Chamomilla: Natural Remedy for Teething, Colic, Earaches, Cold, and Inconsolable Babies

If you have young children, especially a baby, then you need to stock your first aid kit with the homeopathic remedy Chamomilla (Chamomile).

Let me start out by giving you a short story of how this remedy works:

A couple weeks ago a parent brought in a 5 month old baby. The baby was very fussy, and had been since the previous day. I took out my homeopathic first aid kit and found Chamomilla. I mixed two small white pellets in a small glass of water. At that point the mother was at her wit's end, so I had the baby in my arms. He was still fussy as I gave him a small spoonful of the homeopathic water. To my surprise, within 5 seconds, the baby was fast asleep!

The mother couldn't believe her eyes (and to be honest, neither could I). The mother called me the next day and said that her baby slept all night and woke up happy. She was absolutely thrilled and amazed at the healing power of homeopathy!

Chamomilla (homeopathic Chamomile) is one of my favorite remedies for babies. It is indicated for pain, including teething and colic in babies. When a child is in a 'chamomilla state', they are obviously unhappy and uncomfortable. They are angry, irritable, impatient, and inconsolable. They are crying, screaming, and arching his/her back. They ask for something, but then refuse it. Their head can be sweaty, one cheek red and the other pale, thirsty, and with green diarrhea. Their symptoms improve when they are rocked or carried. Worse at night.

Earaches: sensitive to cold and noise (feels better with warmth); pain that makes the child frantic.

Colds: water, hot, runny nose that is also stuffed; difficulty sleeping.

Fevers: alternates between feeling chilled and overheated.

Cough: dry, tickling cough, hoarseness; worse from 9pm-midnight.

This is one of the best remedies for teething, colic, and earaches--especially when their symptoms match the above 'symptom picture'.


**Homeopathy is such a diverse field of practice. There are thousands of different remedies and sometimes it can be difficult to find the exact remedy. Consult a homeopath or Naturopath skilled in homeopathy. **

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. Her Montreal Natural Fertility site can be found here. 

Blueberry/Raspberry Cobbler (Gluten Free)

In preparation for the holidays, I have decided to try to make different gluten free desserts with no added white sugars. I am always in search of recipes that only use wholesome healthy ingredients.

The following is one of my favorite recipes. It is very tasty and satisfies many palates.

Ingredients you will need:

Filling:

1 Pint of Blueberries (can also use frozen if not in season)
1 Pint Raspberries
1 tblspn Maple Syrup
1 tblspn Cornstarch

Mix all above ingredients together. Grease a 9 inch pan, place the berry mix in the pan and bake for 15 minutes at 400 degree while preparing the topping.

Topping:

1/2 cup Brown Rice Flour
1/2 cup Other Healthy flour (can use whatever flour you prefer here... I really like kamut flour, oat flour and quinoa flour).
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tblspn maple syrup
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 cup rice milk or almond milk or raw cow milk
1/4 cup finely chopped almonds (optional)
2 tablespoons of rolled oats

Mix flours, baking powder, salt, almonds and rolled oats together. Warm butter and coconut oil so they are melted. Pour into mixture and begin mixing together. Add maple syrup and milk.

Drop over berry mixture. Place in oven at 400 degrees for 25 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Update to Free Class Schedule!

Because we have had such success with our free online class series, we have added yet another one in the new year.

January 5, 2011 7pm-8pm

What is Naturopathy: Did you know there are many natural health modalities that you can work with to improve your health? Did you know that many people heal themselves naturally using some of these methods? Do you know what Naturopathy is and how it can benefit your family?

Come learn about the history of Naturopathy and how to incorporate it into your daily life! Also, learn about the difference between Naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine.

You can find our online 'classroom' by going to our website at www.psychehealing.com and clicking on "Online Classroom."

While you are there, you can jump into the chat and ask questions.

See you then!

Healthy Fall/Winter Soup: Jerusalem Artichoke, Potato, & Leek Soup

One of my favorite fall foods is hearty artichoke (Jerusalem), potato and leek soup. This recipe is so warming, especially on a cold fall/winter night!


First I start out by washing all of my vegetables, especially the root vegetables since they usually have lots of dirt!





Here is a list of the ingredients to buy:


3 leeks
10-12 Jerusalem artichokes (you can add more if you grow them and have a lot)
3-5 medium to large potatoes
Sea salt (to your taste, everyone is different)
2 Bay leaves
Pinch of rosemary
3-5 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of organic butter
Sprinkle of oregano and basil
Any other spices to taste
1 medium onion

The best thing about preparing food is making it up as you go! I always smell my spices to determine if they would taste good in the dish. To me, this is the best recipe! Experiment as you make this soup! See what you like!

Cut up your leeks (make sure you wash them well since sand and rocks will get stuck in between the layers), potatoes and Jerusalem artichokes. Add to boiling water. Put all spices in and bring to a boil. Let boil for 5 minutes or so and then turn down to low. Cook this for 3-8 hours before you eat. The longer this soup simmers the better it will taste!

As you are nearing completion, give your soup a taste test! Add more sea salt if you haven't added enough. Also, add any other spice you think might add flavor t your soup. This taste is different for everybody. Now is the time to add the butter. Also, now is the time to add your cut up onion. Let your soup cook just until the onion turns soft.

Finally, ENJOY! You will be impressed by this nourishing and easy to make soup!

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Mark Your Calendar!

Hello everybody! I am pleased to announce that we have started our free online class series.

Our first online class was a success: Outward signs of inward problems. This class outlined the ways in which you can look in the mirror and determine where your weaknesses lie through tongue, face, fingernail, and iris analysis.

Our next free online class will be on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 (whoa, it's 2011 already!!!) from 7:00-8:00pm EST. This class will be on Homeopathy for the home, teaching you how to use remedies for acute ailments--from cold/flu to earaches and colic.

Homeopathy is truly an amazing healing art, and has been one of the only natural medicines that have worked during serious pandemics like the Spanish flu of 1918-1919. Did you know that homeopaths at the time were losing only 0-3% of their patients while physicians were losing up to 50% of their patients?? In this one hour class you will learn how effective homeopathy is during epidemics and pandemics, and what you can do to stay healthy!

You can find our online classroom by clicking here or following this link:


http://www.psychehealing.com/Wellness/freeonlineclasses.html

See you all in January!

Unite Now! YOU can help to end world destruction...

The world is at the edge of economic disaster because it is based on a system of greed and competition, where few benefit and many struggle. 

Wars have raged over religion, land, resources, and money. 

Oil has spilled and polluted our beautiful oceans and rivers.

This is madness and it is NOT the vision that our world is meant to be. 

Here is hope for a better world...

Where YOU, along with others of like-mind, have the power and ability to make a change. 

Unite Now!

Every person is precious. 

www.nutopia.cc

I am so very pleased to announce a project that is so near to my heart. This is a project that Moshe Daniel has been working on for many years. I have joined him in the planning and implementation of this plan to heal and unite the world under a flag of peace. What a beautiful vision it is. Please check out the site and unite with us to end suffering, war, division, hatred, greed, and the destruction of our beautiful and sacred planet.

The Big Fat Lie

The Big Myth: Fats are Bad...

When I was in college, I studied Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. During these four years, it was constantly pounded into my head that fats are bad. I was taught to teach my clients to eat 'fat-free' foods. In my life, I ate fat-free yogurt and fake butter. 

We learned the guidelines of cholesterol, and what a doctor considers to be too high. I was told that if a person's cholesterol level was too high, then they would be at an increased risk of heart disease. Even at that time, I questioned what they were teaching me. I asked many college professors why the incidence of heart disease was increasing every year while the guidelines of cholesterol levels were decreasing.  They could never explain this to me. More than ever doctors were/are putting their patients on cholesterol medications and successfully lowering their cholesterol, and yet the rates of heart attacks and heart disease were/are ever increasing. This didn't make sense to me. As a matter of fact, it still doesn't. 

It wasn't until my Naturopathic training that I began to learn the truth about fat. While studying basic anatomy, we learned that the liver actually produces cholesterol from fats that we consume from the diet. These fats come from eggs, meat, dairy and other fatty sources. 

The body uses this cholesterol for MANY different processes. Cholesterol is needed for cell walls, membranes, the production of hormones, vitamin D, the myelin sheath of the nerves, the bile acids that help to digest fat, and much more. 

CHOLESTEROL IS A NECESSARY BUILDING BLOCK FOR OUR BODY!

What happens if you don't have enough cholesterol? Well... your body cannot produce those very necessary things listed above. This can look like depression, headaches, multiple sclerosis (since cholesterol is what protects our nerves), Parkinson's disease, and many many others. We wouldn't be able to bear children and we wouldn't be able to concentrate or focus. Since cholesterol also protects our body from toxins like heavy metals (mercury, aluminum, etc), these metals would wreck havoc in our body (sometimes causing some of the above mentioned diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, etc).

This is a very serious thing folks. Good fats are so important to incorporate into our lives so we can live with abundant health. Some of the healthiest cultures consumed animal fat, high fat raw dairy products, and real butter. Everyone should be eating good fats, especially pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding their baby (who especially need fat to build their brain and nerves). 

So, you might ask, what is the truth behind cholesterol's link to heart disease?

They do find cholesterol build-up in artery walls. Yes. However, in order for cholesterol to build-up, your arteries must be damaged. Cholesterol is simply going there to do the patch up work (which might go way out of hand if you are eating a horrible diet). 

Your arteries become damaged by many different toxins in the environment. One of the biggest is cigarette smoke and environmental pollutants. Another cause of damaged arteries is CHLORINE. If you live in a city, you are getting this from your drinking water. Our bodies also absorb this from swimming pools. A third cause is stress/anxiety/emotions. 

A healthy lifestyle is very important to maintain the health of your body. This includes incorporating good fats into the diet like real butter, coconut oil, fish oils and others.When shopping, looking for organic butter where the cows have been grass fed (or even better if you know a local farm that sells it). Buy organic cold-pressed coconut oil and use it for cooking and salad dressings. Eat a healthy diet that has plenty of fruits and vegetables, and exercise! Finally, minimize the stress in your life. I don't think I can stress this enough... stress=illness!

Feed your brain, feed your nerves, and feed your body.

   And, more importantly, throw out the big fat lie that fats are bad!  

**If you are concerned about your cholesterol, please seek the help of a qualified Naturopath or practitioner.**

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Soothe Your Skin, Nourish Your Soul!

One of my favorite hobbies consists of making all-natural herbal salves, since it is so difficult to find safe and pure lotions and substances. I have explored the isles at Whole Foods and other health food stores, and very few times have been impressed with what I found.

Over the last couple of years I have been experimenting with the best recipe for an all-natural lotion. I have used organic Almond oil, Jojoba oil, Olive oil, Grapeseed oil, and many others. I love the feel of each of these in their own ways, however, I was still searching for the BEST oil for my skin.

I finally found that oil . . . organic cold-pressed virgin COCONUT OIL! This tropical oil slides on the skin so easily and soaks in quickly, with no oily residue. I even explored further, adding beeswax and different essential oils, but still found that I like 'untouched' coconut oil (although I made some pretty magical blends!).

I have also found that coconut oil contains many healing properties. This amazing oil not only nourishes the skin, but it actually takes part in the healing processes of the skin as well. Coconut oil has proven to be effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and other skin infections. It also decreases wrinkles and prevents premature aging... who wouldn't want that, right?!

Coconut oil is so versatile and can be used for a variety of things. Many people use coconut oil for cooking, since it is the most stable at high temperatures. Others use it to nourish and heal their hair. Furthermore, people add it to their salads, desserts, and anything else that requires oil. Be creative!

I use Coconut oil everyday and benefit with well nourished and healthy skin! If you love a tropical smell, you will adore the coconut smell, while getting a pure and all-natural product too.

So, start soothing your skin and nourishing your soul with Coconut oil!

*When purchasing coconut oil, you want to find organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil. This has proven to be the best for eating, using on the skin, and cooking too.

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

The Truth About Our Emotions

The mind is chief.

All things are mind made.

You are what you think,

having become what you thought.

-THE BUDDHA- 

It seems like every where I turn lately I meet someone who is chronically ill. They tell me about how they've tried 'this remedy' or 'that remedy' and 'nothing seems to help.' Being a Holistic Health Practitioner, I see change in the lives of people all around me, however, can still see out of the corner of my eye the world that has become so sick.

So why all the illness? Is it because of our fast food nation? Is it because we don't get enough exercise? Is it because we work in stressful situations? Is it because of the pollution that we see?

If I try to wrap my mind around all of these things, I realize how difficult it is to truly find the root cause of an illness. An illness can be caused from any of those things, especially since we have adopted such unhealthy lifestyles.

My experience has shown me that you don't get sick just because. My experience tells me that you are sick because there is something in your life that isn't working for you anymore. Yes, this could be on a physical level, where the food that you are eating is no longer working for you. However, and more importantly (and on a much deeper level) you could be sick because you are in a life situation that is no longer working for you.

Let me give you an example now.

Bob goes to work every day, and has for the last 35 years. He hasn't liked his job since day one, but felt like he had to do it to support his family. Every day he wakes up and feels a tremendous dread to get out of bed and go to work. On the days he doesn't have to work he jumps out of bed full of energy. He continues this pattern for many years. One day he realizes how worn down and tired he feels, so he goes to the doctor to get a diagnosis. His Physician diagnoses him with "Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" and sends him on his way. Bob never connects that his "disease" is caused from his feeling of dread toward his job. For the next few years he continues at his job, but feels worse and worse...nothing helping him. He takes remedies and medications. Bob feels a little better, but still experiences the exhaustion that he previously felt.

Finally, Bob sees a Practitioner who helps him find the root cause of this Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. They determine this to be an emotional root. Bob ponders a life changing decision, and finally decides to quit his job. After a week of rest, Bob is back to his normal state of health.

Did you know that healing could be so quick? I am incredibly amazed to see the healing that I am honored to see!

Your emotional state is so important. Why not live a life that is happy and healthy? Why not work somewhere that you love? Why not be in a relationship that nourishes and supports you in every way?

One of my favorite quotes says that "Life is too short to be anything but happy."-Author Unknown. 

So, the truth about our emotions is that they rule and govern our entire lives. You deserve nothing other than to be happy. Take the power of healing back into your own hands! 



*Disclaimer: I am not a Doctor and do not diagnose or prescribe. Some people are in very advanced states of illness and might need more than 1 week to heal (this is simply an example that I like to use). Healing takes time and patience. Some people take a whole lifetime to develop a dis-ease, so those very people should be patient and willing to allow time for their bodies to heal and come back into balance. You should seek a qualified Practitioner when embarking on this journey. 

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Bee Pollen: Nature's Superfood!

In my studies I have been totally impressed with the lives of bees. I love eating raw honey because of all the wonderful benefits that it provides. Another Superfood that I discovered in the last year comes from bees too... BEE POLLEN!

We constantly hear the term "Busy as a Bee." This term is 'oh so true' for the life of a bee. Bees work double duty all the time: collecting pollen from flowers to feed its hive while also pollinating more than 80% of all plants and flowers.

Bee pollen is the male reproductive part of a flower that the worker bees collect. These bees pack the microscopically fine powder into granules by adding some nectar or honey from their honey sacs. They then take this back to the hive where they then add a special enzyme to prevent germination. It is used as the food for the young bee, and provides every nutrient needed for proper growth and development. Without this bee pollen a hive of bees would die.

Bee pollen contains nearly every nutrient required by humans, making it one of "nature's complete foods." The free amino acids found in bee pollen (as well as many other nutrients) are so readily used by the body that this food is phenomenal for people with protein deficiencies.

In the past, scientists have realized the amazing nutrient content of this food. They replicated Bee Pollen in a lab--every nutrient, amino acid, and fat molecule. Essentially, they thought they created the perfect supplement, however, when they fed this to a hive of bees, the bees all died! This just shows that we cannot artificially replicate this food, and that, in fact the bee adds a "magic element." To this day, the mystery remains unknown--there are still elements present in bee pollen that science cannot identify.

For many centuries, Bee Pollen has been considered to be a superfood amongst different cultures. Chinese medicine has regarded pollen to be a nutritive and energy tonic. Other cultures have used it for a surprising number of applications, including: increased endurance and vitality, aiding recovery from many chronic illnesses, cleansing and building the blood, extending longevity, preventing cold and flu, decreasing allergies, and so much more.

I have been taking Bee Pollen now for a few months, but haven't really stopped to marvel at the incredible nature of how it is "made", as well as the long list of benefits that it provides. Every day I grow to appreciate this beautiful nature food much more than the previous.

Take this into consideration:
A bee that works 8 hours per day, for one month, will gather only 1 teaspoon of bee pollen. One pellet of Bee Pollen contains over 2 million flower pollen grains, while 1 teaspoon contains more than 2.5 billion flower pollen grains. WOW!

I suggest that you add this to your diet EVERYDAY. Start small. Take 1/2 teaspoon per day for a couple of days, then boost up to 1 teaspoon. If possible, buy local. Bee pollen that is local will help with seasonal allergies, and can be guaranteed fresh and pure. The results are endless with this superfood. In my own practice I have seen Bee pollen help with muscle atrophy, unnecessary weight loss, allergies, digestive disturbances and much more.




**Be very careful if you have severe allergies. In rare occasions, bee pollen can cause a severe allergic reaction. Consult your natural health practitioner if in question.**

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Health Benefits of Jerusalem Artichoke

Today I found myself outside in 40 degree weather pulling Jerusalem Artichoke tubers out of the ground. As I was in the midst of pulling, small raindrops started coming down, making it almost hard to bear! At that point, I had to remind myself why I was pulling these in the first place.

This amazing plant is one of the oldest medicinal plants used as a natural remedy, dating back to fourth century B.C., and was used to treat liver disorders and jaundice. Jerusalem Artichoke actually comes from the Sunflower family and has many nicknames, including Sunroot, Earth Apple, and Sunchoke. It grows up to ten feet tall and appears very similar to a sunflower stalk. When you pull these in the fall, you will see the roots and tubers as white, red or purple. They resemble a potato, and are extremely tasty! 

Jerusalem Artichoke can be cut up and eaten raw on salads, can be steamed or boiled, or added to soups or stews. These tasty tubers contain many different vitamins and minerals, including:
Vitamin A, B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Selenium, and many more! The leaf provides many more nutrients and added benefits as well, and is even said to be more medicinal and potent than the tubers. As you can see, both are packed with nutrients and provide a great food for the entrance into the winter season.





There are also many different benefits that this food brings, including:

• Regulates energy usage
• Supports healthy heart function
• Supports and nourishes the muscular system
• Supports nervous system
• Reduces fatigue
• Lowers chances of infections
• Supports healthy hair and nails 
• Decreases the risk of depression
• Improves digestion
• Helps with liver function (extremely good for the liver)
• Significantly lowers LDL (AKA bad) cholesterol

Jerusalem Artichoke offers a great list of benefits, and is especially good for the liver and cardiovascular system (especially the tincture of the leaf).

I love to eat any root vegetable during the early winter months, and all throughout the winter too. They are not only beneficial foods, but they also provide warmth for these very cold months to come!

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Natural Treatments for Plantar Warts

For the last few years I have struggled to find a natural treatment for plantar warts (warts on the feet). It seems like I tried everything, from Oregano essential oil to duct tape to potato peelings. NOTHING WORKED!

Now, if you know me, and you know my background, then you know that I do not like to use any chemicals or toxic substances, pharmaceuticals included. It seemed like I was at the end of my threshold with these warts. They were growing in number and increasing in size.... and boy did they ever hurt!

The highlighted portion below is my original post on using Apple Cider vinegar for plantar warts. Since I wrote this article, I have learned some very key facts on plantar warts. If suppressed, they will come back with a vengeance. Just like acid from a pharmacy, apple cider vinegar suppresses the warts. For some people the warts fall off, only to come back a few years later.  If you truly want to get rid of your plantar warts - DO NOT use acid, apple cider vinegar or anything else that you apply topically. I strongly strongly advise against this. After you read below, you will see my story with the use of apple cider vinegar. After I stopped using it (and boy was it painful), the warts grew even bigger (instead of falling off like they do for some people). I also learned that we do not want to suppress these things - because they are an external manifestation of what is happening on the inside. If you have a lot of plantar warts, then you have the virus inside of you. The apple cider vinegar will not kill the virus internally - it will only remove the external plantar warts - which will come back later if not treated appropriately.

I have found the best medicine to be Homeopathy for plantar warts. It's very important to see a Classical Homeopath who will find your constitutional remedy - this remedy will knock off the warts (without all the pain of the other "natural" treatments), as well as kill the virus internally so the plantar warts will not come back.

I was reaching the point of going to the pharmacy and getting a wart remover, even knowing how toxic these really are, until I found a very simple home remedy that was reported to have great results. Some of the comments in the forum were similar to mine... they tried everything (including medication), but nothing seemed to work...until finding Apple Cider Vinegar!

I was immediately excited to hear the results of using this simple home remedy. I am always pleased to find simple solutions that are very inexpensive compared to conventional medical treatment.

Since I use Apple Cider Vinegar to make tinctures, I had some in the cupboard and began using it that night. In order to get the apple cider on my toes (which is where the majority of my plantar warts are), I dipped a cotton ball into the apple cider vinegar and secured it with first-aid tape. I left this tape on throughout the night.

On the forum that I read, I learned of a lot of people who said it is very painful. After this first night, I would have to agree.... VERY PAINFUL! From my understanding most wart treatments hurt, and maybe even hurt worse than this natural treatment. The pain wasn't unbearable--it was worse in the morning right after I took off the bandages, and lessened throughout the day. I also took some pictures of my toes after the first day.  I wasn't sure if I wanted to share those pictures on here because it looked so terribly gross, however, for the purpose of science (hehe), I will post them below.

Warning: If you do not like gross images, please skip the image below and scroll down to the text.

After the first night, all of my plantar warts expanded to about 50 times their normal size. These warts were hardly detectable on my toes before the apple cider vinegar treatment. As you can see here, they are large and completely disgusting. I feel brave for sharing! After removing the bandages, the warts shrunk back to their normal size, and again, were hardly detectable.

I continued to do this treatment every night for four nights. By this time, all of these plantar warts had turned black and became much harder. This 'blackening' indicates that the roots of these plantar warts were dying. Many times, the roots are very deep, and very difficult to kill as well. By this time I wanted to give my toes a rest, since the apple cider vinegar is very acidic. I allowed these roots to fall out, and then continued to do the treatment. Each person is different for the amount of time they need to apply this natural treatment. I am still working on mine now, after a month. I have noticed a considerable decrease in size (and some are even gone already). Other people report that after a week their warts disappeared and never reappeared again. Apple Cider Vinegar can be used on any wart on the hands and feet.

I must say something else here now. Since I know much more about Natural Health and Alternative Medicine, I must point out the significance of these warts. All of the plantar warts that I had developed over time are on both the medial and lateral (inside and outside) portion of my big toe. In Chinese medicine, these are the Spleen and Liver meridians. So, this indicates that I have some sort of dis-harmony in those meridians and those organs.  Secondly, plantar warts are a type of Human Papillomavirus, which most people think is a sexually transmitted disease, however, can be picked up from floors, showers, shoes, swimming pools, the air...basically anywhere (so, afterall, not all strands of HPV are sexually transmitted).

Since I have plantar warts (caused by a virus) along these meridians, this might signify that I have to kill viruses in my system, especially in my liver and spleen. Knowing this, I have incorporated an herbal program that will target these viruses and kill them.

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Are you suffering from Mercury and/or Heavy Metal Poisoning?

Today was my final dentist appointment to remove the silver amalgam fillings from my teeth. For those of you who know what these fillings contain, I am certain that you can sense my excitement to have these gone!

For those of you who do not know what these silver fillings are, I will explain now.

Throughout my childhood I had a "good" dentist. A dentist who filled my teeth every time he found the smallest cavity (even a tooth that looked like it could develop a cavity in the future). When I was 19, I had 11 fillings, all dark silver amalgam fillings. Since I switched dentists, I have not had one cavity, and certainly no silver fillings. So, was my dentist as "good" of a dentist as my parents may have thought?

The silver fillings that they put in your teeth, and the teeth of your children, is also known as amalgam. These amalgam fillings contain different metals, including extremely toxic Mercury.  Dentists try to tell you that these metals trap mercury completely and that none is allowed to escape from the filling, however, this has been proven to be incorrect numerous times. If you want to see for yourself go to the following link: smoking tooth video.  This video shows a tooth with an amalgam filling that is around 25 years old, that is still releasing mercury fumes. He also shows that fumes increase each time the tooth is tampered with (ie, chewing, drinking coffee, etc.). So, if these fillings are in your mouth then mercury is surely poisoning you very slowly (or quickly with some people).

Mercury / Amalgam Filling

I was surprised to hear about a story of a woman who had a mouth full of amalgam fillings. This woman was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last year. In the conventional world, this "disease" is said to be incurable. During her quest for healing, she found information on the link between mercury and multiple sclerosis. She went to a holistic dentist and had all of her amalgam fillings removed...and guess what!?!??!

She no longer has multiple sclerosis! This woman was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She should have been "diagnosed" with heavy metal poisoning instead.

Mercury destroys the myelin sheath on the nerves and contributes to a whole host of problems. Some other symptoms of heavy metal/mercury poisoning are:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Nervous shaking
• Poor Memory
• Autism 
• Headaches
• Fibromyalgia
• Headaches
• Skin rashes
• Muscle weakness
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Parkinson's Disease
• Irritability
• Suicidal Tendencies (did you know that dentists have the highest suicide rate? interesting, huh?)
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Autoimmune Disorders
• AND MANY, MANY MORE!

If you have silver amalgam fillings, I suggest getting them removed as soon as possible.  You must find a holistic dentist that properly removes amalgam/mercury fillings. Before you make your appointment, you should make sure that your dentist offers a special ventilation system, a special shield for the mouth, oxygen masks, and more. If you need assistance in finding a holistic dentist, please contact me and I will give you information for your area.

You should also bring some important things with you to these appointments. If you are nervous or anxious about this removal you could immediately take Rescue Remedy (which is a Bach Flower Essence). You should also bring Bentonite Clay. You should swish with this immediately following your appointment, as well as swallowing 1/4 cup. Bentonite Clay will attach to Mercury and pull it out of the body safely.

After you have all of your amalgam fillings removed (and this also includes root canals, caps, and others...most will have mercury in them) you should start a heavy metal cleanse. It is very important to get Mercury out of your body in a safe and healthy manner. You will immediately experience healthy results. I have noticed that my trembling hands are no longer shaking (I noticed this a year ago at my last appointment). I have also noticed that my memory has improved significantly. These are very good changes, and I am excited to see what happens after my heavy metal/mercury cleanse!

If you think that you are experiencing mercury toxicity, contact Sacred Healing Traditions for more information.

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

Natural Treatment for Pink Eye (Conjuctivitis)

A couple of days ago I woke up with a pink and itchy eye.

I have only had pink eye one time in my life, and I was shocked to find that I had it again! I live a very active and healthy lifestyle and haven't been in contact with anyone who was infected. Usually when people have pink eye, they run to their doctor and ask for antibiotics. I, on the other hand, was excited to test my knowledge of natural cures!

Through my family line, I learned of a folk remedy that is reportedly good for pink eye... a tomato.

So, I decided to try it. I sliced a juicy tomato and let it rest on my eye for about 10 minutes. It didn't feel irritating to my eye, but instead, felt very cooling and helpful.

The next day my pink eye was still there, but this time with a little bit of puss too. I wasn't too sure if the tomato actually helped or not, but it sure felt good when I did it. On this day, I decided to try out another natural remedy for pink eye.

Colloidal silver has been found to be very successful for the treatment of pink eye (especially if it is a bacterial infection). Colloidal silver is a good supplement to take around the "flu season" as it helps to rid your body of those "bugs" that make you sick!

I dropped some colloidal silver (which is actually a liquid solution...it looks just like water) into the top of a cap and then dropped it into my eye. I thought this might burn a little bit, but it just felt like water drops. This liquid felt soothing to my irritated and itchy eye. I also avoided contact with my infected eye, although it was itchy and irritated.

The next day my pink eye was mostly gone, and the day after it had completely disappeared. This was a very successful case of a natural treatment for pink eye.

Antibiotics are way overused in our society. Why not try a very cost effective, natural remedy that works just as well, or better, than antibiotics!

To your health!

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. Her Montreal Natural Fertility site can be found here. 

Are Microwaves Destroying Your Health?

While I was walking in a bookstore the other day, I noticed a cookbook for microwave cooking. I began laughing as I pictured a young couple preparing a five-course meal in the microwave. The reality then set in... do these people really know what they are doing to their health by cooking in a microwave oven?

In 1991, there was a lawsuit in Oklahoma. A woman who was having a hip replacement was killed by a simple blood transfusion because the nurse warmed the blood in a microwave oven. Oftentimes in these procedures they warm the blood before a transfusion, but obviously not in a microwave. Most of us think a microwave only warms food, but this shows that it is doing something completely different to our food.

When I was growing up, I remember my mom telling me not to stand too close to the microwave, because it would "hurt" me.  I have also observed many different people saying the same thing.  Logically, if we can't stand too close to the microwave because it is bad for our health, then why would we eat the food that was directly inside of the microwave?

Surprisingly, there is little research on this topic, however, I was able to dig some up. Two different researchers, Blanc and Hertel researched the effects of microwave food.  They found that food is significantly changed after it is warmed in a microwave oven. They also measured blood samples directly after eating and found that haemoglobin levels decreased (resulting in anemia)... and this was only an 8 day sample! What are the long term effects? Is this a cause of the ever-increasing prevalence of anemia? Researchers reported that the results became even more pronounced during the second month of the study.

Microwaves cause a violent change in food and causes its molecules to form new life forms called radiolytic compounds. These mutations are unknown in the natural world and wreck havoc within the body, causing deterioration in the blood and immune system.

More research has been conducted in Russia from 1957 until now, showing that when ingesting food from a microwave, more cancerous cells are found in the blood, a higher incidence of stomach and digestive cancers are found, food is extremely altered and destroyed, and many, many more.

Because of this research, microwaves were banned in Russian in 1976. There is also advice out there to NOT heat a baby bottle in the microwave, since the microwave will destroy some very essential nutrients for the child. If nothing else speaks to you, then hopefully this does!

I know how my body feels after it eats microwave food....NOT GOOD! I have avoided microwaves for about three years now, cooking in toaster ovens or regular ovens. One month ago I ate at a restaurant and right after eating I felt like my throat and stomach had been burned (although my food was not hot). I was a bit confused as to why I would feel this way until the waitress came over and said she had burned her hand on the plate that came out of the microwave!

OOOOHHHH BOOOOYYYYY WAS I UPSET!!!!! Most people don't know the effects of microwaves, but folks, this is NOT acceptable to me! Since when do we not have enough time to cook a meal in the oven and sit down to enjoy it with our family?

Under NO circumstance would I suggest heating ANYTHING in the microwave (including water). Take a little bit of extra time to warm your food the old fashioned way... in an oven.  If you do not have access to an oven, eat your food cold.  Some people think that skipping a meal is "bad for you", but I say, if the only options are to microwave food or not eat, I would say DON'T EAT!

So, are microwaves destroying your health? Some symptoms could be:

Headaches
Sore Throats
Hypo/hyper-thyroidism
Cancerous growths (especially in the esophagus, stomach and/or digestive system)
Acid reflux
Ulcers
Any many more...

To counter the effects of microwave food, make sure that you are eating plenty of raw fruits and vegetables! STOP MICROWAVING YOUR FOOD.... IMMEDIATELY! Better yet, get rid of yours entirely!

Till next  time,

Sacred Healing Traditions---Signing out! :)

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. Her Montreal Natural Fertility website can be found here. 

The Truth About the Flu Shot

Now is the time of year where we see "Flu Shots Here" all over the place. It is the time of changing seasons, and also the time of "catching" the flu. Many people live in fear of the flu and get a shot to protect against the virus, but are they doing anything else to protect themselves?

Since this is my blog, I am going to express myself openly and freely about vaccines, specifically the flu vaccine. If you know me, then you know that I am against all vaccines.  I believe in your body's innate ability to fight these diseases and also to be protected against them (as well as the healing power of nature medicine).

First, in my experience with this specific vaccine, I have noticed that although people get the vaccine, they still get the flu. Doesn't this seem ironic? They get a vaccine to protect against the virus and then get the virus anyway. We also see this with many other vaccines, including the chickenpox vaccine. The vaccine companies never claim to protect against all strains of flu virus.  In fact, they state that their vaccine doesn't protect against all strains of the virus, but instead only a select few they think might be popular that year.

In 2009, we experienced the H1N1 flu "outbreak" hype. In Michigan (and I'm sure other states too), many schools were closed because so many children were infected with a flu virus. Many people were weary of getting the vaccine since it was such a "new" thing and they didn't know what it would do for their health (the vaccine). Many other people lined up in herds to get the vaccine. I, on the other hand, did not get the vaccine. Local health departments experienced shortages and some people were even turned away.  I'm sure you all remember this experience.  So what happened with the H1N1 hype?

Well... nothing, really. Some people died, yes.  But, less people died from this flu than the regular seasonal flu.  I also saw a tremendous amount of people that were affected or injured by the flu vaccine. People developed neurological disorders over night and some pregnant women lost their babies. To me, the injury from the flu vaccine was worse than the actual flu.  And, drug companies made WAY more vaccine than what was actually used, so they had to deal with the excess vaccine. Guess what folks.... THEY ARE PUTTING THESE EXCESS H1N1 VACCINES IN THE SEASONAL FLU VACCINE.

Also, vaccines are very toxic substances.  There are many different ingredients, including egg proteins, polysorbate 80 (carcinogenic), formaldehyde, Triton X100 ( a strong detergent ), sucrose, gentamycin (an antibiotic), and thimerosol.

Thimerosol is the ingredient that contains high amounts of mercury. If you know anything about health, then you know that mercury is toxic to your system... this is one reason why they no longer have mercury thermometers, or other products with mercury. The mercury in one vaccine is enough to shut down a 10 acre lake (if found in the water). This mercury is also a huge culprit in the cause of autism, and other neurological disorders that children are developing.

Essentially, autism was unheard of 20 years ago, even 10 years ago.  When I was in school, I didn't know one student who had autism.  If you go into a public school now, many children have autism and the numbers are growing. The beautiful thing about the human body is that it can regenerate. Most doctors tell you that autism is not reversible, however, I know that it is. If you are a parent of a child with autism, remember, there is hope. I see many parents who think there is no hope, but by fixing the diet and doing simple cleanses, their children begin to speak, begin to interact, and begin to heal.

The flu is a virus that is contagious.  We all know that.  But, why do some people get the flu and others do not? If your immune system is strong enough, it will fight the flu virus right away. You might have the virus on you or inside of you, but the body will destroy it immediately.  If your immune system is worn down, the virus might have more time to incubate in your body and replicate.  After a few days the body will recruit its helpers to get rid of the foreign pathogen.  It is at this time that you will begin to feel sick...when the body is in full attack mode. This is a common misunderstanding about the flu, most people think it is the virus that is causing you to feel so bad, but, it is the body's immune system attacking the virus and killing it. 

This process requires a strong immune system, and unless you are eating healthy, exercising, and stress-free, then you probably have a weakened immune system.  The immune system can become weakened from many different things, including: stress, environmental toxins, heavy metals (like mercury in the flu vaccine), prescription medications, poor mental attitude, fear, unhealthy food, and many more.

There are natural things that you can do to prevent the flu!

 First and foremost, do not live in a state of fear.  Do not fear the flu! Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet (raw and local preferably) and exercise daily. Echinacea is a big immune system herb and will help to protect you in this season of the flu. Astragalus is also great for an immune boost, as well as wheatgrass juice.  If you do start feeling ill, you can take goldenseal to help your body get rid of the virus immediately. If you are in the midst of the flu virus, you can turn to homeopathy for quick relief.  Homeopathy is another topic for another time, but is available.  It was the only treatment that provided relief during the time of the 1918-1919 Spanish flu (many homeopaths did not lose any of their patients during this very deadly flu!).

And, always remember, if you take care of your body, it will take care of you!

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Svea is a traditional Naturopath, classical homeopath and holistic doula. Her private doula practice can be found here. 

The Joys of Juicing

In our busy society and culture, we find ourselves on the go most of the time.  When we are thirsty we stop at convenience stores and buy soda, or pasteurized juice with sugar added.  The healthiest beverage you could buy from a convenience store would be pasteurized 100% juice... and this isn't even that healthy for you.

The pasteurization process uses heat to destroy the bacteria in different substances, like juice or milk. In this process, many vital nutrients are destroyed, as well as beneficial enzymes. When we eat a raw apple, we receive enzymes from the apple to help us digest that specific fruit.  The same goes for any raw fruit or vegetable out there...they all contain these very beneficial enzymes.

If you look at the ingredient label on juice, you might find that they add "ascorbic acid", and that the juice contains 100% Vitamin C. To me this is a false concept... the natural vitamin C that the juice originally contained was killed in the pasteurization process, so the company adds "ascorbic acid" which is vitamin C--making it seem like the product is a whole product.

In knowing this, why wouldn't you want a product that is whole and healthy? A product that contains many vital nutrients... a product that contributes toward your health? Juicing your own fruits and vegetables provides all of these things for you... enzymes, vitamins, minerals, increased energy and endurance throughout the day, and MUCH MORE!

The first step in making your own fresh juices is to purchase a juicer. My preference is for the Champion Juicer (and no, I'm not a salesman for the Champion Juicer). This juicer runs around $300, but is well worth it if you are planning on juicing every day or every other day. If this does not fit into your budget, you could purchase a smaller, less efficient juicer from a superstore like Meijer or Walmart. Next, you need to purchase your favorite fruits and vegetables (which should preferably be ripe, organic, and locally grown).

Juicing is simple and there are MANY different recipes.  One of the simplest and best tasting juices contain:

1 apple
3 carrots
1/2 red beet
1 stick of celery
1/4 cup water

Raw juices are very easy to digest by the body, and the amount of nutrients absorbed is much greater than solid food. There are many benefits, which include:

• Anti-Aging Benefits
• Cellular Cleansing
• Increased Immunity (less sickness throughout the year)
• High antioxidant content
• Increased energy
• Healthier skin
• Whole-body regeneration
• Helps with constipation
• 
  ...and MANY, MANY MORE!

Juicing is something that you can add to your daily life.  You should juice every morning if possible, as it will prepare your body for food intake.  It is also easily digested in the morning... much easier than a big breakfast of solid food. Raw juices contain many natural medicines that will help with many different conditions, especially if you focus on choosing the proper fruits and vegetables for your condition.

More tips on juicing:

-Make sure you drink the juice right away.  Some vitamins and minerals are destroyed with heat and light, and the longer you let it sit out, the more you will lose. Try to drink your juice within 15 minutes of making it!
-Clean your juicer right away.  When the fruit/vegetable pulp dries on the juicer it is very difficult to clean.  Do this immediately! Also, this pulp is great to put into your compost bin!
-Add bee pollen if you would like.  Bee pollen is "nature's perfect food" and contains everything to sustain your life.  It is one of the only foods that contain everything that you need to survive. This substance can be found at most health food stores and online.  Make sure that you can find "local" bee pollen... this will be the most beneficial for you! Check back later for an entire article on bee pollen (it is one of my favorite!).
-Buy a variety of fruits and vegetables so you can try different recipes! Always try to add at least one vegetable, if not the majority.  Carrots make a great juice that tastes sweet too!
-Add raw honey.  This will not only make your juice sweet, but it will also provide you will many more vitamins and minerals! This might even help your allergies!

I encourage you all to add fresh, raw juice to your daily diet! You will see MANY benefits when you begin to do this.  Children also love raw juices (although you should water their juices down a bit more than yours).

To your health!

Sprouting 101

Sprouting For Life

Sprouts are one of the most balanced, living and raw foods out there.  One of my favorite things to do in the kitchen is to "make" sprouts, and better yet, to eat them when they are ready! The nutritional profile of sprouts is very long as they contain many nutrients. In our home, we put sprouts on salads, in stir-fry, in curry dishes, or we just eat them by themselves.

What you will need to Sprout

 Any kind of seed (I prefer a detox mix from the health food store, or a broccoli seed). Most health food stores will carry seeds in bulk.

A glass jar.

A lid for the glass jar that has holes poked into it (or a small square screen that can be banded shut--see picture below). Seeds must beable to breathe!

Directions:

Day 1: Soak seeds in high quality water for 24 hours. 

Day 2: Pour water out of vessel, set container upside down in a dish strainer (see image below). In evening, rinse seeds thoroughly and then set in dish strainer again in upside-down/tilted position.  Make sure to let all water strain out.

Day 3: Rinse seeds in morning, let strain in upside down position for the day.  Repeat this again in the evening. 

Continue to follow this pattern until your seeds begin to sprout.  This should happen within three days.

After four to five days, your sprouts should be ready to eat.  If you want them to grow a bit more, then continue to rinse them for a couple more days. 

ENJOY! Eat your sprouts daily, and be sure to make more before you run out! 

You will not only find yourself having more energy throughout the day from sprouts, but you will also see your health improve throughout time. Vital foods from nature, like sprouts, should be incorporated into your daily lifestyle.

The Amazing Science of Iridology

In my opinion, Iridology is one of the Sacred Healing Traditions.

Have you ever noticed that everyone's eyes are different? There are many different colors, different markings, and even different shapes. Some people have beautiful blue eyes, while others have a deep brown.

In naturopathic medicine, we use many different non-invasive assessment tools.  We make sure that these assessment tools are pain free, and that they use the body's innate ability to show signs of weakness.  Iridology is the study of the iris (or colored part) of the eye to determine tissue weakness within the body.
 
It is said that there are only two true eye colors: blue and brown.  I find this to be true amongst my family and friends.  When a baby is born, they ALWAYS (through my research) have either blue eyes or brown eyes.  Some babies eyes will change from blue to brown within weeks, others within years. If someone is born with blue eyes, that means that they have "true blue" eyes, even if they end up with brown later in life.  Brown discoloration is a manifestation of tissue weakness within the body.  When a baby is breastfed, I notice that their eyes stay blue a lot longer than babies who are formula fed.  What does this say about formula? Since breast milk is MUCH healthier and easier to digest by babies, we can see why their eyes change from their true healthy state, to a state that shows tissue weakness.

If you have pretty green eyes, you actually have true blue eyes with a yellow discoloration present.  This tells the iridologist what is going on in the body, and what action to take to correct it. If you look at the above photo, you will notice all of the markings in this iris. Each marking indicates something different, and also helps the practitioner to determine the best course of action for his/her clients.

I encourage you all to have an iridology reading, if not for health, then for general interest! You will be amazed when you see a large picture of your eye! If given the proper individualized plan you will begin to see changes in the iris within three months. One of my clients went from having completely brown eyes to having green eyes within a year, and now is starting to see blue on the outer parts of the iris! This client has gone through tremendous transformation and healing in his journey and is continuing to work hard! This is just one example of the many who see changes in their iris, and changes in their life through an iridology reading.

It is amazing what you can see in the iris.  They say, our eyes are the windows to our soul!

Disturbing Facts About the Hepatitis B Vaccination

• The Hepatitis B risk groups are: Healthcare providers and emergency responders, sexually active heterosexuals (more than one partner in the last 6 months), men who have sex with men, and elicit drug users. Unless the mother has Hepatitis B, a 1-day old infant doesn’t fall into any of these categories. In addition, vaccine-induced antibodies decline gradually over approximately 7 years, and up to 60% of persons who initially respond will lose detectable antibodies within 12 years (CDC, unpublished data). So, by the time a child is even old enough to fall into any of the at-risk categories, their antibodies are no longer present.

• Journal of Autoimmune Disease in 1996 wrote, “There is no doubt that the new recombinant hepatitis B vaccine has the ability to trigger autoimmunity.” Now more than ever, children are being diagnosed with auto-immune illnesses like: juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, type-1 diabetes, Kawasaki disease, and myasthenia gravis.  It is also said that other side effects of the Hepatitis B include: Guillian-Barre’ (paralysis syndrome that can be permanent), CNS demyelination (breaking down of fatty coating around the brain and nerves), colitis, autism and many more. 

• The Journal of Autoimmunity reported that in order to create immunity you only need 10 IU/ml of antibody to form. The Hepatitis B vaccine can induce 2,000 IU/ml in ONE SHOT (reminder: there are three shots in the series). Instead of creating the antibodies against the disease, you now have a lot of extra antibodies and no hepatitis B to attack. What happens now? These antibodies find antigens on your cells that look like the hepatitis B virus, and attack. When these antibodies attack cells in the joints, you see rheumatoid arthritis. When they attack cells in the neuro-muscular junction, you see myasthenia gravis. The list goes on and on for diagnosis and adverse reactions.

• A premature 4 lb baby gets the same dosage of the hepatitis B vaccine as a 180 lb man. No other medication is given this way. Another shocking fact: “Infants born prematurely, regardless of birth weight, should be vaccinated at the same chronological age and according to the same schedules as full term infants… The full recommended dose of each vaccine should be used.  Divided or reduced doses are not recommended.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 1994

• Studies have NEVER been conducted on newborns…

• A manufacturer’s representative was asked in a 1997 Illinois Board of Health hearing to show evidence that the hepatitis B vaccine is safe for a 1-day old infant. The representative stated:

“We have none. Our studies were done on 5- and 10-year-olds.”-The Congressional Quarterly, August 23, 2000

Stay away from this vaccine! If you feel like you are suffering from the effects of vaccine damage, contact your Naturopath or Natural Health Practitioner.  Unlike conventional medicine states, there IS HOPE, and there are many different natural remedies and therapies that help with vaccine damage.

From the Chemical Fertilizer Plant to Your Drinking Water…

When you look at a tube of fluoridated toothpaste, you will see the warning: “Do not swallow,” and “in case of accidental ingestion, contact the poison control center.”

Why does toothpaste carry a warning but fluoridated water does not?
In a pea size amount of toothpaste there is a quarter milligram of fluoride (which is what causes this “do not swallow” warning). Interestingly, an 8 ounce glass of water contains the same amount of fluoride. We are told to drink eight of these glasses of water per day, yet without any concern of the amount of fluoride that we are ingesting. In addition to that, the American Dental Association (ADA) as well as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that infants NOT receive fluoridated water for drinking, nor for making their formula, as fluoridated water contains 250 times more fluoride than in mother’s milk. These warnings should raise red flags for the rest of us.

Where does fluoride come from?
The sad truth is that the source of fluoride used in the water supply comes from the super-phosphate fertilizer industry.  What used to be a very harmful and toxic substance, that could NOT be disposed of in lakes or rivers, is now diluted and place into the water that we drink. In addition, what used to cost $400 million to dispose of, has now turned into a $180 million profit, being sold to public water works in 2/3 of the U.S. Are they making a profit at the expense of our health?
The answer is yes.

What does this harmful toxin do?
It has been reported that fluoride causes hyperactivity, brain damage, dementia, impaired neurodevelopment in children, hypothyroidism, bone fractures, lowered IQ, bone cancer, calcification of the pineal gland, and dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis shows as abnormal white and brown spots on the teeth.



Dental Fluorosis


When this occurs, it can be indicative of the fact that the rest of the body has received too much fluoride as well, including the brain. All of these adverse health effects have been found over time in different scientific research articles.

But if this is such a harmful toxin, why do they continue to put it into the water?
Many U.S. cities add fluoride to their drinking water seeking to prevent tooth decay. However, in many different research articles, the countries that do not fluoridate their water have no more cavities than the ones that do. In fact, tooth decay has markedly declined in countries and communities that do not fluoridate drinking water as well as in those that do. Furthermore, in the places that do use fluoride, they report a much higher rate of dental fluorosis (which can only be caused by an excess of fluoride).

Do the benefits out weight the risks in the case of fluoride in the drinking water?
Absolutely not. With it, fluoride brings a whole host of problems. Plant and animal life cannot survive in water contaminated with fluoride. The air we breathe contains some fluoride from smokestack scrubbers (phosphate fertilizer industry), which in turn, poisons the air we breathe.

Where do you find fluoride?
The largest amount of fluoride is put into our drinking water supply. Check with your city to see if they use it or not. Also, buy a good water purifier as bottled water can also contain fluoride (without listing it on the label). Reverse osmosis systems are said to be very good at removing fluoride as well as other harmful toxins. Other sources of fluoride include: toothpastes, pharmaceutical drugs, processed foods and juices, fluoride drops, pesticides, and industrial discharges.

On a final note…
Fluoride is not being added to water to save lives, but instead to prevent tooth decay. Upon analysis of many scientific articles, it is no longer justified to intentionally fluoridate community drinking water. People should not be forced to drink water that has many adverse health effects, when dental benefits can be obtained through other means.

Stand up and let your voice be heard on this issue.  Immediately discontinue use of fluoridated drinking water (check to see if your city uses fluoride). Educate others about the effects of this harmful substance.  Contact your Natural Health Practitioner if you feel like you are suffering from the effects of fluoride, there are many natural therapies to reverse this damage!

Is It a Luxury or a Toxin?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and its close relative Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are very popular ingredients in many household products today.  This is the inexpensive foaming agent in dish soaps, hand and body washes, cleaning products, and even toothpaste.  We might see this as a luxury; it is what allows us to have very calming bubble baths or really foamy shaving creams.  However, studies have shown that this may not be such an innocent luxury. The power of this substance is strong enough to scrub garage floors or to degrease an engine, and is considered to be carcinogenic over time.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate contains the known carcinogen 1,4-Dioxane, which is also known as ether. This compound is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. It is suspected of causing damage to the central nervous system, liver and kidneys. Several deaths have resulted from accidental exposure to this toxic substance.

When applied to the skin, SLS stays in the body for as long as five days and can be found in other tissues such as the liver, heart, lungs and brain.  A report published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology in 1983 showed that concentrations as low as 0.5% could cause irritation, and concentrations of 10-30% caused severe irritation and skin corrosion. Some products have up to 30% of SLS and have been listed as being a harmful substance. SLS can also combine with other ingredients in the container and create nitrosamines, which cause further skin damage and irritation.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate shows itself in many common products today and the average consumer doesn’t even know what it is or the implications that it brings. Soaps, shampoos, bubble-baths, toothpastes, dish soap, children’s soap, mascara, mouthwash, skin moisturizer and sunscreen: these are just a few of the products that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

Why do they use this product if it is so harmful?
The answer: because it is cheap. The SLS that you find in your beauty products is the same exact ingredient that they use in the garage soaps or engine degreasers. You can also bet that since this powerful degreaser can remove oil from an engine, that it removes the very essential oils on your skin as well. It has also been said that once in the body, SLS mimics the hormone estrogen, which can bring on health problems like PMS, menopausal symptoms, decreased male fertility, and increased female cancers (just to name a few). SLS also works to denature proteins, and, as you are aware, our bodies are made up of proteins. Even further, a dental association in Japan tested SLS on bacteria culture and found that it is mutagenic, which means that it has the ability to change the genetics of the cell. Another study found that in children under six, the absorption of this ingredient through the scalp everyday prevented the proteins in their eyes from properly developing. Furthermore, it is said that the SLS in toothpaste contributes to prolonged and more frequent canker sores in the mouth, and the SLS in shampoo causes hair to become more brittle and break easier. So, SLS is not only a harmful additive, but it is a beauty product ingredient that is creating a not-so-beautiful situation.

What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Read the labels on all of your products, especially ones that foam. Realize that Sodium Lauryl Sulfate has many names, including: Sodium Laurilsulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Sodium Diethylene Glycol Lauryl Ether Sulfate, Alkyl Ether Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Polyoxyethylene Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Ethoxysulfate and Sodium Polyoxyethylene Lauryl Sulfate. Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is an almost indistinguishable molecule, having only slightly different properties.

My motto: if you can’t pronounce the name and you don’t know what it is… don’t use it. Also remember that you shouldn’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t eat as everything is absorbed and carried throughout your body. Choose natural alternatives for skin care and beauty products. Cold-pressed coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and brings balance back to the essential oils of the skin. Find toothpastes that are SLS free and contain no fluoride (another article for another time). Also be aware of the products that list themselves as “organic” or “all-natural”, these products can still contain these harmful ingredients at times. Finally, find products that have minimal ingredients, ones that you know and trust.

Too Sweet To Be True?

“SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener is made from sugar, tastes like sugar but it’s not sugar. SPLENDA® is made with sucralose, so it does not contain aspartame. It has an outstanding safety profile and is an ideal sugar alternative for the whole family.” At least this is the claim made by the official Splenda website.

Upon further investigation, the Splenda website states that there are over 100 safety studies out there on their product, although they only have three of these 100 on their website.  Not one of these three studies are actually “safety studies”, but instead measure the glycemic index and the relation Splenda has to tooth decay.  As of 2006, only six human studies have ever been published on Splenda.  Of those six studies, only two had been reviewed by the FDA before they gave the “ok” to put this product on the market. Furthermore, of those two studies, there was a mere 36 people included and only 23 of those people were actually given Splenda for research.  Twenty three people might seem like an adequate number for some people, although you must consider that billions of people are consuming this toxic substance…is 23 people enough now?! Now, if those facts don’t alarm you, I will add one further detail.  Of these studies conducted, the longest trial was four days, and measured how Splenda relates to tooth decay.

Wait, what?!

I have never heard of anyone developing tooth decay in four days.  One thing that is clear now is that Splenda doesn’t actually “prove” anywhere that their product is safe.

Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, reveals shocking evidence on the harmful effects of this very popular artificial sweetener. On his very informative website, Dr. Mercola states that there is overwhelming evidence that artificial sweeteners “wreck havoc” on your body- impairing appetite regulation, and leading to weight gain. It is also now proven that diet soda (which contains these very popular artificial sweeteners) increases your risk of metabolic syndrome, and ultimately, heart disease. 

WOW!

Look at our country, we are a diet Coke and diet Pepsi culture. And, we are also a culture that has skyrocketing levels of metabolic syndrome (which is a conglomeration of low HDL or good cholesterol, high fasting blood sugar, large waistline, and high triglycerides) and heart disease.
Ok, fine. So now we see that there is a link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease/metabolic syndrome. But, what other harmful effects are we seeing from these deceptive fake sugars? A study that was published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health found even more disturbing evidence.

They found that Splenda:
-reduces the amount of good bacteria in your gut by 50%
-increases the pH levels of your intestines (which isn’t a good thing)
-and effects a certain glycoprotein in your body that can lead to other serious complications
Contrary to popular belief, by consuming low-calorie or no-calorie foods, you are virtually doubling your risk for obesity.  The effects listed above aren’t even the tip of the iceberg when it comes to side-effects that people have reported from Splenda.  Some of these include: migraine headaches, seizures, dizziness, blurred vision, allergic reactions, blood sugar increases, pain, nausea, gas…and the list goes on and on.

What can you do to avoid this toxin?
Learn how to read labels to determine if the product contains artificial sweeteners, but beware, sucralose is in many more products than you think. Ten percent of sucralose is sold to drug companies, and many of those drug companies do not list it as an ingredient in their products.  You can also be sure that most products listed as low-calorie or no-calorie contains some sort of artificial sweetener.  Also, be familiar with the different names that these products go as: as an example, Splenda is also called sucralose; Aspartame is also called Equal, NutraSweet, and Canderel.  Be mindful.  Use more natural sweeteners like honey, pure maple syrup, and stevia. Finally, remember that you will not lose weight by eating products with artificial sweeteners… but instead you will double your risk of obesity.

Contact your Natural Health Practitioner to speak about alternatives and for further information! Also learn in a later blog about the health benefits of pure, raw honey!