The Better living with herbs and natural health
Dec, 2017
Avoid that January Hangover Borage for Adrenal Fatigue Essential Oils for Insomnia Skeptical about Homeopathy Stay healthy with Colloidal Silver
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How to Avoid Holiday Fatigue
A
s I write this I’m listening to my son play beautiful Publisher’s Note music on the piano. I think about the stresses of life and how the Christmas season can be a joyful yet often stressful time too. Perhaps it brings up memories of the past or there is tension with family members or finances as we strive to create those special moments. Cramming too much into a busy schedule can lead to adrenal fatigue or exhaustion, which is the theme for this issue. There are several natural remedies that have a counter effect that help heal and prevent the adrenal glands from getting too stressed. Sometimes we feel that we have to be on the go and meet so many commitments. Knowing how to look after yourself is an important first step to stay healthy. Taking healthy fatty acids such as those supplied by Borage oil, the Herb of the Month, can have a great effect. When the adrenal glands are fatigued, this can affect women’s conditions as well so it’s particularly important for women to keep the adrenals balanced
as it can affect hormones. This in turn can also affect the thyroid, leading to a hyper or hypo-active thyroid gland. So start with good nutrition, ensure enough rest and a balanced lifestyle to keep the adrenal glands. Drink less coffee or products with caffeine such as green tea. Even too much green tea is not good for the body. Essential oils are a wonderful way to ease stress and calm the body so you can get enough rest. Take time out for yourself, listen to beautiful piano music if you can. All of this aids in a balanced healthier body. Then you will enjoy the festive season even more and be able to stay healthy and happy. By the time you get to the New Year you won’t be going backwards trying to undo the damage you wrought on your body. Instead you will be going forwards and have a jump start on everyone else who is suddenly hitting the gym hard. Sincerely
Marilyn Zink
What is Nature’s Most Potent Aphrodisiac? Can Herbs Make You Skinny? What are the Best Herbs for Colds and Flu?
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Herbal Collective Dec,’17
Contents The Theme: Preventing and treating adrenal fatigue during the holiday season
Columns and Departments In the Kitchen Chocolate truffles, candied pecans..............11
Preventing and treating cold and flu.............4 Herb of the Month Adrenal fatigure during the holidays.............6 Borage is effective for adrenal fatigue........10 Avoid that January hangover...........................7 Borage oil for adrenal fatigue........................10
Features A new model for client care..............................8 Stay healthy with colloidal silver...................12 Skeptical about homeopathy.........................14 Essential oils for insomnia...............................15 Create an herbal Christmas.............................16 Mental health for men......................................18
See page 8
See page 11
The Herbal Collective published by Pro Write Publishing Publisher/Editor - Marilyn Zink Contact: 250-729-1593 info@herbalcollective.ca, www.herbalcollective.ca Contributors
Olena Gill, John Stewart, Colin Gillies, Jiries Rabba The Herbal Collective is published every month by Pro Write Publishing and distributed through social media, various platforms and the Herbal Collective blog and email list. Advertising deadline is around the 21 of every month. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the editor. Different viewpoints are welcome. All editorial material is copyrighted. Any medical advice is given solely for information purposes only and no responsibility is assumed on the publisher’s part. Copyright © 2017
Contact These Sponsors for Natural Health Solutions Olena Gill, www.indigmedicine.com.....................................4 Salvestrol, www.salvestrolbook.com....................................5 Ferlow Botanicals. www..ferlowbotanicals.com................5 Hedd Wyn, ............www.heddwynessentials.com.............7 Edible Island, www.edibleisland.ca......................................11 Healing Natural Oils...................................................................12 www.biophysica.com................................................................12 Colin Gillies, www.colingillieshomeopath.com ..............15 Herbal Collective, Dec,’17 3
Preventing and Treating Colds and Flu Naturally
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niffles, drippy noses, sore throat, achy muscles, fatigue – oh, and that nagging cough. Add on fever, lack of appetite, sleepless nights, pain, difficulty breathing, maybe even ear tugging. There’s the cold, the flu, and an ear infection thrown in for good measure. What is a tired person to do? The common cold is caused by the rhinovirus and is by far it the most prevalent upper respiratory infection (URI) in both adults and children. When the immune system is compromised, secondary infections can also set in – usually bacterial in nature, generally affecting ears or sinuses. The elderly or immune-compromised can also be prone to further progression of what starts off as a cold or flu, leading to pneumonia or bronchitis. While common, cold and flu is nothing to sneeze at.
There is certainly some truth to this. When we are laid flat with that cold coming on, the best advice is to actually stay there! Rest is undoubtedly the most underused tool in the healing toolbox. We are a society always on the go, and media advertising doesn’t help, especially when promoting products that encourage you to take the ‘pill’ and keep going like the EverReady battery bunny. Unfortunately, this approach actually hinders us and adds to the immune compromise and cortisol imbalances. What the body, mind and spirit really needs is rest – to literally slow down and place a moratorium on your to-do list in order to focus on your health. Equally important, this is a time to nourish yourself with high quality nutrients – even if you lack an appetite in the beginning stages of a URI. Consume light foods such as bone broth soup, miso drinks, herbal teas, garlic, ginger, and avoid food allergens that you are sensitive to, and processed sugars (which are immune suppressors).
Natural Medical Care In most cases, cold and flu are viral based, and in many people, the immune system is strong enough to resolve the infection with supportive care or even natural and adjunctive care. Antibiotics are NOT the treatment of choice when faced with cold and flu, and can often do more harm than good. UnCastor, Mustard and Magic: If you end up havnecessary antibiotics that are given for undiagnosed ing chest congestion with mucous that’s difficult to or misdiagnosed URI can contribute to antibiotics cough up, or swollen lymph nodes that may be a litresistance and disrupt the gut microbiome. So what else can you do though to combat this? In my office, I always start with a broad range evaluation – diet, lifestyle, hygiene habits, environmental factors such as stress levels and their appropriate management, exposure to allergens and toxins, and assess for any nutrient deficiencies. A physical exam also necessary to assess breathing, check for potential infections in the ears and throat, as well as checking for any swollen lymph nodes and fevers. Rest, Replenish, Restore: There is an old folk saying, ‘feed a cold, starve a fever.’ 4
Herbal Collective Dec,’17
tle tender to the touch, there are few things that may alleviate these. An application of topical castor oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help promote circulation and decrease congestion, directly over the affected areas such as behind the ear and down the neck can help. A mustard chest pack stimulates circulation , breaks up stuck mucous in the lungs, and helps open the airways making it easier to cough and expel phlegm. Combine that with a little magic - magic socks that is – the magical prescription of an inner layer of wet socks with an outer one of dry wool socks, used only at bedtime, can also relieve head congestion, draw heat from the head and down through the feet, and provide comfort. By the way, my children love and ask for their magic socks(!), as they are an easy treatment approach. Vitamins and Minerals: Starting in the fall, levels of vitamin D drop, especially if you live in a area where the sun just doesn’t shine as frequently on a daily basis. From October through to April, I always add some Vitamin D to my children’s daily diets and recommend this to my patients as well. Ensure that you take it with a fatty meal, as Vitamin D is a fatsoluble hormone and is more absorbable that way. Take a high quality Vitamin C supplement on a daily basis, as these boost immune cell function and can help decrease the duration of your cold. Adding zinc or zinc-rich foods such as pumpkin seeds, chicken, or turkey is important, as chronic mild zinc deficiencies can lead to frequent colds and flu, and generally poor health. It is advisable to start taking zinc usually within 24 hours of cold and flu onset. Botanical Medicine: Anti-microbial herbs are typically prescribed in my clinic – through tinctures, tea, throat sprays or other forms. Herbs such as Echinacea and Elderflower which support the immune system, or Catnip and Lavender which can help de-stress and help you rest, are common ones. As always though, if you are in doubt as to your symptoms, or if your discomfort worsens after a number of days, then do a followup with your healthcare provider and don’t hesitate to seek emergency medical attention if needed. Stay well – and enjoy the remainder of 2017. I will see you all in the new year.
neem tree Ancient Medicine for a Modern World
Ayurvedic medicine and the Indian subcontinent have long been using the amazing healing powers of the Neem Tree. Oil is extract from the kernels of the seeds and an extract is derived from the leaves. Neem is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help temporarily relieve the minor skin irritations such as itching associated with eczema or minor wounds. The tincture and skin cream are Health Canada registered.
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CLEAN AND SIMPLE Our products are made without the use of Petro chemicals or Parabens. QUALITY, INTEGRITY, PURITY We formulate our products onsite using the best quality and ethically sourced ingredients in small batches made by hand. Ferlow Botanicals manufactures a variety of Neem products including: • Neem Shampoo & Conditioner • Neem Cream • Neem Oil • Neem Toothpaste • Neem Bar Soap • Neem Tinture Please contact us for more information. Neem is second to none when it comes to controlling and healing up psoriasis. Satisfied patients have sent their friends to our clinic pharmacy for this particular product and it can literally fly off the shelves. Great products, great service and a passionate commitment to Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Health Care. Dr. Alfred Hauk, ND The Holistic Healing Arts Centre, Brantford, ON
Dr. Olena Gill is a Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist practicing in Parksville and Gabriola Island, B.C.
She can be reached at 778-762-3099 or www.indigomedicine. com . Disclaimer: Information in this article should not be construed or used as a substitute for medical evaluation or advice. See your Naturopathic Physician for proper evaluation
Unit 5 - 8385 St. George Street, Vancouver, BC V5X4P3 Tel: 604-322-4080, Fax: 604-322-4081
www.ferlowbotanicals.com Herbal Collective, Dec,’17
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Adrenal Fatigue during Festive Season
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hen the expectations and stress of the festive season become too much, adrenal fatigue can come a real problem. Some people are on the go all the time and this can contribute to adrenal fatigue. Busy weekends, working, family life and stresses – these can all contribute to the flight or fight response. Adding the extra layer of events to attend, gifts to shop for and other extras during the festive season – it’s easy to become overwhelmed and stressed. This can affect the adrenal glands and over time can cause a health crash. Sometime the immune system crashes - there’s nothing worse than getting sick over the holidays. It’s important to know what adrenal fatigue is and how to combat it. THE SYMPTOMS….. constant tiredness bags under the eyes lack of enthusiasm- feeling ‘flat’ mild depression or anxiety inability to cope with the smallest stressful situation never waking feeling refreshed lose strength in the gym lacking energy but have energy rushes late at night hair loss skin problems – dull skin weight gain/ inability to lose weight low sex drive heart palpitations foggy brain
Take a Bite Out of the Competition Contact us to get your business in the next issue or provide a Natural Health Deal info@herbalcollective.ca 6
Herbal Collective Dec,’17
increase in allergic reactions to foods sensitivities to light THE TREATMENT….The DO’s Have a regular bedtime routine. The adrenal glands heal between 10-12pm and 7-9am. Nocturnal workers can sleep in til 9 but most people need to get to bed by 10 p.m. to benefit. Say No when you have reached your limit. People pleasers (people who say yes to everything regardless of how it affects them) are much more likely to suffer adrenal fatigue. This is especially important during the festive season. Relaxing Treatments - Do something that relaxes you EVERY DAY: a warm bath, a nap, a walk, yoga. Self-care is important is especially important during the busy festive season. Eat a protein rich breakfast within 30 mins-1 hour of waking. Protein regulates blood sugar and keeps it stable throughout the day. Eat a diet high in natural foods – fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds and high quality protein. Use pink himalayan salt on everything! Adrenal fatigue depletes salt levels. Take adrenal support supplements. Supplement with magnesium citrate and 5-htp 1 hour before bed. This massively relaxes the body, improves sleep and boosts mood. Use digestive enzymes as poor digestion as a result of adrenal fatigue. Try to exercise in the morning. Exercise initiates a cortisol response so its better to do this at morning to reduce impact on sleep. Take vitamin C post workout. Helps to reduce cortisol levels. Skip alcohol, gluten, wheat and dairy. Allergens will place the body under more stress. The DONT’s Overexercise: tone it down or stop altogether. Weight-based training is more effective than cortisol inducing HIIT or cardio with adrenal fatigue. Exercise on an empty stomach- cortisol-inducing adrenal hell! NO CAFFEINE. If you think you have seriously got adrenal fatigue then not even green tea, cut it all
Avoid that January Hangover
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n this season of eating and drinking, it’s important to know what to do to avoid that January hangover. Before you put anything in your mouth, consider the effect it will have on your body – not just for the day you eat it but for the next few weeks. Consuming acidic foods affect like sugar, white flour, dairy products that are popular during the festive season affect health in numerous ways. These can include listlessness, depression, headaches, acne, dry skin, mood swings, poor digestion, brittle nails and hair, and sensitive gums. This acidosis increases free radicals in the body which can lead to disease and viral infections. So while you’re enjoying yourself, consider this list of foods and herbs to know how your body is affected. This is provided courtesy of Diana Marchand, who teaches healthy living and eating for women over 40.
meric, garlic, onions, plant-based fats, high-alkaline foods and most super powders (wheatgrass, barley grass, chlorella, spirulina, moringa, etc)
Foods that Give You Energy Water, almonds, quinoa, dark chocolate, chia, hemp seeds, bananas, foods high in omega 3’s – walnuts, coconut oil, lentils, buckwheat, kale, ginger, high-alkaline foods (greens and vegetables) & super powders. (These are just a few – look up high alkaline foods)
Foods that Steal Your Energy Sugar, alcohol, wheat, meats, dairy, food with preservatives, heavy starches – potatoes, white rice, foods high in bad fats, deep fried foods.
Foods that Cause Inflammation • Alcohol, sugar, white flours, deep-fried foods, donuts and pastries, excess sodium, deli meats – food with preservative • Vegetable oils – the ones that are high in omega 6 fats such as corn, soybean, safflower -Use extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil • Dairy Products – body does not process the high levels of protein (casein) or sugar (lactose) in the dairy products • Red Meat • Wheat, rye and barley - gluten • Foods high in trans fat – processed foods, deep fried foods • Peanuts • Packaged foods and foods with preservatives – because your body does not recognize these chemicals and compounds so it launches an immune response
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Foods that Decrease Inflammation Walnuts, beets, fish that are higher in omega 3, fiber, dark leafy greens, bell peppers, ginger, turHerbal Collective
Dec, ‘17
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A New Model for Client Care
The Naturally Healthy Clinic
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any years ago Eike Jordan had a dream, a vision. That vision was to have a team of practitioners who worked together for the best of the client out of one location. That vision has now become reality with the Naturally Healthy Clinic now open in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter on Milton St. How it became reality is an intriguing story of the single mother and natural health practitioner Eike Jordan from Germany. Jordan was manager of physiotherapy in a hospital where everyone worked together, where medical doctors were also nutritionists, psychologists or did acupuncture. “In Germany we all worked hand in hand in all departments,” says Jordan. “It really shocked me when I came here.” Despite the disparity in how medicine was practiced, Jordan fell in love with the island and decided to stay with her two children. Jordan, who is highly educated as a massage therapist in Germany, called the Registered Massage Therapists Association to challenge their exams but was not allowed to do this. So she decided to open her own clinic as a massage practitioner and connected with others in the medical and natural health community. “I think over the years I established a good connection in the medical community,” she says. “I travel all over the world to get the best of the best in education.” Jordan eventually wanted to bring a team together 8
Herbal Collective Dec’17
Eike Jordan, right, shows a client molecules in blood from a Darkfield Microscope, one of the diagnostic tools the clinic uses.
to work out of one clinic to provide the best care based on the patient. My plan was to have a team. We looked at houses and none of them were perfect. I never gave up on it,” she says. She wanted to have something that was the best for the patient, not for each individual practitioner. People she met and worked with told her she would have the clinic she was looking for. This happened after a water skiing accident when a woman from Duncan came to treat her. It also happened at Calico Cat when Heather Frank read Jordan’s tea leaves and told her she would have the clinic and team she was looking for. Last spring a friend called when she was in New York and told her there was a place that she needed to decide on right away. So she put an offer in on an old character house that had been run as a legal aid centre. “I love that it’s a really old house,” says Jordan.
Patrons learned about the clinic during an Open House on a recent Sunday. Left shows the main floor of the clinic and one of the rooms where acupuncture is held, above,
She decided to make it wheelchair accessible which was difficult as the entire building had to be accessible. The building was also tested for asbestos and came out clean. But renovations had to be done to make the two story clinic usable. “The whole building was naked to the studs, we redid it tip to toe,” says Jordan. The result is a clinic in a gorgeous heritage style building. Once it was finished in the fall, everything else came together with the team. “Then it just fell into place,” says Jordan. “Then people contacted me out of the blue,” she says. This included a surgeon from New York and a psychotherapist from Italy, Mariarosa Greco, who is joining the 14 member team soon. Besides Jordan, other members of the team include her daughter Catherine Jordan, a certified practitioner, Colleen Hartwick, ND, Georgina Cyr, iridology instructor, Sheena Villeneuve, registered acupuncturist and beauty practitioner, Melanye Walker, certified bowenwork practitioner and certified colon hydrotherapist, Darlene King, cosmedical laser phototherapist, Meg Gorosh, certified Tre provider, Patricia Ross, alternative health practitioner, Clayto Bostock, ND, Anita Racid, MD and certified Abaarm (American Board of Anti-Anging/Regenerative Medicine) Alayna Gjelsten, certified aesthetician and Ken Pepperdine, chiropractor. “We’re really happy we have a medical doctor and
psychologist,” says Jordan of the team. With the team working together, so many more issues can be addressed in one location, without the need for travel to other communities. Each team member had to fill out 13 pages of ethics, codes and standards to be accepted to work out of the clinic. These high standards ensure clients are looked after properly. “One of the major things that makes us stand out is patients fill out one intake form,” says Jordan. “It makes us as a team really work closely and exchange information. If the patient signs off, we work as a whole team hand in hand.” There is also less financial stress for clients, as the first session is usually the most expensive. After the intake form is done, one of the practitioners will treat the client’s primary problem. The clinic uses diagnostic tools such as thermography and darkfield microscope to show what is happening in the body. There is a long list of services the team provides available at www.naturallyhealthyclinic.ca. The only things they don’t do are x-rays and surgeries. The clinic offers extensive health and medical services like lab testing, exams and cancer treatment as well as a spa services such as pedicure and manicures, massages and skin treatments. For more on the clinic, contact Jordan at eike. jordan@n-h-clinic.ca or visit www.naturallyhealthyclinic.com Herbal Collective Dec,’17
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Herb of the Month
Borage Oil for Adrenal Fatigue
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his herb with the pretty star-shaped blue flowers has many wonderful qualities. An oil excreted from the seeds can be used to treat adrenal fatigue. The oil contains contains alkaloids, fatty acids, mucilage’s, acids, tannins and saponins. These compounds help prevent adrenal exhaustion from today’s busy lifestyle by increasing the strength of the adrenal glands. The oil can be taken in the form of a supplement that can be either mixed into food or in topical applications. It should be used topically only as an additive in a 1/10 ratio with other base oils. Borage oil should not be heated as heat kills the healing properties of it. If you are able to get fresh leaves of this plant then it is better to eat them raw or cook it like spinach. Borage is easy to grow from seed as an annual and will self seed freely. The plant grows up to two feet high, 12 inches wide and likes well drained organic soil.
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Herbal Collective Dec,’17
It blooms in June and July with small brilliant blue star-shaped flowers. Honeybees love the flowers and it provides excellent flavor to honey. The leaves are cucumber flavored that can be made into an iced tea while the flowers make a unique decoration for salads. The flowers can also be candied or used in potpourris. Every part of the plant except the roots have culinary or medicinal value. Borage oil is a strong anti-inflammatory so it is beneficial for healing skin condition as well as lowering pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis or sore joints. Borage has one of the highest amounts of Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) of all seed oils with 23% compared to just 9% for evening primrose oil. This is one of the omega-6 fatty acids that our body needs but cannot make on its own. GLA is converted into prostaglandins, a key molecule for maintaining healthy skin. This is also effective for a range of women’s conditions. Borage oil also has anti-oxidant properties so it can help people benefit from a wide range of conditions. These include; PMS, menopause, hormonal imbalance, skin disorders, chronic fatigue, respiratory distress, osteoporosis, stress relief, diabetes treatment and alcoholism. Borage oil can be applied topically or taken orally. The oral method taken in amounts of 1,000 to 1,300 mg daily helps repair cells and keeps internal organs healthy. Topically the oil affects the body where it is applied so it is absorbed deep into the skin and bloodstream. Contraindications: Borage oil has some side effects such as nausea, indigestion, stomach upset, constipation, diarrhea, rashes, belching and bloating but these are rare.
(Got a recipe to contribute? Email info@herbalcollective.ca
Chocolate Truffles 1 C pecans 1 C walnuts (use all walnuts or all pecans, hazelnuts or cashews) 12-15 Medjool dates (amount will vary, less or more) 4-5 Tbsp cacao powder or cocoa powder ¼ tsp vanilla or some vanilla bean Dash of salt Fine flaked coconut flakes (non-sweetened) Add nuts into food processor and process until broken down. Take pits out of dates, chop and add about 10 dates. Pulse to break down dates and mix. Add cacao powder and salt – if mixture is really dry add more chopped dates. Process until mixture mixes well – if too dry add more dates – if you do not have more dates add a bit of coconut oil (but not much, just a bit).You want mixture to stick together when you pinch it. Scoop out of food processor and add to larger cutting board. Take a bit of the batter and roll into a ball in your palms. Place on plate. Do this with all the mixture. Roll the ball into fine flake coconut Place in freezer to set. These should be stored in the freezer. If left out on the counter they will get really soft. When taken out of the freezer they will be really hard – so let thaw a few minutes before eating
Candied Pecans 3 Tbsp maple syrup, 1 ½ tsp organic date sugar, 3/4 tsp sea salt, 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper 1 1/2 cups pecan halves Combine all ingredients. Mix well. Pour over 1 ½ cups of pecan halves. Stir gently to coat well. Layer on cookie sheet, bake 10-15 minutes
Herbal Collective
Dec’17
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Stay Healthy with Colloidal Silver
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ilver atoms suspended in water when ingested orally or topically has been used for thousands of years and is now becoming more recognised as the safest antimicrobial known to humanity. Colloidal silver exhibits strong antiviral and antibacterial potency and when made professionally has no side effects. Silver is an essential mineral with a minimum daily requirement of 0.3 mg. Scientific research conducted by Ontario laboratories of Biophysica since 1995, combining colloidal chemistry, nanotechnology, ionization and electrolysis, has resulted in the availability of an extremely effective, safe technology for making colloidal mineral waters of most essential minerals. Anyone can now make their own life-enhancing antimicrobial remedies at home using Biophysica’s colloidal generator and many bottling plants worldwide now use the Biophysica industrial multi-channel colloidal generators.
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Herbal Collective Dec,’17
MINERALS: It is now believed by nutritional scientists that the metallic elements Zinc, Copper, Iron, Tin, Calcium, Sodium, Silica, Potassium, Magnesium, Manganese, Molybdenum, Chromium, and Boron as well as other rarer elements like Selenium, Germanium, Vanadium, Platinum, Silver, and Gold, Titanium, Rhodium, and Iridium are essential for our well-being and maintenance of body systems. Like many other minerals, they have always been present in our food but in diminishing amounts in recent decades. For each element there is a minimal daily requirement. In the case of Silver, Selenium, Chromium, Iodine, and Molybdenum, this is around 100 to 300 micrograms (0.1 to 0.3 milligrams). For Zinc, and Germanium it is 100 milligrams. For Magnesium and Iron it is 350 to 1000 mg. Without such essential minerals, our ability to resist disease is seriously compromised. Of the above list, silver stands out as being the only safe, inexpensive, effective antiviral available. MANUFACTURE: Colloidal Silver is manufactured by a highly technical, electro-colloidal nonchemical method in which particles (with 15 atoms or less) of 99.99% fine silver are electrically charged and held in suspension in a solution of purified water. It is produced by passing an electric current with high vibrational frequencies between two 99.99% pure, large area silver electrodes that are submerged in the water, which produces a specialized electric field in a spinning magnetic vortex. The electrical current then etches off nanometresized particles from the electrode and, at the same time, electrically charges them with Zeta Potential of -60 millivolts. Each particle of silver will have the same electromagnetic Zeta charge, and thus will repel one another by holding themselves in suspension in the water solution. This process is very similar to that used to electroplate a precious metal onto an object, except that the absence of a receiving object at another electrode causes the silver to remain in a colloidal suspension in the water. The electric charge is stronger than gravity so that the silver particles will remain suspended. However, as the Zeta electrical charge becomes weaker over
an extended period of time, gravity will slowly pull the silver particles out of suspension. Eventually, all the silver particles will settle out, and the solution is no longer "colloidal". Biophysica has developed the highest Zeta Potential and most effective nanoparticles of any colloidal suspension, being 0.5 to 8 nanometres in diameter. COLLOIDS: All living things exist in a colloidal state. Before any food or medication can be utilized by the body, it must be converted from a crystalline to a colloidal state. Colloidal chemistry is a process that alters the molecular structure of a substance without actually changing the substance itself. A Colloid consists of ultra fine particles that are typically smaller than 0.1 microns, which are suspended in a liquid medium. The smallest, highest quality particles are so tiny that they cannot be seen by the naked eye and will not reflect a laser beam (Tyndall effect). EFFECTIVENESS: Our 20 years of clinical experience have shown that concentrations from 5 parts per million (PPM) up to 50 parts per million (PPM) is suggested as the ideal Colloidal Silver solution. However, the high electrical voltage charge, Zeta Potential, and extremely small nanometre size appear to be more prominent factors in terms of determining its overall effectiveness, especially against the smallest most vicious viruses and prions which cause brain damage and have been implicated in MS, mad Cow, Herpes, HIV, Alzheimers, Lyme, Chronic Fatigue. The silver particles in Colloidal Silver must range in size from 0.1 to 0.001 microns in diameter in order to be effective against the microscopically small viruses, pathogenic bacteria, fungi and other microbes and to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier. SAFETY: Colloidal Silver is odorless, tasteless, non-stinging, harmless to the eyes or skin when administered topically to humans and animals, and has neutral pH. In small doses it improves the overall digestive processes and inhibits H.pylori without affecting large intestine gut flora. Colloidal Silver is completely non-toxic, non-addictive, and has no negative or adverse side-effects, and one cannot overdose. Furthermore, it cannot cause any harm to the liver, kidneys or any other vital organs in the body.
STORAGE: Solutions of Colloidal Silver do not require refrigeration, but should be stored in glass bottles away from direct sunlight, as it is light sensitive. Avoid exposing it to direct heat or noxious odors as well, and keep solutions of Colloidal Silver away from magnets or magnetic fields. Since they are electrically charged, the particles are in constant motion, and can remain in suspension for several months (even years) while in the glass container. You should not have to shake the solution, and Colloidal Silver will not contain any chemical, protein, binding agent, stabilizer or any other artificial additives, as laboratory tests indicate that silver may lose effectiveness when additives are employed. The pH should be neutral, and Colloidal Silver is generally colorless to a pale golden yellow. a. Color variance and cloudiness also depend upon the concentration of silver particles, as well as the presence or absence of Oxygen, Ozone or Chlorine which may produce oxides and chlorides. Both the container and dropper must be glass, as plastic or other containers will not preserve the silver in liquid suspension for any great length of time. WHY USE COLLOIDAL SILVER?
When properly prepared, Colloidal Silver is a powerful natural broad-spectrum disinfecting antibiotic and antimicrobial agent that acts as a preventative against systemic infections or infectious disorders of viral or bacterial origin. It is capable of significantly reducing the severity and length of nearly any type of bacterial and viral infection, such as pneumonia, flu, colds. The presence of Colloidal Silver near a virus, fungus, bacterium, or any other single-celled pathogen acts as a catalyst to disable those enzymes that pathogenic (disease-bearing) bacteria, viruses and fungi require for the metabolism of oxygen in order to breathe. Within a few minutes these microbes either starve or suffocate without any corresponding harm towards the various parts of the human body chemistry. This leads to the complete destruction of any disease-producing organism in the body, which are expelled from the body by the immune, lymphatic and elimination systems. Colloidal Silver has been documented to have the ability to rapidly destroy over 650 different harmful organisms within six minutes or less. Biophysica sent product samples for testing against MRSA which were inactivated within 8 minutes of exposure to the remedy. Dr. John Stewart runs Biophysica in Ontario Herbal Collective Dec,’17
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Skeptical about Homeopathy?
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lthough homeopathy has persisted for 200+ years throughout the world and has been the leading alternative treatment method used by physicians in Europe, most conventional physicians and scientists have expressed skepticism about homeopathy’s efficacy due to the extremely small doses of medicines used. Dr. Luc Montagnier, the French virologist who won the Nobel Prize in 2008 for discovering the AIDS virus has provided strong support for homeopathic medicine. Montagnier, who at the time was founder and president of the World Foundation for AIDS Research and Prevention asserted, “I can’t say that homeopathy is right in everything. What I can say now is that the high dilutions (used in homeopathy) are right. High dilutions of something are not nothing. They are water structures which mimic the original substance” Here, Montagnier is making reference to his experimental research that confirms one of the controversial features of homeopathic medicine that uses doses of substances that undergo sequential dilution with vigorous shaking in-between each dilution. Although it is common for modern-day scientists to assume that none of the original molecules remain in the solution, Montagnier’s research (and other of many of his colleagues) has verified that electromagnetic signals of the original medicine remains in the water and has dramatic biological effects Nobel Prize-winning scientist, Brian Josephson, Ph.D., wrote in response to an article on homeopathy in New Scientist: “Regarding your comments on claims made for homeopathy: criticisms centered around the vanishingly small number of solute molecules present in a solution after it has been repeatedly diluted are beside the point, since advocates of
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Herbal Collective Dec,’17
homeopathic remedies attribute their effects not to molecules present in the water, but to modifications of the water’s structure. Simple-minded analysis may suggest that water, being a fluid, cannot have a structure of the kind that such a picture would demand. But cases such as that of liquid crystals, which while flowing like an ordinary fluid can maintain an ordered structure over macroscopic distances, show the limitations of such ways of thinking. There have not been, to the best of my knowledge, any refutations of homeopathy that remain valid after this particular point is taken into account”. Skeptics of homeopathy also have long asserted that homeopathic medicines have “nothing” in them because they are diluted too much. However, new research conducted at the respected Indian Institutes of Technology has confirmed the presence of “nanoparticles” of the starting materials even at extremely high dilutions. Researchers have demonstrated by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), electron diffraction and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), the presence of physical entities in these extreme dilutions. In light of this research, it can now be asserted that anyone who says or suggests that there is “nothing” in homeopathic medicines is either simply uninformed or is not being honest. Although skeptics of homeopathy may assume that homeopathic doses are still too small to have any biological action, such assumptions have also been proven wrong. The multi-disciplinary field of small doses effects is call “hormesis”, and approximately 1,000 studies from a wide variety of scientific specialties have confirmed significant and sometimes substantial biological effects from extremely small doses of certain substances on biological systems. A special issue of the peer-review journal, Human and Experimental Toxicology (July 2010), devoted itself to the interface between hormesis and homeopathy. The articles in this issue verify the power of homeopathic doses of various substances. Colin Gillies is a homeopath in Qualicum Beach, B.C.
Essential Oils for Insomnia
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f you have trouble with sleep, essential oils are a simple yet effective method for beating insomnia. The essential oils listed here can be used single or in combinations in the bath, in massage, diffused in the bedroom or in sleep pillows. Start with 2-3 drops and tweak as needed. Dilute 1-3 drops essential oil in a base of olive or sweet almond oil. Follow a healthy bedtime routine to wind down before you hit the sheets. Essential oils can help before and after you are in bed. The beauty of using the essential oils is that there are no lingering side effects, so you wake up refreshed and ready to start a new day.
Lavender Most people are familiar with lavender as an essential oil for calming and relaxing the nervous system. Lavender is wonderful for babies to adults, so it can help in many situations. This essential oil can be applied directly to the skin without diluting so it is very easy to use. If you don’t know what to use, lavender is a good one to start with.
ing effects that promote a restful night’s sleep. This essential oil is also useful for PMS and can be used before and during the menstrual cycle.
Bergamot This essential oil has both calming and uplifting properties so it is frequently used in massage. Bergamot is rich in limonene and linalyl acetate so it helps with anxious or sad feelings. It’s citrusy aroma can provide a joyful calming effect. Paired with lavender, it is doubly effective at calming the nervous system to provide a restful night of sleep.
HOMEOPATH Natural Solutions for Health
Colin J. Gillies, Adv. Dip. Hom., MBCSH (250) 947-0288
12-221 2nd. Avenue, W. Qualicum Beach, B.C. V9K 2S5
Email: info@colingillieshomeopath.com
www.colingillieshomeopath.com
Roman Chamomile This oil with the light floral scent can create a peaceful atmosphere in the bedroom. It’s good for restlessness and anxiety. This one is also safe for use on children. Roman Chamomile has a calming effect on the skin, mind and body, soothing body systems. It can be applied to the bottoms of the feet at bedtime.
Clary Sage This essential oil is a strong anti-stressor and can be used as a therapeutic agent for depressive disorders. Clary Sage affects the GABA receptor modulator in the brain to cause sedation in the body. It has relaxing, soothing and balancHerbal Collective Dec,’17
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Create an Herbal Christmas
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nce upon a time, many, many years ago, when Christmas wasn’t commercialized, people learned to make the festive season special by using the gifts of nature. Herbs and spices played a big role at Christmastime and their wonderful aroma filled the air. Herbs and spices are still used to a certain degree today during Christmas, I just can’t imagine a Christmas without it. I love the scents, the tastes, all those ancient traditions that make Christmas what it is today. I believe many people want to return to a simpler time for Christmas, to escape the commercialism and make the festive season special. You can use herbs and spices to do just that, whether it’s decorating your home, making special meals or giving gifts. Come with me and take a walk down memory lane as we explore how herbs and spices were used many years ago and how you can create a truly memorable Christmas with them today. A great deal of greenery and the scents of herbs and spices were used during a Christmas in medieval and colonial times. It was often a spiritual event and many people celebrated Advent, a season that starts four weeks before Christmas. So churches were often decorated with a great deal of greenery, pine branches, holly, wreaths and garlands.
petals were scattered throughout churches, providing a pleasant holiday scent. These scented herbs and flowers were chosen partly because they were romantic but also because they were considered an alternative form of incense. Sometimes strewing herbs were put on the floor and released an aromatic pungent scent when people stepped on them. In the home, herbs were used in decorations around doors, at entranceways, on stair banisters, ireplace mantles, windowsills and anywhere else people could think to use for decorations. Sometimes simple sprigs of holly or bay leaves filled vases and Christmas Herbs and Spices in Ancient Times other containers or stood flat against windowpanes. Herbs such as Rosemary, were interwoven into Scented pomanders made with citrus fruits or apthese decorations. Rosemary was particularly associ- ples and studded with cloves hung in various locaated with Mary and is often referred to as ‘Rosemary tions, particularly next to windows Scented pomanfor remembrance.” See the special section on the ders made with citrus fruits or apples and studded Christmas herbs’ to learn more about rosemary’s as- with cloves hung in various locations, particularly sociation with Christmas. next to windows. Candles were used quite a In the kitchen, the woman of the house often had bit and decorated as well. An herbs simmering in a pot to scent the room. Mulling Advent wreath, a combinaspices were often used in wine or other alcoholic tion of candles and greenery, beverages. Wassail, a popular drink with or without was used to symbolize the alcohol, was made with spices such as cloves, cinstart of the Advent season. namon and allspice. You can learn how to make Spices were used frequently in baking for cookies an Advent wreath in the spe- or popular breads such as gingerbread. Mincemeat cial section on wreaths and was also popular, though nowadays meat isn’t actugarlands. ally used in mincemeat tarts. Rosemary as well as bay Learn how to make your own with An Herbal leaves, lavender and rose Christmas guidebook. 16
Herbal Collective Dec,’17
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Mental Health for Men By Jieries Rabba housands of men are getting ready to mow down their Movember moustaches. Before long, the outward signs of the campaign will all but fade away. But have we done enough to publicly discuss one of the newer educational pillars and beneficiary causes of the movement: mental health and suicide prevention? Incorporating mental health awareness into this global campaign was a very deliberate and noble decision. It's unfortunate that it still seems underexposed, especially since mental health has an impact on all aspects of one's life. If you're suffering from depression or any of the other mental health issues that plague our society, you're likely not in a state to take care of yourself or control your quality of life. In many ways, it's the mind that matters the most. We've spent decades, if not longer, shunning the topic, which is all the more reason _to _talk about it. Yes, the conversation will be awkward. Yes, the conversation will be uncomfortable. Yet, this _uncomfortable_ conversation is one we all need to have
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-especially with and among men. Mental health touches my heart. I developed an acute eating disorder some eight years ago. It was the toughest time of my life in many ways and the mind was at the centre of it. Having bulimia came with many different problems including a perpetual fear of gaining weight and falling back to where I used to be; of losing everything for which I worked hard because I ate a cupcake or another sweet. The mind games, with real outcomes, were emotionally and physically draining. The act of throwing up made my throat so sore it felt raw and left my stomach aching beyond belief. While the genesis of this behaviour lay in my mind, the physical symptoms only served to impact my mind for the worse. It was a truly vicious cycle. It took me a long time to realize the role of my mind. It was only through the mind that I was able to move my mouth to utter my first plea for help. At the beginning, I kept my thoughts and actions secret because I felt embarrassed. Finally, two years ago, I was able to broach the topic with my wife for the first time. Looking back, I can't help but think I should have opened up sooner. Having one conversation is where it all begins. It's the start that counts. It's unrealistic to think I'll be able to pull someone out of a serious mental health illness through a single column or article. But I can encourage Canadians to start the conversation. Like the moustache, the conversation doesn't have to be perfect. Awkward phrases can lead to support and success in turning things around. So as you shave the moustache, be sure to broach the topic and let the conversations grow from there. Jiries Rabba is founder of PrOATein.
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