HIGH HEELS RAISE RISK OF OSTEOARTHRITIS AND JOINT DEGENERATION: A study has found that knees and heels may be at greater risk from high heels – stilettos, wedges, pumps and kitten heels – and those who regularly wear these shoes for prolonged periods exhibit a greater risk of developing joint degeneration and osteoarthritis. (Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints.) The higher the heel, the greater the risk, the researchers found. As the heels got higher, they also saw an increase in the compression on the medial, or inside, of the knee. Heels higher than two inches especially alter body posture by changing joint positions at the ankle, knee, hip and trunk, which can also create strain on the lower back. High heels also showed a negative effect on posture. The greatest impact was on the ankle. The main researcher suggests moderation instead of abstinence. The study was presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Biomechanics (ASB), which ran from August 18 to 21, in Providence. However, it has not yet been submitted to a professional journal and details are not yet available.

CHILI PEPPERS REDUCE BLOOD PRESSURE: A study has found that while chili peppers may set your mouth on fire, they can also cause blood vessels to relax and widen in the long run, which effectively lowers blood pressure. Previous research on chili peppers has involved short term studies, which have shown mixed results. But this study on rats was long-term and showed a definite reduction in hypertension, or high blood pressure. The active compound is capsaicin, one of the most abundant components of chili peppers. It appears chronically to activate a substance that increases production of nitric oxide, which protects blood vessels from inflammation and dysfunction. Further research is needed to confirm the effect in humans and the number of peppers needed long-term to lower blood pressure. But what if you can’t tolerate spicy foods? An easily-tolerated, mild Japanese pepper contains capsinoids, compounds similar to spicy capsaicin and which limited studies show have a similar effect. The study was published in the August 4, 2010 issue of the journal, Cell Metabolism. It is online at http://bit.ly/cO8vkp but accessible only to subscribers to the journal or those who pay the access fee.

INCREASED WHOLE-GRAIN INTAKE LOWERS CARDIOVASCULAR RISK: It has long been thought that daily consumption of whole-grain foods such as bread could have a positive effect on the risk of cardiovascular disease but until now, no “comprehensive randomized and controlled intervention trial” – a more scientific and conclusive study – had been undertaken. Finally, results of a new study of this type confirm that daily intake of three portions of whole-grain foods significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, at least in middle-aged people, and chiefly through the mechanism of lowering systolic blood pressure (the upper number in your blood pressure reading). In fact, the study pegged the reduction in the risk of developing coronary artery disease at 15 percent and the risk reduction for stroke at 25 percent. After just four weeks on this diet, participants also showed improvements in other risk factors such as insulin sensitivity, cholesterol and internal inflammation. The effect was similar for both those getting three servings of whole wheat and for those getting the same servings of whole wheat and oats. The study was released by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Details are available now online at http://bit.ly/9Ztt9u but only with journal subscription or the payment of an article access fee.

DID YOU KNOW…?
A sunscreen with an SPF, or sun protection factor, of 30 does not offer twice the protection from UVB rays of the sun as a sunscreen with an SPF of 15. In fact, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 offers a 93 percent protection from UVB, while a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 offers only a slightly better 97 percent protection from UVB. Double the SPF does not offer twice the protection and does not mean you can stay out in the sun twice as long. Because some ultraviolet light may still get through sunscreens, they should not be used as a way of prolonging sun exposure. For comparison, a white tee shirt has an SPF of only 3.

NATURAL INTERVENTIONS CAN HEAD OFF DEMENTIA: A new study has determined the individual percentages by which a variety of lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of dementia and suggests that these interventions – in the absence of a new treatment for the mind-robbing disease – are likely to have the greatest impact on reducing dementia levels in the future. The study assessed previously identified risk factors such as depression, diet, alcohol consumption, educational level and vascular factors, which include heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Results found that three changes together – eliminating depression and diabetes and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption – reduced dementia risk by a full 21 percent. Depression alone accounted for a 10 percent risk. Higher education was linked to an 18 percent lower risk. To illustrate the extent of these factors, the genetic tendency towards dementia accounts for seven percent of cases. The study was released August 5, 2010 and will be published in the British Medical Journal. But the journal already has made the full-text version of this important study available to the public, online at http://bit.ly/c3p7KL without the usual requirement of a journal subscription or access fee.

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY LINKED TO LUNG DISEASE AND REDUCED LUNG FUNCTION: An early-release study has found a strong correlation between vitamin D deficiency, reduced lung function and interstitial lung diseases (ILD). (Some diseases obstruct the lungs’ airways and are called “obstructive lung diseases”; others affect the tissue and space around the lung air sacs and are called “interstitial lung diseases,” or ILD. The latter are often characterized by excess connective tissue or scarring, known itself as connective tissue disease, or CTD.) Vitamin D deficiency was found in 38 percent of the 118 study subjects and vitamin D insufficiency was found in 59 percent. But vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was strongly associated with ILD generally and CTD specifically, as well as with reduced lung function. The researchers suggested that an insufficient supply of vitamin D may play a role in the development of CTD lung disease. (In addition to being a vitamin, vitamin D is a known steroid hormone, affecting the immune system, bone health and lung tissue.) This study was released August 5, 2010 but won’t be published until a future issue of the journal, Chest. It is available now online at http://bit.ly/crkDn0 to subscribers to the journal or those willing to pay a one-time access fee.

VITAMIN D MAY HELP FIGHT COLDS AND FLU: Vitamin D supplementation may increase the odds of surviving a winter without taking any days off sick. In the small study, 51 percent of those given 400 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily between October and March – when vitamin D levels drop and flu and cold infections rise – remained “healthy” compared to 36 percent of those given a placebo. Results were not conclusive because both groups were equally likely to report flu-like symptoms during the period. (Previous studies showed a reduction in flu and cold infections but also produced conflicting results.) The study team called for larger studies to ascertain the benefit of vitamin D in warding off infections and to determine appropriate dosages. Experts often suggest people need more vitamin D than health officials recommend, which may require supplements for those not getting enough vitamin D from food sources, which include milk, cereal and some fatty fish such as salmon. This study is published in the September 1, 2010 issue of the Journal of Infectious Diseases. It is available online now at http://bit.ly/b4ZEhE to journal subscribers or those who pay the access fee.

CALORIE RESTRICTION CAN CUT HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: A study has concluded that a substantially calorie restricted, or CR, diet may serve as an effective non-pharmacological treatment for hypertension, or high blood pressure, even in a short-term program. (CR is a dietary regimen that restricts calorie intake substantially below normal levels, while still maintaining normal nutrient levels; it has been shown over many decades to increase median and maximum lifespan in a wide variety of species.) The study also suggested that even a short-term CR diet may help prevent cardiac hypertrophy, which is a thickening of the heart muscle that decreases the size of the chambers of the heart. In just five weeks, a CR diet reduced the systolic blood pressure – the upper number of a blood pressure reading – and reduced ventricular wall thickness. Additionally, this short period of calorie restriction dilated artery walls and improved various other circulatory factors. This study was released August 9, 2010 but will not be published until a future print issue of the journal, Hypertension. It is available online in the meantime at http://bit.ly/9szxLy for journal subscribers or those who pay the article access fee.

POSSIBLE END FOR ANTIBIOTICS: New research concludes a rapidly emerging gene – found in a large and growing number of bacterial samples – makes bacteria immune to all drugs. Bacteria that acquire and reproduce this gene could spread so quickly that they could make all antibiotics redundant and signal the end of modern antibiotics. The gene, known as New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM-1), was first found in pneumonia and E. coli bacteria taken from a single Swedish patient in 2009. But NDM-1 was found in 73 samples of Enterobacteriaceae (bacteria) taken from patients in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as 37 from the UK, who had traveled to these countries for elective surgery. Importantly, the NDM-1 gene was found on plasmids, DNA structures that can be easily copied and transferred between evolving bacteria, suggesting, wrote the researchers, “an alarming potential to spread and diversify among bacterial populations.” Worse, the infections were community acquired, meaning they exist in the general environment. No drugs, including those in development, are effective against NDM-1. This study was released August 11, 2010 and will be published in the September 2010 print issue of The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Meantime, the full-text version of the study can be accessed online at http://bit.ly/bEGfvg by journal subscribers or to those who register on the site; registration is free.

DID YOU KNOW…?
Fish may be known for health benefits but it’s easy to turn those benefits in a health risk. Frying or sautéing can add excess calories, saturated fat and dangerous levels of free radicals, requiring more antioxidants to mop them up and raising the risk of heart disease, obesity and some cancers. Also, any uncooked seafood carries the risk of coliform bacteria, toxoplasmosis and salmonella. Pregnant women who eat high levels of fish containing significant levels of mercury can cause developmental delays and brain damage in their newborns: especially high in mercury are shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. Canned light tuna (as opposed to other tuna), shrimp, salmon, pollock and catfish generally have a lower amount of mercury but still should be eaten only in moderation. Baking, broiling, grilling and poaching are the healthiest ways to cook fish. Like any food, fish should be eaten in moderation. Two servings are equal to about seven ounces; eating over 14 ounces may cancel out the substantial health benefits of consuming fish.

ADEQUATE ZINC LEVELS CUT PNEUMONIA RISK IN HALF: A study of 600 nursing facility residents has found that those with adequate zinc levels were about fifty percent less likely to develop pneumonia than those with low body concentrations of zinc. Also, those with sufficient levels of zinc received fewer prescriptions for antibiotics, had shorter durations of pneumonia and had lower mortality rates. The researchers suggested that zinc supplementation for zinc-deficient elderly persons may result in a lower incidence of pneumonia and that further study is required to determine whether zinc supplements may be an effective and low-cost intervention to reduce pneumonia deaths among vulnerable populations who already have low zinc intakes. (An earlier analysis of the same data had shown that those who consumed 200 international units (IU) of vitamin E were less likely to get upper respiratory infections, such as colds.) The study was released August 10, 2010 and will be published in a future issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In the meantime, it can be read online at http://bit.ly/9FaV0K by subscribers to the journal or those who pay the article access fee.

SUGAR-SWEETENED BEVERAGES LINKED TO RISKS OF DIABETES AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: A new study suggests that sugar-sweetened drinks may play a role in cardiometabolic risk. (Cardiometabolic risk is a constellation of health factors that may raise the risk of diabetes 2 and cardiovascular disease.) Researchers examined the relation between cardiometabolic risk factors and low-fat milk, whole-fat milk, fruit juice and sugar sweetened beverages. Whole milk consumption was associated with a reduced risk of high triglycerides. But sugar-sweetened drinks were linked to high triglycerides; high LDL or “bad” cholesterol; high blood pressure; and high waist circumference – all risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. While the study did not prove a cause-and-effect relation, the study team did suggest that recommendations to limit the consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks may help reduce these risk factors. This study was released August 11, 2010 but will not be published in print until a future issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It is available online now to journal subscribers and those who pay an article access fee, at http://bit.ly/aUOxQJ.

TYLENOL LINKED TO ASTHMA IN ADOLESCENTS: A new study has found a dose-related association between current acetaminophen use by adolescents and their experiences with symptoms of asthma. Although researchers said that “it is not possible” to prove this is a cause and effect link, the study was quite large, involving 360,000 adolescents of 13 to 14 years of age in 50 countries. The subjects were surveyed about their use within the last year, of acetaminophen as well as their symptoms of asthma. Those who used the drug at least once a year showed a 40 percent greater risk of asthma; and those who used acetaminophen at least once a month had a 150 percent higher risk of asthmatic symptoms. Rhinoconjunctivitis – an inflammation of the covering of the white of the eye, combined with a stuffy nose – and eczema were also associated with recent use of the drug. The study team suggested that “controlled trials are now urgently required to investigate this relationship further.” This study was released August 13, 2010 but will not be published until a future issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

DID YOU KNOW…? The most prevalent disease in children is tooth decay. It is about five times more common than childhood asthma. What an expectant mother eats affects tooth development in the fetus. Deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and even calories, during the 14-week to four-month period of pregnancy, can cause oral defects. Children with dental problems are more likely to avoid nutritious foods that require chewing, such as fruits and vegetables. Some data also suggest a deficiency of vitamins B6 or B12 could increase the risk of cleft lip and cleft palate formation.

ADVERSITY IN CHILDHOOD CAN WEAKEN ELDERLY IMMUNE SYSTEMS AND SHORTEN LIFE: A study has found that the pain people suffer in childhood, such as abuse or other adversities, can lead to weakened immune systems much later in life and for some more serious cases, can shorten lifespan by seven to fifteen years. The research on 132 healthy adults, averaging 70 years of age, looked at childhood adversities such as the loss of a parent, serious marital problems between parents, or mental illness or alcoholism within the family. It also assessed the length of telomeres – shortened telomeres are often seen as an indicator of biological aging – and the level of inflammatory indicators, with higher levels linked to various health problems such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, cancers and Alzheimer’s disease. Abuse had a greater effect than adversities but generally, those who had suffered significantly during childhood had shorter telomeres and higher inflammatory levels. Those who experienced several kinds of hardship as kids had the shortest telomeres, suggesting a shortened life expectancy. The study was presented August 14, 2010, at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association in San Diego. It has not yet been published.

PAINT STRONGLY LINKED WITH BLADDER CANCER: Working as a painter is strongly associated with a 30 percent increased risk of bladder cancer, according to a new study. Grouped into the general profession of painting were plasterers, glaziers, wallpaper hangers, artists and decorators. A key risk factor for bladder cancer is smoking – a fact of which few people are aware, according to another study in 2008 – and painters are exposed to some of the same chemicals found in cigarette smoke (including aromatic amines). The researchers were able to separate the impact of the occupational exposure from the effect of smoking. The risk increased with the length of time spent as a painter, which further strengthened the link – separate from smoking – between this occupation and bladder cancer. There was also a small amount of evidence that female painters were at an even greater risk. (Bladder cancer is the ninth most common cancer with more than 330,000 new cases and 130,000 fatalities each year, worldwide.) This study was published in the August, 2010 issue of the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine and is available online at http://bit.ly/ahKhU3 with subscription or payment of a fee.

OBESITY RATES DECLINE AMONG SOME ADOLESCENT GROUPS: A new study concludes that obesity has declined among most groups of adolescents, although the disparities have worsened among other groups. Obesity rates for white and Asian boys and girls peaked in 2005 and declined over the next three years, with 2008 obesity rates coming in at 12 and 13 percent for white and Asian youths, respectively. Although obesity rates among male and female Hispanics also peaked in 2005, the 2008 rates were still at 26 percent. However, obesity rates have not peaked and continued to climb for two groups: black and American Indian adolescent females; the percentages of these girls who are obese are 22 and 23 percent, respectively. When it comes to the most obese, those with BMI at the 99th percentile, only white boys and Asian boys and girls showed any signs of decline after 2005; these most obese all other groups peaked in 2005 and remained at a plateau through 2008. The researchers suggest that tailored intervention programs should be targeted specifically at the at-risk groups. This study was released August 16, and is being published in the September 2010 issue of the journal, Pediatrics.

WOMEN WHO DRINK BEER AT HIGHER RISK OF PSORIASIS: A study has found that women who consume 2.3 or more alcoholic drinks per week have a 72 percent higher risk of psoriasis. On closer analysis, it was found that, among the various types of alcoholic beverages, only beer raised the risk of psoriasis. In fact, women who consume five or more beers per week had a 2.3 times greater risk of psoriasis than women who did not drink. Light beer, red wine, white wine and liquor were not associated with psoriasis risk. (Psoriasis is an immune-related skin condition that might be worsened by alcohol consumption.) The researchers suggest that a non-alcoholic component in beer, one not found in wine or liquor, may play a role in the development of psoriasis. Beer is one of few non-distilled alcoholic beverages that use starch, usually barley, as a source of fermentation. Barley and other starches contain gluten, to which some psoriasis patients show sensitivity. Light beer, not linked to higher risk, contains a lower level of starch. This study was released August 16 but will not be published until the December, 2010 issue of the Archives of Dermatology. Meanwhile, it is available online, without charge, at http://bit.ly/cc3FGf.CHOCOLATE MAY LOWER HEART FAILURE RISK IN WOMEN: A nine-year study of 30,000 middle-aged and older Swedish women links moderate consumption of chocolate with a reduced risk of heart failure. (Heart failure is the inability of the heart to supply sufficient blood flow to meet the body’s needs and occurs in about one percent of Americans over 65.) One to three servings of chocolate per month was found to lower risk by 26 percent compared to women who did not eat chocolate. Similarly, the risk of heart failure was 32 percent lower among women consuming one to two servings a week. However, the risk for heart failure increased by 23 percent among those consuming one or more servings of chocolate daily; this may be due to high-calorie chocolate replacing more nutritious foods. (Previous studies have linked chocolate to reduced risk of high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, possibly due to cocoa’s flavonoids.) The researchers point out that these results apply only to the dark chocolate with a 30 percent cocoa content commonly consumed in Sweden; most of the dark chocolate consumed in the U.S. has a15 percent cocoa content. Released August 16, 2010, the full text of this study will not be available until it is published in a future issue of the journal, Circulation: Heart Failure.

DID YOU KNOW…?
That cold you picked up in hot, muggy weather is not that unusual. Despite common belief, colds are not caused by cold weather, exercise, diet, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or by getting wet, chilled or overheated. Research suggests, however, that susceptibility to the viruses that cause the common cold may increase as a result of psychological stress, allergic disorders affecting the nose and throat and even menstrual cycles. Above all, being in close contact with crowds while not washing your hands regularly raises the risk of viruses entering your body at these susceptible times.

CHINESE HERBAL FORMULA EASES SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY: A study has found that a Chinese herbal formula lessens the negative effects of chemotherapy as well as strengthening the effectiveness of the chemo treatment itself. In fact, the formula seemed to work by reducing inflammation and by increasing the creation of new intestinal cells. No drugs are known to provide such an anti-side-effect impact. The Chinese formula used in the experiment consisted of four herbs – collectively called PHY906 – and was based on an herbal recipe called Huang Qin Tang, historically used to treat nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. This formulation was described over 1,800 years ago. Although the study was performed on mice, the patients experienced less weight loss and greater anti-tumor activity when the formula was added to chemo treatment. Researchers suggested it may be the perfect marriage of both Eastern and Western approaches to cancer treatment; but challenges exist before the Chinese herbal blend can be tested on humans. This study was released on August 18, 2010 by the journal, Science Translational Medicine. It is available online at http://bit.ly/9dk76B to subscribers and those who pay the study access fee.

SPECIFIC VEGETABLES MAY REDUCE DIABETES RISK: An analysis of numerous past studies has found a tentative link between a higher intake of certain vegetables and a lower risk of developing diabetes type 2. The analysis did not find a lower risk with an equally higher intake of fruits and vegetables overall. From past studies, the pattern emerged that those who consumed an average of about one-and-a-half additional servings from a specific vegetable group – cabbage, spinach, cauliflower and broccoli – showed a 14 percent lower chance of getting diabetes. Although the name may not apply, the authors described these vegetables as “green leafy vegetables,” and noted that one-and-a-half extra daily servings of other vegetables did not show the same effect. The researchers cautioned that further study must be done to assess this limited research; that this positive effect derived from whole foods and not antioxidant supplements; and that the study neither proves these vegetables prevent diabetes nor that other vegetables do not. It is too early to recommend to the public that more of these foods be eaten. The authors noted that beta-carotene, polyphenols and vitamin C may all play a factor. The study may mean that dietary advice can be more beneficial than drugs. The study was released August 19, 2010 and will be published in a future issue of the British Medical Journal. It is, however, available to read online now in its full-text format, without subscription or fee, at http://bit.ly/d2J87P.

DID YOU KNOW…?
Daily doses of fish oil containing omega-3 fats can, when combined with exercise, act as an aid to weight loss. People who took fish oil during the 3-month exercise program lost an average 4.5 pounds. But the exercise group that took sunflower oil – which does not contain omega-3 oil – did not lose any weight despite exercising. This study was presented July 31, 2006 in Cairns, Australia at the Congress of the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids.

CIGARETTE SMOKE RISKY AT LOWEST-POSSIBLE DETECTABLE LEVELS: A study has ascertained that even the smallest amount of second-hand smoke, let alone a habit of only “few cigarettes a week,” can put people at risk for future lung disease, such as lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Many past studies have found that second-hand smoke is a health risk but this is the first study to conclude that cigarette smoke – even at the very lowest levels of detection – directly affects the functioning of genes within the cells lining the airways. (Some genes are very sensitive to tobacco smoke and changes within them are the first indication of “biological disease” of the lungs.) Researchers divided people into three groups: nonsmokers, smokers and low-exposure smokers. They then scanned the entire genome of each participant to see what genes were activated or deactivated in airway cells. The study found that there was no detectable level of nicotine or cotinine that was so low that it did not correlate to genetic abnormalities. The author suggested that any degree of public smoking can cause future lung disease; and that this supports public smoking bans. This study was released August 21, 2010 but will not be published until a future issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

ELECTRIFYING POTATOES BOOSTS THEIR ANTIOXIDANT LEVELS: A study has found that two simple methods of “stressing” potatoes increase the antioxidant levels of these vegetables substantially. The methods included immersing potatoes in salt water and adding a small electrical charge between 10 and 30 seconds; and immersing potatoes in water and subjecting them to ultrasound for 5 or 10 minutes. The study team then measured antioxidant activity and the phenolic content and concluded that the stresses increased the amount of these compounds. The 5 minutes of ultrasound, for instance, increased polyphenol levels by 1.2 times and other antioxidants by about 1.6 times. This study indicates that ultrasound or electric treatments can be useful for enriching antioxidant activity of potatoes. (Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables are considered to be of nutritional importance in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, various cancers, diabetes and neurological diseases.) The study was presented August 22, 2010 at the 240th national meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in Boston. It is not available online at this time.

BERRIES CAN ACTIVATE ‘CLEANUP’ MECHANISM IN BRAIN: A study released today concludes consumption of berries, and possibly walnuts, triggers a natural brain mechanism that cleans up and recycles toxic proteins, which are linked to age-related memory loss and dementia. Other studies found that antioxidant-rich foods have anti-aging effects on the brain but this study pinpoints a completely different way that berries stave off the mental effects of aging. In a process called autophagy, “cleanup” brain cells known as microglia, sweep away the debris resulting from inflammation and oxidative damage, debris that can cause memory loss and mental decline. But with age, a protein appears to shut down the autophagy process: the microglia either become less active, allowing harmful debris to accumulate; or become overactive, damaging healthy brain cells. The study team found that berries inhibit the action of this protein, allowing housekeeper brain cells to return to their normal, balanced duties. (This team’s previous research showed berry consumption reversed memory, learning and nerve function.) The study author recommended foods high in polyphenolics, especially as we age. Berries and walnuts are rich in polyphenolics but so are many other fruits and vegetables, especially those with deep red, orange or blue colors. This study was presented in Boston on August 23, 2010 at the 240th annual meeting of the American Chemical Society. It has not yet been published.

DID YOU KNOW…?
Scientists have developed a seven-question assessment tool that, without medical testing, provides a fairly accurate prediction of your risk of already having diabetes type 2. Although a finding of diabetes must later be verified by your health practitioner, an earlier diagnosis of diabetes can lead to more effective treatment. The questions cover ethnicity, sex, family history of diabetes, waist size, body mass index and any history or treatment for high blood pressure. Called the Diabetes Risk score, the test was designed by a team at the University of Leicester in the UK and is available online to the public at http://bit.ly/cB4IUD.

CRANBERRY JUICE’S INFECTION-FIGHTING MECHANISM DISCOVERED: Cranberry juice has been linked to fewer urinary tract infections (UTI) but many see it as a folk remedy. To confirm this infection-fighting association, scientists needed clear insight into possible mechanisms by which cranberry juice works. Now, a study has provided evidence of this mechanism. Researchers cultivated strains of E. coli – the bacteria that are the most common cause of UTI – in urine collected from healthy volunteers both before and after consumption of cranberry juice cocktail. While E. coli grown in ordinary urine were able to produce normal biofilm – the substance that allows bacteria to stick to the urinary tract and to other bacteria, essentially setting up shop – the bacteria grown in urine from those who consumed cranberry juice were unable to adhere to each other or to any surface area. Cranberry juice does not kill bacteria but blocks much of their ability to “stick” around and colonize. Researchers estimated cranberry juice reaches and protects the urinary tract within eight hours of consumption. More women develop a UTI than men. This study was presented at the 240th national meeting of the American Chemical Society in Boston on August 23, 2010. Details have not yet been published.

WATER BEFORE MEALS RESULTS IN GREATER WEIGHT LOSS: A study has found that drinking two cups of water before meals enhances weight loss for those on a diet. Dieters who drank two eight-ounce cups of water before each of their three meals every day lost an average of 4.5 pounds more within 12 weeks than those who did not increase their normal water intake. On a calorie-reduced diet, the group that took water ahead of meals lost 14.5 pounds on average while those who didn’t drink water before meals lost 11 pounds on average. According to the researchers, the reason that drinking water before mealtime works is simply because water has zero calories and yet, gives the sensation of feeling partly full even before you start eating, resulting in fewer calories consumed during the meal. The study author warns that excess water intake is dangerous and can result in death. Health groups such as the National Academies’ Institute of Medicine advise that thirst should be one’s guide to water consumption. This study was presented on August 24, 2010 at the national meeting of the American Chemical Society in Boston. It has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

BLACK RICE BEATS BLUEBERRIES FOR ANTIOXIDANT POWER: A study has found that black rice serves as a highly economical alternative to blueberries and blackberries, touted for their antioxidant punch. The researchers report that a spoonful of black rice bran contains more health-promoting anthocyanin antioxidants than are found in a spoonful of pricey blueberries or blackberries, as well as containing more fiber and vitamin E antioxidants – but with less sugar. Anthocyanin antioxidants show promise for fighting heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Black rice could be consumed in rice form, or the black rice bran could be used as an additive for cereals, beverages or other foods. Also, the pigments in black rice can be used to produce a variety of colors from pink to black and may provide an alternative to artificial food colorants. (Several studies have linked some artificial colorants to cancer, behavioral problems in children, and other health problems.) This study was presented August 26, 2010 at the American Chemical Society’s national meeting in Boston. It has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

DID YOU KNOW…?
Two nutritional supplements appear to reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. In one study, those with the highest vitamin D levels showed a 65 percent lower risk of the disease. Also, some research suggests that a regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids, the type of fat found in oily fish such as sardines and salmon also may reduce the risk of Parkinson’s. However, there is no known way to prevent Parkinson’s disease.

MODERATE EXERCISE COMBATS MENTAL DECLINE: Researchers have announced new hope for veteran couch potatoes. Although some experts call for brisk daily exercise, a new study has shown that even a very modest amount of low-level exercise three times a week can improve the connectivity of the brain’s circuitry, combat the mental decline of aging and boost performance of cognitive tasks. Adults aged 59 to 80 were tested and scanned at the start of the study and after six, and after 12, months of walking at one’s own natural pace for just 40 minutes three-times-a-week. Brain imaging techniques showed that these “professional couch potatoes,” as one of the scientists described them, experienced better brain connectivity, as well as improved performance on cognitive tasks. Those who spent time stretching and toning did not alter their brain connectivity or performance – only those who took occasional, leisurely walks. Higher connectivity results in improved ability to plan, schedule, deal with ambiguity, remember and multitask. The study was released August 26, 2010 and will appear in a future issue of the journal, Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. The full-text study is available online without fee by clicking on PDF in the upper right corner at http://bit.ly/amGX9c.

MOTHERS WHO DON’T BREASTFEED MORE LIKELY TO DEVELOP DIABETES TYPE 2: A study has found that women who do not breastfeed their babies have a significantly higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Diet and exercise are widely known to affect the risk of developing diabetes but few people would guess that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of developing diabetes later in life by decreasing belly fat. The study involved 2,233 women between the ages of 40 and 78 and concluded that women who did not breastfeed were twice as likely to acquire diabetes at some point. The study eliminated potentially confounding factors such as physical activity, age, race, and tobacco and alcohol use. This study is being published in the September 2010 issue of the American Journal of Medicine. The full text version of the study has just been posted online at http://bit.ly/b7MCjG for those who pay the article access fee.

PARENTAL USE OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS A RISK TO CHILDREN: A study has found that widespread use of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines by parents for fever, coughs and colds places children at serious risk, resulting in a larger number of calls to poison centers and more hospital admissions. Researchers discovered that many parents in the study felt that if a drug was available without a prescription, it must be safe to give to children even in double dosages. Of the 119,000 poison control calls surveyed, 48 percent concerned accidental overdose in children, with 15 percent needing hospitalization. Over 85 percent of all calls regarding accidental overdose in children involved those under five, with almost 80 percent of incidents involving those under age three. Only 14 percent of parents made the correct call when dealing with a child’s fever. “It is vital that parents worldwide should understand the proper usage of medicines so that they do not continue to put their children’s health at risk,” said the study leader. This study was presented August 30, 2010 at the annual conference of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) in Lisbon, Portugal. It has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

SMOKING MARIJUANA REDUCES CHRONIC PAIN: A study has concluded that smoked cannabis has the ability to reduce pain in chronic pain sufferers, to lower clinical depression and anxiety levels, and to improve sleep. People with damage or some dysfunction in the nervous system often experience ongoing pain and have few treatment options other than drugs, which include opioids, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, local anesthetics and of course, pain relievers. Many of these cause side effects, prompting patients to discontinue use. Marijuana taken by mouth has been shown to be effective in lowering pain but, according to the researchers, smoked cannabis appears never before to have been tested for this use. The study found reduced pain and improved mood after smoked inhalation, for five days of three-times-a-day, of 25 mg of the herb containing 9.4 percent THC, the bioactive component. They called for more tests and also, for studies on the medical safety of long term use. This study will be published in a future issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal. It was released August 30, 2010 and the full text was posted online for free access at: http://bit.ly/98hlrC.

DID YOU KNOW…?
Gram for gram, carbohydrates are lower in calories than either protein or fat, despite the common misconception that starchy carbohydrates promote weight gain. In fact, most of the body’s energy comes from starches. However, refined carbohydrates are linked to health disorders and the risk of diabetes. Always opt for unrefined, also known as whole-grain, versions of rice, grains and pasta.

to which your body is “sensitive”, thus causing a response with increased mucus production — but maybe the mucus isn’t thin enough or copious enough to help carry the irritant out on the cough. Two favorite approached to non-productive cough are:

1) N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC. You can get this at Rainbow Foods or Ron’s or probably even Fred’s or Superbear. Take at least 600 mg at bedtime — 1200 would be better, to loosen the mucus and help you both have productive coughs.

2) A wonderful pediatric remedy for cough (works for adults too) is 1 cup hot water with the juice of 1 lemon, and 1 T honey. 2-3 times daily.

If you have sinus congestion make sure it’s bacterial (usually with yellowish or greenish secretions, which can be cultured to confirm) before taking antibiotics. If it’s viral antibiotics will just be an expensive way to upset your intestines. Try a neti pot, or a newer method called “Nasopure” available at Rainbow Foods and online at www.nasopure.com. If your congeston is already too impacted to flush out with a neti pot then try a steam inhalation: put about 1/2 tsp of Vicks VapoRub in the bottom of a large bowl, fill with HOT water and lean over the bowl with a big towel over your head, shoulders and the bowl. Don’t burn your face! Do this several times daily until the steam dissipates. The menthol is anti-viral but also, mostly, will help loosen mucus topically.

Also, for any cold/flu LOTS of Vit C -3-5 grams daily – and plenty of hot fluids are proven methods to shorten the course of the illness.

Echinacea is an effective anti-viral for blood types A, B and AB. Not so useful for type O. O’s should choose Astragalus, Eleutherococcus or Larch arabinogalactan as anti-microbials. All of these gentle but powerful herbal remedies are widely available.

GET EXTRA REST

Lastly, if you can treat your “crud” right at the very beginning of the illness, the popular homeopathic remedy “Oscillococcinum” can certainly help shorten the illness. If you are pretty sure it’s viral (secretions are clear, body/muscle aches, feverish) do NOT suppress the fever with aspirin or other anti-pyretics (unless treating someone under age 6 or going on more than 3 days with a fever) because HEAT is a potent anti-viral. Mounting a fever is the appropriate immune response to a viral infection. Go with it!

Disease/Homeopathic Immunizing Nosode

Diptheria/Diptherinum
Pertussis/Pertussin
Polio/Lathyrus sativa
Rubella/Rubeola
Mumps/Parotidinum
Tuberculosis/Tuberculinum
Influenza/Influenzinum
Small Pox & Chicken pox/Variolinum
Anthrax/Anthrocyanum
Measles/Morbillinum
Botulism/Botulinum
Tetanus/Ledum
Pneumonia/Pneumococcinum
Rabies/Lyssin
Streptococcus/Streptococcinum
Syphilis/Syphilinum

Protocol:
1. Begin at age 6 months during an illness free period. Try to be consistent by administering the vaccinations at the same time each year, i.e fall or spring etc..
2. Administer the remedy 1X per day for 2 days, then wait an additional 5 days before administering the next nosode. This allows for you to observe for a
reaction, and if one is seen, wait an additional week before administering the next medicine.
3. During the administration of the homeopathic vaccinations, supplement with extra Vitamin C and thymus extract.
4. Repeat the series each year at the same time until the child is 12 years old.
5. If the child is exposed to one of the diseases, administer a dose of the corresponding nosode to re-stimulate the immune system. Additional
homeopathic medicines may also be utilized following exposure.
6. Consider administering tetanus toxoid as well as this covers the toxin exposure while the Ledum covers the puncture wound.
7. As Polio is obtained by the oral route, oral administration of the vaccine usually does not cause problems except for in immuno-compromised patients.

you can order a homeopathic vaccination kit from Homeopathic Education Services in Berkeley, California, USA.  Tel # 800-359-9051

written by Tom Kruzel, ND
posted here with permission of
Rockwood Natural Medicine Clinic
Phoenix AZ
www.rockwoodnaturalmedicine.com

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):
1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).
2. “Hands-off-the-face” approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless eating or bathing).
3.  Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don’t like salt).  H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms.  Simple gargling prevents proliferation.  In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one.  Don’t underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventive method.
4. Clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water.  Not everybody may enjoy neti pot use, but at least blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.
5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (leafy greens, orange veggies and citrus fruits).  If you prefer to supplement with Vitamin C tablets or powder, make sure to also take 50 mg  Zinc to boost absorption.  Zinc is a potent anti-viral itself, especially combined with beta-carotene or Vitamine A (25,000 IUs daily for 6 weeks).
6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, hot fresh lemonade, etc.) as you can.  Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction.   Both wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, because of the low pH of stomach acid.  This is a major reason why taking anti-acids on a regular basis is a really bad idea.  If you have heartburn, see other posts on this site about how to remedy that problem.

than indicated by previous research (Arch Intern Med 2005; 165: 265–72).

Previous research that compared death rates in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups of elderly people have shown that flu vaccination reduces all winter deaths by 50%. “But it’s really hard to find out who died of influenza because it’s not a reportable disease and few people are tested”, says lead NIH researcher Lone Simonsen.  Some research has tested the efficacy of flu vaccines on illness but has not evaluated the effect of flu vaccines on influenza death rates in elderly people.

Over the past 25 years, the proportion of those aged 65 years or more who receive flu shots has climbed from 15% to 65% in the US.  Previous research that compared death rates in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups of elderly people concluded that flu vaccination reduces all winter deaths by 50%. Yet current estimates of winter death causes suggest that flu-related mortality has actually risen since 1980.

Simonsen’s team took into account an ageing population and the exceptional virulence of a flu strain prevalent in the 1990s.  When her team analyzed the available data for causes of death in the elderly during the past 25 years, she says that about 10% of winter deaths could be
attributable to influenza, and more during the “pandemics” of the 1990s.  The older study estimating 50% reduction of deaths in the winter was evidently “overestimating the mortality benefit of vaccination.”  This is because the “endpoint” in these studies (death) wasn’t limited to death from the flu.  Many winter deaths in the elderly are from pneumonia, and getting a flu shot would have no bearing on preventing death from pneumonia.

More older folks were getting flu shots, yet more of them were dying of the flu.  It doesn’t add up.

Publication of Simonsen’s new study provoked strong reactions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reiterated its faith in existing studies, and questioned the methodology of the NIH study. Concerned by the impact of official disagreements on public confidence, the CDC
and NIH released a joint statement, saying that annual vaccinations continue to provide the best protection for elderly people.

Despite that official statement, other researchers, such as Dr. Ira Longini (Emory University, Atlanta, GA) maintains, “it is clear that increasing vaccination of the elderly has not resulted in a decrease in pneumonia and influenza mortality in that age group.” He points to a mix of robust
and frail immune systems in the population as an explanation for why some folks succumb to the flu, and why vaccination status doesn’t seem to matter. “As we increase vaccine coverage, a proportion of the elderly do not respond to vaccination and will get sick and die from flu whether they are vaccinated or not.”

Another way of saying this is: vaccinations may not impact death rates in the elderly at all.  Further, given that the flu shot is still preserved with a mercury product (thimerosol), and that mercury toxicity has been linked to more rapid progression of Alzheimer’s in the elderly, one hopes that a future study will explore whether the elderly are actually better off without flu vaccines at all.

Asthma is a frightening condition. It is a hypersensitivity reaction causing brochospasm, swelling of the mucous membranes and increased bronchial mucous secretion leading to respiratory distress. Asthma is a reversible inflammatory airway disease. Treatment of asthma MUST include agents or methods that not only cause bronchodilation, but also reduce inflammation. Beta-agonists, typically given in conventional therapy (such as Albuterol, Prednisone, etc.) notoriously do not significantly reduce inflammation, although they are effective bronchodilators.

What kind of Physical Medicine can help asthma? One of the fundamental philsophical tenets of Yoga, an ancient east Indian meditative exercise technique, which means “union” (of body and spirit), is that the most important part of our bodily function to control is the breath. The Sanskrit word for breath is “prana” which also means life force, or spirit. What this is leading up to is that control of the breath is crucial for optimal health and well-being, and a good place to start when life or health is out of balance. Breathing exercises are extremely helpful for asthmatics, because they:

• strengthen respiratory muscles
• eliminate inefficient use of accessory muscles of respiration (such as abdominal or neck muscles)
• replace forceful breathing, which compresses airways, with relaxed breathing
• can reduce hyperventilation by increasing expiration
• can reduce the sensation of breathlessness by increasing the functioning of the diaphragm
• can enhance clearing of airways
• can give you the confidence to withstand breathlessness

To help control an acute attack, sit leaning forward with your head on arms, arms resting on a table. Or, try lying semiprone, with arms and legs slightly bent and relaxed, body and limbs well supported by pillows.

One of the frustrating aspects of asthma is that it can be induced by exercise. Therefore, if you are prone to asthmatic attacks mild aerobic exercise, such as swimming, is best for you. However, some asthmatics are allergic to chlorine, which means swimming in a public pool is out.

Another useful Physical Medicine technique is that of Hydrotherapy, discussed at length in the Introduction to Modalities section. Placing a hot, wrung out towel over the chest can relax the breathing muscles and restore normal breathing. For an acute asthma attack try a steam inhalation (draping a towel over your head and a bowl of hot water) with a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the water. Be careful that the water is not so hot that the steam burns your face. Some doctors recommend taking baths with a cup or so of 3% hydrogen peroxide in the water to bring extra oxygen to the entire surface of the skin, thus making the lungs somewhat less oxygen hungry. This method can be performed preventively. Another technique for an acute attack is to drink some hot water with the juice of one clove of garlic.

It may be useful to assess the alignment of your spine. Often the upper thoracic vertebrae will be out of alignment after an asthma attack, which will ultimately put pressure on the lungs and possibly precipitate another attack. Getting regular maintenance soft-tissue work (massage), specifically between the shoulderblades, followed by a Chiropractic adjustment to the thoracic vertebrae, can reduce the frequency of attacks in chronic asthma, and the severity of attacks in acute asthma.

Can the way I eat help control asthma?
Yes, absolutely. In general, the eating principles for reducing the number of asthma attacks are a diet which is:

• moderately low fat
• low sugar
• high complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and starchy vegetables
• making protein, preferably vegetable protein, only 12-15% of the diet, and decreasing foods high in arachidonic acid (red meats and dairy products). Animal protein tends to be inflammatory.
• vegan cleansing diet or alkaline juice fasts (3-7 days), followed by a vegetarian diet with emphasis on alkaline forming foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

Specific therapeutic foods for controlling asthma are:

• from a Chinese medicine perspective, you want to eat foods that enhance the moisture (or Yin aspect) of the Lung. These are juicy, pungent foods such as garlic, onions, leeks, turnips, grapes, pineapple, green leafy vegetables, apricots, apricot kernels, almonds, walnuts, carrots, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, figs, daikon, lychee, tangerines, loquats, honey, molasses, mustard greens, and sesame seeds
• Other good foods to reduce inflammation as well as for dilating the bronchi are collard greens, cauliflower, garlic, onions, turnips, endive, apricots, cherries, elderberries, green vegetables, raw nuts and seeds, sprouted seeds and grains.
• increase omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids: vegetable, nut, seed oils, salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, walnuts, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, black currant oil. Take at least 1 T of one of raw oils daily to minimize bronchial inflammation.
• foods high in flavonoids and carotenoids such as dark green leafy vegetables and deep yellow and orange vegetables,

For those of you into juicing fresh vegetables and fruits, the following drinks, preferably taken on an empty stomach each morning, will help prevent asthma attacks:

• celery and papaya
• celery, endive, and carrot
• spinach and carrot
• lime, horseradish, and garlic
• carrot

Some more specific food remedies:

• for shortness of breath: l lb. salmon, 2 oz. garlic, 1/4 oz. fresh ginger, salt and tamari. Place seasonings over salmon and steam. Divide and eat three times daily to reduce inflammation.
• eat mango fruit and the skin three times daily.
• take 120 g of dried lychee, discard skin and stones, steam in a covered pot then mash and serve (Yin-fang and Cheng-jun, p. 57)
• for asthma of elderly, cough with thick phlegm: take 2 dried persimmons and 30 g candied honey. Add water, steam in a covered pot, mash and eat twice daily.
• take a fresh lemon and add 1-2 tbsp. honey. Steam in water, with the skin, until soft, mash and eat twice daily.
• take 3 fresh peaches, peel and simmer with 30 g honey in a covered pot. Discard the stones and eat daily.
• take 30 g of walnut kernels, 15 g honey and 6 g turnip seed. Steam for 30 minutes and eat twice daily.
• take 60 g of walnut kernels and 3 g red ginseng. Cover with water and simmer into a soup. Serve twice daily for 3 days.
• take 60 g of fresh chestnuts and 4 pieces Chinese date plus a small amount lean pork. Add water and simmer until cooked, eat once daily.

Foods to strictly avoid: are the mucus forming ones, such as:

• cow’s milk and other dairy products, white bread, refined foods, processed foods, sugar and sweets, tofu, tomatoes, meat, ice cream, shellfish, watermelon, salty foods, cold foods, bananas, mung beans. Asthma attacks may be brought on by allergenic foods. The most common ones are milk, chocolate, wheat, cheese, bananas, peanuts, citrus, and food colorings (tartrazine). If possible, eliminate the use of aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, such as Ibuprofen.

Sometimes diet alone is not enough to help an illness. Specific vitamin and mineral supplementation to consider with asthma is as follows:

• Vitamin B12 1000 mcg injected intramuscularly, daily for 7 days.
• Vitamin B6 50 mg twice daily
• EPA (found in fish oils) 3 g daily
• flax oil 1-2 Tbsp. daily
• bioflavonoids, especially quercetin or hesperidin, 400 mg 15-30 minutes before meals
• Beta carotene 100,000 I.U. daily
• Selenium 250 – 400 mcg daily
• Vitamin E 800 I.U. daily
• Vitamin C 1-2 g daily
• Magnesium 400 mg daily
• digestive enzymes can help reduce mucus formation and prevent undigested food from “leaking” into the blood stream, which would cause a systemic inflammatory reaction.
• N-acetyl cysteine (an amino acid that works well to digest mucus) 500 mg twice daily.
• pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) 500 mg morning or afternoon

What herbal medicine therapies are helpful for asthma?
A vast array of plant medicines can help to heal asthma. Be sure to consult with a qualified herbalist or naturopathic physician to find the herbs that are local, readily available to you, or processed by a conscientious herbal supplier. Your local herbalist will help you determine the best form and dose for the therapy. The following herbal medicines are particularly useful for asthma.

• Ammi visnaga, an East Indian plant
• Brassica spp. (mustard): use in a warm chest compress or as a foot bath for asthma accompanying bronchitis or as foot bath
• Commiphora myrrha: (Myrhh) works well for asthma with profuse secretion which is expelled with difficulty.
• Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley – beware this can be toxic in relatively low doses) is indicated for cardiac asthma, and combines well with Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort).
• Datura stramonium (Thorn apple, toxic!) for chronic asthma
• Ephedra vulgaris: (Ephedra, the herbal Pseudofed) relieves bronchial spasm. Combines well with Lobelia inflata and Grindelia robusta
• Euphorbia hirta: works well for bronchitic asthma, especailly combined with Grindelia robusta
• Grindelia robusta: is given for asthma with a dry cough, sense of soreness, rawness. May be best as fresh plant preparation.
• Lobelia inflata (toxic) for spasmodic asthma with secondary bronchitis. Combines well with Capsicum frutescens, (Cayenne pepper), Grindelia robusta, Drosera rotundifolia, Euphorbia hirta, Ephedra vulgaris
• Marrubium vulgare (White Horehound) for asthma with moist expectoration, loss of the voice and difficulty breathing.
• Polygala senega (Milkwort) is for bronchitic asthma; combines well with Euphorbia hirta and Grindelia robusta.
• Sanguinaria canadensis (Bloodroot, beware, it’s toxic) reduces bronchial spasms and combines well with Lobelia inflata .
• Selenicereus grandiflorus (toxic) for asthma with cardiac symptoms.
• Symplocarpus foetidus: (Skunk cabbage) is a traditional anti-asthma remedy because it reduces bronchial spasms and relieves cough.
• Thymus vulgaris: (the culinary herb, Thyme) breaks up mucus secretions in the bronchii.
• Verbascum thapsus: (Mullein) is very soothing when inhaled from a steaming broth.
• Viburnum opulus: (Cramp bark) reduces spasms all over the body, including the lungs.
• Some traditional asthma remedies using a combination of herbs include:
• for paroxysmal cough and dry mucous membrane use Eriodictyon californicum plus Grindelia robusta. * for a severe attack, when you feel pressed for breath and are wheezing use Gelsemium sempervirens (Yellow jasmine, toxic) plus Ferula sumbul .
• Verbascum thapsus plus Grindelia robusta

Two more old-fashioned, highly effective herbal remedies worth mentioning are:
For an acute attack:

• Cramp bark 7.5 mL of tincture
• Ephedra 5 mL
• Skunk cabbage 5 mL
• Thorn apple 3-5 mL
• Lobelia 7.5 mL
• Cayenne pepper 5 mL

Mix these ingredients together and take 2-3 dropperfulls every 20-30 minutes until the attack subsides. For chronic asthma, mix equal parts of Cramp bark, Mullein, Grindelia, Plantain, Elecampagne, Hyssop and Horsetail tinctures and take 3-5 dropperfulls daily.

How can Traditional Chinese Medicine help my asthma?
One important aspect of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) is the vast field of Chinese medicinal herbs, which are brewed together in individualized combinations to form a thick tea, or “soup.” Asthma is not a single diagnosis in TCM. There are many “patterns” of disharmony which could produce the symptom of wheezing, shortness of breath, or other manifestations of what we call asthma. Your licensed or certified (through the NCCA) acupuncturist or Oriental Medical doctor (OMD) will first determine your TCM diagnosis, then choose herbs or acupoints accordingly. Some patterns of lung dysfunction to be considered are Lung Deficiency, Kidney Deficiency, Phlegm Heat; Liver Fire Insulting Lung; Wind and Cold in the Lung; Lung Invaded by Wind-Heat; Lung Qi Stagnation; Lung Obstructed by Damp-Phlegm with Spleen Yang Deficiency; dysfunction of the Conception Vessel; Excess of the Yin Linking Vessel. If you really want to understand these diagnostic terms more fully, please consult with a good medical library, or consider enrolling in acupuncture school! TCM is an extremely comprehensive field of medical knowledge, and it would be impossible to give explain it in this essay. After your acupuncturist figures out your diagnosis by asking questions, observing you, looking at your tongue and feeling your pulse, herbal and/or needle therapy would be offered. Chinese herbal formulae which would be considered by your local acupuncturist or Chinse herbalist are:

• Ma Huang and Apricot Seed C. (Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang): Lung Invaded by Wind-Heat: wheezing, coughing, labored breathing, nasal flaringand pain, yellow tongue coat
• Licorice and Ma Huang C.: If Ma Huang and Apricot Seed C. is not effective after one or two doses
• Minor Blue Dragon C. (Xiao Qing Long Tang): Wind-Cold; helps prevent asthma during change of seasons; add apricot seed (xing ren) and poria (fu ling) for chronic asthma with chill/weakness
• Ma Huang C. (Ma Huang Tang); Ping Chuan Wan (patent): Wind-Cold.
• Cinnamon C. (Gui Zhi Tang) plus magnolia bark (hou po) and apricot seed (xing ren): Wind-Cold:weak constitution, spontaneous sweating.
• Ophiopogon C. (Mai Men Dong Tang); Ma Xing Zhi Ke Pian (patent): Wind-Heat.
• Hoelen and Schizandra C. (Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin Tang): Lung Obstructed by Damp-Phlegm with Spleen Yang Xu (Deficiency): Delicate constitution, including the elderly; COPD; coughing with profuse sputum that is thin, watery and white with feeling of discomfort in the chest
• Citrus and Pinellia C. (Er Chen Tang); Su Zi Jiang Qi Wan (patent); Chuan Bei JIng Pian (Fritillaria Essence Tablet) (patent); Pinellia 16 (patent): Lung Obstructed by Damp-Phlegm with Spleen Qi Xu (Deficiency): coughing with copious, white sputum that is easily expectorated,palpitations, nausea or vomiting, dizziness.
• Minor Bupleurum F. (Xiao Chai Hu Tang) plus Pinellia and Magnolia C. (Ban Xia Hou Po Tang); Chuan Bei Jing Pian (patent): Liver Invading Spleen with Liver Qi Stagnation: pediatric cough/asthma; to improve general condition and prevent recurrence in strong constitution: use for at least one year
• Ma Huang and Magnolia C. (Shen Mi Tang): Liver Qi Stagnation: dyspnea, wheezing, unproductive cough with uncomfortable sensation in chest, difficult breathing especially when lying down; pediatric asthma
• Xing Shi Gan Tang); Chuan Bei Jing Pian (patent): Lung Heat: Asthmatic cough with mucus in strong patient, thirst, wheezing, coughing, labored breathing, yellow tongue coat
• Six Major Herbs (Liu Jun Zi Tang): Spleen Qi Deficiency with Phlegm: poor appetite, bloated abdomen, loose stools, asthma after overeating or after rich food, gurgling with breathing during asthma attack
• Sheng Mai San; Li Fei (patent): Lung Qi Xu (Deficiency): chronic cough with sparse sputum that is difficult to expectorate, shortness of breath, spontaneous sweating, dry mouth.
• Ma Huang and Gingko C. (Ding Chuan Tang) (available as patent): Lung Obstructd by Phlegm-Heat: coughing and wheezing with copious thick yellow sputum, labored breathing
• Phellodendron C.; Li Fei (patent): Lung Yin Xu (Deficiency)
• Rehmannia Eight F. (Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan) plus Shen Jie San: long-term asthma, more trouble inhaling, skinny, spontaneous sweating, feels cold
• Rehmannia and Schizandra C. (Du Qi Wan); Qi Guan Yan Ke Sou Tan Chuan Wan (patent): Kidney Yin Xu (Deficiency)
• Perilla Fruit C. (Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang): Lung Obstructed by Damp-Phlegm with Kidney Failing to Grasp Qi: coughing and wheezing with watery, copious sputum; shortness of breath with labored inhalation and smooth exhalation, white greasy tongue coat
• Ma Huang and Morus C. (Hua Gai San): Lung Invaded by Wind-Cold: long term treatment, in children; poor appetite, GI distress.
• Bi Min Gan Wan (patent); Pinellia 16 (patent) plus Xanthium 12 (patent): Asthma due to allergy.
• Pinellia 16 (patent): Phlegm; plus Gecko A (patent) for Kidney Xu (Deficiency); plus Xanthium 12 (patent) for allergic asthma; plus Cyperus 18 (patent) for anxiety; plus Ginseng 6 (patent) for dryness The word “patent” as it appears above refers to the prepared Chinese herbal formulations which are available in pill or tablet form. If there is a “Chinatown” or international district near where you live, you may well be able to find these patent medicines, as well as loose herbs to make into your “soup” therapy.

Another aspect of TCM is the insertion of ultra fine needles into specific acupoints, to stimulate the vital force (called Qi — pronounced chee) to flow smoothly and restore balance and optimal functioning to the internal organs, emotions and musculo-skeletal structures. Some of the most important points in controlling asthma lie, naturally, along the Lung meridian, which flows from just under the lateral collarbone, down the arm, and ending on the edge of the thumb nail. The Kidneys are also crucial in lung functioning, according to TCM, because the Kidneys draw down the Qi of the Lung and convert the inhaled air into physical nutrients. Your acupuncturist will likely choose points from the Kidney meridian also. These points run from the bottom of the foot, up the inner leg, across the abdomen and end under the collar bone, just medial to where the Lung merdian begins. Other points may include:

• Kidney-3 (at the inner ankle) and Lung-5 (in the crease of the elbow) for asthma with difficult inhalation
• Spleen-4 (along the inner arch of the foot) and Lung-5 for asthma with difficult exhalation
• Bladder-13 , Bladder-20 (along the spine) and Stomach-36 (a very important poitn just below the knee on the outer leg) for prevention of asthma before seasonal occurence
• Kidney-27, Kidney-26, Kidney-25 and Kidney-24 (about one inch apart between the ribs near the center line at the top of the chest, below the collarbones) relieve acute respiratory distress; relieve constriction in chest; resolve Phlegm (the TCM term for mucus); and stimulate Kidney’s function of reception of the Lung Qi
• ding chuan (a special asthma point on the upper back, right next to the protrusion of the 7th cervical vertebra), Conception Vessel-22, CV-21 and CV-17 (along the spine, also on the upper back) for bronchial asthma; also consider Stomach-40 (on the foot), Large Intestine-4 (one of the most needled points, in the web of the thumb), Conception Vessel-4 (along the spine near the base) and Stomach-36

Link to Part Two

How can Homeopathy help asthma?

Like with Traditional Chinese Medicine, each individual is analyzed for their specific symptoms and an appropriate therapy is chosen, not for the disease, but for the person displaying signs of health out of balance. This is a very important distinction, and, very generally speaking, one of the main differences between conventional and “complementary” approaches to healthcare. Please refer to the essay on Homeopathy in the Introduction to Modalities section.

After the homeopath, naturopath or medical doctor trained in homeopathy (they should have the title “Diplomat of Homeopathy” after their other credentials) listen carefully to your story, one of the following remedies are likely to be prescribed.

• Aconitum napellus and Ipecacuanha are to be given alternately during attack; they will lessen the symptoms, will ease breathing, reduce cough.
• Alumina silicata is for breathing arrested by coughing with rattling in chest; difficult breathing from coughing.
• Ambra grisea is given in old people and children; dyspnea (difficulty breathing) with little exertion.
• Ambrosiais given to patients with fever due to ragweed pollen.
• Ammonium carbonicum for painful breathing; the patient is worse in warm room until suffocation is imminent; coughs from 2 to 5 a.m.
• Antimonium tartaricum for difficult breathing with suffocating cough, anxious oppression front chest from excessive phlegm; aged people, children; respiration is rapid, painful, noisy.
• Aralia racemosa for patients with lots of nasal discharge, with loud wheezing, or a whistling respiration which comes on lying down or at midnight; this patient may get asthma attacks after short sleep; the sputum is warm and salty; theycough because of a tickling in the throat and constriction of chest; the patient has to sit up to avoid choking.
• Arsenicum album is useful in acute and chronic cases with labored breathing, extreme agitation, moaning, restless, great exhaustion and anguish as if dying; the patient has a cold perspiration; breathing is worse when walking, going uphill of up stairs; asthma attacks occur at bedtime or during the first part of night; midnight aggravation associated with emphysema, hay asthma, or after trying to suppress an attack, for example with conventional drugs.
• Belladonna is the remedy given to patients with violent spasms of asthmatic breathing attended by constriction of the chest and a sense of constriction of throat; the patient feel as if he would suffocate; this is an antispasmodic remedy.
• Blatta ori is the remedy for painful breathing and thick purulent mucus
• Bryonia is for an obstruction of the breathing at night or toward morning, with frequent cough, pain under short ribs; the patient feel better lying on their back but feels worse when talking or making even the slightest movement; there may also be tracheal or broncheal irritation
• Chloralum is for wheezing respiration; whe lying down the patient must inhale through their nose and exhale by blowing air out through pursed lips.
• Colocynthis is for asthma accompanied by indigestion and flatulence; the patient feels worse at the sea side; feels cold even in hot weather
• Dulcamara is for asthma brought on by wet weather or by iving on wet basements
• Graphites for any kind of skin eruptions alternating with or co-existing with asthma
• Grindelia is the remedy for an abnormal accumulation of mucus, breathing stops when the patient is asleep; emphysema with dilated heart; asthma of old people suffering from bronchitis which causes paralysis of digestive function. This is a good remedy to bring back the appetite, and to reduce heart palpitations associated with breathing difficulties.
• Hypericum is for asthma which is worse in foggy weather; for when the attacks are relieved by copious expectoration (hawking up of mucus), and profuse perspiration.
• Ignatia is usually a female remedy, and for asthma aggravated by emotions, by cares and repeated griefs.
• Ipecacuanha is for a spasmodic form of asthma which presents with the sensation of having a great weight on the chest with anxiety, wheezing, shortness of breath, feeling of suffocation which is worse with movement; this patient has a constant cough causing vomiting; the chest full of phlegm, there is a cold sweat on the hands and feet; for asthma associated with skin diseases.
• Kali bichromicum is for asthma attacks caused by or following sexual intercourse, especially in the early morning; there is often a characteristic thick, green, ropy nasal or pulmonary discharge.
• Kali carbonicum is for when the attack comes after midnight; it compels patient to sit giving better relief; this patient is sensitive to changes of temperature and to cold drafts; the patient is irritable, full of fears and imaginations.
• Kali nitricum is for excessively difficult or painful breathing, and asthma with faintness, nausea with dull stitches, or a burning pain in the chest.
• Kali phosphoricum is for asthma caused by nerves or anxiety.
• Kali sulphuricum is given to asthmatics with yellow expectoration, much rattling in chest, labored breathing which makes talking almost impossible.NOTE: The above remedies which begin with “Kali” are all characterized by weakness in the patietn. Kali means the element Potassium. All the Kali remedies are “cell salts” which means they occur naturally in the body at various concentrations.
• Lachesis is for asthmatics who are waken up at night from a coughing, wheezing spell; they cough up a thin, watery phelgm, which relieves them. In general Lachesis is a left-sided remedy in which the symptoms are worse during and after sleep.
• Lobelia inflata is given for tightness of the chest, tickling of the trachea, laborious breathing where the patient needs to keep the mouth open to breathe; there’s a tickling under the breast bone on taking a big breath; no cough or expectoration; this patient is worse in the cold; the smell of tobacco fumes is unbearable to this patient.
• Lycopodium os given for asthma induced by excitement, anger or violent emotion . The patient will flare their nostrils in and out in an attempt to breathe more easily.
• Medorrhinum may be given in difficult to pinpoint cases; the patient has a choking cough, can’t catch their breath. They are better lying flat on their face; they want to be fanned; they claim to feel cold yet throw their covers off; heat, a wet damp draft, thunder storms, daylight makes them worse. They feel better in the evening; their asthma alternates or co-exists with rheumatism.
• Mephites is for asthma which comes on with drunkeness.
• Natrum arsenicum for asthma alternating with hives or produced by inhaling coal dust.
• Natrum sulphuricum for asthma which comes on during wet weather, rainy seasons; the patient gets attacks every change of season, in the early morning; the cough is loose, humid, copious,viscid, with greenish-yellow phlegm; rattling noises can be heard in the chest, they expectorate thick, ropy white mucus; they hold their chest with their hand which relieves the cough; for asthma with bronchitis, or a deformity of the chest; associated with or alternating with rheumatism.
• Nux vomica for asthma of digestive origin; nocturnal attacks preceded by disagreeable, anxious dreams; the patient is better lying on their back or changing sides or sitting up; they fart and have a swollen belly.
• Opium for asthma association with blood congestion or pulmonary spasms with deep rattling breathing; anguish, suffocation during sleep, nightmare, bluish redness of face.
• Phosphorus for asthma brought on in humid conditions; the patient has a great thirst for cold water, which is vomited as soon as it get hot in stomach; the urine is scanty and high in protein.
• Psorinum is a remedy for asthma which is relieved by lying down with the arms spread wide apart; for asthma worse in winter and cold seasons; the secretions are sticky and smell offensive; for asthma in old men.
• Pulsatilla for asthma in timid, irritable children or young adults with changeable moods who laugh or cry easily. These patients loath of fat (especially butter), fear the dark, are suspicious and dream of cats.
• Sabadilla is for hay asthma with oppressive sneezing and a watery nasal discharge.
• Sanguinaria is for asthma worsened by odors; the cough is hoarse, harsh and dry.
• Silica for asthma in chilly patients; with lots of catarrh in their chest, with characteristic asthmatic wheezing, inability to move; given in asthma which comes on after having gonorrhea.
• Syphilinum for asthma which returns every summer.
• Thuja occidentalis for asthma which comes on following vaccination; for the patient who also has chronic warts and has a dry cough in the afternoon; for infantile asthma with a dry or loose cough.
• Yerba Santa is for asthma relieved by coughing up phlegm.

Please consult with a qualified homeopathic practitioner for the correct dose of your remedy, and to get the list of precautions to prevent antidoting the remedy.

What kind of Subtle Energy techniques are useful for asthma?
Some folks like to work with flower essences. Some of the more popular ones to help with asthma are:

• oak
• mimulus
• larch
• wild rose
• hornbeam
• crab apple
• impatiens
• gentian
• Shasta daisy
• blackberry
• chamomile
• agrimony
• clematis

Other people find it useful to work with color, either by using thin plastic filters over light sources in their home or office environment, or by wearing clothes of specific colors. The following serves as a guide to experiment with color therapy to help asthma.

During an asthma attack try:

• purple (raises the threshold of pain and is soporific; is a vasodilator; slows heart rate) on face, throat and chest
• scarlet (acts as a stimulant to the kidney and adrenals) on kidneys
• orange (an antispasmodic) on throat and chest
• indigo or violet on throat, chest and upper back for 15 minutes

After an attack try:

• lemon (helps to dissolve blood clots) on front of body
• orange (supports the lung and enhances respiration; acts as a decongestant) on throat and chest
• magenta (helps to balance emotions and enhance energy; helps to build up and balance the functional activity of the heart, kidneys, adrenals, and the reproductive system; a cardiotonic) on chest and kidneys Another method of gathering up subtle healing energy is to work with gems and minerals. They may be worn as jewelry, or placed around the home in special places. For asthma, the following are helpful:
  • Coral ash
  • Emerald ash
  • Pearl
  • Citrine
  • Sapphire and Ruby (for severe asthma)
  • Sapphire and Pearl
  • Ruby, Coral or Pearl
  • after attack, use Pearl
  • if acute, use Sapphire

What about psychologial approaches, such as visualization or meditation techniques, to help asthma?

• Attacks may be more frequent from 1 AM to 3 AM due to normal circadian rhythms. In Chinese Medicine, this is the Lung time of day. Each of the 12 meridians is associated with a 2 hour time period.
• Maybe associated to dependency issues, particularly related to struggles for independence from maternal influence. Asthma is thought to be a manifestation of choking, either from emotional or psychological constriction.
• Severity of asthma attack is directly related to the amount of fear and anxiety felt by the patient. Anxiety causes further bronchoconstriction. Therapy should be directed to reducing anxiety.
• Childhood asthma may have an important role in maintaining the power balance within the family. Since recovery of the child could endanger the family’s habitual security, intrafamilial forces are inhibiting the child’s recovery and play a role in the precipitation of the asthmatic attacks. Furthermore, many emotional conflicts between the parents and siblings often get avoided or diffused due to everyone’s overriding concern over the asthma situation. The patient may serve as a “conflict avoidance tool” and a protection for other family members and their submerged problems of functioning well as a unit.
• Mothers of asthmatics suffered more depressive illness than controls.
• Fear of estrangement from the mother and inhibition of crying may play causative roles in the initiation of asthma in children.
• Asthmatics are often highly sensitive to the loss of love and appreciation from meaningful figures. This hypersensitivity is generally associated with strong feelings of dependency and compliance, which may alternate with unregulated expression of anger or grief.
• A 15 item MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) scale has been developed that relates to the reported frequency of panic-fear symptoms on the Asthma Symptom Checklist (ASC). High scales scores describe fearful, emotionally labilie individuals who profess to be more sensitive than others, and are unable or disinclined to persist in the face of difficulty.
• Child’s repressed aggressiveness within the family and pathological fixation on mother can seed a life long pattern of asthma attacks.
• Repression of the feelings of longing for more affection, fear of losing the mother, and anger at the deprivation experienced can also cause asthma.
• Asthma may simply be a crying out for the mother’s love.
• Bronchospasm in children may be brought on by crying.
• There is some “the chicken or the egg” controversy on emotional aspects of asthma; some say pathologic emotions are a cause, while others say they are secondary to the disease.
• Fear of life; not wanting to be here.
• Fear of maternal separation.
• Generalized fear, anger, and anxiety.
• Personality traits of the chronic asthmatic have been noted as: marked egocentricity, impulsive behavior, impatience, domineering attitude, inflexibility, stubbornness, huge need for love and affection, jealousy, and people who are “late bloomers.”
• Asthma patients feel unloved, left out, or ignored.
• Asthma may be precipitated by the arrival of a new family member, or during the first few years of a marriage.
• Asthmatics have excessive dependency on the mother and later in life may show sexual disturbance. They have considerable anxiety, irrational fears, guilt feelings, and insecurity. When high goals were set, they were unable to achieve them.
• Among the psychic factors, introversion in particular is probably important in the combination of factors affecting the inception of asthma.
• Poor psychosocial adaptation, obsessive neurosis, immature personality, and alcohol problems are associated with static or deteriorating trends in asthma. The patients who were the most extroverted and/or lacked psychic symptoms almost always have more favorable prognoses.
• The asthmatic individual feels left out, unloved or ignored, and wants to screen out another individual competing for attention with them, and not have anything to do with them.
• Children with asthma who also wet their beds appear to be at high risk for lower levels of self-esteem, poor quality of life and parents who prefer their siblings.If any of the above rings true for you, you want want to consider psychotherapy to begin to change these old, dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors. Some techniques include:
• systematic desensitization: after relaxing, describes to your therapist their fears about all the disturbing aspects of the disease ranging from mild asthma to death from status asthmaticus, until you no longer reacts with anxiety. Since anxiety exasperates the asthmatic condition, desensitization helps reduce attacks and their severity.
• Biofeedback: Training both for facial muscle relaxation and for reducint respiratory resistance improves short term pulmonary function. Biofeedback is also useful for deep muscle relaxation and can be learned in such as way as to be accessed anywhere, with or without a machine.
• Your therapist can show you how to do diaphragmatic breathing where you place your hand on the abdomen. (Many asthmatics inhale with the diaphragm raised rather than relaxed.) The therapist can also instruct you to “notice the feelings as the tubes open up.” Then you can reproduce these feelings, and their effects, on your own.
• Yoga: The integral yoga approach to asthma includes correction of distorted posture and faulty breathing habits, methods for the expectoration of mucous, teaching a system of general muscle relaxation, techniques for the release of supressed emotion and for reducing anxiety and self conscious awareness. The Yoga Research Institute in India states that the purpose of functional breathing exercises is to learn to engage both the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm in breathing. The duration of exhalation should be double that of inhalation. Resistance must be made to the free passage of air when breathing in and out, by contracting the larynx or pursing the lips. The patient must let her mind follow the process of exhalation, and allow that to automatically become a form of progressive relaxation.
• Muscular relaxation therapy alone appears to have no effect. Certain relaxation techniques, such as autogenic training, trancendental meditation, systematic desensitization, and biofeedback-assisted relaxation can produce improvement.

Creative visualization concepts which may help you understand the roots of your asthma are a form of self-education. You can also seek guidance from a therapist. The idea is to understand what the bronchi look like, and recognize that an attack can be made worse by seeing bronchi tighten. With this image, you discover you have some control over wether the symptoms get worse or better. Imagine that your chest is a treasure chest, with your heart being the prize. Imagine yourself in a leaf, being the breathing process of the leaf. Imagine that you are a sleek, glossy train, and your voice is a cheerful steam whistle. Hold the following affirmations in your mind, and repeat them to yourself outloud looking in the mirror:

• It is safe for me to take charge of my own life.
• I choose to be free.

Q: Tis the season to be sneezing. Is there ANYTHING I can do about my pollen allergies?

A: In general, the best way to escape the miserable effects of ‘hay fever’ and other reactions to airborne allergens is to avoid them. “Great… that’s a big help,” you’re probably thinking to yourself. It is very difficult to avoid things that fly through your front door, through the car window, even into the bedroom. But all is not lost, and I’m not talking about resorting to antihistamines. If you work outside, such as construction work, you may want to consider wearing a light paper nose and mouth mask to filter out the bigger particles. Also, it may be well worth your money to invest in a home air filtration system. Many folks with dust allergies have discovered Rainbow vacuum cleaners which work with a water filtration system and not a bag for collecting the house dust. Try to wash your hands frequently. If you’re allergic to airborne pollens and/or dust you may also be sensitive to cat and dog dander. Don’t pet the animal then rub your face. Anytime you touch a surface that is likely to be sprinkled with whatever ails you, wash your hands as soon as possible afterwards.The fact of having allergies may signal a weakened immune system. You can never go wrong enhancing your immunity by minimizing toxic input (refined sugar, refined flour, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, exposure to solvents, exposure to burning hydrocarbons, etc). Also, get the basics every day: fresh air, pure water, adequate rest, adequate exercise, and dark green vegetables.

Depending on your individual situation, if you suffer from allergies you may benefit from seasonal supplementation with extra Vitamin C (up to 10 grams daily), Vitamin B5 (up to 800 mg daily) and Zinc picolinate (up to 150 mg daily). Potent anti-inflammatory substances derived from food sources include bromelain from pineapple, papain from papaya and quercitin from the spice Turmeric. Turmeric (also known as curcumin) is a major ingredient in curry and used throughout Far Eastern cuisine not only for flavor, but for its medicinal properties. The agents of inflammation in your body (cytokines, leukotrienes, etc.) are derived largely from something called arachadonic acid which is generously supplied by red meat. While a small amount of arachadonic acid is crucial for life, it can be synthesized internally so it is best to eliminate red meat from your diet entirely if you are prone to hay fever or other allergies. There is a class of fats, called the Omega-3 oils, which are extremely beneficial in decreasing inflammation in the body. These oils are found in the pressed evening primrose flowers, in cold-pressed flax seeds, and in fish. Eat fish generously during hay fever season, and take one tablespoon of Flax oil or Evening Primrose oil daily all year around.

Some folks have been greatly helped by taking “desensitization” drops which are a very dilute mixture of whatever substances they are allergic to, taken under the tongue in dropper form during allergy season. This can be thought of as a kind of “vaccination” and is usually available through a natural health-care provider. Rainbow in downtown Juneau and Ron’s Apothecary in Mendenhall Mall may carry some homeopathic anti-allergy remedies. Anti-histamines tend to make you drowsy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen) MUST be avoided to combat allergic reactions because they will ultimately damage the mucous membranes of the gut and lungs, thus setting you up for chronic hypersensitivity to all sorts of things to which you are regularly exposed.