You might be thinking, “Isn’t castor oil known for its laxative properties?” You’re not wrong, but castor oil has had numerous uses for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, for example, castor oil was used to treat eye irritation and induce labor in pregnancy. Nowadays, you can commonly see castor oil in skin and hair care applications, particularly because it has incredibly moisturizing properties. 

What Is Castor Oil?

Extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, castor oil is a vegetable oil that must go through processing for safe usage. The reason for that is because the seeds, castor beans, contain high levels of ricin, which is a toxic enzyme. Ricin is removed during processing, making it safe for people to use. Nowadays, castor oil is a common ingredient in many lotions, makeup products, and cleansers as a humectant, hydrating agent, and moisturizer. Continue reading to learn how using castor oil benefits facial skin. 

May Reduce Fungal Infection

In a 2013 study, researchers aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of different natural extracts against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalic in root canals. The results indicated that castor oil was able to significantly reduce the number of CFU of the tested bacteria. Candida albicans is the fungus that can cause nail fungus, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch. 

May Soothe Sunburn

According to anecdotal evidence, the moisturizing properties of castor oil may soothe the irritation and pain of a sunburn. Researchers believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil are responsible for this ability. 

Exhibits Moisturizing Qualities

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids, which work to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It acts as a humectant, creating a barrier on the surface of dry skin to help lock in moisture. In doing so, castor oil can help prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. Skin and hair care manufacturers add castor oil to beauty products for this reason. It’s also added to these products as an emollient to promote hydration. Because castor oil is thick, you may want to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil, prior to applying it to the face. 

Can Help Soothe Inflamed Skin

One study found that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil helped reduce inflammation in mice. Researchers observed similar effects in guinea pigs. Although gels containing ricinoleic acid can reduce inflammation, more human studies are needed to fully understand the scope of castor oil’s ability to soothe inflammation.

May Exhibit Antibacterial Properties

According to scientific studies, castor oil contains analgesic, antihistamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study from 2016 aimed to determine if castor oil exhibited antibacterial activity. Study authors noted that the protein from castor seeds contained antibacterial and anti-proliferative properties, inhibiting the growth of S. aureus, which causes acne. 

How To Use Castor Oil

As mentioned earlier, you can incorporate castor oil in various creams, lotions, or oil combinations. Because it is thick, you may want to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it on your face. Alternatively, you can dip a cotton ball in castor oil and gently dab it on the face and neck. In circular motions, gently massage the areas of application for three to five minutes before washing your face with a mild cleanser. 

Risk Factors Of Castor Oil Use On The Face

When testing any new oil on the skin, you run the risk of irritation. One study found that undiluted castor oil caused severe irritation on rabbit skin, while only causing mild irritation on rat and guinea pig skin. In human trials, castor oil wasn’t found as a skin irritant. That said, people with sensitive skin or occupational dermatoses (a form or skin inflammation) may experience skin irritation. Castor oil may also cause eye irritation and discomfort if it gets in your eye, so be careful when using castor oil on the face. A few tips to follow include:

• Always do a patch test: This rule applies to any new oil or skin care product you have concerns about. Test a small amount of the oil on your hand or arm and allow it to sit for 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.
• Check the label: The preservatives in castor oil may cause irritation. Always read the label to check the ingredients, as not all oils are created equal. Choose oils that are cold-pressed organic without any additives.

SHARE:

The post 5 Benefits Of Castor Oil For The Face appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a serious condition that can impact various systems in the body. As a long-term illness, CFS can put a strain on daily activities and can occasionally confine people to their beds. It can also affect relationships with friends and family, especially if it goes undiagnosed or untreated. 

According to an Institute of Medicine report, roughly 836,000 Americans suffer from CFS, which health experts deem a debilitating illness. It manifests with a lack of energy and motivation, and women are two to four times more likely than men to develop the condition. 

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis is characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for more than six months. This type of fatigue is not usually the explanation of an underlying condition; rather, it is the condition, which is the problem. One of the disease’s primary challenges is the fact that it is very difficult to diagnose with lab tests. Some health experts believe that it is closely related to adrenal fatigue or system-wide inflammation. 

CFS can worsen after engaging in certain activities that require physical or mental energy. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can appear or disappear without warning. To properly diagnose the condition, doctors have to rule out potential underlying diseases or conditions. If untreated, CFS can decrease memory, concentration, and overall stamina. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help naturally overcome the condition. In fact, various studies indicate that acupuncture, magnesium, meditation, and other natural treatments show promise as treatment options. We will detail these options below. 

Increase Your Vitamin B Intake

One study in the Journal of Royal Society of Medicine noted a direct link between lower vitamin B levels and CFS. The study focused on thiamine, vitamin B6, and riboflavin, and researchers believe that B6 (pyridoxine) is very important. Vitamin B6 is in both plant- and animal-based foods, including bananas, sweet potatoes, hazelnuts, cooked spinach, garlic, grass-fed/grass-finished beef, tuna, and salmon. It works to encourage a healthy immune system and may prevent or even relieve fatigue. B6 also supports T-cell functioning, allowing your immune system to fight infections more efficiently.

Methylation is the term given to the bodily process where methyl compounds are used in critical functions in the body. These functions include immune function, energy production, nerve function, detoxification, inflammation, mood, and DNA. Methylation requires vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate, so that the body can function at a cellular level. If you are vitamin B12 deficient, the methylation process is impaired and can cause numerous problems that contribute to CFS. Roughly 40% of Americans have B12 deficiency, and many symptoms mirror those of CFS. For these reasons, increasing your intake of B vitamins may help treat CFS symptoms, improving mood, supporting metabolic function, and more. 

Try to Rest And Relax

Your drive to do things when you have CFS can be very low because the condition debilitates mental and physical function. Ironically enough, suffering from persistent exhaustion can take quite a toll on the body and psyche, but it primarily causes stress. In order to rest and relax, you have to do more than just sleep and lounge on the couch. First off, fight stress and anxiety with exercise, even if it is difficult to do so with CFS. Research shows that high-intensity workouts help improve mental clarity, fight depression, and reduce stress in people with CFS. Another study recommended that people with CFS perform aerobic activities for five to 15 minutes daily to help diminish stress. It is also wise to unplug from technology, reducing time in front of computers, tablets, phones, and laptops, especially 90 minutes before bed. A recent study found that people with CFS tend to have poor sleep. Winding down without screens one hour prior to bedtime showed improvements in sleep quality. 

Eliminate Food Sensitivities

According to a recent study, there is a link between CFS and fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Researchers were surprised to learn that 85% of patients, who had been referred for unexplained digestive problems, qualified for CFS. The common thread in this study was poor digestion and food sensitivities. One of today’s most common food sensitivities is gluten intolerance, with lactose intolerance residing near the top of the food sensitivity list. Because common allergies and food sensitivities may contribute to CFS development, health experts recommend taking an IgG (immunoglobulin G) test to determine food sensitivities. Once you rid those foods from your diet for at least three weeks, you’ll be able to notice if symptoms improve. As a note, m, make sure to add a Candida albicans test to your IgG test. One study found that participants with CFS who followed an anti-Candida diet experienced an improvement in symptoms.

SHARE:

The post 3 Ways To Overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Yeast has played a role in the human diet for thousands of years. It is a fungus that is vital for making bread, beer, and numerous other foods. In recent years, people have focused on a specific type of yeast called nutritional yeast, especially vegans. The nutritional content may help boost energy levels, enhance immune function, and protect from cellular damage that leads to disease. 

What Is Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast comes from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast species. Brewers yeast, which some people use interchangeably with nutritional yeast, is not the same thing, although it is similar. Manufacturers can grow nutritional yeast in numerous sources, including sugar beets, blackstrap molasses, and whey. It is typically gluten-free and always dairy-free, but it offers a cheesy flavor, so vegans often use it as a cheese replacement, or to achieve maximum cheesiness. It provides a long list of vitamins, minerals, and protein, and one-quarter cup of nutritional yeast has the following nutritional profile:

• Calories: 60
• Fiber: 3 grams (g)
• Protein: 8 g
• Thiamine (vitamin B1): 11.85 milligrams (mg)
• Vitamin B6: 5.9 mg
• Vitamin B2: 9.7 mg
• Vitamin B12: 17.6 micrograms (mcg)

Great Source Of Vitamin B12

One of the biggest concerns for people following a vegan diet is that they don’t get enough vitamin B12. This vitamin is crucial to keeping nerve cells and your blood healthy. Vitamin B12 works to make DNA and prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that causes weakness and fatigue. For vegans, the most reliable source of vitamin B12 is nutritional yeast, or a B12 supplement. A mere two teaspoons of nutritional yeast satisfies 313% of the daily value (DV) of vitamin B12. 

Holds Antiviral And Antibacterial Properties

According to Dr. Seymour Pomper, a yeast expert, nutritional yeast is the fourth most prescribed herbal mono-preparation in Germany. The reason for this is because it exhibits impressive antiviral and antibacterial activity. Dr. Pomper notes that ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, and St. John’s wort are consumed in higher amounts, though. Nutritional yeast has not been associated with the Candida albicans strain, which is related to yeast infections. That is why it may help relieve chronic symptoms of candida. It may also minimize the effects of E. coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus infections. 

Supports Healthy Pregnancy

In addition to the impressive vitamin B12 content, nutritional yeast also contains other B vitamins, including riboflavin, thiamine, folate, and vitamin B6. While these vitamins work to encourage healthy nerve function and cell metabolism, they also ensure a healthy pregnancy. Folate is especially important for a healthy pregnancy, as it helps reduce the risk of birth defects by optimizing fetal growth and development. In fact, several studies show that low folate levels during pregnancy were linked to preterm delivery, low birth weight, and neural tube defects. 

May Boost Immune Health

Nutritional yeast contains alpha mannan and beta glucan, two important carbohydrates that may offer antifungal and antibacterial properties. Animal studies confirm these findings, but more human research is necessary to determine if they may safeguard your body from infections. Beta glucan works by activating immune cells and targeting the gut microbiome to support immunity. 

Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels

An eight-week study observed men with high cholesterol to see if nutritional yeast could help lower total cholesterol. Participants took 15 mg of yeast derived beta glucan daily and results indicated a 6% decrease in total cholesterol levels. More research showed that beta glucan, which exists in other foods, has cholesterol-lowering abilities. In fact, beta glucan from oats significantly lowered cholesterol levels in several studies. More research on beta glucan from nutritional yeast is needed to confirm these results from oat beta glucan. 

Boosts Energy Levels

Some manufacturers fortify nutritional yeast with vitamin B12, but do your best to seek out the ones that are not fortified. Vitamin B12 may help boost energy levels, as a common sign of B12 deficiency is fatigue and weakness. Adults need about 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 every day, and two teaspoons satisfies this amount and more. If you are a vegan and find that your energy levels seem low all the time, consider adding nutritional yeast to your diet and see if you notice an improvement in overall energy.

SHARE:

The post The Top 6 Health Benefits Of Nutritional Yeast appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, so we wanted to give you some information about women’s health and helpful tips to help women reach optimum health. While this article is not about ovarian cancer, we feel that it is imperative to inform women about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that involves imbalanced estrogen and progesterone levels in women.  This imbalance can lead to ovarian cysts, which are benign masses on the ovaries.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that about 1 in 20 women of childbearing age has PCOS, and that the condition affects roughly five million women in America.  PCOS can also affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, cardiovascular health, and fertility.

Symptoms

Women with PCOS will typically experience mild symptoms at first.  Some of the common adverse side effects of PCOS include, but are not limited to, amennorhea (no menstrual period), dysmenorrheal, infertility, acne, pelvic pain, and high blood pressure.  The symptoms may vary from person to person, but common symptoms may include:

• Deeper voice
• Acne
• Irregular periods
• Hair loss
• More hair growth on face, chest, stomach, or toes
• Decrease in breast size
• Weight gain
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility
• Depression

What Causes PCOS?

Medical professionals are still unsure of the exact cause of PCOS, but it is thought that genetics may play a large role in the development of the condition.  It is a common belief that hormonal imbalances also play a large role as well.  The overproduction of androgen, which is a male sex hormone that women’s bodies also produce, is thought to be another contributing factor.  PCOS patients often have excess levels of androgen.  Some possible causes are listed below.

• Diabetes
• Genetics
• Imbalanced hormones
• Excess insulin
• Low-grade inflammation
• Excess androgen production

Natural Remedies For PCOS

It is important to note that it takes about 6-12 months of lifestyle and diet changes, in addition to the natural remedies listed below, to see positive change when living with PCOS.

• The body thrives on foods that are nutritionally dense, so it makes sense to eat foods that will nourish your body, especially when you have a condition like PCOS.  It is best to consume plant-based foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.  Try to avoid eating processed foods like white flour, high fructose corn syrup, meat, pasta, added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and canola oil.  You should notice a change in how your body feels when consume a plant-based diet.
• Irregular menstrual cycles are common in women with PCOS.  It is beneficial to eat foods that have iron and magnesium because they help to build healthy blood, which is necessary for regular menstruation.  Raw cacao is a great source of both iron and magnesium.  You can also eat foods like avocados, bananas, hibiscus tea, apple cider vinegar, leafy greens, beans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and broccoli, among others.
• Licorice root helps the body to maintain balanced hormone levels because it promotes healthy production and release.  Additionally, licorice root can also help to support a healthy liver and healthy insulin levels, which is an integral part of naturally remedying PCOS.
• Eat foods that are low on the glycemic index and glycemic load list.  Low glycemic index foods are carbohydrates that slowly break down in the body, meaning that you don’t have a spike or drop in your insulin levels.  If you have insulin resistant PCOS and are overweight, try not to eat more than a half-cup of low glycemic carbs a day.  Great examples of these low glycemic foods include kale, grapefruit, walnuts, almonds, apples, beans, lentils, and asparagus.
• Stop drinking coffee because caffeine increases estrogen levels.  A recent study found that eating two cups of coffee a day boosts estradiol (a natural estrogen) levels.  If you drink 4-5 cups a day, you produce 70% more estrogen during the follicular phase of menstruation.  Since women with PCOS can have difficulty producing a viable follicle for ovulation, try to avoid coffee and caffeine in general.
• Try drinking an apple cider vinegar tonic because apple cider vinegar helps to maintain balanced pH levels in the body, while helping to inhibit bacteria, candida, or yeast build-up.  You can make a tonic that consists of 1-2 tablespoons of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of filtered water.  Drink this first thing in the morning before consuming food.
• A lot of people enjoy doing high-intensity exercise routines.  Rather than doing that, it may be beneficial to try stress-reducing exercises such as Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi, biking, walking, swimming, or barre class.

SHARE:

The post 6 Natural Remedies For Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Yeast infections can be embarrassing, even though they are extremely common. While it is more common for women (roughly affecting 75% of women at some point in life) to develop yeast infections, men can also develop them. Most yeast infections are caused by the Candida albicans organism, which can induce severe itchiness, redness, or a white discharge.

One of the best ways, specifically for women, to discourage yeast development is to keep the vaginal area dry and clean. Try to wear loose clothing, wear cotton underwear, and practice good hygiene. If you have a yeast infection, make sure that you don’t share towels with anyone because that can spread the infection. Because yeast infections can be treated naturally, try the holistic remedies below and let us know how they work for you.

Aloe Vera

Because aloe vera has antifungal properties, it is one of the best natural remedies for combating yeast infections. If possible, try to use fresh aloe vera so that you don’t have to deal with preservatives, additives, or chemicals. Take 1 tablespoon of aloe vera twice a day and you can apply fresh aloe topically to the affected area until it heals.

Manuka Honey

While yeast feeds on sugar, Manuka honey has antifungal properties that work well to fight off a yeast infection. Apply a liberal tablespoon of Manuka honey topically twice a day until symptoms go away.

Garlic

You’ll think that garlic has superpowers, if you don’t already think that, after you use it as a natural remedy. Eating 2-3 garlic cloves per meal can be beneficial, but you can also insert a garlic clove vaginally. We aren’t going to lie: this can burn. If you are sensitive then avoid that method and add garlic to juices or meals instead.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can help rid the body of the infection by creating a more alkaline environment. Don’t worry, you don’t have to use this vaginally. Mix 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of filtered water and drink that three times a day until the infection goes away.

Coconut Oil

If you are experiencing burning or itching, you can apply coconut oil topically to provide relief. You can also ingest 1-2 tablespoons of organic, virgin coconut oil to attack the infection from the inside.

Probiotics

Probiotics promote healthy gut flora and help to boost the immune system. Some of the best probiotic foods to eat include kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, fermented vegetables, and kefir. Make sure to read the ingredient list to ensure the probiotics don’t have sugar.

SHARE:

The post Home Remedies For Yeast Infections That Work Instantly appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Staying true to an anti-candida diet can almost feel like a chore. It can also get a little boring. This is why it is important to get creative with your food in order to make it interesting. We tell that to people who are participating in our cleanses when they tell us about the raw food diet. You can do a lot of things with fresh fruits and vegetables, and one of the easiest ways to change up flavors is by making smoothies.

You may be thinking, “How do I make a good smoothie when I have to avoid fruit?” Depending on the severity and type of candida you have, you can indulge in the occasional small serving of fruit. It is important to make sure that you choose fruits that are low in sugar. It will bum you out to know that you can’t use bananas. Sorry about that.

It’s important that you try to steer clear of the foods that played a role in the development of your candida. While it may be difficult, it makes sense to avoid the foods that don’t promote natural healing. Rather than worsening the condition, help your body by giving it foods that benefit it!

You will find that there are many options available to make your smoothies taste great. Chia seeds, unsweetened homemade almond milk, flaxseeds, stevia, cinnamon, or ginger are just a few of the many options at your disposal. You can make variations of this candida-friendly smoothie and let us know which one you like best.

Ingredients You Can Use

• 12-16oz homemade, unsweetened almond milk
• 1-2 cups greens of your choice (kale, spinach, collard greens, romaine, Swiss chard, or 1-2 tsp. spirulina)
• 1-2 Tbsp. fat of your choice (coconut oil, flaxseed oil, almond butter, or ½ avocado)
• ¼ cup low sugar fruit (strawberries, blueberries, lime, fresh coconut, green apple, and kiwi)
• 1 Tbsp. thickener (flaxseed meal, chia seeds, or ½ cup ice)
• A little bit of flavoring (stevia, cinnamon, fresh mint, ginger, nutmeg, or agave)

A Sample, Candida-Friendly Smoothie

• 16 ounces homemade almond milk
• 1 cup spinach
• ½ avocado
• ¼ cup strawberries
• 1 Tbsp. chia seeds
• ¼ tsp. cinnamon
• stevia to taste

Instructions

• Place everything in a blender and blend until you get a smooth consistency. If you want to add ½ cup ice to make it chilled, go for it!

SHARE:

The post How To Make A Candida-Friendly Smoothie appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Before you reach for that pill, with all its nasty side effects, consider trying a prescription alternative.

Alexander Fleming, discoverer of penicillin, warned us nearly a century ago that the overuse of antibiotics would create resistant bacteria. In fact, antibiotics are a major cause of recurrent infections, and our overuse of them is breeding highly resistant strains of “superbugs” that are immune to all known types of antibiotics. To add insult to injury, we have lost the war on infectious diseases, even with all these antibiotics and better hygiene.

By using antibiotics as a cure-all, the magic bullet has come back to hit us. Every time we take antibiotics, we give harmful bacteria a new opportunity to become resistant. The consequence is that many antibiotics are useless. An increasingly common scenario in American hospitals is a hospitalized patient who gets a hospital-based staph infection or pneumonia that is totally resistant to antibiotics. People with antibiotic-resistant diseases often die.

Clearly we need to find other ways to fight infections and to support our immune systems when we get sick. Antibiotics should only be used as a final resort in fighting a potentially life-threatening infection. Before he or she prescribes an antibiotic, your physician should do a culture to find out (1) if bacteria are present, and if so, (2) what strain of bacteria is present and thus what type of antibiotic to give you. Avoid wide-spectrum antibiotics whenever possible.

Here are some natural alternatives to prescription antibiotics:

Grapefruit Seed Extract

A grapefruit bioflavonoid concentrate works well to help knock out a cold. Grapefruit seed extract is a product you can use if you feel an infection coming on. You can take one 100 mg tablet every four to five hours or a few drops of the liquid. There are also anecdotal reports from women that grapefruit seed extract will effectively cure urinary tract infections.

Echinacea

The herb echinacea, sometimes combined with goldenseal in formulas, is an effective immune stimulant, but works best when used early on in an infection. Some people are allergic to it, so if you take a dose and feel worse, stop taking it!

Olive Leaves

Olive leaves have been used medicinally for centuries to treat fever, malaria, colds, and fungal infections. Modern research shows that a bitter constituent of olive leaves called oleuropein has antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal effects. The best way to take olive leaf as a supplement is as an extract in capsule or liquid form.

Homeopathic Remedies

Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic remedy I recommend for preventing and relieving the symptoms of the flu. This is a great remedy to travel with and to keep in the medicine cabinet, as it can quickly knock out a flu.

Chinese Herbal Remedies

Yin Chiao is a Chinese herbal remedy that’s good for preventing colds and flus. It can actually prevent a full-blown cold if taken soon enough.

EpiCor

EpiCor is a fermented yeast product that enhances natural killer cell activity and helps modulate and strengthen the immune system. It contains a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants that research has shown to be very effective in warding off colds and flus. This is a supplement that can be taken daily during cold and flu season as a preventive.

Elderberries

American Indians have a long history of using Elderberries, primarily for the treatment of infections. Elderberries contain anti-inflammatory bioflavonoids that have been shown in test tube studies to inhibit viral growth. Specifically, elderberry flavonoids can stifle the activity of a protein needed by the flu virus to multiply and spread. It’s no surprise that elderberry is especially effective against viral infections such as the flu and the common cold.

Vitamins

Take vitamin C to tolerance, and take vitamin A (10,000 to 15,000 IU a day) for up to two weeks.

Infections And Antibiotics

Many people think that you can kill the germ with an antibiotic, and your infection problem is solved. For the past 50 years, this is how conventional medicine has been treating patients. But 98% of those infections would have become better with some very basic care, like rest and fluids. Antibiotics do nothing to get rid of a virus when you have a cold or the flu.

Here are some thoughts about common infections:

* Children’s Ear Infections

Recent studies have found that antibiotics make little to no difference in the course that children’s ear infections take. Many children have had multiple courses of antibiotics for recurrent ear infections before they’ve passed through toddlerhood, and this just sets children up for weakened immunity and more infections. Watchful waiting and allowing the infection to resolve naturally–along with children’s echinacea, a multivitamin, vitamin C, and a no-sugar, no-refined-carbohydrate diet–may stop the cycle of repeat infections in children.

* Internal Fungal Infections

Candida is a common fungus that grows out of control in many people, thanks to too many antibiotics and too much sugar. Your best strategy for fighting a fungal infection is to boost your body’s natural resources as much as possible, so that your own “good” bacteria can fight off the candida. It’s extremely important to eliminate sugar from your diet if you’re fighting a candida infection, and it helps to eliminate or cut back on fermented foods such as beer, wine, vinegar, aged cheeses, and anything made with yeast. Grapefruit seed extract, garlic oil, and oregano oil are all very effective antifungals. It’s certainly worth giving them a try before taking a potent antifungal drug. And be sure to take probiotics to enhance your body’s production of its own “good” bacteria.

Resisting Infection

One of the keys to resisting an infection is to begin helping your body fight it as soon as you are aware it’s there. We all know the symptoms: fatigue, achiness, sore throat, swollen glands, runny nose, cough, and fever. If you have a sore throat and ignore it, stay up late, and eat a bowl of ice cream, it’s bound to get worse. If you gargle with salt water, go to bed early with a cup of chamomile tea, and avoid sugary foods, chances are it will be gone by morning.

Here are some simple, specific steps you can take to stay free of infections:

* Wash Your Hands

If you have been around people with colds or the flu, keep your hands away from your face and wash your hands before eating. Don’t, however, be fooled into thinking that all of those antibacterial household cleansers and soaps are going to protect you. It has been found that the bacteria-busting chemicals they contain create an ideal environment for the formation of resistant bacteria. Soap and water works just fine for the hands, and vinegar (dilute and put in a spray bottle) is the perfect kitchen cleaner.

* Gargle

If you’re coming down with a sore throat, one of the simplest and most effective solutions is to gargle with a germ-killing mouthwash (make sure the gargle reaches your throat) or a simple salt water solution (1 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water). A sore throat is often caused by mucus from the sinuses dripping down the back of the throat, so giving that area an antibacterial bath can work wonders. There are some herbal throat sprays on the market that are excellent for banishing throat infections.

* Sinus Rinse

Sinus rinse is a great remedy for an encroaching sinus infection. Rinse the sinuses with a salt water solution (1 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda per 1 cup of water). This remedy takes some discipline and focus, and it’s not recommended for most children. The best tool for the job is called a neti pot, which looks like a little teapot with a spout that is made for rinsing the sinuses. You can buy a traditional ceramic neti pot or get the plastic version at the drugstore. Mix the solution of salt and baking soda in the neti pot. Tip your head sideways, and insert the spout gently into one of your nostrils. If you hold the spout at the right angle, the water will flow in one nostril and out the other. The real experts allow the water to flow in one nostril and out the mouth, but this can cause gagging if you swallow some of the water. This technique can work wonders for a stubborn sinus infection.

* Avoid Sugar and Alcohol

As your body fights infection, it helps to eat wholesome, healthy foods. Sugar and alcohol suppress the immune system and can make it harder for your body to do its job.

* Extra Vitamin C

Vitamin C can help fight infections and viruses. If you take 1,000 to 2,000 mg every three to four hours as soon as you feel a cold coming on, drink plenty of water, and avoid sugar, you can often knock the cold out before it ever gets started. Vitamin C will work even better if you combine it with bioflavonoids.

* Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a powerful infection-fighter. It is an immune stimulant that boosts thymus gland function and helps maintain healthy cells in your mucus membranes. You can take 10,000 to 30,000 IU daily for a week to help fight off an infection. (If you’re pregnant, don’t take more than 10,000 IU daily.)

* Zinc and Selenium

Zinc and Selenium are your two most important infection-fighting minerals. A wide variety of lozenges are available at your health food store that contain zinc, selenium, and vitamin C. Pass on those with a lot of sugar.

* Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for a healthy immune system. People who don’t get out in the sun or who have long, gray winters should take at least 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily.

* Allow a Fever to Run Its Course

Bacteria are adverse to high temperatures, which is why we sometimes get a fever when we get infections. This is why it’s important to not bring down a fever unless it’s dangerously high. The fever is the very thing that will kill the bacteria or virus that’s making you sick. In children in particular, a fever is part of the body’s mechanism for training the immune system to recognize hostile bacteria and viruses and forming antibodies that will recognize them in the future. If you suppress the fever with acetaminophen (Tylenol), your child could be more likely to get sick again the next time the bug comes to visit.

Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., is an internationally recognized expert on nutrition, drugs, vitamins, and herbal remedies. He is the author of more than 20 books and is a registered pharmacist, master herbalist, and a professor of nutrition at Pacific Western University in Los Angeles. Dr. Mindell has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Live with Regis and Kathy Lee, Good Morning America, The David Letterman Show and CNN, in addition to conducting more than 300 radio and television interviews annually. he conducts nutritional seminars around the world and lives in Beverly Hills, California.

VIRGINIA HOPKINS, M.A., is the editor of the email newsletter “The Virginia Hopkins Health Watch,” and has an extensive website of articles about bioidentical hormones, nutrition and prescription alternatives at Virginia Hopkins Test Kits.

She is the co-author, with John R. Lee, M.D. of the best-selling and classic book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause.

Hopkins and Lee also co-authored the books What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About PREmenopause, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You about Breast Cancer, and Dr. John Lee’s Hormone Balance Made Simple.

Hopkins also co-authored the best-seller, Prescription Alternatives, which with Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D.

Hopkins has been a writer and editor since she graduated from Yale University in 1976. She has a masters degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Santa Monica.

Find out more about Dr. Earl Mindell @ www.drearlmindell.com and Virginia Hopkins, M.A. www.virginiahopkinstestkits.com

Dherbs Solutions

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D
• Zinc Formula
• Elderberry Tea
• Immune Booster Kit
• Immune Formula
• Immune Tea
• Anti-V Cleanse and Regimen
• Anti-V Formula
• Anti-V Tea

SHARE:

The post Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Candia albicans, also known as ‘candidiasis’ and ‘candida vaginitis‘ is a type of yeast infection. It inhibits the mucous membranes of genital tract (especially the female vagina), intestines, mouth (called ‘thrush’), throat and esophagus.

Systemic yeast (infection) is when the blood contains yeast and thus carries the yeast throughout the body. This is the form of yeast that goes undetected in many people. Normally the micro-organistic fungus lives in a healthy balance with other flora or bacteria in the body, but certain conditions such as acidosis disrupt the balance and cause the fungus to multiply.

Most candida problems occur with women in the vagina. When the vagina is infected by yeast, the result is called ‘vaginitis.’

Symptoms and Causes

Vaginitis causes inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina and is characterized by a large, white, thick, cheesy discharge and excruciating itching and burning.

The greatest culprit in causing candida or yeast infection is antibiotic medication prescribed by doctors. Antibiotics weaken the immune (defense) system and destroy ‘friendly’ or ‘beneficial’ bacteria that normally keep candida under control in the body.

All vaginal orders are First chakra disorders. The First chakra deals with ‘grounding.’ If you are not firmly grounded in your sexual belief system and orientation, you create an imbalance in your sexual reproductive system energy in general and your vaginal energy in particular.

Effects of Yeast Infections

Because vaginal disorders impede sexual activity, it is the body’s way of making a women stop or pause temporarily so as to concentrate on her mind, body, and emotions so as to address problems.

Males can also contract yeast infections. Candida infection in males manifests as jock itch or athlete’s foot.

Babies too also suffer from yeast infection, commonly oral thrush, white sores that form on the tongue and gums and also inside the cheeks.

Oral thrush can also manifest on the baby’s buttocks, manifesting as diaper rash.

Natural Alternatives

Natural alternatives to pharmaceutical grade antibiotic medication include the following herbs:

• Echinacea
• Garlic
• Goldenseal
• Myrrh Gum
• St. John’s Wort
• Marshmallow
• Lomatium

Antifungal herbs include:

• Black Walnut Hulls
• Garlic
• Neem
• Wormwood

Bee propolis is also antifungal in nature, although it’s not vegan.

Essential oils (plant blood) that are antifungal in nature include:

• Clove
• Kanuka
• Manuka
• Oregano
• Pink Pepper
• Rosewood, and
• Tagetes

Add a few drops (1-3 drops) of these oils to your bath water.

Dietary Intervention

A healthy diet needs to be adapted, preferably vegan and/or raw foods (or a combination of both). Meat, dairy products, processed and refined so-called foods must go.

Yeast thrives in sugar. Eliminate processed and refined sugar from the diet and it’s harder for yeast to take hold. Herbs that can help you to kick the sugar habit include:

• Stevia
• Gymnema sylvestre
• Licorice, and
• Cinnamon

Lifestyle changes need to be made. You must adapt a healthier lifestyle. Become mobile (yoga, tai chi, qi chong, pilates, swimming, etc.). Wear loose fit clothing so your body can breathe. Embrace a positive, healthy, and loving mindset. All negative emotions and feelings (anger, envy, bitterness, jealousy, hatred, etc.) must be released and transmuted into positive energy.

Abstain from sex, including oral sex, until the yeast infection has cleared up. Give the vagina time to heal so that sex can be pleasurable and healthy.

Dherbs Solutions

For chronic vaginal yeast infection, try:

• Full Body Cleanse
• 10-Day Candida Cleanse
• Total Female Cleanse
• (3 capsules 2-3 times daily) Flora Balance
• (3 capsules every morning) is a good preventative and maintenance formula Sugar Control

To knock out an insidious yeast infection within 3-5 days:

• Take 5 capsules of Flora Balance every 2-3 hours for 3-5 days.
• Only eat raw foods like salad. Drink plenty of vegetable juice throughout the day (3-5 times). Order the Full Body Cleanse Companion (ebook)for additional raw foods and vegetable juice recipes.
• Bathe in sea salt (2 boxes), 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide, and Tea Tree Oil (5-8 drops) daily.
• Perform an enema every other day. The enema solution should be herbal (consisting of Black Walnuts, Echinacea, and Goldenseal, and Cascara Sagrada). Make a tea of these herbs and pour the tea in your enema bag (if you use loose herbs, make sure you strain the tea first).
• If you choose to do douching due to severe itching and inflammation, make a tea consisting of Red Raspberry Leaf, Marshmallow, Slippery Elm Bark, Mullein leaf, and Lemon Verbena, and add in 3 drops of Tea Tree Oil.

SHARE:

The post Candida Albicans: Yeast Infection appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

What Are Alternative Lab Tests?

Specialty lab tests are diagnostic tools used primarily by holistic medical doctors and naturopathic physicians to assess the functional status of the body. Functional testing assesses the dynamic interrelationship of physiological systems, thereby creating a more complete picture of one’s health.

Why can’t my medical doctor order these tests?

Conventional medicine uses lab tests specifically to diagnose the disease. According to this method, once the disease has been identifies, the treatment (drugs or surgery) is clear. Medical doctors are taught to use standard lab tests solely for the purpose of diagnosing diseases, and insurance companies will only pay for lab tests used for that purpose.

Why do I need these specialty lab tests?

Specialty lab tests were designed to determine the underlying cause of disease, which is often due to nutritional deficiency or environmental toxicity. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of disease is a fundamental principle of naturopathic medicine.

Specialty lab tests are available to help identify the underlying cause of disease so that a specific nutritional protocol can be developed to address that cause. Many people are dissatisfied with the drug and surgical treatments used by conventional medicine. They are concerned about the side effects of their medications and are looking for alternatives. Specialty lab tests and functional assessments are primarily used by natural health practitioners that offer alternatives to conventional medical treatments.

Are these tests covered by my insurance?

Unfortunately insurance companies are set up specifically to reduce the cost of medicine. One of the major ways that this is accomplished is by not paying for what they consider to be unnecessary lab testing. Since specialty lab tests are not accepted by conventional medicine, most insurance companies will not pay for them.

Which specialty lab tests do I need?

There are over 100 specialty lab tests that are available, including

Digestive Function Tests

Naturopaths consider proper digestion to be an essential component of health. There are many tests of digestive function, including: The Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis, The Digestive Function Analysis, The Intestinal Permeability Assessment, The Comprehensive Parasitology Profile, Bacterial Overgrowth of the Small Intestine Breath Test, Anti-Gliadin Antibody Assay, The Helicobacter pylori Antibody Assay, and the Lactose Intolerance Breath Test.

Candida Tests

There are tests specific for candida: The Candida Antibody Test, The Anti-Candida Antibody Test, and The Candida Intensive Culture.

Endocrine Tests

There are several tests of endocrine function, including The Adrenocortex Stress Profile, The Comprehensive Thyroid Assessment, The Glucose and Insulin Tolerance Test, The Comprehensive Melatonin Profile, and the DHEA tests.

Allergy Testing

The Comprehensive Allergy (Antibody) Profile assays blood for immediate and delayed reactions to 96 combined foods or 100 vegetarian foods, and 36 region-specific inhalants.

The Cotinine Assay examines urine to determine the presence of cotinine, a nicotine metabolite, which is an indicator of exposure to second-hand smoke. This test is useful in cases of recurrent infections or allergy in children of smokers.

Hormonal Testing

There are several hormone panels that measure a variety of hormones, including all three estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, sex-hormone-binding globulin, and hydroxyestrogens. Hormone panels include: The Female Hormone Profile, The Menopause Profile, The Women’s Hormonal Health Assessment, The Estrogen Metabolism Assessment, and The Male Hormone Profile.

The IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 or Somatomedin C) test is a valuable tool to evaluate growth hormone status.

The Bone Resorption Assessment is a simple, direct urinary assay of pyridinium and deoxypyridinium cross-links, useful in identifying current bone loss, lytic bone disease, and efficacy of bone support therapies.

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Assessment

The Comprehensive Cardiovascular Assessment analyzes blood for levels of HDL, LDL and total cholesterol, ratios, triglycerides, lipoprotein(a), homocysteine, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, fibrinogen, and C-reactive protein. Together, these markers provide a thorough assessment of cardiovascular health status.

Detoxification Tests

Detoxification is a cornerstone of naturopathic therapies. The Detoxification Profile assesses the body’s capacity to carry out detoxification. The Oxidative Stress Analysis identifies markers of hydroxyl radical activity, urine lipid peroxides, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. The Anti-Chemical Antibodies Profile assays blood for systemic exposure and sensitivity to formaldehyde, tremolitic anhydride, toluene, phthalic anhydride and benzene ring.

Metabolic Testing

The Metabolic Analysis Profile assesses urine metabolites to evaluate four critical areas of metabolism: gastrointestinal function, cellular energy production, neurotransmitter processing, and amino acid-organic acid balance. Test results can be used to address chronic systemic complaints: fatigue and mood disorders to headaches, muscular/joint pain, and digestive problems.

The Cellular Energy Profile evaluates organic acids that play a pivotal role in the generation of cell energy. The test can reveal metabolic distress associated generalized pain and fatigue, which may arise in response to toxic exposure, nutrient imbalances, digestive dysfunction and other causes. Plants synthesize and store energy from sunlight and nutrients. How efficiently the human body recovers this energy from plants or animals that eat plants can have a profound effect on physiological function.

Heavy Metal Testing

There are several lab tests for heavy metals. The Hair Elemental Analysis examines hair samples for levels of toxic and nutrient elements. The Total Element Clearance Profile measures urinary excretion of 9 nutrient elements and 20 toxic metals, including “classic” toxins such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, as well as newer technology toxins such as niobium and gadolinium. The Elemental Analysis, Provocative Challenge evaluates urine for 10 toxic and 8 nutrient minerals before and after administration of chelating agents. This test is used to evaluate mineral levels and to monitor the effectiveness of chelation therapy.

Nutritional Testing

Several nutritional panels include The Vitamin Profile, The Amino Acids Analysis, and The Essential and Metabolic Fatty Acids Analysis.

Finding the Cause of Disease with Specialty Lab Tests

The selection of which lab tests are appropriate for a specific person is the focus of my book Finding the Cause of Disease with Specialty Lab Tests. It describes many of the alternative medical tests and contains information on over 100 diseases, including a comprehensive list of the causes of that disease, and a list of the alternative lab tests which can be used to identify the specific cause underlying the disease.

Where can I order these specialty lab tests?

These specialty lab tests are available only to naturopathic and alternative medical doctors.

About the Author

Ronald Steriti graduated from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, a four-year full-time Naturopathic medical school. Dr. Steriti assists people to regain and maintain their health using botanical medicine (herb)s, classical homeopathy and clinical nutrition to support their body’s natural healing abilities. Dr. Steriti offers consultations by phone and invites you to call (239) 659-2684 to discuss your specific health needs today!

Dr. Steriti offers natural health consultations by phone and can order these alternative medical test kits to be sent to your home.

Ronald Steriti graduated from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, a four-year full-time accredited Naturopathic medical school. He also has a Doctorates Degree in Electrical Engineering. Dr. Steriti assists people to regain and maintain their health using herbs, homeopathy and nutrition to support their body’s natural healing abilities. He has a private practice in Naples, Florida and invites you to call him and discuss your health needs.

Dherbs Solutions:

• Full Body Cleanse
• Full Body Cleanse Tea
• Alternative Diet and Lifestyle Manual

SHARE:

The post FEATURE: Specialty Alternative Medical Lab Tests appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Candida Albicans or a yeast infection, both digestive and systemic, is a health problem of which answers to its elimination are far and few between. Literally millions of men and women have a potential yeast infection that is causing, directly or indirectly, a significant number of health problems or conditions.

Candida Albicans is a destructive yeast infection that begins in the digestive system and little by little spreads to other parts of the body. Candida is present in all of us not long after birth. Typically, this yeast remain in a healthful balance with the other bacteria and yeasts within the intestinal tract. Under certain conditions, such as excessive stress, lowered immunity or the long-term use of steroids, the candida yeast can multiply, thus disrupting the gastrointestinal “terrain”. Candida overgrowth may also be a consequence of antibiotic treatment, as antibiotics not only kill pathogens but also a large number of those bacteria that are part of a healthy gastrointestinal flora. With the depletion of the beneficial protective flora in the intestinal tract and a weakened immune response, this opportunistic yeast can then spread and multiply beyond the intestinal tract affecting every organ in the body. In babies, an overgrowth of candida appears as diaper rash. It can also be found on the body as jock itch or athlete’s foot. It can appear in the mouth as thrush or in the vaginal tract, known by many women as a yeast infection. Systemic yeast is now being associated with a variety of conditions ranging from mental disorders, deranged immune system, food intolerance, gastric upsets, premenstrual tension, infertility, ovarian failure, sexual function difficulties and fatigue. It can manifest with a multitude of symptoms including constipation, diarrhea, colitis, headaches, bad breath, mood swings, canker sores, muscle and joint pain, congestion, severe itching, PMS, fatigue, kidney or bladder infections to name a few. It is estimated that 30% of the population suffer from health issues directly related to yeast. In fact, the majority of people who have Candida do not realize they have it until become seriously ill.

Recommendations For Wellness

1. Avoid all yeast containing foods: Yeast breads, fermented beverages (beer, wine, brandy, scotch, etc.) moldy cheeses, fermented vinegars, salad dressing, peanuts, biscuits, canned citrus fruit juices, cake mix, ice cream, all dried fruit, oranges, pickles, tomato sauce, sugars, yeast powder, processed and smoked meats, malt products, barbecue sauce, olives, mayonnaise, chili peppers.
2. Avoid all refined carbohydrates, artificial sweeteners, hidden sugars such as those found in soft drinks, pastries, canned fruits and vegetables.
3. Rotate between at least 3 different anti-fungal herbs every 4 days to kill the candida yeast in the intestinal tract. These herbs can include Garlic, Caprylic Acid and Pau d’ Arco (Taheebo tea).
4. Supplement with Lactobacillus Acidophilus or Bifidophilus daily. This helps to reintroduce the good bacteria back into the intestinal tract.
5. Take 1 tablespoon of Flax seed or olive oil daily to improve healing and prevent the fungus from destroying cells.
6. Incorporate Echinacea to help strengthen the immune system.
7. Multivitamin & mineral complex with vitamin A to provide all the nutrients needed for proper immune function and for repair of intestinal lining. Try to select a vitamin complex that includes zinc.
8. Treat any skin yeast or fungal infection with tea tree oil.

Dr. Rita Louise of Body, Mind & SoulHealer helps people rediscover their wholeness, working with individuals on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. The author of the book entitled “The Power Within” and editor or the SoulHealer newsletter, Dr. Louise is a Naturopath, Medical Intuitive, Clairvoyant, Vibrational Healer, teacher and Lecturer.

SHARE:

The post FEATURE: Candida – It’s Not Just a Yeast Infection appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.