Tips and Treats for a Healthy Halloween

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

It is that time again. The time for all your ghosts, goblins and neighborhood witches to come a knockin'.

When finding treats for your guests, you may want to consider low- calorie, low-fat options. Snacks that are fun and good for your kid's health is a win-win situation. Halloween/holiday packaging has even become more creative in recent years to add to the enticement value. You may want to consider

Sugar-free gum
100% Juice boxes
Cheese sticks
Cheese and cracker snacks
Organic candied apples
Dark Chocolate treats
Popcorn or popcorn balls
Apples
Grapes
Bananas
Unshelled peanuts
Low sugar cookies, pumpkin muffins or peanut butter drops (see below)

There are great non-food treats you can offer such as rubber spiders or worms, stickers, baseball cards, balloons, crazy top pencils, crayons, colored chalk, comic erasers and whistles.

Make sure all your treats are individually wrapped. Even the non-food goods. If you buy in bulk, you can find great little gift bags you can fill and then close them up with a twist or steam seal. Tag your goodies with a note with your name and address. This eases the mind's of fellow parents.

Safety Comes First

Be sure your kid's costumes are flame-resistant. If there is a mask with the costume, be sure they have plenty of breathing room and make sure the mask does not obstruct their view. Comfortable shoes are important to avoid blisters and accessories should be kept to a minimum, the younger the child is.

Be sure and impose the basic rules:

1. If not accompanied by a parent, be sure kids travel in groups.

2. Keep on sidewalks as much as possible. If there are no sidewalks, stay to the extreme side of the road.

3. Carrying a flashlight or glowstick.

4. Reflective stickers can added to costumes and shoes.

5. Visit homes that you know. Most people will keep a light on the front porch as a welcome indicator.

6. Be sure to tell the kids to always be pleasant, courteous and thankful.

7. It is always a good precaution to examine all treats before letting your children eat them to be sure they have not been tampered with. Be sure packaged candies are unopened and fruits and vegetables are in good condition. Cut all fruit in quarters before opening.

8. If you are inviting guests, turn on your front light or decorate your front door to make it inviting to guests. Make sure your front door is not cluttered with objects that children may trip over. If you have pets, be sure they are secured away from the door.

9. Halloween parties at home can alleviate fears of your kids going outside, especially if it happens to be bad weather.

10. Remember: safety comes first.

Halloween Treats

These are some great suggestions that the kids can help you make, if you have kids. You can also have a great time making them yourself for your little guests (or even your big guests!)

Pizza Faces

Let kids arrange sliced olives, green peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, and other things on English muffins brushed with tomato sauce. Top with grated cheese for "hair" and heat in the microwave or oven until the cheese melts.

Peanut Butter Drops

1 jar reduced fat Peanut Butter
1 box confectioner's sugar

Blend 4 heaping tablespoons of peanut butter with 3 teaspoons confectioner's sugar. Add a little water of it is too binding. Then drop on a cookie sheet and bake at 350° F for 10 minutes.

Quick Pumpkin Cupcakes

1 box regular yellow or vanilla cake mix, 2-layer-size
2 eggs
1 Tablespoon oil
2/3 cup canned pumpkin
1-1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 cup water or apple juice

Decorations:
Canned low-fat vanilla frosting
Candy corn
Black or orange jelly beans
Black licorice

Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray each muffin cup with nonstick cooking spray or use paper cupcake liners. Blend the cake mix with the eggs, oil, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, and the water or juice with mixer at low speed until moistened. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes. Spoon into the prepared muffin pan. Bake 18 minutes or until done. Cool in pan completely before frosting. Kids will love to decorate these cupcakes. Makes about 18 cupcakes.

Halloween Cereal Balls

1/4 cup Smart Balance margarine or butter
1 package (10 oz.) marshmallows
2 Tablespoons orange-flavored gelatin
6 cups crisp rice cereal
1/2 cup candy corn

Combine margarine and marshmallows in 2-quart glass bowl. Microwave (high), uncovered, 2 1/2 to 3 minutes or until marshmallows are puffed. Add orange gelatin; mix until combined. Stir in cereal until well coated. Mix in candy corn. Cool enough to handle. With buttered hands, form mixture into 24 balls. Place on waxed paper until cool. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap for storage. Tips: Pieces of cut black licorice can be substituted for candy corn. Mixture can be pressed into greased 13x9-inch baking pan and cut into squares for serving. Per Serving: 85 calories, 1 g. protein, 2 g. fat, 119 mg. sodium, 0 mg. cholesterol.

Vampire Bites: Garlic Puffs (better for adults)

Make your own dough or substitute homemade dough with ready made pop up croissants or rolls.
Roll out the dough and spoon in fresh or chopped garlic.
Roll them up and place them on a cookie tray.
Place them in a pre-heated oven at 350° F for 10-15 minutes.

Enjoy the holiday!

Heart Attack and CPR

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

A blood clot is the most common cause of a blocked coronary artery. Usually, the artery is already partially narrowed by atheromas. An atheroma may rupture or tear, narrowing the artery further and making blockage by a clot more likely. The ruptured atheroma not only reduces the flow of blood through an artery but also releases substances that make platelets stickier, further encouraging clots to form.

Uncommonly, a heart attack results when a clot forms in the heart itself, breaks away, and lodges in a coronary artery. Another uncommon cause is a spasm of a coronary artery that stops blood flow. Spasms may be caused by drugs. Sometimes the cause is unknown.

Heart Attack: Myocardial Infarction (MI)

Signs and Symptoms present as pain that is crushing, tightness, squeezing, band-like, radiating, cyanosis, sweating, cold, "clenching fist over heart", pain in the ear, umbilicus, jaw, teeth, back, arm, hand pain (often on the ulnar side), autonomic response of vomiting, nausea or a feeling of impending doom.

About one third of people who have a heart attack do not have chest pain. Such people are more likely to be women, people who are not white, those who are older than 75, those who have heart failure or diabetes, or those who have had a stroke.

Other symptoms include a feeling of faintness, sudden heavy sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, and a heavy pounding of the heart.

Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) occur in more than 90% of people who have had a heart attack. Immediately and up to a few days after a heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms are a common reason that the heart cannot pump adequately. Abnormal heart rhythms originating in the ventricles (ventricular arrhythmias) may greatly interfere with the heart's pumping ability or may cause the heart to stop pumping effectively (cardiac arrest). A loss of consciousness or death can result. Sometimes loss of consciousness is the first symptom of a heart attack.

If you suspect a heart attack, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Should a heart attack occur, you should go to the emergency room and seek help immediately. Time is of essence. Only examination by a doctor, who will administer an electrocardiogram (EKG) and/or a blood test, can confirm if you are having a heart attack.

The most important thing to do if you think you are having heart attack symptoms:

Dial 911 to call an ambulance or get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible so the doctor can examine and treat you.

Crush or chew a full-strength aspirin (swallow with a glass of water) to prevent further blood clotting.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions delivered to victims thought to be in cardiac arrest. When cardiac arrest occurs, the heart stops pumping blood. CPR can support a small amount of blood flow to the heart and brain to "buy time" until normal heart function is restored.

To learn CPR properly, take an accredited first-aid training course, including CPR and how to use an automatic external defibrillator (AED).

Before you begin, assess the situation before starting CPR:

Is the person conscious or unconscious?

If the person appears unconscious, tap or shake his or her shoulder and ask loudly, "Are you OK?"

If the person doesn't respond and two people are available, one should call 911 or the local emergency number and one should begin CPR.

If you are alone and have immediate access to a telephone, call 911 before beginning CPR — unless you think the person has become unresponsive because of suffocation (such as from drowning). In this special case, begin CPR for one minute and then call 911.

If an AED is immediately available, deliver one shock if advised by the device, then begin CPR.

Remember the ABCs

Think ABC — Airway, Breathing and Circulation — to remember the steps explained below. Move quickly through Airway and Breathing to begin chest compressions.

AIRWAY: Clear the airway

Put the person on his or her back on a firm surface. Kneel next to the person's neck and shoulders. Open the person's airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver. Put your palm on the person's forehead and gently tilt the head back. Then with the other hand, gently lift the chin forward to open the airway.

Check for normal breathing, taking no more than five or 10 seconds: Look for chest motion, listen for breath sounds, and feel for the person's breath on your cheek and ear. Gasping is not considered to be normal breathing.

If the person isn't breathing normally and you are trained in CPR, begin mouth-to-mouth breathing. If you believe the person is unconscious from a heart attack and you haven't been trained in emergency procedures, skip mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing and proceed directly to chest compression.

BREATHING: Breathe for the person

Rescue breathing can be mouth-to-mouth breathing or mouth-to-nose breathing if the mouth is seriously injured or can't be opened.

With the airway open (using the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver) pinch the nostrils shut for mouth-to-mouth breathing and cover the person's mouth with yours, making a seal.

Prepare to give two rescue breaths. Give the first rescue breath — lasting one second — and watch to see if the chest rises. If it does rise, give the second breath. If the chest doesn't rise, repeat the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver and then give the second breath. Begin chest compressions to restore circulation.

CIRCULATION: Restore blood circulation with chest compressions

Place the heel of one hand over the center of the person's chest, between the nipples. Place your other hand on top of the first hand. Keep your elbows straight and position your shoulders directly above your hands.

Use your upper body weight (not just your arms) as you push straight down on (compress) the chest 2 inches (approximately 5 centimeters). Push hard and push fast — give two compressions per second, or about 120 compressions per minute.

After 30 compressions, tilt the head back and lift the chin up to open the airway. Prepare to give two rescue breaths. Pinch the nose shut and breathe into the mouth for one second. If the chest rises, give a second rescue breath. If the chest doesn't rise, repeat the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver and then give the second rescue breath. That's one cycle. If someone else is available, ask that person to give two breaths after you do 30 compressions.

If the person has not begun moving after five cycles (about two minutes) and an automatic external defibrillator (AED) is available, apply it and follow the prompts.

The American Heart Association recommends administering one shock, then resuming CPR — starting with chest compressions — for two more minutes before administering a second shock.

If you're not trained to use an AED, a 911 operator may be able to guide you in its use. Trained staff at many public places are also able to provide and use an AED.

Continue CPR until there are signs of movement or until emergency medical personnel take over.

Natural Antihistamine Herbs

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Histamine is a chemical, which is involved in our local immune response as well as regulating physiological function in the gut, acting as a neurotransmitter. During the time of seasonal allergies, the body's immune system sees pollen as an invader. In an allergic reaction, our body produces histamine, as a defense mechanism. This inflammatory chemical attaches the cells in our body and causes irritation. It is the deficiency of this enzyme that triggers an allergic reaction as histamines gathers in the synapses.

An antihistamine serves to reduce or eliminate the effects brought on by histamine, a chemical mediator released during allergic reactions. Antihistamines are commonly used for allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, contact dermatitis, urticaria (hives), angioedema and pruritus (atopic dermatitis, insect bites).

There are hundreds of plants used all over the world, which are used in herbal medicine as treatments for hystamine attacks. Here are some of the most accessible and reliable.

Basil (Ocimum sanctum): this great herb has a history in helping prevent stomach cramps, gas as well as constipation. A poultice of Basil leaves can can work as an antihistamine to draw out insect, bee wasp, or snake venom. It helps alleviate acne, heal abrasions and speeds healing when used on cuts.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): is rich in anti-histamine properties. The flowers can be crushed and used as a poultice for inflammatory swelling. Make a tea and drink 2-3 times a day. Chamomile can cause histaminic allergic reactions in some very sensitive people. If this occurs, simply discontinue.

Jewelweed (Impatiens aurea): contains a compound called "Lawsone" that treats uticaria. Jewelweed is used as a natural remedy for poison ivy, poison oak, okra spines, stinging nettle and acne treatment. Jewelweed is also used for heat rash, ringworm and many other skin disorders, as well as bug bites and razor burn.

Papaya (Petroselinum crispum): inhibits the secretion of histamine. Papaya juice can be taken internally as well as applied topically to diffuse a histamine attack.

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): The very same plant that will produce hives if its hairs inject their histamine into you can work to heal the problem. Some herbs whose pollen can cause symptoms of hay fever have been used as a way to reduce symptoms of hay fever, which is the homeopathic theory of "like cures like". The most important of these are Goldenrod and Ragweed (Ambrosia ambrosioides). Eyebright and Elder also have a reputation for use as hay fever remedies. However, an individual allergic to one of these plants should avoid them unless under the care of a doctor of natural medicine. Freeze-dried nettle leaf extract taken in capsule form will treat hives and allergies. The plant does not contain enough histamine to cause a problem when taken orally. Tea can be made from the leaves or cooked as greens. The stinging hairs lose their sting when the plant is cooked.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Echinacea is a widely used herbal remedy for treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. This purple coneflower has shown to have antihistamine properties.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): In my Chinese herbal practice, fennel is used for indigestion, spasms in the digestive tract, as well as expelling phlegm from the lungs. Fennel is rich with the antioxidant flavonoid "Quercetin". Quercetin is a strong natural antihistamine shown to be very helpful for allergies and histamine-related inflammation. Make as a tea and drink 2-3 times per day.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale): another classic herb in the Chinese Materia Medica, ginger works well on allergic reactions such as hives and wheals. Slice up a ginger root boil it in eight cups of water for 30 minutes. Allow the herbs to steep for another 30 after you have boiled it. Drink 2 to 3 cups a day. You may add the tea to a hot bath and soak for 20 minutes. Dip a wash cloth in the tea once it is at room temperature and use as a compress.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Hailed the "mushroom of immortality", one of my favorite natural remedies is Reishi (Ling Zhi). Japanese researchers have found that reishi acts as an antihistamine, making it useful for treating allergies. "Lanostan", a compound found in reishi, appears to control the release of transmitting chemicals in the body, thereby inhibiting the release of histamine. Since reishi also promotes the adrenal function and immune reaction, it has added effectiveness in controlling the body's reaction to an allergen.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): is a natural antihistamine, as well as having antiseptic properties to help purge infections. The essential oil has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against a host of different bacteria and fungi.

Vitamin C is believed to be a natural antihistamine agent if used at high doses, around 3,000mg to 5,000mg a day.

Wild Oregano (Origanum vulgare): aka Wild Marjoram, have at least seven different antihistaminic chemicals, therefore fights allergies as well as fungus and infection.

Essential Oils As Antihistamines

Essential oils should be used in a base oil (to avoid irritation) and massaged on the skin. Never use essential oils internally.

Caraway Seed Oil: has antihistamine and antimicrobial properties and is very effective in treating mild allergic reactions.

Clove Oil: has antihistamine properties. This essential oil is helpful in the treatment of dermatitis due to allergic reactions.

Lemon balm (also known as melissa): has antihistamine action and is useful to treat eczema and headaches. This essential oil has antihistamine properties and helps with allergies.

The Business of Healing

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

I often get questions every week about how to run your business as a healer.

As I was a professional dancer for 15 years , I would constantly see and work with some of the most brilliant artist in the business! They were great at their art but when it came to balancing a check book, most of my friends could not even do that! Let alone negotiate a contract or work with any type of financial undertakings.

As a healer, I see the same pattern. Many healers are amazing at the "art of healing" but have trouble when it comes to the business aspect of our art.

As healers, we all tend to be empathic and many times feel what the client is experiencing. We are often swayed by this empathy and feel guilty for asking for money when healing others.

You are a professional and this should justify any doubts in your mind. You have spent probably a small fortune for schooling. Not to mention a great amount of time in learning your craft. Learning how to heal is a life time of experiences. Clients come to you BECAUSE you are professional and this brings up other issues as well.

Professional mannerism. Professional presentation. Professional space. Professional demeanor. Do you have this in order?

Your ideas about what you are doing are very important as to what you portray to your client. The "Alternative Medicine" practice has many stigmatism's attached to it....good and bad. If you don't believe in what your doing, why should your client.

The subject of what someone should charge for a healing session or healing products comes up often in my seminars. This always comes down to two concepts:

Self worth and Competitive price.

Competitive pricing is, of course a very logical concern. Pricing is confined to individual regions. It is always considered a good idea to find the price range for which your goods and services is being provided. If the highest rate is $120.00 per session and the lowest rate is $80.00, it is always good to fall at either end or somewhere between these guidelines when coming up with a price for YOUR service or your products.

Which leads me to Self Worth. Your self worth. I often find that healers will charge BELOW what they feel they are worth. Simply for their reason of "lack of self worth."

I always hear comments like,

"No one will pay for something as ethereal as that..."

"I don't want to out price myself..."

"I don't think people will pay me for that..."

"I'm not good enough to charge those prices..."

If you do not charge for what you love doing and feel will make you happy, then eventually this regret will effect your drive and love for healing. Effect how you treat your clients and effect your overall performance as a professional. If you are not happy, no one else around you will be either.

Often time, you have two extremes. You will find clients who will pay a high price for your service because they feel a high rate equals the best quality. The other end of the spectrum is always the bargain hunter who will always go with the practitioner with the lowest price.

Where are you in this scale? That depends totally on you and where you see yourself in the scheme of things. It is a reflection of who YOU want to be.

Healing Transformation: The Realm of the Possible

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

As individual as the cells that make up our systems, the process of healing each individual is as unique as this.

It is important, as human nature dictates, to want to categorize and organize things. This is an innate function of the brain system itself. If you have this... then you do this... and so on.

As we learn... a system of healing, there tends to be a set of tried and true rules to look at, follow and be guided by.

As we practice... it is never as cut and dried! We would all like to see patients come in with classic textbook symptoms. This would make it so easy for us to treat. Unfortunately, those cases tend to be more the exception than the rule. That is what makes healing not only an art, but also a lifetime of discoveries.

I feel, nothing in healing, is etched in stone. What method of treatment may help one individual may not help the next.

I also do not believe that if someone has said or has proven that a form of healing MAY NOT work in general, that this is still not grounds for abandoning the treatment. What may not work for one person, may absolutely be appropriate in healing another.

In Western medicine, for example, we tend to only work with and accept the most recent medications, the most recent findings and the most current approaches...they disregard the rest.

In Chinese medicine, no theory or form of healing is ever thrown out but placed in the "tool belt of knowledge" and maybe able to be called upon when one path is not as efficient.

What shift does it take for someone to find that road to feeling well again? The path to wellness must include a sense of freedom and enjoyment within that journey, and we have to be true to ourselves. We have to believe in the recovery process.

We get sick for a reason. There is the germ and virus explanation that is the basis of Western medicine. There is also another way of looking at it. When we catch a cold, it is because our immune system is low and makes us more vulnerable to these bacteria or viral infections. When we are stressed and the adrenal glands are working over time, we set ourselves up for a bigger fall. We leave the door open, when we do not take care of ourselves. There are also the metaphysical reasons behind illness and that is due to the lack of love and honor we give ourselves.

Once we are ill, this becomes another mind set. We become more aware, more sensitive to our bodies, to our emotions, to our mortality. Our perceptions create our reality. When we realize that we are ill, we can become overwhelmed. I have seen it with myself and I have seen this with my patients.

There is a mind medicine that must be taken along with all your other treatments. That is to reprogram your consciousness to create the perception that you are on the road to recovery. I have seen this work with someone who has had a cold, as well as those who have been terminally ill. When a transformation is focused along side with other forms to fight the illness, the healing process accelerates.

Your belief in your recovery is the first and foremost therapy that should be applied.

Herbal medicine, acupuncture, color therapy, music therapy, massage therapy…whichever form of therapy you are working with, these practices should reinforce the belief in the recovery and the transformation to wellness and balance.

What stops us from getting better?

Again it is our mind set. There are those who actually enjoy being in their illness. They get the love and attention they may not have. They may find this a great excuse to miss work, step out of life for a bit, or simply to slow down. Perhaps, it is a sign their bodies are telling them that it is time to slow down. Some people are just not ready or willing to be on the recovery path. Even if they say they are. If they have not made the conscious effort to truly believe in their recovery, they are only half way there.

Your belief in your recovery is the first and foremost therapy that should be applied.

There are many factors in the healing process and your body is only part of the plan, your mind is the other piece of the puzzle. If you are treating someone and you are doing your best to get him or her well, see where there consciousness is about their illness.

I had a wonderful teacher who once said to me:

"A doctor's job is not to heal a patient, it is to show the patient who they really are!"

This profound statement has stayed with me. It has given me the insight to offer options of healing to a patient. It has given me the insight to try and steer them in the right direction in order to find balance and to allow them to help heal themselves.

I am always seeking other options in healing.

Heartburn Help: Top 20 Tips

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Heartburn occurs when a muscular valve, called the lower espophageal sphincter functions improperly, which allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. This tube, which leads from the stomach to the throat can be greatly effected by stomach acid, causing a burning, painful sensation in this area. Lack of proper enzymes are also a cause. Heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux are all usually defined by a vague chest or abdominal discomfort or burning in the solar plexus area, with no apparent organic cause, that occurs during or soon after eating, drinking, or stressful situations.

About 20% of all adults get heartburn at least once a month. Between 5% -15% of adults have severe heartburn. About 25% of pregnant women have daily heatburn and 50% have heartburn at least once a month.

There are two sphincter muscles located in the esophagus. The upper esophageal sphincter and lower esophageal sphincter. Underlying conditions that could possibly be the cause of heartburn include:

GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also referred to as acid reflux disease, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly and stomach contents back up or reflux into the esophagus. This condition can damage the lining of the esophagus, causing such problems as ulceration and even esophageal cancer. Do get a doctor's or practitioner's opinion to see if further treatment is necessary. If you have asthma, this may be an underlying cause of GERD. It has been found that asthmatics are twice as likely to have GERD as non-asthmatics. Obesity seems to increase the risk of GERD. Research documented in the Annals of Internal Medicine show that as body fat increases, so did symptoms of GERD.

Gastroparesis is a delay in the gastric emptying of the stomach. This delay causes the contents of the stomach to back up into the esophagus.

Hiatal Hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through an opening in the diaphragm causing reflux of stomach acid.

Peptic Ulcers in the stomach are considered gastric ulcers or stomach ulcers. Duodenal ulcers occur in the duodenum. Both of these types of ulcers are referred to as peptic ulcers and can be an underlying cause of heartburn.

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux occurs when the upper esophageal sphincter doesn't function properly. Acid will flow into the throat. When this occurs, it is referred to LGR.

Pregnancy is also an underlying of cause of heartburn, even if a woman has never experienced this before she was pregnant.

Observe episodes of indigestion for changes in symptoms. If character, timing, frequency or severity changes, a more serious disorder may be responsible. These include heartburn from irritation of the lower esophagus, gallbladder disease, ulcers or stomach cancer.

Heartburn symptoms in some people can cause chronic cough, asthma, wheezing or choking.

Heartburn at night appears to be worse than heartburn during the day. According to research in The Chest Journal, people have more trouble sleeping at night because of the pain they experience from the heartburn. Acid stays in the esophagus longer when one lies flat.

Although food is not the root cause of heartburn, it can aggravate the situation. Foods such as onions, garlic, tomatoes, chocolate, peppermint, citrus fruits, alcohol, soda, coffee and fatty foods can worsen heartburn symptoms. A bland diet will not cure heartburn.

Aspirin and Ibuprofen can aggravate heartburn.

Top 20 Tips for Helping Heartburn:

1. Over all lifestyle changes. Stress can aggravate this situation.

2. Change in diet can greatly decrease symptoms. (See foods above). Write down what you eat in a heartburn journal in order to identify which foods trigger pain.

3. Allow time for leisurely meals. Chew food carefully and thoroughly. Avoid conflicts during meals.

4. Avoiding refined carbohydrates (sugar, white rice, white bread), even honey & other "natural" sugars, except Stevia. Reduce acid production so that even if the reflux occurs there is less to irritate the esophagus.

5. Eat small frequent meals so pressure in the stomach does not push contents back up.

6. Do not eat late at night. Allow several hours of digestion time before laying down. Acid stays in the esophagus longer when one lies flat. Stay propped up at least 30-45 degrees after eating or drinking & while sleeping. By placing 2 in. blocks under the two legs of your bed at the headboard, can helped tremendously!

7. Avoid caffeine for a while.

8. Peppermint, which helps many digestive problems, can irritate reflux because it may cause spasms of the cardiac valve.

9. Avoid excitement or exercise immediately after a meal. Avoid situations that make you swallow air, such as exercising with your mouth open (breathing through your mouth) or chewing gum.

10. Learn relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, controlled breathing and stress reduction.

11. At first sign of heartburn, drink a large glass of water.

12. Antacids are an over the counter medicine that relieves heartburn temporarily by neutralizing stomach acid. Dependence on antacids are dangerous. They can mask serious problems if symptoms persist. Antacids can also interact with certain prescription drugs and HIV medications. Check with your pharmacist or doctor.

13. Stop Smoking. Chemicals in cigarette smoke can weaken the lower espophageal sphincter and worsen heartburn.

14. If you have a juicer, juice a raw potato, peel and all, then add an equal part of water to the juice and drink it immediately after preparation, 3 times a day.

15. Fresh papaya and its seeds (or Papaya tablets) can be eaten to help with digestion.

16. Plant-based enzymes and probiotics can be very beneficial and should be taken daily. The enzymes in pineapple are also good for digestion but, this is an acidic fruit and for some people is not the right choice. It depends on the individual.

17. Aloe Vera juice is incredible for healing of the intestinal tract.

18. Vitamin B complex, 50 mgs, 3 times daily with meals is needed for proper digestion.

19. Plus 200 mcg of Vitamin B 12, 3 times daily will enhance the Vitamin B complex.

20. Acupressure massage. At the first sign of heartburn, massage the acupressure points between your solar plexus and navel. Massage these point first, gently in a clockwise motion and then slowly work deeper. This can actually relieve heartburn pressure and pain for months! Also, acupuncture works very well in treating heartburn and other gastrointestinal issues. There is a wonderful Chinese herbal remedy, which is a modified version of a Classical Chinese formula that is brilliant when it comes to treating heartburn.

References

1. Annals of Internal Medicine
2. Chest
3. The Cleveland Clinic
4. The National Institute of Health

Hemorrhoids (Piles) and Traditional Chinese Medicine

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

As a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine, I have had great results with piles and my patients. There are herbal ointments from China that are wonderful (and yes, some may not have the ingredients listed, for it is not a federal requirement to do so. You often will see ingredients listed either by the herb's botanical name or it's Pin Yin name, as a courtesy as well as a better opportunity to allow for these herbs and herbal formulas to be sold in the United States. Believe it or not, most of the quality herbal manufacturers are more than willing to list ingredients in order to standardize their products like the United States.)

Chinese Medicine divides hemorrhoids into 3 stages:

1st stage- small hemorrhoids which do not go protrude to the exterior, fresh bleeding upon defecation.

2nd stage- protrusion of tissues from the anus with bleeding, although the tissue retracts into the sphincter within a short period of time.

3rd stage- bleeding with large protruding hemorrhoids that require physical pushing to place back into the interior of the anus. They may exit the body with coughing, sneezing. laughing, when fatigued, or when standing for a long period of time.

Prevention

- keep stool soft. Include plenty of water, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fiber in you daily diet.

- regular exercise promotes smooth bowel movements.

- try to breath through your bowel movements (do not hold your breath), DO NOT STRAIN. Take your time, relax and it doesn't hurt to enjoy it.

- try to not sit or stand for prolonged durations too often. Take short walks, stretch, and contract your mid-section to get the blood flowing through that area.

- keep the anal area clean, although one should be gentle with cleansing. Try to use chemical free soaps such as pure olive oil soaps, or baby wipes.

- squat during defecation, the toilet seat may make it more difficult to pass the feces by compacting the anal canal. Try platforms on either side of the toilet to raise yourself up if your knees are higher than you buttock when sitting.

- anal exercises, tighten and hold sphincter/anal muscles while contracting the abdomen, do not hold your breath, contract and repeat as often as possible.

- keep emotions smooth flowing, do not let them run your life! Anger in particular can aggravate hemorrhoids.

Things to try at home first

- take warm baths. They are soothing and cleansing, especially after you have a bowel movement. Although sometimes too much bathing may worsen anal itching (pruritis ani).

- wear cotton underwear and loose fitting clothes to decrease moisture in the area.

- apply a cold compress to the area for 10 minutes, 4 times per day.

- applying vitamin E oil or virgin olive oil may help with the pain of passage of the stools.

- apply an herbal compress of Dandelion (Pu Gong Ying), or Jiu Hua Gao, or Wu Bei Zi San to the area for 10 minutes, 4 times per day.

- external wash or steam with sea salt water or Fu Feng Jing Xi Ji, Ku Shen, Pu Gong Ying, Huang Bai.

- add psyllium husks to the diet daily to aid bowel movements (the husk of the seed `Che Qian Zi') or use wheat bran.

Western Herbal Treatment

- Bovine Cartilage- taken via rectal route to soften stools, 2.2 grams in the form of a 2% suppository administered at least 3 times daily.

- Butcher's broom- make a decoction and apply topically (wash or compress) to relieve itching and burning

- Camphor- a solution of 0.1-3% Camphor can be applied topically (wash or compress) 3-4 times daily.

- Diosmin- (citrus bioflavinoid) 1350mg plus Hesperidin 150mg twice daily for 4 days followed by Diosmin 900mg and Hesperidin 100mg twice daily for 3 days. Also for prevention of relapse, take Diosmin 450mg plus Hesperidin 50mg twice daily for 3 months.

- Hesperidin- (citrus bioflavinoid) used together with Diosmin.

- Peru Balsam- preparations of 5-20% can be used for daily application. If being used over large areas of the body it is advised to keep the solution under 10%.

- Poplar- 5 grams of the dried buds per day made into a topical application daily.

- Sweet clover- wrap a handful of flowers in linen, thoroughly soak in hot water, and place on the affected area 3-4 times per day.

- Witch hazel- apply compress to the affected area 3-4 times per day. Liquid preparations are available at any drug store.

Taking Herbs Internally

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Herbal medicine is a natural and healing form of therapy that can be very beneficial, long term. There are common sense precautions that must be take when using herbal medicine internally.

*Never take herbal medicine internally if you are nursing or pregnant.

*If unusual symptoms occur, stop taking the formula and usually symptoms will disappear rather quickly.

*When also on prescribed Western drugs, great care should be taken. Anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics can upset the stomach and irritate the intestinal tract. Herbal formulas can tax the digestive tract. Do not take herbal medicine and anti- inflammatories/antibiotics together at the same time.

*Blood thinners prevent clots from forming in the blood vessels. These are very strong western drugs that must be monitored carefully. Drugs used to thin the blood, often interfere with herbs for trauma, since they both have the same action. The combination can interfere with western drugs and may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not take blood thinning herbal medicine with western blood thinners.

* Heart medications and herbs used for trauma both effect the circulation of blood. Although these herbs have a different method of action, in conjunction with heart medication, there can be unwanted side effects.

*Seizure medications work on brain function and in conjunction with Chinese herbs, should not be taken at the same time and should only be done under supervision.

HIV and Alternative Medicine

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

HIV is a virus. Viruses infect the cells of living organisms and replicate (make new copies of themselves) within those cells. A virus can also damage human cells, which is one of the things that can make an infected creature become ill.

People can become infected with HIV from other people who already have it, and when they are infected they can then go on to infect other people. Basically, this is how HIV is spread.

HIV stands for the 'Human Immunodeficiency Virus'. Someone who is diagnosed as infected with HIV is said to be 'HIV+' or 'HIV positive'.

HIV Statistics

*More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since 1981.
*Africa has 12 million AIDS orphans.
*At the end of 2006, women accounted for 48% of all adults living with HIV worldwide, and for 59% in sub-Saharan Africa.
*Young people (15-24 years old) account for half of all new HIV infections worldwide - around 6,000 become infected with HIV every day.
*In developing and transitional countries, 6.8 million people are in immediate need of life-saving AIDS drugs; of these, only 1.65 million are receiving the drugs.

Ways in which you can be infected with HIV

-Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person

-Sexual intercourse without a condom is risky, because the virus, which is present in an infected person's sexual fluids, can pass directly into the body of their partner. This is true for unprotected vaginal and anal sex.

-Oral sex carries a lower risk, but again HIV transmission can occur here if a condom is not used - for example, if one partner has bleeding gums or an open cut, however small, in their mouth.

-Contact with blood from an infected person.

-If sufficient blood from an infected person enters the body of an uninfected person then it can pass on the virus.

-From mother to child. HIV can be transmitted from an infected woman to her baby during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. There are special drugs that can greatly reduce the chances of this happening, but they are unavailable in much of the developing world.

-Use of infected blood products. Many people in the past have been infected with HIV by the use of blood transfusions and blood products which were contaminated with the virus - in hospitals, for example. In much of the world this is no longer a risk, as blood donations are routinely tested.

-Injecting drugs. People who use illegal injected drugs are also vulnerable to HIV infection. In many parts of the world, often because it is illegal to possess them, injecting equipment or works are shared. A tiny amount of blood can transmit HIV, and can be injected directly into the bloodstream with the drugs.

It is not possible to become infected with HIV through:

-sharing crockery and cutlery
-insect / animal bites
-touching, hugging or shaking hands
-eating food prepared by someone with HIV
-toilet seats

Global statistics can be found at: http://www.avert.org/worldstats.htm

Know Your Numbers

Two numbers should be looked at, when discussing HIV infection:

If you are being treated for HIV or AIDS, your doctor uses a number of blood tests to check how you're doing. One of the most important tests measures VIRAL LOAD, the amount of HIV in your blood. Another very important test counts your CD4 CELLS, sometimes called T-CELLS. CD4 cells are a key part of your body's disease-fighting defenses, called the immune system.

CD4 cells help to organize your body's defenses against disease. Doctors can take a sample of your blood and count the number of CD4 cells. Healthy adults and teenagers usually have a CD4 count of at least 800 cells per CUBIC MILLIMETER of blood (a cubic millimeter is a very small amount, roughly one small drop).

HIV attacks CD4 cells, and as time goes by people with HIV often see their CD4 counts drop. The lower your CD4 count, the greater your chances of getting a number of very serious diseases. When your CD4 count is below 200, the risk of illness becomes severe.

Viral load tests, which tell the doctor how much HIV is in your blood, are a very important clue to how quickly HIV is doing harm. These tests go by several different names, like PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or bDNA (branched DNA), but they all work roughly the same way. They count HIV's genetic material -- the building blocks of the virus. People with a high viral load are much more likely to get sick or die of AIDS than people with a low viral load.

Studies have shown that when treatment reduces your viral load, it also reduces your chance of getting an AIDS-related infection or dying. Recently, a group of expert scientists reviewed 18 studies of anti-HIV drugs, which involved over 5,000 patients. Over and over again they found the same thing: The more viral load was reduced, the healthier the patients stayed.

Alternative Medicine and HIV

Over the last decade, researchers have identified a number of drugs that slow progression of the virus as well as therapies to treat the many opportunistic infections that attack people with HIV disease.

Although as yet, there is no cure, the key to effective treatment is early detection and intervention. This is done by strengthening the immune system, reduce stress, maintain good nutritional practices and exercise as a way to relieve stress and boost your immune system.

Whether you have been diagnosed with HIV or not there should be an emphasis on improving lifestyle issues. Taking control of or your life and taking an active role in any disorder is an important adjunct to treatment. Consideration of alternative therapies in conjunction with conventional medicine may offer additional opportunities for those living with HIV/AIDS to be proactive in their treatments.

Mind Medicine

Stress is natural and affects your emotions. It can help you to deal with some situations. However, excessive stress can cause physical symptoms, it can damage your immune system and make you ill. Find ways of managing the stress in your life. Find ways to relax and recharge your batteries. Listen to your body; if you are tired, rest and you'll be better for it.

HIV can bring anxieties. One way of tackling these are through getting information, by learning about your condition, gaining confidence in it, in yourself and making informed choices for your future.

Boost Your Immune System with Meditation

Fold your hands gently in your lap and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths. Then just sit. If you have never meditated before, you will probably feel as if your mind is full of thoughts. Don't try to stop the thoughts, just watch them. Imagine that you are on the bank of a river and that your thoughts are the river going by. Don't try to stop the river, just watch it. Within a week, you will see the river begin to slow down. You may become impatient, or even bored. That's okay. If you find yourself complaining, just watch the thoughts pass by. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes. You may find that you fall asleep because you are so relaxed. That's good because, in many ways, you have begun to let go. Continue at this pace and each day allow just alittle more time for yourself to meditate. Doing this allows you to relax and forget about time.

Consider these alternative therapies: Acupuncture, ayurveda, bodywork & massage, diet therapies, herbal medicine, homeopathy, mind-body therapies, Siddha medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, Unani medicine and yoga.

Herbs, Supplements and Vitamins Beneficial for HIV Infection

Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that have at least one unpaired electron, which makes them highly reactive. Free radicals promote beneficial oxidation that produces energy and kills bacterial invaders. However, in excess, they produce harmful oxidation or "oxidative stress" that can damage cell membranes and cell contents. These free radicals cause inflammation.

In human beings, free radicals are the natural by-products of many processes within and among cells. Free radicals are created by exposure to various environmental factors, cigarette and tobacco smoke, air pollution, alcohol, drugs, radiation from televisions and computers, chemicals and a busy, stressful life.

Antioxidants are a classification of several organic substances, which include vitamins C and E, vitamin A (converted from beta- carotene), selenium, alpha lipoic acid, and carotenoids. Together as antioxidants, these substances are thought to be effective in helping to prevent certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and cataracts. At the cellular level, antioxidants serve to deactivate certain free radicals in turn helping to decrease inflammation. The best source for antioxidants are in fruits and vegetables. Acetyl-l-carnitine: is a molecule that occurs naturally in the brain, liver, and kidney. Natural levels of Acetyl-l-carnitine diminish as we age. Acetyl-l-carnitine is related to the amino acid L-Carnitine, which is a carrier of fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes, where energy is produced within each cell. N-Acetyl Cysteine (N-AC) is protective to Liver tissue and aids in breaking down excessive mucus.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: is a unique antioxidant that is both water and fat soluble, which allows it to enter all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid contributes to and is important for the production of energy inside the cell by utilizing sugar to produce energy contributing to mental and physical stamina, reducing muscle fatigue and neutralizes free radicals. Alpha Lipoic Acid recycles and enhances the effects of both Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Alpha Lipoic Acid targets liver protection and is helpful for patients on hepatotoxic medications such as antiretrovirals, antifungals and typically any long-term medication protocols. No known contraindications exist. Possible side effects include skin rash and the potential of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients. People who may be deficient in vitamin B1 (such as alcoholics) should take vitamin B1 along with alpha lipoic acid supplements.

Astragalus: is a Chinese herb that has been used for centuries for its immuno-modulating qualities. There is mixed scientific evidence on its efficacy with HIV, but well documented studies on its ability to stimulate the immune system. This herb is used often used in conjunction with other immune boosters such as reishi, maitake and shitake mushrooms.

Beta-carotene: (Carotenoids), of which beta-carotenes are the most popular, are found in many fruits and vegetables, animals, plants and microorganisms. The body converts beta carotene into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, growth, cell division, reproduction and immunity. Among the 600 or more carotenoids in foods, beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein are well- known leaders in the fight to reduce the damage from free radicals and are helpful with eye health.

Boxwood: has been shown in research to foster immune stimulation and promotion of t-cell activation. This can be found in capsule and tincture.

CoQ10: (Coenzyme Q10) is a vitamin-like compound also called "ubiquinone". It is an essential component of cells and is utilized by the mitochondria in the normal process of energy production. It helps convert food into energy at a cellular level. Coenzyme Q10 acts as an antioxidant, much like vitamins C and E, helping to neutralize the cell-damaging molecules known as free radicals. CoQ10 is one in a series of ubiquinones, naturally occurring compounds produced in nearly every cell of the body, and was discovered as recently as 1957.

The primary function of CoQ10 is as a catalyst for metabolism. Acting in conjunction with enzymes, the compound speeds up the vital metabolic process, providing the energy that the cells need to digest food, heal wounds, maintain healthy muscles, and perform other bodily functions as a major antioxidant in cardiac tissue and has protective effects on brain tissue. Studies indicate high dosage can be used safely and effectively. Certain cholesterol lowering drugs have also been shown to deplete coenzyme Q-10. Patients on cholesterol lowering drugs should consider adding at least 200mg of CoQ-10 daily.

Echinacea: (see drug-herb interactions) has been documented to stimulate the chemicals that promote t-cell activation and antibody production. It is very effective in lessening the course of the common cold and respiratory infections when used short term. There are some conflicting studies on its use long term as well as a caution that it may briefly increase viral load. Avoid long term (7- 10 days only) use as well as use prior to viral load blood counts. During the acute onset of a cold, 2 to 4 cups of strong echinacea tea or 3 capsules 3 times daily can help limit the course of the illness.

Fiber: helps in regulating lipid levels, removes toxins and provides bulk for healthy bowel habits. The colon requires bulk for it to achieve healthy movement. Optimal intake of fiber is about 25-30 grams per day. The ideal combination of soluble fiber (psyllium husk) and insoluble fiber (flax oil, fiber) helps to absorb water and toxins and adds roughage to bulk up stool and sweep away built up debris in the intestinal tract.

Foods high in fiber are fruits such as apples peaches, raspberries and tangerines. Vegetables such as acorn squash, raw broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, black-eyed peas, cooked zucchini, kidney beans and lima beans. Also cooked whole- grain cereal, cold (All-Bran, Total, Bran Flakes), whole-grain cereal, hot (oatmeal, Wheatena) and whole-wheat or 7-grain bread.

Powdered psyllium is a quality source of supplemental fiber. Be sure to drink plenty of water, otherwise the fiber will form an obstructing mass, adding to your condition. Start with one rounded tablespoon of the powder stirred well into a glass of water or diluted juice.

Fish Oil: is known for being rich in unsaturated fatty acids and provides rich OMEGA-3 fatty acids, (Pure EPA 360mg/DHA 240mg). Fish Oils are made from natural marine lipid concentrate and may help reduce or inhibit risk factors involved in cardiovascular disease, as well as inflammatory and immune disorders. Long term use of fish oil shelp prevent aging skin, menopausal symptoms, promote better circulation, lower cholesterol, prevent blood clots, reduce heart related risk, and the pain of arthritis. Omega-3 and polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish and deep sea fish oil help to protect against heart and blood vessel disease. Natural, essential fatty acids are essential to normal human cell and tissue growth and maintenance. If not found regularly in the diet, the diet must be supplemented. These fatty acids are especially abundant in brain cells, nerve relay stations (synapses), visual receptors (retinas), adrenal glands, and sex glands. The most biologically active tissues in the body. Take. 1000mg of fish oil in the morning and 1,000 mg in the evening.

Flaxseed oil: is derived from the seeds of the flax plant. Flaxseed oil and flaxseed contain substances that promote good health and is used as a nutritional supplement. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid, which appears to be beneficial for heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, cholesterol and a variety of other health conditions. Flaxseed also contains a group of chemicals called lignans that may play a role in the prevention of cancer. Take 1,000 mg of flaxseed oil in the morning and 1,000 mg in the evening.

Ginger: is helpful in tea or herb form for controlling nausea and vomiting. An anti-inflammatory, ginger has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory. Taking 6–50 grams of fresh or powdered ginger per day indicated that ginger might be helpful. Suggested Dosage: 0.5 to 1 mg of powdered ginger daily

Glutamine: is one of the most abundant amino acids in our bodies, found in the gastrointestinal tract. This amino acid is compromised when the immune function is low. Studies have shown that Glutamine is one of the best amino acid supplements in maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal lining and helps to repair gastrointestinal damage. It can also be helpful in managing diarrhea. 1 to 2 grams of powdered glutamine may be mixed in smoothies or water.

Licorice: (Glycerrhiza) (see drug-herb interactions) also has been used as a complementary immune modulator, although it should be avoided in people with hypertension. In my experience the immune modulators work much better when combined together rather than used as singular treatments. Licorice can be consumed as a tea daily and the mushrooms may be included in food preparation or taken in liquid tincture form for a more consistent higher dose.

Pau D'arco and Una de Gato: (Cat's Claw) are also clinically used to stimulate immune function and may be consumed in tea form daily or liquid tincture either during acute illness or as a preventative measure.

Probiotics: (Acidophilus, Bifidus, lactobacillus spirogenes) help to maintain balance of good and dangerous bacteria and compete for the food the dangerous bacteria need to grow and cause us problems. Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidus may be found in yogurt with active culture or in supplements and can be consumed freely without known side effects. It should be refrigerated to maximize shelf life. Patients on antibiotic therapy, diagnosed with thrush, diarrhea or constipation should consider taking probiotics 2 capsules 3 times daily with meals. For thrush a capsule can also be opened in some water and used daily as a mouth rinse.

Vitamins A, C and the B vitamins increase the immune function. Minerals such as Selenium help to stimulate immune function and fight infection, while Zinc enhances the immune system and assists in wound healing.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Herb-drug interactions are very common. Some herbal medicines may cancel the effect of a prescription drug, others may reduce it, or even exaggerate it. If you are on HIV medication or medications for associated symptoms or disorders, consider the information below:

Dong Quai: taken for menopausal symptom control. Do not mix Dong Quai with warfarin (anticoagulants), St John's Wort and some antibiotics such as sulfonamides, quinolones.

Echinacea: mostly taken as an immune boost to prevent cold and flu. Do not mix Echinacea with some heart medications, antifungal medications, HIV medications and anti-anxiety medications.

Ephedra: A powerful decongestant. Contains ephedrine, which can open up bronchial passages. It's controversial because it's a powerful stimulant that can raise blood pressure, cause insomnia and high blood pressure. Do not mix with heart medications or if you are being treated for high blood pressure, glaucoma or thyroid problems.

Feverfew: taken to reduce the severity of migraines. Do not take with other migraine medications, as, it may raise heart rate and blood pressure. Feverfew has the potential to react with warfarin anti- coagulants, increasing the thinning of blood.

Ginkgo: increases blood flow and circulation throughout the body, can also help improve memory. May interact with anti-coagulant medications such as Aspirin, Coumadin, heparin and warfarin, causing the blood to thin too much, and provoking a serious bleeding disorder. A recent report in the New England Journal of Medicine describes a case of a man who'd been taking Aspirin to prevent a heart attack and had spontaneous bleeding into the eye from the iris within a week of taking a daily dose of ginkgo. Should not be taken with HIV medications.

Garlic: is thought to help lower cholesterol and prevent the formation of blood clots that could lead to heart attacks. Garlic capsules may increase blood thinning if you are already on anti- coagulants. Do not take with diabetes medication because it may cause a decrease in blood sugars. Use caution with HIV medications.

Ginseng: used to help reduce stress, boost energy and improve stamina, and may also help lower cholesterol. Can cause nervousness and excitation, and overuse can lead to headaches, insomnia and heart palpitations. Can increase blood pressure. Should not be used if you are taking prescriptions for high blood pressure or Coumadin.

Hawthorn: claimed to be effective in helping reduce angina attacks by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Should not be taken digoxin, a heart medication. The mix may lower heart rate too much.

Kava: is used to treat anxiety. It's also used to relieve insomnia and nervousness. Do not take Kava if you have a history of liver problems. Also do not mix with antidepressants, sedatives, and do not mix Kava with alcohol.

Licorice: used to treat coughs, colds and peptic ulcers. High doses can lead to increased blood pressure, water retention and potassium loss. Do not use with diuretics or digoxin because it could lead to further loss of potassium, essential for heart function.

St. John's wort: a natural anti-depressant for mild to moderate depression. Do not take with other anti-depressants, HIV medications, oral contraceptives, some heart/blood thinning medications and Tamoxifen (a cancer drug).

Valerian: a mild sedative with hypnotic effects, used to promote sleep, Should not be taken with alcohol or Valium.

Safe Sex Tips

1. Use latex condom for vaginal and anal intercourse. Use water-based lubricant (K-Y, Astroglide, and Probe); oil-containing products (Crisco, Vaseline, baby oil, lotion, and whipped cream) can destroy latex. A drop of lube inside the condom may increase sensitivity. Don't use saliva as a lubricant.

2. Other contraceptive devices do not protect against AIDS. Product containing nonoxyno1-9 (a spermicide) can kill HIV and may provide extra protection, but should not be relied on alone. Some studies show that nonoxyno1-9 can cause genital irritation that may promote HIV infection, especially with very frequent intercourse. The effects of ingesting nonoxyno1-9 are unstudied.

3. Blood-to-blood contact is the most direct route of HIV transmission. Sharing needles (for drug steroids piercing or tattooing) razors or any implement that draws blood is dangerous since blood may be left on used implements. Clean needles by rinsing several times with bleach then with water. Avoid contact with blood in s/m scenes. Whips or knives that break the skin should not be used on another person until disinfected with bleach or a cleaning solution.

4. Use an unlubricated condom for oral sex if a man will come in your mouth. For oral sex on a woman or oral-anal sex (rimming) use a dental dam (latex square) a condom or latex glove cut to produce a flat sheet or non-microwaveable food wrap. Rinse powder off dams before use. Use all barrier only once and only on one person.

5. Oral sex on a man without ejaculation or on a non-menstruating woman is thought to be low risk activity. There is a risk that HIV could enter through small cuts of opening in the mouth gums of throat. Avoid brushing your teeth two hours before or after oral sex to minimize abrasions.

6. If you share sex toys like dildos or vibrators put on a fresh condom for each user (and when going from anus to vagina) or guard bleach alcohol or soap and water.

7. Use latex gloves for "finger penetration" or fisting to guard the wearer against infection through cuts on the hand or arm and to guard the partner against injury from fingernails.

8. Touching and kissing are safe. It is safe to get semen vaginal fluid or urine on unbroken skin. No AIDS cases have been traced to kissing, including deep (French) kissing.

9. Precautions against HIV infection can protect you from other sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, yeast infections, amoebiasis, and hepatitis B.

10. Preventing other STDs can in turn minimize your chances of getting HIV infection, since many STDs cause sores in the genital or anal area or around the mouth which can provide a path for HIV transmission.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) in the world. More than 100 different types of HPV exist, most of which are harmless. About 30 types are spread through sexual contact. Some types of HPV cause genital warts—single or multiple bumps that appear in the genital areas of men and women including the vagina, cervix, vulva (area outside of the vagina), penis, and rectum. Many people infected with HPV have no symptoms. (25).

There are high-risk and low-risk types of HPV. High-risk HPV may cause abnormal Pap smear results, and could lead to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, or penis. Low-risk HPV also may cause abnormal Pap results or genital warts. (26).

Health experts estimate there are more cases of genital HPV infection than any other STI in the United States. According to the American Social Health Association, approximately 5.5 million new cases of sexually transmitted HPV infections are reported every year. At least 20 million people in this country are already infected. (25, 26).

All types of HPV can cause mild Pap test abnormalities which do not have serious consequences. Approximately 10 of the 30 identified genital HPV types can lead, in rare cases, to development of cervical cancer. Specifically, HPV 16 and HPV 18 have been found in 90% of cases of cervical cancer. Research has shown that for most women (90 percent), cervical HPV infection becomes undetectable within two years. Although only a small proportion of women have persistent infection, persistent infection with "high-risk" types of HPV is the main risk factor for cervical cancer.

Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia is also called "CIN." Sometimes it may be called cervical dysplasia. CIN means that there is a change in the cells on the surface of the cervix. The cervix is the bottom part of the uterus. With CIN normal cells are replaced with cells that are not normal (abnormal). Over time, it is possible for these abnormal cells to turn into cancer. (3,4).

Any woman can have CIN. CIN itself is not cancer. But it can turn into cancer of the cervix. Following are the 3 types of CIN:

CIN I (1). This is also called mild dysplasia.
CIN II (2). This is also called moderate dysplasia.
CIN III (3). This is also called severe dysplasia.

It is not known for sure what causes CIN but it may be caused by a virus that is spread during sex. The virus that causes venereal warts ("HPV") is thought to play a role in many cases of CIN and cervical cancer. You may be more likely to get CIN if you have many sex partners or if your partner has many sex partners.

The following may put you at a higher risk of having CIN.

*Less than 20 years of age at time of first sex.
*Having a sexually transmitted disease (STD), like HPV, herpes, or cytomegalovirus (CMV).
*A Pap smear test that is not normal.
*Cigarette smoking.

A Pap test can detect pre-cancerous and cancerous cells on the cervix. Regular Pap testing and careful medical follow-up, with treatment if necessary, can help ensure that pre-cancerous changes in the cervix caused by HPV infection do not develop into life threatening cervical cancer. The Pap test used in U.S. cervical cancer screening programs is responsible for greatly reducing deaths from cervical cancer. For 2004, the American Cancer Society estimates that about 10,520 women will develop invasive cervical cancer and about 3,900 women will die from this disease. Most women who develop invasive cervical cancer have not had regular cervical cancer screening. (26-29)

Although there is currently no medical cure for papillomavirus infection, the lesions and warts these viruses cause can be treated. Methods commonly used to treat lesions include cryosurgery (freezing that destroys tissue), LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure, the removal of tissue using a hot wire loop), and conventional surgery. Similar treatments may be used for external genital warts. In addition, some drugs may be used to treat external genital warts. More information about treatment for genital warts can be found in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002. Copies of the guidelines are available at http://www.cdc.gov/STD/treatment

Alternative Medicine

A study of the clinical efficacy of green tea extracts (polyphenon E; poly E and (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate [EGCG]) delivered in a form of ointment or capsule in patients with human papilloma virus (HPV) infected cervical lesions. Fifty-one patients with cervical lesions (chronic cervicitis, mild dysplasia, moderate dysplasia and severe dysplasia) were divided into four groups, as compared with 39 untreated patients as a control. Poly E ointment was applied locally to 27 patients twice a week. For oral delivery, a 200 mg of poly E or EGCG capsule was taken orally every day for eight to 12 weeks. In the study, 20 out of 27 patients (74%) under poly E ointment therapy showed a response. Six out of eight patients under poly E ointment plus poly E capsule therapy (75%) showed a response, and three out of six patients (50%) under poly E capsule therapy showed a response. Six out of 10 patients (60%) under EGCG capsule therapy showed a response. (34).

Overall, a 69% response rate (35/ 51) was noted for treatment with green tea extracts, as compared with a 10% response rate (4/39) in untreated controls (P<0.05). Thus, the data collected here demonstrated that green tea extracts in a form of ointment and capsule are effective for treating cervical lesions, suggesting that green tea extracts can be a potential therapy regimen for patients with HPV infected cervical lesions. (34).

Women who consume low amounts of foods rich in vitamin C, beta carotene and folic acid have a higher incidence of CIN and HPV (14). A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes (beans) will provide generous amounts of these nutrients.

Antioxidants seem to reduce the risk of CIN (8) and cancer (21). Low levels of vitamin A (16), vitamin C (15,16) and vitamin E (2,13) are associated with a greater risk of CIN and possibly cervical cancer. The amount of antioxidants in a daily multivitamin are reasonable and safe.

Copper levels tend to be higher in women with CIN (9) or gynecologic tumors (3). It may be wise to avoid taking copper supplements if dealing with CIN.

Folic acid levels tend to be lower in women with dysplasia (7,10) and HPV (4). Folic acid may help prevent CIN but does not appear to eradicate existing CIN (24). Very high doses of folic acid have been used in treatment but the amounts present in a B-complex supplement or a daily multivitamin are reasonable for preventive purposes.

Pyridoxine (B6) levels tend to be low in cervical cancer (20). It is interesting that birth control pills can lower B6 levels (1,17) and birth control pills also seem to be a risk factor for CIN (4,5) which can progress to cervical cancer if left untreated. Taking vitamin B6 in a daily multivitamin or B-complex supplement may be beneficial, particularly if using birth control pills.

Riboflavin (B2) levels tend to be low in women with CIN (16). Riboflavin vaginal suppositories have actually been shown to cause regression of CIN (6).

Selenium levels tend to be lower in women with cervical cancer (2). Selenium has been shown to reduce the incidence of experimentally induced cervical cancer in laboratory animals (12). A dose of 200 micrograms daily of selenium is reasonable and safe (18). This amount of selenium is often available in a daily multivitamin.

Zinc levels tend to be lower in women with CIN (9) or gynecologic tumors (3). Taking 15 - 30 milligrams of zinc daily in a multivitamin is reasonable.

STD information and referrals to STD Clinics
CDC-INFO
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A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypoglycemia

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Western Medicine

Hypoglycemia is abnormally low levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. A low blood glucose level can occur when your blood glucose drops below a certain level (usually less than 4 mmol/L).

Hypoglycemia literally means "low blood sugar" and is often mistaken for a disease when it is actually a symptom. Normally, the body maintains the levels of sugar in the blood within a range of about 70 to 110 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. In hypoglycemia, the sugar levels in the blood become too low. In diabetes mellitus, the sugar levels in the blood become too high, a condition called hyperglycemia. Although high levels of sugar in the blood characterize diabetes, many people with diabetes periodically experience hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is uncommon among people without diabetes.

Low levels of sugar in the blood interfere with the function of many organ systems. The brain is particularly sensitive to low sugar levels, because sugar is the brain's major energy source. If the sugar levels in the blood fall far below their usual range, the brain responds by stimulating the adrenal glands to release epinephrine (adrenaline), the pancreas to release glucagon, and the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, all of which cause the liver to release sugar into the blood.

Ingested sugars and carbohydrates trigger a release of the hormone insulin from the pancreas. Insulin helps the body turn sugars into energy and stored fats. In some people, the amount of insulin released is too high for the amount of carbohydrates ingested, resulting in too much sugar being burned up too quickly. A net loss of blood sugar results. In hypoglycemia attacks, there is too much insulin and not enough blood sugar, causing fatigue, weakness, loss of consciousness, and even death.

There are three general types of hypoglycemia. Two of them are rare organic forms involving the pancreas. The third and most common form is called functional hypoglycemia (FH) and is usually caused by an inadequate diet too high in sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Hypoglycemia may be better described as carbohydrate intolerance: the body is unable to absorb certain carbohydrate loads effectively without adverse consequences. Different people react differently to ingested sugars and starches, with some individuals having a higher tolerance level than others.

The kidneys involve the regulation of electrolyte balance of sodium and potassium, necessary for the circulation of bio electrical energy throughout the body. The kidney involves the secretion of glucocorticoid hormone, cortisol, from the adrenal cortex. Kidneys involving adrenaline secretions of the adrenal medula, also involve other endocrine functions including the pituitary and thyroid glands. The prominent hormone-regulating role played by the adrenals is important in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system.

Causes

Drugs: Most cases of hypoglycemia occur in people with diabetes and are caused by the insulin or other drugs. They tend to lower the levels of sugar in their blood. People with diabetes sometimes call the hypoglycemia that can occur after taking insulin an "insulin reaction" or "weak or shaky." Insulin reactions are more common when intense efforts are made to keep the sugar levels in the blood as close to normal as possible. People who are losing weight or who develop kidney failure are more likely to have hypoglycemia. Older people are more susceptible than younger people to hypoglycemia resulting from sulfonylurea drugs.

Many drugs other than those for diabetes, most notably Pentamidine, used to treat a form of pneumonia that occurs most seen in HIV, and quinine, used to treat muscle cramps, can cause hypoglycemia. An uncommon type of drug-related hypoglycemia sometimes occurs in people with Mόnchausen syndrome, who secretly take insulin or other drugs as part of their attention-seeking behavior

Fasting: In fasting hypoglycemia, the body is not able to maintain adequate levels of sugar in the blood after a period without food. Prolonged fasting and prolonged strenuous exercise, even after a period of fasting, are unlikely to cause hypoglycemia in otherwise healthy people, but they can do so occasionally.

There are several diseases or conditions that can cause fasting hypoglycemia. In people who drink heavily without eating, alcohol can block the release of stored sugar from the liver. In people with liver disease, such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, or cancer, the liver may not store sufficient sugar. Infants and children who have an abnormality of the enzyme systems that control sugar use also may have fasting hypoglycemia.

Reaction to Eating: Hypoglycemia can occur as a reaction to eating, usually carbohydrates. The body's response to food is excessive, so the body produces more insulin than is needed.

After certain types of stomach surgery, such as removal of part of the stomach, sugars are absorbed very quickly, stimulating excess insulin production. Problems with digestion of some sugars (fructose and galactose) and amino acids (leucine) may also cause reactive hypoglycemia. An uncommon form of reactive hypoglycemia can occur after drinking alcohol in combination with sugar (for example, a gin and tonic).

Other Causes: Some causes of hypoglycemia seem to have no specific relation to food, but fasting or vigorous exercise can trigger or worsen an episode of hypoglycemia. Rarely, a tumor in the pancreas can produce large amounts of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia. In some people, an autoimmune disorder lowers sugar levels in the blood by changing insulin secretion or by some other means. Disorders that lower hormone production by the pituitary and adrenal glands (most notably Addison's disease) can cause hypoglycemia. Certain severe diseases, such as kidney or heart failure, cancer, and shock, may also cause hypoglycemia, particularly in a person who is also being treated for diabetes. Hypoglycemia is associated with anxiousness, and seen in asthmatics, in fact, most all asthmatics are hypogylcemic though not all hypoglycemics are asthmatic.

Alternative Therapies

Hypoglycemia: How to treat low blood glucose
(As recommended by the American Diabetes Association)

Check your blood glucose. If you do not have your meter with you treat the symptoms anyway. It is better to be safe. Eat or drink a form of sugar such as:

*3 B-D Glucose Tablets or 5 Dextrose Tablets

*6 Life Savers

*3/4 cup of juice or regular soda

*1 tablespoon of honey.

Wait 10 to 15 minutes, then test your blood glucose again.

Stay active: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars, promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness. Talk to your doctor about Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang can be seen as frequent cloudy urination, five center heat sensation, thirsty, cold feeling, aversion to cold, weak lower back and knees, impotence, amenorrhea, night sweat, spontaneous sweat, dry/dull complexion. In TCM, the concept of the `kidney', as the home of the `ancestral Qi' or our inherent constitution, is the root of yin and yang for the entire body.

Traditional Chines Medicine Patterns

Liver Qi Stagnation:Depression, fullness of abdomen, pain and a tight feeling in the chest, irregular menstruation. Reddish tongue with whitish fur, tight and thready pulse. Treatment principle: Sooth depressed Liver Qi to relieve emotional depression.

Acupuncture treatment: Points: G B 24, Liv 14, BL19, GB 34, St 36, St 41, Ren 4, Ren 17

Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San

Deficiency of liver and kidney: Shortness of breath, bad dreams, depression, indigestion, fatigue, overweight, dizziness, blurred vision, tinnitus, tongue with white fur, thready and weak pulse.

Treatment principle: Tonify and nourish the liver and kidney.

Acupuncture Treatment: Points: Pc 6, H t 7, Sp 6, UB 20, UB 23, Lv 3, St 10, Sp 4.