Pau d’arco is a tree that grows in the Brazilian rainforest. In Brazil the tree is called Tahuari and has been used by the indigenous people in the rainforest as a cure-all. Pau d’arco has two constituents that have interest to medical science Beta-lapachone and lapachol which are topoisomerases that have been proven in medical science to be anti-cancer agents. However, there is a dark side They can have side-effects of severe nausea and anemia.

These two constituents in pau d’arco have been shown to help dramatically improve cancer patients with lung, breast, colon, prostate, malignant melanoma, HIV level 1 and leukemia. However the nausea and anemia side effects have caused doubt in doctors’ minds as to its effectiveness. Doctors have isolated two of pau d’arco’s components and say they are great anti-cancer compounds but they are toxic at high levels. Herbalists believe in aiding and preserving nature, not changing it; therefore, they believe pau d’arco should be taken as an extract of a whole plant where it has no known toxicity levels, no nausea and no anemia – not as isolated compounds. It is naturally not as strong as taking 10 tons of plant material and extracting two of the hundreds of constituents and making it a concentrated pharmaceutical. However, taken as a tea or extract it has many wonderful benefits and someone with a serious illness, under a doctor’s supervision, can take pau d’arco and see positive changes.

Pau d’arco has been shown to help with pain and cancer. Cancer patients found themselves in remission after a 3-8 of months of using pau d’arco with supervised medical care. Dr. Theodore Meyer learned of pau d’arco’s benefits and used it on his patients, and reported that 5 of his terminal leukemia patients were completely cured. Beta-lapachone keeps the chromosomes wound tight, and so the cell cannot make proteins. As a result, the cell stops growing. Because cancer cells grow and reproduce at a much faster rate then normal cells, they are more vulnerable to topoisomerase inhibition than are normal cells. Beta-lapachone also interferes with the replication of HIV-1, a virus that causes AIDS, thereby slowing the advancement of the disease.

Maybe modern science will find a way to take out the components that cause side effects when you take highly concentrated forms of compounds isolated from pau d’arco. Scientists have discovered 3-allyl-beta-lapachone, a chemical relative to beta-lapachone, that has been found to have lower toxicity levels in cell culture tests, and might be proven to be more effective. However, more tests will need to be done so that doctors and scientists might be able to come up with an effective cocktail, like they do for HIV and AIDS patients. This would create a combination to balance the side effects with other herbs that could reduce the nausea and anemia, and which has no contra-indications when taken with pau d’arco. For instance, there are two traditionally used herbal extracts that are effective when taken internally for severe nausea Chamomile flower and nutmeg. Further, dandelion root has extremely high iron content and might help combat the anemia.

This research article was written to create awareness and provide consumers with a general overview of available scientific information. For further interested reading, there is a 152-page book called Pau D’Arco by Kenneth Jones that is recommended by the American Botanical Council. It is available from Amazon.com for 7.50.

Therapeutic massage is the use of massage to heal mental and bodily aches and strains. Also known as manipulative therapy, therapeutic massage provides physical and psychological benefits. Physically, the effects of massage include injury healing, pain management and circulation improvement. The psychological aspects, through muscle manipulation leading to tension relief achieved by manipulating the muscles, are known to relieve stress. Multiple types of therapeutic massage exist, utilizing various techniques and concentrating on various parts or problems of the body. Therapeutic massage has a long and vivid history, and can claim Hippocrates and Julius Caesar as proponents of its uses and benefits.

Therapeutic massage, through the application of manual andor mechanical-aid pressure to the soft tissues of the body, eases much of the accumulated tension in the muscles. This tension relief is extremely helpful in situations when time is the best medicine. For example, strained and pulled muscles will only cure after time and through patience; massage can be extremely helpful in making the former go by faster and the keeping the latter with you. Muscle aches and pains, which accumulate as a result of stress, are greatly soothed by massage. A continuous regimen of massage therapy can reduce the aches and pains in the long term as well as the short term. Bad circulation, which can be the result of many factors, can be increased through massage. Of course, a healthy lifestyle consisting of a correct diet and sufficient exercise is needed to maintain healthy circulation, but massage does stimulate the blood vessels near the skin, thus improving circulation nearest to the skin.

It is a known fact that when we feel good physically, our psychology improves as well. Massage feels good physically as it lightly stirs our muscles and puts pressure on sensitive spots. This physical calm affects the mental state as well. While tension and pain are being released from our bodies, the mind is able to rest at ease, forgetting the pressures, both physical and emotional, of everyday life. Physical and mental health are cyclically related, as we are also apt to be physically more active in life when we feel good psychologically.

The range of therapeutic massage that exists is quite varied. For the athlete, there is the sport massage the manipulation of muscles and tissues to keep them from tenseness and soreness which reduces the risk of injury. For the injured athlete or any injured person, for that matter, there exists the remedial massage, which concentrates on the injured area, and probably will include physical therapy to rebuild those muscles. Reflexology, derived from an Asian form, is massaging feet andor hands to achieve relaxation throughout the body, as points in our hands and feet are connected to points throughout our body. Swedish massage focuses on deep massage of the muscles in the direction of blood flow to the heart. This type of massage is both beneficial for muscles and the circulation system. These above-listed types are a few of the various methods of therapeutic massage. Depending on personal needs and injuries, the specific therapeutic massage best for the specific need should be chosen.

Hippocrates is known to have said A physician must be experienced in many things but assuredly also in rubbing.” Thus, the father of modern medicine confirmed his belief in the benefits of massage to medicine. Julius Caesar is known to have had regular massage treatments, for certainly, in between conquering empires, de-stressing his body was very important. Massage therapy has been used throughout the centuries, and is known to have been used as early as the Egyptian times paintings depict the royalty receiving massage. Modern society is discovering the benefits, both physical and psychological, of massage. As knowledge of these ancient techniques increases, awareness of their benefits grows, and the popularity increases. It is becoming easier and more accessible to get virtually any type of therapeutic massage in most cities, and is quickly spreading to regions outside of metropolitan areas. Massage, as the millennium-old therapy shows, is not a temporary fad. It is a method of pain and stress a lleviation that is becoming accepted by the medical community as an important supplement to various treatments. Therapeutic massage, through muscle manipulation, can be extremely beneficial to living a healthy life. When the body feels free and easy, the mind follows suit, and the path is paved for a healthy life.

The characteristics of rosemary essential oil can be described as a colorless or pale yellow mobile liquid with a strong, fresh, minty-herbaceous scent and a woody-balsamic undertone. It blends well with lavender, oregano, thyme, pine, basil, peppermint, elemi, cedarwood, petitgrain, cinnamon and other spice oils.

The principal constituents of rosemary essential oil are pinenes, camphene, limonene, cineol, borneal, camphor, linalol, terpineol, octanone, and bornyl acetate. General actions on the physiology include analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue, choleretic, cicatrizant, cordial, cytophylactic, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, fungicidal, hepatic, hypertensive, nervine, parasiticide, restorative, rubefacient, stimulant circulatory, adrenal cortex, hepatobiliary, stomachic, sudorific, tonic nervous, general, and vulnerary.

Scientists have found rosemary essential oil beneficial in the treatment of various ailments including acne, baldness and hair care, dry & damaged over-processed hair, congested & dull skin, dandruff, aches & pains, arthritis, debilitypoor muscle tone, gout, muscle stiffness, muscular cramp, poor circulation, low blood pressure, rheumatism, liver congestion, fever, nervous exhaustion, fatigue, neuralgia, sciatica, eczema, greasy or oily skinscalp, insect repellent, lice, scabies, slack tissue, cellulitis, edema, water retention, sprains, strains, asthma, bronchitis, coughs, whooping cough, colic, indigestion, flatulence, dysmenorrhea, leucorrhea, coldsflu, headache, nervous tension, and stress-related conditions.

Although rosemary essential oil has many benefiting qualities, there are some contra-indications. High doses of rosemary essential oil taken orally have been found to be neurotoxic. It is recommended that people who are pregnant or have high blood pressure should not use rosemary essential oil, and people who are epileptic or show signs of epilepsy should not use rosemary essential oil in any instance. The camphor constituent in rosemary has been known to induce seizures in epileptics. In extremely rare instances rosemary essential oil has been found to induce epileptic-like seizures in people with no known medical history of seizures; however, scientists have found rosemary essential oil to be safe when used topically. It has been reported to be non-toxic, non-irritant in dilution only, non-phototoxic and non-sensitizing.

Rosemary hydrosol is the plant distillate water remaining from producing the essential oil. Hydrosols are growing in demand and now some distilleries are making hydrosols as the primary production, not the by-product from distilling essential oils. Some hydrosols are edible but are best used as sprays for various things. Rosemary hydrosol has a surprising floral scent and taste, and when used as a drink has no sharpness. Consumers should practice safety when using hydrosols The same contra-indications and safety warnings apply for both the hydrosol and essential oil of rosemary.

Rosemary hydrosol has been shown to be helpful with treatment concerning the gallbladder, digestion, detoxification, as a diuretic, antioxidant, as a toner for oily to normal skin, protecting hair keeping it shiny and soft, dry and over-processed hair, acne, and as a circulatory stimulant. You can add it to your conditioners and shampoos for healthier hair or as an after-shower spray just mist evenly throughout your hair, then comb through. It can also be used in the kitchen as a flavor enhancer.

These two forms of rosemary can be used topically to help with many specific ailments as well as general well-being. For those who find the odor of rosemary to be too sharp or prefer to take herbal extracts as supplements for general health, rosemary leaf extract is available for internal use. Rosemary leaf herbal extract acts as a circulatory and nervine stimulant, which in addition to the toning and calming effect on the digestion makes it a remedy that is used where psychological tension is present.

The main constituents in the herbal extract are 1 volatile oil including borneol, linalol, camphene, cineole and camphor; tannins, bitter principle, and resins. These components have general actions and properties that are carminative, aromatic, antispasmodic, antidepressant, rubefacient, parasiticide, antimicrobial, astringent, emmenagogue, nervine, and stimulant.

Published recommended dosage of rosemary leaf herbal extract is 1-2 ml of tincture 3 times per day. The herbal extract is primarily used for debilitypoor muscle tone, depression, fibrositis, pain, and vomiting.

Albertas one of a kind wellness center featuring 7 therapeutic studios, an infrared sauna, healthy coffee and smoothie bar, storefront, classes, workshops and a beautiful, fully appointed seminar room. The system reduce Cellulite, improve skin tone and elasticity. Burn 600 or more calories per 30 minute session, cardiovascular support; Detoxify and cleanse your body.

Iridology iridodiagnosis is an alternative medicine method whose proponents believe that patterns, colors, and other characteristics of the iris can be examined to determine information about a patient’s systemic health. Practitioners match their observations to iris charts which divide the iris into zones which they correspond to specific parts of the human body. Iridologists see into your eyes, the body’s state of health.

Edmonton Reflexology is the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hand with specific thumb, finger and hand reflexology techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with a premise that such work effects a physical change to the body

Albertas Zone therapy is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.

Edmonton Acupuncture has been a major part of primary healthcare in China for the last 5,000 years. It is used extensively for a variety of medical purposes ranging from the prevention and treatment of disease, to relieving pain and anesthetizing patients for surgery. As in many oriental medicine practices, the emphasis of acupuncture is on prevention. The highest form of acupuncture was given to enable you to live a long, healthy life.

You can attend in order to train both spiritual and physical human sides so you can be more satisfied and is also a perfect method of living a long, healthy, and happy life. Edmonton yoga classes means simultaneously healing, prevention, and maintenance and the essence is to control yourself.

Learn how to lose weight effectively and easily by using weight control workshop in order to eat what your body needs. Forget the fad diets This program will help you reprogram your behavior so you’ll maintain healthy habits for life. Expert advice from a nutritionist will guide you in choosing foods that satisfy both your mind and body. It can be done Find out how to eat well while eating healthfully.

In our last article, we briefly discussed Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. This article will take a close look at the cause, symptoms, and current treatment used for Osteoarthritis. So lets take a second look at what Osteoarthritis is.

Osteoarthritis is known by many as wear and tear Arthritis. It is one of the most common forms of Arthritis and is the result of cartilage wearing away from the joints. This cartilage is responsible for the smooth gliding of joints, and once it begins to deteriorate, the patient is left with pain, joint swelling and inflammation, and even deformity.

Osteoarthritis patients usually state that their pain is greatest during times of movement, and then lessens significantly during periods of rest. Osteoarthritis affects many more women than men. There is an estimated 24 million Osteoarthritis sufferers in the United States and roughly 74 are women.

The cause of Osteoarthritis is not known, yet doctors have many suspicions. Some of the symptoms of Osteoarthritis boggle the minds of scientists and more research needs to take place to determine the actual root of the disease. For instance, X-rays can tell that Arthritis is present, yet the amount of pain reported by Osteoarthritis sufferers differs from the results of the X-ray. Though many people refer to Osteoarthritis as the wear and tear disease, evidence shows that this disease and its mysterious cause are not as simple as that definition. In fact, wear and tear does not take place in just one joint, but affects joints simultaneously throughout the body. An example of this, is that sufferers with Osteoarthritis of the knee, offer suffer Osteoarthritis in the hand. Also, doctors have noted that patients dont suffer with Osteoarthritis on just one side of the body as would be expected due to wear and tear but because it seems to affect the body concurrently, it appears that Osteoarthritis is a systematic disease affecting all of the cartilage at once.

One suggestion is that Osteoarthritis is a result of cartilage that has stopped functioning at optimum level. Cartilage is continuously undergoing a process where it is broken down, then rebuilt. Some theories state that this process becomes unbalanced and out of hand. This is referred to as End Stage Osteoarthritis. It is at this stage that joint pain and impairment begin to manifest. There are many natural remedies that show promise in the management of Osteoarthritis pain and symptoms. Look for future articles in our Arthritis Series that will offer natural remedies that may prevent enzymes from damaging cartilage.

Some other ideas that point to the cause of Osteoarthritis include

Previous Sports related or Joint Injuries
Genetically Inherited it appears that Osteoarthritis runs in families
Repeated Occurrences of Bleeding into a Joint as occurs with Hemophilia and other diseases
Repeated Occurrences of Gout and Gout like Diseases
Avascular Necrosis- this is a condition where blood near a bone is cut off, this leads to bone death as well as joint damage. Avascular Necrosis typically afflicts the hip joint.
Previous Rheumatoid Related Illness- such as Rheumatoid Arthritis can lead to chronic inflammation of the joints.
Osteoporosis-due to the high risk of bone fractures and injury, Osteoarthritis may develop in joints.
Metabolic Disorders- for example, Hemochromatosis can result in high levels of Iron being deposited in the joints
Joint Infection-It is believed that cartilage may deteriorate in people who have defects in their cartilage and joints.

Weve discussed the potential causes of Osteoarthritis, now it is time to look at the various symptoms of Osteoarthritis. The symptoms of Osteoarthritis include

Joint Pain- this tends to be worse when rising in the morning
Joint Swelling and Inflammation- this occurs during periods of activity
Feeling a Grinding Sensation when a Joint is moved
Loss of Mobility and Flexibility

There is no sure way to prevent Arthritis in any of its forms. There are however some things that you can do to help lower your risk of developing Osteoarthritis or any other type of Arthritis. Some of the preventative methods that you may add to your lifestyle today include

Maintain an Ideal Body Weight
Take steps to prevent the development of Osteoporosis. Some of these include taking adequate Vitamin D and Calcium, exercising, and taking medication if needed.
Do your best to prevent injuring your bones and joints try to avoid accidents such as sports related, implementing joint protection by using splints and braces.

The Big Apple is a place where you have to keep on your toes to get ahead. If the pace of life has caused you to lose a little of your luster, there are places you can take a quick timeout.

De-Stress Day Retreats In New York City

Living in New York is hectic. With all the hustle and bustle of living in the world’s busiest metropolitan area, you might be in need of a way to relax and fast! It’s not always easy to drop everything and take a week off to regroup. That’s why it’s a great thing to look into the New York City day retreats that are available for your use. You can have a few hours of relaxation and then go back to your working world, all without ever leaving the comfort of the city.

Juvenex is a New York City institution that touts itself as the most romantic of the New York City retreats. Juvenex combines American, Asian and European rejuvenation and relaxation services to create an experience that will get you back on your feet. Open for just women during the day 6 am to 7pm, Juvenex also welcomes couples from 7 pm on, making it a great place for those who want to enjoy their experience with their significant others. When the stress of daily life has put a crimp in your relationship, Juvenex is the place to work those knots out.

Juvenex offers packages for their various treatments, such as purification and beautification rituals, as well as packages for couples. The couples packages include romantic massages and soaks in the Private Soaking Tub in Juvenex’s celebrity room. It’s an experience you won’t forget, all while you stay within New York City.

If you’re looking for a traditional European experience in European New York City day retreat, why not try Faina European Day Spa. It is located in the heart of New York City. Faina offers many different rejuvenation and relaxation packages, which include such treats as seaweed wraps along with facials, pedicures, manicures and massages. Also available at Faina are mens services, perfect for that special guy in your life or the stressed out executive. Treat that man in your life to a special facial, deep tissue massage or reflexology, a perfect gift of a relaxing experience for your Dad, husband or other significant other.

Enjoying New York City day retreats can be as simple as walking a few blocks from your home or place of work. Be sure to book your treatments ahead of time.