Natural Remedies Tips And Information

You may have heard the expression "an apple a day keeps the doctor away". While it takes more than eating an apple a day to stay healthy, it's a fact that apples are fruits rich in nutrients.

Apples contain iron, vitamins A, C, E and B complex, phosphorus, boron and folate. Apples are also high in potassium, soluble and insoluble fiber, flavonoids and pectin; pectin prevents the absorption of bad fats and regulates blood sugar. An important compound found in this fruit is called ellagic acid, which acts as a cancer protection agent. In general, apples have been used to alleviate insomnia, to stop diarrhea and control hypoglycemia.

While there are many varieties of apples Red Delicious is the one packed with the most nutrients.

March 3, 2006 15:17 - Natural ADD Supplements

In the past 10 years the number of children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD has grown dramatically. Symptoms of this disease include lack of focus and concentration, impulsiveness, irritability, forgetfulness and trouble completing tasks.

When parents start looking for answers it is the drug Ritalin that is offered up as the most common solution. However, even though Ritalin seems to offer hope it does not constitute a cure and can have serious side-effects such as loss of appetite, headaches, gastrointestinal problems and depression, to name a few.

Because of these side effects many parents are looking to more effective natural alternatives. Natural ADD/ADHD supplements include gingko biloba and skullcap which help the nervous system, among other benefits. Others include Chamomile which has a calming effect, gotu kola and wild oats.

Although we have witnessed a rise in the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD it's encouraging to know that there are proven natural medicines that are helping children and adults alike who are suffering with this condition. Learn more about how these natural supplements can help.

March 6, 2006 12:09 - What can a healthy gut do for you?

When we think of bacteria it generally has negative connotations, right? But beneficial bacteria that live in the gut play a key role in maintaining good health. In fact it is this microflora that helps your body absorb certain vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, support your immune system function, prevent the overgrowth of yeast and fungus and protect the body against the invasion of alien bacteria such as E-Coli.

According to the Colon Health Handbook, the colon should have at least 85% lactobacillus and 15 % coliform bacteria - the "bad guys". Even if you don't know how many of these bad guys are out there, you should know that aspirin, corticosteroids, antibiotics, oral contraceptives and stress can kill the good bugs resulting in excessive gas, bloating, intestinal toxicity and conditions such as Candida Albicans.

Now that we know that some bacteria is not only friendly, but necessary, here's how you can maintain a proper balance of friendly bacteria: eat foods high in fiber regularly. These may include oat bran, wheat bran, psyllium husk, fruits, vegetables and legumes. On the other hand, avoid high consumption of red meat and use digestive aids like enzymes to facilitate the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins so they don't get trapped in the colon.

And, of course, don't forget to drink your water (0.67 oz. per pound of body weight) to ensure proper bulking of fiber.

March 9, 2006 10:16 - What's the deal with Water?

Ever wonder just what it is about water that makes it so essential? Check this out and test your water IQ.

Did you know that water...

helps regulate your body's temperature

reduces fat deposits

flushes out toxins and bodily wastes

helps maintain muscle tone

aids the digestion process

helps reduce fluid retention

improves endocrine gland function

relieves constipation

helps maintain supple skin

helps kidneys function properly

So , now that you know how important water is to your body's healthy functioning it shouldn't be a problem to drink lots, right? Ideally, you should drink 0.67 ounces of water per pound of body weight. That means that if you weight 130 pounds, you should drink close to 11 glasses of this precious liquid a day. If you are a coffee, tea or soda drinker, none of these count - you need the fresh clear stuff.

Don't wait until you feel thirsty before you drink water, as by this time you may already be dehydrated!

March 14, 2006 13:57 - Vitamin C, histamine and allergies

Although vitamin C is not an antihistamine it can have a positive effect on allergies by helping to reduce symptoms.

Many studies show that high doses of vitamin C can help reduce the histamine release from mast cells found in connective tissue that store inflammatory mediators that play a major role in allergy reactions. These studies also reveal that vitamin C helps accelerate histamine breakdown after it has been released. And there's more people with vitamin C deficiency have been found to have elevated levels of histamine in their blood increasing their chances of an allergic episode.

Some sources of vitamin C are guava, kiwi, grapefruit, berries, lemons, oranges, mangos, peaches, tangerines, cantaloupe, avocados, broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, kale, onions, spinach and tomatoes.

Supplementing with a daily dose of 1000 to 4000 milligrams may help you fight the symptoms of allergies. Be aware that every person's tolerance for Vitamin C varies; a quick way to tell if your body has reached its tolerance level is if you start experiencing increased gas or diarrhea.

March 15, 2006 14:59 - Why are Brussels Sprouts Good for You?

It's a fact that many people have never tried Brussels sprouts because they find these little green nuggets most uninspiring with a slightly bitter flavor; the fact they can cause flatulence to some may also be a bit of a drawback. However, the truth is that these veggies are packed with powerful nutrients, which have catapulted them to the top of the list of leafy green vegetables that lower the risk of stomach cancer and inhibit the growth of pre-cancerous polyps in the colon.

Additionally, Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, help prevent constipation, bring down blood pressure and can be used in a diet to lower cholesterol levels.

The nutrients contained in these vegetables include: folic acid, iron and antioxidants like, vitamin C and beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Beta-carotene helps boost the immune system and protect your body from cancer, heart disease and other degenerative conditions.

Now that you know you need them, here's how to cook them first of all, buy the smallest and greenest available; cut the stem and steam them briefly (5-8 minutes since they get tender quickly); for flavour add a pinch of salt and caraway or dill. Serve them hot or cold.

March 16, 2006 11:48 - Niacin benefits for Alzheimer's disease

Niacin, or vitamin B3, is known for its cholesterol lowering properties. But what's interesting is that this vitamin has been linked to mental agility and cognitive abilities as well.

In a recent study performed by researchers at the Chicago Institute for Healthy Aging it was found that residents of the area, aged 65 and older, had different levels of cognitive abilities linked to their consumption of foods rich in niacin.

3,718 seniors were monitored and tested for a period of 6 years and it was discovered that those eating foods totalling 22 mg of niacin per day were 70% less likely to have developed Alzheimer's disease than those whose intake was about 12.6 mg a day. Also, it was noted that their rate of age-related cognitive decline was considerably less - cognitive decline was reduced by a remarkable 44% amongst the people that took higher amounts of niacin.

To boost your body's niacin's levels include the following in your diet: crimini mushrooms, tuna, yellowfin, shrimp, Chinook (?), salmon, cod, turkey breast, chicken breast, tomato, spinach, squash, green peas, eggplants and eggs.

Sometimes it's hard to eat enough of the right things. For extra insurance it is good to take a comprehensive supplement that contains this important vitamin, and more, to safeguard your good health.

March 17, 2006 18:18 - Natural Anxiety Relief

You may suffer from serious stress and anxiety. You may have even turned to prescriptions to help you deal with the overwhelming sense of dread that invades your life. While numerous drugs are effective in treating these problems, you may not always be aware of the risks involved in long-term use. There are a number of herbs on the market that are just as successful in relieving anxiety symptoms without the fear of unwanted side effects. These herbs have the power to provide natural anxiety relief and among them are:

Passion flower and lavandula Augustifolia. These two herbs are well known for relieving your symptoms of anxiety. Passion flower has proven effective in treating insomnia, anxiety and nervousness. It is also believed to be useful in reducing high blood pressure.

Lavandula augustifolia, or lavender, is useful in treating anxiety, restlessness, and depression. It is a very popular essential oil that can be applied directly to the skin or added to bath water. Lavender pillows are a hot selling item used for aromatherapy purposes. The pillows can be placed in your bedroom or any area of your home and used for relaxation.

Natural herbal formulas are also a less expensive way to treat anxiety and stress. The next time you're troubled by symptoms of anxiety, try fighting them with natural treatments for anxiety instead and you'll see the results.

March 20, 2006 09:12 - Herbs and pregnancy... which to avoid

As more people become interested in alternative health methods, herbs are gaining in popularity for their medicinal value. However, there are a lot of herbs expectant women should avoid during their pregnancy. Just like prescription medications, certain herbs can cause unwanted side effects and health issues. You should discuss the risk of taking specific herbs with your doctor beforehand. While not all herbs are harmful during pregnancy, you should not take any herbs without your physician's approval. You don't want to do anything to harm the life of your baby.

The following herbs should never be taken at any time during pregnancy:

Nutmeg, which is used for heart problems and nervous disorders, can cause a miscarriage if taken in large quantities.

Some herbs such as pennyroyal leaf, mugwort, and blue cohosh act as uterine stimulants. Their purpose is to speed up or induce labor.

Henbane is an herb that is used externally to relieve pain. It is highly toxic and can cause symptoms such as delirium and convulsions if ingested.

Even herbal teas can cause miscarriage or preterm labor if consumed in large quantities. While herbs can be a great alternative to conventional medicines, many of them should be avoided during pregnancy. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

March 23, 2006 15:20 - Safe herbs for sleep problems in children

Is your little girl or boy suffering from insomnia? Teething, apprehension, excess sugar and the absence of a bedtime routine can add to sleep problems. While it's very important to identify which factors are causing insomnia in your child there are some steps you can take to help your kid sleep better.

For instance… is his/her diet full of sugar? Sugar causes hyperactivity and insomnia. Limit the amount of sugar and sweets and preferably give your child that sweet treat early during the day not at night. Also, set a bedtime and stick to it everyday. And try reading a book or telling him/her a nice story to help him/her relax.

You may also want to consider an herbal and safe supplement that contains proven herbs that help settle down and sleep better. Certain herbs that can be taken by children include chamomile. Chamomile helps to put the body at ease and acts as a mild sedative relaxing the body's muscles. This herb can be taken in a liquid form and right before bedtime.

Other know herb for its calming properties is passion flower. This is widely used to relieve insomnia, anxiety, and nervousness. You can find safe and professional formulas that have been designed especially for children. By adjusting the diet, setting a bedtime routine and trying alternative herbal remedies your child - and you, can have sweet dreams.

March 25, 2006 12:37 - Stimulate the Thyroid Function with Coleus Forskohlii

Most people are unfamiliar with the herb coleus forskohlii. Coleus forskohlii, also called forskolin or makandi, is a member of the mint family. The herb originated in India and is now grown throughout the world. It has been used to treat a number of health issues such as: angina, asthma, eczema, hypothyroidism, and psoriasis. There are few known side effects of forskohlii. However, if you suffer from ulcers, you should not use this herb since it is believed to increase stomach acid levels.

Many people, women especially, suffer from a disorder known as hypothyroidism. The thyroid is under active and doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones for optimum health. Hypothyroidism is ten times more common in women than men. For those of us trying to lose weight, hypothyroidism can make it nearly impossible to shed those unwanted pounds.

Here are some common symptoms of hypothyroidism: dry skin, depression, fatigue, and weight gain...Sound familiar?

Coleus forskohlii is helpful in treating hypothyroidism and hashimotos disease. It stimulates and increases the amount of thyroid hormones released. It can help you lose weight and improve your mood, which is always a good thing. Coleus forskohlii is most commonly purchased in capsule or liquid form and can be taken daily every time you eat.

After about three days of using this herb, you should experience a noticeable improvement in your mood and energy level, and who couldn't use that? Most people on a long-term basis can take coleus forskohlii without producing unwanted side effects. If an under active thyroid is making your feel sluggish and overweight, learn more about Coleus forskohlii which could be a natural solution to your problem.

March 27, 2006 16:23 - Herbal remedies for cystitis

Cystitis can be an overwhelming medical condition that causes serious discomfort and pain in your pelvis and which is a bit challenging to diagnose - and it can be even more challenging to treat. Urinary tract infections are normally treated with drugs that fight infections such as antibiotics. An urine test will help the doctor discover which bacteria is causing UTI and the type of antibiotic will be prescribed accordingly. Antibiotics may not be the only solution to cystitis or the more effective. There are some natural cures for bladder infections that can help you deal with this problem in a successful way too and without creating resistance to these drugs.

One treatment you could investigate is one that includes birch and buchu leaves, which can be quite helpful in the treatment of cystitis. You could also try the roots, leaves, and flowers of the echinacea plant. Also, the leaves and flowers of a goldenrod have been shown to have a positive effect, as have the flowers of the ribwort plant. If you choose to use any of these herbal remedies for cystitis, you could use them in an infusion or in a natural remedy that contains them all. To make an infusion, add two to four teaspoons of the fresh ingredients to eight ounces of boiling water. Let it sit for ten minutes. Strain it, and drink it three times per day. You may either choose to drink it hot or cold.

March 28, 2006 18:56 - Herbs for menopause

Millions of American women are currently fighting the symptoms of menopause; if you're one of them you know how frustrating it can be.

Menopause changes you with its own force; it changes every part of your body in ways that you never imagined. Once you begin to suffer the symptoms of menopause, you want more than a little bit of relief…you may want to feel and look the way you used to. However, menopause is a process that cannot be stopped. Modern medicine offers hormone replacement therapy as a solution to menopausal symptoms but this may not be the safest route available. If you prefer a natural approach and believe in alternative medicine you may want to try herbs that will help you deal with your menopause symptoms in a more safe and natural way.

One great remedy for menopause is an herb called Black Cohosh. This herb can help you relieve certain menopause symptoms like hot flashes and can also be used to treat night sweats and mood changes.

Another good herbal remedy is Don Quai, which contains plant estrogens that help reduce hot flashes. Both herbs are well known among many women who suffer with menopausal symptoms and thousands of women swear by them. You can get them separately or in a comprehensive formula that has been created specifically for the unique needs of women.

March 30, 2006 11:18 - Herbs for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that happens when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone T3 and T4. Considering that the thyroid gland plays a key role in many bodily functions, an overactive thyroid can have different negative effects on your overall health. One of the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism or Graves Disease is heart palpitations.

Many people rely on prescription medications to relieve their ailments and that includes hyperthyroidism. But the reality is that there are certain herbs and natural compounds that can help with this complex condition.

Leonurus cardiac, also called Motherwort is an herb effective in soothing treating heart palpitations, nervousness and anxiety. Tachycardia is a heart condition characterized by a high heartbeat rate of over one hundred beats per minute. Leonurus cardiac can be used to effectively treat this disorder since this herb contains leonurine, an alkaloid that is capable of calming irregular heartbeats and palpitations. The herb's name refers to its ability to treat symptoms of anxiety and stress, especially in women. It is often taken by women following childbirth or during menopause.

Motherwort is believed to contain chemicals that calm the blood vessels in the heart resulting in a lower heartbeat rate. Clinical studies have proven Motherwort effective in lowering both blood pressure and heart rate. Most people can take it on a daily basis without producing ill or annoying side effects.

March 31, 2006 15:39 - ADD and food allergies

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are quite common among kids of all ages. These disorders are a serious problem, as they can interfere with all aspects of a child's life including school, socialization, and home affairs. Children who suffer from ADD, ADHD, and hyperactivity are very easily distracted. They have trouble focusing on a single task and this can lead to signs of frustration including self-destructive behaviors.

Both disorders, and hyperactivity in general are believed by scientists to be problems of the nervous system. Finding the causes of these conditions, though, is a bit difficult and it can be frustrating for both the doctor and the parent. While many scientific studies have been completed there is little conclusive evidence as to the definitive cause of the problem. Some studies point to a genetic cause. Other studies show that trauma can cause these disorders.

One thing that is certain and that has been proven by many parents is that a better control over these conditions can be found by dealing with potential food allergies and nutritional imbalances. Food additives, refined sugar, and milk can play a huge role in children with ADD and ADHD. Learning to identify and deal with your child's nutritional needs and food allergies can help reduce the symptoms associated with ADD and ADHD.