Journal
Science-Backed Remedies for Inflammation, Pain and Arthritis
Patients diagnosed with inflammation, pain and arthritis are commonly prescribed Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAID’s). Waiting lists for common surgeries like hip replacements are now longer than ever, causing misery for many. Unfortunately while patients wait, medical conditions deteriorate, pain increases and quality of life is diminished. Inflammation can effect any of the joints and it is common for patients to complain of painful fingers, toes, knees, shoulders, neck and hips. First thing in the morning stiffness and pain can often be worse. Sometimes improving when up and moving around. Due to the current situation and delayed operations, more and more people are offered prescription drugs to alleviate pain and inflammation. Most commonly Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac and Mefenamic acid are prescribed. NSAID’s can provide great relief, but they are not without risk. They raise the possibility of heart attack, internal bleeding, stroke, renal damage and cause vitamin and mineral deficiency. It is therefore useful to consider other avenues for pain relief and inflammation reduction, avoiding the risks these pharmaceuticals bring. Diet and Inflammation – What to Avoid What to Include Avoid gluten – studies confirm gluten-free diet may improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, even in patients resistant to conventional drug therapies. Don’t go nuts with nuts – Nuts are high in phytic acid which can be inflammatory. Soaking does reduce this effect. According to studies we absorb around 20 percent more zinc and 60 percent more magnesium from our food when phytic acid is absent. Include ginger in the diet – Ginger has been found to stop further progress or even reverse the damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Studies show it helps relive pain and improve joint function. Stop using vegetable oils – the manufacturing process creates a polyunsaturated, oxidised fat that creates a huge amount of inflammation within the body. “It’s the dose that makes the poison”, Paracelsus. Eating one packet of crisps a day is equivalent to drinking 5 litres of cooking oil a year. Make sure you are getting enough Vitamin C – Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a major component of joints. It also helps clear the body of free-radicals. Studies show that people whose diets are regularly high in vitamin C have significantly less risk of their arthritis progressing. Address any allergies – Patients often feel severe pain after eating foods they should avoid which trigger the immune system to produce inflammation. Suspect gluten, acidic foods and members of the nightshade family. Celery and ginger juice – Start the day with an anti-inflammatory celery and ginger juice packed with antioxidants including quercetin and ferulic acid. Antioxidants combat free radical damage that contributes to inflammation. Drink tea – Green, black and white contains anti-inflammatory compounds like polyphenols. Green tea is the most beneficial due to its active ingredient “epigallocatechin-3-gallate” or EGCG, shown to have antioxidant activity 100 times stronger than vitamins C and E which preserves cartilage and bone. Avoid processed foods Top Tried and Tested Anti-inflammatory, Pain Relieving Products Terranova Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Boswelia Complex – Studies show Boswellia (frankincense) is effective in reducing inflammation, lessening the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Frankincense extract may help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Compared to a placebo, frankincense was consistently more effective at reducing osteoarthritis pain and improving mobility. Inflammation and pain is further reduced by the additional therapeutic ingredients of ginger and nettle. This unique product has been shown to improve pain within 5 days at a dose of 4 capsules per day. Two capsules in the morning and two at night. ReMag Magnesium – reduces inflammation, pain, improves bone health and reduces the inflammatory marker CRP. Planet Paleo Active Collagen – Provides strength and flexibility and is the major constituent of bone mass. Studies show collagen improves joint pain. This particular collagen has additonal natural anti-inflammatory ingredients. Lamberts Devil’s Claw – Devil’s claw extract has a clinically beneficial effect in the treatment of arthrosis of the hip or knee. It can be very good for easing stiffness in the joints. Lamberts Glucosamine Complete – with Rosehip, MSM, Chondroitin, Quercetin and Ginger. A wonderful preventative supplement and ideal for active conditions. Curcumin x 4000 High Potency Turmeric Capsules – Curcumin the main component of turmeric has been shown to significantly improve morning stiffness, walking time and joint swelling. This particular product has shown an increase in utilization up to 20-45 times compared to ordinary Curcumin supplements. Magnesium bath salts – put 2 generous handfuls in the bath and soak for at least 20 minutes Raw Apple Cider Vinegar – place 1 tablespoon in a glass of warm and consume first thing in the morning. This list is not exhaustive. For further information and guidance please get in touch.
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HEALTHY LIVING TIPS FOR MEN
Men’s health is quite often sidelined. We assume that they are tough and resilient, the stronger sex, and in some ways they are. But like women, with their unique makeup, they face health trials and worries. Sadly suicide remains as the most common cause of death in men between the ages of 20-49 in the UK. A horrifying statistic clearly indicating a need for men to be both seen and heard. Maintaining physical and mental well-being will go some way to hopefully reducing these statistics. As with the female sex, nutrition, sleep, exercise, emotions and surrounding environment have a huge impact on emotional and physical health. It is apparent that taking responsibility for one’s own health is paramount. With the discovery of epigenetics we know we can influence our genes on a daily basis by everything we do, for better or worse. A few simple tweaks and the adoption of healthier habits can make all the difference, to life and longevity. SIX WAYS TO LIVE BETTER Sleep – it just might be the first pillar of health. It is clear that broken sleep leads to a decline in physical and mental health. Coping mechanisms reduce, whilst cognitive function declines. Sleeplessness in men is associated with erectile dysfunction, sleep apnea, coronary heart disease, lower urinary tract symptoms, male infertility, depression and low testosterone. Studies show that men with sleep disorders are more prone to prostate cancer. Having less than 6 hours a night in middle age is also linked to the development of dementia. During the hours of sleep the brain literally rids itself of waste, (associated with Alzheimer’s) via the glymphatic clearing system. Sleep must be a priority, with support put in place to remedy any issues. Nutrition – Avoid Omega 6 seed oils which promote oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Consume butter from grass-fed cattle, olive oil and coconut oil instead. Ensure the inclusion of berries and bright coloured fruit. Eggs are ideal for supporting eye health. They are a superfood in their own right, only lacking Vitamin C. They have been demonised in the past but are a significant source of carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against cataracts and macular degeneration. Consume meat from pasture-raised animals and a good variety of organic fruit and vegetables. Don’t forget the huge benefits from herbs and spices. If you are concerned about cholesterol I recommend reading The Great Cholesterol Con by Dr Malcolm Kendrick. Heart – Poor sleep, stress and inflammation can have a devastating effect on heart health. Adopt a healthy exercise routine. It was found over a 20 year period that men who engaged in physically active leisure activities were up to 21% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease or to die of any cause during the study period. Removing inflammatory foods that drive heart disease, ie vegetable oils and margarine is of great importance. It is important to note that magnesium is depleted through stress, alcohol consumption and exercise. Replenishment is necessary considering magnesium is essential for maintaining a steady heartbeat and normal blood pressure. It keeps bones strong, muscles working properly and can help anxiety and depression. Prostate – An adequate dietary intake of zinc is essential for men over 50. Studies show that maintaining zinc status helps prevent prostate disease from developing or progressing further. Interestingly vegetarians may have a 50% greater need for zinc due to the high level of phytates in beans and pulses, which reduce zinc absorption. Similarly a commonly prescribed drug, Omeprazole for lowering stomach acid, has a detrimental effect on zinc absorption. In patients taking omeprazole there was a marked increase of zinc deficiency (from 16 to 50% within 2 months) upon beginning treatment with the drug. Red meat, shellfish and pumpkin seeds are good sources of zinc. Gut – Researchers have found that the gut microbiome of men and women differs significantly. This is more than likely due to the hormonal influence of oestrogen in women and testosterone in men. Poor gut health effects mental health. And poor mental health has a detrimental effect on the gut. The vagus nerve sends signals up and down, brain to gut and gut to brain. A healthy gut microbiome is vital for a healthy immune system and mental resilence. Read more here on ways to a healthy gut. Get it off your chest – it’s not only good to talk, it could be life saving. I am encouraged that I now meet men seeking help for anxiety disorders. Work pressure, troubled relationships, money concerns and low self esteem can all lead to feelings of despair. And yet the adage ‘”a problem shared is a problem halved” is true and off-loading burdensome worries and voicing them is the beginning of recovery. Recommended supplements A probiotic formulated especially for men – NaturesPlus – GI Natural Probiotic Men 3 Clinically researched male supporting strains supporting reproductive & testosterone health in men 21 total strains of beneficial probioticsProvides complete digestive and immune support Counters the effects of ageing on intestinal and reproductive health. Helps balance cholesterolImproves immunity and allergy related inflammation With Saw Palmetto for testosterone and prostate support Buy here. Ashwagandha for sleep, energy, a healthy stress response, enhanced muscle strength and endurance, increased testosterone levels, infertility and libido. Buy here. Man 50+ Prostate complex to support prostate health Buy here. ReMag liquid magnesium to support heart health.
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10 Signs that You Need to Look After Your Lymph System and How to Do It
The lymphatic system can be thought of as the body’s drainage system. As with most of the wonderful workings of the body, the lymphatic system isn’t discussed much, that is, until something goes wrong. In fact it is generally only talked about when someone complains of swollen glands. This amazing network of tissues, glands and organs moves toxins and waste through the body, where they are then discarded or reused. The main function of the lymphatic system is the transportation of lymph fluid which contains white blood cells. White blood cells are instrumental in fighting infection and ridding the body of disease-causing microorganisms. In fact you have twice as much lymph fluid as blood. When the lymphatic system is clogged up toxins can accumulate and immunity is lowered. This leaves the body more susceptible to chronic diseases, including cancer. 10 Signs of a Congested Lymphatic System Swollen glands Lowered immunity Stiffness and soreness on rising Breast swelling and tenderness associated with menstrual cycle Rings feeling tight on fingers Itchy skin Bloating Mild headaches Fluid retention Brain fog Main Causes of Congested Lymphatic System Stress – leading to cortisol release. The acidic nature of cortisol can suppress immune function and hamper lymph flow, leading to a breakdown of lymphoid tissue. Poor gut health – the majority of lymph surrounds the gut. If there are digestive imbalances or allergies the intestinal villi (tiny hair-like projections that line the inside of the small intestine) become irritated. Healthy villi are vital for detoxification, unhampered lymph flow and immunity. Constrictive clothing – tight fitting bras can hinder lymphatic flow. Over a period of time this may cause impairment of the lymphatic system. The armpits and chest area contain one of the larges clusters of lymph nodes. !0 Ways to Improve Lymphatic Function Move – Exercise is one of the most simple and effective ways to improve lymphatic function. A brisk walk is ideal. Movement increases oxygen supply to the tissues and stimulates blood circulation. Hydrate – A common cause of lymph congestion is dehydration. The lymphatic system is about 95% water. Sipping warm water, lemon water or herbal teas through the day will help. Dandelion tea promotes lymph drainage. Herbs – Two stand out herbs for the lymph system are Cleavers and Echinacea. Please call to order our proprietary Echinacea tincture. Dry skin brushing – Aids the removal of toxins, improves circulation and improves lymph flow. See technique here. Stress reduction – adopt strategies to help alleviate stress and the effects. Deep breathing, exercise and anti-stress adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha and Holy Basil. Consume an anti-inflammatory diet – a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats supports the immune system. Lymphatic vessels found in the intestines become susceptible to deterioration from poor nutrition and allergies. Put your legs up the wall – Improves lymphatic flow in the legs. Break a sweat – Perspiration is how we remove toxins. Infra-red saunas are a useful healing mode of detoxification. Not recommended for those with lymph node removal. Avoid tight fitting garments. Practice deep breathing to encourage lymph flow.
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The Great Mimicker – Ileocecal Valve Syndrome
The ileocecal valve (ICV) is a sphincter muscle in the digestive tract. It opens and closes to allow digested food to pass from the small intestine to the large intestine. If you draw an imaginary diagonal line from your right hip to your belly button, you will find it about two-thirds of the way. Pressing gently but firmly will bring about some tenderness in about 90% of people. At times you might experience ‘puffiness’ in the bottom right quadrant of the abdomen. The food we consume is processed in the small intestine where we absorb the nutrients, the waste material is moved through via the ileosecal valve into the large intestine, never to return. But sometimes it does. If the valve doesn’t function properly it may stay closed, resulting in waste material staying in the small intestine too long. Or it may stay open, allowing waste material, bacteria, to flow back in to the small intestine, where the body starts to absorb it. This leads to toxicity and causes a myriad of symptoms. A Contributing Factor of Poor Health When the ICV malfunctions it can have a huge effect on overall health leading to a feeling of general malaise and other symptoms.. It is a fairly common condition but remains largely undiagnosed and untreated, causing many miserable health conditions. Causes of Ileocecal Valve Syndrome There are several reasons the ICV might malfunction – Stress – as usual, a familiar culprit in many illnesses. Pressure, worry, fear and upset all have an effect on the body. You only have to think about the gut and the vagus nerve connecting to the brain. Thoughts effect our gut health and our gut health effects our mental health. A “gut reaction”. Digestion – Food sensitives, too much cooked food, not enough raw. Not enough stomach acid, or digestive enzymes. Too much roughage. Physical weakness – too little or too much exercise disturbing the digestive system. Energy drains – phones, too much screen time. Electro-magnetic pollution. Symptoms Linked to ICV Malfunction Abdominal pain, SIBO, IBS, gas, gurgling, right groin pain, bloating, distended belly, burping, indigestion, colitis, diverticulitis, nausea. Bad breath, body odour. Joint pain, arthritis, frozen shoulder, hip pain on the right, carpal tunnel syndrome, right shoulder pain at night, headaches, sudden low back pain. Tinnitus and heart flutters. Flu like symptoms, chronic fatigue and general lethargy. Failure to recover from post viral fatigue. Dizziness, dehydration, blurred vision. Depression and nervous debility. Eczema and psoriasis, acne, pale complexion, dark under the eyes. Pseudo sinus infections Treatment Address constipation with herbs to improve peristalsis. For a time eliminate nuts, seeds and wholegrains. Avoid cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli and any food that create gas eg, lentils, beans. Practice ileosecal valve massage. Ask for advice on taking anti-bacterial and anti-fungal herbs – Andrographis, Oregano oil, Allicin releasing garlic supplements, and bitter herbs like Dandelion, Milk thistle and Artichoke. Take digestive enzymes with food. For bloating take activated charcoal – 2 to be consumed 2/3 hours away from food as it can absorb nutrients from the food. Drink warm, soothing, anti-inflammatory Chamomile, Meadowsweet, Marshmallow root tea. Address effects of stress with Lemon balm, Ashwagandha, Passionflower. For more information and support please contact us.
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Take Heart
By Naomi Murray on December 14, 2021 The heart. The organ of life. Located in the centre of the chest, an adult heart measuring about the size of a clenched fist. In 1653 the English physician William Harvey said: “The heart is situated at the 4th and 5th ribs. Therefore [it is] the principal part because [it is in] the principal place, as in the center of a circle, the middle of the necessary body.” In Chinese medicine the heart is known as The Emperor. Every other organ works to serve it. But do we serve it well? How well do we look after this precious gift of life. Heart Gems There are so many things we don’t know about the heart. We take it for granted, we probably barely give it a thought, that is, until something goes wrong. But perhaps we need to treat it with tender loving care, in thought and deed. The rhythm of the heart affects the brain’s ability to process information. The human heart’s magnetic field can be measured several feet away from the body. When a fetus develops, the heart forms and starts beating before the brain begins to develop. A mother’s brainwaves can synchronise to her baby’s heart beats, even when they are a few feet away. The heart sends signals to the brain that can influence perception and emotional experience. The heart sends more information to the brain than the brain sends to the heart. Your heart emits an electromagnetic field that changes according to your emotions. Blood pressure in the heart can squirt blood over 30 feet. The aorta, the largest artery in the body, is almost the diameter of a garden hose. Depression increases heart attack risk. Anger leads to irregular heart beat and increased heart attack risk. Positive emotions like joy, gratitude and laughter have been shown to dramatically reduce heart attack and stroke risk and could even prolong life. Heartfelt emotions “The heart has its reasons which reason knows not.”― Blaise Pascal The heart is the seat of emotions and in fact research shows that sorrow really can break your heart and an angry heart can burst. It has been noted that viewing a stressful football match doubles the risk of a heart attack. Spikes in heart attacks are seen after World Cup events; an experience that can cause such a strong emotional reaction leading to a potential serious health event. We often mention the heart in conversation. These expressions pertain to feelings. We feel from the heart; I didn’t have the heart, a heart of gold, heart goes out to, heart is in the right place, heavy heart, take heart. What is clear is the heart is precious and needs to be treated with tender loving care. Heart Inflammation There is an apparent rise in pericarditis (inflammation of the protective fluid-filled sac) and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). Symptoms include; chest pain, shortness of breath, pounding heart, weakness and fatigue, low grade fever and dizziness. This should be taken seriously and medical advice sought. But there are herbs that can support healing of heart inflammation. There are times when the heart is under pressure emotionally and physically. When this is evident there are heart supportive protocols. Herbs being one of the best. My grandmother made herself Hawthorn tea for decades. Before she died at the age of 97 after a fall, she had the blood pressure of a teenager. She rarely got wound up. The herbs and a peaceful heart served her well. Heart Herbs Hawthorn – helps protect against heart disease. Studies suggest hawthorn increases coronary artery blood flow, improves circulation, and lowers blood pressure. Study. Purchase in-store. Astragalus – a cardiac tonic. It has been found to alleviate chest distress, improve left-ventricular function and has therapeutic effects on sodium and water retention thus improving renal function. Prescribed for myocarditis and for its anti-viral properties. Study. Buy here. Holy basil – has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint and exposure to cold and excessive noise. A herb for all reasons. A powerful anti-stress remedy. Study. Buy here. Garlic – helps prevent cell damage, regulating cholesterol and lowering blood pressure. Other research shows that garlic may also reduce plaque buildup in the arteries. Buy here. Andrographis – Not only is this bitter herb a potent antiviral but studies show beneficial effects in different components of metabolic syndrome, including diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity. Buy here. Schisandra – not only a wonderful adaptogenic herb for those feeling debilitated by negative emotions but a wonderful heart tonic. Study. Buy here. Heart Nutritional Supports Pomegranate Reishi mushroom Co-enzyme Q10 Magnesium Potassium Cacao Berries Green tea Dark chocolate Liver “And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” Antoine de Saint-Exupery
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The Adrenal Cocktail for Stress and Exhaustion
Seated above the kidneys are the adrenal glands. These small organs are responsible for producing hormones including cortisol, aldosterone and adrenaline. They help regulate your metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, response to stress and are vital for other essential functions. Existing in flight or fight mode and in a chronically stressed state the adrenals release greater amounts of cortisol. Adrenal fatigue occurs when the glands become overworked by the release of excess cortisol. They can no longer produce amounts of cortisol and aldosterone necessary for optimal body function. Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms When suffering from adrenal burnout you may experience – Fatigue Nervousness Agitation Weariness Body aches Insomnia Digestive upset Low blood pressure Light headedness Therefore it is vital that the adrenal gland hormones are supported and so this starts with having adequate, balanced minerals. Sodium and potassium are the two most important minerals for maintaining the hormone aldosterone. The orange juice, containing Vitamin C, helps repair the damage caused by stress. The Recipe The Adrenal Cocktail is an orange juice drink composing of just 3 ingredients to support your adrenals during periods of stress and insomnia. In a glass add – 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice or from a carton (not from concentrate) 200ml coconut water OR 1/4 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar (an excellent source of Potassium) 1/4 tsp of sea salt Mix the ingredients well. The Adrenal Cocktail is best consumed around 10am and/or 2pm, when the body naturally starts to run low on adrenal gland hormones. You should feel more rejuvenated and less fatigued. Not to be used as a meal replacement and should be included as part of a normal diet where 3 meals a day are consumed.
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5 Reasons for Hair Loss
Hair loss is an issue that can effect both women and men, resulting in low self esteem and mood. Thinning hair is an indicator of general health, and is an outward sign of an imbalance under the surface. Most products on the market are there for topical use, and if anything will only offer marginal improvement. It is really important to understand the underlying cause. People with hair loss have a tendency towards low thyroid function, hormonal imbalance and elevated stress hormones. As always the best way forward is to look at possible root causes. 5 Reasons Your Hair is Falling Out 1. STRESS Stress is one of the biggest causes of hair loss. This is not only the severe emotional type stress (the loss of a loved one, divorce, house moving, job issues etc) but also those less considered like over-exercise, a low calorie diet, menopause and childbirth. 2. HORMONAL IMBALANCE Too much oestrogen in relation to progesterone happens if oestrogen isn’t metabolised quickly enough. The liver is the main site for oestrogen metabolism, and so liver health should be considered. If there is an imbalance of bacteria in the gut this can also cause oestrogen dominance, as can constipation, leading to the re-circulation of oestrogen. 3. LOW THYROID FUNCTION Hypothyroidism is a condition commonly linked to hair loss. This happens when the body does not produce enough thyroid hormones. See study here, how thyroid hormones directly alter human hair follicle functions. Read here about other signs and symptoms of thyroid disease. 4. LOW IRON It is not advised to supplement with iron unless a test clearly shows a deficiency. It is often the assumed cause of tiredness, but this is not always the culprit. Iron deficiency is more common in women who are menstruating but could also be caused by a vegetarian/vegan diet or low stomach acid causing absorption issues. 5. MEDICATIONS Many drugs like immune-suppressants, chemotherapy drugs and anti-fungals can have the side-effect of hair loss. Some medications are known as ‘drug muggers’, those that deplete the body of essential nutrients. One in particular is the contraceptive pill which has been shown to to deplete magnesium, B6, B12, folate and, zinc. For help and advice on nutrition supplements to support normal hair growth please contact us.
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Silent Inflammation – Brian Lamb, Medical Herbalist
We usually associate inflammation with an injury to the skin such as a cut, scrape or bruise when we see redness and swelling and experience pain. This is a normal protective reaction. However, it is less commonly known that inflammation is at the root of all disease — from the common cold right through to the most serious life-threatening illnesses. Here is the disease cascade of chronic internal inflammation: Inflammation creates free radicals which in turn create systemic toxicity which in turn is the forerunner of chronic disease. When we are ill, we are inflamed on the inside. Fortunately most diseases resolve either spontaneously with time or from help with medication. On the other hand, many people suffer what has been termed ‘silent inflammation’. Silent inflammation is a state of low-grade chronic inflammation below the threshold of frank disease. Silent inflammation is related to lifestyle choices and bad habits. We will give two examples of sources of silent inflammation: smoking and excess alcohol. Most smokers and habitual drinkers of alcohol actually feel perfectly well — but they are not, since silent inflammation sets them up for chronic disease and a shorter life. World wide smoking deaths account for almost 10 million but their demise started with silent inflammation! Bad habits aside, lifestyle choices create chronic low-grade inflammation. Before we explore silent inflammation, it is essential that we understand the life saving role of inflammation. For example, when we cut ourselves, our innate inflammatory response will marshal an astonishingly complex healing process. Similarly when we are invaded by bacteria or viruses our immune system creates an inflammatory response to these potentially life-threatening micro-organisms. Our innate inflammatory responses are turned on and off as required automatically. This is not the case with silent inflammation which serves no useful purpose whatsoever and in fact can set us up as already mentioned for chronic disease. Chronic inflammation damages the entire body but may focus its destructive energy on the circulatory system where it can cause strokes and heart attacks. A depressed immune system results from silent inflammation as does the formation of malignant tumours whilst inflammation in the brain is the forerunner of dementia. The scourge of chronic internal silent inflammation runs rampant through society. To be aware of it is the first step in its correction. In my opinion, by far the greatest source of silent inflammation is from a disturbed digestive system. Many people eat too much, too often and too late in the day and make poor choices with food and drink. Sleep loss is another source of inflammation and the ubiquitous cell phone with its dopamine-addictive nature is the insomniacs worst companion. Moderate daily exercise is a vital component in opposing inflammation. However, no exercise and over-exercise are causes of silent inflammation. Whilst there are many symptoms of silent inflammation. Blood tests are available both on the NHS and privately that will provide assurance or otherwise. However each one of us can do much in the way of self assessment as we make an honest appraisal of the following: weight, sleep, energy, digestion, exercise and emotional harmony. In all of this we need to be encouraged by our extraordinary resilience to life’s stresses but on the other hand we do best when we lead a lifestyle that opposes silent inflammation.
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Kidney and Bladder Cleanse Recipe
Health note by Brian Lamb Medical Herbalist Barley is a specific therapy for the kidneys and bladder. This drink is valuable for eliminating toxins and during a bout of cystitis. In most cases it will assist in the treatment of Eczema or other inflammatory diseases of the skin where the kidneys may be stressed. Here is how to prepare your own kidney cleansing drink: Place 60g (2 oz) pearl barley in a non-aluminium pan and cover with 1000ml water and bring to the boil and simmer on very low heat for at least an hour. Strain off the liquid and make up to one litre by adding more cold water run through the barley in a sieve. Add the juice of a freshly squeezed lemon as this adds an alkalizing action . Drink the barley water throughout the day in cupful amounts. You can sweeten with a little honey, but it is not necessary. Shop bought ‘Lemon & Barley Water’ will not work – it will only add to the toxic burden of the urinary tract – avoid it! Kidney stones – Avoid these high oxalate-containing foods: rhubarb, spinach, beetroot, wheat germ, peanuts, okra, chocolate, black tea, sweet potatoes. You may like to purchase Organic India Liver Kidney to support your health.
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