Allergy season: 8 powerful Herbal Treatments for Allergy Relief

It is that time of the year again. Time for sneezing, watery eyes, congested sinuses, itching, and headaches. Allergy season is here, and millions of people are going to turn to Claritin, Zyrtec, Benadryl and other dangerous medicines to get relief from their symptoms. Allergies are one the most common chronic conditions worldwide. In Fact,

• Nasal allergies affect approximately 50 million people in the United States.


• Allergies are increasing. They affect around 30% of adults and 40% of children.


• Allergy disorder and asthma is the fifth leading chronic disease in the U.S.. And it is the third most frequent chronic condition in children under 18 years old.

An allergic response occurs in the immune system. If you experience an allergy, your immune system mistakes an otherwise harmless substance (allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander and mold) as an intruder. The immune system exaggerates to the allergen by creating IgE antibodies. These antibodies progress to your cells that release histamine and other substances, resulting in an allergic reaction. A common condition for seasonal allergies is Allergic Rhinitis also called Hay Fever. Pollen is the most common allergen. It causes symptoms such as a stuffy and itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, watery and itchy eyes. In severe cases, allergies may also trigger symptoms of asthma. Allergic rhinitis can be both seasonal and perennial.

Most doctors would prescribe you antihistamines to help reduce symptoms. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine. By blocking histamine and keeping it from binding to receptors, antihistamines inhibit these symptoms. While antihistamines can be quite efficient at managing your symptoms, there have a plenty of possible side effects and issues. Some of the most common are drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, sore throat, nausea and more. Moreover, and most importantly, they do not stop the problem from occurring in the first place; they just mask the symptoms.

Luckily, there are natural alternatives like eating your antihistamines in the form of healthy herbs, spices and vitamins. Moreover, some of the natural alternatives can even address the root cause and not only mask your symptoms. If you like this article, please follow my work on my FB page (contacts below article).

And now let’s take a look at top 8 herbal remedies for seasonal allergies:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has strong anti-histamine action and detoxifies unknown substances invading your body. As a natural antihistamine, Vitamin C works by suppressing the molecular structure of histamine, thereby limiting the amount of histamine in your blood.

Preliminary research implies it might help reduce allergy symptoms. For example, a study published in the European Respiratory Journal discovered that eating fruits high in Vitamin C helped to lessen asthma symptoms in 8-year-olds subjects. Another study found evidence to confirm the role of Vitamin C supplementation in adults who experienced allergic rhinitis.

It is also recommended to take bioflavonoids (for example in rose hips) together with Vitamin C, which strengthens the effect.

How to take:

Tips: I am not a big fan of synthetic Vitamin C as ascorbic acid. Therefore I recommend natural forms such as Rose Hips or Camu Camu; another good choice is Liposomal Vitamin C made from sodium ascorbate. Liposomal vitamin C passes through the digestive barrier and delivers the nutrient directly to the bloodstream. This method has a much higher absorption rate with over 90% of the cells being soaked in vitamin C (oral vitamin C intake has a 20% absorption rate). Some experts even suggest that liposomal vitamin C may be even superior to IV vitamin C.

Dosing: Typical dosages can be up to 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (such as Quercetin) three times a day. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, so any surplus that the body does not need will be flushed out through the urine. However, higher doses may cause GI distress.

Butterbur

Butterbur is used with success for seasonal allergies, migraines, and asthma and several scientific papers back this up. Studies show that an extract of butterbur is just as effective at alleviating nasal symptoms as popular prescription antihistamines. Butterbur contains a number of substances such as petasin and isopetasin, which have analgesic and antispasmodic properties. It reduces inflammation by reducing secretion of histamine and leukotrienes by immune cells.

Several scientific studies indicate it can indeed help with allergic rhinitis. One extensive study of over a hundred people with hay fever found that an extract of butterbur was as effective as Zyrtec. Another medical study compared butterbur to Allegra with similar findings.

Conclusions of some other studies:

• Butterbur is efficient and safe therapy for the treatment of asthma.


• It is useful for the treatment for occasional allergic rhinitis symptoms and is very well tolerated.


• Butterbur is as effective as fexofenadine in relieving nasal symptoms in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis (a study involving 330 people!)


• It presents protection against chemically-induced nasal responsiveness in seasonal allergic rhinitis.

”In a study administered in four Swiss and German general medicine and allergy clinics, 125 hay fever patients were divided into two groups. One received butterbur root extract; the other, Zyrtec. After two weeks of the test treatment, the butterbur and Zyrtec were equally efficient at relieving the usual distress and lack of energy often accompanied with spring and seasonal allergies, says study author Andreas Schapowal, MD, a Swiss ear, nose, and throat surgeon. In the following study, Schapowal found that treatment with butterbur root extract also decreased nasal allergy symptoms, such as itching, sneezing, congestion and runny nose, but also watery eyes.”

How to take:

Tips:  Low-quality butterbur may contain potentially harmful liver-toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Look for quality PA-free butterbur such as butterbur root extract Petadolex or any other extract from a quality well-known manufacturer.

Dosing: Trials in a migraine, allergic rhinitis, and asthma have used butterbur extracts in dosages ranging from 50 to 100 mg twice daily. Doses up to 500 mg per day seems safe.

Quercetin

Another compound is Quercetin, which is one of the most powerful flavonoids on the planet. Quercetin can help allergy symptoms because it stops immune cells from creating histamines, which can trigger those often terrible allergic reactions. In fact, it is so powerful that you may find Quercetin in some ancient Chinese herbal formulas designed to block allergies to certain foods such as peanuts.

Quercetin is a plant pigment that occurs in various plants and foods; such as red wine, capers, red onions, red grapes, quinoa, green tea, apples, berries, tomatoes, peppers, green leafy veggies, cruciferous vegetables, asparagus, legumes, and beans. Fruits with a dark red or blue color usually have the highest quercetin content. Quercetin is a very potent antioxidant; it lowers inflammation, supports your cardiovascular system, helps fight pain, and also shows some promise as an anti-cancer compound and more. You can obtain quercetin from the foods above, or you can ingest it in a supplement form, a popular combination is quercetin-bromelain, which I use as well, and it is very effective for allergies and sinus problems amongst other benefits.

Research show that quercetin is comparable at fighting allergies as some prescription medications, and again with little to no side effects. It hinders the release of histamine that is responsible for the inflammation. In test tubes, it effectively stops the production and release of histamine, which creates allergy symptoms such as watery eyes and runny nose.

“Quercetin is the herbal equal to cromolyn sodium [in the over-the-counter spray NasalCrom],” “The evidence is encouraging.”

How to take:

Tips: You should use it as a long term remedy, about 4-6 weeks before allergy season to help prevent the symptoms. I recommend taking it together with bromelain.

Dosing: Though you can find Quercetin in certain foods, it is quite challenging to get the amount needed to help with allergies from food alone. Recommended dosage is usually 500mg three times a day for the most benefits.

Bromelain

Another allergy helper is a substance people usually do not normally know as an allergy aid. Nevertheless, it helps! Bromelain is a protein extract from the stems of pineapples, though the juice from the pineapple’s flesh contains bromelain as well. It is an enzyme composite and is often used in digestive enzyme supplement formulas. Bromelain’s other health benefits include sinus problems, asthma, allergies and joint pain. Bromelain is commonly marketed as a natural anti-inflammatory for ailments such as arthritis. It is one of the most popular natural supplements in Germany, where it is approved by the Commission E for the treatment of inflammation and swelling of the sinuses and nose due to injury or surgery. Some studies have found that bromelain is effective in reducing nasal swelling and thinning mucus, making it easier for people to breathe. It reduces phlegm in respiratory conditions such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma.

Bromelain reduces the production of cytokines (inflammatory chemicals) and decreases the migration of inflammatory immune cells to sites of inflammation. Some studies suggest that bromelain helps modulate the entire immune system and that it can prevent allergies by targeting the root cause – an over-sensitive immune system.

”A trial involving 116 children found that bromelain was helpful in lessening symptoms of sinusitis, with those taking bromelain recovering significantly more quickly than those on placebo.”

How to take:

Tips: Bromelain enhances the absorption of Quercetin. I recommend taking them together.

Dosing: Allergy sufferers can take between 500 mg and 2,000 mg a day divided into two or three doses. Take on an empty stomach to maximize absorption (if taking for protein digestion, take with meals of course).

Turmeric

Yes, turmeric, ‘the cure it all‘ superstar : ) Turmeric is one the most well-researched plants in the world with hundreds of possible health benefits. There are thousands of scientific papers available on turmeric medicinal properties. Extensive research over the past few decades has shown that it plays a significant role in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases. Curcumin, the main substance, is non-toxic and has a variety of therapeutic properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-cancer, also possess antimicrobial activities and numerous others. It helps in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic, autoimmune diseases, but also diabetes and arthritis.

Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory. It eliminates excess mucus in the sinuses and aids in healing the respiratory tissue. Curcumin is helpful in bronchial asthma and other lung problems. It is beneficial for allergy sufferers as well. Many people report success with treating their allergies with turmeric tea.

Research has revealed that turmeric reduces inflammation by decreasing the histamine levels. ”(Curcumin inhibits Syk kinase-dependent signaling events in mast cells and might thus contribute to its antiallergic activity).” Another study says that Curcumin may help to increase antioxidant enzymes and decrease oxidative stress in allergic rhinitis. Researchers recommend curcumin to decrease oxidative stress in allergic rhinitis.

How to take:

Tips: Take turmeric with some healthy fat and black pepper to significantly increase absorption and bioavailability, which is otherwise very low. Quercetin and bromelain seem to enhance absorption too. Check more in my other article here http://www.naturalnewsblogs.com/increase-bioavailability-turmeric-2000-amazing-benefits/  ; Always buy from a well-known organic brand, because many turmeric powders may contain relatively high amounts of heavy metals and/or other contaminants. Caution: curcumin is a powerful yellow pigment, and it may permanently discolor surfaces.

Dosing: One or two teaspoons two times a day (1.5-3g) or 400-1500mg extract (95% curcuminoids) per day total. Dosages of curcumin up to 8g per day have been used – Higher doses may cause adverse GI effects.

Stinging Nettle

Many people swear by this old traditional medicine for allergies. Another superstar – Often used as an allergy treatment; this botanical is considered to be a useful histamine blocker as well as an inflammation fighter. There’s some evidence that using stinging nettle after the first sign of allergic signs can in fact help. However, despite its common use, there are not many studies backing up stinging nettle’s effectiveness as an allergy treatment. It is more a traditional folk medicine like ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar), but there are some studies. One small study implied that stinging nettle might help lessen symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

In a randomized, double-blind study, subjects with allergies reported fewer symptoms after one week use of freeze-dried nettle. Moreover, research from 2009 provides promising results for the first time:

”A mechanistic understanding of the role of nettle extracts in reducing allergic and other inflammatory responses. Nettle extract (Urtica dioica) affects key receptors and enzymes associated with allergic rhinitis. A nettle extract shows in vitro inhibition of several key inflammatory events that cause the symptoms of seasonal allergies.”

To sum up, Stinging nettle’s anti-inflammatory characteristics affect a variety of enzymes and key receptors in allergic reactions, inhibiting hay fever signs if taken when they first emerge.

How to take:

Tips: Be sure to choose extracts of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) leaf, not the root, which is used to treat prostate ailments. Go with a Freeze Dried extract or tincture; in fact, Herbalists often recommends Tincture for instant relief.

Dosing: Dosing depends on the potency of the extract; therefore use as directed. Freeze-dried nettle leaf 600 mg has been used in a clinical trial for allergic rhinitis.

MSM

This one is my favorite for allergies. For some reason, it is often forgotten. Sulfur is one of the most prominent composites in our bodies, just behind sodium and water. In fact, it is the fourth most abundant mineral in your body. Sulfur is involved in the production of energy in body cells, and the formation of antibodies. Scientist Dr. Jacob concluded that the sulfur in MSM, called sulfonyl, is as safe and as important as vitamin C in our diet, unlike the bad sulfurs: sulfas, sulfites, sulfates, and sulfides. MSM is a composite found naturally in foods such as cow’s milk, seafood, meat, veggies, and fruits. It has positive wide-spectrum effects, especially in maintaining healthy cell formation. MSM softens the cell walls, allowing foreign particles such as allergens, and any free-radicals to be flushed out of your system. It is used to help with number of conditions, including allergies.

MSM does not act as an anti-histamine compound that hinders histamine production. Its effectiveness is probably due to the capability to block the receptivity of histamine in the delicate tissue of the mucus membranes of nasal passages. This process prevents the histamine from forming the inflammation and swelling that usually accompanies allergies. Allergy sufferers that have taken MSM have reported back to their doctors that their pain levels were fifty percent less, or better, after using this supplement. Most patients report improvement and a reduction in pain and allergy symptoms within a week. Researchers believe that MSM works in a similar way to aspirin; to reduce pain and swelling due to inflammation.

”In addition, Dr. Mercola notes, MSM is 34% sulfur, which your body needs. Sulfur helps the body detoxify itself, and also helps build glutathione, an important antioxidant. MSM is very safe and you can take it at high doses, even if one’s diet is full of MSM-rich foods. Those of our staff who found a full relief took more than 2600 mg: up to 10,000 mg a day in divided doses. At these doses, it is often more beneficial to take MSM as a powder rather than a capsule, most of which contain 1,000 mg.’‘

”In one study, patients who received 2600 mg of MSM found their upper and total respiratory symptoms significantly reduced within 7 days, and improvement continued for the whole 30 days of that study (from the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine).”

How to take:

Tips: Get the pure powder form, without any fillers and additives. Personally, I use organic sulphur Derived from pine lignans sourced from marine pine trees.

Dosing: Dr. Earl L. Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., suggests allergy sufferers start using at least 6,000mg of MSM daily for three weeks in divided doses and reduce to 3,000mg per day after that. Also, he advises people drink more water and boost their intake of Vitamin C to lower histamine levels. The ideal dosage would depend on your body size. Sometimes, it takes up to 3 weeks to notice effects.

Neti Pot / Saline Rinse:

This one is not any herb or supplement, but it is so helpful that it should be on the list too.
The simple theory is that you use a Neti Pot filled with a saline solution to clean out the sinuses of allergens and irritations. Either use a pre-made sterile saline rinse or make your own by dissolving one teaspoon of Himalayan salt (or sea salt) in a cup of boiled distilled water. Let it cool and put in your Neti Pot. Pour through one nostril and let it flow out the other, then switch sides.

VIDEO and INSTRUCTIONS: https://www.himalayaninstitute.org/about/press/neti-pot/
CAUTION: You need to use distilled water, never use an unboiled tap water !!
TIP: I also add a drop or two of oregano oil, a teaspoon of coconut oil, and some MSM, but just salt rinse will do.

More Quick Tips:

Probiotics – it all starts in your gut, your allergies may simply be the result of an imbalance in your gut where your immune system exists. Therefore, proper diet and plenty od probiotics are essential for your allergies and health in general. Additionally, one small study suggests that L. acidophilus, a type of “friendly” bacteria, might help reduce allergic reaction to pollen. Moreover, new research links the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut with reduced incidence of allergies.

Nasal Sprays and Eye,Ear Drops – Natural nasal sprays offers relief as well, I recommend nasal spray with GSE or silver, for eye drops: get natural or homeopathic. If you have itchy ears try mullein-garlic oil ear drops.

Diet and Vitamins – processed foods, junk foods, hydrogenated oils, white flour, sugar, high salt intake, preservatives, msg, artificial sweeteners, diet drinks and many other poor food choices are harmful to your health, and all of these can worsen your allergies or even creating them. Get adequate levels of vitamin D, B and eat plenty of veggies. Switching to a healthy anti-inflammatory diet, removing all toxic foods and toxins from your home, drinking raw vegetable juices and leading a healthy lifestyle (no alcohol, no smoking, reducing stress) in general are crucial steps.

Superfoods – some superfoods like Spirulina stops the release of histamine, which contributes to symptoms of allergic rhinitis, thus may help protect against harmful allergic reactions. Another beneficiary superfood for allergy sufferers is medicinal mushroom Reishi.

Other Helpful Herbs for Sinuses, Allergies and Lungs – Astragalus Root, Andrographis, GSE, Horseradish, Horehound, GoldenRod, Rosmarinic acid, Timothy Grass extract, Tinospora cordifolia, Perilla, Pycnogenol, Garlic, Ginger and NAC (N-Acetyl L-Cysteine: reduces the viscosity of mucus and clears your lungs).

Essential Oils / Steaming – especially steaming with oils like peppermint and eucalyptus can clear up your sinuses and relieve your allergy symptoms.

Air purifier – quality air purifier such as IQ AIR can remove significant percent of allergen particles in your home. For heavy allergy sufferers it is a big help to get a quality purifier with real HEPA filter and which does not create ozone.

Homeopathics and other Home Remedies – such as Apple Cider Vinegar, raw honey, and certain herbal teas may help too; you may want to try some homeopathic formulas as well, I found some to be quite effective.

Safety, Side Effects:

Any of these herbs can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
Butterbur may interact with some medications that are processed by the liver. Also, it can cause stomach upset, headache, and minor drowsiness. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children should not take butterbur.
Do not take Stinging Nettle without talking to your doctor first if you have diabetes or if you take blood pressure medication, blood thinners, or diuretics. Not suitable for pregnant women.
Turmeric 1, 2
Bromelain has a blood-thining action, and some people are allergic to pineapple products.
Quercetin in higher doses may interfere with some medications.

When you add any of these herbs to your diet in any way, start small and monitor your body’s response. As always, consult a medical professional or qualified herbalist before adding a powerful new components like this to your herbal regimen. In fact, It would be best to work with a natural medicine practitioner who is well-educated on using herbal medicine. It is especially important if you have any medical condition, taking any medications or if you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman; and if you plan to start giving herbs to your kids.

Final Words:

These natural treatments often work best if started early in the season before pollen counts become too high. As you can see, we do not need big pharma’s antihistamines. Some of these herbs not only helps with the symptoms but actually address the root cause. Don’t forget that healthy lifestyle and your diet contributes a lot. Personally, before my spring allergies occur, I start to user nettle leaf, butterbur, quercetin with bromelain, Andrographis and I up my dosages of vitamin C, MSM and turmeric and my symptoms are close to zero. I wish you a symptom-free allergic season. Finally, Don’t forget to check my other articles on my FB page (contacts below).

Sources:

1. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Fifth Edition: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & Food Supplements, by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC.


2. The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements, by Dr Sarah Brewer.


3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19140159


4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21625024


5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15005644


6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15611396


7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15080820


8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12859442


9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16337164


10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22894886


11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18394691


12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27146978


13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2192379


14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19140159


15. http://acaai.org/news/facts-statistics/allergies


16. http://www.myvitamins.com/articles/abcs-of-good-health/vitamin-c-for-allergy-relief/


17. http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/allergic-rhinitis


18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16313688


19. http://www.naturalhealth365.com/liposomal-c.html/


20. http://www.hoyespharmacy.com/allergy-relief-with-bromelain-and-quercetin/


21. https://learningherbs.com/remedies-recipes/allergy-relief/


22. http://www.anh-usa.org/overwhelmed-by-spring-allergies/


23. https://www.nutriteam.com/msm-allergies


24. https://draxe.com/6-unbelievable-health-benefits-bromelain/


25. https://draxe.com/quercetin/


26. https://draxe.com/stinging-nettle/

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Allergy season: 8 powerful Herbal Treatments for Allergy Relief

Sleep Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Sleep is a vital part of our physical and mental well-being but unfortunately, thousands of people suffer from a variety of sleep disorders.  Some can be very mild and barely noticed by the effected person such as snoring or grinding of the teeth while asleep.  Others can be much more severe and even dangerous such as the type of sleep disorders that interfere with breathing or that cause a person to fall asleep at random times beyond their control.

Symptoms:

Disorder sleep symptoms can range from small, minor symptoms to much more severe and troublesome.  Here is a list of some of the more common sleep disorders and their symptoms.

Restless Leg Syndrome: As the name suggests this disorder is characterized by involuntary jerky leg movements that can make falling asleep difficult.

Bruxism: This disorder involves a clenching of the jaw or grinding your teeth while you are asleep and is often not noticed by the person suffering from the disorder

Sleepwalking: Perhaps one of the most well-known sleep disorders, this disorder sleep symptom involves walking or performing other routine activities such as getting dressed or making breakfast while in a sleep state.  Again, the sleepwalker is unaware of their actions.

Narcolepsy: One of the more serious and dangerous of the sleep disorders; those who suffer from Narcolepsy may fall asleep while performing regular activities such as talking or driving.  It is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to sleep regardless of how much rest you may have gotten the night before.

Insomnia: Restlessness or an inability to fall asleep.  This can be mild and occasional or severe and reoccurring.

Sleep Apnea:  This is one of the other more worrisome of the sleep disorders.  This disorder’s sleep symptom can be somewhat frightening since it involves a pause or a stop in breathing while asleep.

These are but just a handful of the some of the more widely known sleep disorders; however, there are dozens of others that you may want to learn about.

Causes:

Sleep disorders stem from a variety of causes including physical pain such as back pain, pain from a recent injury, neck pain, and headaches.  Stress and anxiety can also be leading causes of sleep disorders.  Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, the onset of menopause, or menstruation can also be factors that interfere with normal sleep.  The side effects of various medications can lead to sleep disorders as can some medical conditions such as sciatica and endocrine imbalances.  Environmental noise and distractions can also be culprits in stealing your sleep.

Treatments:

Sleep disorders have a variety of treatments from using aromatherapy oils blended to aid sleep, for example by using one of the sleep mists that you can spray your linens with before you go to bed to help you relax.  A variety of herbal remedies using chamomile and other herbs can be effective.  When stress and anxiety are causing the disorder’s sleep symptom, learning relaxation and stress management techniques can often have a great effect on your ability to get much needed sleep.  Some disorders are more severe and may require medication and treatment by a physician.  So if you feel that you are suffering from a sleep disorder and one of the standard remedies do not seem to help, consult your healthcare provider.

1. https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-disorders-problems


2. https://medlineplus.gov/sleepdisorders.html

Sleep Disorders: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Flea Treatments are Killing Our Cats: The Truth About Cat Flea Medications

When you see your cat suffering from a serious case of painful flea bites, you want to ease their discomfort as soon as possible. Running to the nearest store and picking up a topical cat flea treatment seems likes the quickest and easiest solution, but it might just be tossing your cat out of the frying pan and straight into the fire.

The fact of the matter is that the simple, easy-to-buy flea medications lining the shelves of most pet and grocery stores are not as benign as they appear. These pesticides have been linked to thousands of pet deaths and little has been done to make these products safer. The packaging is seemingly harmless. The directions are simple and straightforward. Just squeeze out a few drops onto your cat’s neck and eliminate those pesky fleas. Unfortunately, there’s more to the story.

What the packaging fails to mention is that, in far too many cases, the treatment doesn’t just poison fleas. It could poison your cat, too.

There’s no way around it. When you treat your cat with a topical pesticide, you are exposing them to chemicals formulated to kill. The low doses our cats are exposed to can lead to a variety of complications: damage to the nervous system, skin rashes, sores, and seizures. In 2008, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), received approximately 43,000 reports of pets who were negatively affected by topical flea products. The reports included a number of different brands of products, including various pesticides and ingredients. The same year, it was determined that about 1.4% of those incidents resulted in death.

Reactions to these flea medications vary. Risk factors include allergies, age, pregnancy, and previous drug use. In some cases, the reaction happens when the product is used improperly. In others, the product was used correctly and the reaction occurs anyway. Some cats just experience itching and skin irritation, while a severe reaction could end in death. The symptoms of an adverse reaction vary, but tend to include excess salivation, pupil dilation, muscle tremors, vomiting, shivering, skin irritation, and behavioral changes.

If you’re willing to take the risk and use an over-the-counter flea medication, please take the necessary precautions. Be certain that you are using a flea treatment designed specifically for cats. If you have a multiple cat home, don’t allow the cats around one another for at least a day after being treated. It’s possible that your cats will groom one another. The pesticides in topical flea treatments, if ingested, are very dangerous.

Remember, dosing according to the instructions is not a guarantee that your cat will not have a negative reaction to the poison. Some cats are more sensitive than others, especially kittens and older cats.

In 2008, the EPA received approximately 43,000 reports of pets who had experienced a negative reaction to a topical flea product. The reports included a number of different brands of products, including various pesticides and ingredients.

There is no single pesticide that you can avoid to ensure your cat’s safety. All pesticides could potentially harm your cat.

The large number of reports caused the EPA to review the state of the topical pet insecticide industry. This evaluation concluded that most reporting their cat’s illness or death caused by spot-on flea treatments were using the products incorrectly – treating their cats with a solution made for dogs. Dog flea treatments contain stronger pesticides that cats simply cannot handle, even in miniscule doses. This prompted some reforms. By 2010, they were urging manufacturers to improve labeling and possibly increase testing before releasing these products to the public.

The state of cat flea medication has improved since then thanks to these investigations and packaging reform.

But they didn’t solve the problem. Reports of cats suffering from the side effects of topical flea treatments are still popping up. These reports aren’t only coming from people who can’t read the packaging. They’re also coming from people who used the chemical flea treatments properly. Even if you use them as directed, these treatments for cats are still not 100% safe.

First of all, stay calm! Not all cats react negatively to these medications. In fact, it’s more than likely that your cat will be fine.

Watch your cat closely. If you do notice any effects after the application of a topical flea treatment, immediately wash your cat with a gentle dish soap, like Dawn. Continue to monitor your cat and consider contacting a veterinarian if they start to show symptoms of a serious reaction.

However, if your cat has ingested the flea medication, this will not help. You will need to get your cat to a veterinarian for treatment as soon as possible.

A perfectly natural, easy to use, and effective flea treatment is food-grade diatomaceous earth. This natural powder is comprised of the fossilized shells of ancient sea creatures. When observed under a microscope, diatomaceous earth particles resemble shards of glass. These sharp edges are the secret to diatomaceous earth’s power. The particles penetrate bug skeletons, then cuts up or dehydrates them to death. It is simple, mechanical, and it really works. Plus, if you use food grade diatomaceous earth, it’s completely safe for your cat.

While some people choose to use it topically, it can dry out your cat’s skin when used that way. We recommend sprinkling it in your cat’s favorite areas. Diatomaceous earth does a great job of getting rid of pests in your home before they can get to your cat.

And best of all: unlike OTC flea and tick medication, there’s no chance that it will leave patches of raw skin or cause damage to their nervous system.

The WildernessCatLady is crazy about happy, healthy cats fueled by nature. Start changing your cat’s life today with natural health solutions for adventurous cats at Wildernesscat.com. And while you’re here, go ahead and download our free PDF: 5 Natural Home Remedies for Cats.

Flea Treatments are Killing Our Cats: The Truth About Cat Flea Medications

Ten Natural Cancer Treatments Proven To Fight Cancer

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New Hope For Our Veterans-Natural Effective Treatments Without Drugs

Thank you to all our Veterans. For far too long– gratitude for service, understanding the depth of emotional wounds, and lack of timely, compassionate care for the physical—have plagued our VA system.

It’s time our Veterans become educated and empowered about new and highly effective treatments for wounds both visible, and deeply hidden.

Along with the election, came the legalization of marijuana in several states. Make no mistake—we have a long way to go. This is not “pot smoking” like so many believe it to be. This is Cannabis—one of the oldest, most effective medicinal plants—showing up in government PubMed published studies with the potential to help more than a hundred ailments. New treatments from an old favorite are showing promise for everything from cancer and Alzheimer’s—to depression, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, MS, and pain.
Herbalists and Naturopaths are rejoicing. Even allopathic physicians and caring responsible oncologists can no longer deny the science-based evidence. Why does cannabis work on so many seemingly different ailments? It has to do with the nervous system.
Endocannabinoids are a group of molecules that affect neurons and their specific receptors in the brain. They have been studied extensively and found to play a part in the way the body processes appetite, pain sensation, mood and memory.

Endocannabinoids are part of the ECS (endocannabinoid system) already within us. This system maintains normal cerebral and physiological function. Any type of neurodegenerative disease will be helped by taking in exocannabinoids in the proper form to correct deficiency due to genetic issues or lifestyle choices. Endo are in us but not in the plant–exo are in the plant and when we consume Cannabis (one of the oldest medicinal plants)–we fortify our inner ECS system for good or bad depending upon which cannabis compounds we consume. The terpenes for example, inhibit amyloid plaque (anti-Alzheimer’s). Some are potent hallucinogens. So cannabis can potentiate or diminish, and negatively or positively interact with the human ECS. Responsible scientists are cultivating cannabis for the betterment of mankind—while there will always be those who exploit the plant for personal gain. Patented drugs like Marisol manipulate the natural plant extract components, which then lose the ability to work with the body to restore function. Patented drugs have side effects (in this case possible seizures) that nature does not.

Another one of my favorite innovations from Jorg C. Gerlach of the McGown Inst. For Regenerative Medicine, is the Skin Gun. This allows severe burn patients to use their own skin stem cells to heal in merely days; helps avoid infection, and painful, grafting procedures. Healing the physical wounds in a timely and minimally painful way is important for beginning the process of inner emotional healing.

Companies utilizing 3D printers to make prosthetics that are both realistic looking and fully functioning should be available to all Veterans– along with the physical therapy to fully restore activities of daily living. Integrating back into a meaningful life purpose prevents isolation and depression.

Evox Therapy is another cutting edge treatment for healing the mind. Every physical ailment begins as a perception of an event filtered by the mind. You must address the emotional component to heal the physical. This is not accomplished with drugs. Drugs suppress this process, not heal it. Evox therapy is a perception reframing therapy using the frequency of your voice to release negative energy. Biofeedback allows patients to receive helpful frequencies based upon their targeted vocal recognition to unblock and release toxic stressors and reframe perceptions with healing positive energy. (Links in resources)

There is a privately funded, non-profit healing center in Bluemont, Virginia where natural healing therapies are successfully treating PTSD.  The “Warrior Path” program is 18 months long and teaches people how to leave the past behind and find a new center for personal growth. Natural effective therapies include things like hiking, fishing, culinary skills, bonfires, music, and even a Labyrinth. (Links below)

This Veteran’s Day, let’s honor our heroes by empowering them back from helplessness and despair to health beyond danger —body, mind, and Spirit.

Resources:

Cannabis—one study
http://medical-cannabis-declaration.org/jahan-marcu/

Skin Gun
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/explorer/videos/the-skin-gun/

3D Printers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEx5lmbCKtY

Evox Therapy

https://www.zyto.com/products/evox/

http://www.wholehealthamerica.com/designs/bp.php?idnum=7&zt=user&zn=3

Boulder Crest Retreat

http://www.bouldercrestretreat.org/

http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/healing-ptsd-at-boulder-crest-retreat-/351185178 

New Hope For Our Veterans-Natural Effective Treatments Without Drugs

Some medical treatments are pointless. But will patients want to know? | Fay Schopen

Imagine going to a doctor with a broken foot, say, or a bad back, or in a worst-case scenario, cancer, and being told that doing nothing would be the best course of action? Naught, zero, forget about it, go home – it hardly sounds like heartening advice.

But that could be the case. Senior doctors say that many procedures routinely carried out are in fact pointless. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, which represents 22 colleges, has published a list of 40 tests or treatments that they say have little to no effect on the patient, including x-rays for back pain and plaster casts for some small fractures.

The move is part of a campaign called Choosing Wisely, aimed at helping both medical professionals and patients to make informed decisions. A laudable goal of course, but as truth after sober truth unfurls on the website it feels like being repeatedly told that Father Christmas doesn’t exist. You know in your heart that this information is correct, but you don’t really want to hear it. Sure, you’ll come out the other side wiser and more mature, but also sadder; carrying with you the dull, adult ache of acceptance. The world is somehow a less joyful, more utilitarian place when you know that tap water is just as effective as cleaning cuts and grazes as sterile saline solution, or that hooking yourself up to a drip after an epic bender will not make you feel any better (although it does make for a great Instagram post).

Doing nothing when it comes to our health is not a palatable idea. We live in the age of intervention, when the most important thing in life is to do something, anything, everything – to have control over our own destiny. This way of thinking has spawned a million lifestyle bloggers, thousands of wellness apps, and more photographs of avocado on toast than could ever be necessary.

And there are some extremely serious – and uncomfortable – truths outlined by the academy. Palliative chemotherapy – sometimes used to shrink tumours or eliminate distressing symptoms – may not be the best course of action for terminal cancer patients, for example. Chemotherapy is toxic, and the academy says it may do more harm than good and can raise false hopes.

The truth is that many aspects of life are simply uncontrollable. Ageing, infertility, death and disease – even broken bones – are most often out of our hands. And hearing this news now, post-Brexit, when unemployment, housing and the economy are looking so precarious is an added kick in the teeth. When things are this bad, we want the illusion of control at least.

Who wants to tell a hopeful, expectant and possibly angry patient that ‘nothing’ is the answer?

I speak as someone who last week spent £70 on supplements in my local health food shop, in an almost certainly useless attempt to turn the clock back and coax my ovaries, ravaged by the chemotherapy I had five years ago, into spitting out one or two final, viable eggs. This was after being told by a consultant that I was extremely unlikely to be able to conceive. Did I accept the news stoically and quietly? Did I thank my lucky stars that at least I was alive, and feel grateful? Of course not. I whipped out my phone and began combing message boards and medical journals, downloading papers, buying books and noting down names of supplements I had never heard of. Doing nothing in the face of life’s black humour feels defeatist.

“You can’t put a price on health can you!” I said like a lunatic in the shop, embarrassed to be spending so much on what could be quite possibly be snake oil. Well, yes, you can: £70 in my case. It should also be noted that the consultant did not tell me to do nothing either. Despite the diminishing odds of IVF and my advancing age, there were “options”, she said. I didn’t ask what they were as I have a fair idea (donor eggs; surrogacy; Betty Blue-style madness) and I am not a millionaire. Infertility is a field ripe for doing something rather than nothing. A perfect convergence of the unbearable sadness of longing for a child, coupled with advances in technology and a faint ray of hope. It was a private clinic, and I felt like a walking wallet rather than a patient.

Choosing Wisely, however, addresses things that are more prosaic. It was launched in part to address the fact, revealed in a study carried out last year, that 83% of doctors said they had prescribed or carried out a treatment that they knew to be unnecessary. Well sure – they’re only human. Who wants to tell a hopeful, expectant and possibly angry patient that “nothing” is the answer?

Surely medical professionals have been merrily x-raying backs and putting feet in plaster casts and so on because on some level these things make patients feel good. Sometimes doing something, anything, is a placebo – and perhaps if this was recognised as such, the truth would be more palatable.

Some medical treatments are pointless. But will patients want to know? | Fay Schopen

Natural Treatments for Diabetes

Undeniably, the number of diabetics is increasing dramatically. Scientifically known as diabetes mellitus, diabetes indicates high blood sugar levels. In general, diabetes is divided into 3 main kinds: type 1, type 2 and type 3. Also, diabetes includes another type called gestational diabetes which takes place only in pregnant women. During the time of diabetes, it is easy for patients to feel hungry and thirsty all the time. Also, diabetics may deal with remarkable weight loss and poorer vision without clear reasons.

Nowadays, diabetes remains a dangerous health problem which does not have concrete treatment. Fortunately, people may regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the over growth of diabetes thanks to certain simple ingredients which are always available in their house.

Here are top 10 simple yet effective natural treatments for diabetes.

1. Cinnamon

One of the most outstanding natural treatments for diabetes is cinnamon. Facts have shown that this simple ingredient it especially good for type 2 diabetes thanks to its ability to regulate insulin levels and lower blood sugar levels. You can simply add more cinnamon into your daily diet or drink cinnmon with warm water every day.

You can also read more effect of cinnamon at Home Remedies for Rashes and Home Remedies for Oral Thrush.

2. Bitter Gourd

If you can stand bitter taster of this fruit, you can absolutely make use of bitter gourd as natural treatments for diabetes. This special fruit can do good at improving blood glucose levels in the body system. Thus, it may provide instant relief from discomforts of diabetes.

• Remove seeds from bitter gourd


• Extract its juice


• Add some water into the solution


• Drink a cup of bitter gourd juice each morning

3. Mango Leaves

When it comes to natural treatments for diabetes, many people refer to mango leaves. By regulating blood insulin level, mango leaves will aid in keeping diabetes in check well.

• Dip some mango leaves into water


• Leave it on overnight


• Drink the solution every morning

4. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is famous for hypoglycaemic activities, thus, it may dramatically reduce blood sugar levels as well as neutralize diabetes. Also, fenugreek consumption will contribute to slowing down sugar absorption, which is really beneficial for diabetic patients.

• Soak fenugreek into water


• Leave it on overnight


• Consume it in the next morning


• Repeat the process many times

5. Aloe Vera

Not only can aloe vera serve as a beauty product, it may also improve the condition of diabetes. Specifically, aloe vera may naturally control blood sugar levels. You can drink the mixture of aloe vera gel and turmeric twice a day and see remarkable change in your health.

Also, you can make use of aloe vera as one of the best Home Remedies for Scabies.

6. Okra

For long, people have been familiar with using okra as one of the most effective natural treatments for diabetes. By drinking okra juice, people may balance glucose levels and control the condition of diabetes well.

7. Amla

It seems that no one is unfamiliar with amla. Amla or Indian glooseberry is an abundant source of vitamin C, making it good at improving pancreas function which is beneficial for diabetes treatment.

• Extract amla juice from 2-3 amla and consume the solution every morning


• Alternatively, you can mix amla juice with bitter gourd juice for better outcome

8. Guava

Guava is the fruit of summer. More than this, guava can serve as perfect natural treatment for diabetes. There is only one thing I would like to remind you: don’t overeat guava or else you may go down with some intestinal issues.

9. Curry Leaves

In the battle against diabetes, you can also relyon the help of curry leaves. In particular, the habit of consuming 10 curry leaves each morning will support your blood glucose levels remarkably.

10. Black Plum

Black plum is the perfect combination of anthocyanins and ellagic acid, making it an ideal solution to diabetes. Both of these components, in fact, are really beneficial for controlling blood sugar activities. Furthermore, the fruits and seeds from black plum will considerably lower urine rate. Therefore, let’s include more black plum in your daily diet.

To sum up, diabetes is quite a dangerous health issue which may threaten your life. As a result, it is important ro address this problem right from its beginning. Making use of these simple home remedies and you will surely get satisfactory outcome.

Source:

https://authorityremedies.com/home-remedies-for-diabetes/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/

https://www.nlm.nih.gov/

More by Jenny Heth:

Natural Treatments for Diabetes

Researchers say there are no benefits of testosterone treatments for men

A little more than a year ago, the Food and Drug Administration put the brakes on a massive push by drugmakers to market testosterone treatments to the average middle-aged man. A multimillion-dollar ad campaign had portrayed the drug as having extraordinary power to combat symptoms of ageing. But the FDA had become concerned about the potential for testosterone to increase heart risks.

“The benefits and safety” of testosterone treatments, the agency said in the order that ground the marketing campaign to a halt, “have not been established”.

Now, a group of researchers have announced that they have established the benefits: none.

“The prescription of testosterone supplementation for low-T for cardiovascular health, sexual function, physical function, mood, or cognitive function is without support from randomized clinical trials,” reads a new study, which was published on Wednesday in the open-access journal Plos One.

The study is an analysis of more than 200 others conducted since 1950 which compared testosterone with a placebo. And it is a sharp rebuke to an industry which spent years portraying testosterone as akin to a miracle drug for men feeling the ordinary effects of ageing.

“We don’t need to do further trials,” said Adriane Fugh-Berman, a professor at the Georgetown University Medical Center and one of the study’s authors. Fugh-Berman is also the director of PharmedOut, a Georgetown research group that scrutinizes drugs it suspects are over-diagnosed, often putting it at odds with the pharmaceutical industry, and she briefly acted as an expert witness in testosterone litigation. “The evidence is very clear that testosterone does not help men’s health. And the real risks of testosterone outweigh the illusory benefits.”

The study is likely to deal a further blow to sales for testosterone supplements, which just three years ago topped $ 2bn annually. Driving those sales was a big ad campaign: from 2012 to 2013, the drugmakers AbbVie and Eli Lilly spent more than a quarter-billion dollars extolling testosterone treatments for men with a waning libido or low energy.

Critics saw an effort to put the drug in as many hands as possible with little supporting evidence. A popular test to identify men with “low-testosterone” or “low-T” – which Fugh-Berman at the time criticized as a test “that everyone will fail” – asked men if they found themselves feeling grumpy and becoming tired after dinner. Doctors gave out 2.3 million prescriptions for testosterone in 2013 alone, the FDA found – up 75% from 2010.

But amid the boom, some experts raised concerns that benefits of testosterone were unproven for men experiencing the normal effects of ageing. Moreover, there was evidence that testosterone treatments posed a risk to cardiovascular health.

In late 2014, the FDA’s advisory panel urged the agency to revise testosterone drugs’ labeling. The FDA followed though in March 2015. Eli Lilly and AbbVie had already slashed their ad spending by nearly 40% and seen a 10% drop in sales of the drugs. Now, the FDA had effectively barred them from targeting any more ads at otherwise healthy men who were simply getting old.

But the FDA only regulates the marketing of a drug. Doctors may continue to prescribe testosterone to ageing men off-label if they feel the treatments would be beneficial.

So the researchers – Samantha Huo of Tulane University, Fugh-Berman and a team from Georgetown, and researchers from the University of South Florida, the University of Illinois–Chicago, and toxicology consulting group – set out to determine what the FDA hadn’t: what were the benefits, if any, of regular testosterone supplements?

The researchers deliberately included in their review many low-quality studies that found a benefit from testosterone treatments, Fugh-Berman said. “We wanted to give it the best possible chance of coming out with positive effects, and it didn’t.”

Still, some of the areas where testosterone was found to have no impact were surprising. In bodybuilders, which the study excluded because they take testosterone in very high doses, testosterone is shown to enhance muscle mass and strength. So researchers were puzzled when their findings included no evidence that testosterone increased strength for men diagnosed with “low-T”, even though it increased their muscle mass.

Another surprise came when researchers concluded the drug had no effect on sexual function. “Everybody assumed it was helpful for erectile dysfunction, and we were surprised to find out it just isn’t,” said Fugh-Berman. “There wasn’t good evidence for this.”

The study published on Wednesday did not include the small subset of men whose bodies do not produce any testosterone. In these individuals, who may have been born without or suffered damage to their testicles, testosterone treatment can be necessary to prevent bone loss. The study also excluded trans men, who take testosterone in high doses to help their bodies become more masculine.

So why doesn’t testosterone treatment work?

One big reason may be that there are no agreed-upon parameters for what counts as “normal” and “low” testosterone for different age ranges. While levels tend to wane as men grow older, said Fugh-Berman, “there’s a broad range for ‘normal’ at every age”.

“I think this question is settled,” Fugh-Berman said. “There’s no such thing as the fountain of youth.”

Researchers say there are no benefits of testosterone treatments for men

“Wellnessman” Endorses Natural Treatments for Leg Cramps

Natural News Blog.17- “Wellnessman” Endorses Natural Treatments for Leg Cramps

Leg “cramps” are a common occurrence that happens due to a variety of reasons. “Wellnessman” likes to recommend natural holistic treatments for them due to their safety profile. Here are a few things to know:

The first area that needs to be addressed is foot function. There are two main foot types: “flat” and “rigid”. It is the flatfoot that will cause more potential leg cramp issues. So after getting evaluated by a holistic podiatrist and having your foot type identified, a “customized orthotic” (prescription arch support) can be made to reduce the flattening forces which lead to overuse of the muscles. This can be one of the reasons for a leg cramp later in the day or in the evening.

Not drinking enough water leads to dehydration, which is another condition that can cause a leg cramp. Notice the color of your urine before you flush to determine if this might be a factor. A deep yellow color indicates a lack of adequate water and means that it is time to “drink up”.  To determine how much you need to drink, take your body weight and then divide by two.  This will tell you the amount of ounces you need to consume per day.

Taking a “diuretic” (“water pill”) for high blood pressure commonly causes a loss of potassium which can also lead to a leg cramp. Potassium supplements prescribed by a doctor or a daily banana can address this issue.

Sometimes a cramp is due to low Magnesium levels. The majority of people are deficient in Magnesium.  A good supplement that is easily absorbed is called “Magnesium malate”.  A good starting dose is 400-600 mg at bedtime, although you can increase the dose if necessary. If you start to get a “loose stool”(not likely with the “malate” form), that means the dose needs to be lowered.

Tonic water, minus the gin, can be very helpful as well (add lime/lemon juice for better taste and alkalinity). The active ingredient in it is “quinine” which directly helps to ease muscle cramping.

One overlooked daily routine that can help a leg cramp is Achilles tendon stretching exercises. The Achilles tendon shortens as we age and we can also shorten it by regularly using high-heeled shoes. What you want to do to counteract this is an exercise called a “Wall push-up”:  you stand an arms- length from the wall, place your feet in line with one another and bring your face to the wall without lifting your back heel. Hold this position for about 20 seconds doing both legs 3 to 4 times per day preferably in the evening.

As you can see, there are many different causes of leg cramps. Another possibility is the result of lower back pathology leading to a disc problem or spinal stenosis which can affect the nerves in the legs and feet. Using a heating pad to the lower back in the evening may help prevent a leg cramp coming from this location. Ice can be tried if the heat is not helpful. First place a towel on the skin and apply the ice through the towel. Do not use it for more than 10 minutes without taking it off for a 10 minute recovery period. Lower back issues are quite difficult to treat so do not hesitate to seek professional care if necessary.

“Wellnessman” invites you to climb aboard the “Wellness Wagon” by using natural remedies to treat painful leg cramps. Walk strong… with orthotics.

Sources:

1-Carey, Elea, and Peggy Pletcher. “How to Stop Leg Muscle Cramps.”Healthline. Health On The Net, 7 July 2015. Web. 03 May 2016.

2-Hutchinson, Alex. “Achilles Tendinitis.” Runner’s World. N.p., 13 Feb. 2016. Web. 03 May 2016.

3- Williams, Dr. David. “How to Stop Muscle Cramps Naturally.” Dr. David Williams. N.p., 30 June 2015. Web. 03 May 2016.

“Wellnessman” Endorses Natural Treatments for Leg Cramps

5 Natural Treatments For Hair Loss In Women

Hair loss in women is actually fairly common, but thanks to their long hair, they are generally able to hide any balding patches or thinning of hair by changing their hairstyle. However, women can successfully treat hair loss if they seek care the moment they notice and realize that they are losing hair. In women, usually the first sign of hair loss is when their part line becomes wider or their ponytail begins getting shorter. Much like male-pattern baldness, female-pattern hair loss can also occur.

Fortunately, there is no reason for women to suffer from hair loss in silence, considering that there are multiple natural treatments, such as the five detailed below.

1. Onion Juice

Onion happens to be very rich in sulfur, which can prevent hairs from breaking and promote rapid hair re-growth. Onion juice can also deliver essential nutrients to hair follicles and nourish them. Onions also contain flavonoids that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. As seen in one particular study, it took merely six weeks for a majority of people to experience hair re-growth after the application of onion juice onto their scalp, two times every day. Bottled onion juice is readily available in the market, while it can also be extracted from onions lying in the kitchen. Even the scalp’s blood circulation can be boosted just by massaging onion juice or raw onions onto it.

2. Capsaicin Supplement

Androgenetic alopecia is the scientific name of female-pattern hair loss, which is a genetic problem and a woman may inherit the genetic component from her father or mother. There have been several studies where capsaicin has proven to be effective for humans suffering from alopecia. Capsaicin is basically the compound that gives peppers their hotness. In most of these studies, it took an average of 5 months for definite hair growth to be experienced. Of course, this does not mean women should start eating peppers, rather capsaicin supplements are readily available and a one 6 milligram pill every day seems to be the recommended dose. However, it is better to consult with a health professional before taking such a supplement.

3. Green Tea

Many of the different antioxidants that are present in green tea are capable of promoting hair growth. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen hormone, is responsible for hair loss in both men and women, and green tea contains catechins that are able to block it by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, which helps metabolize steroids like DHT.

Along with promoting hair re-growth, it can also help prevent scalp-related problems like dandruff and dryness. According to a study from 2005, green tea also contains polyphenols that also play a role in the prevention of hair loss [3]. Best of all, there are several ways in which green tea can be used for the prevention of hair loss and promoting hair growth.

For instance, women can rise their hair with freshly brewed green tea and allowed too cool down, right after they have washing their hair. The green tea should be allowed to remain for at least 10 minutes after which it can be rinsed out with cold water. This should be done twice or thrice every week for a few months for best results.

Women can also make their hair healthier and strengthen them by drinking anywhere between 2 and 3 cups of green tea every day.

A solution to prevent hair loss can also be prepared using green tea bags. This solution can be prepared by placing a few green tea bags in hot water for a couple of seconds and then pulling them out. Once the water has cooled down, the bags should be squeezed into it and then two teaspoons should also be added to that water. This mixture should then be massaged into the hair for anywhere between 10 and 15 minutes, after which it can be washed off. This should be repeated every 4 to 7 days for eight to twelve weeks.

4. Coriander

Apparently, not only can coriander (which is also known as cilantro) help prevent baldness in women; it can also be used to prevent grey hair and treatment scalp problems. To treat hair loss, it is best if coriander is applied in the form of a paste, although its juice can also be used. Chop fresh coriander leaves, mix them with water and then add some curd as well to prepare a paste. This green coriander paste should then be applied onto the scalp and be left on for at least 1 hour, after which it can be washed off.

5. Aromatherapy

Although further research needs to be conducted, the results of a study suggest that aromatherapy can prove to be beneficial for women suffering from hair loss [5]. Aromatherapy involves applying essential oils on the skin or inhaling them, whether directly or by spraying them in the air. In the mentioned study, cedarwood, lavender, rosemary and thyme were the essential oils that had been used, while grapeseed and jojoba oils had served as carrier oils. A mixture of these oils was massaged directly onto the scalp, and this apparently not only helped in reversing the hair loss but also help improve the scalp’s skin.

Additional Information on stopping hair loss on the article I wrote on the subject http://hairlossdebate.com/hair-loss-cures/

5 Natural Treatments For Hair Loss In Women

5 Natural Treatments For Hair Loss In Women

Hair loss in women is actually fairly common, but thanks to their long hair, they are generally able to hide any balding patches or thinning of hair by changing their hairstyle. However, women can successfully treat hair loss if they seek care the moment they notice and realize that they are losing hair. In women, usually the first sign of hair loss is when their part line becomes wider or their ponytail begins getting shorter. Much like male-pattern baldness, female-pattern hair loss can also occur.

Fortunately, there is no reason for women to suffer from hair loss in silence, considering that there are multiple natural treatments, such as the five detailed below.

1. Onion Juice

Onion happens to be very rich in sulfur, which can prevent hairs from breaking and promote rapid hair re-growth. Onion juice can also deliver essential nutrients to hair follicles and nourish them. Onions also contain flavonoids that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. As seen in one particular study, it took merely six weeks for a majority of people to experience hair re-growth after the application of onion juice onto their scalp, two times every day. Bottled onion juice is readily available in the market, while it can also be extracted from onions lying in the kitchen. Even the scalp’s blood circulation can be boosted just by massaging onion juice or raw onions onto it.

2. Capsaicin Supplement

Androgenetic alopecia is the scientific name of female-pattern hair loss, which is a genetic problem and a woman may inherit the genetic component from her father or mother. There have been several studies where capsaicin has proven to be effective for humans suffering from alopecia. Capsaicin is basically the compound that gives peppers their hotness. In most of these studies, it took an average of 5 months for definite hair growth to be experienced. Of course, this does not mean women should start eating peppers, rather capsaicin supplements are readily available and a one 6 milligram pill every day seems to be the recommended dose. However, it is better to consult with a health professional before taking such a supplement.

3. Green Tea

Many of the different antioxidants that are present in green tea are capable of promoting hair growth. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen hormone, is responsible for hair loss in both men and women, and green tea contains catechins that are able to block it by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, which helps metabolize steroids like DHT.

Along with promoting hair re-growth, it can also help prevent scalp-related problems like dandruff and dryness. According to a study from 2005, green tea also contains polyphenols that also play a role in the prevention of hair loss [3]. Best of all, there are several ways in which green tea can be used for the prevention of hair loss and promoting hair growth.

For instance, women can rise their hair with freshly brewed green tea and allowed too cool down, right after they have washing their hair. The green tea should be allowed to remain for at least 10 minutes after which it can be rinsed out with cold water. This should be done twice or thrice every week for a few months for best results.

Women can also make their hair healthier and strengthen them by drinking anywhere between 2 and 3 cups of green tea every day.

A solution to prevent hair loss can also be prepared using green tea bags. This solution can be prepared by placing a few green tea bags in hot water for a couple of seconds and then pulling them out. Once the water has cooled down, the bags should be squeezed into it and then two teaspoons should also be added to that water. This mixture should then be massaged into the hair for anywhere between 10 and 15 minutes, after which it can be washed off. This should be repeated every 4 to 7 days for eight to twelve weeks.

4. Coriander

Apparently, not only can coriander (which is also known as cilantro) help prevent baldness in women; it can also be used to prevent grey hair and treatment scalp problems. To treat hair loss, it is best if coriander is applied in the form of a paste, although its juice can also be used. Chop fresh coriander leaves, mix them with water and then add some curd as well to prepare a paste. This green coriander paste should then be applied onto the scalp and be left on for at least 1 hour, after which it can be washed off.

5. Aromatherapy

Although further research needs to be conducted, the results of a study suggest that aromatherapy can prove to be beneficial for women suffering from hair loss [5]. Aromatherapy involves applying essential oils on the skin or inhaling them, whether directly or by spraying them in the air. In the mentioned study, cedarwood, lavender, rosemary and thyme were the essential oils that had been used, while grapeseed and jojoba oils had served as carrier oils. A mixture of these oils was massaged directly onto the scalp, and this apparently not only helped in reversing the hair loss but also help improve the scalp’s skin.

Additional Information on stopping hair loss on the article I wrote on the subject http://hairlossdebate.com/hair-loss-cures/

5 Natural Treatments For Hair Loss In Women

9 DIY Natural Deep-Conditioning Treatments for Healthy Hair

Getting smooth and shiny hair is no big deal nowadays owing to a number of products that are readily available on the market. But then, they are all laced with chemicals, which do more damage to the tresses than good! Add to this the frequent heat and chemical treatments (like bleaching or dying hair) that your hair is subjected to and you’ll know for sure that the health of your hair is going for a toss. The only way out of this “catastrophe” is to stop using products full of chemicals and say no to excessive styling. Since this is not possible to implement for everyone, the other alternative is to work upon restoring the health of your hair through some deep-conditioning treatments.

Let us take a look at some of the natural deep conditioning treatments that you can try making at home and restoring the health of your hair.

1. Hot Oil Massage – The benefit of hot oil massages is an open secret. They make the hair soft and increase blood circulation on the scalp. You can choose any oil for hot oil massage and also add a few drops of essential oils. For instance, you can mix coconut oil or olive oil with any essential oil such as – tea tree, lavender or rosemary. Head the mix till it reaches a thick and creamy consistency. Apply this mix to your hair and make it a point to massage the scalp followed by combing your hair with a wide tooth comb. This will evenly distribute the oil. Put on a shower cap after this and let it be for 30 minutes-1 hour. Rinse it off with a mild shampoo. Follow this regimen for once or twice a week for best results.

1. Banana Olive Oil Honey Mask – Did you know that something as simple as banana can be great for your hair? While ripe, mashed banana in itself is the best mask for your hair, you can mix it with olive oil and honey as a deep-conditioning mask for damaged hair. To make this mask, mix banana, olive oil and a few drops of honey. Blend them together to form a smooth paste. Apply the paste on your scalp and the length of your hair to make it smooth and supple.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar – Vinegar is known for its cleansing property. Apple Cider Vinegar in particular, is immensely useful for clarifying and smoothening hair and restoring its shine. All you need to do is combine a tablespoonful of vinegar and mix it with half cup of water. Use this mix to rinse your hair every time you shower for wonderful results.

1. Shea Butter and Avocado Mask – Shea butter has hydrating properties and is said to be a natural cure for split ends. Mix shea butter with avocado for a nutrients-loaded hair mask that helps you get rid of split ends and soft hair. As an alternative, you can also mix shea butter in any oil and create a deep-conditioning mask for your hair to nourish it. This mask is also useful for increasing your hair’s volume and thickness.

1. Egg mask – Whisk an egg with a few drops of lemon juice to create a hair protein mask that deeply nourishes your hair. If you have oily hair, skip using the egg yolk and if you have normal-dry scalp, then make sure that you use the egg yolk along with the egg-white. Additionally, you can increase the number of eggs, depending upon how thick and long your hair is. You can also add a few drops of olive oil or almond oil in the mix and create a different type of mask. Cover your hair with a shower cap post-application and leave it for about half an hour. Rinse it off using a mild shampoo. As a result of this mask, you’ll get smooth, shiny and soft hair.

1. Yoghurt mask – Yoghurt has everything that your hair needs viz. proteins, vitamins and anti-oxidants. And on top of everything, it also has moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties. It is an excellent remedy for temporary dandruff relief and controlling greasy hair. Combine it with lemon juice for an effective dandruff cure mask. Rinse it off with a mild shampoo. Know all about dandruff here.

1. Aspirin – Aspirin isn’t really used in hair masks, but as a standalone product for cleansing the hair. Also, you don’t have to put much of an effort in using it as all you need to do is crush an aspirin and mix it with your shampoo. The salicylic content in aspirin will cleanse your scalp and help you get rid of all the excess oil and product buildup. It also helps restore the shine in your hair. Follow this regimen every alternate week to get visible results.

1. Baking Soda – Just like aspirin, baking soda is also an excellent cleanser for your hair. However, beauty experts don’t recommend using it on recently colored/dyed hair as it may strip the hair of artificial colors and dyes.

1. Aloe Vera mask – Aloe vera has both anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which is an excellent remedy for curing itchy scalp. You can use aloe vera gel extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera plant or get readymade gel available in stores for this purpose. Take a generous amount of aloe vera gel on your palm and gently apply it on damp hair. Make sure that you cover all your hair from the roots to the tips. Let it set in and then rinse it off using a mild shampoo. This will act as an amazing conditioner and give you smooth hair texture.

To Conclude

These are some of the easiest natural deep-conditioning treatments that you can make at home. Apart from making your hair feel great, these treatments are also easy on the pockets! So, make is a habit to go for the treatment at least once or twice a week and restore the health of your hair. Have any other natural hair masks that needs to be on this list? Let us know!

9 DIY Natural Deep-Conditioning Treatments for Healthy Hair

Four natural treatments that can prevent or treat skin cancer

Each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer. (1) With summer rounding down, many people have spent substantial hours basking in the warmth of the sunshine.  Many people have slathered on sunscreen, been exposed to chlorine, or just endured the elements of the summer heat.

There are more new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. than the combined incidence of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer

There are many health benefits associated with ultraviolet-B radiation and vitamin D.  There are approximately 100 conditions linked to low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations.  Obtaining sun exposure is necessary for our health but over exposure can be threatening.  A healthy diet and supplementation can help protect the skin and body from cancer. (2)

Sun exposure is necessary for our health but over exposure can cause health risks

If you have spent hours in the sun this summer and are looking to fight the effects on the skin, consider the following treatments.

Four natural treatments to prevent or treat skin cancer

1. Black Raspberry Seed Oil:  Black raspberries are rich in antioxidants and contain anticancer properties.  This oil not only helps kill cancer due to it’s immune boosting properties, but it targets the tumor, making it a safe and effect treatment. (3)


2. Eggplant Extract:  A cream with 10 percent olasodine rhamnosyl glycosides (BEC) has been shown to be effect in treating keratosis, basal cell carcinomas, and squamous cell carcinomas.


3. Myrrh oil:  Myrrh has been used throughout history to treat a wide variety of illnesses. (3) Two studies found that myrrh causes the death of cancer cells.  One study found that it is effective against prostate, breast and skin cancer cells! (3)


4. Frankincense oil:  Several major studies and been published demonstrating frankincense oil’s ability to kill breast, bladder, and skin tumors.  (3)

Consider utilizing these oils and extracts topically as well as adding them to your diet.  A diet high in berries, eggplants, peppers, and tomatoes can help provide the body the nutrients it needs to fight skin cancer.  If you desire to utilize essential oils internally, consider buying from a reputable source and speak with a specialist about dosage and oral consumption.

Sources included:

(1) http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts

(2) http://www.naturalnews.com/042902_skin_cancer_nutritional_therapies_Nicholas_Gonzalez.html

(3) https://draxe.com/top-5-skin-cancer-symptoms-natural-treatments/

Four natural treatments that can prevent or treat skin cancer

BPH (Enlarged Prostate) Causes, Symptoms And Treatments

The Facts 
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) occurs when the prostate, which is ordinarily around the same size as a walnut and weighs about 30 to 50 grams, expands to twice or even three times its regular size.
As the name indicates, BPH is not indicative of serious diseases like cancer or other malignancies, though it can cause some discomforts as will be explained below.
Hyperplasia is the technical term for the nature of the growth itself, which in the case of BPH is caused either by an increased number of cells growing within the prostate, or by a reduction in the number of prostate cells that are dying off.
Another, similar condition is Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, which shares common facets with BPH, but differs in that the hypertrophic growth is caused by the increased size of the cells themselves rather than a growth in their actual number.

How is BPH Caused? 
There is no concrete evidence for any one cause of BPH, but medical sources are agreed that the condition is most likely linked to aging and the impact that the production of testosterone has on older men. Some studies have indicated that the body’s system for working off testosterone slows in middle age and the body’s reaction is to use this extra testosterone for the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is associated with prostate growth when it is present in large amounts. Family history and ethnicity should also be taken into account, with men of European ancestry at slightly increased risk of developing the condition, particularly those from southern Europe.
Still other studies have drawn a connection between BPH and lifestyle factors like high cholesterol, excessive weight, poor diet, and immoderate alcohol consumption.
Those with conditions such as diabetes, a lowered immune system, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and atherosclerosis should also practice caution and remain vigilant for the development of BPH symptoms.

Symptoms to Watch Out For 
The symptoms of BPH are varied and can occur in a range of varieties and combinations. Unfortunately each case of BPH is different and the symptoms can encompass levels from very mild to severe depending on the patient.
Most commonly, BPH will manifest itself with problems during and after urination. This is due to the enlarged prostate pressing down on the urinary tract and inhibiting the urine flow. Patients report needing to urinate more frequently, as well as a feeling that the bladder was not completely emptied on completion. Other symptoms include dribbling, and a decrease in the flow and weakening of the urine stream. Patients may also have to use more effort to begin urinating and then “push” with more force than was previously necessary. In some instances, blood will also appear in the urine, caused by the rupturing of blood vessels and small veins in the bladder as the patient strains.
In more severe cases, complications like urinary tract infections (UTI’s), bladder infections, and bladder stones may develop due to the bladder obstructions caused by BPH.
There is some evidence for a link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and BPH, although the consensus among medical professionals in this area is far from united on the topic. Studies have shown that some treatments for BPH could actually cause erectile dysfunction in the prescribed patient, and there are also some recorded cases where an ED medication has actually aided in reducing BPH.

Testing and Diagnosis 
On presentation of symptoms, doctors will perform a thorough physical examination, in addition to consulting the patient of their medical and familial history. The patient’s lifestyle will also be taken into account with issues like mobility and diet being given particular precedence. The physical exam will most likely include a digital rectal examination, the simplest and most effective procedure for detecting abnormalities like BPH in the prostate, as well as in the early detection of prostate cancer.
Doctors will often order a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test to ascertain the level of antigens in the bloodstream, a higher rate of which results from growth in the size of the prostate, though the origin of these increased PSA’s is not always Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
Other tests that the doctor might order or carry out in surgery are the “long and strong” test, a precise analysis of the strength and flow of the urine stream; a filling cystometry, a measurement of the time it takes to fill the bladder; and an ultrasound or other imaging test. A cystoscopy, the visual inspection of the prostate through a thin lighted tube inserted into the urethra of the penis, is also used, though less often.
It should be noted that the symptoms of BPH, especially in its early stages, are very often so mild that the condition goes undetected until found during routine physical examinations – a further motivating factor in arranging regular medical check-ups, particularly for men over the age of 35.

Treatments 
Medication – Alpha blockers are often prescribed for men who are undergoing a large amount of discomfort due to BPH. Essentially, these blockers help ease the urine flow by relaxing the bladder and the muscles of the prostate. Unfortunately, the side effects of these drugs can include headaches, nasal congestion, fatigue, and dizziness, and cases of retrograde ejaculation (where semen goes back into the bladder rather than through the urethra) have also been reported. A lowered libido and even erectile dysfunction have also been noted after patients after patients began a course of alpha blockers, though they are reasonably rare.

5-Alpha-Reductbase Inhibitors are another possibility, as they act to reduce the amount of DHT produced and so will, over the course of 5 or 6 months, reduce the size of the prostate by anywhere up to one fifth (20%). Unlike the alpha blockers, they will address the cause of discomfort over this period, but they will not reduce BPH symptoms in the short term. They are also known to reduce libido and sexual performance in some cases.

Surgery – Non-invasive surgeries such as a transurethral balloon dilation or a transurethral needle ablation have been shown to be very effective in the treatment of BPH, as has transurethral microwave thermotherapy. There is also a variety of laser treatments available.
More invasive procedures are the transurethral resection or incision of the prostate, or the transurethral vaporization of the prostate. In some cases the insertion of a stent may be necessary, or more rarely, the removal of the prostate itself.

Natural Prevention 
It is therefore certainly best to try, in so far as possible, to prevent the onset of BPH by avoiding the less healthy lifestyle choices. Ketogenic / Paleo diet and a moderate amount of aerobic exercise (like walking and resistance training) will dramatically reduce the chances of developing BPH, along with improving quality of life overall.
Increasing intake of Ketogenic / Paleo friendly foods that are low in carbs, high in protein and healthy oily fats are great for the prostate and the body as a whole, and the knock on effect is that they elevate mood and the production of disease-fighting enzymes throughout the body. These could range from leafy greens like spinach, to avocados, macadamia nuts, and even grass-fed meats like beef, lamb, and venison. Reducing alcohol consumption and increasing the amount of prostate friendly green tea taken will also limit the chances of developing BPH, as will drinking more water through the day, but limiting intake close to bedtime.

A natural approach to prevention is always a more viable and safer alternative to pharmaceutical drugs  or invasive procedures with harmful side effects. So if you suffer from BPH symptoms or would like to prevent them, you deserve to know about the harmful side effects of drugs like Flomax. Click Here to claim YOUR free eBook: The 5 Side Effects of Flomax  

I Wish You Good Health,

Ben

References

Ong, Ben. All About The Prostate. USA: bensprostate.com, 2016. Print.

“7 Non-Cancerous Reasons Your PSA Levels May Be High”. EverydayHealth.com. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 July 2016.

“Alpha-Blockers. Prostate Enlargement Drugs, Side Effects. | Patient”. Patient. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 July 2016.

Kevin C. Zorn, FACS. “What Causes PSA Elevation In The Blood? – What Is Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test? Results & Score”. MedicineNet. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 July 2016.

“Symptoms Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)”. Healthline. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 July 2016.

BPH (Enlarged Prostate) Causes, Symptoms And Treatments

Anger after NHS warns PrEP HIV drug could put other treatments at risk

A warning from NHS England that it cannot confirm funding for drugs to treat rare conditions including cystic fibrosis in children if it is to pay for an HIV prevention pill has been criticised by Aids campaigners.

The high court ruled on Wednesday that NHS England can fund pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that cuts the risk of HIV infection by almost 90% and is aimed particularly at men who have unprotected sex with multiple male partners.

NHS chiefs immediately said they would appeal against the decision and warned that if the health service is to be responsible for providing the HIV therapy, at a cost of £10m-£20m a year, it may not fund other treatments.

As well as a cystic fibrosis drug for children, eight other treatments would be under threat of having funding cut, according to the NHS, including stem cell transplants for a rare blood cancer and a prosthetic knee for amputees.

Related: Users of HIV prevention PrEP urge NHS to fund ‘life-changing’ medicine

Drugs for rare conditions are categorised by price and effectiveness, from level one to five. The NHS statement said: “Given the ruling, NHS England cannot confirm funding for those treatments and services in levels three and four.” It did not name specific conditions.

Deborah Gold, the chief executive of the National Aids Trust (NAT), told the Times the statement was “deeply unhelpful”.

She said: “NHS England press releases now appear to be pitting PrEP against other treatments. Had NHS England not unlawfully pulled PrEP from its decision-making process in March, all prioritised new policies and drugs would now already be funded.”

Other treatments at risk of losing funding include a drug to prevent low sodium levels in the blood of chemotherapy patients, a childhood narcolepsy treatment and brain implants for children with hearing problems.

The NAT brought the high court case following anger and consternation among campaigners after NHS England said it would not fund PrEP because it did not have the power to do so. It argued that it was the role of local authorities, which have been given control of public health measures including reducing smoking and family planning as well as HIV prevention. Local authorities said they did not have the money to pay.

Mr Justice Green in the high court said NHS England had erred and that both it and the local authorities were able to fund the drugs if they so chose.

“No one doubts that preventative medicine makes powerful sense,” he said in his judgment. “But one governmental body says it has no power to provide the service and the local authorities say that they have no money.

“The clamant [the National Aids Trust] is caught between the two and the potential victims of this disagreement are those who will contract HIV/Aids but who would not were the preventative policy to be fully implemented.”

Gold said it was “enormously disappointing” that NHS England had decided to appeal against the ruling.

Anger after NHS warns PrEP HIV drug could put other treatments at risk