Acne
Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pimples, blackheads, and white heads.
To some point it affects about 80% of all Americans between the ages of twelve and forty-four. Acne has become the most commonly treated skin condition. Possibly western lifestyle contributes to this change. The contributing factors include stress, diet, allergy, air contamination and many other environmental factors.
Acne often arises in puberty, when a body severely increases its production of male sex hormones. Acne is not just affecting kids anymore - it is also affecting increasing number of adults. Many women suffer premenstrual acne flare-ups prompted by the release of progesterone after ovulation. Factors that can contribute to this problem include heredity, oily skin, hormonal imbalance, and candidiasis. A body pH that is too acidic or too alkaline also fosters the nesting of acne-causing bacteria.
Natural approach:
~ Acidophilus (by Renew Life) replenishes essential bacteria to reduce outbreaks.
~ Colloidal Silver (by Sovereign Silver) acts as a natural antibiotic
~ Essential Fatty acids (by The Natural Way) provide essential gamma-lanolenic acid to keep skin smooth and soft, repair tissue and dissolve fatty deposits that block pores.
Also aids in healing:
~ Good source of multivitamins as A, B, C, D3, E and Zinc (by The Natural Way, Garden of Life, New Chapter…etc) act as antioxidants, antistressors, improve blood flow, promote immune function and reduce inflammation.
Herbs:
~ Burdock root, dandelion, milk thistle, and a red clover are good to combat acne.
~ Lavender and strawberry leaves can be used in steam sauna for the face.
~ Tee Tree Oil, a natural antibiotic and antiseptic, could be applied a few times a day directly to blemishes, but be careful if a rush appears and discontinue full strength and use diluted.
Adrenal Disorders
Dysfunctions that are directly related to the adrenal gland include reduced adrenal function, usually referred to as low adrenal reserve.
The adrenal glands produce enough hormones to maintain a relatively normal state of health but stressful situations increase the need for hormones that malfunctioning adrenals cannot produce leading to anything from fatigue to total collapse. Symptoms of reduces adrenal function can include weakness, lethargy, fatigue, recurrent infections, dizziness, low blood pressure when first standing, headaches, memory problems, food craving, allergies and blood sugar disorders.
Natural Approach:
~ Vitamin B complex (by The Natural Way, Solaray, New Chapter, garden of Life, etc.) necessary for adrenal function.
~ Vitamin C with bioflavonoids (by The Natural Way, Solaray, Nature's Plus, etc.) vital for proper functioning of adrenal glands.
~ L-Tyrosine 500 mg. (by Solaray, Now, Natural Factors etc.) aids adrenal glands function relieves excess stress put on glands. Caution: Do not take tyrosine if you taking MAO inhibitors drugs.
~ Raw Adrenal glandular protein derived from this product helps to rebuild and repair the adrenal glands.
~ Coenzyme Q10 (by The Natural Way, Natural Factors, Solgar, Now, etc.) carries oxygen to all glands.
~ High-Potency Multivitamins (by The Natural Way, Solaray, New Chapter, Garden of Life, Enzymatic Therapy) all nutrients are needed to support proper adrenal function.
Herbs:
~ Milk Thistle aids liver function, which in turn helps adrenal function.
~ Herbs such as Kava-Kava, St.Johns wort, Valerian root are good stress reducers.
~ Siberian ginseng and Ashwagandha are also known as adaptogen and helping cope with stressful situation. Caution: Do not take ginseng if you have hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, or a heart problem.
Aging
Aging is not an illness or disorder but it does make our bodies more susceptible to various diseases. There are many theories on aging and its causes. Some of the more well-known ones are:
DNA/genetic theory - Things that happened in our lifespan can damage the DNA and they include: exposure to pollutants, toxins, radiation, our diet and many other environmental factors.
Neuroendocrine theory - Secretion of hormones gradually decreases over time.
Free radical/oxidation theory - environmental factors, exposure to toxins, pollutants, radiation, alcohol, tobacco as well as diet, cause highly reactive cell by-products called free radicals.
Immune theory - the immune system gradually gets less effective as we age.
Telomere theory - Cells in the body are replaced by means of cell division, and there is a limit on the number of times they may divide successfully.
Stem cell theory - this theory explains that as we age we begin loosing stem cells from the reserve we are granted at birth.
Adding the right supplement should give you the power needed to boost your immunity, and prevent most disorders. Looking youthful for your age is an added bonus.
Natural approach:
~ Alfa-lipoic acid (by The Natural Way, Solaray, Solgar etc.) powerful antioxidant, an aids proper sugar balance.
~ Coenzyme Q10 (by The Natural Way, Solgar, Natural Factors, etc) aids circulation, improves cellular oxygenation, protects the heart.
~ Multivitamins and mineral complex with natural beta carotene (by The Natural Way, Solaray, etc) - high quality vitamins, guard all organs including lungs.
~ Omega3 essential fatty acids (by The Natural Way, Nordic, Barlean's) plays an important role in cell formation, essential for proper brain function, protects heart and keep vessels from formation of plaque.
~ A group of amino acids such as L-arginine, L-carnitine, L-lysine, L-methionine,
L-ornithine, L-tyrosine, N-acetylcystine.
~ 5- HTP (by The Natural way, Solaray, Now, Natural Factors, etc) - an important neurotransmitter.
~ Lecithin granules or capsules - improves memory and brain function. A fat emulsifier.
~ Phosphatidyl serine (by The Natural way, Solgar, etc) - improves brain function.
~ RNA and DNA - excellent for healthy cell reproduction. Caution: do not take if you have gout.
Herbs:
~ Green tea - aids in cancer avoidance.
~ Noni - relieve joint problem, support cellular regeneration, and improve digestion.
~ Kava-Kava, St. John's wort, Valerian - is valuable as sleep aid, and tranquilizers.
~ Saw Palmetto - for men and Wild yam for women - regulate sexual hormone production.
~ Nettle - full of vital minerals and is good for depression, allergies, hypoglycemia, prostate and urinary tract disorders.
Please visit one of our stores and our knowledgeable personnel will help you choose the right product and answer all your questions.
Allergies
An allergic reaction is an inappropriate immune reaction to an otherwise harmless substance. Allergens can be environmental, chemical, or food-based. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, animal dander, and certain foods. Allergens can be absorbed into the body through the skin, respiratory tract, or gastrointestinal tract. Allergens are proteins or low-molecular weight substances that the body identifies as antigenic. This creates an immune response known as a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. The production of chemical mediators in these allergic reactions may produce symptoms ranging from mild to life threatening.
Under normal conditions, the immune system is highly adept at recognizing and destroying the myriad of foreign substances capable of invading the body (i.e., bacteria, viruses, parasites). The complex mechanisms of immune defense usually work in tandem with the host tissues of the body, averting secondary damage and destruction. The immune system consists of several branches, each with its own protective functions. B-lymphocytes (B cells) and plasma cells produce a series of plasma proteins known as immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins are antibodies capable of recognizing, destroying, and positioning antigens for removal from the body.
The etiology of allergic reactions is unclear. Some immunologists suggest that allergic reactions stem from an evolutionary response to parasitic infection. This theory proposes that the human immune system has developed a high sensitivity to parasites, which increase white blood cell production, and the release of pro-inflammatory factors. In developed countries, where parasitic infestation is relatively low, allergies are more common than in less developed countries. It is thought that when the immune system is fighting parasitic infections, it does not have the resources to defend against less threatening agents. Another theory is that people with dysbiosis may have a heightened allergic response.
Statistics
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 2008
- Food allergies in the U.S. affect approximately 3 million children. An 18 percent increase since 1997.
World Health Organization, 2005.
- Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis affects more than 115 million people worldwide.
- 30%-50% of people are genetically predisposed to develop Immunoglobulin E antibody (IgE) to common environmental allergens.
Centers for Disease Control, 2004.
- 12% of U.S. children under 18 years of age suffered from respiratory allergies in the past 12 months.
- Children living in the South (15%) were more likely to have respiratory allergies than those living in the Midwest (11%), Northeast (10%), or West (8%).
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology in San Diego, 1999.
- 50 million people suffer from allergies.
- Of these, 1/6 have allergic asthma.
- 6 million have non allergic asthma caused by exercise, chemical pollution, and smoking.
Natural Approach
In the 1940s, it was first discovered that vitamin C was useful in the treatment of allergies. In a chronic allergies study, 10 men and women participated for 6 weeks ingesting a placebo for 4 weeks and 2g/day of vitamin C for 2 weeks. There was a significant rise in plasma ascorbate and a decrease in histamine levels of 38% after vitamin C supplementation indicating that vitamin C’s usefulness in allergy treatment may stem from the fact that it metabolizes, or detoxifies, histamine in vivo. Another study demonstrated that 11 people who had either low vitamin C levels or elevated blood histamine levels, given 1 gm of vitamin C daily for three days, had their blood histamine levels decline. A two week randomized study involving 60 patients suffering from perennial allergic rhinitis were administered a solution of ascorbic acid. The solution caused a decrease in symptoms in 74 percent of patients.
This agent has been reported to reduce allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells. Quercetin belongs to a class of compounds known as bioflavonoids, which frequently occur in nature along with vitamin C. Quercetin in conjunction with vitamin C reportedly helps to reduce the severity of symptoms in individuals with hay fever.
Some individuals with allergic conditions have been found to have lower delta-6 desaturase enzyme activity, which inhibits the conversion of alpha linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6) to their longer-chain metabolites. This in turn inhibits the production of the important anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Clinical trials indicate that appropriate fatty acid supplementation often alleviates a broad range of allergic-type inflammatory conditions.
Alpha linolenic Acid :Also known as omega-3, it is the precursor to the series 3 prostaglandins (PGE3), which are anti-inflammatory in nature. The omega-3/omega-6 fatty acid ratios tend to be out of balance in the diets of many people in the United States. Proper adjustments of dietary fatty acids can play a key role in the successful management of inflammation associated with atopic diseases. This involves decreasing the intake of oils high in omega-6 (corn, safflower, and sunflower oils) and increasing the intake of omega-3. Flaxseed oil is a rich source of omega-3 as well as fish oils. A minimum of an extra 400 IU of natural vitamin E should be taken daily when consuming supplemental omega-3.
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA): This is the elongated metabolite of linoleic acid (omega-6). Studies reveal that many people with allergic conditions have adequate plasma levels of linoleic acid, but a deficiency of GLA. This indicates reduced activity of the delta-6 desaturase enzyme activity resulting in a subsequent decrease in the conversion of omega-6 to GLA. The administration of supplemental GLA has proven to be of therapeutic benefit for patients with conditions such as atopic eczema. Two of the best sources of GLA are borage oil (23%) and evening primrose oil (10%).
Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus
Probiotics containing lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus casei and bifidobacteria are important supplements for individuals with food allergies or intolerances. In one study, every child that was suffering from symptoms related to food allergies was found to have deficiencies of lactobacillus and bifidobacteria, along with an overgrowth of Enterobacteriaceae. Another study found that lactobacillus supplementation given to subjects with allergic rhinitis improved their allergy symptoms.
Herb.
Proanthocyanidins (PCO's), the active constituents in grape seed, are flavonoid-rich compounds and free radical scavengers. It has been reported to enhance the absorption of and work synergistically with vitamin C. It has been used for supportive care in allergies and asthma. PCO's have been reported to inhibit the release of mediators of inflammation, such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins, mechanisms that would be beneficial in multiple inflammatory processes such as allergies and asthma. In contrast, a study involving forty-nine seasonal allergic rhinitis sufferers compared the effects of 100mg grape seed extract twice a day against placebo. The evaluation of multiple endpoints demonstrated no significant differences between the treatment and placebo groups. Proanthocyanidins are reported to neutralize several classes of free radicals, including hydroxyl, lipid peroxides, and iron-induced lipid peroxidation. They may inhibit the enzyme xanthine oxidase.
The freeze-dried leaf of stinging nettle has been used in relation to allergies, with some success. A randomized, double-blind study of 92 individuals reported that a freeze-dried preparation of stinging nettle leaf was superior to placebo in relieving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (itching, watery eyes, runny nose).
Coleus is a relatively new medicinal herb in the United States, although it has been extensively researched in India over the last twenty years. There have been studies published supporting its hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) and spasmolytic effects. Most studies have been conducted with the isolated extract, forskolin, but current research supports that the whole plant may be actually more effective.
Homeopathic
Allium cepa
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Burning nasal discharge, worse indoors; Eyes sensitive to light; Sneezing; Sensation of hook sticking in throat, worse with warm food or drinks
Arsenicum album
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Feel worn out; Sneezing; Eyes sensitive to light
Arundo mauritanica
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Itching; Burning eyes and runny nose; Ears and roof of mouth itch
Drosera rotundifolia
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Profuse, fluid discharge; Sneezing
Histaminum
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
May counteract histaminic release in body
Kali bichromicum
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Nasal congestion with thick, yellow discharge, crusts in nose; Headaches centered in the eyes
Sabadilla
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
Violent sneezing; Watery eyes; Puffy red eyelids; Headache, better from warm drinks
Ambrosia
Typical Dosage: 6X or 6C, 30X or 30C
General improvement of ragweed response including sneezing, burning eyes, and runny nose
Aromatherapy for Allergies
Many essential oils possess the following properties: Expectorant, mucolytic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti allergenic, immune stimulating, and antibacterial. These properties suggest the effective use of essential oil therapy in allergies. The following oils may be used in a diffuser with a carrier oil, and inhaled as needed:
- Lavender (Lavendula augustifolia) 5 drops
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) 2 drops
- Lemon (Citrus Limonum) 1 drop
- Juniper (Juniperus communis) 1 drop
- Peppermint (Mentha piperta) 1 drop
Inhaled oils stimulate cilia on olfactory epithelium and thereby pass the message of smell on to the brain. Essential oils have the ability to stimulate any of the brain centers, evoking response.
Caution: Essential Oil therapies should not be used during pregnancy or lactation and should always be used under the direction of an experienced aromatherapist.
Diet and Lifestyle
- Avoid allergens as much as possible. There are a variety of air filtration devices for the home. Ozone purifiers and HEPA filtration are state of the art for home use in reducing mold, pollen, dander, and dust mites indoors.
- Reduce exposure to environmental pollutants, cigarette smoke, and other pollutants.
- Use hypoallergenic products whenever possible.
- Drink quality water, either filtered, reverse osmosis, or bottled.
Reduce intake of foods that increase arachidonic acid cascade such as meat.