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                                              Get Healing Sleep

If you have problems getting to sleepand/or staying asleep, the following may improve your sleep outcomes:

  • meditate before bedtime to calm your mind and body
  • avoid caffeine after midday each day
  • reduce light like alarm clocks
  • avoid alcohol, as it produces a light, fragmented sleep
  • use earplugs if you are bothered by noises while sleeping
  • sleep only as much as you need to feel refreshed but no more
  • wake up at the same time every day weekday or weekend this will help to establish regular sleep patterns
  • avoid daytime napping if you have trouble sleeping at night. Some people however find a powernap of 20-30 minutes mid afternoon helpful.

If these ideas do not work, talk to your practitioner, there may be a herb or nutrient that can produce a better sleep.

 


 

 

                                       Frankincense and Myrrh by Rose Claiden

Until the day breaks,

And the shadows flee away,

I will get me to the mountain of Myrrh,

And to the hill of Frankincense.

( Song of Solomon  4:6 )

Which other aromatics fire the imagination as much as the legendary Frankincense and Myrrh? ( Watt, Seller 1996 : 1 )

Essential oils are the vital essence of plants, embodying their very immune system, oxygenating and cleansing the body and containing the ability to attract and repel life forms. They have been used in medicine, healing and perfumery for 1000’s of years, being aptly described as the ‘medicines of the earth’ ( Worwood ).

The haunting fragrance of Frankincense and smoky notes of Myrrh both hold special place in the ritual, sacred and medicinal use of essential oils.

Frankincense means ‘true essence’ and was prized above all others except Myrrh.

In ancient Alexandria, ‘no vigilance was sufficient to guard the factories’. Syria was described as being a country entirely scented and exhaling an odour marvellously sweet. Great golden dishes were filled to the brim with Myrrh and Frankincense and carried by a cortege of young boys while the guests were sprinkled with holy water

( Watt/ Seller ).

‘Franc’ is also from the old French meaning free, pure and abundant and the Latin ‘incensum’ means to kindle. Incense was seen, from ancient times, as a way of purifying subtle bodies and communing with the Divine.

Frankincense comes from the resin of a scrubby tree in the arid regions of Arabia and East Africa and is a substance that has been clamoured over for medicinal and sacred reasons. Frankincense and Myrrh are both extracted in the hot season when the gum flows freely which the Roman’s called the ‘Dog Days’ and were associated with Osiris. Frankincense was considered the very blood of the tree and Myrrh the tears.

Recent scientific research is now confirming what the ancients knew and practiced, that aromatic plants have potent effects on our emotional wellbeing and physical health.

Frankincense ( Olibanum ) is warm, balsamic, spicy, heating, drying and pitta increasing. The taste is bitter, pungent, astringent and sweet. Its main healing properties include being rejuvenative, astringent, tonic, expectorant and anti-depressive. Emotionally it encourages feelings of courage, emotional stability, protection and inspiration. It is very helpful in alleviating stress, restoring equilibrium, rejuvenating skin and in healing chest complaints such as asthma, catarrh, flue and bronchitis.

Myrrh ( Commiphora Myrrha ) is warm, earthy, heating and pitta increasing. Its taste is bitter and pungent. It is renowned for its wound healing properties and is antiseptic, antidepressant, stimulant, calmative, rejuvenative, antispasmodic and analgesic. Emotionally, it encourages peace, calm, acceptance, sympathy, courage and is associated with the wounded healer.

Myrrh and Frankincense together have been seen to embody the union of the sacred feminine and masculine. Myrrh associated with the lunar deity Isis and Frankincense with the Sun god Osiris. Like the Egyptian myth, Isis/Myrrh is associated with rebirth and resurrection and in ancient times, the mythological phoenix was said to nest in the branches of the Myrrh tree when it was dying, in order to be reborn in its nest.

 

‘A garden enclosed is my sister, my spouse, a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire with spikenard, spikenard and saffron: calamus and cinnamon, with all tree of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices’

( Solomon 4: 12, 13, 14 )

 


     
Is Quercetin a useful Treatment for Allergic Rhinitis                      


The bioflavonoid Quercetin is considered to be the most effective anti-allergic and anti-histaminic bioflavonoid known. It works by inhibiting the release of histamine by basophils and mast cells, and also inhibits the production of imflammatory leukotrienes and prostaglandins. By inhibiting the synthesis and release of histamine Quercetin greatly reduces the allergic and inflammatory responses with no reported side-effects.

Also worth considering in the treatment of Hayfever is vitamin C which can help prevent the secretion of histamine, essential fatty acids because of their significant anti-inflammatory activity, and herbs like elder and fenugreek which can reduce mucous production, garlic and horseradish which may reduce the incidence of infection and aid detoxification.

Quercetain is available in tablets, with dose of 600mg, up to 3 times daily.


Inulin

Inulin is classified as a fructan which is a class of carbohydrate, also known as a non-digestible oligosaccharide. Inulin is abundant in nature, and is the second most plentiful carbohydrate after starch. It is present in many plant species and occurs in high levels in onions, leeks, garlic, wheat, bananas, globe artichokes and chicory root where most of the commercially produced inulin comes from.

A few of the benefits of inulin include a low caloric value, its an efficient dietary fibre, safe for diabetics as it does not effect serum glucose.  Inulin is also an effective prebiotic due to its ability to stimulate bifidobaceria growth in the colon. Bifidobacteria, being a probiotic can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, stimulating components of the immune system, aiding absorption of nutrients and also the production of B vitamins.

Other than dietary sources mentioned Inulin is also available as a white powder for use as a food supplement and/or a food additive.

Zinulin is a great way of increasing your dietary fibre with the added benefit of intestinal health. Why not try some today??


the principle of competitive exclusion...

"Competitive exclusion protects us from incoming microbes. You can see it as getting onto the bus in rush hour - where the bus is full of people, you cannot get on the bus, there is just no place for you to sit down. And this is how it works in the intestine to a large extent as well.

There are so many microbes, that any microbes coming will have a very hard time trying to establish themselves there. So this means that if you happen to ingest some pathogens, they will not be able to establish themselves and you will be protected from them. When the intestine is populated with beneficial microbiota, you have to ingest very large numbers of pathogens to get ill."

-Professor Arthur Ouwehand, From the presentation 'Probiotics and Prebiotics in Human Health.'


Dietary Fibre

Dietary diet is essential for health and can only been food in plant foods, and there are two main types - soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre is often described as slippery, since it has the capacity to carry lots of water thereby forming a gel. This can help lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol, while maintaining HDL ('good') cholesterol and help constipation or the symptoms of irritable bowel. Soluble fibre is found in vegetables and fruit, and some cereals like oats and barley, psyllium, linseed, slippery elm and in dried peas, beans and lentils.  Insoluble fibre is often described as roughage.  This fibre is more resistent to digestion, and is fermented by bacteria to produce special fatty acids for the health of the gut wall. Insoluble fibre is found mostly in wholegrain foods (especially wheat bran and rice bran), the skins of fruit and vegetables

nuts and dried beans. It helps prevent constipation by producing bulky stools and speeding bowel transit time.

A combination of fibres is essential and can be achieved by including a variety of fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes in the diet.  The Australian Heart Foundation recommends 30-35g dailyfor adults.

If you would like further information on dietary fibre don't hesistate to drop in and get a sheet on Dietary fibre with daily averages and sources with values.                   


Vitamin A

Did you know that vitamin A, sometimes called retinol(from animal sources), and carotene(mainly from plant sources), counteracts night blindness, weak eyesight, builds resistance to respiratory infections by improving the health of the immune cells of the respiratory tract, keeps the outer layer of your tissues and organs healthy, promotes strong bones, healthy hair, skin, teeth and gums.

Some of the best sources are fish liver oils, carrots, green and yellow vegetables, eggs, milk and dairy products, and yellow fruits. Recommended Daily Intake for adults is 900iu for men and 700iu for women, with an upper limit of 3000iu.

With winter fast approaching and your mucous membranes being an important part of your defence against colds and flus

it may be a good idea to see if you are getting adequate amounts of this essentail nutrient.

          


Andrographis 

Andrographis, a common Indian plant is fast becoming a popular herbal remedy in Australia for the common cold and immune deficiency. It has also been also used for impaired liver function, and digestive weakness.

Andrographis is sometimes referred to as "King of the Bitters" and as the term suggests it has a bitter taste.

It is best avoided during pregnancy and with some conventional medications, so check with your herbalist if it suitable for you.  Tablets and liquid extracts are available from LIVELIFE. 


Gluten Free and Gluten Containing Foods List.

Download .doc - .pdf


Glucosamine

Cartilage exists wherever bones meet to allow the smooth movement of the joint and to cushion the area. When cartilage wears and bones rub together there is friction. And it is this friction that creates pain and inflammation. As the cartilage wears it also hardens, which may cause pain and inflammation and immobility of the joint affected. Cartilage may wear due to injury, poor posture, obesity, and abnormal stresses to a joint. More often than not it is the weight bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Any physical activity that places continual strain on a joint can cause cartilage damage.

Glucosamine is found in particularly high concentrations in the cartilage and other connective tissues. Glucosamine acts as a stimulant and precursor to the proteins that form cartilage. As we age our ability to produce glucosamine reduces, and this can cause the cartilage to lose its water holding capacity, this in turn can dry the cartilage and become less effective as a shock absorber leading to joint pain.

Glucosamine works by stimulating cartilage cells to produce proteoglycans. These are the building blocks of cartilage, and they strengthen and repair the cartilage. Glucosamine forms part of the structure of the glycosaminoglycans that are the components of cartilage joints, ligaments and tendons.

The recommended daily dose for an adult is 1500mg.


Fish or Flax?

Here at Live Life many people ask us about fish oil and flaxseed oil (also known as linseed oil), and which one they should be taking, and what are these omega- 3 things anyway?

How does fish oil work?

While more research needs to be done, it seems that the health effects of fish oil are brought about in a number of ways. One mechanism is the action of fish oil in cell membranes; another is its action in suppressing inflammation. The fatty acids that make up fish oil are called omega -3 fatty acids, and are quite low in the normal Australian diet. Much more common are omega-6 fatty acids, found in vegetable oils and substances like margarines and salad dressings. One major use of fatty acids by the body is to make cell membranes. When the body has more omega-3 oils available through a diet high in fish oil, the body's cell membranes contain more omega-3. and these cell membranes are more flexible and fluid, and less stiff.

Fatty acids are also used by the body to make prostaglandins, which are substances that cause inflammation within the body, causing conditions like arthritis. However, the prostaglandins made using fish oils are generally weaker (good prostaglandins), therefore, adding fish oil to the diet of an inflammation sufferer can decrease pain and swelling.

 

What is the difference between fish oil and flaxseed oil? 
Both fish and flax are good sources of omega-3's, and for people who will not consume fish for any reason, flax will do. Flaxseed oil is also less expensive, which can be an important consideration as well. The main difference is that flaxseed oil contains only alpha- linoleic acid (ALA), which is the parent compound from which other omega-3 fatty acids are derived. This leaves it to your body to do the conversion to the other forms it needs, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The problem is that the conversion is not always that efficient, and the body often uses the ALA for extra energy, leaving less for conversion to the other types. Fish oil, on the other hand, contains the other forms and delivers them directly to your body with no conversion necessary. Whatever form you decide to take, it might be a good idea to back it up with an extra 400IU of Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols) to prevent the fatty acids from breaking down too quickly in your body and oxidising.

 

Choosing the right oil

  • Fish oil contains 2 important fatty acids: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).
  • Fish rich in EPA and DHA include kippers, mackerel, pilchards, Atlantic salmon, trout, blue grenadier, herring, sardines, tuna, yellowtail and perch.
  • Flaxseed oil, spinach and walnuts are good sources of alpha- linolenic acid, which can be converted by the body into EPA.
  • When selecting a fish oil supplement for heart health, arthritis or inflammation, choose one that contains high levels of EPA.
  • For cognitive function, dementia, mood swings or for use in pregnancy, choose a fish oil with high levels of DHA, usually a tuna oil.
  • If you are taking an oil as a source of vitamins A and D, make sure you choose a fish liver oil, such as cod liver oil.
  • When taking an oil supplement, it's a good idea to also take vitamin E to act as an antioxidant.

References

"Fish Oil", Options magazine, Feb-March 2006, issue 9.

http://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/flaxoil.htm#difference

Article by Nicky Allison


Body Mass Index

 

The Body mass Index (BMI) is a method used to determine whether a person's weight is in the correct range for their height.

So,

  • Less than 20 is considered to be underweight .
  • 20-25 is considered to be normal .
  • 26-30 is considered to be overweight .
  • Over 30 is considered to be obese .

 

This is done by dividing the weight in kilograms by height in centimetres squared.

For example, when a woman weighs 65 kg and her height is 1.68m, her BMI is calculated by dividing 65 by 1.7 x 1.7 (2.89), which equals 22.50. Her BMI is 23, which is considered to be normal.


Hair Mineral Analysis - Article by Jenny Lea.

Available through the Live Life naturopaths!

What is Hair Mineral Analysis ?

Hair tissue mineral analysis is an analytical test which measures the mineral content of the hair. It is regarded by many naturopaths, nutritional therapists and doctors to be one of the most valuable screening tools available in holistic health care.

Why test for minerals?

 

Minerals are involved in almost every metabolic process in the body, so they are essential for growth, healing, vitality and wellbeing. They provide structural support in bones and teeth, and they maintain the body's acid-base balance, water balance, nerve conduction, muscle contractions and enzyme functions.

In theory, we should be able to get adequate minerals from a balanced diet, however this is rarely possible in the modern world. Mineral content of foods are reduced due to depleted soils, modern farming techniques and chemicals. Environmental toxins, chemical food additives and stress also adversely affect our nutritional status. For these reasons monitoring of our nutrient levels is becoming increasingly important.

Hair mineral analysis also tests for toxic metal accumulations in the body .

Excess metals such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury may interfere with normal vitamin and mineral balance and can contribute to many metabolic disorders and symptoms including fatigue, infections, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and diabetes. For example, neurological dysfunction can be caused from excess lead, aluminum or mercury in the body, hypertension can result from excess cadmium, anaemia and gout can result from lead toxicity.

While routine blood tests cannot usually detect chronic heavy metal poisoning, hair analysis is an accurate way of detecting toxic metals in the body, so can often shed light on the cause of chronic health conditions.

  

Minerals tested: Boron, barium, bismuth, calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, germanium, iron, lithium, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, phosphorus, platinum, potassium, rubidium, selenium, sodium, sulphur, strontium, tin, titanium, thallium, tungsten, vanadium, zirconium, zinc.

Toxic Metals tested : aluminum, antimony, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, lead, mercury, uranium

How is the testing done

A small hair sample is taken from the newest hair growth at the nape of the neck, and sent to a Melbourne or Sydney laboratory for analysis, where it goes through a series of chemical testing procedures. The levels of minerals and metals are analysed and graphed. A detailed report is then supplied to the patient, via a consultation with their health practitioner. This highlights significant excesses / deficiencies, including the medical implications of these findings and personalised nutritional recommendations to help correct any imbalances found.

HAIR / MINERAL ANALYSIS IS A GOOD INVESTMENT IN YOUR HEALTH!

Many people take nutritional supplements, often expensive ones, without actually knowing for sure if they are necessary. Inappropriate use of supplements can sometimes actually become toxic to the body, or upset the balance of other nutrients. The knowledge gained from this testing, can therefore ensure that any supplements taken are appropriate, and contribute to improved health for that person.

Article by Jenny Lea

For more information please feel free to contact

the qualified practitioners at Live Life


The Blood Type Diet - Article by Jenny Lea.

The blood type diet revolves around the presence of ‘lectins’ in food, compounds that may cause good or bad reactions in people according to their blood type. Some foods are beneficial to people of a certain blood type, while others are indifferent or possibly damaging. For example, the incorrect diet can cause red blood cells to stick together and hinder circulation. Adhering to an appropriate diet for your blood type can therefore help you along the way to optimal health. Many people on the blood type diet have found remarkable improvements to a wide range of health conditions such as digestive problems, chronic tiredness, allergies, skin problems, inability to lose weight etc

What does an appointment involve?

The blood type test is a simple one; a drop of blood is taken from your finger and then tested to ascertain which blood group you are. Eating guidelines are then given, according to which blood group you are. The appointment takes 15 minutes, and costs $25

Contact Live Life to book your appointment with one of our qualified naturopaths

JENNY'S DETAILS

appointments & enquiries: 03 6223 7388

email enquiries


Want to know more about the glycaemic index and carbohydrate metabolism check out this site...

www.glycaemicindex.com


USEFUL WEBSITES FOR PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM CANCER

www.kingston.org.au/cancer
www.ciss.org.au
www.cancersupportwa.org.au
www.getandstaywell.com

DEALING WITH STRESS NATURALLY by Jenny Lea – Naturopath

A certain amount of stress in our lives can be a positive thing, motivating us and inspiring us to move ahead. However too much stress on an ongoing basis can have many negative effects, both physical and psychological. These may include anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, headaches, neck or back aches, lowered libido, digestive problems eg diarrhea, constipation, poor appetite or overeating.

Everyone has a different tolerance to stress. Your genetic makeup, diet, environment, and lifestyle all influence how you react to stress. Some people cope with far less stress than others, and it is important to develop an awareness of your limitations, and work within those. Balancing work with recreation and relaxation is important. Make time in the week for activities that will help restore your body and mind eg yoga, meditation, massage, reading, walking, spending time with friends and family, gardening etc. Regular moderate daily exercise is also important.

Supporting your body with a healthy diet will help increase your tolerance to stress. The diet should be high in whole grains, fruit and vegetables, and protein foods (fish, chicken, eggs, legumes, soy foods, nuts, seeds, yogurt) This will help ensure sufficient vitamins B and C in the diet which can be depleted in times of stress. Essential fatty acids, such as the Omega 3’s found in oily fish, flaxseed, and other vegetable oils and seeds are also important for a healthy nervous system. Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, tobacco and alcohol, as well as refined, sugary and fatty foods which will all further deplete the nervous system and energy levels.

There are various excellent supplements available to help support your body in times of stress. A high dose vitamin B formula is highly beneficial. Magnesium supplements (best combined with calcium) also can help restore the nervous system and aid in muscle relaxation. There are also some great herbs for dealing with anxiety, insomnia and nervous tension including valerian, passionflower, skullcap, St Johns wort and hops. Other herbs such as oats, withania (Indian ginseng) and Siberian ginseng, act as tonics for depleted adrenal glands and nervous system, helping the body to restore, and increasing energy levels. Flower essences, such as the Bach Flowers and the Australian Bush Flowers, are fantastic for addressing emotional states, such as anxiety, worry, fear, grief, depression, tiredness and irritability.

A naturopath can make up an personalised herbal tonic or flower essence, based on your individual needs, as well as make recommendations regarding diet and lifestyle that will help you minimise the effects of stress in your life. They can also help address underlying causes of stress, which may include hormonal imbalances, hypoglycemia, allergies, candida, environmental toxins and negative thought patterns.

JENNY'S DETAILS


MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE - Sharon Campbell

WHAT IS MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage or MLD is a form of massage that seeks to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid in the body. It was developed by a German doctor over 100 years ago, and is used extensively in the health care system in Germany. In Australia, it is increasing in popularity for use in lymphedema treatment.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
By using movements that mimic the contraction of the musculoskeletal system, MLD stimulates the movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels of the body.

Our lymph system has two main functions: an immune function, which produces antibodies to fight foreign matter in our bodies, and a waste removal function, which removes waste products in our system.

When our immune system is overloaded, we suffer from many complaints including recurring coughs and colds, tiredness, or a decreased ability to heal from cuts and sores. When our immune system is overloaded for a long period of time, the opportunity for degenerative disease increases.

When waste products are not efficiently removed from the body, they may build up in areas, forcing the body to eliminate them in other ways, e.g. through the skin. Skin rashes, acne or eczema may be the result.

In some instances of surgery, lymphatic tissue, usually lymphatic nodes, are removed. This typically happens in mastectomy surgery, where lymph nodes under the arm are also removed. This is usually done as a safe guard against cancerous cells spreading to the lymph system. In these cases, lymphedema can develop, resulting in a fluid swelling in the arms.

MLD can help in situations where lymph flow has been obstructed, or when general immunity is low.

WHO SHOULD HAVE MLD?
There are many people who would benefit from an MLD treatment. The following conditions may be helped with an MLD treatment, or a series of treatments:

· Lymphedema
· Chronic fatigue syndrome
· Edema due to sports injuries, allergic reactions, or burns
· General low immunity complaints, e.g. recurring colds and ‘flu, sinusitis
· Decreased muscular activity due to injury or illness
· Chronic acne caused from lymph blockage

ARE THERE ANY REASONS YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE MLD?
When trying any new form of therapy, you should check with your doctor first. There are some conditions where MLD is not appropriate, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), and cardiac edema.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST, AND HOW LONG IS A TREATMENT?
An MLD treatment will cost $50. Depending on your private health insurance cover, some or all of this cost may be claimed. Check if your health fund covers remedial massage.

A treatment usually lasts 1-1½ hours, depending on the area requiring treatment.



INFUSION OR DECOCTION - THAT IS THE QUESTION

A very effective way of extracting the properties of herbs is by infusion.

So boil some water and then steep the herb in the water for between 5-10 minutes, depending on the strength required, the longer the stronger.

This is the ideal method for leaves and flowers, however for harder plant parts like roots, bark and berries the preferred method is decoction, so we need to simmer the herb for between 5-15 minutes. The ‘tea’ that remains can then be drunk 2-3 times a day for a medicinal effect, or whenever for pleasure.

At Live Life we have a range of local organic herbs for tea making, from BRONZEWING, as well as imported and interstate for SOUTHERN LIGHT. Some of our herbs include Meadowsweet, Chamomile, Cats Claw, Passionflower, Mugwort, and Peppermint.


CHINESE AND AYURVEDIC MEDICINE - Iain Maclean

Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal medicines have been popular in the west for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

One herb in particular has been shown to have a wide range of use and has enjoyed wide popularity: Zizyphus spinosa, Da Zao, or Chinese date seed, member of the Rhamnaceae family, is primarily used for: anxiety, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, irritability and palpitations and may help for these conditions.

There have been a number of clinical trials and studies on Zizyphus showing significant improvement in the above conditions. Check with your Herbalist or Naturopath to see if this herb is suitable for you.

Another herb that is becoming very popular with the prescribing Herbalist or Naturopath, and now appearing on the retail market is Ashwaghanda, also known as Winter Cherry or “Indian Ginseng”. Botanically known as Withania somnifera, and often referred to as Withania. It is a member of the Solanaceae family and the root is the part used medicinally.

Withania has a tonic action, with a slight sedative aspect, so it may be used for nervous exhaustion especially due to stress, anaemia, convalescence after acute illness or extreme stress. Certainly an herb to consider in this day and age. Check with your Herbalist or Naturopath, or any health professional appropriately trained in Herbal Medicine so see if this herb is suitable for you.

References available upon request.

IAIN'S DETAILS

 
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