will be no profuse bleeding. If, however, wounds do not heal quickly, the following procedure should be undertaken; two teaspoons of cider vinegar taken in half or a whole glass of water at mealtimes as well as in between, therefore six glasses in all are imbibed. For extra efficiency a very weak solution of cider vinegar with water can be applied to the sore, wound or cut.

Poultices of cider vinegar (see instructions under the heading Arthritis) can be applied to a stubborn open wound.

HICCUPS:

These have been known to be eradicated by drinking a teaspoon of cider vinegar neat! Alternatively cider vinegar with water can be taken before mealtimes to prevent this occurrence.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE:

There are a number of reasons why a person suffers from this common yet serious condition. As mentioned earlier, health will be maintained only if one is prepared to adjust his living and eating habits. Cider vinegar is not the cure-ail of man's suffering, it is only one of the many means towards a healthier and happier life. In the case of High Blood Pressure, one's eating habits must be taken stock of to ensure a speedy and effective recovery. Emphasis is on the natural, organically grown foods which are given to us in the form of fresh fruits, vegetables and honey - rather than the high protein foods which include eggs, meat, milk, cheese, nuts, beans etc. A balance must be maintained between the proteins and carbohydrates and one should definitely not over indulge on these protein and starchy foods. Wheat products should also be eliminated completely, together with salt which is very detrimental to the health, especially for those suffering from high blood pressure. The following dosage should be taken daily: two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and honey in a glass of water - up to three to four times a day.

HIGH CHOLESTEROL

To Lower your cholesterol, cut body fat and remove waste mix two teaspoons apple vinegar and honey in 8 ounces of water. Sip it between or with meals - three times a day.

INSOMNIA:

There are also a number of causes as to why people suffer from insomnia; however, there have been excellent results with the cider vinegar and honey treatment as follows: two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two of honey in a glass of water to be taken before retiring. It would also be beneficial to have a glass of this mixture by the bedside to sip if needed. Under no circumstances should drugs be resorted to, as these are both harmful and habit-forming. Under severe cases, a naturopath or homeopath should be consulted. If has been found that the prime cause of insomnia is due to a deficiency of phosphate of potash and phosphate of iron; this combination can be found in the biochemic salt known as kali phos, which can be obtained from your local health shop.

KIDNEYS AND BLADDER:

Due to the eliminative nature of cider vinegar, the kidneys and bladder can benefit tremendously by a 'flushing', which they receive when the following cider vinegar therapy is undertaken: two teaspoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water six times a day. It would be beneficial to drink a couple of glasses of water in the morning, taking one teaspoonful of cider vinegar in each drink. Comfrey tea, first thing in the morning with a teaspoon of cider vinegar will also create a sufficient cleansing action. Inflammation of the kidneys, called pyelitis, in which pus cells are present in the urine, will generally clear up with the above-mentioned treatment.

MENSTRUATION:

Chronic pains and profuse menstruation has afflicted women for centuries. The cider vinegar therapy certainly regulates and normalizes profuse bleeding. The dosage should be as normal i.e. two teaspoons of cider vinegar in a glassful of water three times a day. The diet should also be taken into consideration, as a high animal protein diet together with wheat products will cause considerable pain when the periods begin. In other words moderation should be used if one is partaking of these foods. However, meat, poultry, fish and wheat should be completely eliminated from the diet, together with the other unnatural foods of which man is so prone. A noticeable improvement will be experienced when the diet is kept to the fresh raw fruits and fresh salads, together with the apple cider vinegar therapy. Also plenty of water should be taken whilst menstruating, as this helps in a speedy elimination.

MUCOUS DISCHARGES:

Postnasal drips and watery eyes are also due to a faulty diet, here again this should be thoroughly investigated, as the body is eliminating excessive mucous caused by the wrong types of food. This is often caused by a lack of potassium in the diet too, hence the cider vinegar therapy will help considerably. The usual dosage as prescribed above should be taken three times a day before meals. Wheat should be eliminated from the diet completely and rye and corn products should be substituted, if required.

NAIL PROBLEMS:

Brittle, cracking, fragile and thin nails are a sign of some deficiency and faulty metabolism in the body. Cider vinegar has been known to remedy this particular complaint, with the results of healthy, strong nails. Also any white spots which were present on the nails previously will be eliminated. Dosage being: two teaspoons in a glassful of water three times a day.

NERVOUSNESS:

There have been cases where nervousness has been remedied with the cider vinegar and honey treatment. In this instance a glassful of water mixed with two teaspoons of each i.e. cider vinegar and honey to be taken three times a day. Refined flour and sugar products should be completely eliminated from the diet, together with wheat products. One should also cut down on the starch and high protein foods as much as possible and eat plenty of fresh salads and fruit.

NOSE BLEED:

As an excessive nose bleed is caused by the blood being unable to clot as it should normally, the cider vinegar treatment will prove efficacious in this respect i.e. two teaspoons of cider vinegar in a glassful of water three times daily.

NOSE - STUFFY:

In this respect the cider vinegar can be used as an inhalant. Use as per method described under the heading Headaches. The nasal passages will shortly clear after having inhaled the vapor. This treatment is very effective in removing the congestion in the sinuses, together with any inflammation which may result from this excessive accumulation of mucous.

OBESITY:

There are a number of reasons why a person is assailed with excessive fat deposits. This is apparent in both sexes and cannot, from professional data, be attributed to any one major factor. Obesity, often eventuates from the excessive intake of alcohol, thereby causing water retention in the tissues. This is often apparent by the 'swollen' appearance of the face. There are also certain drugs which are apt to cause obesity and thus the body increases in weight. Overeating, insufficient oxidation of the blood, insufficient exercise, lack of fresh air etc, are also attributed to this ailment. However, Cyril Scott mentions in his booklet on cider vinegar that the prime cause of obesity is the insufficient oxidation of the blood, he goes on to say, "Now the safe and salubrious treatment, proved over years of trial, is to be found in nothing more complicated than cider vinegar - the reason being, as already implied, that the ailment is conductive to the proper oxidation of the blood." Two teaspoons of cider vinegar should be taken in a glassful of water on rising in the morning. To obtain the best results possible this should be taken before each meal and during the day over a period of some time. Natural methods always take longer to work, as the body has to adapt itself, especially the skin in this instance, as if too much weight is lost in a short period of time, then it will hang and look unsightly. The drink should be sipped during the course of the meal which will also prevent overeating and it will promote digestion. According to some authorities, the average weight reduction is 1.5 Lbs. a week. This all depends upon whether the diet has been adjusted. Salt should be discontinued immediately as this harmful commodity retains water - herbal beverages such as comfrey should take the place of tea and coffee. Wholesome, nutritious and MODERATION is the key to weightless, together with deep breathing and physical exercise.

SHINGLES:

Cider vinegar relieves the pain arising from shingles if applied, undiluted, six times daily to the area of distress. It also promotes the healing. Take internally as well as prescribed above.

SORE THROAT:

To treat this, one should gargle with apple cider vinegar. One teaspoonful of vinegar in a glass of water is the dosage to be used. A mouthful of this solution is gargled every hour, and the second mouthful after gargling should be swallowed. This is to be repeated every hour until the condition of the throat is improved.

TEETH:

Due to cider vinegar improving the calcium metabolism of the body, it is excellent for improving the condition of the teeth. Tartar deposits can also be eradicated by using the cider vinegar as a mouthwash and by brushing your teeth with it to enhance the whiteness (see Editor's note below). For the mouthwash, one teaspoonful of cider vinegar should be added to a glassful of water - repeat this procedure each night until the required results are achieved (see Editor's note below). This habit, together with the drinking of cider vinegar will prevent tooth decay quite considerably. The mouthwash can also be used for sore gums, or ulcerated gums - be sure that the solution is not too strong in this case, as it will slightly sting an open sore (see Editor's note below).

Editor's note: Brushing your teeth with apple cider vinegar is probably not safe; it may be too acidic for your tooth enamel. Using the mixture as a mouthwash should not be a problem for your tooth enamel since it is a very weak mixture, but you can rinse your mouth out with plain water afterwards just to be safe. Drinking natural apple cider vinegar mixed with honey in a glass full of water for health should be no problem for tooth enamel since you drink it straight down and because this is usually done before a meal. But, you can always rinse your mouth out with plain water afterwards just to be safe.

VARICOSE VEINS:

Apply undiluted cider vinegar to the area where the veins are affected. This should be undertaken in the morning and evening. Massage well - always directed towards the heart e.g. as in the case of the legs, start from the ankles and move in upward strokes towards the thigh. Cider vinegar and honey should also be taken three times a day, i.e. two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two of honey mixed with a glassful of water.

WEIGHT GAIN:

As cider vinegar supplies those organs of the body which are deficient in some mineral and normalizes the functioning of these organs, those who are underweight will find that cider vinegar will help in normalizing their weight. In this instance the following dosage should be adhered to: two teaspoons of cider vinegar and two of honey in a glass of water three times a day.

WEIGHT LOSS:

(Also see Obesity) Cider vinegar will gradually decrease the weight of the body, as it tends to make the body burn up the fat instead of storing it. Some people have had results by just taking the cider vinegar without adjusting their eating habits. However, it is recommended that one should concentrate on the LIVE FOODS, rather than continue to live on the devitalized diet which is so prevalent today. The cider vinegar method, as mentioned under Obesity should be utilized three times daily.

EXTERNAL APPLICATIONS

The skin is a very important part of the body, as it is the major organ of elimination. Besides being an effective eliminator the skin also absorbs substances into the body. In view of this fact it is very important to understand that we should be very careful with what we place on the skin. Unnatural substances such as cosmetics, which contain chemicals are very detrimental to the skin health. This is also true for the commercial soap which we use for washing the body. The skin needs an acid mantle to maintain its lustre and glow - however, due to the extreme alkalinity of soap reacting on the skin, this causes a number of disorders. Soap also contains animal fats and hormones, synthetic perfumes and preservatives; therefore, it should not be used to cleanse the body.

However, cider vinegar is an effective method of cleansing the body. A hand bath or a full bath can be taken in cider vinegar and water. A hand bath should be preceded as follows: to half a glass of warm water should be added one teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar. Cup the palm of the hand and pour in approximately a palm full of the mixture. First apply to the arms and shoulders, rubbing the solution into the skin briskly. The legs and feet can be done in the same manner, together with the body. A brisk rubbing action should be used to massage the cider vinegar solution into the skin. You will soon find that the solution has been completely absorbed by the skin, therefore, no towelling down is needed.

FOR A BATH:

Instead of using soap, add a half pint of apple cider vinegar to the water and remain submerged in the water for at least fifteen minutes so that the skin surface of the body may have a chance to absorb some of the acid water. This is extremely important for those people who have an alkaline skin; this condition will be indicated by those people who continually suffer from skin irritation, and they are forever scratching their skin.

ITCHY SCALP:

Take one teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar mixed with a glassful of water - dip your comb into the solution and comb the hair thoroughly until saturated. This should be performed fifteen minutes or so before actually washing the hair. This treatment also helps with the elimination of dandruff.

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