It’s Entirely Natural – Articles

All fruits are healthy to the human body in specific ways. A combination of fruits in your diet can help to keep you healthy, and cure certain diseases as well. There is a huge variety of fruits that can help you, including apples, apricots, bananas, blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, kiwi fruit, lemon/limes and oranges. Other healing fruits include papaya, pears, pineapple, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries and watermelon. Here we take a look at a variety of the healing properties of a selection of fruits.

Amaranth is a food that not everyone is familiar with. While technically a fruit, amaranth is commonly used as a type of grain that is found in many different types of breads, muffins, pasta and other foods that are as an adjunct to flour. The seeds of amaranth are extremely high in protein that builds muscle. Amaranth is much richer in protein than most grains. Amaranth seeds are also excellent at building up the immune system because they are high in zinc, copper and magnesium.

Apricots are excellent antioxidants. They are chock-full of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Research studies have yielded the fact that beta carotene is beneficial at protecting the body against lung cancer. Apricots are great sources of fiber. Apricots are more nutritious if you buy them fresh as opposed to canned.

Bananas are full of potassium, and therefore great at reducing blood pressure. Bananas are full of vitamin B6, which is good for encouraging the strength of the immune system. Bananas are particularly good to start off the day. Eat a banana with a glass of low fat milk and a piece of whole wheat bread (or toast) with peanut butter for breakfast and it will give you plenty of energy. For a change of pace whip up a banana shake in the blender and drink your start to a good day!

Cantaloupe is full of plenty of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, potassium and fiber. Research studies have shown that beta-carotene is particularly helpful at fighting cancers that originate in the lungs but more recent studies have shown that it is also worthwhile for fighting other types of cancers such as cancer of the cervix, uterine cancer, stomach cancer and oral forms of cancers. Evidence also supports that vitamin C decreases the incidence of mouth cancers, throat cancers, pancreatic cancer and stomach cancer.

Figs are beneficial to health and that is the case regardless of whether you choose to eat figs fresh or in their dried form. Figs have plenty of vitamin C, fiber, magnesium and potassium in them. Figs contain a type of fruit fiber that is able to decrease blood pressure, and in particular, systolic blood pressure, which is the top number of the blood pressure reading which in turn, calculates the pressure of the contractions of the heart. Fiber in general is connected to decreasing the bottom number of the blood pressure equation, which is the diastolic blood pressure. The diastolic blood pressure stands for the pressure of the heart when it is resting between its contracting action.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Food Cures.

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Tags: antioxidants, beta carotene, blood pressure, blueberries, cranberries, Food Cures, grapes, immune system, kiwi fruit, limes, magnesium, prunes, strawberries, vitamins, vitamins minerals, whole wheat

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There are few people who don’t like to have a massage. I’m sure that if you are reading this article, you are among the many who enjoys a good massage. Many like massage to relax, and to ease sore and stiff muscles. But massage has many other therapeutic uses.

People use massage therapy to improve circulation and improve the function of the lymph nodes, which carry toxic materials out of the body. Some massages are used to strengthen and relax the muscles, making it easier to move. Therapeutic massage therapy can also help you to reduce fatigue and ease minor aches and pains.

Another benefit of massage therapy is the glow it can give your skin. A good massage can stimulate the skin keep it cool and moisturized. A skin that glows makes a body look and feel healthy. A massage may also boost the immune system and help you stay healthier.

There are some risks involved in having therapeutic massage. For example, you should not have a massage if you have blood vessel diseases. Check with your primary care doctor before having a massage if there is a clot in a vein. Massage could dislodge the clot and free it into the bloodstream to block the heart or the lungs. If you have any cardiovascular diseases involving swollen blood vessels or heart disease you should check with your doctor before having a massage.

Another risk involved in a therapeutic massage is if you have a burn, open cuts, swelling, infected skin, or herpes or cold sores—all can be contraindications that you should wait until you heal. If you have back pain, you should ask your doctor before having a massage. You should also not visit a massage therapist if you have a high fever or chills. This could be the sign of a serious illness.

Massage therapy should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. The risk of miscarriage is the highest in the first three months and your abdomen, feet and legs should not be massaged. A therapist trained in massage during pregnancy will be able to provide the right technique for massaging the feet and lower legs. Always check with your doctor before getting a massage when you are pregnant.

Breaking bones that did not heal should not be massaged. Anyone with weak bones or with osteoporosis should avoid any form of massage. You should check with your doctor if you have a mild case of osteoporosis before having massage therapy.

Before getting a therapeutic massage, you should know that massage therapy is normally not covered by most health insurance plans. A massage may be covered by insurance if a doctor prescribes it.

Choosing a massage therapist is an important part of your therapy. Make sure your therapist is licensed and accredited through your state. They should have gone through a massage training program and you should choose if you would be more comfortable with a male or female therapist.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Massage Therapy.

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Tags: immune system, Massage Therapy

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There are a great number of foods that are healing in nature to the human body. Many of these foods may surprise you. This article will deal with a number of these foods, and discuss how they help the body.

Take the time to learn what foods are the most healing. If you already eat a vast array of healing foods then good for you- keep on doing what you are doing. If on the other hand your body could use a larger dose of healing foods then revamp your daily diet with some foods that can help to support health. These foods can also benefit you when you fall ill.

Artichokes are helpful in several ways. Artichokes can lower cholesterol, improve digestion and protect your heart from diseases. Artichokes can also help to protect your liver from being invaded by disease and they can stabilize your blood sugar if it tends to be on the high side.

Chili peppers are worth including in your diet if your throat is sore and achy and your sinuses are bothering you. Chili peppers certainly have a bite to them, but they are excellent for digestion and they help to fight cancer before they start. Chili peppers are extremely beneficial in boosting the function of the immune system.

Sometimes nuts are just what the doctor ordered. Peanuts help to protect against diseases of the heart, as they lower cholesterol levels and encourage weight loss. Peanuts are especially good for men as they help to combat prostrate cancer. Chestnuts are not just a Christmas time treat; they can be eaten all year long for their healing properties. Chestnuts are very protective of the heart they also combat a variety of cancers. These nuts also help to lower cholesterol and control blood pressure. Chestnuts are beneficial as well for individuals who are attempting to lose some weight.

If you enjoy walnuts then you are in luck! Walnuts have many healing properties. Walnuts help to combat a variety of cancers and they lower cholesterol and protect the heart against disease. Walnuts also aid in a sharp, clear memory and they are an instant mood-lifter.

Prunes are known to be good at preventing constipation, but they are also excellent at protecting the heart from disease, lowering cholesterol and boosting a person’s ability to remember these. Prunes are also believed to play an integral role in slowing down the process of aging, which is enough to make anyone smile.

Green tea is very therapeutic to the human body. This type of tea protects the heart, helps to prevent the onset of strokes and is excellent at combating cancer. As well green tea is an effective bacteria killer and it is helpful when it comes to losing weight.

If you like to take honey in your tea, or if you enjoy putting one of nature’s purest foods on toast, then you are being very smart. Honey is beneficial for the digestive process. It protects against the development of ulcers and encourages the healing of wounds. Honey is also effective at fighting a variety of allergies and it is an excellent energy booster.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Food Cures.

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Tags: artichokes, blood pressure, blood sugar, chestnuts, chili peppers, cholesterol, constipation, digestion, Food Cures, healing foods, honey, immune system, nuts, peanuts, prunes, walnuts, weight loss

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Beans and lentils are healthy foods. They are sometimes neglected as a good source for health and nutrition because they can be perceived as boring and flavorless. Beans and lentils are nevertheless extremely nutritious and should be included as a part of a healthy diet.

Both beans and lentils are packed full of fiber and protein and contain very little fat. Beans and lentils are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which can be beneficial in fighting a number of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke, inflammatory diseases, osteoporosis and depression.

Black beans are a source of soluble fiber and are effective in lowering bad cholesterol by as much as 24 percent. A side-benefit of this decrease in LDL’s is to lower blood pressure. The fiber in black beans is able to sufficiently keep sugar levels to within a healthy zone, while damping hunger. Black beans are good for diabetics because they can level out their calorie consumption without elevating their glucose levels.

These same beneficial effects can be found in a number of different kinds of beans. The most popular kinds of beans and peas include chickpeas (or garbanzo beans), lima beans, fava beans, kidney beans, black-eyed peas, navy beans, pinto beans and great northern beans.

Lentils are rich in many nutrients, but are particularly rich when it comes to the B vitamins. These B vitamins can help to prevent heart attacks. Lentils are also very rich in protein, fiber and a variety of minerals such as ones that help support the strength of the immune system. Examples of these are copper, zinc and manganese and iron. Lentils are particularly rich in iron, which recommends them for people with certain kinds of iron-deficiency anemia.

Miso may not be found in many American households, but it should be considered as a healthy alternative, and a great way to increase the number of beans in your diet. Miso is a type of soybean paste that is often used as a seasoning for sauces and soups. Miso is rich in substances called isoflavones which are believed to help protect against the development and growth of breast cancer because they inhibit the growth of the blood vessels that are responsible fro the rapid growth of tumors.

Also rich in both iron and calcium (when it is sufficiently processed with the salts of calcium) is soybean curd or tofu. Tempeh is another soy product that boasts high levels of vitaimin A, B6, magnesium and zinc. Tempeh has slightly lower levels of fat than does tofu. Other soy products are worth considering because of their nutritional value, including soymilk and other soy beverages such as chocolate soymilk, soy nuts, soy yogurt, tofu (as previously mentioned) and a variety of products made from tofu.

All soy products are derived from soybeans. This means that they all are high in protein content. Protein is made up of all of the essential amino acids that the body needs to function at its healthiest. Soybeans are also extremely rich in all of the B vitamins, as well as fiber, the omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and phosphorus.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Food Cures.

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Tags: antioxidants, beans, cholesterol, Depression, Fiber, Food Cures, immune system, lentils, magnesium, nutrition, nuts, omega 3 fatty acids

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When you have the flu, your first priority is getting well. Here are some things that you can try in order to get better from the flu:

Stay at home. There are limits to the air filtration systems in almost all settings. When you are in a store, you may also leave behind virus particles that can infect other people. As an example, one person going to work while suffering with the flu can infect everyone else in the office in a matter of hours. Your co-workers and supervisors will appreciate it more if you take the proper care of yourself, and at the same time, refrain from passing the flu on to them.

The flu is often accompanied by fatigue and muscles aches. Unnecessary stress should not be made on the body during this time. Bed rest is often advisable. While you may want to take a leisurely walk, this is not the time to start an intensive fitness regime. If at all possible, try to let the sunshine and fresh air into your room. Not only will this brighten up the atmosphere, it will help clear out the flu particles from the air. Avoid becoming chilled; as reduced temperature will slow down your circulation, and therefore, decrease the speed at which white blood cells can get to infected areas. While being warm is very important, you should also combine that with plenty of rest in order to conserve energy.

Get treatment as soon as possible. As soon as you think that you are coming down with the flu, make it your business to get tested. Waiting until you are sure that you have the flu makes little sense. By the time you are sure, the virus has already gotten a good 2 – 3 days jump start on any medication you might be given.

Make a few lifestyle changes. While you are trying to keep warm and resting in bed, you have the perfect opportunity to stop drinking alcohol or stop smoking. Both alcohol and nicotine wreak havoc on the entire body. Weakening the immune system with these drugs leaves you more vulnerable to the attacks of the flu virus and many other diseases.

Take your vitamins regularly. Vitamin C is a wonderful supplement for the immune system. Even if you do not have the flu, taking Vitamin C each day will improve your body’s capacity to fight infection, and put you on the road to recovery when necessary.

Drink plenty of fluids. This allows your body to do a better job of disposing of toxins. It also facilitates a number of your bodily processes. When you have a fever, the body becomes dehydrated. Water, fruit juices, and soup are all great candidates to help your body recover. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, sip water regularly.

Take paracetamol aspirin, or ibuprofen. These drugs will relieve your headaches and any inflammations, aches, and pains. Decongestants, cough medicines, gargles, and lozenges can all serve to alleviate respiratory symptoms.

By using these common sense methods to beat the flu, you should be able to get up and running before you know it. Last but not least, perhaps the most sensible “cures” for the flu are the ones that happen before you come in contact with the virus. Washing you hands and being mindful of what touches the mucus membranes of your eyes, nose, and mouth can go a long way towards preventing the flu virus from getting into your body. Yearly vaccination is also a very important weapon in the arsenal against the flu. Not only may you have reduced symptoms, you may not get sick at all!

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site.

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Tags: alcohol, bed rest, fatigue, Flu, immune system, nicotine

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There are a variety of illnesses a person can come down with throughout the year. One of the most miserable, and unfortunately most common is the flu. While the flu may keep you in bed for a few days, that does not mean you are helpless when it comes to alleviating the symptoms. There are a few different treatments available. Some prefer to go to their doctor and get tested to make sure they have the flu, and then take prescription medications. Others seem to prefer more holistic or self-healing methods, and herbal treatments. There are a number of herbal remedies that can help with almost all aspects of the flu.

Echinacea is a very popular herbal treatment. This herbal remedy is famous for stimulating the immune system. As one may expect, anything that boosts the immune system’s ability to react and respond faster is bound to lead to a faster, less eventful recovery. For many people, Echinacea also reduces the severity of certain flu-related symptoms. Any reduction in symptoms like congestion, fever, and muscle pain will make getting well much easier. Echinacea comes in different varieties such as liquid, powder, and as a dried root. This type of herb is best used only for short-term duration.

Ginger is another type of herb which may prove useful in treating flu symptoms. This herb has been shown to reduce fever and pain. It also helps many individuals to relax. Getting plenty of rest is vital to a speedy recovery from the flu. The antiviral properties of ginger make it very useful for getting rid of the flu. Ginger also has a delightful, spicy clean taste and scent. No matter how sick you are feeling, the aroma of ginger works its way in your system to help you feel better.

Elderberry extract is another type of herbal treatment which individuals have used to combat flu symptoms. This herb has been shown to reduce the severity of several flu symptoms quickly and efficiently. Research done during the 1999 – 2000 flu season in Norway revealed patients recovering, on average, four days faster than people that did not take elderberry extract. According to some studies, Elderberry works its charm by weakening the virus’s ability to pierce cell membranes. This herb has been known to work well against influenza strains A and B, as well as several other virii.

No anti-viral arsenal could possibly be complete without Garlic. This pungent bulb has been known for centuries to cure everything from warts to witchcraft. Not surprisingly, when microbes were discovered, the role of Garlic in combating viruses and bacteria received some attention. In modern times, Garlic is still making headlines. One of the strongest antimicrobial chemicals found in garlic is called Allicin. As bacteria become resistant to our most powerful antibiotics, this natural chemical is proving to vanquish even the most stubborn mutants. Furthermore, raw garlic can prevent all sorts of harmful bacteria from colonizing the digestive tract. Garlic is considered one of the safest herbs, and can be found in almost all kitchens, individuals taking medications or about to undergo surgery should check with their doctors before taking. While chewing on a fresh clove of garlic is likely to keep just about anything away, the liquid gel form works just as well on many ailments. Some have stated that fresh garlic may be the better variety to take in order to combat the flu. Taking this natural antibiotic is almost certain to yield results for the person suffering with a bout of the flu.

Some people may find that they obtain the best results when combining certain herbs. Teas which contain various herbs can be quite helpful in getting rid of the flu. Peppermint and rosemary combined together in a single tea may have forceful effect on flu symptoms. Like ginger, their aromatic flavor and strong aroma have a way of knocking through congestion and opening up the air passages.

In some cases, herbal treatments have centuries of tradition to attest to their efficacy. Modern scientists are also finding the validation for these traditions in the form of reproducible and predictable results in their laboratories. For someone suffering from the flu, herbal supplements may provide fewer side effects, and make the patient feel more comfortable. These items may provide a natural way to fight the influenza virus, while making the symptoms less severe overall. Nevertheless, it is always important to read about the herbs beforehand to determine which ones to take. It is also important to consult with a doctor to make sure the herbs will not interfere or react with other medications.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Herbal Remedies.

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Tags: echinacea, Flu, ginger, Herbal Remedies, immune system

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Stress related back pain is one of the most common health related complaints today. But what if anything can be done about it? If you can find an effective way of relieving your stress, often the symptoms will disappear as well. For this purpose, we are going to look at managing back pain caused by stress.

Stress is a silent killer. In fact, stress is so commonplace in our society today, that associated behaviors such as road rage are becoming an acceptable part of everyday life. Research has shown that high stress levels not only increase negative hormone levels, the ones responsible for inhibiting sickness and disease, but it also suppresses the immune system. But in such a fast paced society, how do we relieve stress? I guess I should make the point that you can’t necessarily get rid of stress. You can, on the other hand manage it quite effectively before it gets out of control.

Complimentary therapies such as reflexology have shown very positive results in relieving the stress associated with back pain. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology enhances blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. And, not only is this form of self-help therapy one of the most relaxing therapies available and provides immediate relief in many cases; it is free of charge and extremely convenient if you learn to do it yourself.

Outside of using it for stress relieving purposes, reflexology is also a beneficial tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems, fibromyalgia; depression and even arthritis report significantly improved conditions as a result of the treatment.

Reflexology is fairly simple to perform and even simpler to incorporate into your daily routine, which is important since stress is a part of everyday life. It is recommended that you use it both on yourself and with members of your family. Making it a family affair can be very beneficial. If everyone feels less stress, there will be more harmony in the family. There are many online guides and diagrams that you can study and practice with. Or, if you prefer to have the information at your fingertips, there are many great books you can even get at your local library that will walk you through the process of reflexology treatment. I would also recommend going to a reflexologist at least once to get a professional treatment. This way you will feel the techniques first hand. It tends to make learning easier.

In the fast paced society that we live in today, I highly recommend that you take some time out of each day for yourself. We always seem to be on the go and cut ourselves short of the time we need to recoup. Set aside a specific time early in the morning or before you go to bed and practice deep breathing and reflexology techniques. Before long you will notice a big difference in how you see life and that you are able to manage the stress of your day so much better.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Reflexology.

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Tags: Depression, Fertility, fibromyalgia, immune system, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, toxins

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Excessive stress and depression can shorten your life span and drastically reduce your quality of life. Stress can speed up the aging process making it harder for your body to fight off illness and serious disease. Stress and depression affect your immune system and you may find you have more frequent colds, stomach problems, and other stress related problems. You can age gracefully and maintain better health if you take steps to ward off depression and stress.

What are some fun and helpful ways of relieving stress and depression? There are a few tips that may help you make the most of every day.

• Eat healthy! This means stay away from refined sugar, empty calorie snack foods, and fatty meats. There are many choices of snacks and foods that will keep your body satisfied and feeling full. Eating chocolate or sugar products will not help depression. These foods may increase your symptoms of stress and depression. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. You could be surprised how much better you will feel by removing processed sugars from your diet!

• Exercise regularly. Physical exercise is important for many reasons. It keeps your body from growing stiff, decreases stress, and allows you to take in oxygen that is needed for the body to work properly. Start out walking or doing low impact exercises or yoga. Walk around the block, listen to the sounds of nature and let your mind go blank. If you are just beginning an exercise program, check with your doctor before you begin. A little exercise is better than no exercise at all.

• Adopt a pet. It is well-known that a family pet will help relieve stress and anxiety. Nursing homes are allowing pets to be brought in because they have such a positive benefit on residents. Many senior communities and assisted living facilities allow pets and even encourage them. Play with your pet, stroke it or pet it, you will feel the tension slip away.

• Take time to relax. You may feel you always have to be on the go, or doing something. You don’t! Take the time to relax, drink a cup of tea or coffee and sit in a sunny room. Weather is gloomy? Watch the ever-changing patterns in the sky, the trees as they bend in the wind, and listen to the soothing sound of rain on the roof.

Does gloomy weather bring you down? Work each day to make yourself enjoy the day. Find something you are thankful for, call a friend, watch a favorite movie on TV, or take the time to engage in your favorite hobby or pastime.

Stress and depression will take a toll on your body both physically and emotionally. Think positive and make each day important. Enjoy your family, hold and look into the eyes of a baby, and treat yourself to a bubble bath or special outing. You will find you are aging in a healthy way and could give you a longer lifespan.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Healthy Retirment.

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Tags: coffee, Depression, exercise, fruits and vegetables, healthy retirment, immune system, stress, stress and anxiety, whole grains

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When the digestive system experiences imbalances, the whole body gets thrown for a loop. Many diseases and even common problems such as constipation and gas result from having digestive system malfunctions.

So, what causes digestive malfunction and imbalance? There are many causes, however stress is the most common and most destructive. Stress targets the digestive system and if it gets a hold there, the rest of the body is in for a rough ride. Most diseases start from a digestive system problem, which is something that has been studied and proven true. To cure the diseases of today, we must dig into the digestive system and fix the problem at the source.

One of the best alternative treatment options for colon health and many other problems is reflexology. Reflexology is simply the practice of strategically applying pressure to areas of the reflexes of feet and hands as they correspond with specific body organs.

Just like the teeth, the feet and hands are a map to the health of our entire body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, we can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding areas of the body. Furthermore, reflexology stimulates the lymphatic system and encourages the release of endorphins, the natural feel good hormones that are well documented in relieving the effects of stress.

Reflexology is meant to bring your body to a state of well-being. Only in this state is your body able to heal itself. When your body is full of toxins, your immune system is severely compromised, making you much more likely to succumb to sickness. Reflexology is a beneficial tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies, chronic sinus problems, acid reflux, migraines, PMS, menopause, insomnia, fertility problems, fibromyalgia, depression and even arthritis report significantly improved conditions as a result of the treatment.

If you don’t want to go to a trained reflexologist, but still want to experience the benefits the detox can bring, try the herbal foot detox patches. They are quite affordable and very effective. By simply applying them to your feet at night before bed, you will help detoxify all of your organs at the same time. Not only are well-known healing oils and tree extracts used in these patches, but also there are no side effects, making them a very popular choice.

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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 Reflexology.

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Tags: colon health, constipation, Depression, fertility problems, fibromyalgia, immune system, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, toxins

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Here in the U.S., we eat what tastes good. School kids going through the school lunch line make food choices based on if the food tastes good or not. Even adults will choose fast food over more nutritious home cooked meals occasionally based on taste. Who wouldn’t want cake or candy over vegetables?

The Chinese view food very differently from those in the U.S. They know that food can have a beneficial healing affect on their bodies by strengthening the immune system and healing illnesses.

Individuals in the U.S. can learn about the concept of using herbs in their diet to benefit their health by reading Chinese Herbal Secrets by Stefan Chmelik. This book explains the principals of some of the more common herbs.

Chinese medicine uses herbs that most Americans would find familiar such as the following:

Sesame seeds are used in salads, as a garnish on green vegetables or on toast with black currant jam.

Walnuts in salad or used in baking can aid those with low energy, lumbar pain or weak knees.

Women’s ginseng (Dang Gui) can be added to soup for those females who suffer from poor sleep, general weakness, fainting, dizziness or tiredness. In Chinese medicine these symptoms are referred to as: deficiency of Blood and often seen in young women who are vegetarian in their dietary choices.

The Chinese call cooking with herbs, “Kitchen Medicine” and many mothers and grandmothers have been caring for the health of their family members for centuries from their kitchens.

Soups and stews are common ways of preparing Chinese herbs for medicinal purposes. These foods (meats, vegetables and Chinese “tonic” herbs) were used to increase Qi, build up the blood, moisten the Yin, warm the Yang, and in general improve the organ functions.

Not only are soups and stews used to promote good health, they are also used to help the body to recover from surgery, childbirth, illness or trauma.

Chinese women also use another way to prepare herbs in food called, Congee. This food item is served at breakfast and is a mixture of herbs and rice.

An example of a favorite soup is:

Chicken soup with the following herbs: astragalus, ginseng, cordyceps, and dates. The herbs used are Astragalus Root, Chinese Red Ginseng Root, American Ginseng Root, Cordyceps fungus, Dioscorea Yan Root, aged Tangerine Peel, Chinese Red Date, either Indian Green Cardomon pods or the Chinese Cardomon and Poria Fungus.

This soup contains the following food and other items:

Cold-pressed sesame oil
Fresh ginger root
A brown onion
Chopped vegetables (variety usually carrots, turnips, daikon)
Skinless hormone-free (very important) chicken
Dark miso paste
White pepper

There are many Websites with recipes and instructions on how to cook soups and stews.

allrecipes.com/Recipes/World-Cuisine/Asia/China/Main.aspx
www.chinesefooddiy.com
www.healthychineserecipes.com

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Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s 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.

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Tags: dang gui, immune system, sesame seeds, Traditional Chinese Medicine

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