Posts Tagged "natural "

A fever is something that happens all the time in our bodies. It is the natural process of our immune system fighting off bacteria and viruses that could be harmful to our body. It may sometimes be possible to help with home remedies for a fever. Our normal body temperature is between 36.2oC and 37.5oC.  The body temperature changes throughout the day, with the lowest levels in the early morning and the highest at early evening. (This is assuming that the person is sleeping at night and awake during the day). A temperature over 38oC is considered to be a significant fever, and should be monitored. If the temperature rises to 39oC or higher you should seek medical help. There are many causes of a high fever but is mainly due to infection or inflammation in the body. Other causes are tropical diseases or malaria if you have recently travelled abroad. If you suspect malaria please get urgent medical help. If the high fever is accompanied with an unusual rash and stiff neck, please get urgent medical treatment. There are many home remedies that you can use to lower a mild to moderate fever. It is important to rest as much as possible. Moving around too much can lead to an increase in body temperature. Drink lots of warm water to prevent dehydration.  Do not drink cold drinks, as this can cause the body temperature to rise. This is because the body will use up energy in heating the cold water to body temperature.  Avoid eating solid foods as the process of digestion will also increase body temperature. You can eat soups, and plenty of juices and water. Wear light clothing that allows the skin to breathe. This will allow your body to cool off more efficiently. Echinacea is a herbal medicine that can be taken in the form of a tincture, tablet or a tea. Echinacea should only be taken for a period of up to three weeks and any one time. If you are taking any regular medication please consult your pharmacist, as there are some potential interactions. Garlic has been traditionally used to reduce a high fever. It is has also been shown to improve circulation...

This week is National Cholesterol Week. Cholesterol levels seem to be always on the rise, and the number of prescriptions written for statin medications reflects this increase. Cholesterol has become a common term now, with many people limiting the amount of cholesterol they consume in their diet. So can we lower cholesterol levels naturally? There are a number of factors to look at regarding lowering cholesterol levels naturally. The first is diet. A diet high in saturated fats and processed foods is a big cause of raised cholesterol. Foods that are high in omega 3 fatty acids should be included in the diet. Examples are salmon, almonds, walnuts, flax seeds and mackerel. Try and increase the amount of fibre in your diet, as this lowers the amount of cholesterol in the body. Foods such as brown rice, whole grain cereals, vegetables and fruits are good sources of fibre. You should reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet. Saturated fats are can be found in animal sources, butter and coconut oil. Hydrogenated fats (trans fatty acids) should be avoided as these can clog up the arteries. These fats are found in margarines, biscuits, cakes, refined carbohydrates and processed foods. Trans fatty acids increase levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and decrease levels of HLD (good cholesterol). Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are the two most important factors in reducing cholesterol levels. Regular exercise is a good way to keep cholesterol levels in check. This should be done in conjunction with a healthy diet. There are also a few supplements that can be taken to reduce cholesterol levels: Fish Oils and Flax seed (linseed) supplements provide an excellent source of omega 3 essential fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The recommended dose is 2 to 3 grams a day, but this can be reduced if taken alongside a diet rich in omega 3 oils. Garlic can help to lower cholesterol levels. The garlic cloves can be eaten raw or cooked to achieve the cholesterol lowering benefits. Many health companies produce garlic supplements specifically marketed at improving heart function and lowering cholesterol levels. Research has found that garlic increases the HDL/LDL ratio. The active component...

Insomnia is defined as persistant sleeplessness. It is usually only a temporary condition, and is normally related to issues such as working long hours, smoking, stress, alcohol, prescription medication, diet, anxiety or grief. Other causes of insomnia are PMS, menopause, acidity or indigestion. The choice of homeopathic remedy will be dependent on the cause of the insomnia.  Lack of good quality sleep or insomnia can lead to lack of concentration, irritability and even depression. There are no guidelines on how much sleep is enough, as some people can function on 5 hours a night while others require up to 10 hours sleep a night. Chronic insomnia may be a symptom of a serious underlying medical condition, so it would be recommended to see your G.P. Specific Homeopathic Remedies for Insomnia The indicated homeopathic remedies should be taken 1 hour before going to bed. The dose can be repeated after an hour and if woken in the middle of the night. These homeopathic remedies provide a natural alternative to conventional sleep tablets, without the side effects. The remedies should be taken in the 30c potency. The remedies mentioned below are all natural and are safe for the whole family. Coffea. This natural remedy is very good for insomnia caused by overactivity of the mind, as the result of good or bad news. It could also be due to excitement and an inability to switch off from the day. The person may be oversensitive to noise, touch, or smell. Nux vomica is the homeopathic remedy of choice if the insomnia is due to working long hours, mental strain, overindulgence in rich food or alcohol. The person may fall asleep without a problem but will awake between 3 to 4am. This remedy should be considered if the person is irritable during the day and cant switch off from work. Arsenicum Alb. This homeopathic remedy if the person wakes between midnight and 2am. The person may be generally very anxious or worried. Cocculus should be taken if the person has insomnia due to working at nights, or shift work. This homeopathic remedy is also very good to treat insomnia that is due to jet-lag. The person may have dizziness and be irritable. Ignatia is an...

Most people will suffer with a bout of anxiety at some point in their lives. This is normally short acting and self limiting but can cause some discomfort at the time. Anxiety that is recurring or that is long standing should ideally be treated by a qualified homeopath. The practitioner will look at the case as a whole and prescribe natural remedies that are specific to you as an individual. These natural homeopathic remedies do not have any side effects and are not habit forming or addictive, unlike conventional anti-anxiety medicines. For long term anxiety, I recommend that you have a full consultation, however there are a few homeopathic remedies that can be taken to alleviate short-term anxiety. If this is something that affects you, why not try homeopathic remedies for anxiety. The choice of remedy is dependent on the cause of the anxiety and the symptoms that the person exhibits. All of these natural homeopathic remedies are safe for the whole family and can also be taken alongside conventional medicines. The remedy Aconite is for intense fear or panic attacks. This remedy is for anxiety that is caused by a shock, from an accident, receiving bad news or from an injury. This remedy is for people who are in an intense state of anxiety or fear. Aconite should be given in the 200c potency, every 30-60 minutes for up to six doses. If the symptoms do not improve or deteriorate please consult your Homeopath or G.P. Argentum Nitricum (Arg Nit) is a remedy for anticipatory anxiety such as fear of flying, anxiety before a job interview, public speaking, or a driving test. This remedy is for people who get very nervous, very hurried and flustered. The person may also feel dizzy and have diarrhoea. This homeopathic remedy should be taken in 30c potency every 15-30mins for up to six doses. The homeopathic remedy Gelsemium is for people who suffer with anxiety that is related to an upcoming event such as a job interview, exam or public speaking. The person feels “paralysed” with fear. They may feel weak, tired and a sense of heaviness. This remedy should also be given in the 30c potency every 30mins for up to six doses. Lycopodium is...

Arthritis is a common condition that affects both men and women equally. It is described as an inflammation of one or more joints which causes pain and stiffness. This leads to limited use of the joint and can have a considerable effect on the quality of life. Although traditional medicines can help, there are many recommended natural remedies for arthritis. The two most common types of arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid Arthritis is less common of the two, and is an auto-immune condition. This is where the body’s immune system attacks itself. This form of arthritis affects approximately 350,000 people in the U.K. Osteoarthritis is more common and affects around 8 Million people in the U.K. This condition is usually caused by wear and tear of the larger joints and injuries. It can start at any age but Osteoarthritis usually develops after the age of 50. Arthritis is usually treated with NSAID’s (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen and Diclofenac. Steroids such as Prednisolone are also prescribed in more severe cases. Toxic medications such as Methotrexate are also being increasingly prescribed to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. All these medicines have a number of side-effects which can lead to other medication being prescribed. There are a number of natural medicines and supplements that can be taken to reduce the pain and inflammation without the side effects of conventional drugs. Glucosamine. There have been a number of trials to support this natural supplement. Glucosamine provides nutritional support to strengthen the joints, cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Glucosamine Sulphate is derived from shellfish and so will not be suitable for a vegetarian diet. Glucosamine Hydrochloride is a vegetarian version which has been shown to have an equal effect. Fish Oils. Fish oils from fish such as salmon, mackeral, herring and cod are a very good source of omega 3 essential fatty acids. These act as a very efficient natural anti-inflammatory supplement and can increase the movement of the joints. They also provide essential fatty acids that are deficient in arthritic joints. Flax Seed Oil. This is a good vegetarian source of omega 3 essential fatty acids. Bromelain. This is a poweful natural anti-inflammatory that is found in pineapples. It also helps in the digestion of protein when taken with meals. Ginger / Curcumin....

What is reflexology?   Reflexology is a healing therapy based on the principle that our organs, glands, spinal column and other parts of the body are mapped out on our feet, hands and even ears.  For example, the big toe represents the head and neck and the ball of the foot represents the chest area.   A reflexologist will apply pressure to specific points or reflexes on the feet, hands or ears, gradually releasing any congestion or crystalline deposits which are hindering the efficient circulation of oxygen and nutrients to the corresponding organ or gland.   In traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese Shiatsu, reflexology is based on the belief in meridians or energy pathways.  Energy flows through the body freely and with ease when a person is well.  When there is a state of dis-ease, the energy flow is blocked.  Applying pressure on these reflexes will stimulate the flow of energy through the meridians, allowing the body to heal itself.   Reflexology has a healing effect on the whole person – the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual – and it works to regain equilibrium in all these areas. Origins of reflexology Reflexology dates back centuries.  Pressure massage to the feet, hands and ears as a form of healing has been passed through generations in the East and evidence proves this has been practised since 2500BC. In the 20th Century, the West introduced zone therapy where the body could be divided into zones running from the head to the toes.  It was proven that applying pressure to one part of the body will anaesthetize a corresponding area within the same zone.  Zone therapy was developed further into foot reflexology when it was found that the feet were the most responsive areas for working the zones through alternating pressure techniques. How will reflexology help me? Reflexology is a natural, effective method of bringing the body and mind back to a state of equilibrium, harmonising the human systems including the endocrine system which controls the production of hormones, the digestive system, reproductive system and nervous system. It is a known fact that if we don’t manage stress well our defence systems break down and we are more susceptible to illness.  Over 75%...

Anxiety is a more common problem than was once thought of.  This condition is usually treated with anti-depressant medication conventionally. The problem with this approach is the long-term dependence on the medication and the side-effects that these medicines have.  There are many alternatives, for example natural remedies for anxiety. Anxiety can affect anyone. Acute anxiety attacks usually occur suddenly and manifest themselves as panic attacks. This occurs when the body produces a surge of adrenaline to deal with an emergency situation. During this time, the increased levels of adrenaline cause muscles to tense up, increase the heart rate and cause breathing to become more rapid. Panic attacks can also cause a feeling of claustrophobia, chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, hot flushes, sweating, nausea or an anticipated sense of disaster or even death. These attacks can occur at any time and usually last between a few seconds up to half an hour. The fact that these attacks are so unpredictable makes them more distressing. Chronic anxiety is less intense than a panic attack. It is an underlying sense of uneasiness and constant worrying. This can the result of a stressful job, insomnia, family stress or life changes. Nutrition and regular can play a vital role in preventing panic attacks and anxiety. There are some simple changes that you can make to your life-style: 1. Stop smoking. 2. Cut out or minimise caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate) intake. 3. Eat regular meals throughout the day. 4. Avoid sugary processed foods like cakes and biscuits. 5. Have a protein rich breakfast, to balance sugar levels. 6. Drink plenty of water. There are some very good natural medicines that can help for the onset of an attack and as general supplements for the nervous system. Rescue Remedy or Ainsworths Recovery Remedy can be taken in a panic attack comes on. You should start this as soon as possible. The homeopathic remedies Aconite, Arsen Alb, and AAA (Anacardium, Ambra Grisea, Arg Nit). These should be taken in the 30c or 200c potency, one dose every 30mins for six doses then three times a day as required. These natural remedies are all very safe and have no interactions or side effects. If the panic attacks occur on a regular basis, it is recommended to consult a qualified homeoapath to receive the appropriate...

As there are so many potential causes of allergies, there is not a general remedy or supplement that can provide an overall treatment. Natural remedies for the treatment of allergies such as hay fever are mentioned in a seperate article. The most important thing to do first is to identify the allergen. This may be something straightforward as pollen in hay fever, but can sometimes take some investigative work. This is especially true in food allergies. The best way to identify a food allergen is to eliminate certain food groups over a period of a week and record any symptoms that occur. For example if a allergy to lactose is suspected,  foods such as cheese, milk, ice cream, butter and yoghurt should be avoided for up to a week. The treatment of long standing allergies should be done with the supervision of a practitioner such as a doctor, nutritionalist or homeopath. If you are looking for natural remedies for allergies, there are some natural supplements that will provide support to the immune system if you suspect you have an allergy. Probiotics and Digestive enzymes will provide support for the digestive system and will facilitate the breakdown of food in the stomach so as to minimise the risk of an allergy occurring. Bromelainis an natural anti-inflammatory and also important for the breakdown of protein in the diet. L-Glutamine: This is an important amino acid that is required in the treatment and prevention of leaky gut symdrome. This is characterised by food particles, allergens, bacteria being passed through gaps in the gut wall. L-Glutamine works by filling these gaps and thereby minimising the risk of these allergies. Quercetin is a natural anti-histamine without having the side effects of conventional anti-histamine tablets. It stops the histamine reaction that occurs in allergies. This supplement has been found to be very effective in reducing the symptoms of hay fever. Fish Oils / Flax Seed Oil: Both of these are an excellent source of omega 3 essential fatty acids. These essential acids are a good to reduce inflammation that occurs in...

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease that is spread by droplets from the nose or mouth of an infected child. It can also be contracted from an adult with shingles. The symptoms usually start with a moderate fever, tiredness, runny nose and lead to the itchy rash. These symptoms are normally very mild in children, but can be more severe in adults. Read on for our recommendations of homeopathic remedies for chickenpox. The following natural homeopathic remedies should be taken three to four times a day in the 30c potency. These remedies are safe for babies and children of all ages. Rhus Tox should be given if the child has a fever and is restless. The itchiness may be less intense for warmth and rubbing. Antimony Tart is recommended when the vesicles on the skin are painful. The child may describe the skin as being burning. There may also be an accompanied cough that is “loose and rattly”. Sulphur is a good remedy for intense itching and burning skin. The skin symptoms are better for open air with this homeopathic remedy. Pulsatilla is for a rash that is itchy that is worse for warmth. The child may also have a thick yellow discharge from the nose and eyes. The child may crave sympathy and be weepy....

Babies usually start teething at the age of 6 months, and this process continues until all 20 milk teeth grow out. This normally lasts until the age of 2 ½ to 3 years of age. Teething can be a very painful experience for the infant and can be accompanied with a fever, skin rash, diarrhoea, colic, nasal congestion and can be the cause of emotional upset. The infant may have disturbed sleep, irritability, and a loss of appetite. There are great benefits of homeopathy for teething & the distress relating to it. Homeopathy provides an excellent range of natural remedies that are very effective and safe to use. There are some specific remedies for teething that may be helpful. These remedies can be used as an alternative to Paracetamol for pain and mild fevers. Chamomilla. This is the most commonly used homeopathic remedy for teething. The infant is irritable, wants to be carried, and can have angry tantrums when left alone. They normally have one cheek which is hot and red, the other is pale. The pain is intense and the gums are tender and swollen. The infant’s symptoms are usually worse in the evening, and may have painful colic, with diarrhoea which is slimy and yellow-green in colour. The infant’s symptoms will be worse in the warmth, and will be better for cold applications in the mouth. Belladonna is a good remedy if the teething pains start suddenly, there is inflammation, a high fever. The infant will be restless, and may cry out during sleep. Calc Carb will be the effective homeopathic remedy if the infant has delayed or slow teething. The gums will be swollen, and the infant may have watery diarrhoea. This remedy will be for infants who are flabby and fair. They have sweaty heads which can be sour smelling. Calc Phos is the remedy of choice if the gums are inflamed and painful. This remedy will be indicated if the infant starts teething late. The  tissue salts Calc Phos and Calc Fluor can both be given throughout the teething period to help strengthen the teeth. Staphisagria will help when the pain is very intense. It is recommended to try Staphisagria if there is no...

What is Homeopathy? It is a system of medicine that assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself and is widely used across the world. It was discovered over 200 years ago by a German doctor, Samuel Hahnemann. His approach to health was very clear and humane. Dr Hahnemann’s aim was to provide his patients with a safe and permanent cure to their illnesses. This is a safe, gentle and effective form of complementary medicine. Homeopathy is an holistic form of medicine. Its takes into account the emotional and physical state of the individual. With the aid of homeopathic remedies the homeopath aims to re-balance the patient emotionally and physically. In doing so, the patient is treated as a whole, not just the symptoms of the disease. Facts about Homeopathy: The active ingredients of Homeopathic remedies are given in a highly diluted form and are 100% safe. Homeopathy is successful in treating a wide range of conditions, often after conventional medicines have failed. Homeopathy works on the principle that “like cures like”. An illness is treated with a substance (in a highly diluted and succussed form), which could produce similar symptoms in a healthy person. Patients are treated as individuals. Homeopathy treats all your symptoms (mental, emotional and physical). Homeopathic remedies are effective, safe and...