Defeat Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are extremely difficult to overcome. Because of my many allergies, I used to suffer from serious, lingering sinus infections. It often seemed allopathic medication only created new issues like yeast infections, constipation, or diarrhea. My herbal studies course introduced me to an herbal combination that brought me relief and healing---Goldenseal and Eyebright.

Allopathic drugs, antibiotics, never really healed my sinus infections. I would take course after course of antibiotics and still have lingering problems after months of drugs.  The most obvious problem with antibiotics is that they destroy the healthy gut bacteria.

When taking a course of antibiotics many allopathic physicians now recommend that you take a probiotic or eat yogurt. Taking a probiotic or yogurt to replenish healthy gut bacteria is important. But remember some probiotics do not make it past the stomach, I know this from personal experience. If you have continuing intestinal issues, (gas, bloating, pain, mucus), consider getting an enteric-coated probiotic. The enteric-coated probiotic releases into the intestines and replenishes healthy bacteria.

Frustration and desperation with standardized drugs led me to the study of medicinal herbs. For everyday concerns herbs are much more effective with fewer side effects. Goldenseal is a powerful destroyer of infection, and Eyebright also has anti-bacterial properties while balancing the moisture  level the sinus membranes.

Because infection initiates the immune/inflammatory response, one should cut back on inflammation inducing foods when ill, such as: sugar, white processed flour, grape seed, cottonseed, safflower, corn and sunflower oils, Deep fried foods, fast foods, commercially baked goods, dairy products, feedlot-raised meats, alcohol, and artificial food additives. In other words when your sick keep it simple choose fresh organic fruits (especially pineapple) and vegetables, organic eggs, and organic chicken or turkey.

Goldenseal: Hydrastis Canadensis, Ranunculaceae (buttercup genus)

Goldenseal usually has a tall, fork-like stalk with multiple leaves at its tip. Two leaves are generally located near the ground. During blooming season, greenish or white flowers are at the stalk tip

Goldenseal is found in the eastern region of North America, southeast Canada and parts of Europe. It can be wild-crafted in areas from Ontario, Canada to Arkansas, USA and is cultivated in Washington and Oregon.

The Cherokee, Native Americans, used goldenseal for respiratory inflammation, digestive and genito-urinary tract problems, infection, general debility, dyspepsia, and to improve appetite. The Iroquois used a golden seal root decoction for earache, sore eyes, whooping cough, diarrhea, liver disease, fever, sour stomach, flatulence, pneumonia, and heart trouble.

European immigrants who landed on America learned the benefits of Goldenseal from the native tribes and it became a part of colonial medicinal care. Prof. Benjamin Smith Barton described the herb as an Iroquoian cure for cancer in the 1798 essay “Collections for an Essay Toward a Materia Medica of the United States.” The herb became popular in the early 19th century when renowned herbalist Samuel Thompson who promoted its medicinal benefits.

Modern uses of Goldenseal include used liver disease, duodenal ulcers, loss of eating sensation, swellings, cancer, and as an anti-inflammatory ointment for painful or painless swollen bumps. Goldenseal has been used for: Abscesses, digestion, allergic rhinitis, bladder and intestine infections, boils, candida albicans, glandular cleansing, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, earache, eczema, excessive menstruation, flatulence, gum infections, hemorrhoids, hay fever, laryngitis, liver disease, pneumonia, preventing cold and flu, reducing fevers, liver and spleen functions, constipation, relive congestion and excess mucous, ringworm, soothing irritated mucus membranes (eyes, ears, nose and throat), sores, sour stomach, thrush, ulcers, whooping cough, and wounds.

Drugs. Com tells us “few well-controlled clinical trials are available to guide dosage. Recommended dosages vary considerably: 250 mg to 1 g 3 times daily; some product labeling suggests dosages as high as 3,420 mg/day. Ten to 30 drops of the extract 2 to 4 times a day has been recommended for influenza.”

Goldenseal should be avoided during pregnancy as it stimulates contractions. Consult a physician if you have heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, a stroke, or high blood pressure.

Eyebright: Euphrasia officinalis

Eyebright is a hardy, small annual plant native to Europe and is characterized by deeply cut leaves. Common to the heaths and the pastures of Britain, it is also found throughout much of the European continent. Eyebright is also found in the sub-arctic regions of the North America.

Eyebright tends to be sourced wild because it is hemi-parasitic and cultivation is very hard to accomplish. These wild plant populations are the source for most of the eyebright used in herbal remedies. The plant bears many small flowers and are gathered July to August.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, the herb was used to treatment eye afflictions such as conjunctivitis. Eastern European folk medicine often uses eyebright topically, as well as the internally, for the treatment of inflammations, stinging and weeping eyes, over-sensitivity to light, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, styes, hay fever, chronic sneezing and eye fatigue.

Eyebright reduces inflammation in the eyes and counters mucus accumulations by tightening the mucous membranes around the eyes. As a result eyebright is often used in the treatment of infection and allergic reactions. Eyebright is also excellent middle ear problems, sinus disorders, and mucous in the nasal passages. Eyebright is an astringent herb if dryness or stuffiness increases discontinue use.

Eyebright tea can be taken at a dose of two to three cups every day during the treatment period. The dried herb dosage of 2-4 grams can be taken three times a day, during the treatment period. Eyebright tincture is taken as a single dose of 2-6 ml three time every day of the treatment period.

Safety of internal consumption is not a big concern as Eyebright is an herbal remedy with few or limited side effects. However, women who are lactating or pregnant should avoid use since long-term use with pregnant patients has not been researched.

For those of us with allergic rhinitis, who also worry about the over use of antibiotics, Goldenseal and Eyebright offer real relief with no side effects. These herbs are anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and break down mucus. These amazing plants, with the glorious synergy of perfect nature, can do the work of three different drugs. I call this cost effective!

http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-goldenseal.html

http://www.onlyfoods.net/goldenseal-herb-root-benefits-usage-and-side-effects.html

https://herbalmateriamedica.wordpress.com/2014/04/16/euphrasia-officinalis/

http://www.herbaltransitions.com/materiamedica/Euphrasia.htm

http://www.drugs.com/npp/goldenseal.html

Chronic Muscle Pain

Have you ever heard a physician say to you, “I’m looking at the x-rays and the MRI. I don’t see any thing wrong. There is nothing we can do for you except send you to a pain management clinic?” You go to pain management and their solutions are drugs that cloud you mind, destroy your bones and ruin your liver. Or worse yet, they recommend destroying some of your nerves. It is time to become knowledgeable and proactive.

When you experience a deep, aching muscle pain, a tender knotted muscle, a sensation of muscle weakness, tingling, and stiffness, or difficulty sleeping due to muscle pain that persists or worsens over time this is myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). Tight muscle fibers may form in the muscles after injuries or overuse creating sensitive areas called trigger points. The trigger point causes strain and pain throughout the muscle causing other muscles to try to compensate. Over time this pattern of compensation creates further muscle strain creating a cascading chronic pain.

Fascia is a soft connective tissue located just below the skin, which wraps and connects the muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels of the body. Myofascial release is a massage therapy typically done by sports and rehabilitative massage therapists. MPS most often occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 60 years and affects men and women equally.

Tight muscle fibers occur for various reasons including disuse, not enough stretching, or injuries. The fascia and the underlying muscle tissue can become stuck together creating an adhesion. Adhesions restrict muscle movement, create pain and soreness, reduce flexibility, and may limit range of motion.

Myofascial release is also affective in treating patients with sloppy posture, chronic fatigue, severe tension and anxiety, and repetitive stress injuries. Other factors that increase your risk of muscle trigger points are stress and anxiety. The theory is that these individuals, when stressed, are more likely to clench their muscles, which is a form of repeated strain leaving muscles susceptible to trigger points.

Research suggests that myofascial pain syndrome may develop into fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition, features widespread pain and is believed to occur when the brain has become more sensitive and reactive to pain signals over time.

Trigger points are highly sensitive areas within the muscle, which are painful to touch and may cause pain that is often felt in another area of the body; this is called referred pain. Active trigger points are always sore and may prevent the full use of the muscle leading to weakness and decreased range of motion. A latent trigger point does not cause pain during normal activities, however, it is tender when touched and may be activated by muscle strain, overwork, fatigue, injury or cold.

Often physical therapy is recommended for MPS, which includes stretching, postural and strengthening exercises. Therapeutic massage therapy can loosen tight muscles and relieve cramping or spasms. It is important to address lifestyle factors, such as poor posture, workplace ergonomics, or mechanical problems, hypothyroidism, vitamin D and magnesium levels, as well as stress that contribute to pain.

Lifestyle factors:

•                Improve your posture

•                Reduce your body weight

•                Exercise regularly

•                Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet

•                Learn stress-management techniques

•                Use proper techniques at work, and during exercise and sports

The normal, healthy state of fascia is a relaxed, supple web, like the weave in a loose-knit sweater. Restricted fascia looses pliability and may create pulls, tensions, and pressure as great as 2,000 pounds per square inch. The fascia system is a continuous running from the bottom of the feet through the top of the head and has three layers. Superficial fascia lies directly below the skin and stores fat and water. Nerves to run through it, and allows muscle to move the skin. Deep fascia surrounds and infuses with muscle, bone, nerves, and blood vessels. The deepest fascia interfaces within the durra of cranial sacral [spinal] system.

Fascia restrictions do not show up on MRI scans or X-rays making diagnosis more difficult. Pain caused by myofascial tightness is due to restrictions within the fascial system, which is the web of connective tissue that spreads throughout the body and surrounds every muscle, bone, nerve blood vessel, and organ to the cellular level. These restrictions can play a significant role in the malfunction of the spinal structure; lymph and blood flow in the extremities and proper organ function.

Self care aims to control pain and keep muscles and joints warm and loose and includes:

• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers (herbs such as white willow bark and boswellia)
• Applying heat to soothe constricted muscles or using ice to calm swollen areas
• Performing self-stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and increase range of motion 
• Aerobic exercise to increase blood flow to the affected areas 

Other treatments include: 

• Chiropractic manipulation,
• Physical therapy, or occupational therapy
• Acupuncture

The rehabilitative massage therapist may use light to moderate traction and twisting strokes to apply the appropriate tension on the soft tissue to achieve a full reflex range of the muscle and to unblock fascia and muscle. The therapist may also use a hands-on, kneading-style strokes that are meant to stretch, loosen, soften and lengthen muscle tissues. The stretch is performed until the muscle is totally relaxed and a release is felt.

Myofascial Release is considered a neuromuscular therapy massage. Because painful muscle spasms occur when our muscles lack adequate blood flow. The lack of blood flow allows lactic acid to accumulates in the muscle. Neuromuscular massage disperses the lactic acid so the deficient muscle can accept a clean supply of oxygen and blood flow. 

Does our height need to shrink as we age? Do we need to have age related scoliosis, curvature of the spine? Many body workers, massage therapists say no. They know from the daily practice of their profession that through massage and myofascial stretching people can regain height. There is a theory that some of the shrinking in spinal discs results from the contraction of the fascia---pressing on the discs not allowing proper hydration.

Massage is absolutely essential to healthy aging. And myofascial massage is essential to anyone with chronic muscle pain.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/physical-therapy/myofascial-release-therapy

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/myofascial-pain

Borg-Stein J. Treatment of fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, and related disorders. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2006 May;17(2):491-510, viii.

Past Lives and Regression Therapy

Have you ever watched a movie of a historical event and been overcome with sadness and grief? Have you ever walked into a historical site and experienced extreme anxiety, for no reason?  Have you ever met a stranger and felt déjà vu---we’ve met before? These emotions are not random.

Human beings do not have random emotions. These emotions are attached to unconscious memories. The most effective way to deal with unconscious emotions resulting from traumatic events in this current life, or that are attached to past life events is Past Life Therapy (PLT), which is often called often called Regression Therapy.

To my thinking, Past Life Therapy (PLT) should be called life therapy. As a “life therapy” the goal is to free the individual in all aspects of life---to be the person you want to be mind, body and spirit.

Mind, body, and spirit living is a holistic way of living. In the U. S. we are having a renaissance in our approach to spiritual living. People are recognizing that the enlivening, immortal spirit continues always and is a resource today. We are recognizing that the mind is a nearly unlimited storehouse of data. The beliefs and value judgments we attach to this data create our quality of life mind/emotions, body and spirit.

What is Past Life Regression? It is branch of hypnotherapy, which has grown over the last 50 years to be an important addition to the healing arts. It is a therapeutic technique for accessing and re-experiencing your past lives directly. 

What does the average person have to gain from past life therapy? The most essential answer is to say less stress. Do not underestimate the power of this statement—less stress. Stress leads to inflammation (heart disease, cancer, obesity, high blood pressure diabetes, etc.), emotional issues (depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, obsession, addiction), relationship problems, work problems, negative self-judgment, and more.

The historical or religious connotations of the words “past lives” are a huge topic requiring a knowledge base I do not have---there are many good books in the library. Hans TenDam, Dutch psychologist and internationally known PLT instructor, warns us---don’t get lost in “past life tourism.” In other words, the past life is only important in what it brings to the current life for good or ill.

It is thought that child prodigies who are piano virtuosos, speak languages they have never heard, solve intricate mathematical equations, and have specific knowledge of geography and historical events are really tapping in to past life memories.

According to Hans TenDam, PLT is regression therapy in which we accept that scenes from apparent past lives may emerge. Regression therapy derives its name from its method: recovering and reliving past experiences. The goal is the release of tension and anxiety that results from repressed feelings by bringing memories into consciousness.

Dr. Morris Netherton, my mentor, tells us it is not necessary for the client to believe in past lives for the process to work. Nor does the client need to have a specific religious, or spiritual outlook. What is needed is a willingness to accept that his/her own unconscious mind holds all the answers to current problems. Netherton focuses on the here and now life concerns.

British psychiatrist Denys Kelsey became well known in the 1950’s for his work in past life regression. He compared past-life therapy as a process with his work using traditional psychiatric techniques. Kelsey stated, “In a maximum of twelve hours of regression therapy, I can accomplish what will take a psychoanalyst three years.” (Source: Graham 1976) This speaks to the efficiency, effectiveness of the past-life therapy process.

Past-life therapy is generally short-term therapy, though the sessions are longer and tend to be more intensive than typical psychotherapy. Rabia Clark’s research (1995) shows that most therapists (74%) typically combine working in past lives with other therapeutic methods. Past-life therapy is a specialized form of regression therapy where you may regress to any point in life—adulthood, child hood, infancy, birth and the time in the womb, or previous to now.

Many therapists (26%) also do past-life therapy with children starting at about eight years of age. The main motives are childhood fears and phobias. Other motives are bed-wetting, dyslexia, depression, anger and hyperactivity.

Hans TenDam tells us about one third of clients will experience a past life while about one third remain in this life. About one third relive childhood events that appear to be older traumas that may be stimulated by past life memories. Brian Weiss, MD, psychiatrist in the U. S., (1993) found that about 40% of his patients had to go to past lives to solve their concerns.

Ten Dam tells us 40 percent of clients need regression to previous lifetimes as a key to emotional and physical healing. “When past life therapy is used to bring these long-repressed memories to awareness, improvement in the current symptoms is usually swift and dramatic.”

The clients’ primary motives for past-life therapy:

1.      Fears and phobias.

2.      Relationship problems and problems of connecting with people in general.

3.      Depressions.

4.      Physical complaints without medical explanation or not responding to medical care.

5.      Sexual problems.

6.      Addictions.

7.      Obesity and eating disorders.

Dr. Roger Woolger takes a spiritual approach. In an interview with Simon Martin (Here’s Health, December, 1991), Woolger tells us “past life memories are the autobiography of your eternal soul-—personal stories that explain who you are now and why you’re here on Earth.”

According to Woolger, “Fragments of past life memories often surface in dreams or at unexpected moments, perhaps as inexplicable abilities or as feelings of familiarity with places, historical periods and characters and the like.”

Woolger has a theory that false memories of abuse may be explained by past-life memories resurfacing during trauma. Woolger, states “Child abuse leads to shock, which can put children into an altered psychological state. And in that state they may well contact fragments of memories from past lives.”

Woolger asks, “How many of us through history have lost loved ones, seen our families wiped out by war and plague, and have not grieved? It takes a lot of energy to block feelings of pain, especially when we know we “should” be happy.” Past life/regression therapy gives allows us to put to rest patterns of sadness, sorrow and regret.

Dr. Woolger is a leading theorist and practitioner of past life therapy. His book Other Lives, Other Selves, is viewed to be one of the most comprehensive introductions to the psychological depths of past life regression.

Regression therapy is not to be confused with a past life reading, which is a passive process and has little therapeutic effect. Although some individuals try past life regression out of curiosity to see who they were in the past, for most it’s a path for personal growth and healing.

The benefits of Past Life Regression come with the help of a trained past life therapist, who can help you:

• Release fears and anxieties linked to past life traumas
• See personal relationships in a new light
• Release past life traumas at the root of physical problems
• Energize talents and abilities from the past
• Experience the transitional states of death and beyond
• Understand and align with life purpose 

Carol Bowman tells us we “were born not as a blank slate, but as a soul rich with both the wisdom and scars from many lifetimes.” Our unconscious memories create the patterns of choice and action that we weave into quality of life.

My life has been a tapestry of rich and royal hue, 


An everlasting vision of the ever-changing view


A wondrous woven magic in bits of blue and gold

A tapestry to feel and see, impossible to hold

Read more: Carole King - Tapestry Lyrics | MetroLyrics

www.tasso.nl

http://www.earth-association.org/therapists-bios/hans-ten-dam-bio/

http://www.carolbowman.com/past-life-regression/

Understanding a Past Life Dream

Working through a past life dream is challenging and rewarding. There is no need to feel victimized by dreams and nightmares. Dreams are for healing, learning, and enlightenment (through a process of true acceptance and an action of forgiveness). Mastery of our dreams and past life memories can heal emotional and physical concerns and enhance mental, emotional and spiritual growth.

Past lives reveal the roots of our current patterns of life programming. You can identify: 1.Your coping skills, and hidden strengths and skills: 2. The root of maladaptive behaviors (alcoholism, eating disorders, feelings of financial insecurity); 3. The roots of emotional issues (anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress); and 4. The programming that leads to poor personal relationships at home and work.

How do you know you are working with a past life dream? The dream will feel historical and if you look for skin color, historical modes of dress (look at your feet), transportation, tools, etc.—you will see them. Sometimes a specific name or date sticks in your memory as you awaken. There will be a deep sense of “realness”---this was my life.

Be aware that we have all played many roles: males and females; heroes and villains; victims and victimizers; rich and poor, long lives and short lives; loved and despised; various races; various cultures; and various beliefs.

There are many books that give insights and techniques. For some people and dreams it is enough to recognize the dream as part of yourself, to accept and not judge (forgive). To understand a past life dream, you must look for patterns of cause and effect. (The idea of reward and punishment is too simplistic.) You could try this method:

• Write the dream down---write the dream in first person—“I am___, I did____”
• Tell yourself this is who I was in the past—I am not that person today, I do not have to be that person today
• If you saw something ugly and feel emotionally shocked pray for strength to help you heal---put the dream away until you are ready to work with it.
• Write down specific images that illicit strong emotions and make note of the emotion
• If every thing is hidden in blackness, ask yourself “Am I blind? Is something covering my eyes? Is this so horrible I refuse to see (accept) this event?”
• Go into a meditative state visualize strongly and re-experience the past life
• One of the most important things to do is heal your death---do not take negative thoughts into the next life. For example, say to yourself  “I leave behind fear of drowning—I take perfect beauty, health and self-respect into my next life.”

An actual past life memory, which emerged in a dream:

In the dream I am myself now, but I am looking back into the darkness following the chain links of lives and events. I see various people attached to the chain who are all me.

The blackness makes me feel as if I do not want to see what is happening. It reminds me of a previous dream that was all black, no visuals, just an intense feeling of regret, remorse and horror. (A dream I had close to 20 years ago) I did not want to see it and I did not want to talk about it, because it was so awful. When I awoke from that dream I was in shock. I could not think or focus my thoughts. I felt like I had done something so wrong my heart was a black empty hole.

I know now that I am looking at what I could not face in the previous dream. I am now ready to see the pattern of my past.

In this current dream I am looking back down the black iron chain to other past parts of myself. I am very aware of the links in the chain.

The self nearest me in time is unclear and basically unimportant at this time. He is a man who had died of syphilis. (His importance was made clear after I worked with the dream.)

The next person back in time was a Catholic nun.

The focus of my attention is on next person back in time. She is a richly dressed courtesan woman in a red dress a large veiled hat with a feather. This woman has leprosy. She seems to be the focus of the past life memory. She is deeply conflicted. (I can feel her inner conflict and shame.) She is trying to pretend she does not have leprosy. She does not want to be isolated and shunned. She is dependent on her beauty to survive and does not care if she puts others at risk. She cannot bear to give up her lifestyle---to be alone.

A nun confronts the woman about her self-absorption and tries to stop her evil and wickedness. The nun tells the leper courtesan to separate herself from the people of the community. The courtesan will not stop. The nun's beliefs and sense of duty drive her to kill the courtesan. She buries the leper women in unconsecrated ground.

As I am the leper woman in spirit, I watch as the nun buries my body by a tree. I can see into the graveyard to the place where the good people are buried. I feel isolated and alone. In the spirit I feel compassion for the nun who has killed me. I know she has damaged her soul to protect the people from leprosy. (In spirit I am standing behind the tree as the nun reverently buries my body.)

Again as I look back further down the chain of past lives I see another lifetime hiding in the blackness. When I allow myself to feel it I can see it.

I see the lifetime when we as people had been bioengineered. (Lemuria? Atlantis?) We have the ability to destroy our enemies by looking at them. This technology is supposed to protect us from what we fear so we always feel safe. But the technology has mutated. Anytime we look at anyone else, even in friendship, this self-defense lazar mechanism activates. Our fear has created our own prison. I see myself as burned and mutilated and lost in my isolation. 

As I awaken from the past life dream I feel confused, guilty and ashamed. What do I do with a dream like this? Are these people my past? First I must always face the emotions. The emotions verify the reality of the significant dream.  No life is perfect, but by accepting the truth we are set free.

First, I accept my emotions. I draw on my spirituality and accept what I have seen. God forgives the repentant person. The hard part is to forgive myself. Forgiveness is essential to be free of the past programming. Past lives' feelings and actions are not me now.

Negative self-judgment is not useful. When I allow the strength of the mental mind to take over, I can look at the dream with discernment.

The dream seems to lacks internal logic. How can I be the nun killing the leper woman and be the leper woman at the same time? Is this truly a chain of connected past lives? Answer: I am not the nun killing the leper woman. However, the words of encouragement and faith she said at my death scene set a desire in my soul (soul code) that leads to choosing my next life time as a nun.

The unconscious mind is like a blank slate, or computer waiting for code. The unconscious mind of every person is in contact with the unconscious mind of every other person. Because I am aware of the emotions and drives of the nun who killed the leper (me), my soul was emotionally coded by her conscious thought process. Her words became my thoughts at death.

The negative aspect of cause and effect:  The death scene codes future life programming on the soul, however it may not be evident for several lifetimes. I see the fear of isolation, and an overwhelming need for human contact and connection as initiating in the Atlantis lifetime. I see the coding of unresolved issues and needs: for a loving relationship, for physical connection, personal need fulfillment creating a diseased outcome (bioengineering=leprosy=syphilis).

The positive aspect of cause and effect:  Soul coding created a life-path where: to become a nun is to live in a community, personal need fulfillment focuses on knowledge of good health practices, loving relationships are characterized by acts of service (like the life of the nun), and physical connections are based on respect for the other balanced with personal need.

A horrible past life is not a justification for current bad behavior—it is an opportunity for healing. Typically we do not dream of joyful, enlightened lives because those lives do not need healing. If you dream of a past life that is joyful and enlightened, it is a reminder to live those gifts in the here and now.

George Santayana wrote (in The Life of Reason, 1905) “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

 https://www.nationalchurchillmuseum.org/blog/churchill-quote-history/

Healing Past Life Dreams

The first past life memory I had came in a dream or you could call it a nightmare. I was trapped in a barn fire. I remember seeing beams falling down on me, and flaming hay streaming down from the loft. The next moment I knew myself as a blackened and charred body. I was screaming out in my mind, I’m still in here, I’m still alive.

I was saved from this shocking dream by a friend pounding on my door. I was a graduate student and my friend wanted to go partying—of course I went. To this day I can see the image of the burning barn and charred corpse. It is strange to contemplate but I was put in a state of shock by a past life memory.

Each of us should learn to use our dreams and past life memories for healing (emotional and physical) and for growth (mental, emotional and spiritual). It is possible to work with past life memories on your own—but it is a challenge. Currently, I am studying advanced training as a past life regression therapist. To be free of unconscious memories is liberating.

My mentor, Dr. Morris Netherton, teaches past life therapy is effective for healing present life issues. Past life therapy is very effective for certain cases of anxiety, obsessive/compulsive behavior, post-traumatic stress, fears, phobias, and health issues such as asthma and chronic pain. Netherton tells us past life is anything that is not this very moment. Any time you are unconscious, or fear that you are dying you become vulnerable to negative emotional programming.

The relationship between the physical brain frequency and the function of mind and emotion is central to understanding why past life therapy is so effective. Past life therapy occurs in the Alpha and Theta frequency range. The therapist’s function is as a facilitator as the client consciously tells his remembered story. The point is to be aware and heal the emotional programming of the story.

Charles Skillas (PhD, DD, BCH) tells us understanding brain wave activity (EEG) enhances our understanding of hypnosis and meditation.

• The Beta Range frequency, 14-28 cps, describes conscious functions like problem solving, worry, fear and processing visual information.
• The Alpha range, 7- 14 cps, correlates to prayer, reverie, relaxation, meditation and light hypnosis.
• The Theta frequencies, 4-7 cps, identify with visual reverie, deep hypnosis, anesthesia and perceptual changes.
• Delta frequencies, .5 to 4 cps, are associated with deep sleep and [danger] awareness (ex. alarm clock awakening, sounds outside the window.)

EEG studies demonstrate Alpha and Theta waves as the most powerful, with higher peaks of voltage and longer duration. Dr. Skillas speculates that the information that is being impressed on brain cells in a stronger, more effective manner during Alpha and Theta states. If this is true, it may explain the powerful changes that may be effective under deep hypnosis in a brief time, say Skillas.

Lisa Miller, AUG. 27, 2010, in an online article for the New York Times, tells us according to data by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, a quarter of Americans believe in reincarnation. Women are more likely to believe than men. There are nearly a billion Hindus and a half-billion Buddhists who have for thousands of years believed in reincarnation. (Not to mention the ancient Greeks, certain Jews and some ancient Christians) They have a cyclical view--you are born, you live, you die, and because nobody is perfect your soul is born again — not in another location or sphere, not metaphorical but right here on earth.

Brian L. Weiss M.D. is Chairman Emeritus of Psychiatry at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami started his career as a traditional psychotherapist. He has become a foremost expert in the use of regression therapy for healing, mind, body and spirit. According to his website, Dr. Weiss was “astonished and skeptical when one of his patients began recalling past-life traumas that seemed to hold the key to her recurring nightmares and anxiety attacks.

Dr. Weiss tells us:

• Not all problems have their source in the past.
• Often dreams contain fragments of past life memories. 
• Frequently the material elicited through past life regressions contains metaphors and symbols and can trigger dream experiences.
• Using free association or the active imagination helps free the mind from any negative connotations.
• One can replace the word reincarnation with the word imagine and the process still works.
• It is not always necessary to see a therapist in order to discover one’s past lives
• Meditation on your own can open the unconscious mind
• Or using audiotapes or CDs can help you to have your own experiences. 

There are people who feel victimized by their dreams and nightmares. The true purpose of our dreams is for healing, learning, and enlightenment (through a process of true acceptance and an action of forgiveness).  Each of us should be a master of our dreams and past life memories for healing (emotional and physical) and for growth (mental, emotional and spiritual).

How do you know you are working with a past life dream? The dream will feel historical and if you look for skin color, historical modes of dress (look at your feet), transportation, tools, etc.—you will see them. Sometimes a specific name or date sticks in your memory as you awake. Most important—there will be an intense inner knowing. A past life dream is only one type of dream.

Types of Dreams:

1. Psychological Healing

2. Belief Dreams

3. Problem-Solving Dreams

4. Physiological Dreams

5. Dreams of Daily Life

6. Compensatory Dreams

7. Recurring Dreams

8. Lucid Dreams

9. Psychic Dreams or Prophetic Dreams.

10. Nightmares

If you are drawn to work with the past life it will reveal to you: 1.Your coping skills, hidden strengths and skills; 2. The root of maladaptive behaviors (alcoholism, eating disorders, feelings of financial insecurity); 3. The roots emotional issues (anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress); 4. The programming that leads to poor relationships at home and work.

Over time I have developed techniques for healing past life dreams. There are many books that give insights and techniques. For some people and dreams it is enough to recognize the dream as part of yourself to accept and not judge (forgive). There is no one special strategy. You could try this method:

• Write the dream down---write the dream in first person—“I am___, I did____”
• Tell yourself this is who I was in the past—I am not that person today, I do not have to be that person today
• If you saw something ugly and feel emotionally shocked pray for strength to help you heal---put the dream away until you are ready to work with it.
• Go into a meditative state visualize strongly and re-experience the past life
• One of the most important things to do is heal your death---do not take negative thoughts into the next life. For example, say to yourself  “I leave behind fear of drowning—I take perfect beauty, health and self-respect into my next life.” 

A horrible past life is not a justification for current bad behavior—it is an opportunity for healing. Typically we do not dream of joyful, enlightened lives because those lives do not need healing. If you dream of a past life that is joyful and enlightened, it is a reminder to live those gifts in the here and now.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/29/fashion/29PastLives.html?_r=0

http://www.drskillas.com/A-Hypnosis-and-Brain-Waves.htm

http://www.dreaminterpretation-dictionary.com/types-of-dreams.html

http://www.brianweiss.com

First Aid: Time for a review

I became interested in health and wellness along time ago when I was in Girl Scouts. I decided to study for a badge on First Aid. First aid techniques change over the years and often what we do is really based on bad information, “old wives tales,” so I decided to check out the Red Cross website and see what is up to date information.

I remember my mother always said put butter on a burn 1st degree burn---Do Not Do This. (I read somewhere oils trap the heat in causing the skin to continue to burn--maybe true.) Sorry Mom, the Mayo Clinic tells us:

For minor burns:

• Cool the burn to help soothe the pain. Hold the burned area under cool (not cold) running water for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pain eases. Or apply a clean towel dampened with cool tap water.
• Remove rings or other tight items from the burned area. Try to do this quickly and gently, before the area swells.
• Don't break small blisters (no bigger than your little fingernail). If blisters break, gently clean the area with mild soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a nonstick gauze bandage.
• Apply moisturizer or aloe vera lotion or gel, which may provide relief in some cases.

Major burns:

• Until an emergency unit arrives, take these actions:
• Protect the burned person from further harm.
• But don't remove burned clothing stuck to the skin.
• Check for signs of circulation. Look for breathing, coughing or movement. Begin CPR if needed.
• Remove jewelry, belts and other restrictive items, especially from around burned areas and the neck---burned areas swell rapidly.
• Don't immerse large severe burns in cold water--doing so could cause a serious loss of body heat (hypothermia) or a drop in blood pressure and decreased blood flow (shock).
• Elevate the burned area. Raise the wound above heart level, if possible.
• Cover the area of the burn. Use a cool, moist, bandage or a clean cloth. 

Every home should have a well-stocked first-aid kit.

The Mayo Clinic recommends a basic first-aid kit that includes:

• Adhesive tape
• Elastic wrap bandages
• Bandage strips and "butterfly" bandages in assorted sizes
• Nonstick sterile bandages and roller gauze in assorted sizes
• Eye shield or pad
• Triangular bandage
• Aluminum finger split
• Instant cold packs
• Cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs
• Disposable nonlatex examination gloves, several pairs
• Duct tape
• Petroleum jelly or other lubricant
• Plastic bags, assorted sizes
• Safety pins in assorted sizes
• Scissors and tweezers
• Soap or hand sanitizer
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution and towelettes
• Eyewash solution
• Thermometer
• Turkey baster or other bulb suction device for flushing wounds
• Breathing barrier
• Syringe, medicine cup or spoon
• First-aid manual

The kit should include medications appropriate to your family such as: Aloe vera gel, Calamine lotion, Anti-diarrhea medication, Laxative, Antacids, Antihistamine, Pain relievers, Cough and cold medications, and Auto-injector of epinephrine, if prescribed by your doctor.

An emergency items kit includes: Emergency phone numbers, contact information for your family doctor, Medical consent forms for each family member, Medical history forms for each family member, Small, waterproof flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries, Waterproof matches, Small notepad and waterproof writing instrument, Emergency space blanket, Cell phone with solar charger, Sunscreen, Insect repellant,

Whistle. I would include a hat or scarf. Check your first-aid kits regularly to be sure the flashlight batteries work and to replace supplies that have expired or been used up.

There are many resources for medical information and advice including the Internet, magazines, and television. The Red Cross tells us to seek health and safety recommendations from credible sources and disregard popular myths. Their website lists some of the most common first aid mistakes They recommend enrolling in a first aid class to learn how to respond correctly in an emergency situation.

• Myth: Soothe a burn by applying butter. 
Reality: If you apply butter or an oily substance to a serious burn, you could make it difficult for a doctor to treat the burn later and increase risk of infection. The right approach: Treat a burn with cool water. If a burn is severe and starts to blister, make sure to see a doctor. Keep the affected area clean and loosely covered with a dry, sterile dressing. 

• Myth: If a child swallows a poisonous substance, induce vomiting with syrup of ipecac. Reality: Inducing vomiting is not recommended for certain poisonous substances and may be harmful. 
The right approach: Never give anything to eat or drink unless directed to by the Poison Control Center or a medical professional. If an accidental poisoning occurs, immediately call the Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222) or your doctor for advice.

• Myth (bad advice): The best way to treat a bleeding extremity is by applying a tourniquet. 
Reality: Tourniquets stop the flow of blood, which could cause permanent damage to a limb. They should be used only as a last resort in the case of severe bleeding. The right approach: Pad the wound with layers of sterile gauze or cloth, apply direct pressure and wrap the wound securely. Seek medical help if the bleeding doesn't stop or if the wound is gaping, dirty or caused by an animal bite

• Myth: Apply heat to a sprain, strain or fracture. 
Reality: Heat actually increases swelling and can keep the injury from healing as quickly as it could. 
The right approach: Apply ice to reduce swelling for about 20 minutes. Place a thin barrier between the ice and the bare skin.

• Myth: You should move someone injured in a car accident away from the scene. 
Reality: A person with a spinal-cord injury won't necessarily appear badly injured, but any movement could lead to paralysis or death. 
The right approach: Move an injured victim only if 
The scene becomes unsafe (the vehicle is threatened by fire or another serious hazard) or if you have to reach another victim who may have a more serious injury or illness. 
You need to provide proper care (CPR needs to be performed on a firm, flat surface. 
Otherwise, it's best to stabilize the victim, and leave the person in place until paramedics arrive. 

• Myth: Rub your eye when you get a foreign substance in it. Tears will wash the substance out. 
Reality: Rubbing could cause a serious scratch or abrasion to the eye. 
The right approach: Rinse the eye with tap water. 

• Myth: Use hot water to thaw a cold extremity. Reality: Avoid any extreme temperature change- hot water can cause further damage. 
The right approach: Gradually warm the extremity by soaking it in lukewarm water. 

• Myth: To reduce a fever, sponge rubbing alcohol on the skin. 
Reality: Alcohol can be absorbed by the skin, which can cause alcohol poisoning, especially in young children. 
The right approach: Lower a fever by taking ibuprofen. If a high fever continues for several days, see a physician or go to a hospital emergency room for treatment.  

• Myth: Allergic reactions to bee stings can be treated at home. 
Reality: Delaying professional treatment to a respiratory allergic reaction to a bee sting could be fatal. 
The right approach: For symptoms such as breathing problems, tight throat or swollen tongue, call an ambulance immediately.

• Myth: If you get a cut or scrape, apply first-aid ointment, cover it with a bandage, and leave it untended to heal for a few days. 
Reality: Exposure to fresh air is the quickest way to allow wounds to heal, and thus it is generally best not to apply creams or ointments, since they keep the wound moist. Bandages should also be changed to keep the wound clean. 
The right approach: The first and best thing to do with a wound is wash it with soap and cool water. All dressings should be changed twice a day. At bedtime, the bandage should be replaced with a looser dressing so air can circulate around the wound. Upon waking, a slightly tighter bandage should be applied, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. Bandages should be changed even if it means pulling off a part of a scab that's forming, experts say. Also, try to keep the wounded area dry.

The Mayo clinic tells us for a broken bone or fractured bone, where bone has torn through the skin, this requires emergency medical attention---call for help to come to you. Also call for emergency help if:

• The person is unresponsive, isn't breathing or isn't moving. Begin CPR if there's no breathing or heartbeat.
• There is heavy bleeding.
• Even gentle pressure or movement causes pain.
• The limb or joint appears deformed.
• The bone has pierced the skin.
• The extremity of the injured arm or leg, such as a toe or finger, is numb or bluish at the tip.
• You suspect a bone is broken in the neck, head or back.
• Don't move the person except if necessary to avoid further injury. Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:
• Stop any bleeding. Apply pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage, a clean cloth or a clean piece of clothing.
• Immobilize the injured area. Don't try to realign the bone or push a bone that's sticking out back in. If you've been trained in how to splint and professional help isn't readily available, apply a splint to the area above and below the fracture sites. Padding the splints can help reduce discomfort.
• Apply ice packs to limit swelling and help relieve pain. Don't apply ice directly to the skin. Wrap the ice in a towel, piece of cloth or some other material.

According to the Mayo Clinic, shock may result from trauma, heatstroke, blood loss, an allergic reaction, severe infection, poisoning, severe burns or other causes. A person in shock is not getting enough blood or oxygen to their organs. This can lead to permanent organ damage or even death if left untreated. Signs and symptoms of shock vary depending on circumstances and may include:

• Cool, clammy skin
• Pale or ashen skin
• Rapid pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Enlarged pupils
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Changes in mental status or behavior, such as anxiousness or agitation 

Seek emergency medical care if you suspect a person is in shock. Then immediately take the following steps:

• Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly, unless you think this may cause pain or further injury.
• Keep the person still and don't move him or her unless necessary.
• Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of life, such as breathing, coughing or movement.
• Loosen tight clothing and, if needed, cover the person with a blanket to prevent chilling.
• Don't let the person eat or drink anything.
• If the person vomits or begins bleeding from the mouth, turn him or her onto a side to prevent choking, unless you suspect a spinal injury. 

Now that I have reviewed this basic information, I feel more prepared. I know what I can do and what I should not do. First Aide is HUGE topic. A web search shows there are varieties of online first aide courses. My recommendation would be to contact the Red Cross because first aide is their primary mission.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/search/search-results?q=first%20aide%20basic

http://www.redcross.org/email/safetynet/v1n9/firstaid.asp

http://www.firstaidforfree.com/

Coconut for Cake and Good Health

My childhood memories of coconut are all about baking. My brother’s favorite cake for his birthday was called German Chocolate Cake. Originally, the German’s Chocolate Cake was made of 3 layers of buttermilk cake flavored with melted German's chocolate, and sandwiched with a rich coconut-pecan filling. Typically my mother frosted the cake top with coconut -pecan filling sides with chocolate icing

The Joyofbaking.com website tells us the cake was named after German's Sweet Chocolate, which is a dark baking chocolate created by the Walter Baker & Company. Samuel German an employee developed the chocolate in 1852. The origin of German Chocolate Cake is hard to pinpoint---all we do know is it’s all American. “Richard Sax in Classic Home Desserts says this cake was being made in the 1920's and eventually became popular nationwide after a recipe appeared in a 1957 food column of a Dallas newspaper.”

The scientific name for coconut is Cocos nucifera. Because the hairy nut seems to have eyes and resembles the head and face of a monkey, early Spanish explorers called it coco, or "monkey face". Coconut contains a nutritious white meat, juice, milk, and oil that has been staple food for populations around the world for generations. A third of the world's people depend on coconut for food.

Coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and is classified as a "functional food" since it provides many health benefits. Coconut oil has healing properties and is used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations. Coconut oil is considered curative for all illness by Pacific Islanders. The indigenous people call the coconut palm "The Tree of Life."

For thousands of years coconut has been valued and used in local folk medicine. Traditional medicine around the world has used coconut to treat a wide variety of health problems including abscesses, asthma, baldness, bronchitis, bruises, burns, colds, constipation, cough, dropsy, dysentery, earache, fever, flu, gingivitis, gonorrhea, irregular or painful menstruation, jaundice, kidney stones, lice, malnutrition, nausea, rash, scabies, scurvy, skin infections, sore throat, swelling, syphilis, toothache, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, ulcers, upset stomach, weakness, and wounds. Medical science research is now confirming the use of coconut in treating many of the above conditions.

Medical journals report that various forms of coconut, demonstrate a wide range of health benefits:

Kills viruses

Kills bacteria

Kills fungi and yeasts

Expels or kills tapeworms and other parasites

Provides quick energy and endurance

Enhancing physical and athletic performance

Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients

Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose

Relieves stress on pancreas

Helps protect against osteoporosis.

Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease.

Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, stomach ulcers.

Reduces inflammation.

Supports tissue healing and repair.

Supports and aids immune system function

Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers.

Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease.

Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease.

Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.

Functions as a protective antioxidant.

Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease.

Dissolves kidney stones.

Supports thyroid function.

Promotes loss of excess weight

Applied Topically:

Form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward of infection.

Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.

Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin.

Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking.

Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.

Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion

Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

Helps control dandruff

Pure virgin coconut oil does not need hydrogenation---the process of adding hydrogen to make a liquid fat hard. It is 92% saturated fat. Unlike animal fats, tropical oils -- palm, palm kernel, and coconut oils -- are saturated fats that are called oils.  Depending on room temperature they can be solid, semi-solid, or liquid.

Like all fats, coconut oil is a blend of fatty acids. Coconut oil contains an unusual blend of short and medium chain fatty acids, primarily lauric (44%) and myristic (16.8%) acids. It is this unusual composition of short and medium chain fatty acids that offers some health benefits.

Dr. Mehmet Oz tells us "It has been shown that lauric acid [in coconut] increases the good HDL cholesterol in the blood to help improve cholesterol ratio levels.  Coconut oil lowers cholesterol by promoting its conversion to pregnenolone, a molecule that is a precursor to many of the hormones our bodies need. Coconut can help restore normal thyroid function. When the thyroid does not function optimally, it can contribute to higher levels of bad cholesterol.”

Linoleic acid makes up the polyunsaturated fat content of coconut oil. Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid, which the body is unable to make. Essential fatty acids must come from food in order for the body to function properly. Linoleic acid is an omega 6 fatty acid and is important for healthy brain function, skin and hair growth and bone health.

Andrew Weil, M.D., recommends we eat a balance between omega-3 (oily fish or take fish oil supplements, walnuts, flax seeds, and omega-3 fortified eggs) and omega-6. Both are polyunsaturated fatty acids but differ in their chemical structure. We need essential fatty acids for: Energy Production, Diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream, Hemoglobin production, Vital for the transportation and metabolism of triglycerides and cholesterol, Brain and nerve tissue development, Control cell membrane fluids, etc.

We live in a market driven consume society. We must never forget that the advertising we see on television is there to sell us products, or ideas. Advertising is the corporate tool to create sales it does not educate. Often corporations lobby for laws to protect their profits at the individual’s expense.

Do you remember in the 1980’s when we were told coconut oil was unhealthy? Did you ever wonder why all of a sudden you should not eat coconut oil? The American Soybean Association (ASA) launched a series of attacks that became known as the "Tropical Grease Campaign." They coined a new term, "tropical oils," and used the phrase as a negative label.

We can thank heath advocates such as Dr. Oz and Dr. Weil for reintroducing us to the many benefits of coconut and other healthy oils. If we follow Dr. Andrew Weil’s advice for a balance between omega-3 and omega-6, this is a perfect recipe:

The FOODNETWORK--Canada’s

Caribbean Coconut Crusted Salmon

INGREDIENTS

1 ¼ cup of shredded, unsweetened coconut

4 6 oz salmon filets, skin removed

Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Put coconut into a freezer bag. Drop in the salmon filets one at a time and toss to coat. Place on a lightly oiled baking sheet and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes.

3. Serve with Caribbean Salsa.

If you’re looking for a good German Chocolate Cake coconut-pecan filling recipe, this looks like my mom’s recipe. Here’s the link:

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/german-chocolate-cake-frosting-ii/detail.aspx

Read more at http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/caribbean-coconut-crusted-salmon/6823/#XOwRpXzCqLo8rtSy.99

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400149/balancing-omega-3-and-omega-6.html 

http://www.doctoroz.com/article/surprising-health-benefits-coconut-oil

http://www.livestrong.com/article/363811-the-fatty-acid-composition-of-coconut-oil/

August 2003 issue of Consumers' Research, vol. 86 no. 8.

http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/

http://www.webmd.com/diet/coconut-oil-and-health

http://www.joyofbaking.com/GermanChocolate.html#ixzz3hhxMj8K0

French Maritime Pine Bark: Pycnogenol

It is summer “cold” season. A fever in the winter is bearable but a fever in the summer heat it is hideous. My favorite herb for colds and flu is pine bark.

The active ingredient in French Maritime Pine Bark is pycnogenol. Pycnogenol is any group of flavinoids (chemical molecules) extracted from pine bark. Pycnogenol® has become the registered trademark of supplements made from French maritime pine trees.

A French explorer discovered the benefits of French maritime pine bark extract in the 1500′s. The largest maritime pine trees forest is located in southwestern France near the Bordeaux region. This forest plantation dates back to the times of Napoleon III. The maritime pine tree can be found throughout parts of Spain, Italy, Morocco and Portugal. In the 1950′s Jacques Masquelier began to seriously research beneficial properties of pine bark.

French maritime pine bark (pinus pinaster) comes from trees that grow in the Landes Forest of southwestern France. It should not be confused with White Pine Bark (pinus strobes). White pine is also known as: Eastern White Pine, Northern White Pine, Pumpkin Pine, Soft Pine, Deal Pine, Weymouth Pine, Pin du Lord, and Pinus Alba. The White Pine is an evergreen conifer native to eastern North America and has been cultivated throughout Europe. Medicinal White Pine Bark comes from the inner bark of the White Pine tree, or from young shoots and twigs. The bark is dried, and then used in powdered form, tea, syrups, as a poultice, and in capsules.

I have never used White Pine as an herbal medicine. I am however a true believer in French Maritime Pine Bark, Pycnogenol. It helped me with a terrible case of bronchitis and a sinus infection. 

The makers of Pycnogenol®, French maritime pine bark (pinus pinaster), follow good agricultural practice (GAP) and good manufacturing practice (GMP). This means there is absolutely no application of pesticides to pine trees or use of toxic solvents during the manufacture.

French maritime pine bark (pinus pinaster), Pycnogenol has been researched extensively. It is used for treating circulation problems, allergies, asthma, ringing in the ears, high blood pressure, muscle soreness, pain, osteoarthritis, diabetes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a disease of the female reproductive system called endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, painful menstrual periods, erectile dysfunction (ED), and an eye disease called retinopathy.

Pycnogenol is used to slow the aging process, maintain healthy skin, improve athletic endurance, and improve male fertility. It is also used for preventing disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including stroke, heart disease, and varicose veins. Anti-aging” products contain pycnogenol.

Two capsules are taken 2 hours before the flight and then again 6 hours later. Also, taking pycnogenol 100 mg before a flight, 6 hours after the flight, and the following day appears to reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the veins during long flights, and once the next day reduces swelling and ankle swelling.

The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center website tells us Pycnogenol is derived from the bark of the French maritime pine tree. Studies have displayed effectiveness in treating many inflammatory conditions, skin disorders, and poor blood circulation. Pycnogenol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in treating erectile dysfunction when used in combination with L-arginine. Recent animal studies show pycnogenol exhibits protective effects against cardiac toxicity caused by the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin, however human data is needed.

The Memorial Sloan Kettering website reports the primary constituents of pine bark extracts are procyanidins and phenolic acids. Pine bark extract acts as an antioxidant by increases the activities of antioxidant enzymes and by increasing the intracellular glutathione levels. It inhibits production the proteins that cause inflammation and atherosclerosis.

An in vitro (in the test tube) study suggests that Pycnogenol induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells causing them to die. Other in vitro studies show it reduces neuronal apoptosis (neuron death), an important factor of Alzheimer’s disease.

There are no known interactions with foods.

Scientific research has studied the following dosages by mouth:

For allergies: 50 mg twice daily.

For asthma in children: 1 mg per pound of body weight given in two divided doses.

For poor circulation: 45-360 mg daily, or 50-100 mg three times daily.

For diseases of the retina, including those related to diabetes: 50 mg three times daily.

For mild high blood pressure: 200 mg of pycnogenol daily.

For improving exercise capacity in athletes: 200 mg daily.

Special precautions & warnings:

Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center tells us pycnogenol is effective for treating allergies, however for some people pyncogenol is actually an allergen. Some rare and possibly fatal allergies can develop. Signs of an allergic reaction to including wheezing or shortness of breath, rash, chest pain, and swelling of body parts including the face, hands or feet.

If pregnant or breast-feeding pycnogenol should be used cautiously or avoided as there is not enough available research. It may be safe for children when taken by mouth, short-term. If you have an autoimmune disease it’s best to avoid using pycnogenol. High doses of pycnogenol might increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding conditions. High doses of pycnogenol might decrease blood sugar too much in people who are taking diabetes medication. Stop using pycnogenol at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery as it might increase the chance of bleeding during and after surgery.

Because pycnogenol increases the immune system it might decrease the effectiveness of medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants).

Avoid taking pycnogenol with aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

Avoid taking pycnogenol with herbs and supplements that can lower blood sugar such as alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, devil's claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, psyllium, Siberian ginseng, and others.

Avoid using pycnogenol with herbs that slow blood clotting such as angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, Panax ginseng, and others.

http://www.pycnogenol.com/

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1019.html

www.quantumhealth.com/news/pycnogenol_about.htm

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/_/search/Search.aspx?By=0&SearchBy=0&q=pycnogenol

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/pine-bark-extract