Natural Healing Therapies Today – Part I
Posted by on Apr 12, 2010
Natural Healing Schools in the United States and Canada are growing quickly as the demand for alternative and complementary medicines is on the rise. Some of the many reasons why natural healing therapies and techniques are as widely accepted as they are are due in part to reported negative drug affects and interactions. Unlike conventional medicine, natural healing therapies are typically non-invasive and usually have minimal or no adverse side effects.
For example, natural healing techniques like massage therapy, offer a wealth of physical and emotional relaxation, and are known for its ability to improve circulation, enhance immune system functioning, and reduce stress – through natural and safe methods. As most individuals know, stress is one of the biggest risk factors in dis-ease; and with the added regimen of a natural healing therapy like massage, one can naturally realize the benefits.
Another great natural healing discipline is Chinese herbal medicine. Often offered as part of a greater Acupuncture and Oriental medicine curriculum, Chinese herbal medicine is based on TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and is widely used in the East as the main form of treatment, and is growing in recognition here in North America. Natural health medicines like this entail a broad range of botanical treatments, including plant and plant extracts, tinctures, essential oil extracts, herbs, spices, aromatherapy, and nutrients and supplements (including nutritional/dietary counseling). The principle behind Chinese herbal medicine is to restore balance of the yin and yang; therefore restoring balance to the mind, spirit and body.
Other natural healing medicines like homeopathy (“like cures like”) are commonly found as over-the-counter drugs at retail outlets and pharmacies. However, there is also a number of healing arts schools that provide training in homeopathy, as well as part of a larger naturopathic school program.
An innovative natural healing tool used by chiropractors today is the cold laser. The tool, resembling a cross between a microphone and a flashlight produces low-level laser light that is directly applied to the body parts affected by rheumatoid arthritis, and other chronic pain conditions. As a non-invasive treatment, this natural healing technique is known to help in reducing painful, enflamed joints.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding natural healing therapies, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore natural healing programs near you.
Natural Healing Therapies Today – Part I
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Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Natural Healing, Natural Health Schools, and other Healing Arts.
Natural Health Therapies and Cancer ? Part Three
Posted by on Mar 23, 2010
This article is the third installment of a series on Natural Health Therapies and Cancer. The material presented is meant to inform you of complementary cancer therapies that are available in the medical community. These therapies are to be used in cooperation with other cancer treatment methods. They are not meant to be done in place of your physician’s care. In the previous articles, we have covered the basics of cancer, the causes, the various types and stages, and how nutrition can trigger and promote cancer growth. This article will focus on Anti-Cancer Herbal Supplements as a form of cancer therapy.
Herbal therapy is also known as Phytotherapy or Phytomedicine. As you may recall from previous articles, the word ‘phyto’ means ‘plant.’ This form of cancer therapy focuses on herbal or botanical supplements have been used for centuries in dealing with a wide range of diseases. Many of these plants have been studied by pharmaceutical companies to isolate active ingredients for use in drugs. A few key examples are foxglove (used for digitalis), rauwolfia (used in reserpine), and opium poppy (used in morphine).
The anti-cancer herbal supplements that we will discuss in this article are listed below in alphabetical order. Due to the number of herbals involved, we will only be able to cover each one briefly. However, this does give us a starting point to follow-up at the library for more in-depth information. Remember that ‘herbal’ does not equal ‘safe.’ Although herbal therapies usually work more slowly than pharmaceuticals, adverse reactions can occur if the wrong dosage, a poor quality herb, or the incorrect herb is used. In addition, there are potential interactions with prescription drugs. Always check with a medical professional before using any complementary therapies.
The effects of these various herbs on cancer have been researched and documented by a large number of studies worldwide. The results indicate that the herbs work by:
• Stimulating DNA repair
• Producing antioxidant effects
• Promoting protective enzymes
• Inhibiting cancer-activating enzymes
• Inducing oygenating effects
The anti-cancer herbal and botanical supplements currently being used by a variety of medical practitioners are:
Algae
Chlorella, Sea vegetables, and Green Drinks provide high levels of antioxidants that help to clean up the damage done by free radicals. The albumin, vitamins, and minerals contained in chlorella are considered a major detoxification resource.
Aloe Vera
Long used for burns, cuts, and minor skin irritations, tests indicate that this plant has tumor-fighting capability. A major component of aloe vera called Acemannan has displayed remarkable ability as an immune system stimulator.
Amygdalin
Known also as Laetrile, this substance is found in the pits of apricots and other fruits. It has been used for centuries and produces a cyanide compound that targets cancer cells.
Astralagus
This herb is widely used in China, often in conjunction with ginseng. Research shows that it increase Natural Killer (NK) cell activity, reduces the stress hormone cortisol, and boost interferon levels.
Cat’s Claw
Used in Peruvian tribal medicine, this herb displays antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties. Studies have indicated that it enhances the immune system as well as digestive system.
Echinacea
This well-known herb has shown properties that enhance the immune system. Test results indicate an increase in NK cell activity ranging from 90-221%. Echinacea provides support to battle secondary problems like infection.
Essiac
This is an herbal tea originally used by Native Americans. It contains burdock, sheep sorrel, Indian rhubarb, slippery elm, and other herbs. It has been shown to boost immune system function, diminish inflammatory processes, and reduce the toxic side effects of many drugs.
Flavonoids
A group of phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. These substances have very high antioxidant levels. This group contains quercetin, rutin, citrin, hesperidin, proanthocyanins, and anthocyanins.
Garlic
Enough scientific evidence exists for this longtime folk remedy that scientists held the First World Congress on the Health Significance of Garlic and Garlic Constituents in the late 1980s. Research points out garlic’s ability to suppress cancer initiation and growth by boosting NK cell and T-cell activity. Garlic also blocks cancer cell adhesion to blood vessels which helps prevent metastases.
Gingko Biloba
This herb has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine. One of its components, gingkolide B, interferes with a chemical in the body that promotes tumor growth. Gingko also has a high antioxidant level.
Ginseng
Used for centuries in Asia, this small woodland plant has been documented to have immune system enhancing properties. It stimulates macrophage and NK cell activity as well as boosting the production of antibodies.
Grape seed extract
Pycogenols, the active ingredients in grape seed extract and pine tree bark, might be the most powerful antioxidants found to date. Studies show that they are 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E and 20 times more powerful than Vitamin C in reducing free radical damage.
Green tea
A popular drink in Japan and China, green tea has been shown to reduce the risks of throat and liver cancers. This is attributed to the high antioxidant properties found in green tea, far exceeding those of Vitamin E. The average daily consumption of green tea in Asia is 2-10 cups.
Haelan 851
This is a liquid soybean concentrate made with a specialized fermentation process. The preparation contains zinc, selenium, Vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, C, D, E, and K. It also contains high levels of genistein, an isoflavone shown to increase cancer cell death, inhibit blood vessel growth to tumors, regulate hormonal imbalance, and provide other anti-cancer functions.
HANSI
A homeopathic combination of about 10 herbal components, HANSI has been shown to increase NK cell activity in the immune system. The primary ingredients in the formula are from rain forest and desert plants such as cactus, aloe, arnica, licopodium, and lachesis. Made in Argentina, this formula is available in the U.S. on a three month supply basis.
Hoxsey’s herbs
This is an herbal preparation that contains red clover, burdock root, buckthorn, barberry bark, stillingia root, chaparral, licorice, cascara amarga, and prickly ash bark. Used since the 1840s, these herbs produce documented antioxidant, anti-tumor, and anti-estrogen activity. They also have been shown to boost immune function and inhibit blood vessel growth to tumors.
Iscador (Mistletoe)
Used by European physicians since 1920, Iscador has been found to increase the length and quality of life, stabilize the cancer, cause tumor reduction, and improve the overall condition of the patient. Immune system function, particularly NK cells, increases within 24 hours after Iscador treatments.
Larch arabinogalactan
This is a complex carbohydrate compound derived from the Western Larch tree. Studies have shown that it enhances the activity of NK cells, macrophages, and immune-enhancing chemicals called cytokines.
Maitake mushroom
Maitake, shitake, and reishi mushrooms have all been shown to promote NK cell and antibody activity. Maitake mushrooms consistently show the greatest results in inhibiting cancer development and metastasis.
Pau D’Arco
An herbal extract derived from the inside of the bark of certain trees in the South American rainforest that has displayed anticancer properties. The key component, lapachol, has a unique molecular composition that produces biological activity against cancer.
Pectin, modified citrus
This is a food fiber found in fruits which has been modified to bring out the immune system enhancement properties. Research show that modified citrus pectin boosts the function of both T-cells and NK cells in the immune system.
Silymarin
Known also as milk thistle, this herb is full of antioxidants and flavonoids. It has been seen to provide protection from liver damage. Studies indicate that Silymarin accelerates the regeneration of damaged liver tissue. This is important in cancer patients because all toxins including chemotherapy drugs are filtered through the liver and excessive toxins can result in liver dysfunction.
Turmeric
A major ingredient in curry powder, this herb comes from India and is a member of the ginger family. Studies show that it provides powerful antioxidant effects, inhibits tumor growth and formation in certain cancers, and reduces production of some cancer-promoting enzymes.
In the next article, we will explore the use of Physical Support Therapies for cancer therapy. These methods include Detoxification, Biological Dentistry, Water Therapy, Heat Therapy, Bodywork/Therapeutic Massage/Exercise, and Qi Gong. I hope that this material has been helpful and informative. The material in these articles is a portion of an e-book available on my website.
Jerry Ryan, Ph.D. is a Natural Health Coach who teaches individuals and group classes on the scientifically documented benefits of natural health techniques. He is also an internationally published author and has been a guest speaker at such places as NIKE World Headquarters. For more information, his website is http://www.JerryRyanPhD.com
Natural Health Therapies and Cancer ? Part Four
Posted by admin on Mar 20, 2010
This article is the fourth installment of a series on Natural Health Therapies and Cancer. The material presented is meant to inform you of complementary cancer therapies that are available in the medical community. These therapies are to be used in cooperation with other cancer treatment methods. They are not meant to be done in place of your physician’s care. In the previous articles, we have discussed the fundamentals of cancer, reviewed a list of causes, explored the various types and stages of cancer, examined the role that nutrition can play in cancer growth, and looked at the use of herbal supplements as a form of cancer therapy. This segment will discuss various Physical Support Therapies and their benefits for individuals with cancer. The specific physical therapies will include Detoxification, Biological Dentistry, Water Therapy, Heat Therapy, Bodywork (which covers such areas as Therapeutic Massage and Exercise) and the ancient Chinese practice of Qi Gong.
Detoxification
I know that I have talked about the practice of detoxification in articles on diet, fasting, and cleansing your digestive system. In the society we live in, we are constantly bombarded by pollutants that directly affect our body. Right now, most drinking water contains over 700 chemicals; over 10,000 chemicals are used in food processing and storage; and over 3000 chemicals are added to the food supply. We directly ingest all of these toxins and they can remain in our body for years. The only way to cleanse the system is through a detoxification process.
There are several different systems to detoxify the body; the length of time for the various systems lasts from one week to several months. A thorough detoxification will address clearing all areas through which the body releases toxins — the intestines, the bladder, the lungs, and the skin. In addition, each system will have a special program of nutrition to help rebuild the body’s healing system.
In order to do a proper detoxification, you should consult with your physician regarding dietary changes, reduction of stress load, massage and skin brushing (stimulates nervous system and lymphatic system), herbal supplements, and nutrients such as antioxidants and probiotics to boost your immune system function.
Biological Dentistry
The practice of Biological Dentistry involves removing dental toxins such as mercury-based dental fillings and root canals that can harbor unidentified infections. This practice has been developing since the 1940s, and focuses on using nontoxic dental restoration material instead of mercury dental amalgams.
Practitioners believe that the mercury leeches out from dental fillings and travels into the body tissues. This process weakens the immune system, providing an opportunity for cancer growth. They also believe that root canals can contain hidden infections, which can directly contribute to the development of cancer.
The removal of amalgam fillings must be followed by any detoxification of the body in order to eliminate any residual mercury that may still be in the body tissues. This is a dietary process similar to the one described above and lasts roughly three months.
Water Therapy
The technique of Water Therapy or Hydrotherapy uses water, ice, steam, as well as water at hot and cold temperatures to assist the body in removing toxins. Techniques included steam baths, hot and cold compresses, sitz baths, colonic irrigations, and full-body immersions.
Water Therapy is used for detoxification as well as for the relief of stress and pain. This is achieved by increasing the blood circulation and heightening the immune response to the application of water techniques at various temperatures.
Heat Therapy
Hyperthermia or Heat Therapy is beneficial to individuals battling cancer because cancer cells are vulnerable to high temperatures. Methods of raising the temperatures include saunas, hot packs, steam baths, or wrapping oneself in hot blankets. Common medical approaches include ultrasound, shortwave or microwave diathermy, radiant heating, and extracorporeal heating.
Ultrasound increases the body temperature by the frictions of the sound waves as they pass through the various body tissues. Diathermy causes the body temperature to rise by electromagnetic energy delivered at certain radio frequencies. Radiant heat is the application of infrared heat to areas of the body. Extracorporeal heating is the practice of removing the blood, heating it outside of the body, and returning it to the body at a higher temperature.
Hyperthermia has been shown in studies to change the structure of cell membranes. It makes tumor cells, easier to attack with radiation or chemotherapy, while protecting the normal cells.
Bodywork
The term Bodywork refers to a wide range of practices such as Therapeutic Massage and Exercise. These techniques provide physical relaxation, stimulation of the circulatory system, reduction of pain, stimulation of the lymph system, and enhancement of the body’s immune system.
Massage helps to relax muscle tension as well as speeding the removal of toxins from the system. Prolonged muscle contractions contribute to pain and interfere with the elimination of chemical wastes in the muscles.
Exercise helps with digestion, weight control, detoxification, and immune system function. Yoga, low-impact aerobics, calisthenics, stretching and flexing exercises are all good ways to strengthen the body’s healing system. The benefits of exercise for people with cancer are as follows:
· Increased blood supply to cells — cancer cells cannot survive in an oxygen rich environment.
· Lymph system stimulation — muscular contractions help the lymph system remove toxins more rapidly.
· Increased immune system function — exercise increases the activity of the body’s Natural Killer cells.
· Increased body temperature — exercise elevates the body temperature to a level that is destructive to cancer cells.
Qi Gong
Qi Gong (pronounce chee-GUNG) is a therapy of slow movements used to develop deep relaxation, enhanced oxygen supply, increased lymph circulation, and to reduce symptoms associated with cancer. This system has been used in China for centuries as a preventive measure. Qi Gong directs the production and flow of qi or vital life force throughout the body. This life force is considered an essential component of Traditional Chinese Medicine and determining the flow of qi is an important part of the analysis of any disease.
The main ways that Qi Gong aids in resisting cancer are by:
· Supplying additional oxygen to the body cells – this is helpful because cancer cells cannot survive in an oxygen-rich environment and unlike vigorous exercise the oxygen is distributed throughout the body instead of being concentrated in the muscles.
· Improving the balance in the autonomic nervous system – this is beneficial because the autonomic nervous system controls our ‘fight-or-flight’ response and dumps stress-related hormones into our system that suppress our immune system. Balancing this system decreases blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels, which helps the oxygen supply and boosts the immune function.
· Increasing the function of the lymph system – this is advantageous because the lymph system acts as the body’s sewage system, taking toxins from all the body’s cells. Improving the circulation of the lymph system rids the body of toxins more rapidly and transporting immune system cells to areas of need.
In the next article, we will complete our five part series on cancer as we explore the use of Energy Support Therapies for cancer therapy. These methods include Electrodermal Screening, Magnetic Therapy, and Light Therapy. If you would like more information on any topic discussed in this article, you can contact me through my website. As always, I hope that you have found this information helpful and educational. Remember that you are the one in charge of your health.
Jerry Ryan, Ph.D. is a Natural Health Coach who teaches individuals and group classes on the scientifically documented benefits of natural health techniques. He is also an internationally published author and has been a guest speaker at such places as NIKE World Headquarters. For more information, his website is http://www.JerryRyanPhD.com
Anxiety And Depression: Bio-Identical Hormone And Neurotransmitter Therapies Can Help!
Posted by admin on Feb 27, 2010
Naturopaths are certainly in a position to help with depression and anxiety.
What’s more, naturopathic treatments may be combined with other healing arts to focus on the “hormone-brain connection.” This last idea takes into account the fact that hormones readily cross the blood-brain barrier, and that some hormones are directly synthesized in the brain. So, hormones and neurotransmitters have the potential to impact each other by stimulating receptor sites and tissue response.
All of this counters hormonal imbalances that may lead to brain degeneration and therefore, mental and emotional deterioration.
For this reason, as a naturopath-specialist, I take an integrative approach and evaluate the influence of hormones in three ways. First, I consider hormones’ direct influences on the brain. Second, I consider how the brain influences the endocrine system. And finally, I look at overall health, including mental-emotional health.
The work with my patients includes a full assessment of their hormonal and neurotransmitter status. Then, in order to help patients in my San Jose, Costa Rica practice achieve positive outcomes, I provide proper nutritional support and recommend changes in lifestyle. Dietary habits to manage blood sugar disorders are especially important.
Treatment is based on natural compounds. For example, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, and herbs all enhance neurotransmitter and brain function. When tests indicate the treatment, I also use bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.
Clients have used words like “delicate” and “natural” when describing the treatment. The results have been positive.
A longer version of this article is located at: http://balanceybienestar.com/ansiedad_y_depresion/
Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Chotocruz, works as as primary care physician in San Jose, Costa Rica. Her areas of specialty include: women’s healthcare, natural hormone replacement therapy, weight loss and weight loss resistance, bioidentical hormones, and preventative medicine.
For more information, please see: http://balanceybienestar.com
Natural Health Therapies and Cancer – Part II
Posted by admin on Feb 17, 2010
This article is part of a series on Natural Health Therapies and Cancer. The material presented is meant to inform you of complementary cancer therapies that are available in the medical community. These therapies are to be used in cooperation with other cancer treatment methods. They are not meant to be done in place of your physician’s care. In the last article, we covered the basics of cancer – what it is, what causes it, what are its various types and stages. This article will focus on the aspect of Dietary Changes and Nutritional Supplements as a form of cancer therapy.
Aside from tobacco and smoking, there is no greater factor for triggering and promoting cancer than diet and nutrition. When used correctly, diet and nutrition are also the factors that have the highest ability to reverse cancer. According to the National Academy of Sciences, 40% of all cancer in men may be directly related to diet. The statistics are even worse for women; 60% of all cancers in women may be linked to nutritional factors.
As I’ve pointed out in other articles, what we eat is important to our health. Equally important is what we don’t eat. Our society has turned from a natural, raw food diet to a highly processed and refined diet. The average American meal consists of high-fat, high-protein, low-fiber foods in oversized portions. Our fast-paced society even calls some of them a ‘Value Meal.’ Where’s the value? The nationwide increase in cancer has been parallel to the decline in our eating habits.
Several areas of our society’s diet are excessive. In clinical studies, these excesses have been found to significantly increase cancer risks. The key sections of the American diet that contribute to cancer are:
· Excessive intake of animal protein (meat, cheese, dairy) – can increase the risk for cancer in the breast, colon, pancreas, kidney, prostate, and endometrium; certain preparation and cooking techniques (such as pickling, smoking, frying) add to the cancer risks; fatty meats contain higher levels of carcinogenic pesticides
· Intake of contaminated fish – mercury, nickel, oil, and PCBs found in many marketplace fish; 1/10 of a teaspoon of PCBs is enough to cause illness or cancer
· Excessive fat intake – can increase risk for cancer of the breast, colon, rectum, uterus, prostate, and kidney; partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are considered major problems along with insufficient intake of healthy Omega-3 fats
· Excessive intake of refined carbohydrates and table sugar – lowers immune system function; elevates insulin levels (which can promote breast cancer); tumors thrive in a high-glucose environment
· Excessive intake of iron – associated with red meat, fortified breads and pastas; cooking in iron pots and skillets can add to your iron exposure
· Excessive intake of alcohol – can increase risk for cancer in the breast, mouth, throat, pancreas, liver, head and neck; alcohol suppresses Natural Killer cells that help repel cancer
· Excessive intake of caffeine – cancer rates are higher for those who drink more than 3 cups of coffee a day; caffeine can cause DNA damage, adding to cancer risk
Although it looks like our diets doom us to destruction, there are steps we can take to reduce the cancer risk. Here are some ways to combat and prevent cancer through some simple changes in your diet –
· Eat more fruits and vegetables
· Drink green tea, fresh juices
· Eat nuts, seeds, legumes
· Avoid all red meats, dairy products, eggs and shellfish
· Avoid refined, sugary foods
· Avoid caffeine and alcohol
· Avoid all vegetable oils especially hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils
· Use olive, pumpkin seed, flaxseed, walnut, and sesame oils
· Avoid margarine, fried foods, creamy sauces and dressings
· Eat salmon, halibut, red snapper, and flounder for healthy Omega-3 fats
· Avoid cooking in iron or aluminum cookware
· Use stainless steel or glass cookware
· Avoid microwave use, particularly with plastic containers
· Eat organically-grown foods when possible
More advanced nutritional therapies include Vegan and Macrobiotic diets. These nutritional
regimens consist of raw, natural foods and specific food preparation techniques. These diets are used to help cleanse the digestive system, allowing the elimination of excessive toxins.
Nutritional supplements can play a major role in cancer prevention and cancer therapy. There are many different approaches being practiced successfully. For example, antioxidants, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Alpha-Lipoic-Acid combat the free radical damage associated with cancer. Sea vegetables such as kombu are linked to a lower breast cancer rate in Japanese women. Garlic appears to boost the Natural Killer cell function and block cancer cells in the bloodstream. Certain types of digestive enzymes can be used to break down the protective coating on certain cancer cells. Minerals such as selenium, magnesium, calcium, and zinc are also used in varying dosages for certain cancer therapies.
As you may know, my PhD research is on the connection between nutrition and health. I’m concentrating on the importance of 8 basic carbohydrates called glyconutrients that help the cells communicate properly. ‘Glyco’ means sugar and these 8 simple sugars are involved in every cell interaction. The relatively new scientific field of glycobiology is making amazing discoveries on the impact of these simple sugars on our health. The studies show that many of these glyconutritional sugars, such as fucose, inhibit growth and/or tumor cell metastasis in certain cancers. The inhibition of cancer growth by glyconutritional sugars, such as mannose, appears to be partially related to immune system activation of Natural Killer cells, the white blood cell that destroys cancer cells. Research also demonstrates that glyconutritional sugars appear to inhibit tumor cell metastasis by preventing the attachment of tumor cells to normal cells. They do this by competing for glyconutritional sugar binding sites on the cell surfaces.
I personally know individuals that have had outstanding results against cancer with the use of these nutrients. Various glyconutrients are traditionally found in mother’s breast milk, pectin from apples and oranges, specific types of mushrooms, and limu. However, most of these glyconutrients are not in our diets. Luckily, our bodies can manufacture many of these nutrients through a lengthy metabolic process. Unfortunately, the effects of stress, medications, and other environmental factors make this process difficult and prone to errors. For that reason as well as the nutrition lost from the over-processing of our foods, the only way to insure that you get all 8 glyconutrients is through nutritional supplements. For additional information on glyconutritional supplements, you may also refer to material posted at www.glycoscience.com or at www.glycoinformation.com. You can also research these nutrients on PubMed under glycobiology or by name of the sugar such as fucose, mannose, etc.
A couple of good books for Cancer and Nutrition that I recommend are:
Beating Cancer with Nutrition by Patrick Quillin, Ph.D., and Director of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Options: The Alternative Cancer Therapy Book by R. Walters
Alternatives in Cancer Therapy by R. Pelton and L. Overholser
Sugars that Heal by Dr. Emil Mendoa, MD
“Education is the best provision for the journey to old age” – Aristotle
Jerry Ryan, Ph.D. is a Natural Health Coach who teaches individuals and group classes on the scientifically documented benefits of natural health techniques. He is also an internationally published author and has been a guest speaker at such places as NIKE World Headquarters. For more information, his website is http://www.JerryRyanPhD.com
Chinese Medicine Therapies to Stay in Balance and Keep Qi Flowing
Posted by admin on Jan 22, 2010
Chinese medicine is not just acupuncture or herbal therapy. There is a whole host of different therapies the people of China use to stay in balance and keep qi flowing in a proper balance.
Chinese medicine is just one of many alternative medical systems available in the world today according to western medicine. The basic alternative medical systems are:
Ayurveda
Chiropractic
Herbalism
Homeopathy
naturopathic medicine
Osteopathy
Traditional Chinese medicine
Unani
In China, Traditional Chinese medicine is the main healthcare system.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a theory that says that all of the bodily processes are interrelated and in constant interaction with the environment. When there is an unbalance in the body with the environment, then, illness is present in the body. There are various treatments used to help keep the balance. These treatments are based on philosophical frameworks that include yin and yang, the five elements, the meridian system, Zang Fu organ theory and a few others that are lesser in importance.
The patient is treated as a whole entity and not just a disease. A diagnosis is made by conversation with the patient, by smelling, listening to the sounds the patient makes, by touching the patient and by examination. A pulse reading is also taken as part of the diagnostic process. The patient’s tongue is also examined. Temperature of different parts of the body is also noted.
Therapies:
There are usually a combination of therapies involved in the treatment of the patient including Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, die-da or tieh ta, Chinese food therapy, massage therapy (tui na), qigong, physical exercise and also mental health therapy such as feng shui or Chinese astrology is consulted.
Cupping, gua sha and auriculotherapy are done during acupuncture or moxibustion.
Herbal medicine is the treatment of the body by way of medicinal herbal teas, pills and use of food therapy (eating to heal).
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical method of unblocking qi by inserting fine needles at specific points (acupoints) on the body to restore the balance of qi.
Moxibustion is a Chinese medicine therapy that utilizes mugwort herb as a form of heat therapy.
Jin Gu Die Da Wan is a herbal remedy that breaks blood stagnation, helps to tonify blood, stops bleeding, opens the channels and strengthens bones and also relieves pain.
Tui na is a form of Chinese manipulative therapy often used when acupuncture or moxibustion is being performed.
Qigong is a part of Chinese medicine that deals with the coordination of different breathing patterns and series of physical postures and motions of the body for the proper maintenance of the body. These breathing patterns and body postures are also taught as part of the traditional Chinese martial arts training.
Chinese medicine recognizes the importance of a total healthy connection between body, mind, physical exercise, healthy diet, and the balance of life. A combination of therapies is usually prescribed for a patient and not just one as the Chinese believe that one is unbalanced and can falter where when more than one is prescribed they will balance each other weaknesses and have greater strength.
Scott Meyers is a staff writer for Its Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Natural Healing Therapies Today
Posted by admin on Jan 21, 2010
Find Natural Healing Therapies in the United States and Canada. Though there are numerous CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) therapies from which to choose, natural healing therapies that are commonly offered at natural healthcare schools include practical instruction in massage therapy, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and holistic healing, among others.
natural healing therapies like massage therapy are a safe and natural treatment to reduce stress and alleviate pain. Individuals who would like to pursue an education in natural healing therapies such as this gain in-depth instruction in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology. In addition, hands-on training is provided in an assortment of bodywork techniques including deep tissue, Swedish massage, and sports massage – to list a few. Programs in massage therapy often range from 300-1,000 hours, and result in a certificate or diploma.
Training in other natural healing therapies like reflexology involve studies of a science based on the zones and reflex areas of the ears, feet and hands that correlate to specific bodily systems, glands and organs. A relatively condensed program, graduates of a reflexology course can go onto becoming reflexologists or may wish to integrate natural healing therapies like this into established massage therapy practices.
Some natural healing therapies taught at holistic healing schools include training in aromatherapy, anti-aging medicine, life coaching, art and poetry therapies, hypnotherapy, colon hydrotherapy, herbology, polarity therapy, Qi gong and so much more. For example, if you would like to learn about natural healing therapies like herbal medicine, you have the option to enroll in an introductory course where you will learn basic principles and theories of the craft and how to effectively use safe, home remedies for common ailments.
In some healing arts schools, academic programs offering natural healing therapies like herbal medicine, naturopathy, chiropractic and acupuncture may lead to a degree. It is always wise to review curriculums and course prerequisites prior to applying to the college or school of choice. In most cases, general educational programs that offer natural healing therapies like Reiki, healing touch, massage therapy and other natural healthcare modalities do not require a college degree or other formal education.
Overall, natural healing therapies are gaining wide acceptance throughout the general public. This is one of the many motivations why individuals might seriously consider a career in natural healthcare. Enrolling in a natural healing school to become a natural healthcare provider is a good start to a long-term, professional goal.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding natural healing therapies and natural healing schools, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.
Natural Healing Therapies Today
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Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Natural Healing Therapies, Natural Healing Schools, and other Holistic Schools.
Alternative Healing: The Complete A-Z Guide to More Than 150 Alternative Therapies
Posted by admin on Jan 10, 2010
Product Description
A reference providing information on the background, founders, history, common uses, terms, types of practitioners, and goals of each of the therapies outlined also provides a cross-referenced guide to nearly 170 health concerns and the five most used therapies for each. Original…. More >>
alternative healing: The Complete A-Z Guide to More Than 150 Alternative Therapies” rel=”nofollow”>Alternative Healing: The Complete A-Z Guide to More Than 150 Alternative Therapies
Alternative Healing,Alternative Therapies For All Diseases
Posted by admin on Jan 6, 2010
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