Rachel's Alternative Therapy Blog - BalanceBoost

Take A More Natural Approach to Dealing With Spring Allergies

2008-04-07T21:49:00.002-04:00

While the spring season is well under way the beautiful transformation taking place can wreak havoc for some. Allergies are on the rise and if you are one of those unlucky people with medicine head and an over attachment to your nasal inhaler, this season is never fun. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to pollen, molds, grass, dander, fragrances, cosmetics and chemicals.

Symptoms may include asthma like symptoms, fatigue, headache, runny nose, itchy throat, congestion, sneezing, coughing and runny eyes. Allergies are not only bothersome, but many have been linked to a variety of common and serious chronic respiratory illnesses. If you have tried everything and are looking for a different approach this season follow my all natural tips below.

Change you’re A/C filter at regular 30 day intervals, remember whatever particulate matter is not being filtered you are actively inhaling through your nose and into your lungs.

Go Fragrance Free; leave your vanilla freesia shower gel and favorite fragrance for a later date and time, there are so many synthetic chemicals in personal care products. You will only make be making a bad situation much worse by dousing yourself in the latest smells. Also invest in fragrance free laundry detergent; this will help to eliminate chemical irritants that diffuse through your clothing.

Take Honey and Bee Pollen, scientific studies support this all natural wonder and its’ ability to support a challenged immune system. The good news is, bees gather pollen, and a small amount of it is present in the honey they subsequently produce. When you eat honey that is made by local bees, the pollen you are eating can act rather like a natural vaccination. It is recommended to take 1 teaspoon per day.

Drink Nettle Herbal Tea; believe it or not this herb contains a naturally occurring antihistamine. Nettle also offers an array of proven biological activities and medicinal applications. To make a cup of herbal tea, heat 1 cup of distilled water and add 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried herb, let steep for 10 minutes and drink.

Inhale Eucalyptus Essential Oil, this all natural expectorant and decongestant will provide ample relief upon smelling just a drop or two. Smell drops as needed throughout the day, you can also benefit from a steam inhalation. Simply heat 1 cup of water and add a drop of Eucalyptus, inhale slowly for 10-15 minutes.

How do you find relief? If you have an all natural tip for allergies that works let us know.

Let’s Clear the Air

2008-03-31T09:54:00.012-04:00

If it is true that we are a product of our environment then what about the air that we breath? With asthma, allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities on the rise, sufferers are left gasping for fresh air. Many questions have been raised about the quality of the air we breathe, both inside and outside of our homes and businesses. Problems with sick building syndrome, mold & mildew and overuse of chemicals can be multifaceted with an exhaustive list of symptoms associated to exposure. As scientists are coming to understand the long-term effects on human health you can find a natural solution at your local nursery.

Consistent scientific findings demonstrate that plants naturally “breathe in” carbon dioxide during the process of photosynthesis. As a result of this process, oxygen is released by the plants’ leaves. Room air is also drawn into the soil of a potted plant as the plant begins to dry. Microorganisms living around plant roots “eat” any air-borne pollutants with which they come into contact, breaking down their chemical structures. The resulting pieces of chemicals are either taken up by the plant as nutrients, or remain harmless in the soil.

In addition to their beauty, houseplants are also a valuable weapon against indoor air pollution. They can absorb harmful chemicals and improve air quality, making your home or office a more pleasant place to live or work. According to NASA Researchers, plants reduced air pollution from gases, such as formaldehyde and benzene. Further research is determining the efficacy of indoor plants in cleaning up larger particle common indoor air pollutants, such as asbestos; pesticides; and other gases; chemicals from detergents, solvents, and cleaning fluids.

In general, one large plant per 100 square feet of space is sufficient to clean the air in an average home or office. A more heavily polluted environment would require a greater concentration of plants. Keep in mind that plants will not do much to alleviate tobacco smoke or dust in the air.

According to extensive studies at NASA they found the top 10 plants most effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air.

Bamboo Palm

Chinese Evergreen

English Ivy

Gerbera Daisy

Janet Craig

Marginata

Mass cane/Corn Plant

Mother-in-Law's Tongue

Pot Mum

Peace Lily

Warneckii

Did you know that having a green thumb can help filter the air?

Clean Green For Health and Replace Toxic Chemicals With Non-Toxic Ingredients

2008-03-24T18:52:00.006-04:00

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside the typical home is on average 2-5 times more polluted than the air just outside—and in extreme cases 100 times more contaminated—largely because of household cleaners and pesticides. Most modern synthetic cleaning products are formulated with a cocktail of chemicals. Take a look under your kitchen counter, if you have more than 5 products that you generally use for cleaning then this should be of particular interest you to.

Going back to using naturally derived ingredients is a way to make cleaning products that are environmentally friendly, economical and safe for your family. The best part is that most of the ingredients can be found in your kitchen.

Remember, many of chemicals contained in household cleaning products are the same as those used in industrial settings. Scientists are now becoming concerned that long-term, low-level exposure to chemicals may be just as dangerous as short-term high-dose exposures. There is also a general consensus that we do not fully understand the impact of exposures over our lifetime. The average adult in the U.S. will test positive for well over 50 chemicals that reside in their system. For those of you who want not only a clean environment but also a healthy one I hope that you enjoy the recipes below.

Scouring Powder
1/2 cup baking soda
1 tablespoon salt
Lemon Essential Oil

Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1 tablespoon table salt and blend thoroughly. Next add 20 drops of lemon essential oil and mix all ingredients together. Use as usual and rinse.

Window Cleaner
3 tablespoons Grapefruit Essential Oil
Water
Spray bottle

Put all the ingredients into a spray bottle, shake it up a bit, and use as you would a commercial brand. The grapefruit essential oil in this recipe is important. It cuts the wax residue from the commercial brands you might have used in the past.

All-purpose Cleaner
1 teaspoon Lavender Essential Oil
1 teaspoon Eucalyptus Essential Oil
1 teaspoon Lemon Essential Oil
Water

Combine the ingredients in a dedicated 24-32 ounce spray bottle. Shake well before using. Apply and wipe off with a sponge or rag.

Furniture Polish
1/2 teaspoon oil, such as olive (or jojoba, a liquid wax)
1/4 cup vinegar or fresh lemon juice

Mix the ingredients in a glass jar. Dab a soft rag into the solution and wipe onto wood surfaces. Cover the glass jar and store indefinitely.

d-Limonene Deodorizer
1 tablespoon d-Limonene
Water

Keep a clean spray bottle filled with 10 percent d-Limonene to water in your kitchen and in your bathroom. I often spray d-limonene onto my dishes prior to washing to degrease and lift off food. To eliminate odors spray into your toilet bowl and shower stall.

Mold & Mildew Remediation
3 tablespoons Tea tree Essential Oil
Water
Spray bottle

Tea tree oil offers antifungal, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties and is an old-fashioned remedy for mold and mildew. I've used it successfully when I experienced a leak in my roof and had water damage in the walls. Combine in a spray bottle, shake to blend, and spray on problem areas. Do not rinse.

Check Out A Few Ways To Truly "Go Green" This St. Patrick's Day

2008-03-16T22:15:00.004-04:00

This St. Patrick's Day, the color green takes on more significance than ever, at least people are starting to pay attention. While St. Patrick's Day is celebrated around the world as a day honoring the patron saint of Ireland, most Americans associate this holiday with four leaf clovers, shamrocks, leprechauns and the "luck of the Irish."

Little by little the world is going green and for many this is becoming a lifestyle choice. What better way to celebrate eco-progress than on that greenest of holidays, St. Patrick's Day? Get a head start by sending out e-invites this ensures your commitment to going paperless!

Greet guests with a fabulous party favor from matchstickgarden.com, these clever matchbooks contain pull-out sticks that you simply plant in the soil and watch your garden grow.

Your beverage menu should include something for the non-drinkers and iced green tea flavored with peppermint leaves is always a big hit. For those who are looking for something brewed from hops, choose organic. Consumer interest in organic foods has certainly caught the eye of most beer manufacturers, many are now producing an assortment of brews produced with ingredients like fennel, coriander, anise, and honey which meet organic production standards.

After A night of drinking, you might be hurting...a lot. According to the FDA taking over-the-counter pain relievers for a hangover can actually do your body more harm than good. Inhaling drops of peppermint can help to alleviate the vast array of symptoms often associated with a hangover. Add a drop to a tissue and smell throughout the day.

Did you do your part to “Go Green,” this St. Patty’s Day?

Alopecia- Stress and Overuse Of Chemicals Can Lead To Sudden Hair Loss

2008-03-10T21:29:00.003-04:00

Alopecia is the term used to describe temporary baldness or severe hair loss this is to be distinguished from pattern baldness which is usually permanent. Temporary hair loss may result from trauma, stress or shock to the body's systems be it emotional or mental. This list may include chemical exposure, childbirth, starvation, systemic infection, immune disorders, and use of some prescription drugs.

Damage may also result from chemical treatments over a long period of time such as hair coloring or permanents. A fungal condition called tinea capitis ("ringworm of the scalp") also results in hair loss. The causes of alopecia areata, or patchy hair loss, often depend upon the individual and therefore lifestyle. One recommendation is to get a hair analysis; this is a simple test that you can request through a general practitioner. A hair analysis is an excellent tool to identify specific chemical toxins within the human body, look for a credentialed laboratory and the expertise of the practitioner interpreting the results.

It is also important to evaluate each and every product that you are using like shampoos, conditioner, mouse, gel, hairspray etc.; all of these chemically laced products could make a bad situation far worse. Spend a little more and buy an all-natural, certified organic shampoo this will be your best assurance that you are not pouring chemicals on your head. Regular scalp massages are also recommended to help stimulate the hair follicles and encourage re-growth. To benefit from a relaxing and nourishing scalp massage mix 5 drops each of lavender, rosemary, tea-tree and peppermint. Blend this formula into one ounce of jojoba or olive. Use only a small amount to gently rub into the scalp and throughout length of hair. Cover entire head with a towel and allow mixture to penetrate for up to 30 minutes. You may decide to shampoo and condition as usual or leave in the treatment overnight.

In a randomized trial of aromatherapy several dermatologists conducted a controlled trial. Over eight six participants with alopecia areata massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. Treatment with these essential oils was significantly more effective than treatment with the carrier oil alone.

Want to know what you are made of?

It’s all in a single strand of hair.

Honey for Human Health

2008-03-03T18:44:00.001-05:00

Ancient Wisdom Blended With Modern Medicine

Historically, honey has been used as a folk remedy in cultures around the world. Pharmacopoeias have documented honey-based preparations for thousands of years and now it is at the forefront of research for the common cold, diabetes, and wound care.

Honey possesses undisputed pharmacologically active constituents that offer antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. It is also packs a powerhouse of vital nutrients like Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and Minerals like Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, and Zinc.

In a landmark study conducted at Penn State College of Medicine a team of researchers found that a small does of buckwheat honey given before bedtime provided better relief of nighttime cough than no treatment or dextromethorphan (DM). This could not come at a better time considering the FDA’s recent advisory of over-the-counter medicines for children. Honey should not be given to children under the age of 12 months due to high levels of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, in rare cases this can cause infant botulism.

With rates of childhood obesity and diabetes on the rise scientists are actively searching for a natural cure. Researchers at the USDA recently presented evidence that could impact millions of lives. According to David Baer, PhD “consumption of honey compared to some other sweeteners may improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.” This is very promising when you consider that this is a major public health issue that we are facing. So far it appears as if the body’s tolerance to honey is better than to conventional sugars.

Apitherapist’s around the world utilize honey for its amazing healing properties. The applications for acne, burns, diabetes ulcerations, sores, shingles, wound care and general skin care are immense. In a groundbreaking move the FDA recently licensed and authorized the sale of the first ever wound care treatment made from honey.

Did you know that a spoonful of honey per day keeps free radicals at bay?

Fresh Ideas For Better Breath

2008-02-25T13:00:00.003-05:00

Let’s face it; we have all had the proverbial bad breath, usually at the all important first meeting or a first kiss. For some, chronic halitosis is often dealt with a regiment of wintergreen breath mints, spearmint gum and peppermint breath spray. It is worth mentioning that bad breath can often be a sign of an even greater problem like gum disease, sinus infections, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney problems.

Many over the counter products contain alcohol which can be very drying to the mouth and in some cases actually creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Also, consider this statement: “Warning: Do not use if irritation persists. Keep out of reach of children under 6 years of age. If more than used for brushing is accidentally swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.” This is what you will find on the label of most commercial toothpastes. Imagine, this is a product that you use everyday for most of your life.

There is a natural way to achieve your freshest breath ever and this includes herbs and essential oils. Chew on fresh sprigs of herbs and spices like Anise, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Clove, Coriander, Peppermint, and Sage. My personal favorite is peppermint essential oil, production from this cool, clear refreshing liquid began in the 1700’s and is obtained much in the same manner by distillation of the leaves. Historically, peppermint was used to flavor mints, toothpaste and gum. This oil offers more than just flavor it also contains pharmacologically active constituents that make it antibacterial and antiseptic which are two important components in fighting bad breath.

I have always made my own toothpaste simply because there isn’t much to commercially prepared toothpastes. They usually contain sodium laurel sulfate to make a foam, fluoride which is ever so abundant in our drinking water and peppermint for flavor. Here are two recipes that you can easily make at home.

Mouth Rinse:
Add 1/2tsp Peppermint to 8 ounces of distilled water, store in glass jar and use a small amount to gargle and freshen breath. Carry remainder in a travel size spray bottle to keep your breath fresh throughout the day.

Tooth Polish:
This old fashioned recipe is simple to make and easy to use. Mix ½ cup baking soda with 1/8 tsp Peppermint, blend ingredients thoroughly and store in container. Sprinkle mixture onto toothbrush to make your pearly whites shine.

If you would like me recipe for making your own toothpaste, send me an email with toothpaste recipe in the subject line.

Would you trade your toothpaste in for peppermint?

Our Food Supply Is A Hazard To Your Health

2008-02-18T21:36:00.004-05:00

The FDA Maintains That No Labeling Or Disclosure Requirements Are Necessary To Protect Public Health

As the old saying goes, “you are what you eat,” and now more than ever this is worth paying serious attention to! The future of our food supply looks pretty bleak from where I am sitting.

Fast forward to a menu that may include cloned meat, irradiated food with a pinch of formaldehyde and a cocktail of chemicals in your fruits and vegetables. Its’ worth noting that the levels of hormone-disrupting environmental toxins in the food chain has increased. These deleterious toxins commonly known as PCB’s have demonstrated the ability to disrupt the endocrine system and can wreak havoc throughout entire body. And finally, let’s not forget about imported food, the FDA does not have time to regularly monitor.

Most of us are greatly undernourished and this can lead to anyone one of the following conditions; arthritis, asthma, constipation, chronic fatigue syndrome, eczema, irritable bowel syndrome, migraine headaches, psoriasis and the list goes on.

To protect yourself and your family, it’s important to read labels and become more informed as to how your food is cultivated and where it originates. When buying certified organic always look for the USDA Organic label. Buy locally, this will not only support local farmers but you know the environment in which your food is grown. Also consider, making your own garden or if you are limited on space container gardening is a great option.

Did you know that many countries will not accept US food for import?

Love Yourself and Look Outside the Box When it Comes to Your Health and Wellness

2008-02-11T00:13:00.000-05:00

It’s been said that “accepting ones self is the first step to greater enlightenment.” I find people taking necessary steps day by day. I also find it sad that in the United States we have the highest levels of income and education and drive the nicest cars but have the highest rates of depression, mental illness and suicide when compared to similar industrialized nations.

The ways in which you deal with stress and your life in general can profoundly impact the quality. Modifying your behaviors through alternative therapies can offer a framework and starting point to begin.

Overall, individuals who take into consideration the 5 elements listed below generally report better feelings associated to health and wellness.

1. Boost your immune system through meditation: This is number one for reducing stress and illness, there is some science to back it up. In a study conducted at Harvard University, 24 employees from a biotech firm were trained in mindfulness meditation. They were encouraged to practice this for one hour per day for six days a week. At the end of the eight week trial period the meditators and a control group received flu vaccinations. Tests conducted four months later showed that employees who meditated produced significantly more antibodies then the control group.

2. Achieve balance by stopping to smell the roses: All of our lives seem to be on fast forward at times. That is why it is essential to take time out for yourself and do something that brings peace and relaxation; aromatherapy, art therapy, gardening, music therapy and so on.

3. Connect with others and nature: Escaping the concrete and asphalt jungles that comprise our daily environments is key. Cultures that incorporate green landscapes, trees and grass tend to feel more connected to the earth. This in turn creates a state of harmony. Find time to spend outdoors with family and friends. Regular exercise outdoors is also a way to fill this void and get fit.

4. Get the right nutrition: Whether you are a vegan, raw foodist or the average joe, getting the right nutrition is often overlooked but is vital to your health and wellness. Consuming herbs either in tea or in food can supplement a balanced diet and offers some vital nutrients that you might be missing. I also recommend buying produce from your local area, this will support small farmers and you know where you food is coming from.

5. Get moving! The US Surgeon General recommends getting a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week. Also consider other forms of movement and exercise like Tai Chi, Yoga, Martial Arts and dance. The overall positive effects of exercise on health and disease are far too long for this post. Don’t delay, the outcomes can be felt quickly with a regular routine in place.

How do you achieve balance and do you love yourself?

It would be great to hear from you and by sharing your stories others can find inspiration from you!

Hello Alternative Therapy Bloggers.

2008-02-04T16:13:00.000-05:00

Greetings, and welcome to my alternative therapies blog!

My introduction to natural health and wellness was by my grandmother who always gave me natural ingredients like honey, bee pollen and ginseng root. Her old-fashioned remedies were purely based on anecdotal information and family recipes.

Since then I have been afforded the opportunity of working with medical and alternative healthcare professionals throughout the United States. For the past 15 years, I have been working in the field of Complementary Alternative Medicine with a focus on plant based medicines.

As an Instructor, I lecture for the Miami Dade College's Continuing Education for Health Care Careers, teaching courses on, "Healthy Living with Alternative Medicine." My current interest is in the Green movement currently taking place in the US. To me, it is more than just a matter of sustainability; it fully encompasses human health as well.