" Newsletter - July 2011"

Don't leave out God and prayer - the 2 most important ingredients in any situation.
While you are praying or after praying don't forget to LISTEN for the answers! They will come.
click here - to view the studies showing the scientific proof that prayer works.

Exciting news for High Blood Pressure

One out of every three adults in the US with high blood pressure, medication is almost a given. There's many medications to keep blood pressure under control -- diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, alpha-blockers, calcium channel blockers and more. Unfortunately, though these various drugs do a reasonable job of pushing down blood pressure readings, they also can cause serious complications and come with a list of side effects ranging from fatigue, insomnia, and depression to impotence, gout, diabetic episodes, fatal liver problems, heart disease (ironically), and permanent kidney damage.

A research team fed small amounts of pea protein hydrolysate extracted from yellow peas to rats for eight weeks, and by the end of that time, the rats showed a 20 percent drop in blood pressure compared to rats on a regular diet.

Not only did the pea protein lower their blood pressure, but it also increased urine output by 30 percent, indicating a significant improvement in kidney function since those with kidney damage often have impaired urine flow and so can't rid the body of toxins.

Eating peas for dinner won't do the trick. The protein needs to be isolated and activated with enzymes. Yellow pea protein has enormous benefits as a protein source, as it's hypoallergenic, easily absorbed by the body, easy to digest and cholesterol-free, and unlike other protein sources, doesn't lead to intestinal toxemia. And now, it turns out, it also may be anti-hypertensive and beneficial to the kidneys.

Natures Way - Alive Rice Pea Shake .

Menopause
Studies have proven that there are extreme health risks with synthetic hormone replacement.

During premenopause, the ovaries no longer ovulate on a regular basis. This is the basis for the cycle changes and the beginning of symptoms such as hot flashes. Menopause itself usually begins in the mid-forties to early fifties. When the ovaries stop producing significant amounts of estrogen and progesterone, the menstrual cycle ceases; a woman who has had no periods for a year is said to be menopausal.

Women's reactions to menopause vary widely. Some enjoy the change, while others suffer from problems like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, heart palpitations, and mood swings, often for years. But if a woman is healthy, active, and well nourished, her adrenal glands will usually respond to menopause by creating precursor hormones such as pregnenolone and DHEA, which are then converted into estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. And if she takes natural steps to encourage this process, it is likely that she can avoid harsh and possibly dangerous medications altogether.

For women with mild to moderate symptoms of menopause, it is generally recommended to try diet, exercise, and nutritional supplements, especially herbal, essential oils and homeopathic remedies. Natural supplements balance the hormones that are already present in the body. In addition, the use of natural progesterone appears to be very safe and effective when a stronger approach is needed.

There are many symptoms that come with menopause but the most talked about symptom is definitely hot flashes. Some women can experience up to a dozen hot flashes in just one day making it difficult to sleep and making it hard to focus on their daily activities. Hormonal Replacement Therapy is one effective way to relieve hot flashes but with that comes many side effects and risks. There are many alternative ways women are discovering everyday to relieve the severity of their hot flashes. Some of the best and most effective ways are listed below.

We found that women who experienced symptoms when they began menopause had fewer cardiovascular events than those who experienced hot flashes late in menopause or not at all. Hot flashes will never be enjoyable, but perhaps these findings will make them more tolerable.

Black cohosh - Take 80 mg one to two times daily. Black cohosh has been shown in numerous studies to alleviate a multitude of menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes.

Natural progesterone cream - The best way to increase deficient progesterone levels is through natural nutritional sources. A progesterone-like molecule is available to assist the body in creating its own progesterone. The molecule supplies the body with the building blocks to produce the lacking chemistry. This progesterone-like molecule is found in about 5,000 plant sources. The richest plant source is the Mexican Wild Yam. Wild Yam extract can be mixed with a quality base forming a balancing cream or emollient to apply to the face, hands, chest, abdomen, or back. Pregnenolone promotes health, but its production decreases with age. It can improve memory and clarity of thinking, increase energy, libido and productivity. It is also touted for improving moods and providing a sense of well-being.

Perimenopausal women should apply 1⁄4 teaspoon (20 mg) to the skin on the inside of their wrists and forearms one to two times daily, from days 14 to 25 of the menstrual cycle or as directed by their health-care practitioner.

Menopausal women should apply 1⁄4 teaspoon (20 mg) to the skin on the inside of their wrists and forearms two times daily, three to four weeks of the month or as directed by their health-care practitioner.

Postmenopausal should women apply 1⁄8 teaspoon (10 mg) to the skin on the inside of their wrists and forearms once daily, three weeks of the month.

Natural progesterone alleviates a multitude of menopausal symptoms and may help bone density.

Vitex - Take 160 to 240 mg daily. Vitex relieves hot flashes and prevents a heavy menses for perimenopausal women. Vitex essential oil

American ginseng - Take 600 to 1,200 mg daily. This herb supports adrenal function, improves energy, relaxes the nervous system, and has a cooling effect.

Hops - Take 250 mg two to three times daily. Hops reduces anxiety and tension and has mild hormone-balancing properties.

Rehmannia - Take 25 to 100 mg daily. This Chinese herb has a cooling effect and reduces hot flashes, night sweats, heart palpitations, and other common menopause symptoms.

Aromatherapy

Blends to help with Menopause: Female Aide, Systems Strengthener, Alertness, Birth, Hormone Balancer, P ain/Anti-inflammatory, My-Graine

Geranium and rose oils have a gentle balancing effect on hormone levels. They have the additional benefit of reducing stress. Add these oils to a bath or use them in a massage.

If you want to lift your spirits, you can try several oils. Bergamot, rose, and jasmine are some of the best; use them in any preparation you like.

Patchouli and ylang ylang instill a sense of calm, while arousing sexual desire. Try a few drops in the bath or a room diffuser, or use in a massage.

Add chamomile to a lotion, and apply to dry skin for a softening, smoothing effect.

Some More General Recommendations

DHEA supports memory, libido, and mood. If your level of DHEA is low, take 5 to 15 mg as a starting dosage, under the guidance of your doctor.

Dr. Christopher's - Hormonal Changease, Female Reproductive, Male Urinary Tract

Dr Christopher has Adrenals Formula which supports the hormone-producing adrenal glands Take 1 to 2 capsules twice daily on an empty stomach.

For memory and concentration problems, take Gingko biloba It increases blood flow to the brain. Take 120 to 240 mg daily of an extract.

Hormone-replacement therapy puts a great stress on the liver. If you choose to take this medication, detoxify with Milk thistle. Find a formula that's standardized to 70 to 80 percent silymarin content, and take 250 mg twice a day.

St-John's-wort has been shown to fight depression that comes on with menopause. Take 900 mg daily of a 0.3 percent hypericin extract. Also St. Johns Wort essential oil.

If you have heart palpitations, take Motherwort at a dosage of 200 mg or 2 ml three times daily. Motherwort as extract

Sage helps control the sweating associated with hot flashes.

Red clover - has been shown in some studies to reduce the symptoms of menopause. Take 450 mg one to two times daily.

If you need to unwind and de-stress, find a quiet moment to drink a cup of tea made from chamomile, peppermint, or passionflower Each of these herbs are relaxing and calming.

Vitamin E-complex may help reduce the symptoms of menopause. Take 800 to 1,200 IU daily. Do not use this high of a dosage if you're on blood-thinning medications.

A high-potency multivitamin provides a base of vitamins and minerals for overall health

Take daily calcium and magnesium, or a bone formula for bone health.

For a more powerful relaxing effect, especially if you need to sleep, drink valerian water.

Hydrotherapy

A warm sitz bath will increase circulation to the pelvic area and will improve vaginal dryness and decreased libido.

Also

1) Dress Appropriately- Hot weather can make hot flashes even worse, by wearing cotton clothes and allowing your skin to breathe you can decrease both the occurrence and severity of these hot flashes, especially in the heat.

2) Watch Triggers- Everyone is different and a variety of things can trigger hot flashes in different people. It is important to pay attention to what you were doing or eating before your hot flash. You may begin to notice a trend and figure out what your triggers may be. Common triggers are alcohol, caffeine, hot food, hot tubs, saunas, smoking, sugary food and spicy foods.

3) Relax- Stress can also be a common trigger for hot flashes. Giving yourself just 10-15 minutes a day of complete relaxation can greatly decrease your amount of hot flashes. Yoga and many deep breathing exercises can help relax your body and cool down.

4) Flaxseed- Along with its laundry list of other health benefits, Flaxeed can reduce hot flashes and even ease other menopause symptoms. Consuming 1 tablespoon of ground flaxeed each day may not affect you immediately but after a month of two most people will experience extreme relief from hot flashes.

5) Herbs- There are many herbs that are known to have estrogen-like properties that can help control your hot flashes. Some of these natural herbs include sage dong quai, red clover chaste tree (vitex) link 1 link 2 and the most effective and commonly used, black cohosh.

6) Natural Progesterone Cream- 2% progesterone skin cream works in about 85% of perimenopausal women. Using as little as ¼ tsp once a day can begin to have a positive effect on hot flashes.

Here are some non-estrogen options:

Behavioral interventions
Wear layered cotton clothing. Avoid coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, and stress! Sip cool drinks or use ice packs. Relaxation and deep, abdominal breathing (6-8 breaths per minute) have been shown to reduce hot flashes by about 40% when practiced as minimally as twice per day. Eliminate hot baths or showers before bedtime.

Exercise- One of the more commonly effective natural relief is exercise. Exercising at least 30 minutes a day doing any kind of cardio even if its just simply taking a walk can help prevent hot flashes. Exercising improves circulation and can help your body to cool down more effective during a hot flash.

Taken occasionally for insomnia. 3 mg. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the brain's pineal gland. It begins to decline sharply at adolescence, then again at about age 40. Older adults produce only half as much as children. Melatonin can ease insomnia, especially in older adults. Animal studies suggest it may strengthen the immune system and fight cancer. Remember that Melatonin, like DHEA, is a "hormone." albeit natural, and should be used as recommended. Can be very helpful for sleep problems.

Niacin No-Flush (B-3): 60 mg. Improvement in cholesterol profile by reducing total cholesterol and LDL and raising HDL. Niacin No-Flush is recommended as high doses (75 mg or more) of niacin can cause side effects. The most common side effect is called "niacin flush," which is a burning, tingling sensation in the face and chest, and red or "flushed" skin. Niacin plays an important role in ridding the body of toxic and harmful chemicals. It also helps the body make various sex and stress-related hormones in the adrenal glands and other parts of the body. Niacin is effective in improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels in the blood, aiding in atherosclerosis, diabetes, osteoarthritis, cataracts and burns. Niacin needs can be partially met by eating foods containing protein because the human body is able to convert tryptophan, an amino acid, into niacin. Our No-Flush Niacin will not cause the flush that is commonly associated with niacin use. It is derived from the finest Inositol Hexanicotinate available.

Versatile Epsom salt

Relaxing and sedative bath: Soak in warm water and 2 cups of Epsom salt.

Foot soak: Soothe aches, remove odors and soften rough skin with a foot soak. Add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt and Peppermint essential oil to a large pan of warm water. Soak feet for as long as it feels right. Rinse and dry.

INGREDIENTS
1 cup Epsom salt
1/3 cup almond oil or olive oil
1 tablespoon castile soap
6 drops pure essential oil of peppermint
Mix all of the ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. Soak your feet first if desired, using 3 quarts of hot water directly from the faucet or warmed on the stove top to a comfortable temperature. Pour the water into a basin and mix in 1/4 cup table salt or Epson Salts. Soak those lovely feet for a good 15 minutes. Then, scrub your dear feet with the mixture. Rinse them off.

Soak sprains and bruises: Epsom salt will reduce the swelling of sprains and bruises. Add 2 cups epsom salt to a warm bath, and soak,
1. Take an anti-inflammatory supplement like ginger, turmeric, or add a few drops of myrrh essential oil.
2. Pick up a combination antioxidant remedy containing quercetin and bromelain to reduce swelling and pain, improve blood circulation, and neutralize metabolism waste products.

Splinter remover: Soak in epsom salt, it will draw out the splinter.

Face cleaner: To clean your face at night, mix a half-teaspoon of epsom salt with your regular cleansing cream. Just massage into skin and rinse with cold water.
Homemade skin mask: Apply the mask to damp skin. For normal to oily skin, mix 1 tablespoon of cognac, 1 egg, 1/4 cup of non-fat dry milk, the juice of 1 lemon, and a half-teaspoon of epsom salt. For normal to dry skin, mix 1/4 cup of grated carrot, 1 1/2 teaspoons of mayonnaise and a half-teaspoon of epsom salt.

Essential Oils Personal Top Ten Kit

Essential oils provide a wonderful natural-medicine alternative to common ailments we see at home. Their actions are broad and diverse, ranging from topical antiseptics and anti-inflammatories to analgesics, digestive system tonics, and anti-depressants. While essential oils should not be a substitute for professional medical care, they can be successfully employed for many minor complaints, and as adjuncts to other therapies.
Here we will have a brief look at ten essential oils considered by some to comprise the ‘basic home care kit’. While by no means exhaustive, this list will go a long way to providing effective (and often pleasant!) treatments for you and your family for things like cuts and scrapes, sunburn, digestive troubles, stress related conditions and more. In the second article, we will cover specific applications and uses of each oil.

Oil #1: Lavender
Lavender has often been called the ‘medicine chest in a bottle’ for its broad range of applications. Every home should keep Lavender on hand, even if no other oil is used, as it is so very effective on burns. It’s anti-inflammatory action is responsible for the beginnings of modern aromatherapy, as Dr. Jean Valnet discovered Lavender’s healing properties after being burned in a laboratory accident. Lavender is considered to speed wound healing and reduce scarring. The oil is also pleasantly calming, and can be used to reduce stress in a variety of situations – a commonly used technique is to apply Lavender oil ‘neat’ (undiluted) to the soles of the feet of patients recovering from almost any ailment.

Oil #2: Tea Tree
When first examined for it’s antiseptic properties, Tea Tree essential oil was found to be 100 times more powerful than carbolic acid – the medical standard at the time. Tea tree has an extremely broad range of antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties that have been confirmed by modern scientific research. Often used topically on small wounds, Tea Tree is also commonly found in oral hygiene preparations, and can also be effectively employed for Candida, athlete’s foot and acne, among other things.

Oil #3: Peppermint
An excellent digestive tonic, Peppermint essential oil can sooth many stomach complaints. For the traveler, it’s effectiveness on calming motion sickness can be of great help. Further, at least eight controlled studies have shown Peppermint oil to be effective in reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a painful condition of the intestines. Beyond it’s support of the digestive system, Peppermint is delightfully stimulating to the mind, brightening and sharpening mental focus. Finally, Peppermint is considered by some to be a more effective insect repellent than citronella when used on the body (rather than in the surrounding air). Eases menstrual cramps, aids morning sickness, labor, delivery, aids mastitis, kidney tonic-cystitis, headache, arthritis, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism.

Oil #4: Chamomile
Ah, the great tension reliever, Chamomile oil. This extremely gentle essential oil is useful for a wide variety of nervous conditions, and is often indicated for cases of stress in children (including teething and general ‘crankiness’). Rubbing into the solar plexus is a commonly used application if that is where one tends to ‘hold tension’. Chamomile essential oil is available in to varieties, German or Blue Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The Roman variety is most often used for stress relief, whereas the German variety has the added bonus of being an extremely effective anti-inflammatory.

Oil #5: Eucalyptus
Another essential oil with a broad range of properties, Eucalyptus is most often used for respiratory conditions, being useful in clearing congestion with coughs and colds. However, it’s effects are certainly not limited to the airways – because of it’s broad range of effects, it has been called the aromatherapists ‘designer oil’. Eucalyptus oil can cool the body in Summer (or due to fever – use in a compress), and support the immune system in Winter. Diffusing Eucalyptus oil can kill most staphylococcus bacteria, again being supportive of bronchial infections. It is considered equally effective in cases of cystitis, candida, and sunburn, to name a few, as well as being an insect repellent.

Oil #6: Geranium
Geranium (sometimes known as ‘Geranium Rose’) works wonderfully on both physiological and psychological levels. It’s floral aroma is brightening and uplifting, while also working as a sedative. Malte Hozzel has made this statement regarding this oil: "Geranium’s vital, sensual presence is not subtle, but direct & unavoidable, making it one of the oils of choice for aphrodisiac qualities. (Geranium Essential Oil) inspires natural beauty & enjoyment, uplifts instantly & "tonifies" the mind & intellect in a powerful, nearly demanding attitude. Mobilizing hidden creative & emotional reserves, helping us to rise to our own earthly & spiritual identify. A fiery beauty for the spells of all worlds." Particularly noted for it’s effect on female physiologic conditions, Geranium oil can be effective for menopausal problems, uterine and breast complaints.

Oil #7: Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil is an effective physical and mental stimulant, whether used in a diffuser or in a morning bath. It’s slightly spicy, rather than floral aroma, has a warming effect particularly useful for arthritic joints and other muscular complaints. It also has a long history of treatment for colds and flu – Rosemary was a component of ‘Four Thieves Vinegar’, which robbers rubbed upon their bodies to prevent infection when up to no good during the plague years of the middle ages. Also, Rosemary is the essential oil most often associated with improving hair growth in cases of Alopecia.

Oil #8: Thyme
Thyme oil is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, antiseptic and diuretic, though it should be employed with great care. There are many types of Thyme oil available, but only the ‘linalol’ chemotype is appropriate for use with children; all varieties should be diluted prior to topical application. Given the precautions, Thyme can be a first line of defense in cases of flu, being used in a room diffuser. It also supports elimination of toxic wastes from the body (particularly noted for excessive uric acid), and it’s warming quality can eliminate mucous and phlegm. It’s application for the digestive system is that of a powerful anti-parasitic, and for the muscular system, it can be helpful for rheumatic aches and pains. Thyme oil may also be supportive in cases of hair loss.

Oil #9: Lemon
A recent study on test-taking college students showed the diffusion of Lemon oil into a room improved test scores more than any other oil. In addition to it’s mind-brightening qualities, it can also disinfect room air and act as a natural deodorant. Lemon has been noted to support liver function, and is also commonly used to assist in weight loss and cellulite reduction. In blends, lemon adds a pleasant top note, and can create a synergistic effect with other oils. Finally, Lemon oil is commonly used as both a fragrance and flavoring agent.

Oil #10: Clove
The power of Clove essential oil is noted upon the first sensing of the aroma – it is quite strong, sharp and earthy. Clove oil has been found to be the strongest anti-oxidant of any essential oil, and is a component of ‘longevity’ formulas. It is also an extremely potent antibacterial, effective against a broader range of microbes than any other oil except perhaps Oregano – Clove oil has even been employed to sterilize surgical instruments. Clove also has analgesic properties, and can be used to temporarily reduce the pain of toothache. Clove oil (or ground cloves) is also a component of Dr. Huda Clark’s anti-parasite protocol, helping eliminate parasites from one’s digestive system. This is a very powerful oil which should be diluted to 1% or less for topical application.

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