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Herbal eGram #825 Go Go Go!

Good Morning!

          We thrive on reward. We like to please. It feels good to win. We love our Super Heroes. Our society is training us to demand the ultimate. Competition is in most everything we do. We love our champions. These demands have made us ripe for performance enhancing drugs. CNN did an article that was recently updated: https://www.cnn.com/2013/06/06/us/performance-enhancing-drugs-in-sports-fast-facts/index.html This showed how Stimulant drugs have been a part of sports since the 1960's. In another documentary it was noted that JFK and Jackie had a staff doctor who used to give them injections of stimulants and then downers to help them sleep. Their schedule was so demanding that it took super human strength to sustain the pace. JFK was in pain due to chronic illness and had been medicated since childhood.

          The movies we see, the music we hear and the media are all in competition to gain our attention. The public has become used to shocking words in everyday language and sexual scenes that would have been X-rated only a decade ago. Perhaps it is due to the fact that I'm soon to be 75 but I have a difficult time finding enjoyment in most of what other people are viewing and listening to as entertainment. I do believe in self censorship and so I just boycott activities I don't want to be exposed to. The difficulty comes in what used to be considered okay for PG-13 I think of more as R-rated. Just because you constantly hear the F word doesn't make it any less offensive in my thinking.

Just because it is okay for most TV programs to show blatant sexual scenes, doesn't make it okay for those of us who would rather not be exposed to it. I think you can have entertainment without abusing my moral convictions. Okay--off my soap box.

          We live in a FAST society. When we are forced to slow down such as in a traffic jam, we can hardly contain our frustration because we have things to do and people to see. The consequences of being on this treadmill we call life is burnout. Our bodies are not intended to keep at such a high demanding pace. The problems we have with drugs, discipline, obesity, and rampant disease may all boil down to a few simple answers. Life is a cycle. In this cycle there is calm and nurture. Perhaps when we reach burnout it is our body telling us that enough is enough!

          This past Saturday I (along with 60 others) attended an amazing seminar that discussed moods and emotions. What essential nutrients we need to have optimal health including supporting our brains? The big scare of Baby Boomers is being able to sustain cognitive thinking into their Golden Years. I feel that if something isn't changed, this will be the concern of younger and younger generations. Our brains burnout due to drugs, stimulants, and lack of proper nutrients. What are the nutrients our brains need and what is the brain being exposed to that may be getting in the way of proper thinking?

          Drugs are not the answer. There is always going to be a side effect and even though during the present one feels powerful and can think clearly, is it really true? When one is bipolar and they are on the manic side of the spectrum they feel like they can accomplish remarkable feats. They don't need sleep. They don't need to eat. They can speed through everything. But at what cost? This is a video clip on what happens to the brain when you eat sugar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEXBxijQREo

          What does the brain need for balanced health? It needs good fats. When one starts off their day with no food, just stimulants or sugary foods and stimulants, the brain may feel like it can zoom about and get things going but, sooner or later there is a crash and you need to ramp up again. Many drugs now are time released so that it can give you continuous highs. This isn't any healthier. Spiking the brain receptors can cause them to wear out. You eventually need higher and higher doses or stronger drugs. Healthy Omega 3 fats can help calm the inflammation and start to heal the brain. If one has been on medications that stimulate the brain receptors they will need to take at least 5000 grams of healthy fats and DHA is the primary brain fat.

          If a baby was fed regular formula there probably wasn't much DHA in it. Europeans actually add DHA to the baby's formulas. Mother's milk may not have enough either. We have been on a "fat-free" kick in this country for over 30 years so many of us are fat deficient. Eating grass fed butter and cheese (if you can tolerate it) will help. Also food like avocados, nuts, sprouted seeds etc. are beneficial. Grass fed beef is wonderfully high in good fat. Farm raised salmon does not have quality Omega oils but Wild Caught is rich in it.

          Peppermint oil is wonderful to diffuse when you want clear thinking. It has been studied and proven to help students get better test scores. A study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience showed the aroma of peppermint led to improved memory and alertness. And one more study in Cincinnati, Ohio exposed a group of students to the aroma of peppermint oil before a test. Those who smelled the peppermint oil showed an improved accuracy of 28 percent compared to students who did not.

          Mixing Distress Remedy (one dropper full) with 10 drops Peppermint and 15 drops of Lemon and put in a roll-on adding aloe vera gel is a great tool for those with test anxiety. The Distress Remedy works well with calming nerves and the peppermint and lemon can open receptor sites and let the memories flow. Often stress can block thinking and when calm, memory can flow properly. The scents are well tolerated by most people and rubbing the roll-on across the pulse points will sustain the feelings of well being for most people for about an hour. There are no side effects and no long term harmful effects to these natural solutions.

          Learning to take deep breaths can also help one relax and getting the proper amount of sleep is absolutely necessary. Most children do not get enough sleep and therefore their brains cannot repair during the night as it should. Many children are doing too many stimulant activities before bed and their brains cannot calm down. Reading is a good thing to do before bed for both children and adults. Listening to relaxing music can also help calm the brain and teaching children about square breathing: http://kidsrelaxation.com/uncategorized/the-deep-breath-box-square-breathing/ Is another good technique.

          I love Lavender oil for relaxation, but there are a lot of wonderful calming oils that can work if you don't like its smell. Roman Chamomile is great for children to diffuse at bedtime as it is anti-microbial and can help calm. (Just ask Peter Rabbit's mom) If children are particularly upset they can use Distress Remedy along with Roman Chamomile (One dropper to several drops of Roman Chamomile) into a teaspoon of non-scented lotion and rub on the feet for a relaxing night's sleep.

          Hope these hints have been helpful in supporting healthier approaches to a very big problem and that is the overuse of drugs in our society.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #823 Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Good Morning!

          Right off the bat, anytime you see "itis" in a diagnosis you know it has to do with inflammation.

          Sinusitis is inflamed sinuses; arthritis is inflamed joints; bursitis is inflammation of the bursa etc. So Hashimoto was the name of the person who researched inflamed thyroids in the early 1930's. Since then there have been many more studies showing that this is not a rare condition and that it is part of an auto immune syndrome of which the thyroid is only a part of.

           Izabella  Wentz, a pharmacist who has written several books about Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and how to reverse it has some great You Tube videos on how she has dealt with her own condition and reversed it. She has outlined a 5 step program in her book: Hashimoto's Protocol to help reverse why the body is presenting this condition. The first step is to Remove Reactive Foods. For many people this is Gluten but for others it might be nuts, nightshades or eggs. I feel one of the most reactive foods is sugar. But, it might be dairy, soy or corn for you.

          There is a Root Cause Paleo Diet that she recommends that eliminates: Caffeine, Dairy, Eggs, Grains, Legumes, Nightshades, Nuts, Seaweed, Seeds and Sugar. This is so strict so you may want to just go Gluten and Dairy free for a few days and see if symptoms begin clearing up. Add to your diet coconut and veggies but especially you need enzymes.

          Digestive Enzymes (number two on her list) help break down the nutrients in foods and if you take specific enzymes like pepsin in between meals it breaks down proteins in the blood and have been stored and not being used. Proteins, calcium, B12 and Iron are difficult to absorb and utilize without the proper enzymes available. I love Proactazyme in between meals to help break down mucus that has thickened. So when you have inflammation the mucosal lining collects toxins and can clog things up. So, if you have sinusitis, cough a lot, or clear your throat often, you need enzymes!

          The third step in healing is the Gut! Balance gut flora. This is a huge contributing factor to auto immune conditions including Rheumatoid Arthritis. Taking yogurt is not enough. Actually Bone Broth is very healing. I have a recipe for Kombucha Tea and other hints on healing the gut: http://bornforhealth.com/newsletteregram/recipes.html The other component to healing the gut is to be kind to yourself. So many people use negative self talk and don't even realize that these thoughts connect to your gut and cause inflammation. Forgive yourself for being human and making mistakes.

          Using a supplement like Slippery Elm can help heal the lining of the gut. I love the recipe of "Intestinal Soothe and Build". It has helped so many of my clients and friends calm and build the intestines. Several capsules are taken about 15 minutes before eating a meal and it prepares the gut to receive the food and not right away think of it as harmful. Then during the meal take a couple of Proactazyme or Food Enzymes to help break down the food. Finish the meal by taking a couple of probiotics that have several strains in it like Probiotic Eleven.

          The 4th step in the protocol you want to Heal the gut with Bone Broth which is like a soup broth that is slow cooked for at least overnight but better for 24 hours. This pulls the gelatin out of the bones so you want to make sure you are buying the best grade of grass fed or organic meats. Once strained and cooled this should gel. Another supplement that helps to heal the gut is Curcumin, because it helps to heal while calming inflammation.

          Vitamin D3 is also helpful because according to studies from Turkey: 92 percent of Hashimoto's patients were deficient in vitamin D. Another study showed a relationship to higher thyroid antibodies in those with low vitamin D levels. So, since there are no known complications with taking Vitamin D3 it is a great addition to anyone's diet and is rather inexpensive.

          The final thing is to cleanse the body. You can cleanse on a Daily Basis with supplements like fiber but also drinking liquid chlorophyll. Liquid chlorophyll helps to detoxify the blood and of course fiber is important to keep the colon healthy. Specific cleanses are ideal to do during the springtime or in the fall. Parasite cleanses are recommended to start a few days before the full moon as they respond better to the tides and moon changes.

          Lastly, increase your, "WoHoo Factor". Find out what makes you happy and increase it. Find joy in what you do and learn to be grateful. Gratitude goes a long way to supporting good health. We just recently got the essential oil, Paradise. It may help you increase your joy. The first ingredient in this blend is Copaiba oil: The most impressive health benefits of Copaiba essential oil include its ability to reduce pain, eliminate inflammation, protect against infections, heal the skin, prevent fungal growth, and boost the respiratory health. Check out the other E/O is this blend: Atlas Cedar, Lavender, Grapefruit and other citrus oils along with Vanilla. It is pure paradise to the sense of smell.

Hope you found this helpful--pass it on.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #822 Who is your Driver?

Good Morning!

          Have you ever been in a taxi or shuttle where you questioned whether that person knew where you wanted to go? I have several times. One time in China we wanted to go to the silk factory to buy a comforter. The tour guide gave us a card from the hotel we were staying so the driver would know where he should return us and he was given instructions of where we wanted to go. We drove through alleys and bumpy roads and my husband and I got more and more nervous that we wouldn't get to our destination; be able to purchase what we wanted, and get back in time to leave with the tour. It was harrowing. The end result was we had the driver take us back to the hotel and we eventually purchased the comforter at the airport.

          If you are not in charge of where you are going, the journey can be extremely stressful. You might have similar stories if you've travelled. Another time we were in a shuttle on our way to a Disney Resort. We weren't aware that we had arrived between two hurricanes and that the residents were in the middle of evacuation. As we drove along we could see that the expressway we passed over was jammed with traffic. We became more anxious when the driver was using two cell phones at the same time! Afterwards we pieced together he was talking to his boss on one and his wife on the other but it made us very concerned about the safety of his driving.

          Being the driver of a vehicle comes with responsibility. First you must drive with safety and have confidence in your ability to understand the rules and courtesy of the road. Driving safely not only insures you are going to get to your destination but also that you will not endanger others by your driving. If you have someone in the vehicle with you, it comes with added responsibility. Driving becomes habitual and sometimes we don't think about the consequences of not paying attention. Life often becomes habitual too.

          We create habits and don't think about what we are doing because we think it is more efficient; or we are thinking about the next thing we have to do; or we are thinking about what has transpired, or a myriad of other things that occupy our mind. Most of us aren't in the present. We are either in the past or the future. The present is the only thing we have control over. We can only DO now. We can plan for the future but the past is gone and maybe we can do damage control but we can't change it. So what we are thinking matters and what we are feeling matters more. Feelings drive decisions.

          Many people think that they are not in charge of their emotions. "Emotions just happen and there isn't anything you can do". The reason most people believe that is because following an emotional experience comes action and we often do not want the responsibility of that action. For example: You had a hard day at work. On the drive home, someone cuts you off. Your anger continues and when you get home something else happens to upset you further. What would happen if you got in your car after your hard day and changed your prospective? How do you think you would feel?

          Maybe you have an essential oil diffusing in your car and as soon as you opened that car door you were hit with this wonderful smell reminding you to shake off that anger and prepare for a nice drive home. You might be able to have a much more pleasant drive and when you got home be in a better mood. Be aware of what makes you feel good and what makes you feel bad. If the music you are playing is annoying you--change the station. If the news you are hearing is upsetting you--change the station. Most of what you hear you can't do anything about, so why buy in to someone else's view that is only upsetting you?

          If you are like most people, you haven't given much thought as to what you feel and why. It is much easier to blame someone or something else for our disappointments, fears, lack of...than it is to believe we actually had control over the circumstances involved. Most feelings are just projections. Often they aren't the full picture. Sometimes they are compounded by experiences from our past that we aren't even conscious of. We probably buried the feelings long ago but something in this present situation has triggered a response. Ask yourself: Why? And then again Why? Until you get to the point where you can't answer further and you will see that it is a feeling that has no value right now.

          Right Now is what you need to focus on. If what you are feeling isn't helping you in any way...then change it. If you are feeling doubt or fear, maybe it is your "fallback" habitual feeling. Maybe you even have encouraged the feeling by what you say to yourself. Fear can be helpful if it is helping to save us from danger, other than that it is distrustful. It is probably a thought from the past or the future and you can't do anything about it. Change it. How?

          By your words! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCv-ZBy6_yU Collaborate with your mind! Your mind does what it thinks you want it to do. It will make happen what you state and the more passion you think it the more it says--"Oh, this is what you want". Even if you are putting words like, I don't. So, if you are saying, "I don't want cancer. It's a terrible and painful disease". Your brain hears, "I want cancer." You must focus on Health and Vitality. Think of what will achieve that goal and work towards it.

          Your mind is "hard wired" to move you toward pleasure and what is comfortable. So, it will help you continue doing what you are doing because that is comfortable. You've heard that you need to get out of your comfort zone to achieve your goals. This is true. If you are comfortable putting hard tasks off, your body will find ways to achieve that because your brain is in charge.

          Next, your success, whether it is happiness, financial or otherwise, solely depends on two things: The pictures in your head and the words you say. What are you telling yourself: "I'm old; I'm sick; I'm afraid; I'm tired" etc. Check yourself! These words are creating your destiny. Even if you are tired at the moment, think of something that excites you. At the least, grab an essential oil such as "Inspire Blend" and it will help you change your prospective, then you can say: I'm excited or at least, I'm Inspired.

          Finally, your mind loves repetition. So, when you tell yourself you are tired you probably say it more than once. To reverse that you must repeat every few minutes and convince yourself that you are energetic; you have all the energy you need; your body is vibrating with possibility. Find words that completely eliminate the negative perspective you've been thinking. Remember that your emotions are projections. If you don't like the movie you are playing, project something different and your brain will make it happen. Be the driver of your own destiny.

Hope you found this helpful--pass it on.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #821 Take Me on Vacation!

Good Morning!

          Nothing ruins a vacation more than being sick! Whether it is the common cold or the flu, being sick is no fun and it is worse if you are in a place where you don't have what you need to get better. I always take precautions when going on vacation and part of my kit involves essential oils. I also have an arsenal of supplements I take with me and make sure that what I take on a daily basis is doled out in little zip bags marked with B L D to take with my three meals. Being in a strange environment is even more reason to keep up with your supplements.

          You may have heard about the Olympic Village being hit with the Norovirus. Can you imagine working toward something for years only to miss your chance because you were sick? The only thing the Olympic Committee can offer is bringing in an extra supply of sanitizing gel and advising to make sure you are washing your hands. Pretty lame support but they are trying their best to help keep people from getting sick. I hope that they are also making sure the food that is being served is properly washed and those responsible are taking extra care in keeping things clean.

          Every Olympic Village has on premises a McDonald's. Eating properly can make a huge difference in performing and staying healthy...obviously eating at McDonald's is not the best food to support the energy output needed at Olympic events. Here is one Olympian who is outspoken about the poor quality of food at these events: https://www.swimmersdaily.com/2018/02/02/dr-mercola-interviews-olympic-athlete-arkady-vyatchanin/ He also talks about the different medications that are okay and not-okay during these events.

          It may have happened to you...on vacation and missing the fun because of vomiting or diarrhea; fever and chills. I have a tip for you! Many essential oils are antimicrobial. They've been shown to be effective against many of the microbes we come in contact with and yet, I can't believe people still depend on alcohol (not the drinking kind) as their solution; or gels that are full of chemicals and not nearly as effective as pure essential oils. Those gels that you see everywhere only dry out your skin and strip it of its natural pH.

          If you could only take one thing on vacation with you, you might choose Essential Shield Blend.  This combination includes: Orange peel, Clove bud, Eucalyptus leaf, Cinnamon bark, Lavender flower, Lemon fruit, Pine needle, Rosemary Leaf, Peppermint leaf and flower, Grapefruit peel and Thyme leaf. Click on the link and find out what each of these oils fight against and the many studies that have shown how effective this combination is against so many microbes.

          For example: Orange has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against salmonella, Listeria, Escherichia coli, MRSA and it doesn't disrupt the good bacteria that should inhabit our gut. Clove bud demonstrates antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects according to many research studies. It even protects against insects like dust mites and mosquitoes. Eucalyptus is antiseptic so it can topically kill microbes and disinfect areas as well as having pain relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. Inhaling this can help relieve coughs and is an excellent expectorant.

          There are more oils in this remedy but one way you can use this essential oil blend is making wipes to clean off areas that may harbor microbes. We use half sheet paper towels and they are a good size for this purpose. I take about 5 sheets separated and wet them down. Before wringing them out drop about 5 drops of Essential Shield on to the sheets. Wring out until they aren't dripping but still wet. Fold each towel in thirds and place them in a quart size zip lock bag eliminating as much air as you can.

          When on the plane take out one of the "sanitizer" towels and wipe down arm rests, tray table and anything else that may have germs on it. I also start by wiping my hands with this. When you get to your hotel take another wipe and wipe the phone, remote control, knobs and bathroom handles as well as the toilet seat. Smelling the moist towel can help you resist any microbes you come in contact with and support your immune system. So, you can start your morning and end your evening just by opening the zip back and taking a big whiff! It is beneficial in many ways.

          Cinnamon bark is also included in this blend and besides smelling lovely it has antiseptic properties that protect against viral and bacterial strains. In studies it has shown effective against: Proteus, Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pneumonococcus, Neisseria, Corynebacterium xerosa, Mycoplasma hominis, Klebsiella and Candida. So, it is particularly effective against chills, coughs, colds and flu symptoms.

          Lavender flower in this blend has antimicrobial and fungicidal properties making it a great disinfectant. It has a wonderful calming smell and particularly helpful against and breathing it in can destroy 90% of microbes within 3 hours. I've used straight Lavender on burns and been very successful in helping skin heal without blisters.

          More oils in this blend: Lemon which has been shown to destroy airborne bacteria such as Staph and Strep infections and many respiratory ailments; Pine needle showing benefits in tissue oxygenation and effective against those microbes that kill tissue cells (flesh-eating). Rosemary was used as far back as Egyptian times and treated pneumonia and systemic infections. In fact, it was used against leprosy. It has an affinity for supporting brain health and healthy hair. Peppermint leaf is very effective in settling nerves; supporting energy during times of stress but also effective in deterring reoccurring events such as pneumonia. Grapefruit peel, besides adding a lovely citrusy smell to the blend, has shown a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activity.

          The last essential oil in this blend is Thyme leaf which has been studied extensively due to its antimicrobial properties. In France this oil was studied as vaporized (used in a diffuser) and destroyed 90% of pathogenic bacteria including Staph and Strep within 3 hours.

          You can put a few drops of Essential shield into a dime's (circumference) worth of any non-scented carrier. You can use Silver gel; aloe gel; olive oil; or even honey if none of the above are available. Most restaurants will have packets of honey. It may be a little sticky but it is a great way in a pinch to dilute the blend so you can apply it to the bottoms of feet. You can even do this for babies diluting it down to one drop per tablespoon of carrier. Putting this on the bottom of the feet can carry it through the body within seconds and start to break fevers, halt diarrhea, calm chills and coughs. You can apply this every hour if you want to.

          You should see energy levels perk up and this means the immune system is able to fight the infection. Drinking some herbal tea or bone broth is also beneficial but don't tax the digestive system too much during the first 12-24 hours. Make sure you are getting lots of fluids so that the lymphatic system can carry out the pathogens.

          NSP has the Essential Shield blend in a convenient roll-on so that it is already diluted and ready to be applied either to the feet or chest or pulse points. Rolling this onto the wrist pulse areas and then taking a wonderful deep breath can help your body protect you against airborne microbes.

          I hope you take these suggestions on your next vacation.

Hope you found this helpful--pass it on.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #820 Rhodiola Rosea

Good Morning!

          If an herb can be close to a "good for all"; Rhodiola Rosea is right up at the top of the list! Energy, endurance, brain health, Antidepressant, hormonal balance and a great immune support. It is one of the best adaptogenic herbs available for helping deal with stress and mental well-being. There are no known side effects and many health benefits.

          When used in combination with Ginseng, Eleuthero and other adaptogens; this herb can be a huge benefit when added to a healthy supplement and dietary regimen. There is no such thing as a panacea, but this supplement comes very close. I'm grateful for NSP for their superior quality and thoughtfulness in combining great ingredients into the supplement, Adaptomax.

          You can take two capsules a day for maintenance but if you are going on vacation or travelling you may want to bump that up to 2 three times a day especially on the day of travel. Jet lag can really bring down your immune system and breathing re-used air in a plane all contribute to a compromised immune. Add that to people coughing and sneezing around you, it just makes sense to take some precautionary steps to support your health.

          I use a sprayer of peppermint oil (sometimes I add Essential Shield to this) and spray the tray, seat back, arms and my hands. It makes the area smell fresh and I've never had anyone object to it. I usually try to get this done before the other traveler sits down but you can ask permission and generally they will want theirs done as well when you explain it kills germs and leaves everything smelling nice. If there is a screen to touch--spray that as well. You don't have to wet it down, just mist in the direction and you can take a tissue and wipe it if you are too enthusiastic. If the flight is more than two hours, I will generally do this at 2-3 hour intervals.

          To decrease swelling in my ankles I will spray this on my ankles or use a roll-on with peppermint essential oil (10-15 drops to an ounce of massage oil). I have found this to help increase circulation along with doing some ankle twisting exercises and walking whenever possible. I have been on bumpy flights where you couldn't get up and walk and pointing your toes down and up and rotating your feet help a lot along with some deep breathing exercises. You can add lavender oil to the peppermint oil if you're an anxious flyer.

          Another great herb that helps increase circulation is Ginkgo. This herb has some great studies showing how it has inhibitory actions to stress induced high blood pressure. This herb has some protective ability in brain and heart health due to its neuroprotective agent and antioxidant effects. Animal studies have shown it to be anti-aging and that it counters oxidative stress. I love that it is in the formula Adaptomax. Any time a person can fight the stress response with a supplement, they should be doing it. Stress by itself isn't bad but in our society, we simply have too much of it.

          Another ingredient in this supplement is Astragalus. This herb can be found by itself if you prefer to take single herbs but it is a great antioxidant and adaptogenic herb.  It is a tonic so it can feed the body like food. In fact, in China it is added to soup to increase stamina for young and old. Alfalfa is another herb in this combination called Adaptomax. Alfalfa is known as the King of Herbs because it is so rich in minerals. It is a good diuretic and therefore can help when you are stuck on a plane or in a car for hours. It isn't going to make you have to go to the bathroom more often--that has more to do with the caffeine you take in that stimulates the bladder.

          Suma is often referred to as "Brazilian ginseng" and has been used there as an herbal tonic for improving vitality. It is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce pain. It is a good sedative and can reduce anxiety and fatigue. Another herb, Schizandra, included in this formula has been used for centuries for combating the effects of stress. It enhances the liver's function in detoxifying and supporting the glutathione antioxidant pathway. It has also been shown to have antibacterial activity and is considered a powerful antioxidant.

          If the above doesn't excite you than perhaps these additions will: Kelp to support thyroid health; Rosemary for antispasmodic and brain health; Reishi Mushroom for immune support; Eleuthero to fight exhaustion and weakness; Gynostemma to support blood pressure health all in a base of cruciferous vegetables! This supplement is packed with goodies. And I'm glad that others have finally seen the importance of taking supplements when the body is being stressed further as in the case of going on vacation.

          I know it seems silly that we go on vacation to de-stress but, ask yourself when is the last time you went away and didn't get challenged with something? We just live in a toxic world and to fight it we must take precautions. It is ridiculous to think that just washing our hands, or using some chemical laden gel will protect us from all that is out there. I for one, do not believe that. I do believe that I can take charge of my health and assist my body's ability to fight infection and deal better with stress.  

          So many people are traveling these days and I'm excited to be going to Russia in the spring. To me, it is one of the worst things to spend the money on vacation travel and be sick during that time. Adaptomax is a must if you love to travel. It helps with jet lag, keeps your immune system pumped, and helps with endurance. What more could you ask from a supplement? I think of adaptogenic herbs as supplements that help your body adapt to stress of any kind.

Hope you found this helpful--pass it on.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #819 EGCG and Green Tea Extract

Good Morning!

          Some very exciting studies have confirmed the benefits of Green Tea Extract and how it can benefit your health. In doing research for my class coming up on Saturday (Don't Let Your Heart Fail You!), I came across considerable information regarding the benefits of Green Tea. Some of the concerns I had was: How long do you brew it? Do brands matter? How do I know I'm getting the amount of EGCG from what I'm drinking to have the benefits talked about in the research? I couldn't find these answers but I did find out the mg necessary to mimic what was taken by those in the study who found some pretty amazing benefits. So, I thought, why not use a capsule that I could count on to deliver the correct amount? This makes sense to me.

          Many of you have heard about using an aspirin a day to keep the blood thin. But, did you know that aspirin can also perforate the lining of the stomach and gastrointestinal system. " Low-dose aspirin prescriptions have increased, particularly for cardioprotection. Unfortunately, the GI side effects associated with aspirin therapy continue to be a major complication in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. These safety concerns should be important considerations in the decision to use aspirin and warrant further education. The medical community needs to continue to improve awareness of aspirin-induced GI bleeding to better equip physicians and improve care for patients requiring aspirin therapy." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3970722/

          Do you need thinner blood? In an effort to stop clot formation inside arterial and venal walls, doctors have concluded that taking a blood thinner is the answer. The problem is sticky blood! When you eat bad fats (the kind that comes from junk food), the exterior of the blood cell becomes sticky and then they start to clump together. Change your oil! We do this with cars, don't we? Why do you have periodic oil changes--because the oil becomes thick and can no longer perform as it should. Eating healthy fats like coconut oil, fish oil, avocados and such, help the body perform better.

          The other problem is that the vascular cell wall is one layer thick and it is called the endothelium. This cell layer is responsible for maintaining a relaxed vascular tone and low levels of oxidative stress by releasing mediators such as nitric oxide, prostacyclin and endothelin, and controlling local angiotensin-II activity. This allows the endothelium, specifically in the vessels of the heart, to ensure proper blood flow to and from the heart. In terms of endothelium dysfunction, nitric oxide is important to consider and focus on.

          We'll get back to Nitric Oxide in a moment; let's continue with creating healthy cell structure as a preventive to heart disease and stroke. So, along with changing your oil it is important to protect against free radical damage. Just like burning wood in a fireplace that leaves ash, when nutrients are used by the body they will leave garbage called free radicals and these can create havoc if not acted upon by scavengers such as antioxidants. Green Tea extract is a powerful antioxidant that specifically targets free radicals that harm the cardiovascular system as well as mutagenic cells (anti-cancer; anticarcinogenic and anti-tumor) according to studies cited in The American Journal of Natural Medicine and the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Free radicals contribute to plaque formation in arteries and in the brain. Taking antioxidants help prevent these by attacking the free radicals that create inflammation and harm healthy cells.

          Nitric Oxide is given off by the endothelium to help the blood vessel expand to allow more blood to flow through. This is balanced by other mediators that help the blood vessel contract which causes a pumping action of moving the blood (aka Circulation). If the endothelium isn't healthy it cannot create this action and imbalance occurs. Some athletes have found it beneficial to take Nitric Oxide supplements to concentrate blood flow (also important in erectile dysfunction) to muscles they are trying to build. This however, is not the answer if you want healthy heart function.

          When you take a supplement like Nitric Oxide and don't work on the cause, which is endothelial dysfunction, you aren't doing your heart any favors. In fact, some drugs designed to help with erectile dysfunction have created stroke and heart attack concerns. Helping rebalance the endothelium is what is necessary for good health and Green Tea Extract with its polyphenols and antioxidant ingredients can help address the free radicals allowing the body to heal the endothelium.

          Anti-aging is reversing that damage we created by the foods we eat and the thoughts we think. When we hold in anger and let ourselves get upset over the smallest things, we also cause congestion. The study reveals that patients who experienced periods of anger at scale 5 (indicating "very angry, body tense, clenching fists or teeth, ready to burst") or above in the 48 hours prior to onset of symptoms were 8.5 times more likely to have a heart attack in the 2 hours after an outburst. So, get in the practice of taking deep breaths when you are upset and perhaps use the flower essence: Keep Cool.

          Unlike essential oils, flower essences have no smell and are like homeopathic remedies that work on the energy of the body. Keep Cool has seven flower essences in it that help when confronted with negative and stressful situations that you have no control over. Dropping a dropperful of this remedy into your mouth, under the tongue and counting to 10 can do several things. First of all it gives you a space between stimulant and response. Secondly it acts fast to calm the emotional centers of the brain as the saliva carries the ingredients directly to the brain and cool the heat of anxiety and anger. Taking several more deep breaths while swallowing can help you find acceptance, forgiveness and perhaps better tools of communication.

          When it comes to my health, I want to make sure my efforts are counting for something. I think most people would agree they don't like guessing about matters this important. Taking drugs that suppress symptoms never made much sense to me. High Blood pressure is a result of the adrenals responding to stress by emitting epinephrine and norepinephrine to constrict and dilate blood vessels. Sustained high blood pressure is often diet related. Junk food can contribute to this due to the fact that it increases inflammatory markers. Not drinking enough good water and staying hydrated is also a concern with high blood pressure.

          Liquid Lobelia has been shown to support calming the nervous system and opening up congestion. I've had many people use 10 drops in 2 ounces of water and sip on it to help with breathing but now I have another way to use this remedy! Try this experiment: take your blood pressure and then spend about 15 minutes sipping on the lobelia mixture above. Take your blood pressure again. Report back to me what you find. Many people find they can drop their levels even by 10-15 points! Might be a good thing to do while waiting in the doctor's office before having your blood pressure taken. Maybe open up a capsule of Green Tea Extract and add to that Lobelia.

Hope you found this helpful--pass it on.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #818 Redirect

Good Morning!

          If you are a parent, you understand what it is like to redirect. We do it with toys and food and often the tone of our voice. This action is often in the best interest of the child but sometimes it is to save time or to support our wants. If we want to take a picture we will often shake a rattle, make funny noises and play with a toy to redirect their focus and make them smile. If they are hurt we will redirect their attention while we clean the wound. How often have you experienced such a redirect from a dentist?

          If you own an animal and you want it to pay attention to what you want them to do, you understand redirect. Often an animal's attention will get caught up in something and we're waiting for it to do its thing. We call their name and tell them to go potty or hurry up.

          If you are in advertising and you want the attention of the public drawn away from a competitor's story, you too understand redirect. News programs are always concerned about ratings and they compete for your attention. Most often they present what is the most shocking and not always what is the most factual. The press is supposed to be the part of government that keeps politics in check. Its often more about bashing then it is about government issues. Mudslinging only keeps us redirected away from what is important and that is, how well will they run our government and will they protect the people's interest? Unfortunately, we are being redirected constantly.

          Doctors will tell us certain tests are important even when statistics prove those tests or procedures are irrelevant. How effective are mammograms, PSA levels, and cholesterol numbers? Are they relevant in saving lives and curing disease? I've been studying these procedures for some time now. Doctors are supposed to weigh the risk against the benefit of certain tests and procedures before recommending them. They should at least be honest with their patients as to what the risks involve.

          The American Medical Association lays down certain guidelines that doctors must follow and often these rules are not governed by what is best for the patient but what will provide the maximum profit for Hospitals and Doctors and all those who depend on them for jobs. Let's take mammography for example. I've never understood the value of smashing the breast and then exposing it to radiation in order to maybe get a false positive result. Here is what Dr Ben Johnson has to say about it:

          " I wrote a book for women, The Secret of Health Breast Wisdom because we, as a medical society, are giving women breast cancer with our demanding that they get mammograms. Mammograms cause breast cancer. Period. So mammograms are not healthy for women. Women should not be getting routine mammograms. That’s crystal clear, published in the peer review literature.” So there are other ways to determine the health of the breasts and self exam is one of them. Another is Thermograph (a heat sensing--no radiation and safe procedure).

          This makes me quite angry and I needed to share this with others because I don't feel anyone likes feeling duped! Every doctor you go to makes you feel guilty when you don't follow their advice and want to research your condition. They don't like that you are not blindly following the rules. People have access to information like they've never had before. You can Google anything. The thing is that sometimes you can be redirected. You need to look into the resources and see what are their interests. I love documentaries and I've watched plenty about health.

          One of my favorite is, "The Truth About Cancer" narrated by Ty Bollinger. Another is: "The Truth About Vaccines". Recently I had a client who had his PSA tested and was concerned because it was higher than normal. So I did some research and one of the sites that made a whole lot of sense to me was: KnowTheCause.com If you would like to understand some interesting facts about the PSA tests you should watch this video: http://www.knowthecause.com/index.php/psa-test The doctor who invented the PSA test tells how ineffective this procedure is in telling whether cancer is a threat or not. This is the doctor who actually created the test telling us that it is being used in a way that it was not intended for and that it needs to be stopped.

          Finally we get to the testing for cholesterol. Cholesterol does not, by itself, cause heart disease. We need cholesterol. Cholesterol lowing drugs make the pharmaceutical industry rich but they are harming our health. I started saying to my clients over a decade ago: "You watch, with all these people on cholesterol lowing drugs there will be a rise in dementia and Alzheimer's in the near future". And I was unfortunately right! Our brain needs cholesterol and so does our body in order to make hormones. So, we are becoming dumb and infertile so that the drug industry can become rich.

          Are you angry enough to share this information? We need essential fatty acids such as Omega 3 and antioxidants. Are you hearing about these in main stream media? Protecting yourself against heart disease requires far more than just simply lowering your cholesterol levels. In fact, 50 percent of the people who are hospitalized with heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels. What’s more, 25 percent of people who develop premature heart attacks have no traditional risk factors at all. So if elevated cholesterol isn’t the primary cause of heart disease, what is?

          Next month, February is considered Heart Health Month. Do you think you will see massive advertising of Omega 3 oil; Hawthorne or Capsicum--NO! Because the pharmaceutical industry wouldn't make one dime if you protect your heart with these supplements. You need fats in your diet and this is not what you hear or have heard in the past, in fact, it was all about "fat-free". When was the last time you heard that sugar was a major contributing factor to inflammation? Does your doctor recommend you stay away from sugar after surgery to keep inflammation down?

          You do hear that you should consult your doctor for advice on nutrition. Why? They don't know about good nutrition (at least not most of them). They only get about 6 hours of nutritional study in their entire 8 years of education. Want to guess how many hours they get in understanding drugs? I bet it is a whole lot more than 6 hours! Why is it we are directed to a medical doctor for this advice? Because the medical licensing law states they are the only ones that can provide health advice and that includes discussion about nutrition. How archaic! Some of these laws are from the 1800's. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001936.htm

          So, should you get tested? Well, there are books about that subject that you can read and determine for yourself. The question I ask is:"What are you going to do with the information you receive"? Many of my clients go and get tested and more than half of them never take the prescribed drug or do the procedure recommended. Why did you waste your time? If we know that most of the symptoms we are experiencing are because of stress and our diet--why don't we start there? Stop being redirected and do what matters. I know, it is easier to give advice than to follow it.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #817 Proteolytic Enzymes

Good Morning!

          I am an enzyme emphatic! Recently we had a webinar on the importance of enzymes by Dr. Jay and I was gratified to hear that he is of the same opinion. Enzymes are to us like spark plugs are to your car. The biggest concern is that through our food choices we have become enzyme deficient. The easy answer is to make sure you are taking enzymes to help digest food so that you can get the most of what you are taking in. Many people take multi vitamin and mineral supplements but without the proper enzymes you may not be getting the most out of those. I prefer Food Enzymes to be taken during the meal. So, shortly after my first bite I will take my enzymes.

          Not only do they help digest your food, they also help keep pathogens at bay. If your stomach isn't at the right pH, bacteria and other harmful microbes will find their way into the blood stream. So many people take antacids or medication because they feel they're too acidic but the fact is: if you don't have the proper acid pH in your stomach you will not be able to digest proteins and break down food into necessary nutrients. You also lose this immune support. Bacteria will die when they hit the stomach if there is enough hydrochloric acid to bathe them in. When this happens, pathogens will enter the small intestine and contribute to gastroenteritis (inflamed gut).

          There have been many incidences of pathogens being found on fresh vegetables recently and these didn't used to be such a problem but the fact that most people do not have a healthy gut environment, it is becoming life-threatening. Antacids should be used on an extremely rare occasion but I have seen people with huge containers of them in their grocery carts. People eat them like candy. I once was told by an MD that I should take Tums so I can get enough calcium (totally not someone I would get nutritional advice from!). Please people; investigate what you are told and make sure it makes sense.

          Recently Dr. Mercola had an article about Blood Pressure and the concerns about medication being taken due to High Blood Pressure. It is certainly worth looking into. Dr. Mercola mentions the importance of healthy emotions and the impact it has on blood pressure. We all know that anger can raise blood pressure and some people are internally angry because they are frustrated with circumstances that they have no control over. Learning to just let go of things that we can't control is a huge step in having better health. Being angry at someone or something is usually the biggest waste of time. Take some deep breaths; use some essential oils and move on as soon as you can. Your heart will thank you for it!

          Enzymes, particularly proteolytic enzymes can help reduce clotting. Many Americans take anti-clotting medication or "blood thinners" but these can cause bruising and have some serious side effects. The balance between healthy clotting and too much fibrin is having enough of the enzymes that breaks down fibrin when it is no longer needed for clotting. If normal fibrinolysis is impaired, or reduced, heart attacks and strokes are contributed to by clot formations. This is a process more normally found in older people due, in part, to the lack of these enzymes.

          A word about aspirin. Some people have the misunderstanding that aspirin will protect them from having a heart attack. It is still touted by the AMA but the risks of taking low dose aspirin on a daily basis is much worse than the benefit you may achieve. If you have allergies or a compromised gut, it may be due to the permeability of the tissues. Aspirin can create small holes in the gut causing "leaky gut syndrome" and if taken too regularly contribute to ulcers and bleeding. Aspirin was never developed to be used on a daily basis.

          Proteolytic enzymes can be used daily without harming the intestinal lining. The form I prefer is made from the fermentation process using Aspergillus fungi that is very effective in helping break down fibrin and balancing the clotting factor. When it is combined with Hawthorn berries, dandelion leaf, capsicum and resveratrol this supplement creates a powerful tool to have if you desire protection for the cardiovascular system. Let's define these ingredients:

          Asperigillus oryzae and Asperigiilus melleus have shown in studies to be anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic (having proteolytic enzyme activity). These play an important role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease due to their breaking up of blood clots and are used to inhibit blood clot formation. Blockage of the heart by clots is one of the most common occurrences in heart attacks. Having enzymes in the blood stream can help break these up gradually and help them disburse allowing for better blood flow.

          Hawthorn berries are regarded as one of the most significant natural remedies for heart disease in Western herbal medicine and has been used to treat a variety of disorders including constricting of the heart muscle, irregular heartbeat, hypertension and high blood pressure. A little known secret: hawthorn is very effective in improving blood flow and oxygen supply because it supports healthy heart muscle contraction. Most Europeans know the value of this herb and use it in their daily diet as juice, in sauces or jams. Hawthorn berries have been shown to reduce the chemical that raises blood pressure (you may be taking an ACE inhibiting drug--this is a natural ACE inhibiter).

          Dandelion leaf is a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-coagulant! All of these contribute to the benefit of this herb and why it makes sense to include it in the formula: Nattozimes Plus. The diuretic effect found in this herb may be helpful in reducing hypertension and congestive heart failure, since diuretics are often prescribed when one has High Blood Pressure this makes sense to include this herb as well as Capsicum. (People already on blood thinners should talk with their doctor about taking this supplement, or seek the advice of a qualified health practitioner.)

          Capsicum provides a number of beneficial effects to assist cardiovascular function. It has been found to decrease serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels and platelet aggregation. Clots are made up of fibrin and platelets. I've had herbalists tell how a patient was having a heart attack and they sprinkled capsicum behind their lower lip and while it was mixing with the saliva, the person's pain went away and they were able to get them to the hospital with no further incident. It has also been shown to help someone who is having irregular heart beat by sprinkling some capsicum under the tongue and taking some deep breaths. It is a hot pepper so be aware that it will be spicy.

          Resveratrol is the final ingredient in this amazing product and it is included because science has shown the benefits of this great antioxidant in preventing cardiovascular disease. It too inhibits platelet aggregation and the formation of blood clots so it can prevent the build-up of  harmful plaque on arterial walls contributing to high blood pressure and narrowing of the arteries.

          So many Americans take blood pressure medication and now there is evidence that these medications may contribute to cancer. Finding healthy solutions to concerns like High Blood Pressure and other factors that contribute to heart attacks and stroke, is something I'm always on the lookout for; how about you?

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #816 Amaryllis

Good Morning!

          At Christmas, I love receiving Amaryllis. I don't want the plant, just the bulb. Then in January, I plant the bulb. There are so many wonderful new varieties including stripes and doubles but the red one has an interesting myth attached to it. https://www.teleflora.com/meaning-of-flowers/amaryllis I also love the newer varieties. Each year I look for a new variety. I've had the lacy edged ones and odd colors but I think my favorite is still that amazing deep red original variety.

          I think it is wonderful to plant a bulb and watch it grow until it blooms into an exotic flower that is gorgeous for a few weeks. It is a symbol of being tenacious. Because it grows quite quickly--sometimes I think I can actually see it get taller, it is a symbol to me of strength. It has a sturdy stalk but once the flower blooms it needs to be supported or it will tip. I've had some stems grow to almost 4 feet tall!

          I haven't had much success in getting them to regenerate. I've done what they say: https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/amaryllis-care/5410.html but somehow, I can't get them to re-bloom. They grow lovely stems, but no more flowers. I have great luck with my dahlia tubers and calla lily bulbs. Maybe I'll try putting them in the mixture I use for them (they suggest you do a resting period in August).  There is always hope. Growing Amaryllis and taking care of my wintering plants like geraniums and hibiscus help me through the winter months until I can get outdoors and garden for real.

          Gardening is the very enactment of hope. You put seeds or young plants into the ground and you nurture them and if all goes well, you get to harvest. The thing is, you can't simply plant and then ignore. You need to water and feed along the way. Some even say talk or sing to the plants. Sometimes you have to pull some weeds and sometimes get rid of spent flowers. Occasionally you might have trim and shape. Tending a garden is being able to help and support something that will reward you later.

          If you think about it: we also need support in order to let our beauty shine. Encouragement to express your talents is paramount to success. Whether this encouragement is financial, love or other signs of appreciation, we all need it. When someone says thank you for helping them, it's a sign of appreciation. When you receive payment for a job, it's appreciation. When someone smiles at you, or gives you a hug it's because they appreciate you. Sometimes you don't even have to do something and someone will show appreciation.

          When you smile at someone, you brighten their day. Maybe it's the only sign they've received that day that they matter. Sharing a smile or a hug makes you feel good. Doing a small courtesy such as opening a door or allowing someone the right of way when you are driving actually triggers an endorphin response. It's referred to as the "Helper's high". There is even something called: The Science of Good Deeds. Doing good deeds may even be linked to longevity. Some people volunteer to help those less fortunate and that makes them feel good. I think it also helps us key into being grateful.

          Often I will make up an essential oil remedy in either a roll-on or cream to give to someone who is hurting and I don't ask to be paid because I just feel like helping them. It didn't cost me much but they may get some relief that they couldn't find elsewhere.

          This Christmas my granddaughter, Sarah, gave me an assortment of French jams and I was more appreciative of the small jars then the jam, because I use these when I give healing creams to people. I used one just the other day for someone who was visiting and they mentioned their shoulder was hurting so I made up a healing cream. The base was non-scented hand and body lotion with a little Silver gel to keep in antibacterial and then I added 15 drops of Recover essential oil blend. I also have a package of small pickle forks that I mix the cream with. Since there was still some of the healing lotion left on the small fork she wiped it off with her thumb and forefinger and then applied that bit to her shoulder. She loved the smell and it immediately gave her relief.

          Who needs your support today?

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

For more info on other products, and how to get them at wholesale direct (member cost) click:

http://www.mynsp.com/born; and then go to Products A-Z. If already a member, click on www.naturessunshine.com. If you want to get member prices and you need to be sponsored use account 9256 or: http://hartonweb.com/nsp-herbs/bornforhealth.com

If you have any questions or comments, please email me, or for an appointment Call: 248-559-6763.  

If you find it valuable—send it on. This message is for information only. It is not intended to diagnose nor prescribe as that is the realm of a medical doctor. If you have specific symptoms, see an appropriate health professional. Please seek the advice of a health practitioner for specific ailments.

Herbal eGram #815 Heartburn

Good Morning!

          Did you know that consistent use of some heartburn medications may lead to malnutrition and some studies show that it may lead to Alzheimer's Disease. The real fact is most people have a lack of proper digestion and heartburn is a symptom of a need for more enzymes to support better digestion.

          Many things contribute to heart burn including poor posture, eating too fast, eating the wrong food and the presence of a hiatal hernia. When a person is stressed they tend to tighten the diaphragm which is the muscle just below the rib cage. This muscle plays an important part in correct breathing. When the diaphragm is tense in inhibits deep breathing and many people are so used to breathing shallow they aren't even aware that they are breathing with only the upper portion of the respiratory system.

          Medical procedures include surgery but there are other, more effective ways of relieving a hiatal hernia. Preventing it is one of the most important things you can do to aid digestion and support better health. Yoga and other relaxation exercises concentrate on proper breathing. There is something called "diaphramatic breathing". These exercises will help improve the way you breathe to encourage more oxygen flow. Putting the essential oil of lavender just below the rib cage can assist the muscle in relaxing. Train yourself to breathe this way and practice it throughout the day to help reduce stress.

          Proton Pump inhibitors like Prilosec interrupt the ability of the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid. This is a very important digestive that helps break down proteins and minerals like calcium. It also helps to sterilize the food you ingest by killing bacteria and microbes that might harm the body. I believe that one of the reasons people react so severely to salmonella these days is because they have so little Hcl available in their digestive system.

          Hydrochloric acid prevents harmful bacteria from entering the GI tract but if it isn't there, these bacteria freely enter and create havoc. Hydrochloric Acid triggers the peristalsis of digestion allowing food to move along and be broken down into molecules that can be utilized for energy and healing. Lack of this acid slows down the digestive process leading to bloating, gas, indigestion, and yes, heartburn!

          So, to me, it makes sense to assist digestion and not inhibit it! Learn to take deep breaths during the process of eating. Put your fork down in between bites and make sure you are chewing so that the food is almost liquid before you swallow it. Sometimes taking a large glass of room temperature water (with lemon helps too) before you eat will assist in the production of saliva where the first contact with food begins digestion.

          When you drink with a meal you dilute the enzymes necessary to help digest the food. If you are going to drink anything, it should be at room temperature or a little warmer and it should be water or an herbal tea like lemon/ginger or others that can help with digestion. Ice Cold drinks shock the stomach and interrupts the digestive process along with diluting the enzymes. An occasional sip of wine or water is fine but drinking more than a few ounces with a meal makes it more difficult for proper digestion to occur.

          Make an effort to change what you drink with a meal and the amount until you are in the habit of eating a meal without drinking anything. Also, taking digestive enzymes are very helpful. If you already experience bloating or heartburn you might want to try a Food Enzyme that has betaine hydrochloride in it that helps the body make HCl naturally to encourage better digestion. If you have severe heartburn you might not be able to start with a supplement that contains betaine hydrochloride. Taking plant enzymes such as Proactazyme might be a better start as it won't start acid production but will support digestion until you can tolerate an enzyme and acid combination.

          Remember the objective is to support hydrochloric acid production as it assists the body in preventing harmful bacteria entering the gastro-intestinal tract. Once the bacteria passes through this barrier the immune system must then identify it and act on it. When the immune system identifies something as harmful it creates antibodies and this can happen with healthy food as well. Some people cannot tolerate gluten and some dairy. Do a food diary where you record how you feel after eating; what you ate and the circumstances (ate in the car or when upset). Soon you will discover what you need to change.

          When someone has already damaged the lining of the stomach and it is irritated, it is wise to support the body's effort in healing by taking herbs that help rebuild the lining. You also want to learn how to manage stress better and drink enough water (half your body weight in ounces) to support the body's need for water.

          Slippery Elm and Marshmallow root are two herbs that help rebuild mucosal linings and I have found most helpful when the intestines are irritated and contribute to cramping or spasms. Taking these before you eat seems to calm the peristalsis that contributes to spasms. It is important for peristalsis to move the food along but when it goes into spasm it sends the food rushing through causing diarrhea and or constipation. If you are experiencing these symptoms you may want to discuss it with an experienced nutritionist. Most doctors will only recommend medicine that may be contributing to other problems and discouraging proper digestion.

          Occasionally medicine is necessary but most are recommended for taking only for a very short time. I've seen clients who have been taking "heartburn" medication for years and their health is challenged because of it. These are not a long-term answer. Correcting digestion is crucial to good health.

Yours, For The Health Of It,

Dr. Mary

Mary Born, ND CNHP CNC

DrMary@bornforhealth.com

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