Technorati Tags: Herbal Healing Sage

In severe, special cases of depression associated with extreme mental disorder, synthetic, chemical based drugs called antidepressants are required and necessary for relief of depression. However, most of us do not fall into this category and too often these synthetic antidepressants are prescribed for us who suffer from common daily disappointments in our lives. For most common experiences of depression, antidepressants are not often necessary. Synthetic Antidepressants have been known to have some harmful side effects, prompting the FDA to recommend that manufacturers add this warning label to their products: “Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in short-term studies in children and adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of {insert established name} or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Patients who are started on therapy should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidalty, or unusual changes in behavior”.

This is not to suggest that ignoring the feelings of depression will make the feelings go away. Since depression can have physical biochemical origin and depression from emotional stress can cause biochemical change in the body, it would follow that common, not severe, depression would respond to clinically proven all natural remedies as vitamins, herbs, supplements, minerals, amino acids, aromatherapy, and all natural formulas designed to relieve the pain of depression. Other treatments e.g. psychotherapy, exercise, acupuncture, yoga, meditation also aid in the natural relief of depression.

Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can trigger depression as well as depression decreasing the availability of vitamins and minerals essential for the maintaining our body’s health. These vitamins and minerals include vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium and trace minerals. Supplementing our bodies with these vitamins and minerals can relieve and perhaps prevent depression as well as greatly improving our health generally.

Adding amino acids to our diets can go a long way in relieving depression and promoting general health. For example, SAMe (S-Adensoyl-L-Methionine) is an amino acid that can be found in all cells of our body. It is a natural antidepressant that has additional value of protecting the liver and cardiovascular system, synthesis of natural melatonin that assists sleeping well. Phenylalanine is another amino acid that makes the neurotransmitter, i.e. substance that conducts messages to and within the brain, norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is diminished in the brains of people who are depressed. The amino acid L-Theanine naturally reduces anxiety associated with depression and is not addictive or habit forming. Another amino acid that naturally relieves depression and stimulates alertness is L-Tyrosine.

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophane) is a naturally occurs in our bodies and helps the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Adequate amounts of serotonin is vital for a feeling and sense of emotional well being. 5-HTP can cross the blood brain barrier which makes it unique in the facilitation of serotonin. 5-HTP has gained a great reputation in the natural treatment of insomnia, depression and obesity.

For many people who suffer common depression, a effectively created herbal formula is very beneficial for the natural relief of depression. St. John’s wort (hypericum perforaturn), commonly referred to as “Nature’s Prozac”, helps naturally relieve mild or moderate depression, stress, anxiety, and tension. Gingo biloba is used as an alternative treatment for moderate depression in elderly people because depression is an early sign of cognitive decline or cerebrovascular deficiency. Valerian root has a natural calming effect for anxiety and depression. Passionflower is an efficient natural sedative for calming and sleeping well. Black Cohosh, used by early Native Americans, soothes the body and reduces spasm. These are just a few of the examples of herbs and herbal formula that treat moderate depression effectively and naturally.

Hormonal imbalance can lead to moderate depression. A common treatment is natural progesterone for women. Other natural substances help balance hormones e.g. flax oil, black cohosh, dimpro, promensil, essential fatty acids, red clover, virtex berry and many other naturally derived supplements.

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils and other natural aromatic compounds from plants to effect emotional and physical health The oils are referred to as “essential” because they are the “essence” of the plant. Olfactory sense has a powerful effect on our emotional and physical health. Aromatherapy can be used to alter mood, inspire confidence, ease moderate depression, and increase energetic feeling. In some nations essential oils are used for their antiseptic qualities to treat infection. In France, many aromatherapy essential oils are perceived in a similar way as prescription drugs are in the United States. Aromatherapy comes in many forms, e.g. essential oil, mists, sticks, candles, infusions, massage creams and oils, mineral bath formulas, and absolutes.

One on the most popular aromatherapy aromas is lavender. Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves and helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. Its refreshing aroma removes nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity. Lavender essential oil induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia. Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago.

In summary, many of us suffer mild to moderate depression for a variety of reasons. Our experience of depression is not so severe or of long duration to justify the use of powerful synthetic prescription drugs or antidepressant drugs with their potential of hazardous, harmful physical and behavioral side effects. We have available to us, a vast variety of effective, efficient, all natural vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, aromatherapy, hormonal balancers, and other safe natural modalities for relieving mild to moderate depression.

About The Author

Jennifer Kays has over twenty years experience with all natural health care products. She provides the highest quality all natural health care products through http://www.sweetmedicineessentials.com

Technorati Tags: Calming Herbs

But you can’t solve some problems just with training techniques. If you are at your wits end, and have tried all of those self-help books with no successful conclusion to the problem, there are herbal remedies. If you’re pet is anxious, hyperactive or nervous there are different herbs for different applications to a problem or sometimes a combination of several herbs that will help.

Aggressive Behaviour:

This type of behaviour in cats or dogs is often embarrassing for the pet owner in that, when you are with people or other animals and your pet goes berserk. A dog or cat or bird that chews off its skin is not in a healthy mental state, and is being driven mad by allergies, flea allergies, or nervous disorders. I once visited a friend whose cockatoo had chewed off all its feathers, because it was left alone too much and got depressed. Pets get distraught if left alone too long and rightly so as they are used to being with the pack. One solution is a daily visit from a pet sitter who can pop in to visit your pet while your working. When you come home, try increasing your pet’s amount of exercise by taking them for a walk as soon as you come home. It can increase their appetite, and often perks them back to life again as they were miserable without you. If you have a pet sitter who can walk or spend time with the pet during working hours it breaks up the day for your pet. Also it allows for bathroom breaks which prevent mess ups. Another problem is an abused pet that does not know how to behave, which takes patience and time to heal. Pets that have been abused are going to be nervous, and may stress out easily in social situations.

An herb that promotes calmness in humans as well as pets is from the flowers of the camomile plant. As a child my mother gave me camomile tea at night to help me sleep. Bella donna is a homeopathic remedy that helps overly sensitive animals and reduces unwanted behavioural problems. Traumatic situations such as a trip to the vet, thunderstorms a change of owners, or moving are somewhat difficult for pets to get through on their own.

The herb Passiflora Incarnata which have been studied for their properties, by medical analysis that it contains flavonoids which are responsible for its calming effect and anti-anxiety properties. Flavonoids are also powerful anti-oxidants that are anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, and antiviral. It is an herb from the tropics used for hundreds of years often called a “ natural tranquilizer”.

Tissue salts like Kalium Phosphate is a biochemic which helps in releasing emotional tension in pets that are normally nervous much of the time and pets that are high strung or have tension.

Coat and Skin Odors and Problems:

These are common problems, and result in skin abscesses, allergic dermatitis, dandruff, warts and hair loss. Did you know that puppies have acne also? These are a result of toxic overload and with the skin and coat often are caused by bacterial and fungal infections. Some pets develop an allergy to fleas and insect bites. If a pet has a kidney or thyroid problem there are herbs to help these conditions, including dry skin and the itching from eczema.

There are herbs to help the grown of fur and the underlying follicles for a healthier coat and shine, which is very important for any dog or cat, especially show dogs.

Pet Asthma

Asthma in pets is painful to watch happening with the symptoms of coughing wheezing and distress in just normal breathing. An herb called Skullcap has been used by herbalists for centuries to treat coughing, bronchitis and whooping cough. Homeopathic remedies such as kali.mur soothe the inflammation and fortifies blood and nerve tissues which are stressed out. Phosphorus is also a remedy for pneumonia, deep coughs, asthma, and the associated stress or anxiety of not being able to breathe properly.

Constipation:

Has your dog ever been constipated, not being able to move things out?

Another painful thing to watch your dog go through. A natural remedy for this is as used by humans Psyllium Husks, and aloe. As we now know that our pets eat plants when they are sick, like grass it stands to reason they know what is good for them and so we should also know more about natural remedies for our pet’s good health.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are usually found in cats, and symptoms are difficulty in urinating, obvious pain, constantly licking, cloudy or bloody urine or fever. Usually antibiotics are prescribed which relieve the symptoms rather quickly.

However, antibiotics tend to have a general weakening effect on the immune system. If your cat or dog has a re-occurring UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) it may indicate a weakened immune system, so building that immune system up will certainly help avoid further infections.

Whatever the ailment, check into herbs with your local naturopathic pet doctor, and veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and further treatment options available with herbal remedies.

Teri Salvador operates a blog all about dog health and issues, with up to the minute news on dogs, health, products, food, and supplies. She gives away a surprise free gift to her new subscribers, there is an up coming contest. For more information click on: http://www.DogHealth1.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Teri_Salvador

Author: Teri Salvador

Technorati Tags: Calming Herbs For Agressive Dogs

Herbal Benefits

Herbs benefits the body by healing it or by activating our body’s healing ability. Here are some tips and examples of herbs benefits that you can start to use today.

Herbal benefits are something that we all should be using today. In this time of higher prices it is reassuring to know that herbs can be used to bring about better health. Matter of fact herb benefits is so great that we can use them to heal the majority of health issues. It doesn’t matter if the health issue is small or large, with a little bit of learning you can start to use them today to cure your illnesses. OH, I didn’t mention this yet, BUT the biggest benefit to using herbs is that they cost considerably less(often times free) than any man made drug. On top of which they have no side effects, unlike man made drugs, which are extremely hard for the Liver to process.

Let’s start our discussion about herbs benefits with one of the most popular herbs, Echinacea. For a while now Echinacea has been considered a mainstream herb. We all know that it is used to strengthen our immune system. One misconception about Echinacea’s immune system boosting qualities is that it only works at the on set of a cold. This is so far from the truth. Why would you stop taking Echinacea when your body is right in the middle of fighting an infection. Your immune system is what fights off infections so it only make since to strengthen your immune system the whole time it is fighting. By taking Echinacea throughout a cold you PREVENT the progression of the infection. Echinacea can also be used externally to help heal cuts or wounds, especially where infection is present.

So right away we see that herbs benefits our good for our body’s immune system. But there are so many more benefits of herbs. Let’s now look at the benefits to our Digestive system.

The digestive system is just one long tube that runs from one end of our body to the other. With openings on both ends, stuff goes in one end and comes out the other. It is extremely important that we keep the organs of the digestive system healthy. They our exposed to the good and BAD things we put into our body. They work in close relationship to the other systems in our body, like the nervous system, immune system and cardiovascular system. This means when our digestive system is doing poorly it will bring down the function of other systems. This can lead to major health issues. Here are just a few disorders of the digestive system: Indigestion, Infection, Ulcers, Gallstones, and Diabetes Mellitus.

The purpose of using herbs benefits is to soothe, stimulate, condition, and nurture the organs of the digestive system so that they can operate at their best at all times. More herbs help improve the digestive system than any other system in our body. Many of the herbs are directly related to digestion itself, take for example Cascara Sagrada or Buckthorn. They are both great natural laxatives that will allow you to have a gentle bowel movement without gripping. It takes about 6-8 hours but if you rush the process you will feel cramps and discomfort. Don’t overdose just to speed up the process. Remember you are using NATURAL healing, so let the process happen naturally.

The other herb benefits for the digestive system are used for specific effects on digestion and the organs of the digestive system. For example taking the herb Milk Thistle is great for treating gall stones, liver problems, gallbladder, spleen, as a remedy for jaundice, varicose veins…etc. The list could go on, but let me quickly talk about why Milk Thistle seed extract is so great for the liver.

First of all Milk Thistle extract protects the liver against toxicity. If you like to consume a lot of alcohol I would recommend taking Milk Thistle to help heal your liver from the toxins of alcohol. Milk Thistle also strengthens and stabilizes cell membranes, good for strengthening the structure of the liver, which is another good reason to take Milk Thistle if you like to drink a lot of alcohol. You don’t want to get cirrhosis of the liver.

Milk Thistle extract also interferes with enterohepatic circulation. You might be asking, what does that mean? Well, toxins are always being cycled back in forth between the gastrointestinal tract and the liver, this means that your liver is always being exposed to the toxins with each pass. When taken Milk Thistle concentrates in the liver and semi-interrupts the enterohepatic circuit by interrupting the primary absorption of toxins and by preventing their reabsorbtion. Cells not yet poisoned are protected from damage from circulating toxins, and act as centers for the generation of new liver cells. If you take Milk Thistle long enough, you can completely restore your liver…it is like getting a brand new liver…pretty cool uh? The reason why you can restore your liver to new is because Milk Thistle also stimulates protein synthesis. Basically it accelerates the regeneration of destroyed liver tissue.

Look I could go on and on about herbs benefits, giving examples along the way, but then this would be a book you are reading and not just an article. The main point I want to stress about herbs benefit is that they are in most cases free to use(just go outside and pick them or you can buy them from a store or internet if you don’t want to go looking for them), they are cheaper and safer then buying man made drugs, and they have no side effects. Herbs benefits are something that we as a society should look much more closely at since prices are only going up. This way no one has to worry about not being able to afford health care. Thanks for reading and I hope this has been helpful.

If you are interested in using herbs to heal yourself I would like to make a recommendation. www.thegreenbookofhealth.com is a wonderful book that has all the herbs you need (plus many other forms of natural healing) to cure over 60 common illnesses. . Each day for seven days you will receive a new lesson. Each lesson is emailed to you and will teach you and give tips on using herbs and other natural healing techniques.

By Eric Clemmer Published: 5/2/2008

Technorati Tags: Herbal Healing Centers

“Among the most exciting applications of herbal medicine lie in treating abnormalities of the immune system. Clinical studies have shown that various herbal products are effective in treating allergies, asthma, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Herbal medicine also has a unique potential usefulness in balancing the immune system in cases of chronic infection, preventing the immune system from turning on the body and causing destruction.”

~Phyllis A. Balch, CNC Prescription for Herbal Healing

A healthy, properly functioning immune system is absolutely vital to good health. It is the key to the healing process from the tiniest scratch – to the most complex virus. Even the aging process is intimately linked with the immune system.

Compromised immunity leaves us vulnerable to disease and impairs our ability to heal properly and age well.

SIGNS OF IMPAIRED IMMUNE FUNCTION

CANDIDIASIS/ YEAST INFECTIONS

RECURRING INFECTIONS

CHRONIC FATIGUE

LISTLESSNESS

CHRONIC DIARRHEA

SLOW WOUND HEALING

ALLERGIES

INFLAMMATION

People who have more than 2 or 3 colds or infectious illnesses per year are likely suffering from weakened immunity

WHAT IS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM?

The immune system is a complex system of interactions involving many organs and glands as well as substances such as bone marrow, white blood cells, lymphatic vessels and serum factors in our blood. Our immunity dependson all these components functioning together.

HOW DOES OUR IMMUNITY BECOME IMPAIRED?

Unfortunately, modern life is full of things that tend to depress our immune systems.

PESTICIDES

CHEMICHALS IN HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS

FOOD ADDITIVES

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS

OVERUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS

POOR LIVING HABITS

STRESS

IMPROPER NUTRITION

CHEMOTHERAPY

Also many disorders have been linked to improper immune function including thyroid deficiency, diabetes, rheumatic heart disease, reheumatoid arthritis, lupus and pernicious anemia.

For optimal immune function we need to address any disorders that may be inhibiting immune function. We also need to take steps to avoid exposure to toxins such as pesticides and chemicals we use around the house. Try wearing gloves when cleaning to avoid skin exposure and avoid inhaling fumes from things like bleach, oven cleaners, and the like. Make sure dishes and glassware are thouroughly rinsed of any residue from dishwashing liquids etc. Even though they’re more expensive, consider buying nontoxic cleansers. Take steps to ensure that the soaps and shampoos you use are made from the most natural ingredients possible. (Aubrey Organics is a good option.) It’s also important to get plenty of fresh air and to drink the purest water available.

HERBS THAT BENEFIT THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

ASTRAGALUS – A powerful antioxidant which protects the liver from toxins, boosts the immune system and generates anticancer cells in the body.

ECHINACEA – Enhances lymphatic function and boosts immune system.

GINKGO BILOBA – A powerful antioxidant which increases circulation to brain cells.

GOLDENSEAL – An antibacterial which strengthens the immune system and cleanses the blood. (Don’t take internally for more than a week at a time or if pregnant.)

ST. JOHN’S WORT- A blood purifier useful in cases of Epstein – Barr virus and HIV.

OLIVE LEAF – Effective against numerous viruses, bacteria and fungi. It has been used in the treatment of people with viral illnesses such as Epstein-Barr disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Herpes and AIDS.

SPIRULINA – Aids in protecting the immune system and cleansing toxins from the body. Though technically a nutrient, not an herb, spirulina is a naturally digestible food that helps protect the immune system and aids in mineral absorption. It helps balance blood sugar levels and supplies nutrients that help the body cleanse and heal.

Other herbs that enhance the immune response are

BAYBERRY,FENUGREEK , HAWTHORN, HOREHOUND and RED CLOVER .

~Herbal Formulas~

Herbs often work best when used in combination with other herbs. There are contraindications for certain herbs if you have an auto-immune disorder. Consult a good herbal book or work with an herbalist to create a blend appropriate for your needs.

~ CLEANSE THE LIVER ~

The liver is our primary detoxifying organ and must be functioning optimally for proper immunity.

Herbs which are useful in cleansing the liver include BLACK RADISH, DANDELION, and MILK THISTLE.

~Other Steps to Improved Immunity~

Proper Nutrition

In addition to using herbs to strengthen and balance the immune system it is important to supply the body with adequate nutrients.

Vitamin A Vital to the body’s defense system – known as the infection-fighting vitamin.

Vitamin C Probably the most important vitamin to the immune system. It has a direct effect on bacteria and viruses and is needed for forming adrenal hormones and lymphocytes.

Vitamin E Works synergystically with vitamins A & C as well the mineral selenium as a scavenger of toxic free-radicals.

Zinc Promotes healing of wounds and boosts immune response.

Germanium A trace element which benefits the immune system.

Get sufficient sleep.

Don’t Smoke

Excercise Regularly

Reduce Stress and Anxiety.

Stress triggers changes in biochemistry that suppress white blood cell activity and taxes the endocrine system in ways that ultimately result in lowered defense against infection and an impaired capacity for healing. Stress also depletes the body of nutrients. Addressing chronic stress is a very important element of bringing the immune system into balance.

About The Author

Cori Young is an herbalist living in the Pacific Northwest. For more information on healing with herbs, visit her website, Herbal Remedies Info (http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com)

cori@herbalremediesinfo.com

Healing Herbs – How To Heal Yourself Naturally

For thousands years our ancestors used plants to cure many health problems. Here are a few ways in which you too can get better health, memory and appearance with the help of healing herbs.

Most Asian countries are famous for their use of medicinal heeling herbs. Favorable warm climate is one explanation as well as the culture, where it is traditional to use herbs to fight diseases when even modern drugs don’t work. But these days people in many countries other than Asia use healing herbs as safe and natural way to healthy life.

People use herbs in many different ways to improve their ways of life for example, diet herbal supplement, or as body creams and lotions with medicinal herbs.

Healing herbs vs. conventional drugs

Explanation of healing herbs popularity is simple, people use natural medicinal herbs instead of the drugs you can buy in chemist shops because herbs don’t create you any additional health problems, there are no side effects.

How effective is herbal medicine? It usually gives the same result as most chemical drugs; however, it will not work as fast as strong conventional drugs. For the reason that natural healing herbs stimulate your immune system to fight the disease and that takes time. Healing herbs are only beneficial if taken regularly and exactly as prescribed. And to make sure the cure works, don’t stop taking it when you feel better, finish the treatment for lasting result.

Using healing herbs for your benefit

People who have serious health problems, like high blood pressure, heart conditions and even cancer try natural herbal treatments in hope that it will work. As already mentioned, the side effects of herbal medicine are minimal, but you still need to administer the right ingredients. For herbal medicine to work best it should be taken at the right dosage and at the right time of day. Morning is usually a good time. To find the best herbs for your problem, you should not rely on advertisement, but talk to a doctor about any herbs you want to use.

Don’t just assume that all medicinal herbs are good for you

Many people tend to self-medicate, but you really shouldn’t, because natural herbs not always agree with other medication you take. Most doctors agree, you won’t receive many benefits when you are not careful of what herbal medication you take and how.

Most commonly known healing herbs are:

• Aloe Vera
• Garlic
• Chamomile
• St John’s wort
• Tea tree

You need doctor’s advice

Find a doctor who is knowledgeable about herbal medicine, not all modern physicians approve of using herbs for healing, so not all of them can give you an advice about healing herbs. He or she will get all the necessary information to find the right herbal treatment for you. Then the doctor will suggest what herbal medicine should be used to fight your condition.

There are so many different herbs that can be used for medicinal purposes.

Herbs for arthritis, depression, high blood pressure, menopause and other conditions. Herbs for weight loss are also very popular. So all you really need to do collect info about what herbs can do for your health.

Tanya Turner is an owner of Medicinal Herbs Guide where you can find reliable information about different types of medicinal herbs to cure a variety of diseases.

The first thing that I learned is that acid reflux, sometimes called gerd (gastro esophageal reflux disease), is not a disease at all. Contrary to what the medical community would have us believe, it is simply a condition, brought on by poor eating habits. Besides eating the wrong foods, not chewing food properly is probably the root cause of this ailment.

The Acid reflux condition would not exist without a damaged esophagus and a weakened LES (lower esophageal sphincter). If the condition is to be eliminated, healing the esophagus must be the first order of business.

During this reflux recovery period, eating anything which could irritate or damage the esophagus, must be avoided. Things like poorly chewed chips, crackers, cereal or any hard foods with sharp edges are culinary culprits – they cause little lacerations to develop in the esophagus. Until the lacerations have had a chance to heal, spicy foods, such as acidic tomato products, hot peppers, raw garlic and raw onions should also be eliminated from the diet. They just further irritate the condition. Smoking and drinking alcohol relax the LES, allowing stomach acid to splash up into the esophagus, thus impeding the healing process.

The key to acid reflux recovery is to eat only mild, easy to digest food until the esophagus has healed. Eat early, giving yourself at least three hours of sitting or walking time before lying down. Eat slowly and chew your food completely. Last, but not least, try to eat in a relaxed, pleasant and stress free environment.

I have listed a few of my favorite recipes that I enjoyed during my own recovery period. They can be made quickly and easily. Try doubling these recipes so that you can reheat them later in the week… less time in the kitchen. Remember that cooking from scratch, instead of relying on convenience foods, is a better approach to good health, in general. It’s also nice to know what you’re really eating.

For breakfast, I believe that fresh fruit is the best way to go. I especially like melon and papaya. For lunch I eat more fruit like apples, bananas and, perhaps some almonds, or walnuts. It’s better to eat many little healthy meals during the day. I try to buy only organic fruits, however, sometimes when I am rushed, I purchase “ready to go” containers of mixed fruit at the grocery store. Try to stay away from pineapple, as I find it hard to digest.

How about starters in the evening? Serving vegetables raw is the ultimate healthy way to present them.

Try creating a beautiful platter of crudité (crew di tay) better known as elegant rabbit food. Serve it with a savory tofu dip. Use cauliflower, broccoli, English cucumbers, radishes, green & yellow zucchinis, Belgium endive, carrot sticks, whole small mushrooms, or whatever appeals to you. Cut the vegetables in bite size pieces for dipping. The Belgium endive is a natural edible scoop for dipping. Just cut off the ends and peel off the leaves.

Make the tofu dip by putting one package of soft or silken tofu in a food processor or blender, adding garlic powder, cumin, paprika and chopped chives or parsley for flavor and color. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Add a little fresh squeezed lemon juice if the mixture is too thick. Process until smooth and creamy. If you are in a rush, ready made dips and raw vegetable platters are available in the produce sections of most supermarkets, but make a concerted effort to eat only organic, if possible.

I hope that you enjoy the following dishes. Even though I have cured myself of acid reflux, I still serve these recipes on a regular basis. I prefer food slightly under cooked. Feel free to adjust the cooking times and seasonings according to your own taste.

Bon appetite!

Sautéed White Fish On A Bed Of Mashed Potatoes

This recipe is for one serving. Increase the ingredients for additional servings as needed.

* One 4oz filet of white fish (orange roughly, sole, turbot, flounder, etc) * One med. Potato * Steamed green vegetable such as broccoli, spinach, peas or asparagus * Parsley or chives for garnish * 1/4 tbsp unsalted butter, olive oil or Pam

We will start with the potatoes because they take the longest to cook and they tend to retain their heat the longest. (The fish and vegetable take only minutes to cook.)

Peel and cube potato. Place in cold water to cover. Bring to the boil, and then simmer until fork tender. Drain, leaving just enough cooking liquid for mashing or whipping. You may also use the vegetable broth (recipe below) instead. Add salt to taste. Hold in a warm place.

Season fish with salt and pepper to taste. Place non-stick sauté pan over med high heat. Add butter, oil or spray with Pam. When not quite smoking, add fish. Cook two minutes, turn and cook other side for two minutes, or until the filet is light brown and cooked through. If the filet is very thin, one minute on each side may be enough. (You can broil or bake the fish if desired)

Serve fish on top of mashed potatoes, surrounded by the steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

Vegetable Broth

This broth is very alkaline and rich in minerals. It can be served as a simple soup, or used as a stock (as above) for cooking. Cook and save the potatoes and beets to use as a vegetable side dish or to add to soup.

* 2 cups red skinned potato peelings * 3 cups celery stalk * 2 cups celery tops * 2 cups beet tops * 1 small zucchini or yellow squash * 2 cups carrots * One small onion * Sprig of parsley * 2-1/2 quarts distilled water

Chop all vegetables into very fine pieces. Place in water and bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Strain & refrigerate for future use.

Note: By cooking pearled barley in the finished broth with the addition of chopped vegetables, one can prepare a healthy soup for a first course.

Pasta Primavera

Primavera means “spring” in Italian. This pasta dish offers a great opportunity to use all the wonderful fresh spring vegetables at your disposal. However, you can make this dish anytime of the year by using whatever fresh vegetables you can find at your food market. I have chosen a mixture of vegetables that I happen to love, for this recipe. You can use these or replace them with your favorites. During the reflux healing period, try to stay away from tomatoes, raw onions and raw garlic. I have included garlic in this recipe (*see note regarding roasted garlic). If you can tolerate a little garlic, then make sure to cook it well at a low temperature, without browning it. If you want to be a bit daring, you can add the optional cup of heavy cream. You may substitute parsley for the basil and the penne regatta for fettuccini, or another pasta. The whole family can enjoy this classic pasta dish.

* 1 cup sliced mushrooms * 1 cup sliced carrots * 1 cup baby peas * 1 cup sliced asparagus spears * 1 cup snow peas or sugar snaps * 2 cloves garlic finely chopped or roasted * 1 lb. penne regatta * 1 tsp. salt * 3 tbsp extra virgin, first cold pressed olive oil * 1/2 cup shredded basil * 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese * 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Place a steamer basket in a pot with a small amount of water and bring to the boil. Place vegetables in basket, cover and steam until tender (about 4 minutes). Rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking and preserve the color, and drain.

To a large pot of boiling water, add salt and the penne regatta. Cook uncovered according to the instructions on box, preferably al dente.

Meanwhile in a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook at a low flame for a couple of minutes (do not brown). Add the steamed vegetables and optional heavy cream and raise the heat to medium. Cook just enough to heat.

Drain the pasta and add to the sauté pan and mix well.

Sprinkle with Parmigianino Reggiano, and shredded basil. Heat the dish thoroughly and serve. If the dish needs more salt, use extra cheese instead, at the table. Serve this dish with a heart of romaine salad with lemon chive dressing (recipe below)

NOTE: It takes more than two cloves of roasted garlic, for this recipe. On a sheet of aluminum foil place two heads of garlic and cut the stem end off with a knife. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and wrap tightly. Bake in a 400 degree oven for one hour. When cool enough to handle, squeeze out the roasted garlic, into a bowl, discarding the shells. Mash well with a fork.

Another use for roasted garlic is my version of pesto sauce. I use walnuts instead of pine nuts, which I find indigestible, with the roasted garlic and basil. Use whatever proportion you like and drizzle first pressed, extra virgin olive oil into the blender. If your sauce is too thin, adjust with more walnuts, basil and garlic. If it is too thick, use more olive oil. This is all a matter of taste. Serve with your favorite pasta. I prefer linguini or fettuccini.

Lemon Chive Salad Dressing

This is a simple, yet classic vinaigrette for green salads. Use heart of Romaine, Boston or Bipp lettuce. Make this dressing and hour or so before serving, in order that the chive flavor is fully incorporated. Remember to toss well before serving. The advantage here is using lemon juice, instead of vinegar. I find that lemon juice becomes alkaline after being ingested.

* 1 lemon juiced * Sea salt (pinch) * 3 tbsp. extra fine sugar * 6 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil * 6 tbsp. minced chives (you can’t have too many) * Freshly ground black pepper

Combine lemon juice, salt and sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Continue whisking in the olive oil, chives and several grinds of pepper. Keep whisking until dressing is emulsified.

NOTE: You can make this dressing for two by reducing the lemon juice to two tbsp. and the other ingredients by 1/3.

Keep left over dressing in a jar in fridge for future use. It will keep for about a week.

Savory Lentils With Texmati Brown Rice

* 1 lb of organic lentils (2 1/2 cups), rinsed * 8 cups water or stock * 1 onion, chopped * 3 cloves of garlic, chopped * 2 carrots, sliced * 2 stalks celery, chopped * 1 bay leaf * 2 sprigs of thyme, or 1/2 tsp dried * Organic Texmati brown rice (follow instructions on package)

To a large pot bring water and lentils to a boil. Add other ingredients. Reduce to the simmer, partially covered. Cook until tender (about 20 to 30 minutes), stirring occasionally and adding more liquid as needed.. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve over organic Texmati brown rice. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with a light green salad, dressed with the lemon chive dressing above.

Baked Chicken Breasts on Mushroom Caps With Steamed Broccoli And New Potatoes

* 6 chicken breasts (either bone in or halves with skin on) * 1 tsp dried thyme * Olive oil * 6 large Portobello mushrooms (or enough smaller mushrooms to cover the bottom of the baking pan) * 1 tbsp minced garlic * Salt & pepper to taste * 2 cups dry white wine or dry vermouth * 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

Place rack in center of oven and preheat to 400 degrees.

Into a lightly oiled baking pan, large enough to hold chicken breasts, arrange mushrooms gill side down. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt & pepper. Pour wine over mushrooms. Place chicken breasts skin side up over mushrooms and brush with olive oil.

Bake uncovered about 20 minutes, until the breasts are golden brown. If the wine has evaporated during the cooking process, add a little more (for those of you who can’t tolerate alcohol, keep in mind that it burns off during the cooking process, leaving only the flavor).

Baste the breasts with the pan juices and turn over. Cook until breasts are completely done and springy to the finger, about 15 minutes more.

With a slotted spoon, place the chicken and mushrooms on a platter, mushrooms on the bottom and breasts on top, skin side up. Skim off excess fat and spoon juices over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley.

Serve with steamed broccoli and boiled new potatoes. (Substitute brown rice for potatoes, if desired)

Stir Fried Shrimp And Vegetables Served Over Millet, Brown Rice Or Quinoa

* 3 tbsp Canola oil * 1 lb. raw medium peeled shrimp * 2 cups broccoli florets * 2 cups sliced mushrooms * 4 scallions, trimmed and chopped * 2 tbsp Garlic, minced * 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced * 1 cup cold vegetable broth (see recipe above), mixed with 2tbsps, cornstarch * 1 package of organic millet

Into a hot wok or sauté pan pour oil until just smoking.

Add vegetables and stir constantly to cook al dente.

Add shrimp and continue to stir until just turning pink.

Add broth and cover for a couple of minutes until shrimp is almost done.

Uncover and add cornstarch mixture, stir until thickened and turn off heat.

Serve over millet cooked according to package instructions.

Season to taste with tamari light soy sauce.

NOTE: This dish must be done very quickly, as you don’t want to over cook the shrimp or the vegetables. I have chosen Millet because it is an extremely alkaline grain. It is neutral in taste and will absorb the flavors of this dish. You may substitute brown rice instead.

Bon Appetite!

About The Author

Charles Stewart Richey resides in Pike County, PA. Mr. Richey is a self-educated expert on how to cure acid reflux disease, by natural means and has written an extensive report entitled, “REFLUX GONE FOREVER, Natural Acid Reflux Remedies”. He explains how the proper application of herbs, health store items, meditation, diet and exercise can heal acid reflux, gerd and heartburn, without the use of drugs. For information on how to heal acid reflux the natural way, go to: http://www.refluxgoneforever.com

Information of Allergy | Home Herbal Migraine Remedies

Stress and emotional constraint: Relieve Constraint herbal formula. 2. Sinus congestion and sinus headaches: Relieve Constraint herbal formula, and possibly a sinus infection home remedy. 3. Indigestion and dysbiosis: Relieve Constraint … Nutritional Supplement Home Migraine Remedy Options: Here are some nutrients suggested to be very important in the Balch's Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing: Calcium and Magnesium: 2000 mg daily Ca, 1000 mg daily Mg CoQ10: 60 mg …

Cinnamon Herbal Remedy – Healing Properties Of Cinnamon – Health …

Cinnamon tea or infusion is widely recommended for lowering high fever and helps get rid of catarrhal congestion. Cinnamon contains a volatile oil that is derived from the bark or the leaves of the plant and aids in digestion. It is also widely used in cosmetic applications for … Herbal Treatment of Sinusitis. The inflamed lining of the paranasal sinus is called sinusitis. When throat and nose lining excessively secretes mucus, the tendency is that the person will …

MY BLOG KNOWLEDGE: Herbal sinus

Ancient healing traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believe that in order to treat any condition, the body as a whole should be analyzed. Any 'imbalances' can be corrected by using herbs and/or acupuncture. … Vitamin C supplementation (10
193
00 mg three times per day) reduced histamine levels in people with either high histamine levels or low blood levels of vitamin C. Histamine is associated with increased nasal and sinus congestion …

Hope you enjoy the read as much as I did and please if you have something to say, use the comments form below to let everyone know your thoughts.

Have a great day!

Herbs during Pregnancy: Pregnancy Safe Herbs

Pregnancy is a very important stage in a woman’s life and use of herbs during this stage is a very controversial subject. All herbs are not safe during pregnancy, but there are some which are beneficial. Let us find out the safe herbs.

Many people believe in the medicinal properties of herbs. For them herbs are natural, cheaper and better than conventional medicines, but consumption of herbs during pregnancy is not recommended by some doctors. They are skeptical of the risks involved in the intake of herbs, as there is not enough evidence to prove the efficacy of herbs. While some herbs are known to cause negative effects on mother-to-be and the growing fetus, intake of some other herbs during pregnancy is considered to be useful.

Herbs are natural products but being natural does not mean that they are safe to consume during pregnancy. A herb, which worked wonders for your health before pregnancy may be detrimental during pregnancy for you and the fetus. While some herbs may be effective in some women, they may cause negative results in others. Hence it is very much important to consult your doctor before taking herbs during pregnancy. Only a few herbs are considered to be safe during pregnancy and so it is very important to select the right ones. Here is a list of some herbs which are said to be useful during pregnancy.

• Most herbalists vouch for the benefits of consuming red raspberry leaf during pregnancy. This herb has been used in North America and Europe for hundreds of years and is considered as the most beneficial for pregnant women. It is rich in calcium, magnesium and iron. It is believed that this can act as a uterine tonic and strengthens the uterine muscles. Red raspberry leaf can also prevent nausea, miscarriage, infections and excessive bleeding during delivery. It can ease labor pains and is found to be useful in the production of milk for lactation. Usually, it is consumed in the form of tea.
• Chamomile can be taken in moderation during pregnancy. This herb is said to have a calming effect on the nerves and can prevent inflammation. It is also used to prevent morning sickness and digestive disorders.
• Alfalfa is believed to be a rich source of enzymes, vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial during pregnancy. It is also a good source of vitamins A, D and E and is rich in vitamin K, which is necessary for clotting of the blood.
• Nettle leaf is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is useful for pregnant women who are suffering from extreme fatigue due to deficiency of iron. Nettle leaf is also good for the production of milk.
• Ginger root is another herb useful in relieving morning sickness and problems related to digestion. It is also said to be beneficial in treating sore throats, congestion and cold during pregnancy.
• Dandelion leaves and roots have a good amount of vitamins and minerals. It acts as a diuretic and is good for the health of the liver. It can help in digestion and lessen fatigue too.
• Oats is helpful in curtailing anxiety and restlessness. It is also good for the skin and has high levels of magnesium and calcium.
• Peppermint leaf is also good for controlling morning sickness, digestive problems and flatulence.

These herbs should be consumed in moderate amounts and according to the instructions of your health care provider. As there is no standard law regarding herbs, the quality may vary with manufacturers. First go through the label for any warnings relating to its use by pregnant women. Even though the above mentioned herbs are said to be safe during pregnancy, it is still necessary to consult your doctor before consumption.