Many people suggest vinegar as an effective solution for toenail fungus treatment. However the question that needs to be answered is how it could be useful for treating the toenail fungus. Of course there are many other ways for treating the toenail fungus including allopathic, homeopathic, and home medicines. However, till date the vinegar continues to be one of the most trusted solutions for healing toenail fungus infections.
Types of vinegar and their effects
Various types of vinegar are used as remedies for toenail fungus infections. Different types of vinegar includes common white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and red vinegar. In any case, vinegar constitutes the cheapest and most easily available treatment for toenail fungus infections. It not only prevents the fungal infections but also stops them from spreading further in the most effective manner. Some of the forms of vinegar that are used for the purpose include malt, wine, cane, raising, coconut, rice, apple cider, beer, and honey vinegar etc.
How fungus works
When fungus affects any part of your body, especially the toenails or fingernails, it changes the PH value of your skin. The skin becomes alkaline and the inner tissues of the nail are adversely affected because of the change in PH. The surrounding cuticles are affected by alkaline and they cause irritation in your skin. Sometimes the irritation is in the form of itches and some times you could suffer a little initial pain.
Vinegar affects
Vinegar contains acidic elements and it helps in relieving the itches and pains. This acidic nature of vinegar is also one of the best solutions for combating the fungus affects. Microorganism that causes fungus will not survive in acidic environments. Since vinegar contains acid it provides effective prevention against the fungus attacks. That is why vinegar is widely used for fungus treatment by the naturopath, cosmetologists and those who practice alternate medicinal treatments. Vinegar has been used for fungus treatments and various other ailments since the ancient ages. Chinese people used it to prevent the spread of virus. In ancient Greece also it was commonly used in the treatment for toenail infection. Apple cider vinegar is also very useful in treating fungus and it is very popular nowadays.
Why use vinegar?
Many reasons can be extended in support of vinegar use for combating the toenail fungus or any such affects. One of them is, vinegar is easy to get item and it is easier to apply. You neither require any assistance nor any expert services for using vinegar on the affected toenail. Vinegar does not have any harmful side affects like the regular medications or many other treatments used as remedial measures for fungus affects. You have to dry out your toenails and this should be done as soon as possible after the treatment with vinegar. This is the only precaution you need to take after applying vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can also reduce inflammation that might have occurred due to the toenail fungus affects. It can also work very well when combined with hydrogen peroxide or H2O2.
It is better
Experts have the common view that, using vinegar directly on the base of your affected nail twice a day will be even better than soaking your feet. Vinegar remains in place quite long enough to be effective. Even two drops of vinegar regularly applied could be very good for curing toenail fungus. You must however remember that early treatment is the best treatment and delay could cause problems and health hazards.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
ARTHRITIS
Introduction
One of the most commonly misunderstood conditions among people is arthritis..Often the word, “arthritis,” brings to mind a future that includes crippled and twisted joints. However “arthritis” is an all-inclusive word that encompasses many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will restrict this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care
Osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD) are the labels for the most common form of arthritis, which is also called, spondylosis, if it occurs in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the deterioration of the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint takes place when joint cartilage is damaged and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is ordinarily protected by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are more commonly called bone spurs. These spurs can create painful irritation to other tissues surrounding the joint, thus complicating the already distressing condition.
The most common areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, principally in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, the hips and the fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to influence both the onset and severity of DJD.
The symptoms of DJD always involve some degree of pain and/or stiffness in the body part involved. As the condition progresses there can be loss of mobility, particularly when weight-bearing joints such as hips or knees are involved. As a last resort joints can be surgically replaced with synthetic devices. This should be done only in severe cases where the joint is measurably worn and movement is unattainable without severe pain.
Prevention is always the best option, beginning at an early age.
* Making sure that all injuries to joints are properly treated will help to avoid future problems.
* People involved in occupations that necessitate standing or walking should wear proper shoes that offer good support and shock absorption.
* Weight loss through proper diet will help to decrease stress on weight-bearing body joints.
* Care should be taken to protect knees from pain aad strain when kneeling on hard surfaces.
* The natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provided by fruits and vegetables are vital for healthy joints and a healthy body.
Recently there have been some studies that reveal that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and may actually help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over an extended period and does not work in all conditions.
Chiropractic adjustments are not only sound, but an effectual treatment for arthritis, and can assist in restoring proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your Chicago chiropractor has many of years of experience in helping people with arthritis pain. In addition, chiropractic modalities such as joint mobilization, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, massage and electro-therapy may be used to aid in the treatment of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally, a brace is necessary to support the joint and relieve pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.
Gout
Gouty arthritis is produced by increased levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by acute pain and swelling. Most people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that must be avoided have a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Those with this condition cannot effectively metabolize uric acid, thus the accumulation in the bloodstream and the subsequent joint problems. The foods most connected with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is systemic in nature and thought to be created by immune system dysfunction. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is generally associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Additional symptoms can include general malaise and fatigue, and in its more advanced stages other systems of the body may be affected. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through specific blood tests. Though, currently, there is no cure, in addition to medication and vitamin and diet therapy, treatment should include chiropractic manipulations to mobilize joints and help to relieve the pain and stiffness accompanying this disease. Additional modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy, and massage may also be beneficial. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to assisting people in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis
One of the most commonly misunderstood conditions among people is arthritis..Often the word, “arthritis,” brings to mind a future that includes crippled and twisted joints. However “arthritis” is an all-inclusive word that encompasses many different conditions from the benign to the severe. For our purposes we will restrict this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care
Osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, or degenerative joint disease (DJD) are the labels for the most common form of arthritis, which is also called, spondylosis, if it occurs in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the deterioration of the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint takes place when joint cartilage is damaged and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is ordinarily protected by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are more commonly called bone spurs. These spurs can create painful irritation to other tissues surrounding the joint, thus complicating the already distressing condition.
The most common areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, principally in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, the hips and the fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to influence both the onset and severity of DJD.
The symptoms of DJD always involve some degree of pain and/or stiffness in the body part involved. As the condition progresses there can be loss of mobility, particularly when weight-bearing joints such as hips or knees are involved. As a last resort joints can be surgically replaced with synthetic devices. This should be done only in severe cases where the joint is measurably worn and movement is unattainable without severe pain.
Prevention is always the best option, beginning at an early age.
* Making sure that all injuries to joints are properly treated will help to avoid future problems.
* People involved in occupations that necessitate standing or walking should wear proper shoes that offer good support and shock absorption.
* Weight loss through proper diet will help to decrease stress on weight-bearing body joints.
* Care should be taken to protect knees from pain aad strain when kneeling on hard surfaces.
* The natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provided by fruits and vegetables are vital for healthy joints and a healthy body.
Recently there have been some studies that reveal that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and may actually help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over an extended period and does not work in all conditions.
Chiropractic adjustments are not only sound, but an effectual treatment for arthritis, and can assist in restoring proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your Chicago chiropractor has many of years of experience in helping people with arthritis pain. In addition, chiropractic modalities such as joint mobilization, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, massage and electro-therapy may be used to aid in the treatment of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally, a brace is necessary to support the joint and relieve pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.
Gout
Gouty arthritis is produced by increased levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by acute pain and swelling. Most people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are more often than not brought on by binge eating of inflammatory foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that must be avoided have a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Those with this condition cannot effectively metabolize uric acid, thus the accumulation in the bloodstream and the subsequent joint problems. The foods most connected with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is systemic in nature and thought to be created by immune system dysfunction. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is generally associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Additional symptoms can include general malaise and fatigue, and in its more advanced stages other systems of the body may be affected. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through specific blood tests. Though, currently, there is no cure, in addition to medication and vitamin and diet therapy, treatment should include chiropractic manipulations to mobilize joints and help to relieve the pain and stiffness accompanying this disease. Additional modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy, and massage may also be beneficial. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to assisting people in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis
Thursday, May 28, 2009
NATURE CURE
Nature cure is a constructive method of treatment which aims at removing the basic cause of
disease through the rational use of the elements freely available in nature. It is not only a system
of healing, but also a way of life, in tune with the internal vital forces or natural elements
comprising the human body. It is a complete revolution in the art and science of living.
Although the term ‘ naturopathy’ is of relatively recent origin, the philosophical basis and several
of the methods of nature cure treatments are ancient. It was practised in ancient Egypt, Greece
and Rome. Hippocrates, the father of medicine ( 460-357 B.C.) strongly advocated it. India, it
appears, was much further advanced in older days in natural healing system than other
countries of the world. There are references in India’s ancient sacred books about the extensive
use of nature’s excellent healing agents such as air, earth, water and sun. The Great Baths of
the Indus Valley civilisation as discovered at Mohenjodaro in old Sind testifies to the use of water
for curative purposes in ancient India.
The modern methods of nature cure originated in Germany in 1822, when Vincent Priessnitz
established the first hydropathic establishment there. With his great success in water cure, the
idea of drugless healing spread throughout the civilised world and many medical practitioners
throughout the civilised world and many medical practitioners from America and other countries
became his enthusiastic students and disciples. These students subsequently enlarged and
developed the various methods of natural healing in their own way. The whole mass of
knowledge was later collected under one name, Naturopathy. The credit for the name
Naturopathy goes to Dr. Benedict Lust ( 1872 - 1945), and hence he is called the Father of
Naturopathy.
Nature cure is based on the realisation that man is born healthy and strong and that he can stay
as such as living in accordance with the laws of nature. Even if born with some inherited
affliction, the individual can eliminate it by putting to the best use the natural agents of healing.
Fresh air, sunshine, a proper diet, exercise, scientific relaxation, constructive thinking and the
right mental attitude, along with prayer and meditation all play their part in keeping a sound mind
in a sound body.
Nature cure believes that disease is an abnormal condition of the body resulting from the
violation of the natural laws. Every such violation has repercussions on the human system in the
shape of lowered vitality, irregularities of the blood and lymph and the accumulation of waste
matter and toxins. Thus, through a faulty diet it is not the digestive system alone which is
adversely affected. When toxins accumulate, other organs such as the bowels, kidneys, skin and
lungs are overworked and cannot get rid of these harmful substances as quickly as they are
produced.
Besides this, mental and emotional disturbances cause imbalances of the vital electric field
within which cell metabolism takes place, producing toxins. When the soil of this electric filed is
undisturbed, disease-causing germs can live in it without multiplying or producing toxins. It is
only when it is disturbed or when the blood is polluted with toxic waste that the germs multiply
and become harmful.
Basic Principles
The whole philosophy and practice of nature cure is built on three basic principles. These
principles are based on the conclusions reached from over a century of effective naturopathic
treatment of diseases in Germany, America and Great Britain. They have been tested and
proved over and over again by the results obtained
The first and most basic principle of nature cure is that all forms of disease are due to the same
cause, namely, the accumulations of waste materials and bodily refuse in the system. These
waste materials in the healthy individual are removed from the system through the organs of
elimination. But in the diseased person, they are steadily piling up in the body through years of
faulty habits of living such as wrong feeding, improper care of the body and habits contributing to
enervation and nervous exhaustion such as worry, overwork and excesses of all kinds. It follows
from this basic principle that the only way to cure disease is to employ methods which will
enable the system to throw off these toxic accumulations. All natural treatments are actually
directed towards this end.
The second basic principle of nature cure is that all acute diseases such as fevers, colds,
inflammations, digestive disturbances and skin eruptions are nothing more than self-initiated
efforts on the part of the body to throw off the accumulated waste materials and that all chronic
diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, rheumatism, asthma, kidney disorders, are the results
of continued suppression of the acute diseases through harmful methods such as drugs,
vaccines, narcotics and gland extracts.
The third principle of nature cure is that the body contains an eleborate healing mechanism
which has the power to bring about a return to normal condition of health, provided right
methods are employed to enable it to do so. In other words, the power to cure disease lies within
the body itself and not in the hands of the doctor.
Nature Cure vs Modern System
The modern medical system treats the symptoms and suppresses the disease but does little to
ascertain the real cause. Toxic drugs which may suppress or relieve some ailments usually have
harmful side-effects. Drugs usually hinder the self-healing efforts of the body and make recovery
more difficult. According to the late Sir William Osler, an eminent physician and surgeon, when
drugs are used, the patient has to recover twice - once from the illness, and once from the drug.
Drugs cannot cure diseases; disease continues. It is only its pattern that changes. Drugs also
produce dietary deficiencies by destroying nutrients, using them up, and preventing their
absorption. Moreover, the toxicity they produce occurs at a time when the body is least capable
of coping with it. The power to restore health thus lies not in drugs,but in nature.
The approach of modern system is more on combative lines after the disease has set in,
whereas nature cure system lays greater emphasis on preventive method and adopts measures
to attain and maintain health and prevent disease. The modern medical system treats each
disease as a separate entity, requiring specific drug for its cure, whereas the nature cure system
treats the organism as a whole and seeks to restore harmony to the whole of the patient’s being.
Methods of Nature Cure
The nature cure system aims at the readjustment of the human system from abnormal to normal
conditions and functions, and adopts methods of cure which are in conformity with the
constructive principles of nature. Such methods remove from the system the accumulation of
toxic matter and poisons without in any way injuring the vital organs of the body. They also
stimulate the organs of elimination and purification to better functioning.
To cure disease, the first and foremost requirement is to regulate the diet. To get rid of
accumulated toxins and restore the equilibrium of the system, it is desirable to completely
exclude acid-forming foods, including proteins, starches and fats, for a week or more and to
confine the diet to fresh fruits which will disinfect the stomach and alimentary canal. If the body is
overloaded with morbid matter, as in acute disease, a complete fast for a few days may be
necessary for the elimination of toxins. Fruit juice may, however, be taken during a fast. A simple
rule is : do not eat when you are sick, stick to a light diet of fresh fruits. Wait for the return of the
usual healthy appetite. Loss of appetite is Nature’s warning that no burden should be placed on
the digestive organs. Alkaline foods such as raw vegetables and sprouted whole grain cereals
may be added after a week of a fruits-only diet.
Another important factor in the cure of diseases by natural methods is to stimulate the vitality of
the body. This can be achieved by using water in various ways and at varying temperatures in
the form of packs or baths. The application of cold water, especially to the abdomen, the seat of
most diseases, and to the sexual organs, through a cold sitting ( hip) bath immediately lowers
body heat and stimulates the nervous system. In the form of wet packs, hydrotherapy offers a
simple natural method of abating fevers and reducing pain and inflammation without any harmful
side-effects. Warm water applications, on the other hand, are relaxing.
Other natural methods useful in the cure of diseases are air and sunbaths, exercise and
massage. Air and sunbaths revive dead skin and help maintain it in a normal condition. Exercise,
especially yogic asanas,promotes inner health and harmony and helps eliminate all tension :
physical, mental and emotional. Massage tones up the nervous system and quickens blood
circulation and the metabolic process.
Thus a well-balanced diet, sufficient physical exercise, the observation of the other laws of
well-being such as fresh air, plenty of sunlight, pure drinking water,scrupulous cleanliness,
adequate rest and right mental attitude can ensure proper health and prevent disease.
disease through the rational use of the elements freely available in nature. It is not only a system
of healing, but also a way of life, in tune with the internal vital forces or natural elements
comprising the human body. It is a complete revolution in the art and science of living.
Although the term ‘ naturopathy’ is of relatively recent origin, the philosophical basis and several
of the methods of nature cure treatments are ancient. It was practised in ancient Egypt, Greece
and Rome. Hippocrates, the father of medicine ( 460-357 B.C.) strongly advocated it. India, it
appears, was much further advanced in older days in natural healing system than other
countries of the world. There are references in India’s ancient sacred books about the extensive
use of nature’s excellent healing agents such as air, earth, water and sun. The Great Baths of
the Indus Valley civilisation as discovered at Mohenjodaro in old Sind testifies to the use of water
for curative purposes in ancient India.
The modern methods of nature cure originated in Germany in 1822, when Vincent Priessnitz
established the first hydropathic establishment there. With his great success in water cure, the
idea of drugless healing spread throughout the civilised world and many medical practitioners
throughout the civilised world and many medical practitioners from America and other countries
became his enthusiastic students and disciples. These students subsequently enlarged and
developed the various methods of natural healing in their own way. The whole mass of
knowledge was later collected under one name, Naturopathy. The credit for the name
Naturopathy goes to Dr. Benedict Lust ( 1872 - 1945), and hence he is called the Father of
Naturopathy.
Nature cure is based on the realisation that man is born healthy and strong and that he can stay
as such as living in accordance with the laws of nature. Even if born with some inherited
affliction, the individual can eliminate it by putting to the best use the natural agents of healing.
Fresh air, sunshine, a proper diet, exercise, scientific relaxation, constructive thinking and the
right mental attitude, along with prayer and meditation all play their part in keeping a sound mind
in a sound body.
Nature cure believes that disease is an abnormal condition of the body resulting from the
violation of the natural laws. Every such violation has repercussions on the human system in the
shape of lowered vitality, irregularities of the blood and lymph and the accumulation of waste
matter and toxins. Thus, through a faulty diet it is not the digestive system alone which is
adversely affected. When toxins accumulate, other organs such as the bowels, kidneys, skin and
lungs are overworked and cannot get rid of these harmful substances as quickly as they are
produced.
Besides this, mental and emotional disturbances cause imbalances of the vital electric field
within which cell metabolism takes place, producing toxins. When the soil of this electric filed is
undisturbed, disease-causing germs can live in it without multiplying or producing toxins. It is
only when it is disturbed or when the blood is polluted with toxic waste that the germs multiply
and become harmful.
Basic Principles
The whole philosophy and practice of nature cure is built on three basic principles. These
principles are based on the conclusions reached from over a century of effective naturopathic
treatment of diseases in Germany, America and Great Britain. They have been tested and
proved over and over again by the results obtained
The first and most basic principle of nature cure is that all forms of disease are due to the same
cause, namely, the accumulations of waste materials and bodily refuse in the system. These
waste materials in the healthy individual are removed from the system through the organs of
elimination. But in the diseased person, they are steadily piling up in the body through years of
faulty habits of living such as wrong feeding, improper care of the body and habits contributing to
enervation and nervous exhaustion such as worry, overwork and excesses of all kinds. It follows
from this basic principle that the only way to cure disease is to employ methods which will
enable the system to throw off these toxic accumulations. All natural treatments are actually
directed towards this end.
The second basic principle of nature cure is that all acute diseases such as fevers, colds,
inflammations, digestive disturbances and skin eruptions are nothing more than self-initiated
efforts on the part of the body to throw off the accumulated waste materials and that all chronic
diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, rheumatism, asthma, kidney disorders, are the results
of continued suppression of the acute diseases through harmful methods such as drugs,
vaccines, narcotics and gland extracts.
The third principle of nature cure is that the body contains an eleborate healing mechanism
which has the power to bring about a return to normal condition of health, provided right
methods are employed to enable it to do so. In other words, the power to cure disease lies within
the body itself and not in the hands of the doctor.
Nature Cure vs Modern System
The modern medical system treats the symptoms and suppresses the disease but does little to
ascertain the real cause. Toxic drugs which may suppress or relieve some ailments usually have
harmful side-effects. Drugs usually hinder the self-healing efforts of the body and make recovery
more difficult. According to the late Sir William Osler, an eminent physician and surgeon, when
drugs are used, the patient has to recover twice - once from the illness, and once from the drug.
Drugs cannot cure diseases; disease continues. It is only its pattern that changes. Drugs also
produce dietary deficiencies by destroying nutrients, using them up, and preventing their
absorption. Moreover, the toxicity they produce occurs at a time when the body is least capable
of coping with it. The power to restore health thus lies not in drugs,but in nature.
The approach of modern system is more on combative lines after the disease has set in,
whereas nature cure system lays greater emphasis on preventive method and adopts measures
to attain and maintain health and prevent disease. The modern medical system treats each
disease as a separate entity, requiring specific drug for its cure, whereas the nature cure system
treats the organism as a whole and seeks to restore harmony to the whole of the patient’s being.
Methods of Nature Cure
The nature cure system aims at the readjustment of the human system from abnormal to normal
conditions and functions, and adopts methods of cure which are in conformity with the
constructive principles of nature. Such methods remove from the system the accumulation of
toxic matter and poisons without in any way injuring the vital organs of the body. They also
stimulate the organs of elimination and purification to better functioning.
To cure disease, the first and foremost requirement is to regulate the diet. To get rid of
accumulated toxins and restore the equilibrium of the system, it is desirable to completely
exclude acid-forming foods, including proteins, starches and fats, for a week or more and to
confine the diet to fresh fruits which will disinfect the stomach and alimentary canal. If the body is
overloaded with morbid matter, as in acute disease, a complete fast for a few days may be
necessary for the elimination of toxins. Fruit juice may, however, be taken during a fast. A simple
rule is : do not eat when you are sick, stick to a light diet of fresh fruits. Wait for the return of the
usual healthy appetite. Loss of appetite is Nature’s warning that no burden should be placed on
the digestive organs. Alkaline foods such as raw vegetables and sprouted whole grain cereals
may be added after a week of a fruits-only diet.
Another important factor in the cure of diseases by natural methods is to stimulate the vitality of
the body. This can be achieved by using water in various ways and at varying temperatures in
the form of packs or baths. The application of cold water, especially to the abdomen, the seat of
most diseases, and to the sexual organs, through a cold sitting ( hip) bath immediately lowers
body heat and stimulates the nervous system. In the form of wet packs, hydrotherapy offers a
simple natural method of abating fevers and reducing pain and inflammation without any harmful
side-effects. Warm water applications, on the other hand, are relaxing.
Other natural methods useful in the cure of diseases are air and sunbaths, exercise and
massage. Air and sunbaths revive dead skin and help maintain it in a normal condition. Exercise,
especially yogic asanas,promotes inner health and harmony and helps eliminate all tension :
physical, mental and emotional. Massage tones up the nervous system and quickens blood
circulation and the metabolic process.
Thus a well-balanced diet, sufficient physical exercise, the observation of the other laws of
well-being such as fresh air, plenty of sunlight, pure drinking water,scrupulous cleanliness,
adequate rest and right mental attitude can ensure proper health and prevent disease.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
NIPER EXAM PATTERN & SYLLABUS
Entrance pattern:
Well entrance consists of 200 questions in 2 hours. (Please check it in Brochure). Well questions will be very easy so no need to go in depth of the topic. Basic concepts based questions are asked. M. Pharma branches and M.B.A. has a common entrance paper. So read some general knowledge aspects also…………….
This syllabus is just like GATE entrance but more specific in Basic Chemistry instead of medicinal chemistry.
Specialization subjects: What to study?
Medicinal chemistry and Bulk Drugs (Pharmaceutical Technology)
IUPAC nomenclature, R and S nomenclature, E and Z isomerism, atropiisomerism, Conformations
Hybridization, aromaticity, Huckel’s rule reaction mechanisms- Electrophilic, Nucleophilic, SN1, SN2, SNi, Elimination E1 E2 etc.
Ester hydrolysis, Aac1 Aac2……all eight mechanisms (Jerry march) Markovnikoves rule, Bredts rule, Stereoselectivity, stereospecificity, regioselectivity, chemoselectivity, chirality, stereochemistry, conformations, rearrangements, acids and bases.
Imine-enamine Tautomerism, keto-enol tautomerism, pericyclic reactions, racemic mixture, resolution methods.
Amino acids proteins, various methods for amino acid detection, Ninhydrin test, peptide sequencing, structures of amino acids, essential and nonessential amino acids,
Introduction to thermal methods of analysis like, TGA, DSC, DTA etc.
Carbohydrates classification, osazone test, mutarotation, etc,
Various Heterocycles, Heterocycle synthesis, reactions.
Introduction to Redox reactions.
Spectroscopy: (basics specially): Very very IMP topic. NMR, and C-NMR ranges from Morrison & Boyd or Pavia Mass -Basic concepts about various peaks M+1, molecular ion, base peak etc. (Silverstein) IR - Frequencies of various groups specially carbonyls. UV
Chromatography: Details of every chromatographic method.
Reaction kinetics, first second third and pseudo first order reactions, radio labeling for determination of mechanism.
Common condensation reactions like Aldol, Claisen Perkin, Dickmann, Darzen etc.
Other reactions like Cannizarro’s reaction, Prins reaction, especially reactions of carbonyl compounds.
References:
1. Jerry March
2. Morrison and Boyd (ESPECIALLY Peptide and Carbohydrate chemistry)
3. I. L. Finar Vol-I and Vol-II (Heterocyclic chemistry and organic synthesis)
4. Eliel
Natural Products:
In natural products more stress should be given on phytochemistry part rather than biological aspects.
Methods of extraction, isolation and characterization of natural products. Various separation techniques used for isolation of natural products.
Biosynthetic pathways.
Primary metabolites, their examples.
Secondary metabolites, various classes of secondary metabolites (e.g. Alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, lignans, saponins, lipids, flavonoids, coumarins, anthocyanidines etc.). Here most imp. Part is chemistry of these classes.
Important therapeutic classes: antidiabetics, hepatoprotectives, immmunomodulators, neutraceuticals, natural products for gynecological disorders, anti-cancer, anti-viral (mainly anti-HIV), adaptogens etc.
Dietary antioxidants, Marine natural products, Plant growth regulators.
Spectroscopy: Basic concepts of UV, NMR, IR and Mass spectroscopy. Give more stress on IR and NMR.
Stereochemistry: Basic concepts.
Fischer, sawhorse and newmon projection formulaes.
Biological sources of important classes of natural products. (Selected ones only)
Standardization of natural products.
What is difference between natural products and pharmacognosy?
References:
1. For various therapeutic classes: Trease and Evans
2. For spectroscopy: Silverstein, Pavia, Kemp.
3. For stereochemistry: I.L. Finar vol-II
Pharmacology and toxicology:
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacological effect, desired, undesired, toxic, adverse effects.
Bioavailability, bioequivalence, various factors of ADME. (From Bramhankar)
Drug metabolism: various pathways and other details.
Drug interactions, agonist, antagonist, partial agonist, protein binding, drug distribution, distribution volume, excretion pathways etc.
Pharmacological screening: general principles, various screening models, screening methodologies (in vitro and in vivo tests).
Mechanism of drug action, drug-receptor interaction.
Various adrenergic, cholinergic and other receptors
Detailed study of CNS pharmacology
Study of basis of threshold areas of work in NIPER in pharmacology dept. mentioned in brochure.
Diseases: study of the pharmacology of the diseases and drugs used with mode of action especially of diabetes, malaria, leishmaniasis, TB, hypertension, myocardial ischemia, inflammation, and immunomodualtion.
Chemotherapy and pathophysiology- knowledge of antibiotics, their mode of action and the microorganisms responsible for various common diseases.
Bioassay methods, various requirements. Brief knowledge of the statistical tests.
References:
1. Rang and Dale (ALL CHEMOTHERAPY CLASSES OF DRUGS. IF YOU READ THE WHOLE BOOK, then nothing else is needed)
2. F. S. K. Barar
3. Wilson and Griswold (for Mechanism)
4. Kasture (for Bioassay and Screening)
Pharmaceutics and formulation (Pharmaceuticl Technology)
Drug delivery systems (DDS): NDDS models, osmotic pumps, various release patterns eg. Controlled release, delayed release. Sustained release etc., order of release. Oral controlled DDS, factors affecting controlled release.
Carriers in DDS: polymers and their classification, types, carbohydrates, surfactants, proteins, lipids, prodrugs etc.
Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS): principles, absorption enhancers, evaluation of TDDS.
Parenterals: requirements, advantages, disadvantages, release pattern, route of drug delivery.
Drug targeting: microspheres, nano particles, liposomes, monoclonal antibodies, etc.
Preformulation detailed.
Complexation, solubilization, polymerization, viscosity measurements.
Dosage form development- stages, implications of dosage form.
Additives of formulation, types, examples, advantages, disadvantages, drug excipient interaction, incompatibility, various types of incompatibilities.
Dosage forms: solid (tablets, capsules, pills etc), liquid (emulsion, suspension etc), sterile (injectables), aerosols. Principles, advantages, disadvantages and problems.
Coating - in detail.
Packaging: materials, labeling etc. Types of containers (e.g. Tamper-proof containers)
In process controls, Product specification, documentation.
Compartmental modeling. (From Bramhankar)
Bioavailability, bioequivalence studies. Methods of improvement of oral bioavailability.
Evaluation of formulation, principles and methods of release control in oral formulations.
References:
1. Lachmann (ALL new and old techniques in Pharmaceutical Industry)
2. Alfred Martin (ALL physical chemistry BASICS)
3. Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences
4. Notes of Gudsurkar Sir (Most important)
5. Banker series.
6. other: Bramhankar, , Liberman Series
Pharmaceutical analysis:
Stability testing of pharmaceuticals, various stability tests, kinetic studies, shelf life determination, thermal stability, formulation stability.
Various analytical techniques
Tests: physical and chemical tests, limit tests, microbiological tests, biological tests, disintegration and dissolution tests.
Spectroscopic methods; UV, NMR, IR, MS, FT-IR, FT-NMR, ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance), FT-Raman- basics and applications.
Thermal techniques: DSC, DTA, TGA, etc.
Particle sizing: law of diffraction.
Electrophoresis: capillary electrophoresis.
Chromatography- detailed.
QA and QC: GLP, TQM, ISO system.
Preformulation, cyclodextrin inclusion compounds
Solubility: pH, pka, surfactant HLB values, Rheology.
Crystallinity, polymorphism, solvates and hydrates, crystal habits, porosity, surface area flow properties.
Dosage forms, Stages of dosage form development
Osmolality, osmolarity, osmotic pressure, conductivity, Preservatives, Media for bioassay.
References:
1. Willard
2. Silverstein (Mass Spectroscopy)
3. William Kemp (NMR)
4. Pavia (for spectroscopy)
5. Others like Alfred Martin, Chatwal (UV), Garry Christen (Chemical Methods)
Biotechnology:, Pharmaceutical technology biotechnology
Genetic Engg: Gene expression, mutation, replication, transcription, translation, recombination, bacteriophages.
Cloning: methods, isolation of nucleic acids, enzymes in cloning (restriction endonucleases, DNA ligase, DNA gyrase, polymerases etc...), functions of these enzymes, Pallindromes.
Fermentation: fermenters, fermentation process, its regulation, conditions, bioprocessors, various enzymes in fermentation technology. Fermentation of Antibiotics, vitamins, amino acids, hydroxy acids such as lactic acid etc. Chemical engg. aspects realated to fermentation
Gene therapy: methods and applications.
Monoclonal antibodies, insulin, interferons, enkephalins, angiotensin analogues and other peptides.
References:
1. Vyas and Dixit
2. IP Appendices
Practice of Pharmacy:
The best part for the preparation for this best reference for this would be Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences. This branch is quite new here, so till dates students of branch used to do case study of prescriptions in Fortis hospital, PGI Chandigarh and govt. college chd... This is much like pharmacology and drug-drug interactions and different interactions are emphasized. Diabetes, heart diseases are main area of study……….
Pharmacoinformatics:
Terminologies related with new emerging informatics e.g. proteomics, genomics, QSAR (2D, 3D, regression, correlation).
References:
Foye, Williams and Lemke, Medicinal chemistry, 5th/6th edition, chapter 1-6. (Computational drug design and molecular modeling).
Others:
Statistics, general mathematics and aptitude questions. Use MBA entrance test books like CET or CAT in MBA. Additionally some general awareness questions.
NIPER’s thrust areas are:
Microbial and viral diseases: Yeast, and fungi.
Parasitic and tropical diseases: Malaria, Leishmaniasis, amoebiasis, etc.
Metabolic Disorders: Diabetes
Strokes
Peptide and carbohydrate chemistry.
Genomics and proteomics: yeast and fungi
Hormonal disorders: TRH related diseases.
credit goes to:-www.niperjee.blogspot.com
Well entrance consists of 200 questions in 2 hours. (Please check it in Brochure). Well questions will be very easy so no need to go in depth of the topic. Basic concepts based questions are asked. M. Pharma branches and M.B.A. has a common entrance paper. So read some general knowledge aspects also…………….
This syllabus is just like GATE entrance but more specific in Basic Chemistry instead of medicinal chemistry.
Specialization subjects: What to study?
Medicinal chemistry and Bulk Drugs (Pharmaceutical Technology)
IUPAC nomenclature, R and S nomenclature, E and Z isomerism, atropiisomerism, Conformations
Hybridization, aromaticity, Huckel’s rule reaction mechanisms- Electrophilic, Nucleophilic, SN1, SN2, SNi, Elimination E1 E2 etc.
Ester hydrolysis, Aac1 Aac2……all eight mechanisms (Jerry march) Markovnikoves rule, Bredts rule, Stereoselectivity, stereospecificity, regioselectivity, chemoselectivity, chirality, stereochemistry, conformations, rearrangements, acids and bases.
Imine-enamine Tautomerism, keto-enol tautomerism, pericyclic reactions, racemic mixture, resolution methods.
Amino acids proteins, various methods for amino acid detection, Ninhydrin test, peptide sequencing, structures of amino acids, essential and nonessential amino acids,
Introduction to thermal methods of analysis like, TGA, DSC, DTA etc.
Carbohydrates classification, osazone test, mutarotation, etc,
Various Heterocycles, Heterocycle synthesis, reactions.
Introduction to Redox reactions.
Spectroscopy: (basics specially): Very very IMP topic. NMR, and C-NMR ranges from Morrison & Boyd or Pavia Mass -Basic concepts about various peaks M+1, molecular ion, base peak etc. (Silverstein) IR - Frequencies of various groups specially carbonyls. UV
Chromatography: Details of every chromatographic method.
Reaction kinetics, first second third and pseudo first order reactions, radio labeling for determination of mechanism.
Common condensation reactions like Aldol, Claisen Perkin, Dickmann, Darzen etc.
Other reactions like Cannizarro’s reaction, Prins reaction, especially reactions of carbonyl compounds.
References:
1. Jerry March
2. Morrison and Boyd (ESPECIALLY Peptide and Carbohydrate chemistry)
3. I. L. Finar Vol-I and Vol-II (Heterocyclic chemistry and organic synthesis)
4. Eliel
Natural Products:
In natural products more stress should be given on phytochemistry part rather than biological aspects.
Methods of extraction, isolation and characterization of natural products. Various separation techniques used for isolation of natural products.
Biosynthetic pathways.
Primary metabolites, their examples.
Secondary metabolites, various classes of secondary metabolites (e.g. Alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, lignans, saponins, lipids, flavonoids, coumarins, anthocyanidines etc.). Here most imp. Part is chemistry of these classes.
Important therapeutic classes: antidiabetics, hepatoprotectives, immmunomodulators, neutraceuticals, natural products for gynecological disorders, anti-cancer, anti-viral (mainly anti-HIV), adaptogens etc.
Dietary antioxidants, Marine natural products, Plant growth regulators.
Spectroscopy: Basic concepts of UV, NMR, IR and Mass spectroscopy. Give more stress on IR and NMR.
Stereochemistry: Basic concepts.
Fischer, sawhorse and newmon projection formulaes.
Biological sources of important classes of natural products. (Selected ones only)
Standardization of natural products.
What is difference between natural products and pharmacognosy?
References:
1. For various therapeutic classes: Trease and Evans
2. For spectroscopy: Silverstein, Pavia, Kemp.
3. For stereochemistry: I.L. Finar vol-II
Pharmacology and toxicology:
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacological effect, desired, undesired, toxic, adverse effects.
Bioavailability, bioequivalence, various factors of ADME. (From Bramhankar)
Drug metabolism: various pathways and other details.
Drug interactions, agonist, antagonist, partial agonist, protein binding, drug distribution, distribution volume, excretion pathways etc.
Pharmacological screening: general principles, various screening models, screening methodologies (in vitro and in vivo tests).
Mechanism of drug action, drug-receptor interaction.
Various adrenergic, cholinergic and other receptors
Detailed study of CNS pharmacology
Study of basis of threshold areas of work in NIPER in pharmacology dept. mentioned in brochure.
Diseases: study of the pharmacology of the diseases and drugs used with mode of action especially of diabetes, malaria, leishmaniasis, TB, hypertension, myocardial ischemia, inflammation, and immunomodualtion.
Chemotherapy and pathophysiology- knowledge of antibiotics, their mode of action and the microorganisms responsible for various common diseases.
Bioassay methods, various requirements. Brief knowledge of the statistical tests.
References:
1. Rang and Dale (ALL CHEMOTHERAPY CLASSES OF DRUGS. IF YOU READ THE WHOLE BOOK, then nothing else is needed)
2. F. S. K. Barar
3. Wilson and Griswold (for Mechanism)
4. Kasture (for Bioassay and Screening)
Pharmaceutics and formulation (Pharmaceuticl Technology)
Drug delivery systems (DDS): NDDS models, osmotic pumps, various release patterns eg. Controlled release, delayed release. Sustained release etc., order of release. Oral controlled DDS, factors affecting controlled release.
Carriers in DDS: polymers and their classification, types, carbohydrates, surfactants, proteins, lipids, prodrugs etc.
Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS): principles, absorption enhancers, evaluation of TDDS.
Parenterals: requirements, advantages, disadvantages, release pattern, route of drug delivery.
Drug targeting: microspheres, nano particles, liposomes, monoclonal antibodies, etc.
Preformulation detailed.
Complexation, solubilization, polymerization, viscosity measurements.
Dosage form development- stages, implications of dosage form.
Additives of formulation, types, examples, advantages, disadvantages, drug excipient interaction, incompatibility, various types of incompatibilities.
Dosage forms: solid (tablets, capsules, pills etc), liquid (emulsion, suspension etc), sterile (injectables), aerosols. Principles, advantages, disadvantages and problems.
Coating - in detail.
Packaging: materials, labeling etc. Types of containers (e.g. Tamper-proof containers)
In process controls, Product specification, documentation.
Compartmental modeling. (From Bramhankar)
Bioavailability, bioequivalence studies. Methods of improvement of oral bioavailability.
Evaluation of formulation, principles and methods of release control in oral formulations.
References:
1. Lachmann (ALL new and old techniques in Pharmaceutical Industry)
2. Alfred Martin (ALL physical chemistry BASICS)
3. Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences
4. Notes of Gudsurkar Sir (Most important)
5. Banker series.
6. other: Bramhankar, , Liberman Series
Pharmaceutical analysis:
Stability testing of pharmaceuticals, various stability tests, kinetic studies, shelf life determination, thermal stability, formulation stability.
Various analytical techniques
Tests: physical and chemical tests, limit tests, microbiological tests, biological tests, disintegration and dissolution tests.
Spectroscopic methods; UV, NMR, IR, MS, FT-IR, FT-NMR, ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance), FT-Raman- basics and applications.
Thermal techniques: DSC, DTA, TGA, etc.
Particle sizing: law of diffraction.
Electrophoresis: capillary electrophoresis.
Chromatography- detailed.
QA and QC: GLP, TQM, ISO system.
Preformulation, cyclodextrin inclusion compounds
Solubility: pH, pka, surfactant HLB values, Rheology.
Crystallinity, polymorphism, solvates and hydrates, crystal habits, porosity, surface area flow properties.
Dosage forms, Stages of dosage form development
Osmolality, osmolarity, osmotic pressure, conductivity, Preservatives, Media for bioassay.
References:
1. Willard
2. Silverstein (Mass Spectroscopy)
3. William Kemp (NMR)
4. Pavia (for spectroscopy)
5. Others like Alfred Martin, Chatwal (UV), Garry Christen (Chemical Methods)
Biotechnology:, Pharmaceutical technology biotechnology
Genetic Engg: Gene expression, mutation, replication, transcription, translation, recombination, bacteriophages.
Cloning: methods, isolation of nucleic acids, enzymes in cloning (restriction endonucleases, DNA ligase, DNA gyrase, polymerases etc...), functions of these enzymes, Pallindromes.
Fermentation: fermenters, fermentation process, its regulation, conditions, bioprocessors, various enzymes in fermentation technology. Fermentation of Antibiotics, vitamins, amino acids, hydroxy acids such as lactic acid etc. Chemical engg. aspects realated to fermentation
Gene therapy: methods and applications.
Monoclonal antibodies, insulin, interferons, enkephalins, angiotensin analogues and other peptides.
References:
1. Vyas and Dixit
2. IP Appendices
Practice of Pharmacy:
The best part for the preparation for this best reference for this would be Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences. This branch is quite new here, so till dates students of branch used to do case study of prescriptions in Fortis hospital, PGI Chandigarh and govt. college chd... This is much like pharmacology and drug-drug interactions and different interactions are emphasized. Diabetes, heart diseases are main area of study……….
Pharmacoinformatics:
Terminologies related with new emerging informatics e.g. proteomics, genomics, QSAR (2D, 3D, regression, correlation).
References:
Foye, Williams and Lemke, Medicinal chemistry, 5th/6th edition, chapter 1-6. (Computational drug design and molecular modeling).
Others:
Statistics, general mathematics and aptitude questions. Use MBA entrance test books like CET or CAT in MBA. Additionally some general awareness questions.
NIPER’s thrust areas are:
Microbial and viral diseases: Yeast, and fungi.
Parasitic and tropical diseases: Malaria, Leishmaniasis, amoebiasis, etc.
Metabolic Disorders: Diabetes
Strokes
Peptide and carbohydrate chemistry.
Genomics and proteomics: yeast and fungi
Hormonal disorders: TRH related diseases.
credit goes to:-www.niperjee.blogspot.com
Friday, May 22, 2009
YOGA IN TREATMENT OF ASTHMA
Dr. Swami Shankardevananda Saraswati MBBS
Asthma is a symbol for many different diseases. When I was young I had very bad asthma, and this had a great effect on my physical, emotional and mental well-being. I was crippled by it. In so many-ways it distorted my lifestyle, and prevented me from doing the things I wanted. But I was very fortunate and came to yoga. A few years ago, I started doing some basic practices, and today I am completely cured.
Western medicine does not believe there is a cure for asthma. I know this from personal experience and from my teachers in medicine. This applies to many other diseases, among them cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. In his ashram, Swamiji has helped all of these through yoga. There is a possibility of recovery even for so called incurable diseases. Now it is just a matter of showing the medical world the potential of yoga and Swamiji’s teaching.
The title ‘Asthma and Yoga’ is in itself the start of something very important for us all. In this we see the combination or union of two different concepts or ideals of healing. One is in the medical word ‘asthma’, and the other is in the Sanskrit word ‘yoga’. Here we see the union of east and west. Having been cured of my disease through this union and after six years of rigorous training, I hope to see medicine remove its limited boundaries and incorporate the wonderful system of yoga.
Asthma is a disease of the respiratory system. What does it mean to have a disease like asthma? What is the respiratory system all about? To start off, the most basic component is the lungs, but there are also many other factors : nose, trachea, ribcage, muscles, shoulders. These components all join together to make breathing easy and relaxed. But, what most of us are missing, and what I missed for so long, was an awareness of just what is going on. Once you become aware that you are breathing all the time, you start to realise how absolutely fantastic and complex, yet how simple a process it is.
This is what medical science has done. It has made us aware of our body, while yoga can make us aware of our mind and spirit. So, once we become aware that we have a respiratory tract, that we have an intricate body to utilise to the fullest, then through the techniques of yoga we can fulfil our potential. The respiratory system is just one part. There are other organs in the body just as fantastic or even more so. The brain, the heart, the hand, the digestive system, the tongue, nose, ears, eyes, all these things. If we think about it, they make us the most wonderful creation on this earth. So why do we get sick? Why do we get things like asthma? It’s a difficult question but we must try to answer it for ourselves. To do this, first we must sort out and become aware of the different parts of the body. Only then can we more fully begin to appreciate and understand what we have.
We know that pranayama is the means to control the mind and relax the body. The lungs are our means of receiving life. We plug into life through our noses, because it is through them that we should breathe. We are plugged into the vast sea of life by breathing which maintains individual life. The moment we stop breathing we have three minutes of life left, unless one is a highly accomplished yogi. Asthma prevents us from plugging into this sea of life properly. It is an incredibly debilitating disease. With control, willpower, determination and regular practice, asthma can be cured. It takes time. It took me many years; and even when I thought I was cured, I wasn’t.
The time has come for everyone to start working seriously on their bodies and minds to eliminate the diseases we all have, and come to wholeness and integration, which is union.
Courtesy: Yoga Magazine, February 1977
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
GOOD QUALITY OF SLEEP
Insomnia is a symptom, not a disease. Insomnia can have many causes, but the biggest cause is due to stress. Stress related to work, school, health or family concerns. Depression is the second biggest cause. The use of stimulants, including caffeine, alcohol, nicotine or other over-the-counter or prescription medications will also cause insomnia. Prescription drugs, including some antidepressant, high blood pressure and steroid medications, can interfere with sleep. Many over-the-counter medications, including some brands of aspirin, decongestants and weight loss products, contain caffeine and other stimulants. Change in your environment or work schedule and even long-term use of sleep medications will actually interrupt your sleep cycle. Medical problems, including fibromyalgia or complex diseases of the nerves and muscles can make it very difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Behavioral insomnia, occurs when you worry excessively about not being able to sleep well and try too hard to fall asleep. Most people with this condition sleep better when they’re away from their usual sleep environment. Best Sleep Tips 1. Sleep. That wonderful but sometimes elusive state of bliss and rejuvenation! I think it is most important to go to sleep with a “Quiet Mind”. Sometimes this is difficult to do. We all have trouble now and then. Sometimes, we are even afraid of knowing that we have to go to sleep. 2. Fear can be an underlining problem in many cases. There are many ways to quiet the mind. Doing 15 to 30 minutes of meditation or yoga can be very helpful. You must allow yourself to be distracted or get into your meditation or yoga and “let go” of the days thoughts…see Meditation. 3. Try tiring yourself out during the day, so that by the time you are ready for bed you are yearning for that pillow! Try exercise during the day to exhaust the muscles and mind. The moving is good when we are depressed too! It gets the blood flowing and makes us move past many issues. Pack your day with lots to do. Errands, class, shopping…whatever you can find to keep you busy. 4. Valerian Root is a wonderful, natural sleep assistanting herb and is considered the ‘valium’ of the herbal world. Herbal tea, half hour before bed, is wonderful for relaxing the digestive system if you are nervous or upset. Chamomile is great for this as well as Kava and Hops. Try brewing these herbs seperate or even together for a wonderful prescription for sleep! See Herbal Teas 5. Reading a book before bed is also good. This can direct your mind to a different place. 6. Diffusing essential oils of Lavender, Chamomile, or Clary Sage are all wonderful to induce a relaxed state and the soothing scents will calm your senses. See Aromatherapy 7. If you are taking a pain killer, be careful for many pain relievers actually have caffeine in them. Perhaps you may want to consider Willow Bark for pain. 8. Remember, we choose our thoughts, our thoughts do not choose us. Believe that this is so. To Believe is a powerful thing. The Universe supports ALL that WE CHOOSE to Believe. So do not torture your mind with troubled thoughts which will not allow you to sleep and are only distructive in the long run. 9. Block out light. To increase the quality of your sleep, research has shown that by blocking out light in your bedroom, you can improve your sleep pattern. If you can see your hand in front of your face, after the lights are off, then it is light enough to affect melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone secreted at night by the pineal gland. The pineal gland is a small organ in the brain sensitive to light levels. 10. Eat Earlier. Eat at least three hours before bedtime. The further away you eat from the time you go to sleep, the better it is for you to have a better night’s sleep. Managing Your Sleep Sleep allows our body to rejuvenate and repair! Don’t Smoke: Besides the fact that it can cause lung cancer and is the second leading cause of death for both men and women, nicotine is a stimulant and can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Limit Stimulants: Caffeine, alcohol, some aspirin and many over-the-counter and prescription drugs disrupt sleep. Avoid drinking caffeine or alcoholic beverages for several hours before bedtime. Although alcohol may initially act as a sedative, it can interrupt normal sleep patterns. Limit Your Nap Time: If you are having trouble sleeping at night, try not to nap during the day because you will throw off your body clock and make it even more difficult to sleep at night. If you are feeling especially tired, and feel as if you absolutely must nap, be sure to sleep no more than 15-30 minutes, earlier in the day. window.google_render_ad(); Keep a Regular Schedule: Keeping a regular schedule will help your body expect sleep at the same time each day. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday, even on the weekends. Oversleeping to make up for a poor night’s sleep, even a couple of nights, can reset your body clock and make it harder for you to get to sleep at night.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Ginseng — Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory?
Laboratory experiments have demonstrated the immunological effects of ginseng. Researchers writing in BioMed Central’s open access Journal of Translational Medicine have shown that the herb, much used in traditional Chinese and other Asian medicine, does have anti-inflammatory effects.
Allan Lau led a team of researchers from the University of Hong Kong who identified seven ginseng constituents, ginsenosides, which showed immune-suppressive effects. He said, “The anti-inflammatory role of ginseng may be due to the combined effects of these ginsenosides, targeting different levels of immunological activity, and so contributing to the diverse actions of ginseng in humans”.
The scientists treated human immune cells with different extracts of ginseng. They found that of the nine ginsenosides they identified, seven could selectively inhibit expression of the inflammatory gene CXCL-10. Lau concludes, “Further studies will be needed to examine the potential beneficial effects of ginsenosides in the management of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases in humans”.
Uniquely, the researchers were able to holistically test the ginseng extract’s immune effects by using sophisticated purification technologies to identify individual constituents and define their bioactivity using genomics and bioactivity assays. After that, they reconstituted them back into a whole extract with definable individual ginsenosides for re-confirmation of effects. This potentially opens up a vigorous methodology to study medicinal herbs with state-of-the-art technologies.
Monday, May 18, 2009
VIT-K
Vitamin Ê also is a fat-soluble vitamin, and it is used in the liver in the manufacture of prothrombin, an essential factor in the clotting of blood.
Vitamin Ê occurs in green vegetables, and also some of the bacteria which normally live in the bowel manufacture this vitamin which we absorb and use.
An excess of Vitamin Ê has not been shown to cause any serious side-effects.
Vitamin Ñ is widely distributed through many foodstuffs. The green vegetables, citrus fruits and potatoes contain considerable quantities.
This vitamin is necessary for the proper development of connective tissue in the body, especially the coverings of blood vessels.
SWINE FLU....SERIOUS PROBLEM
That’s not an alarmist type of statement – it is true. This figure actually comes from the experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which estimates the real number of cases all throughout the country as about 100,000. The fact is that they only have about 4,700 documented or reported cases as of Friday. As for the number of deaths, only five so far have been reported and attributed to swine flu.
The good news is that experts also say that this recent outbreak of swine flu is not as bad as it could be, and is in fact quite mild. AJC has this report:
The good news is that experts also say that this recent outbreak of swine flu is not as bad as it could be, and is in fact quite mild. AJC has this report:
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