Swine influenza/Swine Flu virus - Symptoms, Causes, Vaccines, Affected areas, Treatment.

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Swine influenza virus (referred to as SIV) refers to influenza cases that are caused by Orthomyxoviruses that are endemic to pig populations. SIV strains isolated to date have been classified either as Influenzavirus C or one of the various subtypes of the genus Influenzavirus A.

Swine flu, unlike bird flu, is able to pass from human to human contact.

Swine influenza is known to be caused by influenza A subtypes H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2 and H2N3.

In swine, three influenza A virus subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, and H1N2) are circulating throughout the world. In the United States, the H1N1 subtype was exclusively prevalent among swine populations before 1998; however, since late August 1998, H3N2 subtypes have been isolated from pigs. As of 2004, H3N2 virus isolates in US swine and turkey stocks were triple reassortants, containing genes from human (HA, NA, and PB1), swine (NS, NP, and M), and avian (PB2 and PA) lineages.

Signs and symptoms

Main symptoms of swine flu in humans.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have stated that the symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of other strains of human flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A few patients have reported that they also suffered from diarrhea and vomiting.

Causes

H5N1

Avian influenza virus H3N2 is endemic in pigs in China and has been detected in pigs in Vietnam, increasing fears of the emergence of new variant strains. Health experts say pigs can carry human influenza viruses, which can combine (i.e. exchange homologous genome sub-units by genetic reassortment) with H5N1, passing genes and mutating into a form which can pass easily among humans. H3N2 evolved from H2N2 by antigenic shift. In August 2004, researchers in China found H5N1 in pigs. Measured resistance to the standard antiviral drugs amantadine and rimantadine in H3N2 in humans has increased to 92% in 2005.

Chairul Nidom, a virologist at Airlangga University's tropical disease center in Surabaya, East Java, conducted an independent research; he tested the blood of 10 apparently healthy pigs housed near poultry farms in West Java where avian flu had broken out, Nature reported. Five of the pig samples contained the H5N1 virus. The Indonesian government has since found similar results in the same region. Additional tests of 150 pigs outside the area were negative.

Related Links:

• Swine flu Q and A: What the CDC advises
• Obama says US closely monitoring swine flu
• Asia-Pacific region on high alert against swine flu
• CDC - Influenza (Flu) | Swine Influenza (Flu)
• 1976: The swine flu scare
• Mexico fights swine flu with 'pandemic potential'

B vitamins may offer migraine relief By Stephen Daniells, 02-Apr-2009

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Previous studies by GRC identified a gene, known as MTHFR (methylenetetrahydr ofolate reductase), which reportedly makes people susceptible to migraine attacks when there is a mutation or dysfunction in the gene (C677T).

The dysfunction leads to higher levels of the amino acid homocysteine, already linked to increased risk of stroke and other coronary diseases. 

"These results provided compelling evidence that lowering plasma homocysteine levels via folic acid  coupled with B6 and B12 vitamin supplementation improved health-related productivity and therefore quality of life for these patients," wrote the researchers, led by Professor Lyn Griffiths.

Migraine stats

About 12 - 15 per cent of people in the UK, (around nine million people), suffer from migraines, with twice as many women as men affected by the complaint.

The headaches are sometimes preceded by flashes of light, blind spots, tingling in the arms or legs, or anxiety. Suffers generally experience a pounding sensation in one side of the head and many undergo nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and noise. The symptoms are often severe and debilitating, lasting anywhere between four and 72 hours.

Study details

According to findings to be published in an upcoming issue of Pharmacogenetics and Genomics, the GRC scientists recruited 52 people diagnosed with migraine with aura. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either vitamin supplements providing a daily dose of 2mg of folic acid, 25mg vitamin B6, and 400 micrograms of B12, or placebo, for six months.

Results showed a reduction in homocysteine levels by 39 per cent, compared to baseline, and statistically significant compared to placebo 

Furthermore, the supplements were associated with a reduction in the prevalence of migraine disability from 60 per cent at the start of the study to 30 per cent after 6 months. No reduction was observed in the placebo group, said the researchers.

Reductions in the frequency of the headache and the severity of the pain were also observed in people in the B vitamin group, while no such changes were observed in the placebo group.

The influence of genes

When considering the genotypes of the participants, Prof Griffiths and her co-workers report that the benefits were associated with MTHFRC677T genotype. Furthermore, carriers of the C allele responded better to people with TT genotypes.

"We found that C allele carriers responded better to treatment compared to TT genotypes in terms of homocysteine and migraine reduction. This finding may be explained by the idea that TT genotypes are genetically slower homocysteine metabolisers, " said the researchers.

"That is, if all patients received the same vitamin dosage for the same period of time it would be expected that those with TT genotypes, having a reduced enzymatic rate, would metabolise less homocysteine over the treatment period compared to C allele carriers, thus resulting in a smaller reduction in homocysteine and consequent migraine symptoms. 

"Indeed, it may be that TT genotypes although having a higher risk of disease actually require a larger dosage of vitamins to exhibit the same effect as C alleles. Further clinical trials of much larger patient cohorts are required to test this hypothesis," they added.

Prof Griffiths added that such trials will be undertaken, with the aim of elucidating the best dosage of B vitamins for individuals based on their genetic profile – personalized nutrition.

"The success of our trial - supported by the Brain Foundation, Janssens and Blackmores - has shown that safe, inexpensive vitamin supplements can treat migraine patients," said Prof Griffiths. 

Previous studies had reported that B vitamins may benefit migraine sufferers with high-dose vitamin B2 (riboflavin) reported to help prevent migraines (European Journal of Neurology, 2004, Vol. 11, pp. 475-477).

Source: Pharmacogenetics and Genomics

In press "The effects of vitamin supplementation and MTHFR (C677T) genotype on homocysteine- lowering and migraine disability"

Authors: R. Lea, N. Colson, S. Quinlan, J. Macmillan, L. Griffiths

How to Get Rid of Chronic Gouty Arthritis

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Are you experiencing stiffness or pain around your neck, back, and arms, and massages and plasters cannot relieve your pain at all? That's because it's not a simple stiffness that you think.

Even if you place hundreds of plasters or ask your massage expert, and even if you place a hot compress on your shoulder, you will have no satisfactory result at all.

Applying hot compress, plasters, or massage, should eliminate and relieve 'common' stiff shoulders and simple pains. If not, then you might have "Chronic Gouty Arthritis".

In chronic gouty arthritis, the place where you feel pain is not the area that has to be treated. It's a common mistake to assume that the problem is at the place that hurts! This symptom is commonly known as "referred pain". Referred pain is defined as pain that is felt not at its source but in another part of the body.

More importantly, identifying which part of the body is causing the pain can be very tricky. If you're suffering from this condition, it is advisable to visit your physician or shiatsu (acupressure) therapist. Shiatsu therapists can locate the area of the body causing the pain by means of "acupressure" . The source of pain is called the "trigger point". Now you may ask why the trigger point and the area of pain are in different location of the body. That's a good question.

If we stay in a position or attitude for a long period of time, the blood circulation will deteriorate and the surrounding muscles will be affected. Such condition will create stiffness. This stiffness or pain can be eradicated easily by massage or applying hot compress. When the pain is chronic, you can suspect it as chronic gouty arthritis.

But how those simple pains happened to become chronic gouty arthritis? Continuous signals or signs of pain sent to your brain will significantly increase, and your brain will memorize it as real pain. The brain will register the designated part of the muscle as PAIN and becomes a trigger point. That's how trigger point is created. If the pain continuously stimulates the area, the area will have a tendency to expand and increases the trigger point. Then, you will feel pains all over the body for the whole day.

It is really a pain created by the brain due to misinformation, just like an illusion out of wrong information and incorrect memory of the brain.

If the trigger points are left untreated, the muscle surrounding it may harden and even the bones will be deformed. There are cases where the arms cannot move at all.

In fact, all the pain is just an illusion. If treatment is neglected, it will create trigger points. It is very important to consult your physician for diagnosis before it gets worse.

## How Trigger Points Are Found

The illustration below shows the acupressure points. The attending physician will strongly press the points with their finger. If you feel pain somewhere in your body when a certain point is pressed, then you've found the trigger point.

On the trigger points, you can ask your physician to use anesthetic injection to reduce the stressed muscle and remove pains. This simple anesthetic injection will make the blood circulation smoother. Once the blood circulation is improved, the treated area will naturally get well, and will eventually heal. Is it so easy and simple? Yes, it is, when you know it.

Of course, there are times that one anesthetic injection is not enough to yield satisfactory result. Some patients may need one injection every week for about 3-4 weeks.

Another way of treatment is acupuncture (treatment with needles). Acupuncture has more than 4,000 years of history. There are patients who suffer from pains on the waist area, and the trigger points were under the arms.

Slow moving exercise like Tai Chi and acupuncture will help prevent chronic gouty arthritis. Good luck!

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About the Author:

Junji Takano is a Japanese health researcher involved in investigating the cause of various diseases since 1960. In 1968, he invented PYRO-ENERGEN, the first electromedicine device that eradicates viral diseases, cancer, and diseases of unknown cause effectively without side effects.

Free newsletter: http://www.pyroenergen.com/newsletter.htm

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Yeast Infection and Herbal Remedies

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Two of the most common of these single celled fungus is oral thrush and in the vagina (vaginitis or yeast infection). Sometimes though, this fungus is difficult to pin point. It can manifest itself as other ailments such as acne, asthma, arthritis, chronic fatigue, rashes, dizziness, headaches, muscle soreness and pain. 

Antibiotics are a major factor in Candidiasis. They not only kill the bacteria that cause infection but, the bodies' natural defenses as well. 

Birth control pills, anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone, yeast laden foods, diet high in sugar are all major culprits in upsetting the bodies' natural balance. When candida infects the vagina, it results in vaginitis characterized by large amounts of white cheesy discharge and intense itching and burning. When the infection is in the mouth, it appears as white soars on the tongue, gums and inside of the cheeks. Candida can appear in the form of athlete's foot, jock itch and diaper rash in babies. 

Poor co-ordination, muscle weakness, swollen or painful joints, mood swings, loss of libido, infertility, depression, and unexplained tiredness can all be signs of candida. It can cause digestive and hormonal disturbances. 

Systemic Candidiasis and Albicans is an overgrowth of candida throughout the body. In the most severe cases, it can found traveling through the bloodstream and invading every organ in the system. 

Candidiasis may affect both men and women, but is rarely transmitted sexually. Very often allergies to food are present in people with candida infection. The symptoms of food allergies and environmental sensitivities can also mimic those of candidiasis. 

Doctors often take a culture or examine vaginal discharge under a microscope because not all discharges are caused by relatively harmless yeast. Anything from a forgotten tampon to life-threatening pelvic inflammatory disease can cause similar symptoms: itching and an odd-smelling discharge. 

Other causes include gardnerella vaginalis, a bacterial infection; trichomonas, a parasitic infection; and chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Get a professional diagnosis, if you have any doubts about your condition. 

Herbal Remedies for Treating Yeast

Black Walnut: has been shown to destroy Candida better than a commonly prescribed antifungal drug. 

Pau D'arco, an herbal remedy made from the bark of a South American jungle tree (species of Tabebuia, also known as palo de arco, lapacho, and taheebo) is often recommended for candidiasis. Pau D'arco contains an antibacterial and antifungal agent. This herb works well in tea or tincture form. 

Clove works for those when Pau D'arco does not. 

Chamomile tincture, (cold as a mouth rinse for thrush, daily) can be beneficial. 

Garlic: Those who worry about yeast in their system should consider eating raw Garlic every day; since it is a very effective antifungal agent, or use it in tincture form. This is a wonderful natural antibiotic and detoxifier which protects the body against infection by enhancing immune function. 

Grapefruit Seed Extract: for one week, has been shown to inhibit yeast growth. 

Oregon Grape Root: has been shown to inhibit Candida in various studies due to its potent ingredient, berberine. 

Aromatherapy Remedies

Aromatherapy can help speed recovery. Helpful, are essential oils of allspice, cloves, cinnamon, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, patchouli, rosemary, tea tree, and thyme are all beneficial for this condition. 

Eucalyptus: fights bacterial and viral infections. This oil stimulates regeneration of tissue. It increases blood oxygen supplies allowing more oxygen as well as nutrients to be delivered to the cells throughout the body.

Lavender: boosts the immunity and helps destroy candida. 

Rosemary: helps fight infection, expels phlegm and assists in lymph drainage. 

Tea Tree: a cousin to eucalyptus, tea tree oil contains anti-candidal activity. Studies indicate that it may be useful in the topical treatment of superficial candida infections. 

 

Green tea for weight loss

Healthy living with green tea

Recent benefits of tea

Thyme: improves immunity by boosting the production of white blood cells. This oil is great for candida and yeast infectious disorders. 

Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

http://www.peacefulmind.com/candidiasis.htm

Therapies for healing mind, body, spirit

Use of Aspartame: A List Pharmaceutical Companies and their products

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Source:  Aspartame Research Group www.aspartame.ca.

    

GM Aspartame is not only used in food, per se, but is also used in pharmaceutical products. You might be surprised by the number of products that contain aspartame. Frequently it is not listed on the outside of the package but in the small print on the slip of paper inside the package. If you find a product you bought contains this GM ingredient return it to the store and insist on getting your money back or a substitute that does not contain GM aspartame.

      A.H. ROBBINS COMPANY, INC: The following Robbins product contains aspartame.

      Dimetap Cold and Allergy Chewable Tablets

      BIO-PHARMACEUTICS: The following Bio-Pharmaceutics products contain aspartame:

      Childrens Chewable Acetiminophen

      BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB COMPANY: The following BMS product contains aspartame:

      CEFZIL

      EQUATE: The following Equate product contains aspartame:

      Equate Chewable Vitamins Animal-Shaped (with Iron)

      HALL LABORATORIES: The following Hall Labs products contain aspartame:

      Health Balance Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      Zoo Chews Animal-Shaped Chewable Multivitamin

      H & PC PRODUCTS: The following H&PC product contains aspartame:

      Sugar Free Metamucil

      JOHNSON AND JOHNSON PHARMACEUTICALS: The only product made by J&J/Merck Consumer Pharmaceuticals containing aspatame appears to be Mylanta Natural Fiber Supplement, Sugar Free.

      LEDERLE LABORATORIES: The following Lederle products contain aspartame:

      Centrum,Jr vitamins contain aspartame.

      LIFELINE NUTRITIONAL: The following subsidiary lines contain aspartame:

      

      Lucky Stores: Mediguard Childrens Multivitamin Supplement with Iron

      P.Leiner: The following Leiner subsidiary products contain aspartame:

      Carls Drug Co: CARLS DRUG Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      Malone & Hyde: HYDES PARK Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      Hills Dept Stores: HILLS Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      Kent Co: DART Childen's Chewable Multivitamin

      Big B Discount Drugs: BIG B Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      LKS Products, Inc: MEDI-GUARD Childrens Chewable Multivitamins

      Revco Drug Stores: REVCO Childrens Chewable Multivitamins

      Longs Drug Stores: LONGS Children's Chewable Multivitamin

      Gray Drug Fair, Inc: GRAY DRUG FAIR Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      L.PERRIGO: The following subsidiary product lines contain aspartame:

      Eckerd: ECKERD Sugar Free Natural Fiber Laxative

      Fay's: FAY'S Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Laxative

      Longs: LONGS Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Powder Laxative

      Payless: PAYLESS Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Powder Laxative

      Perrigo: Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Powder

      Perry: PERRY Drug Stores Sugar Free Natural Veg.Powder Bulk Laxative

      Raley's: RALEY'S Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Powder

      Rite Aid: RITE AID Sugar Free Regular Flavor Nat.Veg.Bulk Powder

      MCNEIL CONSUMER PRODUCTS: The following McNeil Products contain aspartame:

      Childrens TYLENOL acetaminophen Fruit Flavored Chewable Tablets

      Childrens TYLENOL acetaminophen Grape Flavored Chewable Tablets

      Childrens TYLENOL acetaminophen Cold Multi-Symptom Chewable Tablets

      Junior Strength TYLENOL acetaminophen Fruit Flavored Chewable Tablets

      Junior Strength TYLENOL acetaminophen Grape Flavored Chewable Tablets

      Pediacare Cold-Allergy Tablets for Ages 6 to 12

      Pediacare Cough-Cold Tablets for Ages 6 to 12

      Pediacare Childrens Cold Relief Tablets

      Tylenol Cold and Flu Hot Medication

      Tylenol Cold and Flu No Drowsiness Formula Hot Medication

      Childrens Chewable Co-Tylenol

      MEAD JOHNSON NUTRITIONALS: The following MJN products contain aspartame:

      Tempra 3 Chewable Tablets, 80mg acetaminophen tablet (3.3mg phenylalinine/tab)

      Tempra 3 Double Strength Chewable Tablets, 160mg acetominophen

      (6.6mg Phen/tab)

      GLAXO PHARMACEUTICALS: The following Glaxo product contains aspartame:

      Zantac Efferdose

      MEDIGUARD: The following Mediguard product contains aspartame:

      Mediguard Childens Multivitamin Supplement (Cherry,Orange and Grape)

      MEIJER: The following Meijer product contains aspartame:

      MeijerCircus Shapes (Complete with Calcium,Iron and Minerals)

      MeijerCircus Shapes (with Iron)

      MILES INCORPORATED: The following Miles products contain aspartame:

      Alka-Seltzer Plus Night-time Cold Medicine

      Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough Medicine

      Alka-Seltzer Plus Sinus Allergy Medicine

      Bugs Bunny Vitamin Products (ALL)

      Flintstones Plus Calcium Multivitamin Supplement

      Flintstones Complete Multivitamin Supplement

      Flintstones Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      PENNEX PRODUCTS: The following Pennex Products subsidiaries

      manufacture products containing aspartame: (Most introduced in 1987):

      American Stores: SKAGGS ALPHA BETA Childrens Pain Reliever

      Consumer Value Stores: CVS Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Drug Guild Dist: DRUG GUILD childrens anti-pain Chewable Tablets

      First Nat'l Supermarkets: FINAST Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Greenbax Enterprises: PRICE-WISE Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Hannaford Bros: SHOP'N SAVE Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      J.C.Penny: TREASURY Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Kinney Drugs: KINNEY"S Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      LaVerdiere's Super Drug: LV ACTION SOOTHSALL Childrens Non-Aspirin

      Legend Pharmaceuticals: LEGEND Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin P.R.

      Malone & Hyde: HYDE PARK Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Marsh Supermarkets: MARSH Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Osco Drug: OSCO Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Pay'n Save Stores: PAY'N SAVE Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Penned Products: GOOD HEALTH Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Peoples Drug Stores: PEOPLES Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Piggly Wiggly Corp: PIGGLY WIGGLY Childrens Chewable Non-Aspirin P.R.

      Rite Aid Corp.: RITE AID Childrens Aceteminophen Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever

      Scriver: SUPER TRU Childrens Non-Aspirin Pain Reliever (Acetaminophen)

      Wegman's Food Markets: WEGMANS Childrens Chewable Acetaminophen

      PERRIGO: The following additional Perrigo product contains aspartame:

      Animal Shapes Chewable Vitamins Plus Extra C

      Animal Shapes Chewable Vitamins Complete

      Animal Shapes Chewable Vitamins With Iron

      PHARMAVITE CORP: The following subsidiary lines contain aspartame:

      Eckard Drug: Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      Longs Drug Childrens Chewable Multivitamin

      RALEY'S: The following Raleys product contains aspartame:

      Childrens Chewable Vitamins With Iron

      SQUIBB: The following Squib products contain aspartame:

      Squibcare Sugar Free Natural Fiber Laxative

      Thrifty: Thrifty Sugar Free Natural Vegetable Laxative

      WHITEHALL LABS: The following Whitehall Labs product contains aspartame:

      Childrens Anacin-3 Chewable Tablets

      Cenci Powder: The following Cenci products contain aspartame:

      Naturlax Natural Fiber Laxative

      Lifeline Natural Fiber Laxative

Acne and Pimple Treatment: Ayurveda Tips

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Herbal acne treatment is becoming very popular in acne treatments these days. This cannot but be connected with fact that many a times they left behind no after effect like chemically based treatment. One popular method of herbal acne treatment is through Ayurveda.

These type of herbs have been in traditional use since centuries in various parts of the world, most especially in India, that is thebirthplace of the Ayurvedic form of medicine. 

There are various home-based methods are used in Ayurveda acne scars treatment. Some of these home based methods of Ayurveda acne scar treatment are discussed below:

• The first to be considered is methi. It is called fenugreek in the English-speaking world, it is a bitter herb. About a teaspoonful of the seed are taken and put into about 1,000 to 1,500 ml of water. The mixture of melthi seed and water is boiled thoroughly and allowed to cool to room temperature. The herbal acne treatment solution is then smeared on the areas where acne has affected the skin. This needs to be done for about 7 days.
  

• The next herb to be considered is pudina which is known as mint in English. Their leaf is very valuable in Ayurveda acne scars treatment. Take about a dozen of mint leaves and squeezed under pressure in order to extract their juices. Add this directly to the scars for a quick and lasting healing effect.
  

• Chandana is another herb that is very useful in Ayurveda acne scar treatment. It is called sandalwood and it is highly potent herb for treating skin-related disorders in Ayurveda. It is applied in the form of a paste. Sandalwood is kept submerged in water for a night, after which it will partially dissolve and form a paste. The paste is then rubbed on the skin where acne is present. The paste will desiccate and stiffen and after sometime it is removed by washing with cold water.
  

• It is quite surprising that the neem tree had almost become an idol that is being worshiped in Ayurveda. This is due to its vast number of health benefits to the human bodies, especially in terms of treating skin disorders. The leaves have many benefits even possibly up to a thousand benefits and one of them is the Ayurveda acne scars treatment. The leaves are merely kept in contact with the acne scars by wetting them or with the help of a bandage to relieve the skin of them. This is a marvelous type of herbal acne scar treatment
  

Stress and Anxiety: Effects and herbal Remedies.

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In the modern world of today we are constantly being bombarded with high levels of stress and anxiety. These stresses can be

• physical,
  
• mental or
  
• environmental.

They place an enormous strain on our physical and mental health. Most of us are aware that excessive stress can affect our:

• Ability to think straight,
  
• our digestive system,
  
• adrenal glands and
  
• heart.
• Research has however shown that whenever a stressful situation arises, there is a knock on effect.

Firstly stress :

• Limits the blood supply going to the stomach, this hampers the digestive system and a temporary shut down of our immune system may follow. If we are overwhelmed with stress for an extended period we are likely to experience fatigue and exhaustion. Although it may not be possible to avoid these stress factors in our lives there is help available.

There are many natural herbal supplements, known for they’rerelaxing properties which assist in combating the harmful effects of anxiety and stress. Several herbs are usually incorporated together to make a powerful formula. We will take a look at some of the individual herbs, which go to make up some of these potent anti- anxiety supplements: -

• Jujube Seeds: - hypnotic and anti-anxiety effect used for hysteria, fatigue, sleeplessness, debility and restlessness.

• Magnolia Bark: - has anti anxiety, anti stress properties, lowers the cortisol, promotes relaxation and improves the mood.

• Potassium: -sustains the fluid and electrolyte balance, discharges energy from carbohydrate, protein and fat, assists in conveying nerve impulses.

• Magnesium: -is a trace mineral and its chief role is manufacturing and transporting energy, relaxing and contracting the muscles, assisting some enzymes with their task in the body and mixing proteins.

• Valerian Root: - It supports a feeling of calmness, improves sleep, reduces anxiety levels and facilitates relaxation of the central nervous system. Valerian root is non addictive and does not cause morning tiredness. It also is useful in slowing the heart in those who have the condition known as tachycardia.

• Melatonin: -is one of the most dominant antioxidants in the brain. It restores metabolism, improves the quality of sleep and slows down degenerative diseases of the brain such as Parkinson’s. Melatonin can control extreme cortical production and is therefore effectual in reducing stress levels and regulating sleep cycles.

http://hallosushant.blogspot.com/
Vitamin B complex contains Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12 are all essential vitamins for the nervous system

Ayurveda [Knowledge of life]: A Tourist Guide to Ayurveda - an integral part of Kerala Tourism

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Ayurveda is the most ancient of India’s health sciences, developed over the centuries by the sages through painstaking research. ‘Ayurveda’ translates into‘knowledge of life’, and teaches us not only to cure diseases but also how to ward off illness by leading a healthy life – healthy in the physical as well as mental sense. 

Only from very keen observation of nature and life, for hundreds of years, could such a life science have been formulated. Its approach is totally holistic in nature, treating man as a whole and caring equally for his physical, mental and spiritual health.

It can safely be asserted that, today, Kerala is the only State in India which practises this traditional system of medicine with absolute dedication.In fact, it is today a Rs. 6500 crore industry and growing at a rate of eight percent annually! Kerala's equable climate, natural abundance of forests with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants , and the cool monsoon season (June - November) are ideally suited for Ayurveda's curative and restorative packages.Today,Ayurveda is very much an integral part of Kerala tourism.

Ayurveda breaks down the human body into three fundamental elements:

1. Doshas – representing the physio-chemical and physiological activities of the body
2. Dhatu – denoting the materials forming the basic structure of a body cell
3. Malas – representing the substances which are partly used in the body and partly excreted after serving their physiological purpose.

The role of the physician is to comprehend the imbalance, if any, that has occurred to the dynamic equilibrium of these three elements and take measures for its correction. The physical and mental co-operation of the patient, in making the necessary changes in his lifestyle and food habits, is essential to restore the dynamic balance to the body.

Ayurveda lays special emphasis on prevention of diseases, describing vividly the signs and symptoms by which the illness can be foreseen and preventive steps taken. It also lays down instructions on how to live, in perfect health, in different climactic conditions.

Ayurveda believes that the health of a man is influenced to a great degree by his environment and teaches us how to make changes to our daily and seasonal routines according to age, sex and environment. These routines include diet and the general attitude towards life. Ayurveda also has a separate branch – ‘Rasayana’, to maintain youth and vitality.

Traditional texts reveal that the monsoon is the best season for rejuvenation programmes. The atmosphere remains dust-free and cool, opening the pores of the body to the maximum, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy.

A word of caution to the tourist, though – make your choice of treatment centre with utmost caution and after careful scrutiny; ensure that it is a licensed institution, since numerous centres have sprung up lately with the sole intention of making a fast buck. You may end up getting treatment – and a big hole in your pocket – there, but rest assured it will not be a strictly ‘Ayurvedic’ one. On the other hand, the genuine centres provide great value for money and you will return home a totally different and rejuvenated person!

Recipes: Lentils Halt Breast Cancer(information,symptom,cure,survivors,statistics,diagnosis,treatment) and Make Nutritious Meals for Pennies

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(NaturalNews) Lentils are delicious, versatile, and easy to prepare. They are one of civilization' s oldest foods. First cultivated in the Near East over ten thousand years ago, lentils have been a traditional food staple that provides a wealth of nutritional benefits for pennies a serving. Lentils belong to the legume family. This is a group of vegetables that are at the base of the Mediterranean diet pyramid, a diet that reduces mortality from all causes. New research is showing that a diet rich in lentils and other legumes is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer.

Dietary patterns and breast cancer are associated

Scientists at the University of Southern California in conjunction with those at the University of Minnesota investigated the association between dietary patterns and breast cancer risk in Asian Americans. Their population-based, case-controlled study in Los Angeles Country compared dietary patterns of 1248 Asian American women with diagnosed breast cancer, and 1148 matched controls.

A scoring method was used that found adherence to a Mediterranean diet was inversely associated with breast cancer risk. This means that the more people tended to eat the Mediterranean diet, the lower was their risk of breast cancer. Three dietary patterns were identified, and labeled Western (meat/starch based), ethnic (meat/starch based), and vegetable based. Women who were high consumers of the Western and ethnic meat/starch diets and low consumers of the vegetable based diet showed the highest risk of developing breast cancer with an odds ratio that was more than doubled. In their conclusions, the scientists placed credit for these benefits primarily on higher consumption of legumes. The study was reported in the February 11 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Tiny but mighty lentils provide plenty of other health benefits

Lentils are popular in the vegetarian community because of their high levels of protein. A one hundred gram serving of lentils has around twenty-six grams of protein. However, like all vegetable protein, lentil protein is not complete. It is lacking two essential amino acids, isoleucine and lysine. The means that another food containing these missing amino acids must also be added to a meal made up primarily of lentils. This is easily accomplished by adding brown rice or another high protein grain. And for non-vegetarians it is accomplished with the addition of small amounts of cheese or meat.

Lentils are an excellent source of many B vitamins including B6 and folate, the nutrients that help lower levels of homocysteine. Homocysteine damages artery walls and is considered a serious risk factor for heart disease. When folate and B6 are present, homocysteine is converted to health promoting cysteine and methionine.

The high level of magnesium found in lentils is another cardiovascular health booster. Magnesium is a natural calcium channel blocker. It makes veins and arteries relax, and it improves blood flow that carries oxygen to the cells. Cells that are well oxygenated cannot produce cancer.

An older study, reported in the July 1999 European Journal of Epidemiology, examined food intake patterns and 25 year risk of death from coronary heart disease in 12,763 middle-aged men from seven countries. Different food-groups and combinations were considered for comparison among cohorts. Typical patterns were higher consumption of dairy products in Northern Europe; higher consumption of meat in the U.S.; higher consumption of vegetables, legumes, fish, and wine in Southern Europe; and higher consumption of cereals, soy products, and fish in Japan. When the data was analyzed it revealed that that those who ate vegetables, legumes, fish, and wine had the greatest reduction in risk of death from coronary heart disease. Legumes were associated with an amazing 82% reduction in risk.

Eating lentils keeps energy levels high

Lentils are fiber superstars, and as such are able to help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber grabs hold of cholesterol containing bile and escorts it out of the body. Fiber also helps prevent constipation and digestive disorders.

Lentils are also powerful blood sugar stabilizers. Anyone prone to insulin resistance, hypoglycemia or diabetes can be helped by eating lentils, since they normalize blood sugar levels while providing the body with a steady stream of energy.

In a study reported by The World's Healthiest Foods, researchers compared two groups of people with type 2 diabetes who were fed different amounts of high fiber foods. One group ate the standard diet used by diabetics in America, containing 24 grams of fiber per day. The other group ate a diet containing 50 grams of fiber per day. Their results showed the group eating the high fiber diet had lower levels of both plasma glucose and insulin. The high fiber group also reduced their total cholesterol by nearly 7%, their triglyceride levels by 10.2 percent, and their VLDL (very low density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels by 12.5%.

Lentils are a cooks dream

Dried lentils can be bought already bagged or from bulk bins. Organic dried lentils sell for about one dollar a pound. Store lentils in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place.

There are several varieties of lentils. The most common are red, green and brown. The red variety is the most delicately flavored and cooks the quickest.

Lentils are a versatile food. They have the texture of beans and a milder flavor. Unlike beans, they do not need to be soaked before they are prepared, and can be ready to eat in under 45 minutes. Lentils have a delightful flavor of their own, and easily pick up the flavor of other ingredients. Here are recipes for quick, high flavor lentil dishes

Red Lentil Dah

Ingredients:

Two cups chopped onion

Three cloves of minced garlic

Three cups water

One and one quarter cup dried red lentils

Three quarters teaspoon turmeric

Three quarters teaspoon ground cumin

One half teaspoon chopped fresh ginger or ground

One cup basmati brown rice

Two plum tomatoes, seeded, chopped

One quarter cup chopped fresh cilantro

One jalapeno chili, seeded and chopped (if desired)

Preparation:

Rinse lentils. Combine 3 cups water, lentils, onion, garlic, and spices in heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until lentils are tender, about 15 minutes. For a thicker mixture, puree 1/3 of the mixture and return to the saucepan. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Serve over rice and garnish with the chopped jalapeno.

Brown Lentils and Spinach

Ingredients:

One cup brown lentils

One bunch fresh spinach cleaned and finely chopped

One medium onion chopped

Two cloves garlic chopped

One teaspoon coriander

One tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Juice from one half lemon or lime

Preparation:

Rinse lentils. Place in large saucepan and cover with 2 inches of water. Boil for 8 minutes. Rinse and return to saucepan. Add onion, garlic, and coriander. Fill with just enough water to cover. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. Add spinach, olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt to taste. Serve warm.

Lentils make a great cold main dish or salad

Lentils are tiny, so they can be blended with finely chopped fresh vegetables right out of the garden to make a highly digestible and delicious spring or summer main dish or salad. Finely chop red onion, green onion, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, green bell pepper, tomato, any kind of parsley, and basil. Add to precooked green or brown lentils. Dress with red wine vinegar, olive oil, pepper, and sea salt. The salt is needed to coax the juices from the vegetables adding extra flavor to the dressing and making the dish more digestible. Toss and let marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

For more information:

http://www.healthma d.com/Nutrition/ ...

http://www.whfoods. com/genpage. php?...

http://www.all- creatures. org/recipe. ..

Muhammad Ahmad Al-Masry 

64, Muhammad Korayem Street,

Gomrok, Alexandria, Egypt

Tel: 0020-03-4800555

Fax: 0020-03-3082667

Web: massrii@yahoo. com

massrii@hotmail. co