Learning How Emotions Are Related To Symptoms In Traditional Chinese Medicine

Learning how emotions relate to symptoms is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine and can provide effective results. Emotions and the body are integrated and emotions such as sadness, worry or fear correlate to a certain area of the body. There are seven emotions: sadness, worry,anger,fear,fright,shock and joy. Even though some of these emotions may be seen as negative, in Chinese medicine they are seen as neither ‘good’ nor ‘bad’ just human nature. When we are well emotions flow freely, when we are stressed or ill, the emotions become ’stuck’. Chinese medicine looks to assess the ’stuck’ emotions and ‘free’ them in order to re-balance harmony. The relative organ that is affected by the emotion can also determine what type of treatment will be offered.

Sadness or even grief, affects the lungs leading to Lung Qi deficiency, leading to fatigue, depression and sometimes weakened immune system.

Worry or excessive over thinking can be caused by mental stresses, common in students and those in intellectual professions. These stresses knot the Qi and affect the spleen and lungs bringing on aching shoulders and breathlessness. Worry may also turn into anxiety or panic attacks.

Anger can include rage, irritability and frustration. In anger the tongue becomes dark red in colour.

Fear affects the kidneys and makes the Qi descend, prolonged fear drains the kidneys. In children it can result in bed wetting and in adults it can turn to anxiety and heart troubles.

Fright or shock leads to breathlessness, heart palpitations and puts undue strain on the kidneys.

Joy, although a positive, joy can affect the heart by slowing down the Qi, in small doses joy is beneficial but over excitment can cause heart dis-harmonies.

Causes Of Disease:

Dietary problems such as over-eating can affect the spleen. Over-eating can be caused by worry or excessive mental work and cause fatigue, digestion problems and diarrhea. Symptoms include stiffness, pale skin and lips, possible bruising and bleeding problems. Poor diet, not eating enough or not eating the correct foods due to modern day diets can be detrimental on the flow of Qi and on the spleen. Not only is it what we eat but when such as late at night,eating in a hurry and eating whilst working can affect the stomach and flow of Qi.
Lung problems can be caused by sadness and grief, affecting the lungs and breathing. Symptoms include frequent colds and flu, asthma, allergies and dry skin conditions. In order to improve the lungs, the immune system needs to be boosted.
Heart problems may occur as a result of depression and loss of vitality. Symptoms include heart palpitations, insomnia, poor long-term memory and other psychological issues.

Top 3 Recipes With Natural Herbs For Weight Loss

Do you ever wonder if Chinese natural herbs really work? What are Chinese natural herbs anyway? While most of them originate from China, some may not. The name entails that Chinese herbalists discovered their medicinal properties centuries ago.

Can you lose weight with such herbs? Sure, but as with any other diet or weight loss plan, you need to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. Here are three recipes that contain Chinese herbs and were designed specifically for weight loss.

So go ahead, take a walk to your local China Town to get these natural herbs and get started on the new you with a smaller waistline. You may need these weight conversions when ordering herbs in an Asian store: 1 qian equals 5 grams and 1 liang equals 50 grams.

Chinese Weight Loss And Energy Tea

1L (4 cups) Water
10 g (0.35 oz) Chrysanthemum flowers
15 g (0.53 oz) Hawthorn
15 g (0.53 oz) Puli Tea
To Taste Honey

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the chrysanthemum flowers and hawthorn and let simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the puli tea and stir.
4. Turn off the heat.
5. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool off for a few minutes.
6. Add honey to taste.

Chinese Herbs For Improved Fitness

1L (4 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
50 g (1.76 oz) Abalone Seeds
25 g (0.88 oz) Germinated Barley
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
5 g (0.18 oz) Polygonum Multiflorum
5 g (0.18 oz) Raphanus Semen

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.

Chinese Natural Herbs For Weight Loss

1.5 L (6 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
10 g (0.35 oz) Liquorice
25 g (0.88 oz) Black Plum
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
10 g (0.35 oz) Roselle
To Taste Honey

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
4. Add honey to taste.

Treating Acne With Chinese Medicine

Millions of people all over the world have seen and felt the effects of acne at one time or other. As if the teenage years weren’t awkward enough, this conditions usually shows itself in the early stages of puberty. The condition affects the sebaceous glands which are responsible for oiling hair follicles. As the oil is produced, dead skin cells are transported to the surface of the skin via the pores which are attached to the hair follicles. Whenever clogging occurs in these follicles, it leads to the pimples associated with acne.

Acne is more than a skin condition, it is a disease, and should be treated as such. Social awkwardness aside, acne can cause scarring that lasts long after the pimples themselves have disappeared, often for a lifetime. It should be noted also that acne doesn’t just occur on the face, but can also affect the chest, shoulders, neck and back. The disease poses no health risks, but the misery it causes is certainly understandable. This is even worst when outbreaks are severe, or lasts well beyond the teen years.

Treating acne has become big business, with teens being the main target of advertisers. In most cases, inflammatory acne is treated with either over the counter or prescription medication. Despite the numerous products on the market, it is not clear just how much the manufacturers of acne treatments understand about the disease. Given that skin types are different, what works for one individual may not work for others.

Keep in mind that any medication, whether prescription or over the counter can have side effects. Some acne creams and soaps have been known to cause excessive dryness and skin irritation.

Chinese Medicine

Some people may be wary of Chinese medicine, and consider it a new age fad. However, Chinese medicine has been practiced for over two thousand years. Unlike the Western medical philosophy, Chinese medicine depends on the study of nature and the body as well as cosmic forces. It has spawned a number of theories which form the basis of all treatments, namely Yin-yang, the Channel system, the six confirmations, the Zang Fu organ hypothesis and the Five Phases among others.

While it is often a last resort in Western cultures, it is still the first source of care in many parts of Asia. The main methods of treatment involve acupuncture, food therapy, massage, physical exercise, breathing exercises, meditation and herbal medicine.

Chinese Acne Treatments

Part of the philosophy of Chinese medicine relates to what causes disease. In the case of acne, it is seen as the force of heat acting on the lungs which in turn affects the skin. It is referred to as ‘fei feng fen ci’ which means ‘lesion of the lung wind.’ The idea is that the lungs are directly linked to the skin, and therefore they are both capable of affecting each other negatively. Factors such as stress, a poor diet, other health conditions, or the increase of Yang energy can lay a role in the increase in heat.

Acupuncture

This is a practice of inserting thin needles into the skin for the purpose of relieving pain, or for therapeutic reasons. The aim is to tap into acupuncture points in the body through which energy, the qi, runs. When treating acne with acupuncture, an attempt is made to bring the Yin and Yang back into harmony and to rid the lungs of heat.

As a form of acne treatment, acupuncture has had varying degrees of success. In fact, the best results are achieved when the sufferer also makes lifestyle changes including changing their diet. This is a notable aspect of the Chinese medicinal philosophy. This form of treatment may appeal to patients wary of ingesting medication or applying topical creams that could have side effects.

The Use of Herbs

Many acne patients swear by herbal treatments for the disease. It is important to note that anyone considering this course of treatment should seek the services of a skilled practitioner. Herbs are usually combined to make a formula instead of being given individually. Some of the herbs used in treating acne are seagrass, sileris root, bupleurum, Chinese Wolfberry root bark, pine pollen and honeysuckle flower.

Preparation usually involves boiling the ingredients in an earthenware pot, then straining the contents and drinking the tea while it is still warm. The process usually has to be repeated for a number of days or weeks.

Chinese herbs are said to be free from side effects, however, caution should be exercised when dealing with any unfamiliar treatment. If any digestive complaints or irritations are noticed treatment shouldn’t be continued. Most reports indicate that there are few if any side effects associated with Chinese medicine used in the treatment of acne.

Asian Diet Pyramid

This is another in the growing list of cultural diet pyramids available. Like other traditional diet guides, the Asian Diet Pyramid has physical activity at the base showing the importance of exercise in overall health. Energy foods follow exercise and as can be expected includes rice and rice products, grains and bread. These are included on a daily basis as a part of the traditional Asian meal. The third level of the pyramid includes other foods that should be eaten daily. These are fruits, vegetables and legumes, peas and seeds. The fourth layer has vegetable oils as part of a healthy addition to meals on a daily basis. Fish, shellfish and dairy follow with a note that it is optional whether to consume foods from this group daily. Eggs and poultry should be had weekly, while sweets in moderation can also be included at least once per week. Red meat is at the small tip of the pyramid with the recommendation for its consumption just once per month. Additional recommendations on the Asian Diet Food Pyramid include drinking at least six glasses of water or tea daily, with sake, wine and beer in moderation.

Different Asian cultures have modifications to this pyramid with one of the most well known being the Japanese Food Pyramid.

Acupuncture for Back Pain

Pain management is a crucial element of successfully overcoming illness and chronic discomfort. Acupuncture is a popular choice for many painful conditions, including back pain. This approach offers many benefits, and effectiveness is among the most a

The holistic technique is natural, and there are no medications or harsh side effects. The process uses the body’s natural energy as a means of repair. This helps the patient heal naturally, but it may also have a powerful influence on the patient’s psyche as well.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Pain relief is a glaring benefit of acupuncture, and others are equally as impressive.

• Reduced need for pain medication
• No side effects
• Improved circulation
• Decreased anxiety
• Mental clarity
• Faster recovery

Many people use the approach to treat mental conditions as well. Acupuncture has proved to be effective in helping people overcome addictions, relieve depression, and ease phobias. The connection between the mental and the physical realms is readily apparent in using acupuncture to treat back pain.

Reuters Acupuncture Study

ABC News explores a recent Reuters study that has determined that people with chronic low back pain showed improvement with real and with “fake” acupuncture treatments. The study separated participants into four groups:

• General acupuncture
• Individualized acupuncture treatment
• Pressure points without needles
• Medication and physical therapy without acupuncture

The results are interesting in that the people who received standard medical therapy for chronic back pain did not have as much relief as the other three groups, including the one that used pressure points without penetrating the skin.
The study, as noted by Web MD, makes a strong correlation between acupuncture and lower back pain relief. However, some seem to consider this to reflect negatively on the approach. While the promise for pain relief is real, some are a little disheartened by the fact that a “sham needle procedure” can be as effective as acupuncture.

Acupuncture and Lower Back Pain

The points of the body that acupuncture uses seem to have a strong impact on the individual, even when they are not penetrated with needles. This is exciting news for people who suffer from chronic lower back pain. The discomfort associated with this particular area of the body has a pronounced effect on other bodily systems. For those individuals, any relief is greatly appreciated.

It is important to note that the “sham” approach touched upon the same points of energy used in traditional acupuncture. This can be interpreted as the effectiveness of using the points, even on a shallow level. The body responds to the treatment, and even though no one knows why, there is little reason to forgo the effective approach to pain management.

Anyone who has suffered from significant lower back pain knows how important it is to find effective relief from the intense discomfort. Acupuncture is natural and successful for many patients. Simply taking time to try the approach is the best way to determine whether acupuncture is right for you.

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Acupuncture for Weight Loss

Various points on the body correlate to internal body systems. The ear is among the most important points for weight reduction and patients can expect this area to be an integral part of their treatment plan. Other points correlate to the problems that cause weight gain.

Sources of Weight Gain

In order to treat the weight condition properly, it is necessary to determine the source of the problem. Consider some of the possible contributing factors that may lead to extra pounds:

· Pinpoint the stomach system when the individual eats excessively, even after he is full.

· Focus on the mouth for a person who eats compulsively to address the oral fixation.

· Ovary is for women with hormonal imbalances leading to weight problems, and adrenal for men.

· Thyroid addresses slow metabolic rates.

Less obvious body systems can also interfere with a person’s ability to maintain a health weight. Acupuncture for weight loss may include:

· Kidneys address hormones, water retention, and the nervous system.

· The endocrine system helps relieve water retention as well.

· The spleen helps create hormonal balance and it balances sugar levels in the body.

· The lungs are important for helping people overcome food addiction, including sweets and chocolate.

Anxiety and Weight Loss

Anxiety can be a major barrier for individuals who are tying to lose weight. Diets fail to address the psychological factors that may contribute to obesity. Acupuncture for weight loss often uses the Shemen, a system that alleviates anger, insecurity, frustration, and stress.

An acupuncturist also includes points that alleviate hunger for people who feel the sensation of hunger when their bodies do not actually need nutrition. Appetite suppression is a common intervention in acupuncture. Combined with anti-anxiety methods, the approach is very effective for emotional eaters.

Individualized Treatment

The acupuncturist selects the most important points for the individual. There may be two or more points used in the treatment. Factors that the practitioner may consider include:

· The person’s age

· Eating habits

· Emotional state

· Psychological factors

· Stress levels

· Personality

· Lifestyle

· Types of foods

· Other habits

The practitioner may notice that an individual tends to talk excessively, smokes, and bites her nails. The person seems to have an oral fixation, making the mouth an ideal point to include in the treatment.

A menopausal woman who is under considerable stress can benefit from treatment that focuses on the ovaries, kidneys, spleen, and endocrine system. Shemen would also be of great benefit for this candidate.

Acupuncture for weight loss is best when the acupuncturist creates an individualized plan that addresses the patient’s specific eating problems. With consistency, the approach should alleviate the problem, creating an environment that is conducive to weight loss.

Kidney Yang Deficiency Symptoms

Traditional Chinese medicine notices the correlation between the body’s systems in relation to an individual’s overall health. The symptoms of a kidney yang deficiency shed light on how one organ influences other systems in the body. Consider some of the telltale signs that a deficiency may be the source of health problems.

Headaches

Headaches are manifestations of health problems somewhere in the body. The problem does not always relate to the specific place in which the pain actually occurs. According to Headaches Due to a Deficiency of Kidney Yang a headache may indicate that there is a kidney yang deficiency. This is especially important to consider if the pain is in the back of the head.

Temperature

The kidney yang is responsible for controlling metabolic heat. The body’s temperature may be affected with a blocked yang in the kidneys. You may notice cold feet and hands, even in warmer temperatures. The body is unable to regulate its metabolic temperature properly when there is an imbalance in this system. Sweating for no apparent reason may be linked to a yang kidney deficiency as well.

Incontinence

Incontinence is an embarrassing problem that can occur when there is a kidney imbalance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are gateways that regulate emissions from the bowels and urethra. Emissions may include urine, sperm, or fecal matter. Loss of libido may be associated with a deficiency.

Bone Problems

It may be surprising to some that a correlation between the bones and the kidneys exist. Problems that may arise from a kidney imbalance include weak knees, back pain, and osteoporosis.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of kidney yang deficiency include but are not limited to:

• Hair loss
• Premature graying
• Dizziness
• Impotence
• Premature ejaculation
• Irritable bowel syndrome

The tongue is a particularly important part of the body in relation to the kidney yang. The tongue may appear very moist and it may mimic the shape of the teeth after resting against them. It may also appear very light in color and swelling may occur.

Treatment

Treatment for the imbalance begins with following the Diet Guidelines for Kidney Yang Deficiency to help build the body’s strength. It isn’t necessary to restrict your diet to the specific foods outlined, but it is helpful to make these foods the basis of your eating plan.

It is necessary to avoid certain types of foods when you are treating the condition. Foods that can be troublesome contain dairy and some include raw vegetables. Normally, a salad is a healthy choice but not when you have a yang deficiency in the kidneys.

Supplements

Herbal supplements may improve the conditions as well. Some herbal ingredients commonly used in the treatment of kidney yang deficiency include but are not restricted to:

• Rehmannia
• Deer Antler
• Morinda Roo
• Vine Morinda
• Cinnamon bark
• Seaweed
• Fennel Seed
• Marshmallow root

It is always a good idea to discuss the condition with a health professional before adopting any supplements, including natural herbs.

Hyperbaric Medicine

Hyperbaric medicine has its roots in treating divers who suffered from decompression sickness, otherwise known as the bends. Decompression sickness occurs when an individual’s body is under pressure, as the divers deep in the water. If the divers surface too quickly, their bodies are unable to adjust to the changes in pressure that can cause bubbles to form in the bloodstream.

When people are in normal conditions, they experience normobaric pressure that naturally occurs in normal elevations. Some environments create a hyperbaric atmosphere with a great concentration in pressure. In the case of the divers, they experience excess pressure from the air above as well as the water on either side. The pressure increases the deeper the divers go.

Hyperbaric Chambers

A hyperbaric chamber recreates the conditions that the divers experience when they are deep in the water. The pressure is gradually reduced so they can adjust to the new conditions in the environment. The device focuses on alleviating nitrogen in the bloodstream, replacing it with oxygen.

While treating decompression sickness is an important function of the hyperbaric chamber, it can be used to treat some other conditions that occur in normobaric conditions as well. The pressurized air can include pure oxygen or other helpful gases in order to treat some medical conditions.

Conditions

People who suffer from any of the following conditions can benefit from using hyperbaric chambers:
• Diabetes
• Anemia
• Gangrene
• Mitochondrial dysfunction
• Pervasive developmental disorders

The hyperbaric chamber offers help for people with anemia or diabetes. These medical problems interfere with the body’s ability to absorb oxygen effectively. When cells are deprived of oxygen, they fail to thrive. The chamber delivers oxygen that the blood cells require for proper functioning.

Gangrene is a serious skin problem that derives from a bacterial infection, and in some cases, oxygen can help prevent the spread of the disease.

Mitochondria are energy-producing elements that exist within all cells in the body. They function to convert nutrients into energy. This process requires oxygen and individuals who suffer from mitochondrial dysfunction experience problems with the cells’ ability to create energy, leading to a breakdown in the system. Flooding the cells with rich oxygen can help them function properly.

Some suggest that the approach can be effective in the treatment of autism and related pervasive developmental disorders. There is no scientific data to back the claims, but cases of autism related to mitochondrial dysfunction may benefit from the approach. ABC News explores the subject of oxygen therapy and oxygen.

Hyperbaric Treatments

The intense oxygen therapy is available in a couple different forms. Patients can visit a clinic for a session in the hyperbaric chamber or they can receive treatment in their homes. Portable hyperbaric chambers may be rented or purchased but they carry a hefty price tag.

Another consideration is the price of shipping the chambers, which can be staggering. Those who want to have the oxygen treatments on a regular basis may benefit from purchasing one for between $6,000 and $10,000. Though costly, the price is about the same as two or three rentals.

How To Make Your Own Perfume At Home

Learn How To Make Homemade Perfumes

Still trying to find that elusive perfect scent? Chanel, Alfred Sung and Calvin Klein aren’t working for you? Worry no more. Why not create your own homemade perfumes? It may be easier than you think…

Basic Homemade Perfume Recipe

This water-based perfume is easy to make and does not require many ingredients. All you need is a bowl with a lid, a cheesecloth, a small pot, a stove top, some water and 250 ml (1 cup) of freshly chopped flowers of your choice. Perhaps you enjoy lilac, lavender or roses? What do you have in your garden?

Ready? Gather everything and let’s get started.

1. Place your cheesecloth over the bowl so that the bowl is no longer visible and the edges of the cloth are hanging over the bowl.

2. Place your fresh flowers on the cheesecloth.

3. Pour 500 ml (2 cups) of water over the flowers, making sure that they are submerged.

4. Cover your bowl with a lid and let it sit overnight.

5. After 12 to 24 hours, take all four corners of the cheesecloth and remove it from the bowl, ensuring that the flowers stay in the cloth.

6. Gently wring out all water remaining in the cheesecloth into a small pot.

7. Turn on the heat and let the water simmer until most of the water has evaporated. When there is about 5 ml or 1 teaspoon left, turn off the heat and transfer your concentrated flower water into a small bottle.

8. Label your bottle with the name of the flowers you used and an expiry date of one month from today.

Oil-Based Perfume Recipe

Most people have favourite essential oils. Why not make a perfume out of them? Simply select two or three of your essential oils and mix with a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil. Here is the standard mixing ratio that you should use:

Essential Oil #1 3 to 4 drops
Essential Oil #2 3 to 4 drops
Essential Oil #3 3 to 4 drops
Carrier Oil 10 ml or 2 teaspoons

Essential oils are quite potent when undiluted. You should cover your work surface to prevent it from getting damaged. Once your perfume is mixed, let it sit for 12 to 24 hours before applying.

Alcohol-Based Perfume Recipe

This homemade recipe creates a lighter perfume. You must still cover your work area with plastic and avoid direct skin contact with undiluted essential oils. Here is the basic recipe. Simply select 3 of your favourite essential oils and experiment!

500 ml (2 cups) Water
45 ml (3 tbs) Vodka
5 drops Earth/Wood Essential Oil (sandalwood or ylang ylang)
10 drops Citrus Essential Oil (neroli or bergamot)
10 drops Fruity Essential Oil or Fragrance Oil (cassis or blueberry)

Simply mix the ingredients together and transfer to a glass jar. Once your perfume is mixed, let it sit for 12 to 24 hours before applying. Always keep your homemade perfumes in cool dark areas.

Because you are unique as an individual and your tastes are also unique, have fun and experiment. You’ll soon discover the perfect homemade perfume. The one made just for you, by you.

Make Your Own Organic Lip Balm

If you have cracked, dry or sore lips then you will need to apply some lip balm to get them looking their best again. It is possible to buy lip balm pretty much anywhere; however there is something special about making your own lip balm.

Made To Order

The important thing about being able to make your lip balm is that you are able to customize the recipe so that you can include many of your favorite ingredients. It is actually very easy to make your own lip balm.
One of the easiest ways of making your own custom lip balm is to take some of your balm that you have brought in a shop made with natural ingredients, melt it and then add your favorite essential oils. Mix everything up using a toothpick and then leave it to set. This is a great way to make a tasty lip gloss very easily. Adding spearmint essential oils for example can make a delicious lip balm!

Easy Gifts

Another great reason for making your own lip balm is that you can give them away as gifts, they make fantastic gifts. There are so many different combinations that you can use to make a very personal gift. You could even make a chocolate lip balm for a chocoholic!

Easy Recipe

If you don’t want to cheat and use lip balm that you have brought then it is possible to make your own with this very simple recipe. It’s so easy that anyone can do it! You don’t even need that much:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp castor oil
- 1 tbsp beeswax
- 1 tsp honey
- Carrot seed essential oil
- Sandalwood essential oil
Melt the beeswax using hot water, once the beeswax has melted then add the castor oil and honey until it all blends together and becomes a nice thick liquid. Once this happens then take it out from the hot water. Once the mixture has cooled slightly then add two drops of your chosen essential oils. Once the oils have been added then make sure everything is mixed together very well. You can then separate the lip balm into smaller containers so that you can store it.

It’s a good idea to label each container with the ingredients, usage instructions and when you made the lip balm. The lip balm is very easy to use; you just need to use your finger to simply smooth a tiny amount onto the surface of the lips. You are free to add any essential oils you like, however if you are pregnant then make sure that you can use the oils without any risks.

When making up your own lip balm recipes it is important to add double the amounts of solids as liquid. Beeswax will normally be your only solid ingredients, while all the others will be liquids. Castor oil is optional however it does give the lips a very nice shine. Honey makes the lip balm sweeter. You can also add vitamin E if you wish as this contains antioxidants and will also make your balm last longer.

Alternatively, if you want to avoid the work of making your own lip balm, have a look at some lip plumpers that will instantly make your lips look beautiful.

Ten Top-Rated Spas Worldwide

The level of competition in the travel and hotel industry has led hoteliers to seek new ways to refine their offerings. Many hotels have added spas in an effort to increase revenue as well as to remain competitive. Spa offerings have evolved over the years, and as customers become more knowledgeable, they begin to expect more from their spa experience.

Today’s spas are truly cutting edge, offering complete packages which range from physical fitness and nutrition to luxurious pampering. If you don’t come out of a spa resort feeling completely healthy and rejuvenated, you’re at the wrong place.

10/ Alila Ubud in Bali

This hotel situated close to Ubud, is considered the cultural center of Bali. From its spot in the innermost foothills of Bali, visitors have a lovely view of the valley. Every room has its own garden or private balcony.

The emerald green pool is flanked by sun-beds and Balinese umbrellas, and seems to glide above the Ayung River valley. The hotel’s spa, Spa Alila encompasses a double Spa Pavilion, a double Spa Suite a double luxury Spa Villa. It also features a Massage Suite and a salon for pedicures and manicures.

9/ Hesperia Alicante Golf & Spa Inn

Guests at this hotel can enjoy not only world class spa treatments but an 18-hole golf course as well. Features include a well equipped gym, an indoor heated pool and a Turkish bath. Its close proximity to local beaches makes it a favorite among visitors to Spain.

How to Exfoliate the Lips Naturally with Home Products

Exfoliation is a well known term when it comes to beauty and skin care. Many cosmetics products are said to have exfoliating properties, and this is used as a major selling point. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin, and is important for maintaining skin health. After exfoliation, the skin is left with a fresher look.

There are many products on the market which can help to remove dead skin. Unknown to many however, is the fact that common items found in the home can be used for this purpose. Some people may opt to use homemade exfoliants because they prefer to use natural products.

Why Lip Exfoliation is Essential

Unlike the other organs of the body, the skin is always exposed to the elements. The lips are particularly sensitive to very high or low temperatures. Caring for your lips is an ongoing process that needs to be repeated to get the best results. Because they are one of the most noticeable features of the face, caring for them is all the more important.

Exfoliating Lips Naturally

1/ Honey

Why buy lip products that use honey as an ingredient when you can use the real thing? Honey has been used on the skin since the days of early Egyptian civilization. Honey has the natural ability to help the skin hydrated. Hydrated lips mean softer, more attractive lips. It is because of its naturally hydrating properties why honey is such a popular ingredient of skin care products.

2/ Sugar

Sugar is a natural abrasive, and can be quite effective at removing dead cells from the skin. It makes a great mechanical exfoliant. For best results, it is used in combination with a natural moisturizer such as honey or olive oil. Best of all it is gentle on the lips.

3/ Natural Oils

These include olive oil, sesame oil and jojoba oil. While exfoliation is important, keeping the lips moisturized cannot be ignored. The lips do not produce their own moisture. That is why we have a tendency to lick our lips. Adding one of these to any mixture used for exfoliation will produce great results.

How to Make a Simple Scrub

First, crush about a teaspoon of sugar and mix it with the honey. Now you have your exfoliating lip scrub. Next, use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to the lips in a small circular motion using gentle pressure. Wipe it off with a damp cotton ball and repeat if necessary.

After the treatment, you can apply olive oil, jojoba oil or Vaseline lightly to the lips for that constantly moist look. For added benefit, you can moisturizer to the lips before going to bed.

Yes, lip care is important, although some of use don’t think of our lips until there is a problem. Something as simple as air conditioning can cause the lips to become dry and chapped and unattractive. Using the mixture mentioned above can help to keep your kisser looking soft and healthy. Exfoliating and moisturizing the lips is especially important during winter and summer months, but should ideally be practiced year round.

Best Exercises to Get Rid Of Cellulite

Cellulite is a word that is dreaded by women everywhere. It refers to a dimpling of the skin caused by pockets of fat directly beneath it. While men do occasionally have this problem, it is much more common in women. In fact, according to some studies, up to 90% of all women will end up with cellulite at some point in their lives. It can be found mostly in the pelvic region, particularly on the buttocks and upper thigh.

For the women who can afford it, cosmetic procedures like liposuction have helped to greatly reduce the amount of cellulite they have. There are however, natural ways to rid the body of cellulite and to reduce the likelihood of ending up with the problem.

Clearly the first step to take to avoid cellulite is a sensible diet. Since cellulite is basically fat deposits, then it makes sense to avoid too much fatty foods. Fruits and vegetables are of course important, as is drinking plenty of water. Here are some great exercises for getting toned and keeping cellulite at bay.

Exercises to Get Rid of Cellulite

This word is thrown around a lot, but it certainly can’t be overlooked if you are serious about getting toned and reducing your chances of getting cellulite. The term cardio comes from cardiovascular, and refers to any exercise that improves the body’s ability to consume oxygen, as well as increases the heart rate.

Cardio covers a number of exercises such cycling (stationary bikes too), aerobics, rowing, walking, skating and jogging. Gym machines such as stair climbers and elliptical trainers are also great for getting a good cardio workout. Cardio does not have to be limited to the indoors, as instead of using rowing machines you can use a boat if that option is available to you. Kickboxing is another great cardio workout, and is now so popular many gyms are offering it. If you cannot afford to go to the gym there are many good videos with cardio exercises you can do at home. It is important that before doing this or any other cardio exercise, you get the go ahead from your doctor.

Weight Training

Nothing burns fat like muscle, just ask any gym instructor. Not everyone wants the bulky pro bodybuilder look, and many women shy away from weight training. Doing weight training doesn’t mean that you will build muscles, it all depends on your goal and intensity of your training. Weight training can help you build firm muscles to eliminate cellulite and tone the body. Two great exercises in this area are squats and lunges.

Swimming

Although this can easily be classified as a cardio workout, it is important to mention swimming separately because of its unique potential drawbacks. Research has shown that people who use swimming to lose weight often end up gaining weight. The reason for this is that swimming burns a great deal more calories than many other types of exercise.

This leads to increased consumption to replace those lost calories, so for that reason you may end up gaining weight. If you decide on swimming, it is best to use it as part of your overall fitness regimen. Use a blend of exercises to achieve the desired results. Also of importance, even if you are an experienced swimmer, it is best not to swim alone, because you never know when you may get into difficulty.

Cellulite is fat, and exercise burns fat. Dealing with cellulite calls for being more active and being sensible about your diet. Keep in mind however, that even with regular exercise, as you age it may be more difficult to keep the body properly toned.

Causes and Cures for Dark Circles

Home remedies for dark circles under the eye area offer a great alternative to expensive beauty products. The first step is to consider the possible causes of the darker patches. The cause can help you to develop a viable approach as well as preventative measures.

Possible Causes

Knowing the possible cause for the dark circles is an important step in the process of determining which homeopathic remedy is best to use. You may also take preventative measures to ensure that the eye area does not continue to darken.

Habits and Lifestyle

• Rubbing eyes can lead to breaking the tiny vessels directly under the skin. This can lead to the discoloration that you see. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent the condition from worsening.

• Dehydration is a serious problem that can show up under the eyes. If you are not getting enough hydration, circles are almost certain to appear.

• Fluid retention, on the other hand, can make blood vessels in the eye area more prominent. Too much salt can make the condition worse, and smoking can lead to discoloration from fluid retention, too.

• Sleeplessness may contribute to the problem as well, since skin tends to become pale when the body does not get enough sleep. It is easier to see the blood vessels around the eye area when your skin is lighter in other areas.

• Sun damage wreaks havoc on the skin, making it weak and brittle.

Medical and Genetic Causes

• Allergies are common sources for discoloration under the eyes. The best approach to taking care of circles that derive from sensitivities to certain foods, pollens, or other allergens is to treat the allergy itself.

• Aging leads to thinner skin under the delicate area of the eye. As the skin becomes thinner, the blood vessels are more apparent.

• Anemia can lead to discoloration under the eyes, as can a lack of sufficient iron.

• Medical problems can lead to dark circles under the eyes. If you are experiencing the discoloration, it is important to check with your physican about possible illnesses that can contribute to the symptom, including heart disease, kidney problems, and thyroid conditions among others.

Dark Circle Cures

While there are many products available to treat the discoloration, you can benefit from homeopathic remedies for the condition. This approach treats the possible causes for the problem instead of just covering it.

• Sleep
• Water
• Sunscreen
• Avoid salt
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K topical creams
• Cucumber slices on the eyes
• Chilled teabags

Antioxidants are important in any diet. Foods and supplements that contain antioxidants can be of great benefit.

• Green tea
• Black tea
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Legumes
• Parsley

People with the recommendation of their doctors may take dietary supplements. This is especially important for people who are taking blood thinners, as recommended by Dr. Murad.

Getting rid of dark circles is comparable to losing weight. It is necessary to eat healthy, get rest, and stay hydrated to succeed. A healthy lifestyle is one of the most powerful beauty treatments available.

Loofah Scrub

A loofah scrub is an integral part of a visit to a day spa. The process involves exfoliating the skin with a gourd vegetable known as the loofah. The vegetable has the perfect texture for removing dead skin cells while promoting circulation in the process.

The scrub also includes a mixture of oil and sea salt. The most popular oils used in the treatment are avocado and almond. Each element has a specific purpose in the spa therapy. The natural ingredients make this effective skin treatment very impressive and very popular.

• Almond or avocado oils are effective in deeply moisturizing the skin while preventing loss of moisture during the cleansing procedure.
• Sea salt is a polishing agent that provides the glowing effect that is so desirable.
• Loofah materials remove dead skin cells effectively.

Loofah Plants

Loofah comes in a number of different forms. The products are appealing because they are organic, and quite effective. The plants are not fond of cold weather, making Florida a great place for the gourds to thrive. The plants traditionally grow in India.

The plants may be eaten, but the edible varieties are difficult to find in the United States. Chinese medicine uses powder from the gourds for some treatments. The most popular use for the plant is skincare. The plant is not technically a sponge, but many refer to the loofah scrub materials as sponges.

It is possible to grown your own loofah sponge, but the items are relatively inexpensive, making the task a matter of preference. Other considerations should be made if you intend to use the plant at home.

Health Concerns

Bacteria can grow quickly on a loofah sponge especially considering the bathroom environment. The warm moisture in the room is conducive to bacterial growth. Some people prefer to use the product as a dry exfoliate to avoid the bacteria problem. Those who use the loofahs in the shower or bath should make sure that they dry completely between uses.

Ground Loofah

Ground loofah can be used to exfoliate the skin safely at home. The ground material can be added to a facial scrub or it can be poured into a soap mold as an exfoliating ingredient. This is a nice alternative to using the entire sponge that may collect bacteria.

Loofah Scrub Recipes

A professional in a day spa environment may administer the loofah scrub but some consumers may want to use the scrub at home. The recipe for an effective scrub is relatively simple. Creating your own may be messy and time consuming but you do have the benefit of controlling the balance of ingredients.

If you have dry skin, adding more avocado or almond oil offers more moisture. Dull skin may benefit from a little more sea salt. Foot scrubs using loofah are very effective. Examples of recipes are available on Healthy New Age.

The benefits of using a loofah scrub include:

• Improved circulation
• Removal of dead cells
• Intense moisture
• Polished skin

There is little wonder why this approach is popular as a health and beauty treatment. The loofah scrub is ideal for spas and for the home.

Homemade Loofah Scrubs

Making a homemade loofah scrub is remarkably simple, but extra measures can be taken to ensure that the end product is completely made from scratch. It helps to remember that the loofah is a plant that can be planted, grown and harvested with relative ease. Creating a one-of-a-kind scrubber is a great project that makes excellent g

Growing Loofahs

Growing a loofah plant does require the right environmental conditions. If you live in a place that experiences hot weather for a long period of time, you may be able to grow your own loofahs easily. The blog Down to Earth offers excellent information about growing loofah plants, including the regions in which these gourds flourish.

Types of Loofah Scrubs

The plant is edible but many use the gourds for their sponge-like qualities. When the plants grow to full maturity, the flesh under the skin becomes very porous and strong. The sponge is perfect for exfoliating the skin because it is firm without being too abrasive.

Once the sponge is harvested or purchased, you have a number of different options available. Types of loofah scrubs include:

• Dry scrubs involve using the sponge on dry skin before showering or before applying moisturizer. The sponge will not tear the skin but it is abrasive enough to remove dead skin cells effectively. Many people like this approach because the loofah can grow bacteria rapidly if it is allowed to become too wet and warm in a dark environment.

• Salt scrubs are wonderful when combined with a loofah sponge. The mixture typically uses simple sea salt with little else. Sea salt is great because the stones are relatively large and very effective. Some people use a binding agent like a bath gel to make the salt more manageable.

• Loofah soaps are ingenious inventions that literally merge the sponge with a soap of your choice. Many people purchase craft soaps for the project that can be melted and poured onto pieces of loofah. The soap is allowed to dry, creating a solid piece that can be used repeatedly.

• Facial scrubs that use the natural sponges are typically found in circular pads. It is very important to select facial pads that are made of very soft material to ensure the best results.

• Loofah mitts offer a convenient feature that allows the user to wear the sponge on her hand, creating a very comfortable approach to exfoliating the skin.

• Whole loofahs are versatile options that are ideal for people who want to use them for crafts. These options are also perfect for cleaning dishes, pots and pans, as well as other surfaces.

It is important to moisturize after using the loofah for exfoliation. Some suggest loosening the skin with warm water before using the sponges as well.

The possibilities are seemingly endless for the sponge. People have created many great products using the plants, including slippers and back scrubs. Some creativity can lead to new innovations that are certain to take the sponge to a new level.

ifts.

How to Heal Acne Scars Naturally

Acne is a skin condition caused when follicles or pores become blocked by sebum (oil). This promotes the growth of bacteria and the most recognized characteristic of the condition: pimples. Acnes tends to occur where there is the largest number of these follicles, hence the face, and sometimes the back and chest are most often affected.

Although the condition is most often found in teenagers, it can continue well into the adult years. Even acne that has vanished completely can leave scarring. Acne scars can be a source of embarrassment. Fortunately nature provides us with many alternatives for regaining healthy looking skin. While the importance of a proper diet is dismissed in some quarters when dealing with acne, it certainly should not be overlooked.

1/ Diet

Vitamin E has been shown through numerous studies to help heal the skin and protect it from sun damage. No wonder it is added to so many lotions. Apart from being applied topically, a diet rich in vitamin E also has a positive impact on the look of the skin. Foods rich in this nutrient include:

• Blueberries
• Olives
• Papaya
• Raw sunflower seeds
• Roasted almonds
• Spinach
• Turnip greens

Vitamin A also plays a role in improving the look of the skin. This vitamin is found in dairy products, but be sure to go for the low fat options. Salmon, walnuts and flax seeds deliver important fatty acids to the body to help maintain a healthy look. It is believed that these fatty acids can also protect the skin from future damage by strengthening skin cells.

2/ Topical applications

Aside from diet to keep skin looking healthy, there are natural products which are important in maintaining healthy skin. In fact many natural home-made skincare products work just as well or even better than expensive store bought products. Some of these are:

Honey

This sweet nectar from nature’s busiest worker can be used for more than just its taste. Shown to be effective in soothing mild burns and insect bites, some people also use it on the skin to help lessen the appearance of acne scars. It helps in minimizing the presence of bacteria on the skin due to its anti-bacterial properties. It should be noted however, that not all types of honey are effective in this regard. One proven source is the Manuka Honey from New Zealand.

Cocoa Butter

This has been a popular ingredient of skin products for years for a good reason. It is the natural oil found in the cocoa bean which is used to make chocolate. Cocoa butter has been long recognized for its ability to decreases signs of scarring with regular use. In some cases, scars will disappear completely. For people who are still struggling to control their acne this might not be the best option. Given its oily nature it can lead to more breakouts.

Health Benefits of Self Prostate Milking and Stimulation

The prostate is a walnut size gland in males located at the base of the bladder. It surrounds the outer aspect of the urethra, a tube in which urine drains from the bladder through the penis. The main function of the prostate is to help control urination by pressing down on the urethra which stops the flow of urine. It also contributes prostatic fluid which when added to sperm makes semen which exits the penis in the form of ejaculate.

Another function of the prostate that is being discovered by more and more men is self prostate milking or prostate stimulation. Men have discovered that prostate stimulation, if done properly, can provide a stimulating sexual experience that sometimes leads to orgasm.

The health benefits of prostate milking and stimulation include regular emptying and filling of prostatic fluid. Additionally, the massage and resultant stimulation and relaxation increases circulation and blood flow to the region which promotes healthy tissues.

Some men initially feel self conscious with performing prostate massage or stimulation. If you fall into this category, review the following tips to help make you more at ease.

Listening my way to success in the NCCAOM acupuncture board exam If you like what you read here, you may want to keep updated by using my RSS feed.

I passed my thesis defense! I have a few revisions to make - when I’m done with those and have final approval I will (a) breathe a big sigh of relief, (b) begin posting portions of my thesis for discussion on the blog. As I see the topic, particularly of the last half of the document, being the ground for the next decade or two of my intellectual work - it seems prudent to discuss it with as many people as possible. How else am I going to get good ideas? ;) The thesis process was a good one, overall. I know that most Chinese medicine students don’t have to produce something like a thesis - opting instead to do a final project or something of that nature. If you would have asked me six months ago what I thought about our writing a thesis, I would have given you a pretty negative answer. At that point, I was still pretty freaked out by the clinical aspect of things and I really felt like we should be focusing entirely on the clinic during our final year. I can still see the benefit and wisdom of that idea.

Health Benefits of Self Prostate Milking and Stimulation

The more people become comfortable about their bodies and the more assertive they become about taking care of their own health and sexual needs, the more they will look for safe measures to help them provide these benefits for themselves. Prostate milking is one of those measures that is becoming increasingly more common as a self-help benefit.

To understand what prostate milking is, you must visualize the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is a critical part of that reproductive system. It is about the size of a walnut and is located under the bladder, just in front of the rectum. Its function is to help in the manufacture of semen, the milky colored fluid which carries sperm from the testicles through the penis during ejaculation.

What is Prostate Milking?

The reference to “milk” in males refers to semen; and the milking of the prostate describes the stimulation of the prostate gland either for medical or sexual purposes. In other words, milking is the manual expressing of prostate fluid through direct manipulation of the prostate gland. The prostate may be stimulated internally or externally and it is the external stimulation that is often called prostate massage. It is an activity that can be self-induced or done with the help of a partner. Direct massage of the prostate gland can be highly relaxing and erotic and is a practice that some believe supports lifelong prostate health. Many men declare that prostate milking increases and lengthens their orgasms. For males without a sexual partner, this is a way to obtain sexual release.

Benefits and Risks of Prostate Stimulation

Prostate milking is generally safe for all healthy males and regular milking has been recommended as a preventative health measure. However serious health dangers can result in men with certain prostate and health conditions or even with men with healthy prostates if prostate milking is performed incorrectly. The prostate can be aggravated by disease, infections, swelling or prostatitis and prostate cancer is the second most lethal cancer in males today. There are many videos and products on the market or advertised on the internet that demonstrate how to do this practice safely and with intended effect.

For those men with health concerns, consult your physician: prostate milking may be better done by your doctor or medical practitioner. As an effective treatment for chronic prostatitis and benign prostate hyperplasia or BPH, this procedure can help drain the highly painful build up of seminal fluid in men with a chronically inflamed prostate.

While beneficial for many men in medical and sexually satisfying ways, prostate milking is not advisable for men with acute prostatitis, as prostate milking may allow the prostate infection to spread to other parts of the body. Another serious health danger from prostate milking could be the transfer of an already existing prostate cancer to other parts of the body. As with all even mildly invasive techniques and procedures, being informed about your body’s health will allow you to decide whether or not this procedure can be as safe and satisfying for you as it is for the increasing number of males who are now championing its use.

Listening my way to success in the NCCAOM acupuncture board exam

This includes the much lauded TCMTests.com. Don’t get me wrong, I think they offer a great service. If nothing else, they allow you to have some degree of comfort with the format and general content of the test. However, the specific topics covered in the real test were not touched on much by the practice tests on that site or on the official NCCAOM site. Others may not share my experience, I know.

As an alternative, I recommend you go through the list offered by NCCAOM (content outline) and read through the texts they indicate as sources for question writing. I found that these outlines were quite accurate, and I would pay attention even to those topics that seem less important. While some of the more minor subjects may not come up often, one really unexpected question can really throw you off your rhythm.

Also, it will help you to be a good test taker and - perhaps most importantly - to be lucky. ;)

Now, I’m studying for the “big one,” the exam about acupuncture and point location. I actually postponed the test once, because as I dove into studying the material I really found out how unprepared I am - at least by my reckoning. Why? Certainly not because my education has lacked quality. It doesn’t reflect on my ability to treat patients. It doesn’t reflect on some lack of scholarly rigor on my part. Quite the reverse is true, I think. Why?

Simply, NCNM doesn’t teach to the test. We don’t read Maciocia as a textbook. We learn TCM pattern differentiation, sure, but we learn so much more that is (in my opinion) far more compelling. So, as students, most of us choose not to focus much on the TCM stuff we are taught. Even those professors who might be thought of as “more TCM” on our faculty have a wealth of Classical information and clinical pearls they are constantly divulging - so the TCM stuff tends to get swept under the rug a bit. So, what’s a guy to do?

Ironically, now at the end of my education, I feel that I’ve finally settled on some winning learning strategies. As I studied for this test, I started to use every trick in the book to get the stuff to stick. I had huge pieces of easel pad paper taped up all over my house, I was using innovative mindmapping software, I was making flashcards, I was making diagrams… All of these strategies were definitely helping, but then I ran across an article discussing multiple intelligences, then through some web searching another one about the VARK learning styles theory. The particulars aren’t super important, but it got me thinking about how I learn most effectively.

For me, it’s all about the auditory. I learn very well from lectures - even better if I record them and listen to them a hundred times. I learn well from music, from silly songs, and also from speaking things aloud. It was a small insight, but when I really realized this - I went to town with it. I’d like to share some of the strategies I am using that appeal to my auditory learning style. I should mention that I feel that I learn quite well from reading and writing things as well - but I wanted to talk particularly about the auditory aspects today.

1. I am a big fan of Cal Newport’s blog, Study Hacks. Among a lot of other great advice, he recommends that students use a method called “quiz and recall.” Using this method, you collapse lecture notes (or other material) into “big ideas” with one sentence prompts. You then move through those one sentence prompts and give a pretend lecture to nobody in particular. I do this in the backyard, pacing through my living room and on my daily walks. You can follow the link above to learn more.

With the material I’m studying now, I’ve had to alter the method a little bit. Because I’m not really working off of any notes, I simply let my prompt be the name of a channel or TCM syndrome. With the latter, I actually break it down a bit - working off of a list of diseases and their differentiations. So, I might come to a prompt that says Gan Mao due to Wind-cold. Then I lecture passionately concerning the points involved, their categories and locations, the needling method employed and so on. This has been incredibly powerful.

2. There are a couple of commercially available audio products designed to help you learn and review Chinese medicine related information. I’ve tried Tunes for Tangs and Songs for Sans as well as the product I review below. I’ll talk about Tunes for Tangs in another blog post in the future.

Radioqi.com offers a set of MP3’s called AcutherapeuticA that are meant to be used in learning and reviewing the acupuncture points by channel. These recordings include a soothing female voice speaking over some repetitive trip-hop style electronic music. The voice lists the point designator (HT1, etc), the Chinese name and an English translation, any pertinent categories (Yuan source, etc) and finally some basic TCM actions. Sometimes, they will offer a little more - such as a particular contraindication (like LI-4 being contraindicated in pregnancy). They also include a two-file set of the 100 most popular acupuncture points set against more upbeat music. I have not tried the second product, but I own several of the channels set over the more soothing music.

It’s undeniable that this product has helped jog my memory about some of the less used points. Because I’m largely an auditory learner, the stuff goes in my head with the music and sticks there. There is something quite compelling about the ability to go on a walk in the dawning summer sun and be studying at the same time. As I’ve discussed elsewhere, and doubtless will again, I’m a huge fan of audio learning for that very reason. However, I’m very disappointed that Radioqi has not included location information! I also feel that the voice speaks a little too quickly through the action information. Because of these shortcomings, and also because I can’t afford the ~$100 it takes to buy all the channels, I hit on one final (and my favorite) acupuncture audio learning solution.

3. I have a MacBook, which has a great built-in microphone. I also own the excellent free audio editing program Audacity. Sitting here, frustrated with my limited choices as far as audio learning of acupuncture goes, I hit on a natural solution. Make my own MP3’s! I simply recorded myself reading out of my favorite text for studying for the acupuncture exam, adding commentary as I thought of it. For instance, when talking about a Yuan source point, I might mention everything I know about that category of point. In a couple of instances, I played the excellent Yi Ching Music for the Health CDs, in the background, using the element corresponding to the channel I was studying. I then exported these as WAV files from Audacity, and added them to my iTunes library, converting them to MP3s in the process. Finally, I loaded these onto my iPhone for listening to on the go.

While it’s a bit weird listening to myself talking about acupuncture channels, it has been very helpful. The points are sticking in a way they haven’t before. I’m going to try this technique for syndrome differentiation as well. After this exam, when my time opens up a bit, I plan to use some version of this technique to continue learning about formulas.

Saffron Health Benefits

Saffron is a delightful, yet expensive spice that seems to offer more than fragrant flavoring to recipes. Nutricraze describes saffron as a possible remedy for a number of different conditions, including fatigue, sore gums, heart disease, and it can help promote mental clarity. Although these claims appear to be excessive, a new international study has looked into the spice with eye-opening results.

Saffron and Vision

Professor Silvia Bisti led the study at Italy’s L’Aquila University. The professor conducted the study through the university’s ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science. It appears that saffron may protect and correct vision in individuals who have retinitis pigmentosa or muscular degeneration related to age.

The study found that saffron is a powerful antioxidant, affecting the genes that manage fatty acid levels in the membranes of the cells. Vision cells become stronger and more apt to heal with the support of the antioxidant. The effects are impressive, with human subjects with age-related muscular degeneration experiencing restored sight with the help of saffron.

The researchers suggest that the next endeavor resulting from the promising study is to determine which components in saffron contain the vision-repairing elements. The specific ingredients are not readily apparent, but the spice has enjoyed much acclaim for many centuries.

Saffron Health Benefits

The health benefits of saffron are not necessarily the first thing fans of the exotic spice think of. The spice is very difficult to harvest, making it an expensive ingredient. It takes more than 4,500 flowers to yield a single ounce of the spice. The expense and painstaking efforts may be well worth the effort considering the possible health benefits the spice offers.

Saffron is full of surprises, including its medicinal purposes. Health problems that have been treated with the spice include:

• Digestive problems
• Asthma
• Insomnia
• Menstrual problems
• Common colds
• Inflammation
• Depression

Saffron and Depression

A recent study suggests that saffron may be as effective as Prozac in treating mild to moderate depression. More research is necessary in order to determine the effectiveness of saffron in the treatment of depressive disorders. The approach is promising, but it may not be prudent considering how expensive the spice is.

Saffron Supplements

The spice is pricy, making it a poor choice for many people. Some people may be tempted to try saffron in supplements but this approach may not yield very good results. The supplements are notorious for having inferior ingredients and additives. Pregnant women should not take saffron for medicinal purposes, and anyone considering the approach should consult their physicians.

It is always a good idea to purchase any spice or food product through a reputable source. If the price seems too good to be true, chances are that the spice isn’t really saffron. Some suppliers try to sell safflower to people looking for the spice. Unfortunately, there is no real replacement for saffron. Some suggest turmeric is an adequate replacement, but it is certain that the replacement will not offer the same medicinal benefits.

Psychedelic medicine: Mind bending, health giving

OHN HALPERN clearly remembers what made him change his mind about psychedelic drugs. It was the early 1990s and the young medical student at a hospital in Brooklyn, New York, was getting frustrated that he could not do more to help the alcoholics and addicts in his care. He sounded off to an older psychiatrist, who mentioned that LSD and related drugs had once been considered promising treatments for addiction. "I was so fascinated that I did all this research," Halpern recalls. "I was reading all these papers from the 60s and going, whoa, wait a minute! How come nobody's talking about this?"

More than a decade later, Halpern is now an associate director of substance abuse research at Harvard University's McLean Hospital and is at the forefront of a revival of research into psychedelic medicine. He recently received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to give late-stage cancer patients the psychedelic drug MDMA, also known as ecstasy. He is also laying the groundwork for testing LSD as a treatment for dreaded super-migraines known as cluster headaches.

And Halpern is not alone. Clinical trials of psychedelic drugs are planned or under way at numerous centres around the world for conditions ranging from anxiety to alcoholism. It may not be long before doctors are legally prescribing hallucinogens for the first time in decades. "There are medicines here that have been overlooked, that are fundamentally valuable," says Halpern.

These developments are a remarkable turnaround. Scientists first became interested in psychedelic drugs - also called hallucinogens because of their profound effect on perception - after Albert Hofmann, a chemist working for the Swiss pharmaceutical firm Sandoz, accidentally swallowed LSD in 1943. Hofmann's description of his experience, which he found both enchanting and terrifying, spurred scientific interest in LSD as well as naturally occurring compounds with similar effects: mescaline, the active ingredient of the peyote cactus; psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms; and DMT, from the Amazonian shamans' brew ayahuasca.

At first, many scientists called these drugs "psychotomimetics" because their effects appeared to mimic the symptoms of schizophrenia and other mental illnesses. However, many users rhapsodised about the life-changing insights they achieved during their experiences, so much so that in 1957, British psychiatrist Humphry Osmond proposed that the compounds be renamed "psychedelic", from the Greek for "mind-revealing". The term caught on, and psychiatrists started experimenting with the drugs as treatments for mental illness. By the mid-1960s, more than 1000 peer-reviewed papers had been published describing the treatment of more than 40,000 patients for schizophrenia, depression, alcoholism and other disorders.

A prominent member of this movement was Harvard psychologist Timothy Leary, who among other things tested whether psilocybin and LSD could be used to treat alcoholism and rehabilitate convicts. Although his studies were initially well received, Leary eventually lost his reputation - and his job - after he began touting psychedelics as a hotline to spiritual enlightenment. Leary's antics helped trigger a backlash, and by the late 1960s psychedelics had been outlawed in the US, Canada and Europe. Unsurprisingly, clinical research ground to a halt, partly because obtaining the necessary permits became much more difficult, but also because few researchers were willing to risk their reputations studying demonised substances.

But to some brave souls, psychedelic medicine never lost its allure. One of them is Rick Doblin, who in 1986 founded the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) in Sarasota, Florida, and who earned a doctorate from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government after writing a dissertation on the federal regulation of psychedelics. For nearly 20 years MAPS has lobbied the FDA and other government agencies to allow research on psychedelics to resume. It has also persuaded scientists to pursue the work and raised funds to support them. A similar body, the Heffter Research Institute in Santa Fe, New Mexico, was founded in 1993 by scientists with an interest in hallucinogens.

In the past couple of years their efforts have begun to pay off. Doblin is optimistic that psychedelic research is back for good, and this time it will do things right. "This gives us the chance to show that we have learned our lessons," he says. Halpern, too, is anxious to lay to rest the ghost of Leary. "That man screwed it up for so many people," he says.

With this in mind, Halpern says the first task for him and others is to evaluate the safety of psychedelics. And they are up against an entrenched orthodoxy: a 1971 editorial in The Journal of the American Medical Association warned that repeated ingestion of psychedelics causes personality deterioration. "Only a few of those who experience more than 50 'trips' are spared," it warned.