A selection of News Feeds
Here is a selection of news feeds that you may find interesting. BCWC is not the author of these articles. In fact, we may or may not agree with them. :-)
They do provide interesting reading though.
eCAM: Attacking an Epidemic?
Sep 1, 2010; 7:277-278
The Effect of Therapeutic Touch on Pain and Fatigue of Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Sep 1, 2010; 7:375-381
Original Articles - Clinical Analyses
Ethical Considerations for Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine Clinical Trials: A Cross-cultural Perspective
Sep 1, 2010; 7:295-301
Commentary
Therapeutic Potential of Plants as Anti-microbials for Drug Discovery
Sep 1, 2010; 7:283-294
Reviews
The Ancient Art Of Chinese Massage And Its Benefits
Chinese massage, also known as Tui Na, is a form of massage therapy that dates back 2,000 years in China. During the Chinese massage, traditional medicine and massage techniques are applied to help the body freely flow the Qi.
It is based on Chinese medical theories that just like a globe, the body has meridians through which energy, or the Qi, passes through. If there is a blockage in any of the meridians, this causes sickness or ailments, hence the purpose of Chinese massage is to unblock those passages and bring the body back to balance and achieve equilibrium.
Unlike other forms of massage, Chinese massage is not intended to be used for achievement of relaxation.
It is an art that has been developed to treat and heal internal and external ailments in the body. It addresses ailments on a holistic approach, intending to find and treat the root cause of ailments instead of simply curing the symptoms.
Techniques and methodsA practitioner of Tui Na makes use of hands to treat the patient. Combinations of other traditional forms of Chinese therapy may be used, such as acupuncture, herbalism, Tai Chi, among others.
In Chinese traditional medicine, the body has 8 gates wherein the joints are located. The practitioner will use their hands to rub, knead, or massage these areas to soften up tendons and muscles to open up the systems and allow the energy to freely pass through.
To enhance the process of Chinese massage, tools such as herbs, liniments, compress, and salves may also be used.
Chinese traditional medicine also states that various methods may be used, such as the rolling of hands throughout the body, the use of one finger to push in order to treat internal ailments through acupressure, and bone setting which is used to heal ailments in the musculoskeletal system among others. If you are looking for an alternative method of treatment to aid you, you should give Chinese massage a try.
Benefits of Chinese massage- The use of Chinese massage can help one have speedy healing for bruises and injuries. It will also aid in the removal of scar tissue.
- It will increase your flexibility and overall posture, because the therapy is focused on loosening up tight muscles and joints.
- Therapy has been recognized as effective in treating emotional distress, as well as stress which can cause blockages within one’s musculoskeletal system.
- Chinese massage has been designed to address problems with internal organs, and can be used with other traditional techniques to fully heal a patient.
- Blood circulation and regulation of the nervous system are significantly improved after one or a few sessions of therapy.
- If you are sickly, you can make use of Chinese massage to improve your overall well-being and use it as a form of preventive care to ensure higher immunity against future disease.
- Chronic pain can also be effectively cured through Tui Na.
Feng Shui Diet Tips
Feng Shui is so conceived that it can have a powerful impact on the subconscious mind and even help in losing weight. Here is how:
- Eat off square dishes. They represent contentment, whereas round dishes stand for curiosity. You may end up eating less.
- If you want to avoid overeating, decorate the kitchen and dining room in soft, earthy colors rather than bright ones that could stimulate the appetite.
- Aim for tranquility. Even place settings at the table relax you, whereas an odd number heightens your senses.
- Take help of mirrors. Eat at a place where you can see yourself in the mirror, to make you more mindful of what you eat and how much of it you consume.
- Align yourself fitness program to the waxing and waning of the moon. Customize a 30 day fitness program and keep your mind, body and spirit in synch with it.
- Clear clutter from the house as well as the back of your car, to enhance wellbeing.
- Have a ticking clock where you eat so you remember to eat slowly.
- Cooking at home not only ensures healthy eating, according to Feng Shui, it also promotes financial prosperity.
- Add differently colored food to your plate, it’s a good way of adding nutrition.
What’s A Detox Foot Bath Good For?
It is known as an Ionic Foot bath; a foot bath to facilitate the process of detoxification of the body by way of the feet. While many are skeptical of the whole process, others do claim that it help detoxify the body.
Toxic build up of heavy metals in the body which can lead to aches and pains, tiredness, and lowered immunity, is sought to be removed by the Ionic Foot bath.
Sessions can be conducted in spas and salons or you can buy an ionic foot bath for your home use as available on Amazon.
The process basically involves submerging the feet in salt water and initiating an electric current – now this may sound positively dangerous so if you do decide to engage in this you should be fully appraised of how to work the device.
There is supposed to be a release of toxic substances into the water which discolors it – many people dismiss this as quackery whereas other claims to see and even smell the release of heavy metals into the water and say that the process causes the diminishing of all kinds of chronic aches and pains.
It is also claimed that there is no need for any particular device; you can get good results just by soaking your feet in salt water each night.
Black Rice – The New Superfood
Few of us have probably heard of Black Rice, which according to Chinese legend was only for emperors to eat, so nutritious, tasty and rare was it. But now this rare grain, with its health giving properties is likely to make its appearance in grocery stores nearby.
Like blackberries, and blueberries, black rice contains anthocyanin antioxidants according to a Louisiana State University study.
Not only does black rice contain as many anthocyanin antioxidants as blueberries, it also has more vitamin E antioxidants, and fiber and less sugar.
According to Zhimin Xu, PhD, of Louisiana State University Agricultural Center who examined the health giving properties of black rice grown in Southern America, black rice could be an easy and inexpensive way to increase people’s intake of antioxidants.
Antioxidants are important to prevent heart disease, cancer, and maintain good health.
The health value of beverages and foods such as cakes, cookies, breakfast cereals, could be greatly enhanced and boosted by adding extracts of black rice and its bran.
It is claimed that black rice is even better for health than brown rice, which itself contains high levels of one of the vitamin E compounds known as “gamma-tocotrienol” as well as “gamma-oryzanol” antioxidants which can fight heart disease and even lower levels of bad cholesterol or LDL.
Facial Yoga To Help You Stay Young
We have all tried the ‘miracle creams’ and the ‘smoothing lotions’ and any number of other products that promise to help you become years younger.
But how about using nothing but your face to make it appear younger, with smoother, more toned skin? Apparently, facial yoga can help with this. Being all natural, it uses no outside agencies, but is an effective way to improve circulation in the face, and enhance looks without artificial aids and their side effects.
According to practitioners of facial yoga, doing facial exercises will help to tone the skin and facial muscles, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, and even help to lessen the dark circles under the eyes.
The double chin may also well disappear with facial yoga, as may puffy eyes, so long as facial yoga is done the proper way, and is assisted by good nutrition.
Some find that other skin problems such as teen acne and freckles could also reduce with the help of facial yoga. And it isn’t just alternative practitioners who recommend facial toning exercises, beauticians and doctors also endorse the benefits of facial yoga. Apart from all its benefits, this is free to do!
Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Try Organic Soap
Organic soap is made out of 100% natural ingredients that don’t cause harm to your skin. This has become the preferred soap for more and more people because over the years, ingredients in generic soap have been revealed to have bad side effects.
Regular mass-produced soap often have harmful ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a heavy-duty industrial cleaner used for floors.
They also include alcohol products which dry the skin, and fragrances that cause allergies and other skin reactions.
On the other hand, organic soap is safe and pure, made completely from plant, fruit, and vegetable extracts. These ingredients have been harvested on a purely organic method, which means that farmers did not make use of any chemicals or artificial pesticides and other means to speed up their growth and production.
These pesticides, in the long run, harm the soil and the plants, instead of helping to make them fertile for future growth. They also end up in our water systems and pollute the air.
Additionally, it also means that the production of organic soap did not harm farmers, plants, or fight natural growth processes in order to harvest. Organic soap is produced completely environmentally friendly.
Top 5 reasons why organic soap is something you must try- It is not tested on animals. By living healthy and switching to organically produced soap, you are also helping to save an animal’s life.
- Ingredients used are all-natural and safe, and are also great for sensitive skin. Commercially produced soaps are loaded with artificial ingredients, preservatives and additives that lead to breakouts, acne, allergies, and other skin conditions.
- You will be able to easily feel the difference once you start using organic soap. You will never want to go back to using commercially produced soap again, because your skin will instantly feel healthy, smooth, and moisturized.
- You will greatly reduce the toxins you are putting into your body when you are using organic soap. The chemicals found in regular soap have serious side effects, such as cancer, brain damage, and damage to the nervous system. They may not be felt right away, but over a longer period of time these can build up inside your system and cause serious disease later on in life.
- Organic soap is pumped with natural moisturizers that leave your skin feeling light, refreshed, and moisturized, even on humid days.
Organic soap is safe and friendly for everyone, so it’s something you should consider when doing the groceries for your family next time.
However, you shouldn’t pick just about any soap products in the aisles. It’s important to review labels carefully, because many brands can label themselves as organic when in fact they mix the ingredients with other chemical products. Some of the common ingredients in organic soap are the following:
- Aloe
- Oats
- Peppermint
- Sea salt
- Goat’s milk
- Olive oil
- Essential oils
- Sunflower seeds
- Shea butter
Deal With Ailments Effectively Through Complementary Alternative Medicine
There are a lot of therapies that help people relieve themselves from ailments and illnesses. However, some of these methods may not be conventional to most people. Instead, they are integrative and have come a long way from ancient methods.
People still undergo this kind of medicine simply because modern medicine has become too advanced that it has become impractical for most. Moreover, both options of ancient and modern medicine are paired with advantages and limitations.
Overview of Alternative MedicineOptions such as complementary alternative medicine can indeed be explored by people in order to help them relieve themselves from their ailments. Basically, this kind of medicine is the practice of integrated and alternative medicine combined with the conventional one.
Although there are still yet a lot of studies and medical researches regarding the complementary alternative medicine, it has been seen as a viable option for many people these days. Generally, this kind of medicine includes different medical treatments such as homeopathy, ayurveda, acupuncture and herbal therapy.
Idea behind the medicineThe most basic idea behind complementary alternative medicine is that your body heals itself and that preventive measures are the important elements into wellness.
When people undergo complementary alternative medicine, they will realize that learning and healing go hand in hand which means that in order for you to heal completely; you need to learn how to take care of yourself. The patient must be very cooperative and active towards his own approach in achieving optimum health.
Consulting with a doctorIndeed, people will never know if complementary alternative medicine truly works, however it is still an option for them. So, before engaging in complementary alternative medicine, people should first consult with their doctors to ask for advice.
Never settle for any advice given by unlicensed or professional individual such as your friend or simple opinion by others. This is to make sure that if something goes wrong with the alternative procedure, doctors and licensed practitioner will know exactly how to remedy the medical condition.
Alternative vs. Conventional MedicineComplementary alternative medicine definitely has positive effects to its patients. The idea of the complementary alternative medicine is that you will be experiencing alternative therapies rather than conventional ones which are used in a normal hospital.
In addition, the complementary alternative medicine includes the fact that patients may be consulting with a naturopathic doctor rather than a regular doctor. Although some naturopathic doctors may use the same methods with that of regular doctors, others may have entirely different procedures.
Patients can openly ask questions regarding their hesitations when it comes to difference in medical procedures since complementary medicine may have some alterations with that of conventional therapies.
Although it is considered as an unconventional method, the complementary alternative medicine is in fact being supported by regular doctors. Although the procedures considered in the complementary alternative medicine may seem unfamiliar, we cannot disregard the fact that it works for many people.
Try to explore the wonders and topnotch benefits of alternative medicine and you will surely realize that it’s worth trying especially if your medical condition does not warrant advanced treatment.
What Is Panchakarma Therapy?
An alternative therapy developed in India that seeks to get rid of toxins and ‘doshas’ from the body, the Panchakarma Therapy or Panchkarma Therapy, which is in Sanskrit for five (panch) actions (karma).
Here is a brief look at the therapy which involves five purification procedures for the body to cleanse it of problems and imbalances:
- Vamana therapy involves emesis or cleansing by inducing vomit. This is recommended for those who have problems with their ‘Kapha’ or phlegm problems. Herbal concoctions, licorice teas, salt and calamus are generally used to induce vomiting.
- Virechan is the use of laxatives for purposes of purging the digestive tract, particular to eliminate Pitta or fire from the small intestines. For this rhubarb or senna are administered.
- Basti is the use of enemas that contain medications for purging of the system. The colon is thereby cleansed of Vata or air.
- Nyasa or nasal irrigation uses herbal formulations and medicated oils are used to clear the nasal passage of congestion and relieve the sinuses. This method is used to restore balance for the Prana Vata.
- Rakta Mokshana or bloodletting as a process of removing blood impurities is used very rarely now.
What Is Gastric Band Hypnosis?
Gastric Band hypnosis is a much discussed topic and there is much curiosity about it currently. So what really is gastric band hypnosis?
- In this procedure, the subconscious mind, in a state of hypnosis, is made to believe that gastric banding surgery has taken place. In other words the mind is tricked into believing that there is a physical reason for being able to eat only small quantities of food when in fact there is no actual physical reason.
- There are limitations – if a person has a phobia about surgery, this is not suitable for them. If the person is anyway not a big eater, this will not help either.
- The first step to this procedure is to be in the right place emotionally as well as mentally, so the person should not have unhealthy relationships with food or any other problems, behaviors and habits that would impede progress.
- The root cause of eating is also examined here; whether it is stress, boredom, low self esteem, as punishment, or a perception of lost control that is making them eat the way that they do.
- With the therapy, the person assumes control rather than the food controlling them. They can eat as before; the difference being that they get full a lot quicker.
- There are none of the physical risks that are associated with the actual surgical procedure.
Tai Chi For Fibromyalgia, Chinese Medicine For Cancer
Alternative treatments are now increasingly able to target and treat specific illnesses and conditions, either in conjunction with mainstream treatments or by themselves.
According to this report, researchers have found that traditional Chinese medicine can increase effectiveness of cancer treatment. Huang Qin Tang is a formulation containing roots, fruit and other plant extracts that has been used literally for ages to treat nausea, indigestion etc.
When a person undergoes chemo, healthy cells as well as cancerous cells are typically killed causing a number of negative side effects, which the traditional Chinese formulations could help ease, possibly by lining the intestines and helping in quicker recovery. Also it was seen to reduce inflammation and hence help in reducing tumors.
In another study, it was found that Tai chi helped those with Fibromyalgia, the chronic pain disorder that results in psychological issues and physical problems such as stiffness, pain, insomnia etc.
The practice of Tai Chi, which involves breathing exercises, meditation and slow measured movements, is known to reduce stress and facilitate relaxation and also help in pain management.
The study found that the practice of Tai Chi helped people record dramatic improvement in their symptoms related to pain. Though the study has been termed “thorough but not definitive” the findings are still significant.
Top 10 Benefits Of Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic massage is a form of therapy which was created to encourage healthy lymph nodes through massage. The lymph nodes are crucial to one’s immune system, because through it passes a liquid that protects the body from viruses and other infections.
It was developed in the 1930’s and has long been recognized as a very effective method of therapy and treatment for a number of health conditions.
Various causes can attribute to blockages in the lymph system. Some of these include a poor diet, surgery, fatigue, lack of sleep, and reactions to various medications.
If you are feeling sick, you should give lymphatic massage a try. Just like other forms of massages, it guarantees to relieve you of pain and relax your body and mind. Here are the benefits of having a lymphatic massage:
- The lymphatic massage focuses on eliminating blockages in the lymph systems, which is important in helping one feel healthy and have a stronger immune system.
- Having a clear and healthy lymphatic system is also crucial to the good functioning of the body’s other systems, as it allows the lymph fluid to flow freely and provide protection and circulation.
- Lymphatic massage is also recommended before surgery, as it ensures that the lymph system is healthy. Likewise, it is also used after surgery to reduce swelling caused by the operation.
- Lymphatic massage is a non-invasive form of holistic treatment that can be used by anyone to keep their systems healthy and in good condition. However, if you have existing diseases or infections you should abstain from getting this type of massage treatment because it can promote the spread of the infection through the body.
- Lymphatic massage is also used as therapy for overall well-being, even if you are not sick or suffering of anything.
- Some lymphatic massage practitioners offer breast massage, as lymph nodes are also located in these areas, to provide relief from the pain that is brought about by changes in breast tissue as a result of pregnancy.
- It can be used to treat a number of illnesses including: colds, allergies, joint pain, sports injuries, appetite deficiencies, headaches, fatigue, and cellulite.
- Lymphatic massage is an effective way to stay healthy at the onset of flu season. Simply go to a practitioner and one or a few sessions of therapy will ensure your immune system is strong enough to fight the flu virus during the remainder of the season. There is no additional need to take pills or use special equipment because it is a holistic approach and non-invasive.
- Unlike other types of massage treatments that use high pressure, lymphatic massage is very delicate and gentle, so one never experiences pain. The vessels of the lymph system are located right under the skin, so not much pressure is required to provide relief and unblock the system.
- There are various forms of lymphatic massage available. Also, the sessions do not focus on only one part of the body because lymph nodes are located throughout, such as in the armpit, breast, neck, and groin.
Herbal Supplements For Good Health
Herbal supplements are fast becoming an alternative to achieve a healthy life. Many people use herbal supplements to treat health conditions as well as promote the well being of the user. With this emerging trend, there are a number of herbal supplements available in the market which claims of a good number of health benefits.
Herbal supplement comes from an herb which can be a plant or its plant part like seeds, flowers or leaves, which are used because of its therapeutic properties.
Among its variety is the medicinal herb supplement, which is used to prevent or treat certain diseases. It comes in capsules and pills and others can be used in cooking foods, and some are used as creams and pastes.
Things to consider before using an herbal supplement
With a good number of herbal supplements available, all of which are claiming numerous benefits for your health, it is necessary to consider the following points before purchasing your herbal supplement to meet your needs.
- Inform your health care provider should you wish to use herbal supplement to guarantee safety in your health needs. As such, it is equally important to note the following:
- Inquire if the herbal supplement will have other effects if taken with a prescriptive or over the counter medications.
- Be extra cautious in taking herbal supplement especially if you are about to undergo a surgery or pregnant or a nursing mom, it might have certain effects in your medications and might have contrary effects and response to your treatment.
- Many of these supplements should be taken cautiously because only few of them are not recommended for children and those older than 65, owe to the user’s body content and metabolism processes.
- Be informed that many herbal supplements are not strictly regulated, as such; manufacturers are not duty-bound to guarantee the effectiveness of their product. However, manufacturers should strictly adhere to manufacturing standards to guarantee that it has complied with the necessary regulations concerning quality and to keep contaminants or pesticides away from the supplements.
- It is very important that you read the label to know its contents like vitamins, minerals and other ingredients which will help you. In case you do not understand any of the contents of the supplements, inquire from the pharmacist or your doctor for clarification. It is better to ask than be sorry later.
Herbal supplement may be safe for anybody to use but there are things you need to bear in mind before taking any of them. Should you decide to try and use herbal supplements it is equally important to remember the following:
- Faithfully follow the instructions for taking the supplements. Do not exceed the dosages or take it for longer period than those recommended.
- Take one herbal supplement one at a time and take note of its effects on you. Should there be no result, it is advisable that you discontinue using it.
- Research your herbal supplement provider. Do not purchase products which have record of serious health side effects or those containing prescription drugs or contaminants.
- Be informed with the latest review and regulations issued by the proper governmental agencies regarding the supplements.
Green Tea For Good Teeth?
Green tea, as you well know, is known to be good for a wide array of health benefits – from improving heart health to treating cancer, from preventing infection to improving immune function and even helping treat cancer!
Now recently scientists have found that green tea is even good for our teeth! Not just does green tea contain powerful antioxidants that help to lower LDL cholesterol, it also contains certain antimicrobial components, molecules known as catechins. It is these catechins that are known to promote good dental health.
Antioxidants in green tea help to reduce periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory disease, which is known to affect the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. Studies conducted have shown that those who take green tea regularly actually enjoy better oral health than those who don’t.
Another study showed that green tea drinkers were less likely to have lost teeth and more likely to have a full set of 32 teeth than those who do not drink green tea.
So it would seem that there are plenty of reasons to indulge in the health giving, uplifting and refreshing beverage. However, it is important to remember that the benefits of green tea for health are consequent upon drinking the beverage without adding any sugar.
Mind-Body Treatments For Cancer
The National Cancer Institute site has put together a list of the alternative treatments for cancer that include mind and body wellness. The treatments outlines include:
Aroma therapy and essential oils – This has been seen to improve the quality of life for cancer patients using essential oils from plants, herbs, trees and flowers. This can positively impact physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing
Self Hypnosis – A clinical study has shown that women, who were employed self hypnosis during a breast biopsy, experienced lessening of anxiety, and pain.
Also women who underwent hypnosis reported that their hot flashes were seen to reduce in severity as well as frequency.
Improvements were seen in depression and anxiety as well as sleep and daily activities.
Spiritual Approaches – Whether it is organised religion or a spiritual seeking of inner peace of reestablishing an inner connection, these have also proved to be great coping mechanisms for cancer patients.
Yoga – Yoga is seen to promote general health and wellness, but is also very effective in terms of cancer management. It improves body and mind fitness and helps in relaxation, since it is also able to enhance the body’s stress coping mechanisms and mind body awareness.
Turn To Natural Therapies To Treat Your Ailments Naturally
It is common, in these modern times, how people search for everything natural that can go well with their daily lifestyle as a human being.
The awareness of natural concepts has been a growing demand by millions worldwide. People have flocked to everything natural including food, lifestyle, home living, and even natural therapies.
The definition of natural therapies is quite simple; it is everything generally natural which involves curing sicknesses and ailments without the use of conventional drugs and machinery.
The concept of natural therapies helps soothe the mind and body in ways that modern science is still beginning to comprehend.
Natural therapies may come in different forms. There are a lot of health centers and establishments that actually offer these natural therapies. In essence, most of the natural therapies today are derived from ancient therapies which have been enjoyed by people of days past
Today, it is no surprise how people are beginning to appreciate their roots and are slowly shifting to alternative natural therapies to help relieve them of modern day ailments. Here are three of the most popular natural therapies in today’s world:
1. Naturopathy
This concept is no stranger to natural therapies. It involves the use of natural elements such as heat, water, and biological elements to help relieve the body of toxins. It is said that toxins are what causes the body to deteriorate faster than it normally should.
It prevents the body from rejuvenating waste and other cells that may eventually lead to sickness and even more long term ailments. Naturopathy also promotes for a good diet to help in the detoxification process which, in turn, regulates for proper digestion needed to eject unwanted toxins.
2. Holistic therapies
These therapies are ancient in origin. What first originated in ancient times is now a healthy demand by those seeking to utilize their inner physical, mental, and spiritual strengths to further enhance healing.
The body uses its natural defenses, which is further enhanced by the total oneness of the senses. With the help of sensual body massages, aromatic oils, and calmness the body is therefore relieved of its toxins and stress. For spiritual healing, yoga is utilized to promote spiritual peace with heavy breathing and extensive muscle stretching.
3. Acupuncture therapies
Also known as an ancient Chinese therapy, it stimulates electric charges in the body by using acupuncture needles carefully inserted at certain acupuncture points. The reason being is that it by puncturing the points it sends signals to certain organs to start its natural healing unto itself; therefore, beginning the healing process.
Whatever the case, natural therapies promote total wellness in the most natural of ways. It is a good lifestyle to live and is good for the body as well as the environment. The concept of nature is in play; what we give back we receive in abundance.
Remember, if you plan to avail of any of these natural therapies, best choose depending on what healing your body demands. It is not necessarily restricted to healing per se, but it can also be used as preventive measure to disease and sickness.
Natural Hemorrhoid Remedies
Hemorrhoids are both painful and embarrassing, and there are remedies available for hemorrhoids that will help to manage the pain or try and get to the root of the problem and remove it.
Some natural remedies for hemorrhoids are:
- Application of ice to the affected portion for several minutes each day will help shrink the hemorrhoid and also help in healing. After a painful bowel movement is the best time to do this – it will help reduce the pain by numbing the area as well.
- Take a sitz bath – a hip bath of hot water for 10 to 20 minutes to reduce pain.
- Keep the anal area clean and as dry as possible using tissue and/or talcum powder.
- Don’t be rough while wiping, just dab instead else you end up irritating an already inflamed area.
- Eat a high fiber diet with lots of roughage – this helps to keep the stool softer and easier to pass.
- Drink plenty of water and other liquids.
- When you have to ‘go’ don’t delay since this ends up dehydrating the bowel movement and makes it even more difficult to pass.
