Category: Holistic Health

Treating Thyroid Problems Naturally

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Holistic Health, ToolsLeave a comment

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located in the throat that regulates the metabolic functions of the body. It dictates growth and development, and how the body uses energy. It determines the pace at which cells work. Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and goiter can result in fluctuations in weight and difficulty with weight loss. Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. The thyroid does not produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4.) Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid where a person has difficulty keeping weight on. When an Iodide deficiency exists the thyroid can become enlarged, which is called a goiter. Iodine is the principal building block for thyroid hormones, therefore an iodine deficiency should be ruled out right away. Common symptoms are fatigue, drastic weight change, digestion problems, muscle weakness, body aches, sensitivity to extreme temperatures, and thinning hair. Causes of thyroid dysfunction are iodine deficiency, autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto Thyroiditis and Graves’ Disease, inflammation, pituitary or hypothalmus problems.

Conventional medical treatment for thyroid problems are medication to regulate thyroid gland function, supplementing hormones, or surgery. Most patients will use those medications for life. For anyone wishing to treat thyroid imbalances naturally, here are some suggestions:

Herbal Remedies for Thyroid Care

  • Ashwagandha– Has been proven to heal thyroid and adrenal issues
  • Black Pepper- Contains piperine which helps lower levels of thyroid hormones
  • Bladderwrack– Rick in iodine which the thyroid needs
  • Bugleweed– Decreases thyroid hormone levels
  • Commiphora Mukul Tree– Guggulu the resin from the tree trests hypothyroidism
  • Custard Apple Seeds– Contains quercetin which helps lower levels of thyroid hormones
  • Echinacea– has been used to heal both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism
  • Indian Gooseberry– Reduces elevated thyroid hormone levels in blood
  • Nettle Leaf– Has been used to help both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
  • Orange Peel– Contains antioxidant components that help hyperthyroidism
  • Selenium– Powerful antioxidant-like functions. Helps balance hormones
  • Siberian Ginseng– Stimulates thyroid to help hypothyroidism

Homeopathy for Thyroid Problems

  • Amyl Nitrosum– For thyroid symptoms
  • Calcarea Carbonica– For hypothyroidism where there is excessive weight gain
  • Conium Maculatum– For hyperthyroidism with depression
  • Ferrum Iodatum– For enlarged thyroid gland, palpitation of heart and excessive nervousness
  • Ferrum Metallicum- For enlarged thyroid, protruding eyes, nervousness, tremors and sweats
  • Graphites– For hypothyroidism who are very obese and sensitive to cold
  • Lachesis Mutus– For hyperthyroidism with extreme heat
  • Lodium– For hyperthyroidism with quick weight loss
  • Lycopus Virginicus– To remedy exophthalmic goiter
  • Natrum Muriaticum– Helps manage hypothyroidism and depression, also thinning hair, helps hyperthyroidism with irritability, also helps goiter
  • Phosphorus– For hyperthyroidism with extreme sensitivity and hair falling out
  • Sepia Officinalis– Helps patients who are weak with hypothyroidism
  • Spongia Tosta– For enlarged thyroids
  • Sulphur– For exophthalmic goiter
  • Thyroidinum– Stimulates the functioning thyroid gland, for puffy face and weight gain

Foods and Supplements for Thyroid Health

  • B Vitamins- B12 and thiamine are important for thyroid function
  • Blueberries- Loaded with phytonutrients and antioxidants for thyroids in oxidative stress
  • Brazil Nuts- Loaded with selenium which protects against inflammation and is used in T4 to T3 conversion
  • Coconut Oil- Contains medium-chain triglycerides which help cells immediately
  • Garlic- Strengthens immune function which is beneficial for anyone with Hashimoto’s or Graves’ Disease or any type of auto-immune thyroiditis
  • Maca Root– A powerful adaptogen that helps balance and restore sex hormones
  • Mango Peel- Mango peel helps treat stimulate an underactive thyroid gland
  • Muskmelon- Has compounds that stimulate thyroid gland to treat hypothyroidism
  • Mussels- A great source of zinc, magnesium, selenium and iodine which are good for thyroid
  • Probiotics– Critical for leaky gut syndrome, thyroid problems have been linked to leaky gut.
  • Proteolytic Enzymes– Reduce inflammation. Bromelain can benefit thyroid health
  • Seaweed– Best source of iodine which is essential for thyroid health

Understanding Trauma through Polyvagal Theory

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Healing & Empowerment, Holistic Health1 Comment

Polyvagal Theory was a new way to understand trauma through the neuropsychological role of the vagus nerve in regulating emotions and fear responses and how they affect social connections in 1994 when it was introduced by Stephen Porges. The theory expands the two types of threat responses, fight or flight, into a third called “freeze.” It is what some animals do in the wild. Freezing is the body’s way of “playing dead” to become uninteresting to a threat until it passes. The natural way someone exits the freeze response and return to balance in the body is to bring ourselves into social engagement, in which we are open and receptive which establishes within the body that we’re not under threat.

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for this survival mechanism. It regulates heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, digestion, and sexual arousal. In times of extreme threat, one branch of our parasympathetic nervous system kicks us into shutdown mode. When we look back on the experience it is normal to wonder why we did not react differently such as fighting off the attack or running away. It can be confusing and make us think we are weak.

That confusion causes trauma energy to become blocked in the body where it is stored. The person can stay stuck in trauma and anxiety perpetually until it is discharged. The way this stored energy is discharged is through entering back into a state of threat, shut-down and immobilization, and working back into social engagement where we become relaxed and open again. Traveling back and forth threat to safety allows a person to truly recognize they are safe, where they can become open and receptive again so they can explore further healing.

The Three Parts of the Nervous System

Deb Dana, a clinical social worker and therapist recognized the need for a practical application of polyvagal theory and developed a therapy around it. She published three books, The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy, Clinical Application of the Polyvagal Theory and Polyvagal Exercises for Safety and Connection. In her books, she organizes the nervous system into three parts, hierarchy, neuroception and co-regulation.

Hierarchy refers to the three states of the nervous system: The ventral vagal, sympathetic and dorsal vagal, and how they activate in a particular order. The ventral vagal helps us feel safe, show up and communicate. It is our home base line and place of safety. Sympathetic is that energy that gives us fight or flight to help us survive danger. If we cannot flee or fight, then the dorsal vagal has us shut down, collapse and go numb to protect ourselves.

Neuroception is when our nervous system is constantly scanning the environment for clues of any danger. It listens inside and outside our bodies, and to interactions between people for any trouble. Neuroception determines whether we need to be in ventral vagal, sympathetic or dorsal vagal, depending on the environment and threat level. Dana describes co-regulation as the need to be safely connected with others throughout our lifetime in order to survive.

Understanding our nervous system is the first step in navigating challenges more effectively. The nervous system informs the brain, therefore it is essential to first comprehend the processes of the nervous system before understanding the brain. When people come to an understanding of why their nervous system acts the way it does, people can guide themselves back to their home safety state. When people are stuck in the sympathetic state, people with unhealed trauma may carry fear, lack of trust and anxiety. Those stuck in the vagal state may carry loneliness, disconnection and numbness. When survivors heal, it is a triumph because they can reside in the ventral vagal state of their home base where they have let go of their stories of suffering and become connected and attuned with others.

Somatic Experiencing Therapy for Trauma

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Healing & Empowerment, Holistic Health, Tools1 Comment

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing is a naturalistic form of therapeutic body work that aids the healing of Post-Traumatic Stress Response (PTSR) and other issues related to trauma. It was established by Peter Levine in the 1970s and has been used in the treatment of trauma. It is based on Wilhelm Reich’s theory of blocked energy in the body and how it needs to be released in order to heal.

Healing comes through Somatic Experiencing by addressing where imbalances occurred through the excess energy that was trapped in the body following a traumatic incident. During a traumatic incident, adrenalin floods the body in order to fight and run for survival. It’s just something the body does in normal reaction mode. When the traumatic event is over, the body gradually goes back to resting state, but sometimes the body can go into a freeze state and the brain can dissociate to leave the present moment and take refuge elsewhere. This can cause energy to be trapped in the body. The excess energy needs to be discharged but the body doesn’t like to waste energy and tends to store it. This is often the root of dysfunctions following trauma. In order to heal trauma, we must release that energy. It can be deeply uncomfortable, however, it is far better to go through it for our mental and emotional health, than let it fester or bury deeper inside.

The Somatic Experiencing approach is to assist a person to notice their physical sensations in relation to difficult thoughts and emotions connected with their traumatic events. Instead of talking about the experience and reliving it, Somatic Experiencing uncovers and identifies the sensations in the body that are energetically linked to the traumatic emotions or memories. For instance, when a traumatic memory comes up, a person would notice where they feel sensations of pain or discomfort in their body. The person would make the connection between that part of the body and the traumatic event. While that connection if fresh, the person would immediately think of a positive thought or memory, such as basking in the sunshine or a favorite vacation spot. By bringing in a pleasant, positive experience, there is a somatic overwrite and the person should feel relief in the form of a tingling sensation, calming or the feeling as if a weight has been lifted.

These are some techniques used in Somatic Experiencing to release traumatic energy trapped in the body:

Breathing can be used to breathe out and release blocked and stored energy.

Mindfulness to strengthen awareness of surroundings, thoughts, and the way the body feels.

Meditation to calm and increase awareness.

Somatic Psychotherapy may be used to talk about the experience and pinpoint correlating body discomfort.

Body movement is used to release trapped energy and identify areas of stress to process it for healing.

Positive Imagery can be used to calm the body and mind to help bring healing to stress areas.

Conclusion

Normally we can sufficiently recover from a traumatic event but we each process trauma differently both physically and emotionally. Trapped energy from a traumatic event can cause imbalances in the body. Those imbalances over time can become chronic pain, behavior disorders or disease. Trauma therapy should be sought at the first sign of trauma symptoms, or right after a traumatic event, but we don’t always realize that we need help. Waiting until pain and discomfort become so unbearable is what normally drives people to seek therapy. Somatic Experiencing is a way to release stored trauma energy by identifying body discomfort associated with a trauma memory. Using positive imagery, the trauma memory energy can be uncovered and released. Relief in the form of a freer, lighter feeling can be achieved.

Holistic approaches to healing trauma down-loadable free Ebooks written by Lou Lebentz.

https://docslib.org/doc/9096180/solutions-to-trauma-part-i-psychosomatic-and-holistic-methods-lou-lebentz-trauma-thrivers-trauma-thrivers

https://docslib.org/doc/9096180/solutions-to-trauma-part-ii-psychosomatic-and-holistic-methods-lou-lebentz-trauma-thrivers-trauma-thrivers

Sensorimotor Therapy to Heal Trauma

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Healing & Empowerment, Holistic HealthLeave a comment

How Does Sensorimotor Therapy Heal Trauma?

Sensorimotor Therapy- Research has shown that people who have been diagnosed with PTSD, have experienced child or adult sexual abuse and those who suffer from anxiety, depression and other trauma-related symptoms benefit from Sensorimotor Therapy. It was first discovered by Dr. Pat Ogden in the 1970s and is meant to re-establish the connection between mental health and the sensorimotor skills of patients at the psychiatric hospital where she worked. It works on the theory that when we experience trauma or a traumatic event, memory of the experience can become trapped in the body. Affected persons may not even be aware that the energy of unresolved trauma is what is causing pain and problems in their body. It can affect the nervous system, mood and numerous other secondary symptoms.

Normal survival responses to trauma are fight, flight, freeze, flop or friend. The freeze response shuts us down in a paralysis, thus our attempts to physically protect ourselves may not have been completed for several reasons, we may have been overpowered by the assailant. Situations where we are unable to protect ourselves can lead to mannerisms like shaking, clenching or nervous ticks. It can also lead to anxiety, hopelessness and depression.

In Sensorimotor Therapy, the incomplete actions are played out in a safe environment which can give the person a sense of closure. The playact is performed in a state of mindful awareness or mindfulness in order for the experience to reach directly into the subconscious. Mindfulness helps the closure experience reach the old trauma memories to augment them into a better state of wholeness.

Benefits of Sensorimotor Therapy are:

· Reduction in physical and emotional pain
· Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms
· Reduction in anxiety-related symptoms
· Mood disorders and emotional regulation
· Improved physical coordination
· Increased capacity for intimacy
· Improved ability to set boundaries
· Substance abuse and addictive behavior
· Self harm and suicidal behavior

The Three Phases of Sensorimotor Therapy

Phase 1: Safety and Stabilization– This is a gentle exploration of thoughts, emotions, memories and sensations. Mindfulness is cultivated throughout the investigation.

Phase 2: Processing– This is an exploration of memories that are attached to physical sensations and movements in the body. The person learns and practices movements that empower them to defend themselves that they may not have been able to use during the time of the trauma. This stimulates a triumphant response to the original threat.

Phase 3: Integration– This is where the client is empowered with a strong sense of self, improve relationships and to cultivate an ability to pursue pleasant, playful activities to feel joy and contentment.

Conclusion

In Sensorimotor Therapy, people become aware of their awareness, thus remaining cognizant while being able to observe mind and body. People are taught how to regulate their nervous system and emotions. This enables them to remain calm despite the intrusion of traumatic memories. It can reduce fight or flight or freeze reactions to stressful situations.

Holistic approaches to healing trauma down-loadable free Ebooks written by Lou Lebentz.

https://docslib.org/doc/9096180/solutions-to-trauma-part-i-psychosomatic-and-holistic-methods-lou-lebentz-trauma-thrivers-trauma-thrivers

https://docslib.org/doc/9096180/solutions-to-trauma-part-ii-psychosomatic-and-holistic-methods-lou-lebentz-trauma-thrivers-trauma-thrivers

So Bright That Light

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Holistic Health, PoetryLeave a comment 
So Bright That Light
by ThinkCareBelieve

Love breaks through barriers of time and space

The veil thins to nothing

Distant memories come closer

My hand touches your face 

The warmth of your breath

In the quiet and the calm

Sweet cherished moments

An eternal fire burning 

Turning into a blaze

A blaze that is bright 

So bright that Light.

During times like these, it is important to be calm and centered. Remember to keep a list handy of your “GoTo” ways to keep from panicking and staying focused. Here are a few suggestions for your list:

  • Homeopathic Aconitum Napellus- stops fear and panic
  • Herbal Gotu Kola- keeps nerves at an even keel
  • Cut sugar, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol
  • Warm bath with magnesium (epsom salts)
  • Regular exercise
  • Staying hydrated and getting enough electrolytes
  • Music
  • Hobbies

Three things to do every day to keep our light bright.

  1. Every morning, say thank you for the blessings of this day
  2. Send some compassionate thoughts to someone else (be open to receiving back)
  3. Find something to laugh about (yourself is a good answer)

Tuning Forks for Sound Healing

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Holistic HealthLeave a comment

Tuning Forks for Sound Healing

Tuning forks can help the body and mind to gently relax out of the normal stress responses that we have acquired out of habit. They are non-invasive, easy to learn and very efficient. Therapists report that tuning forks have shown beneficial results for PTSD, depression, anxiety, digestive problems, pain and emotional discordance. Tuning forks can be found as a stand alone treatment or a supplementary modality.

Using a Tuning Fork for Healing

Tuning forks can be used to balance the energy fields of the body. By striking a tuning fork and moving it around the body through the aura, the different fields of the body’s biomagnetic energy field (biofield) react to the powerful vibration of the fork. The concept of the therapy is that when traumatic experiences occur on physical, mental and emotional levels, it will reflect in the biofield as a sort of disturbance. The biofield is associated with the health of the physical body so any dissonance in the biofield can contribute to or be a symptom of ill health. Tuning forks can be used diagnostically by combing through the field and listening for fluctuations in the vibration of the fork. That area can then be treated therapeutically with the tuning fork as the field resonates with the vibration of the fork. Tuning forks can be moved around the body or touching the body with the bottom stem.

What are Tuning Forks?

When struck, the tines of a tuning fork vibrate back and forth at such a high rate that they hit air molecules that crash into eachother creating sound when they reach our eardrums. The sound generated is measured in hertz (hz.) The differences in size, weight and shape cause the fork to vibrate differently therefore they are a different pitch. There are two kinds of tuning forks, weighted and unweighted.

Weighted forks have cylindrical weights on top of the tines. The weights muffle the sound as they push the vibration down into the stem to be transferred directly into the body. Unweighted forks do not have weights and so create a clear tone and are typically used to comb through the field around the body.

You can purchase a weighted Solfreggio Tuning Fork set for healing by clicking here.

Click here to purchase an unweighted Solfreggio Tuning Fork set for healing.

Tuning Forks for Chakras

There are seven chakras in the human body energy system. They are like flashlights that shine out the front and the back of the body. Each is responsible for different aspects of the human physiological behavioral system. Each is represented by a different color, musical note and frequency, and they are as follows:

ChakraNameColorFrequencyMusical NoteGoverns
1stRootRed194.18 Hz GGrounding, Fear & Guilt
2ndSacralOrange210.42 Hz AManifestation & Change
3rdSolar PlexisYellow126.22 Hz BEmotional Balance
4thHeartGreen136.10 Hz CLove & Well-being
5thThroatBlue141.27 Hz DCommunication & Self-expression
6thThird EyeIndigo221.23 Hz EIntuition & Second Sight
7thCrownViolet172.23 Hz FSpiritual Connection

Buy color coded Tuning Forks for Chakras by clicking here.

In Sanskrit, the word chakra means wheel. The Hindus describe chakras as spinning wheels of light and color. The benefits of clear and balanced chakras are improved circulation, reduced inflammation and increased energy available for the body. When held and moved above the chakra a resonance effect takes place where the chakra entrains with the pulsating overtones of the tuning fork. In this way the chakra is opened and balanced.

Tuning Fork Facials

Tuning forks are also used on the face as part of massage therapy. After being struck on a hockey puck to activate the sound and vibration, the stem can be placed on different muscles of the face, having a relaxing and rejuvenating effect. Another benefit is that they aid lymphatic drainage which can be of benefit to the health of the skin.

Conclusion

Tuning forks used as sound therapy can facilitate the health of the body by increasing circulation and balancing the body’s own energy flow throughout. It calms and relieves muscle tension. When combed through the body’s biofield, tuning forks can be used diagnostically as well as therapeutically. The frequency and vibration of different forks can be utilized for different areas of the body. Tuning fork therapy is non-invasive and can have lasting benefits toward a healthy body.

Skin Aid Naturally

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Healing & Empowerment, Holistic HealthLeave a comment

Skin problems can arise from environmental conditions as well as internal imbalances of the body. Typical treatments are prescription topical creams and ointments, prescription medication that adjust functions of the body such as the immune system, as well as cryo-surgical intervention. Traditionally, natural medicine that has been used for centuries with good results. If you would like to try more natural methods, here are some suggestions:

Acne

Herbal and Plant

  • Basil– Excellent astringent
  • Blue Yarrow– Astringent, antiseptic, promotes healing
  • Calendula– For acne, minor cuts, burns, dry skin, eases inflammation and speeds healing
  • Cajeput Oil– Astringent, antiseptic, clears inflammation
  • Chamomile– For cleansing
  • Hibiscus– Helps clear and firm skin
  • Lavender– Calms redness
  • Rose Oil– For hormonal acne, calming
  • Tea Tree Oil- Natural anti-fungal and anti-microbial, mix into moisturizer to treat eczema, dilute into witch hazel to treat acne, dilute into a carrier oil to treat psoriasis
  • Wild Geranium Oil– Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic

Homeopathic

Dermatitis

Herbal and Plant

  • Chamomile– Use as a poultice to soothe eruptions
  • Chickweed– Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Fenugreek– Fenugreek contains an emollient that soothes inflamed skin
  • Licorice– Excellent anti-inflammatory properties
  • Marigold– Anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties
  • Marshmallow– Mixed with water to create a gel that can be protective and soothing for skin
  • St. John’s Wort– Use as a poultice for dermatitis
  • Sarsaparilla– Root used topically for dermatitis and psoriasis
  • Wild Geranium Oil– Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic
  • Witch Hazel– Excellent astringent

Homeopathic

Eczema

Herbal and Plant

  • Baking Soda– Has antiseptic properties, cleanses and softens skin
  • Cassia Obtusifolia– Mascerate leaves with alcohol or vinegar to use on affected skin
  • Chamomile– Anti-inflammatory, calms and soothes skin, effective on eczema and psoriasis applied topically and drank as a tea
  • Cod Liver Oil– Anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory, helps combat eczema
  • Comfrey– Make a tea and wash affected area
  • Mint– Antibacterial and antifungal, crush leaves and put on affected area.
  • Neem– Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, soothes inflamed skin
  • Nettle– Mascerate leaves and apply externally
  • Olive Oil– Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, soothes inflamed skin
  • Tea Tree Oil– Natural anti-fungal and anti-microbial, mix into moisturizer to treat eczema, dilute into witch hazel to treat acne, dilute into a carrier oil to treat psoriasis
  • Witch Hazel– Make a paste of witch hazel leaves and apply

Homeopathic

  • Arsenicum Album– For people who are anxious, restless and OCD
  • Calcarea Carbonica– For people who are chilly with clammy hands that get very dry in winter
  • Graphites– For people with tough leathery skin that crack and get sore
  • Hepar Sulphurus– For sensitive, chilly people whose eczema is sore and becomes infected easily
  • Kali Muriaticum– For eczema, acne, burns and warts
  • Oleander– For wet eczema and psoriasis, heart problems and food allergies
  • Petroleum Oleum– For painful deep cracks with bleeding
  • Psorinum– For allergy, dermatitis, eczema and vitiligo that gets worse in cold weather
  • Ranunculus Bulbosus– For eczema, itching and chapped palms and fingertips
  • Rhus Taxicodendron– For eczema and dermatitis, itching and burning

Psoriasis

Herbal and Plant

  • Aloe Vera– To heal burns and scars of all kinds, psoriasis, topically or internally by capsule
  • Apple Cider Vinegar– Helps stop itching of psoriasis
  • Burdock Root– Blood purifier, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
  • Cabbage Leaves– Boiled and used as a compress for flare-ups of psoriasis
  • Calendula– For acne, minor cuts, burns, dry skin, eases inflammation and speeds healing, psoriasis
  • Chamomile– Anti-inflammatory, calms and soothes skin, effective on eczema and psoriasis applied topically and drank as a tea
  • Chickweed– Dries and cools skin problems, astringent
  • Epsom Salt Bath– Helps with Psoriasis
  • Gotu Kola– Can mix into lotions and creams to speed healing
  • Licorice Root– Excellent anti-inflammatory properties, calms nerves
  • Milk Thistle– Can have protective properties for skin
  • Oats– Soothing for inflamed skin
  • St. John’s Wort– Reduces the amount of cyclosporine in the the blood
  • Sarsaparilla– Root used topically for dermatitis and psoriasis
  • Tea Tree Oil– Natural anti-fungal and anti-microbial, mix into moisturizer to treat eczema, dilute into witch hazel to treat acne, dilute into a carrier oil to treat psoriasis
  • Turmeric– Helps minialize flare-ups
  • Witch Hazel– Excellent astringent, make a paste of witch hazel leaves and apply, soothes pain

Homeopathic

Warts

Herbal and Plant

  • Celandine– Treat topically with juice of Celandine, wart dries and falls off
  • Cinnamon– Essential Oil
  • Clove– Essential Oil
  • Fig Tree Sap (latex)- Put sap on wart 2x day until the wart disappears
  • Frankincense-Essential oil
  • Garlic Extract– Antimicrbial and antiviral properties
  • Tea Tree Oil– Antiviral properties

Homeopathic

Vitiligo

Homeopathic

  • Calcarea Carbonica– For milky white spots on the skin
  • Psorinum– For allergy, dermatitis, eczema and vitiligo
  • Sepia Officinalis– For painful skin issues, exzema, hyperpigmentation, ringworm, stye and warts
  • Silicea– For people who are timid and bashful and fear speaking in public

Hives

Homeopathic

Hyperhidrosis/ Excessive Sweating

Homeopathic

Medicinal Mushrooms for All Skin Problems

  • Chaga– King of antioxidants protecting skin from free radical damage
  • Cordyceps– Anti-cancer properties, oxygenator and improves skin regeneration
  • Enoki– Vitamin D, anti-oxidant and immune support
  • Lion’s Mane- Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, boosts collagen
  • Maitake– Alleviates allergic reactions and can reduce eczema and psoriasis
  • Reishi– Reduce skin inflammation, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory
  • Shiitake– Helps skin look smoother and less blotchy
  • Tremella– A hydration powerhouse, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, wound healing
  • Turkey Tail– Skin lightening properties, reduces skin redness, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial

Sleep Better Naturally

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Holistic Health, ToolsLeave a comment

Sleeping problems are more common than we care to admit. There is no shortage of stressors in our world, all of which can affect our ability to wind down enough for our bodies to rest. Most of us have fallen into a pattern of revving up with coffee in the morning and winding down with something in the evening before bed. That works for a while, but over time the rhythm can be thrown off by emotions, demands, hardship and struggles. Let’s look at the most common problems and causes:

Most Common Sleep Problems

Potential Causes of Sleep Disturbance

  • Blue light from screens
  • Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco
  • Constant stress triggers
  • EMF pollution
  • Medications
  • Noises and disturbances in environment
  • Stress
  • Trauma/PTSD
  • Working irregular shifts

When our lack of sleep approaches deprivation we need to do something to make sure we get our rest. Over the counter sleep aids can have numerous side effects, that can worsen over time. Conventional medicine usually determines sleep problems by doing a sleep study and then treating with pharmaceutical medication. Natural medicine, however, has had a track record of success for centuries. If you would rather try more natural methods, please consider the following:

Foods To Eat Before Bed For Better Sleep

  • Almonds– May help boost sleep quality
  • Banana– High in Potassium
  • Chickpeas– Helps make Melatonin
  • Fatty Fish– Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin D improve sleep
  • Kiwi– Contains Serotonin which regulates sleep cycle
  • Tart Cherry Juice– Contains Melatonin that improves sleep quality
  • Turkey– High in protein and Tryptophan (promotes sleep)
  • Walnuts- May improve sleep quality
  • White Rice– High glycemic index food that may improve sleep

Supplements That Promote Better Sleep

Homeopathic Remedies for a Good Sleep

  • Aconitum Napellus– Insomnia due to fear, shock, paranoia, grief
  • Arnica Montana– Over exertion, muscle pain, jet lag
  • Arsenicum Album– Anxiety that worsens after midnight, restless during daytime
  • Calcarea Carbonica– Can only sleep for short durations, agitated, pulsating head
  • Calcarea Phosphoric– For those who have difficulty waking up in the morning
  • Causticum– Bedwetting, fear of the dark
  • Chamomilla Vulgaris– For disturbed sleep from nightmares
  • Cocculus Indicus– Can’t sleep due to over-exertion and over-strains, good for children who have a fear of ghosts
  • Cina– For insomnia in children
  • Coffea Cruda– For a mind that won’t slow down, excessive dreams, waking early but can’t fall back asleep
  • Equisetum– Bed wetting while dreaming, immature nervous system
  • Graphite– Drowsy during the day but difficulty falling asleep at night
  • Ignatia Amara– For insomnia due to grief and depression
  • Kali Phosphoricum– For anxiety, stress and worries, night terrors
  • Pulsatilla Nigricans– Trouble falling asleep, can’t get something out of the mind, restlessness
  • Nux Vomica– Waking up early, restless sleep, stomach troubles
  • Passiflora Incarnata– For insomnia in older persons, mental worries, helps infants sleep
  • Robinia– For GERD and heartburn and sour belching
  • Rhus Tox– For chronic pain in joints or back interfering with sleeping
  • Valeriana Officinalis– Itching and muscle spasms due to excitement
  • Zincum Met- For Restless Leg Syndrome

Herbs That Aid Sleep

Herbal Recipes for Inducing Sleep

  • California Poppy, Passionflower and Valerian– For better REM sleep
  • California Poppy and Chamomile- Strengthens and regulates nervous system
  • Catnip and Chamomile– Mild sedative properties
  • Kava Kava, Lemon Balm and Valerian Root– Good for stress and/or anxiety

Bach Flower Remedies to Improve Sleep

Medicinal Mushrooms That Can Help You Sleep

  • Reishi- To fall asleep faster, sleep longer with better REM sleep
  • Lion’s Mane– Balances brain function, improves circadian rhythms
  • Cordyceps– Improve oxygenation, increased NREM sleep, improved 5-HTP levels

More Solutions for Better Sleep

  • Accupuncture– Stimulating meridian points in the body as an effective and safe treatment for insomnia
  • Apple Cider Vinegar with a teaspoon of Honey
  • CBD– Liquid or gummy
  • Create a Sleep Sanctuary in your bedroom– Dark, quiet, comfortable room
  • Daily Exercise– Late afternoon or early evening is best
  • IBT (Inclined Bed Therapy)– The body’s circulation, oxygenation and metabolism is markedly improved when the head of the bed is elevated 3-8”. Assists with many things including pain and breathing.
  • Meditation– Train yourself to put worries out of your mind
  • Relaxation Techniques– Train your body to release tension on command
  • Weight Management– Helps sleep and breathing
  • Yoga– Train your muscles to let go of tension

Holistic Hair Health

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Healing & Empowerment, Holistic Health, ToolsLeave a comment

Hair loss can be distressing as well as embarrassing. Causes range from metabolic disorder associated with the spleen, hormonal imbalance, nutrient deficiency, stress, or a malfunction of the immune system. In the case of Alopecia Areata, the body’s immune cells mistakenly attack hair follicles (see castor oil detox.) Hair loss can also be attributed to fungal infections such as candida, molds and yeasts. For those who wish to try treatment at home before pharmaceutical or surgical intervention, here are some suggestions:

Essential Oils

Homeopathic Remedies

Home Treatments

  • Bach Flowers- Crab Apple, Larch and Rescue Remedy
  • Castor Oil Detox– Cover scalp with oil, leave on as long as possible, shampoo
  • Coffee- Rinse with cooled coffee, leaves hair stronger and shinier
  • Colloidal Silver Rinse– for fungal infections and to unclog hair follicles
  • Green Tea– Massage into hair and scalp to prevent hair loss
  • Honey and yogurt- Massage into hair for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo. For frizzy hair
  • Ivermectin- Studies indicate Ivermectin may be effective treatment for alopecia
  • Oil Moisturizing– Coconut, Jojoba, Olive oils
  • Raw Egg– beaten put on hair for 15-30 minutes, then shampoo out. Feeds and thickens hair.
  • Rice Water Rinse– Use the water from rinsing rice as a rinse for hair. Shine and strength
  • Rife Electromedicine– Frequencies for fungal infections, alopecia and hair regrowth
  • Rosemary, Lavender and Clary Sage Oils– Hair Thickener
  • Vinegar– Cleanses hair follicles

Vitamins and Supplements

  • A, B, C, D, Iron, Zinc
  • Biotin– Promotes hair growth
  • Collagen– Helps thicken hair
  • Keratin– Building blocks of hair
  • Omega 3
  • Saw Palmetto– For Alopecia and male baldness
  • Silica– Strengthens hair

Tips

  • Cooler showers are healthier for hair
  • Diet and Nutrition- Proteins, berries, spinach, avocados and Vitamin C and E rich foods
  • Healthy habits- Alcohol and smoking can cause imbalances that affect hair
  • Regular haircuts
  • Silk pillowcases
  • Stick to Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner

Treat Arthritis Naturally

On By thinkcarebelieveIn Holistic Health, ToolsLeave a comment

Arthritis is defined as swelling, stiffness and pain in joints. It is linked to stress and weak immunity. It is thought that the stress is related to a buildup of toxins, emotional distress and metabolic imbalances in the body. There are over one hundred types of arthritis. The following are the most common.

  • Gout (metabolic)– Buildup of painful uric acid crystals in joints
  • Infectious– Also called septic or pyogenic, occurs when there is an infection of the joints
  • Juvenile– inflammation of joints in children, the origins of which are not understood
  • Osteoarthritis– the most common type, affects joints, hips, hands and knees
  • Psoriatic– A progressive inflammatory condition where inflammation occurs where tendons and ligaments attach to bone (entheses)
  • Reactive– Arthritis that flares up in reaction to something in the body such as an infection, mainly occurs in joints, eyes and urinary tract
  • Rheumatoid– Autoimmune disease where the immune system is overactive, attacking joints, spine, hands and feet

Typical home treatment is over the counter NSAIDs. More debilitating conditions are normally managed by prescription medication. But for those who wish to manage their arthritis holistically, please consider the following suggestions:

Herbal Remedies

Homeopathic Remedies

Medicinal Mushrooms

  • Chaga– Lessens inflammation
  • Cordyceps– Enhances bloodflow & muscle recovery, helps rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lion’s Mane– Found to have protective effects for osteoarthritis
  • Reishi– Has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties

Nutrients and Supplements

Therapies

  • Acupuncture
  • Dietary Changes
  • Energy Healing
  • Hot and Cold Therapy- Heat to ease soreness and stiffness, cold to reduce any swelling
  • Massage
  • Meditation to address pain
  • Physical Therapy
  • Regular Exercise
  • Rife Frequency Electromedicine
  • Sauna Therapy
  • Tens Unit
  • Weight reduction

Topical Treatments Applied to the Skin

  • Aloe Vera
  • Arnica Cream
  • Capsaicin
  • Eucalyptus
  • Ginger
  • Orange Oil
  • Thunder God Vine
  • Turmeric