AVENA AUTUMN 2013

vena A Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists

Autumn 2013

Volume 13 Issue 1

Your Skin - Michael McCammon NHC Insurance Medicine Making

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vena A Autumn 2013

CONTENTS

Volume 13 Issue 1

F E AT U R E S

REGULARS

12 Your Skin Michael McCammon

8 Business Management Craig Rhodes

7 Are you insured? A Guide to Getting NHC insurance

11 News Artemis wins Ethics Award

32 Obituary Glenda Wright

16 Fertility & Reproductive Health Yvonne Gattung

F R OM T H E C OM M I T T E E

20 Herbal Manufacturing Rixt Botello

4 President’s report

26 Plant Distillation Jill Mulvaney

5 Treasury report 9 NZAMH Branch Meetings 30 NZAMH CPE Points

29 Book Review Richard Whelan

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NZAMH Conference & AGM 2013 May 24 - 26th Dunedin Public Art Gallery Go to page 3 for more details COVER PHOTO: Calendula officinalis (Glenda Harris © 2013)

Editorial AVENA

Hello Herbalists,

Editor: Mary Allan Layout/Design: Mary Allan Printer: GEON CIRCULATION The Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists (NZAMH) is published quarterly and is available to paid members of the NZAMH, and other interested subscribers, libraries and institutions.

ADVERTISING Please contact the editor at avena@ nzamh.co.nz for a copy of Information for Advertisers.

CONTRIBUTIONS Please send contributions by e-mail in an attached Microsoft Word document. Pictures should be high resolution jpg, gif, pdf or TIFF format. Please include full name and contact details. Contact the editor at avena@nzamh. org.nz for further enquiries.

DISCLAIMER Any statement of fact or purported statements of fact contained in this publication are published without prejudice, and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Editor or the NZ Association of Medical Herbalists. Any liability in respect thereto is limited accordingly. Publication of an article or advertisement does not constitute endorsement by the Editor or NZ Association of Medical Herbalists. The information contained in this publication is not intended to replace appropriate professional healthcare.

The Editor and NZ Association of Medical Herbalists take no responsibility for the use of information in this publication. Avena contents cannot be reproduced without permission.

NZAMH PO Box 12 582, Chartwell, Hamilton 3248

w w w. n z a m h . o r g . n z

Welcome to the Autumn issue of Avena.

Putting this issue together was fun as well as educational. Refreshingly, many of the articles in this issue are written from a practical hands-on perspective, and although this was largely unplanned I suspect it will be really appreciated by readers, because the Mary Allan, Editor clinical and manufacturing discussions can be applied in a way that is immediate, palpable and pleasantly experiential! In addition it is hoped that these articles will go some way to help connect herbalists through the country by way of common experience, fostering feelings of empathy and support from a foundation of common goals and understanding. Indeed, one of the aims of Avena is to connect to real every-day herbalists in a way that shares herbal know-how and experience and thus benefits our work whether that work is primarily writing, speaking, teaching, clinical work or manufacturing for example. On that note, Rixt Botello has just produced a beautiful new childrens herb book - I urge you to check out the book review on page 29.

This issue's feature article is from Michael McCammon, quite a character from the South Island. Mike runs a very busy practice in Christchurch, and has been practicing for over 35 years. In this issue he tackles the vast topic of skin conditions giving us a glimpse of what philosophies and treatments he has found effective over his 30+ years of practice.

March is a busy month for our members, with membership fees due, first aid, CPE, Insurance, Conference costs.... With all this in mind, Linda Jones has made the Conference Earlybird for members even more attractive this year.

Last year it was a $30 discount - this year at $55 it is almost twice as much!

Have a read of the Presidents report - and be inspired to come to our AGM so you can have your say and help shape the future of herbal medicine in New Zealand.

I hope you all get a chance to get out there in the beautiful sunshine and enjoy some of the recipes your fellow colleagues have shared with you :) Happy Harvest, Mary 3

Visit Our Conference Website www.conferencenzamh.wordpress.com or go to our home website and click on the link.

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

celebrating 30 years!!!

NZAMH CONFERENCE AND AGM Dunedin Public Art Gallery 24 – 27 May 2013

'future Medicine from Traditional herbs' Members Earlybird Discount Rate $195: save $55 if full weekend paid in full before April 15th Limited early-bird registrations available. (Optional extra: Orokonui Sanctuary $25.00)

Speakers ΏΏ Dr Jon Wardle (Australia),

ΏΏ Isla Burgess,

ΏΏ Dr Rosemary Beresford

ΏΏ Alicia Melrose,

ΏΏ Phil Rasmussen,

ΏΏ Helen Mayhew,

ΏΏ Robert McGowan

ΏΏ Sandra Clair,

ΏΏ Valmai Becker,

Schedule Friday

AGM 7-9 pm (NZAMH Members)

Saturday

Conference

Sunday

Conference

Monday

Orokonui Ecosanctuary - optional. Cost: $25.00

cost We e k e n d

S aturday Onl y

S unday Onl y

Studen t me mb e r

$150

$100

$70

Other me mb e r s

$250

$165

$100

Non -me mb e r

$320

$220

$130

For further details please contact Linda Jones, Conference Co-ordinator email: linda.jones@xtra.co.nz or phone (03) 3133591, (027) 5713968 Visit our website for updates: www.nzamh.org.nz Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

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NZAMH Committee Reports

President’s Report Dear Members, At the time of writing, it has not rained at my place for 45 days. Life on tank water can be interesting! By the time this issue is out, all going well, we will be able to shower again at home, and my gardens thirst will be quenched with life giving water.

national media. This is a great coup, as we have the chance to make sensible statements around controversial issues. If you feel we need to respond to any media articles, please be our eyes and ears, call me on 027 4588626, as responses need to be quick. Well done to those herbies out there who have had positive articles printed. You can follow these contributions on our yahoo group. If you have not joined - stop thinking about it, do it right now. Contact Val on info@nzamh.org.nz.

Conference Weekend

What is a herbalist? Developmental meetings with national stakeholders in education of herbal medicine continues. Thank you team, it is historic work. Shaping our future is so important.

Is there anyone out there who is involved directly with a DHB? If you are, please take a moment to briefly outline your relationship and e-mail it to me (herbladywhiti@gmail.com).

This is valuable information that NZAMH needs make positive connections within primary healthcare.

Politically we are in stalemate until the government has completed its review of the legislation in the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act (HPCAA). When things start to move, it will be all heads down to make submissions on changes and new developments.

Have you touched based with other practitioners prescribing herbal medicine in your area? Now is a great time to do that. Get together and make a group. NZAMH can support any group, and they do not need to be members. Don't get isolated out there.

You are paying good money for your registration – I hope you are finding it to be more than just a necessary business expense. It is to have a team working for your future, to be your voice. Get your moneys worth, become vocal and participate in NZAMH. Interact more with each other.

Linda Jones and the team are currently organising what is going to be an exciting Conference and AGM this year in Dunedin. It is our 30th Anniversary, and due to this we have altered the format by scheduling the AGM this year to Friday evening, 7-9 pm. Please come along to the AGM and have your say, every members voice is important and will go towards shaping the future of our profession. This rescheduling opens up more time for our speakers, social time and browsing the trade tables during the Conference weekend. I look forward to seeing you all there again this year!

Leanne Halliwell

Media We are trying really hard to modernise our systems, to make them more effective and offer you more. The committee have been committed to ongoing work around finances, website and multimedia. Social media is also relevant - I have now created an NZAMH facebook page, it is yet to become ACTIVE, please be patient. However, feel free to go in and 'like' the page so that when we are active you will be in on the gig. This page is for the world to see and relate to, so be aware, this is not a platform for discussing cases! (That is what the yahoo group is for). Work continues on development of a more effective website. This has not been an easy path for Moana and PR, but the outcome will be worth all the hard work.

Negative statements regarding natural therapies continue to make headlines. We have become a first contact point for

Thank you to all the Team. Thank you to all you herbies.

Leanne Halliwell

NZAMH Yahoo Group Simply email Val at info@nzamh.org.nz to sign on to the Yahoo chat group. You will then receive an invitation to join the group. Once you have joined, you will be able to respond to emails from members of the forum. This is a good way to keep in touch with other practitioners about political and professional issues and share advice with herbal colleagues.

REMINDER Your NZAMH Membership Requirements are due 1 April 2013 4

AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

NZAMH Committee Reports

Treasury Report Hello Everyone, It is now time to renew your membership for 2013/14 year. You should receive your membership renewal pack by early March.

This pack will include an order for your annual subscription and for Professional members, a Continuing Professional Education Form. Your Membership Requirements are due by 1 April 2013.

Membership Requirements due by 1 April 2013 • •

initially receive a 6 month Practicing Certificate valid to 30 September 2013, and then an updated Practicing Certificate once you have made your second payment.

If you have a genuine reason for being unable to meet your Membership commitments, please contact Val McArthur, our Administration Secretary. She manages our membership records.

NZAMH Conference Membership Rate and Earlybird Discount.

Your Subscription.

Professional Members – CPE and current First Aid Certificate.

Once we have received your subscription payments, an invoice/ receipt will be sent to you. This will be sent by email so please update your details on the subscription form. If paying directly into the bank account please quote your invoice number as well as your name.

To qualify for the Conference Members rate or discounted early bird rate, your subscription needs to be paid and your Membership requirements fulfilled. This means your CPE, current First Aid Certificate and subscription payment must all have been received. Payment of the first split payment subscription qualifies.

Your Membership will automatically lapse, if you do not meet all of the Membership Requirements by the dates specified below. Once membership has lapsed, you will need to apply to reinstate it.

Warm Regards

I look forward to seeing you at our special Birthday AGM and Conference weekend.

Sue Rubie

Professional members who choose to make split payments of $160 by 1 April 2013 and $160 by 1 September 2013, will

NZAMH Membership Requirements Member Category

Requirement

Due date

Cost

Professional Members

Annual Membership fee

1st April 2013

$295.00 OR split payment option:

1st April 2013 1st September 2013

$160.00 (Payment 1) $160.00 (Payment 2)

Current First Aid Certificate

1st April 2013

CPE points

1st April 2013

Associate Members

Annual Membership fee

1st April 2013

$150.00

Student Members

Annual Membership fee

1st April 2013

$50.00

Important - Your membership will automatically lapse if:

• Your Membership Requirements due by 1 April are not up to date by 1 June 2013 (a reminder will be sent out by 1 May) • Your second Split Payment is not paid by 1 November (a reminder will be sent out in August).

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

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NZAMH National Committee

2012/13 NZAMH National Committe Roles President: Leanne Halliwell

Publicity and Promotion

Vice President: Craig Rhodes

Moana Hutana (Convenor) Hannah McMenamin

Treasurer: Sue Rubie

Student Representative Sarah Brenchley

Secretary: Kimberly Taylor

NHC Representative

Sub-committees

Jill Dunn

Political

Non-committee roles

Jill Dunn (Convenor) (Phil Rasmussen: co-opt)

Administration Val McArthur

Conference & AGM

Linda Jones (Conference Coordinator)

Avena Editor Mary Allan

Education

Jesse Summers (Convenor) Robyn Carruthers Jill Dunn Kate Robertson

For all administration or membership enquiries please contact Val McArthur: Phone (07) 855 6724; (027) 618 3573 E-mail val@herbaltouch.co.nz

2012/13 NZAMH National Committe Contact Details McARTHUR, Val Admin. Assistant (07) 8556724 (027) 6183573 admin@nzamh.org.nz BRENCHLEY, Sarah Student Rep E: sbrenchleynz@xtra.co.nz CARRUTHERS, Robyn Committee member W: (09) 5269276 E: robyncarruthers@xtra.co.nz DUNN, Jill Committee member (09) 4159732 E: jilldunn@iconz.co.nz HALLIWELL, Leanne President (07) 866 0607 (027) 4588626 E: herbladywhiti@gmail.com HUTANA, Moana Committee member (06) 8733518 E: moanahutana@clear.net.nz JONES, Linda Conference Coordinator, Committee member (03) 3133591 (027) 5713968 E: linda.jones@xtra.co.nz

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McMENAMIN, Hannah Committee member (027) 4266018 E: hannmac@gmail.com RASMUSSEN, Phil Co-opt member (Fellow & ex-officio) (09) 834 8041 E: philrasm@ihug.co.nz RHODES, Craig Vice-president M: (021) 272 3357 E: craigr@practicepro.co.nz ROBERTSON, Kate Committee member kate@nectar.co.nz RUBIE, Sue Treasurer E: sue_rubie@hotmail.co.nz SUMMERS, Jesse Committee member E: jessejsummers@hotmail.com TAYLOR, Kimberly Secretary H (04) 9719639 M: 021 421 380 E: kimberly@zestnaturalhealth.co.nz

AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

Natural Health Council

Are you insured?

A Guide to Getting Professional Indemnity Insurance with the NHC Professional Indemnity insurance gives you the peace of mind to operate your practice confidently, safe in the knowledge that you’ll be covered if a claim is made against you, within the provisions outlined in the Policy. It also gives you access to specialists who assist in managing these types of scenarios and can provide you with support and advice.

Through our risk advisers Aon New Zealand, the NHC can offer NZAMH members a liability insurance package to cover members’ individual liability through a single policy that provides protection for medical professionals’ liability (Professional Indemnity insurance), product and personal injury liability (Public Liability) and fines and penalties (Statutory Liability).

What is Liability Insurance?

Professional Indemnity (PI) provides each member with their own protection designed to defend against allegations of professional negligence, acts, errors or omissions in the course of practising as a health care professional.

Product and Personal Injury Liability (PL) relates to your liability to others arising out of the ownership, occupation or use of property or products used in your profession.

Products include property sold, supplied, constructed, repaired or installed by you.

Fines and Penalties (SL) cover provides indemnity for fines or penalties that may be awarded against you by a tribunal, board or other regulatory body that has jurisdiction to investigate you and award fines.

Why Should I be Covered?

If you advise patients/clients or design treatment solutions for them, you run the risk of claims against you if your advice or treatment turns out to be unsatisfactory. This can happen to the most fastidious and capable of professionals.

Even if you’re not at fault, you may have to spend significant amounts on legal fees to prove that the liability isn’t yours.

Claims can come from upset clients who feel they have suffered additional expense or stress and/or consider your

performance was below professional standards. Sometimes complaints can come from the families, particularly when children are involved. Sometimes clients or their families are simply unhappy with the way they have been treated or feel their expectations have not been met.

These situations can result in complaints being made directly against you or sometimes directly to a higher authority such as the Health and Disability Commissioner or Commerce Commission.

Is Liability Insurance Compulsory?

Professional Indemnity, Public Liability and Statutory Liability insurance is not a compulsory requirement for natural health practitioners in New Zealand.

Who is Eligible?

As a full professional member of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists you are eligible to purchase Medical Professionals Liability insurance through the NHC at a significantly discounted rate. Please note that cover is not available to student members.

How Much Does it Cost?

The annual premium for 2013-14 is $145.00 incl GST increasing to $265.00 incl GST for treatment of animals.

The insurance period begins 01 April 2013 and ends 01 April 2014 at 4pm. Please note that there is no pro-rata discount for payments received after 01 April – you will be covered from the date your payment is received.

How Do I Purchase Cover?

If you would like to take up Professionals Liability insurance for the 2013/14 period please email the NHC administrator: admin@naturalhealthcouncil.org.nz and an application form will be sent to you. 3

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

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Business Management

Business Management:

Helping your practice succeed

By Craig Rhodes MNZAMH

Creating a Positive and Prosperous Practice Since 2008, for many Natural Health Practitioners (including Medical Herbalists) things have been tough. But after almost five years of a ‘rubbish’ economy, enough is enough.

It’s time to take back control of our destinies and create positive and prosperous practices in 2013.

Here are our 5 Simple Steps to Creating a Positive and Prosperous Practice in 2013: 1. Be Amazing Do your patient’s think you’re amazing, or are they just coming a few times and melting away? Any practitioner (and every practitioner) has the potential to be consistantly amazing to their patients and to rock their patient’s world. All it takes is a passionate and genuine patient focus, to exceed your patient’s expectations every time.

To transform your practice from a practitioner focus (“I’m a Herbalist or a Naturopath”) into a tool to enable the greatness of your patients, ask every patient what they want.

Then give them even more.

2. Do what You do the Best, not the cheapest Being the best at what you do is always better than being the cheapest, but you don’t need to specialise to be the best; it’s not about being a great clinician.

Being the best is about being: • The best match for your patients’ needs, i.e. being amazing (see above) • Offering the best value or outcomes – not the lowest price • Adding value to you patients by offering ‘extras’ that can help patients get better outcomes.

• Charging based on the health outcomes you can offer, not what you think you’re worth. Practitioners are notorious for undervaluing what they do.

When you are the best match to your patients and offer the best value, what you offer is often worth more to you patients than you think it is.

3. Make Some Noise So you’re the best (see above) and have some amazing skills to help people. So why not tell them!

Get out in your community and offer to help - whether it’s the checkout operator at the supermarket, or holding a seminar at the local preschool or bowling club, get out there!

The same applies with your advertising and other promotions, give up telling people what you do and start offering to help. The more people you make the offer to the better. Not everyone will be ready to take you up, but if you never offer both you and the patient lose out.

Use testimonials on your website and marketing material to let potential patients see that you’re amazing, and the best that what you do. (cntd. on next page)

NZAMH Practitioner Resources NZAMH has a variety of resources to help support you in your practice as well as promote the NZAMH and herbal medicine. These are non-profit items available only to NZAMH members. Items may be viewed in the members section on our website: www.nzamh.org.nz ITEM

PRICE INCL. GST

Patient Guides Tri-fold brochure to give to patients explaining herbal medicine.

Free

Prescription Pads 50 pages

$2.00 each or 6 for $10.00

Bumper Stickers “New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists” “Herbs The First Medicine” “Herbal Medicine Natures Longest Clinical Trial”

$1.50 each or 4 for $5.00

Bottle Labels

$10.00 per bundle of 100

N/B - Prices do not include P & P, please add $5.00 to your order Please contact Val if you would like to order: email: admin@nzamh.org.nz or phone: (07) 8556724

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

4. Have a plan (and make it happen) Know what you want to achieve for 2013 (and beyond) then break it down into bite sized pieces. Within days you’ll have a plan to transform your practice for 2013 and a step by step plan to reach your practice goals.

Then, most importantly, make it happen. The universe doesn’t owe you a living, but it will reward your hard work and passion. Take action, be proactive, and create your dreams.

5. Guarantee what you do Guarantees give new patients more confidence to book to see you, but be aware that the NZAMH code of ethics requires that: ‘Practitioners shall not give guarantees regarding the results of any treatment nor exploit a patient for financial gain through inferences or misrepresentations of any sort’.

You can still guarantee what you do by offering service rather than health guarantees.

Maybe guarantee something like one of these: "I guarantee that if at your 1st appointment you are not convinced that I can help you then the 1st appointment is free" "I guarantee that if your health doesn’t improve while following my treatment plan I’ll treat you for free until you’re back on track" Both of the above guarantees are service guarantees, not outcome guarantees. All they promise is that you’ll do your job well, something you should be doing anyway.

(BONUS) Get help You don’t have to ‘do it all’ all by yourself, you are allowed to get help. There is no need, or badge of honour in making mistakes that others have made before, or having a struggling practice when there are people out there more than willing to help.

Whether it’s as simple as joining the NZAMH Yahoo group; finding a practice mentor if you’re starting out, or a business coach (such as ours at PracticePro), learn, and get support from those around you who are willing to help.

Creating a fabulous, positive and prosperous practice is easy, so why not get out there and make it happen in 2013.

If not now, when – there are thousands of potential patients out there who need your help. 3 Craig is currently the NZAMH Vice President having been both Treasurer and President, and has run both a successful General Practice and Specialist Allergy, Asthma and Eczema Clinic.

He now runs PracticePro, a business helping practitioners and other small business owners run thriving successful businesses, and teaches practice management at the New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine and South Pacific College of Natural Medicine.

NZAMH Branch Meetings Northland Contact Shirley Belcher (09) 438 3144 shirley@wtp.co.nz Auckland Central City: Contact Ange Haldane E: ange@naturalange.co.nz Harvest Natural Health Centre, 407A Richmond Rd, Grey Lynn.

South Auck: Contact: Maureen Verrill E: healinghands.herbs@gmail.com North Shore: Contact Mary Allan E: maryallan77@yahoo.co.nz West Auck., Volunteer needed Waikato 4th Monday every month, 7.30 pm Contact Val McArthur H: (07) 855 6724; M: (027) 618 3573 E: val@herbaltouch.co.nz Te Aroha Contact Tina Brown: (07) 884 4018, E: vanbrown@xtra.co.nz Tauranga Contact Jenny Ager-Pratt (07) 552 0697 E: dreams@eol.co.nz Hawkes Bay Contact Melissa Jull (027) 4192095 E: melissajull@ruralinzone.net Whanganui Contact Kim Fielder E: herbaceousnz@gmail.com (06) 344 8087 M: (027) 3073062 Manawatu/Horowhenua Contact Ros Arnott (06) 355 4556 or Sara Hamer (021) 064 6187 (06) 362 7227 E: affinity@slingshot.co.nz Wellington Contact Kimberly Taylor M: (021) 338603, (04) 9719639 E: Kimberly@zestnaturalhealth.co.nz Nelson Contact Anni Tekotua (03) 5488158 E: tekotua@slingshot.co.nz Christchurch Contact Richard Whelan (03) 356 1118 E: herbalist@rjwhelan.co.nz

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

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Suffering PMS symptoms?

Effective Natural Once a day New research confirms Premular dosage is superior*

Premular® Proven PMS support.

Period. *Schellenberg, R., et al. Dose-dependent efficacy of Vitex agnus castus extract Ze 440 in patients suffering premenstrual syndrome. Phythomedicine (2012)

PRACTICE BASED ONCOLOGY SUPPORT Australia and New Zealand Seminar Series

Auckland, Saturday 11th May 2013 2 - 6pm The Spencer on Byron Hotel Takapuna Beach

Early bird ends Friday 12th April, 2013 For further details or to book your seat, please visit www.biomedica.com.au Bookings may also be made through Pacific Health and Fitness P 0800 77 11 88 or E sales@pachealth.co.nz

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www.flordis.com.au

Going beyond theory to relevant clinical practice

Presented By Garth Harris BSc (Biomed) Join Garth Harris, one of Australia’s foremost integrative oncology practitioners, for this innovative seminar as he draws on 25 years of experience to provide you with an easy to understand, step-by-step process for supporting your cancer patients. With an emphasis on real clinical cases and pathology, the focus will be on getting the basics right, what to do and when to do it, as well as strategies for various cancer types.

This innovative seminar will enable you to: • Become confident in your case taking abilities and prescribing priorities across a range of cancer types • Understand the concepts of over treatment and over diagnosis • Improve your pathology test result interpretation skills • Identify treatment realities as well as become familiar with what NOT to do when supporting cancer patients • Uncover the hard facts about controversial issues such as prescribing antioxidants with chemotherapy and the validity of genetic testing • Provide the best oncology support possible by gaining valuable insights into how to work successfully with cancer patients at an appropriate level for each particular case

Don’t miss out - Strictly limited seating!

AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

Local News

Ethical Business Growth Becomes a Reality

ARTEMIS Natural Healthcare wins at the Westpac Otago Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards

Ethical business growth? The two don’t quite marry right?

D unedin business ARTEMIS Natural Healthcare proved that this can be a reality at the 2012 Westpac Otago Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards. ARTEMIS took out the Ethics Award among what the organizers said had been the stiffest competition in the history of the awards.

This award follows their success at the Deloitte Fast50 in the same month where they won the Lower South Island and Otago’s fastest growing manufacturer, proving that Ethical Business Growth is indeed possible.

Sandra Clair, Managing Director and build this business, but by doing so we Founder of Artemis says, are contributing to healthier communities “It has been a hard road building a natural and building a stronger platform for a healthcare business in New Zealand. sustainable long-term business success.”

Health is people’s first wealth and in New ARTEMIS was founded in 1998 by Zealand, like any other western country, Medical Herbalist Sandra Clair to meet the trend for chronic degenerative diseases the demand of her natural remedies by is increasing and impacts severely on our her clients of her clinic. Now ARTEMIS quality of life. is one of New Zealand’s leading Mass produced medicine, both natural healthcare companies offering conventional and alternative, provide professional strength, organic products ineffective health solutions as they are suitable for the entire family. See www. often of poor quality as the company is artemis.co.nz for further information. driven by profit margins not the health of their customers. Using Ethical Business practices may have taken us longer to

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

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Feature Article

Your Skin

By Michael J McCammon N.D., Medical Herbalist MNZAMH

H

erbalists can have no greater joy, frustration or greater choice of remedies and approach than when working with skin diseases. This small article cannot possibly cover this vast topic, and is intended to give a synopsis of what occurs in my practice.

Skin

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Michael J McCammon is an experienced naturopath, iridologist and registered medical herbalist. He has been working with the healing power of nature in clinical practice for over thirty-five years. His interests include history, archaeology, permaculture, and the use of herbs and nutrition to help individuals realize the power "hidden" within both themselves and the natural world of trees, shrubs and herbs. Michael's system of healing is simple yet profound in action Michael currently lives in Christchurch, he can be contacted on: Phone: 03 332 1786.

Web: www.nzherbal.com

The skin is the body’s largest organ covering an area of about 21 square feet (1.9 square metres).

Draped in place over our bodies, skin forms the barrier between our internal systems and the outside world. Skin protects us from a multitude of external forces and serves as an avenue to our most intimate physical and psychological selves. The skin is the most reliable sense organ we have to detect uncomfortable “vibes” presented before our conscious awareness. The sense of touch can also be a remarkable barometer of who is safe and who isn’t.

The skin is less than a millimetre thick (0.04 inch) in places, and is composed of three impervious yet permeable barrier layers. The outermost layer is the bloodless epidermis. The dermis includes collagen, elastic, and nerve endings. The innermost layer, subcutaneous fat, contains tissue that acts as an energy source, cushion and insulator for the body.

From these familiar characteristics of skin emerge the profound mysteries of touch, arguably our most essential source of sensory stimulation. We can live without seeing or hearing - in fact, without any of our other senses. But babies born without effective nerve connections between skin and brain can fail to thrive and may even die. Young children who are not lovingly touched regularly are very likely to develop psychological problems.

Skin problems commonly present in the Herbalists practice – complaints anything from unsightly pimples to irritating rashes, dry skin, inflamed skin and the more serious eczema and psoriasis. As Herbalists we recognise that anything the skin does is a reflection of what is happening internally within the body and mind. The skin must never be seen in isolation, but as a tissue reflecting the health and functionality of other organs including the nervous system.

There are three main types of skin conditions, they are:

Nervous: This type of skin condition manifests as dry or scaly skin, itching, distension or constipation. It is aggravated by stress, wind and dryness and alleviated by the application of heavy oils (especially sesame oil). People with this type of skin condition need lots of water and fresh, but well cooked food. Raw food, dryness and cold aggravate the condition. Nervine tonics are to be considered here such as Chamomile, Passion f lower, Skullcap, St Johns wort, Valerian and Wood betony.

Inflammatory: This type of skin condition is characterised by redness, swelling, fever, infection and irritability. The condition tends to worsen with increased heat, anger, hot spices and exposure to the sun. Most oils will make the condition worse. Food allergies are almost always associated with inflammatory skin conditions especially salicylates. People with this type of skin conditions tend to be sensitive to petrochemicals and food preservatives. When dealing with inflammatory skin conditions choose herbs low in salicylates such as Rehmannia, dandelion and celery seed.

Congestive: This skin condition is the result of toxic build-up – often mucus or catarrh in the system which builds up and is eventually eliminated by the skin. It involves oozing or weeping sores, with congestion, oedema and itching. The condition tends to be aggravated by dampness and cold, as well as oils. Wheat, dairy, fried and “junk” food is often behind the condition. Anti congestives are most beneficial here such as Burdock, Dandelion root, Figwort, Fringe tree, Oregon grape and Red clover.

Many people with skin problems tend to have a combination of the three different types of skin conditions - a total of seven underlying types. However, one type of skin condition tends to be dominant and is usually focused on for treatment.

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

Feature Article The causes of skin conditions are many and varied and include wrong diet, too much use of sour, salty or pungent tastes; foods that are too heavy, sweet or oily; drinking of alcohol; exposure to the elements; constipation and over use of cosmetics. The most common underlying cause is a disturbance or dysfunction of the five channels of elimination which are the bowel, liver, kidney, lymphatic system and lungs.

The blood stream becomes toxic and the skin is used as a vicarious (abnormal) means of eliminating what is mostly acidic and toxic waste. The ‘escaping’ acid waste causes inflammation and heat on the surface of the skin whereas prior to the condition the waste was diluted somewhat by internal body fluids. In other words the skin is now dealing with the overload of inadequate internal elimination.

How Skin Diseases Develop Like many conditions, skin conditions don’t just happen. Any condition can be broken down into a series of steps. Most skin conditions tend to follow the following path: 1. Accumulation: The disease usually begins in the stomach, small intestine or colon. Waste or undigested material creates a blockage in the system that leads to fatigue, heaviness, bloating and indigestion.

2. Aggravation: As the toxins increase the tissues become more aggravated and will be noticed in other parts of the body as well, yet may not manifest as skin disease. There may be loss of appetite, pain or spasm, indigestion, nausea, and heaviness in the head or oversleeping. Over acidity may be apparent such as heartburn or burning sensations in the abdomen, lowered energy or insomnia.

3. Overflow: Once the original site of the disease is full of toxins it will begin to overflow into the rest of the body.

Toxins will migrate to the circulating blood and plasma and then eventually seep into other organs and eventually to the lymphatic system which will in turn direct the offending waste to the skin for elimination.

4. Moving and Localisation at a Distant Site: The skin itself is a distant site from the source of the problem, but is an effective way to eliminate if one or more of the five channels of elimination are defective. Commonly, the lower bowel accumulates the excess waste. Even at this fourth stage of disease healing is still simple.

5. Manifestation: By the time a skin disease erupts the conditions of its creation have been organising themselves for some time. This is why any external applications cannot effectively cure unless the skin condition is acute and local (i.e. caused by external infection or trauma). The vast majority of skin conditions are the results of the previous four processes.

6. Distinction/Chronic Complications: This is where the condition has existed for some time and various methods of suppression have been tried. Secondary infections become a problem as opportunistic airborne bacteria colonise the already weakened skin defences. Suppression with steroid creams invariably worsens the condition over time and causes other deeper side effects not always initially apparent. Further and persistent suppressive measures

including overuse of antibiotics and steroids can even drive the now saturated toxic levels to other organs such as the lungs manifesting as asthma or bronchitis. Many of today’s diseases may have their origin in the suppression of skin diseases in the past with mercury creams, sulphur and steroids.

Healing Skin Conditions • The explanation of skin conditions from mainstream medicines point of view will vary, but the causes will never be addressed.

The patient will usually be told (if they are lucky enough get any explanation at all) that the condition is: bacterial, fungal, viral infection, stress, hereditary or idiopathic (meaning ‘unknown’).

A referral to a skin ‘specialist’ will often follow for more serious cases. Steroids will be a common prescription.

None of these explain the condition because skin conditions are a process involving many factors. Skin conditions are little understood by current medical practice yet are understood and treated most effectively by naturopathic, herbal and homeopathic philosophy and treatment.

There are many considerations when addressing skin conditions: The Digestive System This long winding tube of around 6 metres long has lots of ‘nooks and crannies’ (i.e. the tube folds up like a concertina to fit in the space). Imagine all the food some of your patients eat in one day – some of it probably contains wheat, dairy and other foods that tends to cause congestion – imagine putting this in a blender!

Gradually, layers of redundant material remain, this material gradually becomes toxic and inhibits digestion and assimilation of nutrients. The intestinal wall is permeable, becomes damaged and allows toxic material to ‘leak’ into your blood stream and lymphatic system. If other organs and glands are functioning less than optimally your body then will use the skin to eliminate these offending and acidic wastes.

Parasites Over two thirds of our patients will have parasites. There are four levels or degrees of severity. These four levels range from acute infections through sub acute down to chronic and lastly degenerative. Their presence is most easily detected in the iris of the eye in the form of dark radiating lines from the ciliary border towards the periphery of the iris. The different shades of colour – white to black acute to chronic. Parasites secrete toxic waste (termed ‘verminous intoxication’) – commonly called ‘leaky gut syndrome’. A large number of cases of childhood eczema presented here in clinic turned out to be caused by parasites.

Eliminate these offending unwanted guests and many of these skin conditions clear up. In cases of eczema it can take around three months to effectively eliminate parasites. We believe herbs are best for ridding the body of parasites as herbal vermifuges not only destroy the parasite, but are safe to use in the prescribed dosage and also eventually assist the body to build its own immunity to help avoid re-infection.

Kidneys As herbalists we are acutely away of the importance of kidneys as organs of blood purification. One of their main roles is to filter the blood stream of toxic byproducts from normal breakdown

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

13

Feature Article of proteins and other food. They also help to keep a healthy chemical balance. These bean shaped organs located near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage filter the blood and remove about 2 quarts of waste products from the physiology daily. Waste and water become urine. Sometimes the kidneys become burdened or encumbered with too much toxic waste and the filtration function fails to filter the blood properly. The skin then tends to take over from the dysfunctional kidneys. Kidney herbs are well known such as Buchu, Dandelion leaf, Urva Ursi etc, and a selection is best made according to the predominant Dosha. Urinary antiseptics, diuretics etc. tend to aggravate both Pitta and Vata skin conditions so the addition of emollients and anti-inflammatories such as marshmallow and liquorice to the formula is essential.

Liver The principal roles of the liver include cleansing toxins from the blood and processing food nutrients into proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The liver produces bile, which is stored in the gall bladder and added to the digestive tract via bile ducts to help break down dietary fats. My favourite herb for the Liver is Chelidonium (Greater Celandine ) Only small almost homeopathic doses of this are needed ranging from 5 drops to 3 mls daily of Mother tincture.

Lymph The lymphatic system is a crucial part of our immune system and principal route for the reduction of toxins in our bodies.

Movement and exercise are very important components of moving lymph. Inactivity, toxins, stress, and disease all create a heavy workload for this system, which is an integral part of the body’s purification process. Working at peak performance, the lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins, waste material, bacteria, and excess fluid – all essential factors in healing skin problems. Good lymphatic cleansers are Burdock, Poke root, and Clivers.

The lymph fluid originates from the interstitial fluid, the watery environment that surrounds the cells of our bodies. The lymphatic system is present in every tissue of the body except the brain and spinal cord and is a primary detoxification system or ‘garbage disposal’ system. As such, it plays a significant role in our immune response to foreign particles.

Nervous system The skin is arguably the most sensitive organ we have and in cases of problem skin it is very common to have underlying psychological factors with feelings described for example as “ you get under my skin” or this “makes my skin crawl”. I had a musician friend whose normally beautiful skin would break out in the most horrendous and angry itchy rash within an hour prior to his musical performances – always faultless and beautiful music, but this would happen every time. Herbs to consider would be Withania, Vervain, Lemon balm, Oats with Withania being my personal favourite. St Johns wort can be useful in nervous skin conditions provided there is a good amount of liquorice with it to avoid the skin sensitivity occasionally experienced with Hypericum.

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

The Constitutional picture For those of you trained in Ayurveda the next thing is to decide which Dosha is the most imbalanced. This knowledge enables the practitioner to narrow down the selection of herbs from a host of possibles including how much of each. Ayurveda gives the Body type and Iridology gives an excellent picture of Constitutional type. However both Iridology and Ayurveda in relationship to Herbal Medicine are large topics, and would require another article.

Foods for the Skin • The best foods for the skin are really those rich in vitamin A, C, silica, carotenoids and bioflavonoids and the phytochemicals lycopene and anthocyanins. Fish oils may help prevent and relieve the symptoms of psoriasis, an inflammatory skin disease characterised by red, dry, scaly skin, pain and itching.

You should encourage your patient to eat a ‘rainbow salad’ every day (a salad containing many different coloured vegetables).

A good skin nourishing diet could contain at least one raw carrot, one stick of celery and one apple per day. Just this alone can help many skin conditions. Make sure your patient drinks at least 1 ½ litres of filtered water daily to flush the kidneys and body fluids of offending wastes which are always present in skin conditions and at least six vegetables daily, two fruits and one good source protein. Green leafy vegetables contain a huge amount of nutrients for the skin. Good food sources of antioxidants are: ΏΏ Carotenoids: brightly coloured fruit and vegetables eg carrots, pumpkins, tomato, corn, spinach, peach and paprika. ΏΏ Ascorbic acid: citrus fruit, berries, brussel sprouts, broccoli, capsicum, buckwheat ΏΏ Tocopherols: vegetable and wheat germ oil, seed- like cereal grains, nuts, avocado, olives and eggs ΏΏ Flavonoids: berries, apples, citrus fruits, broccoli, capsicum, onion, tea, wine. ΏΏ Catechins (polyphenols): berries, green tea ΏΏ Anthocyanins: berries ΏΏ Lignans: linseed, legumes, e.g. soya beans; sesame seed ΏΏ Indoles: broccoli, brussel sprouts ΏΏ Isothiocyanates: horseradish, mustard, radish

Case study Atopic Eczema Cali presented with the most severe case of Atopic eczema I had ever seen. Itchy, inflamed skin from head to toe. In the 2 ½ years since Cali was born she had been seen by nine doctors, paediatricians and skin specialists. Not one of them was able to achieve anything but temporary mild improvement. Despite almost constant use of steroid creams, emulsifiers, and antibiotics when Cali’s raw skin became infected, and her condition showed no signs of improvement. At worst her face was described as ‘pulp’ and the greasy emulsifiers used to keep her skin moist made her difficult to handle. At best she was covered by an angry red rash

Feature Article all over, except for the tip of her nose and the soles of her feet.

Most days her skin was so inflamed it would spit and crack at the elbows and knees when she moved. Drugs had made Cali photosensitive so she could rarely be out in the sun for longer than a few minutes. On one occasion her Mother was abused in town by a woman who thought she had allowed her baby to get burnt. Cali had been an asthmatic virtually since birth.

Observations Cali had a particularly nasty parasite infection, this could be seen in the eyes as extreme black Radii solaris parasite lines in the iris, indicating leaky gut and associated immune compromise and nutritional deficiencies. Her asthma was exacerbated by the use of steroids. As herbalists we recognise the suppressing effects of steroids and the classic phenomena whereby suppression of skin rashes ‘migrate’ to the lungs. Of the number of suspected parasites was ascaris lumbrosides, which typically invades the lung tissues as part of its life cycle.

Herbal Treatment

• Blood Purifying Tonic Echinacea ang/purp

1:2

25 ml

Taraxacum officinale (radix)

1:2

20 ml

Smilax ornata 1:2 15 ml Urtica dioica (folia)

1:2

15 ml

Glycerhizza glabra

1:2

10 ml

Arctium lappa

1:2

5 ml

Avena sativa

1:2

10 ml

100 ml

Dose: 3 mls 3 times daily Rationale: Alterative action addressing the kidneys, lymph, immune and nervous system.

• Vermifuge Formula Juglans nigra

1:10

100 ml

Artemisia annua

1:2

25 ml

Tabebuia spp.

1:2

75 ml

Citrus seed extract

0.5 ml 200.5 ml

Dose: 3 ml evenings Rationale: For parasite infection including candida Additionally: ΏΏ Kawakawa ointment was applied daily.

3 weeks later Cali’s skin had improved markedly with areas of normal skin appearing for the first time on her face. Her bowels were moving better and her asthma symptoms were abating. Cali had several exacerbations when the skin would become angry and inflamed.

However, each time the healing process followed ‘Herings Law of Cure’ with healing beginning from inside out and the symptoms abating from above down.

• Herbal Respiratory Formula A practitioner range herbal formula (easily available in NZ through one of our usual suppliers) containing: Elecampane, Euphorbia, Ginger, Grindelia, Liquorice root, Oil of fennel, Mullein Dose: 2 mls after each meal in fruit juice.

3 months later Almost 75% of Cali’s body was showing normal skin. In her mothers own words she says that her daughter has improved beyond belief, “The neighbours told me they had heard her laughing for the first time – she is much happier and she is playing like a normal child”.

6 months later Cali continued to improve although the dietary advice was not followed comprehensively – not uncommon in practice!

Her mother Wanda was finding the expenses difficult and was struggling with social welfare to support her. Her struggle lead her to the point where an article (instigated by her mother) appeared in the Gisborne Herald about Cali’s case and plight.

The article focused on Cali’s improvement through natural treatment and appealed for government assistance. About one month previous to this I had written to the, at the time, Minister of Health Hon. Bill English regarding this issue of affordability for lower income patients and he kindly replied. To quote in part: "...I agree that naturopathic and homeopathic treatments have a contribution to make in our health system. Within a system that focuses on patient care, it should be the needs of the patient that determine the services available, rather than vice versa, some of these needs may be better met by naturopathic or homeopathic treatments." (Hon Bill English) He suggested that: "An alternative may be to explore local solutions with Independent Practice Associations and Crown health enterprises to see whether it is possible to contribute within collaborative or integrated care arrangements."

3

ΏΏ A gluten free diet was encouraged along with increased green vegetables and less junk food. Cali was very fond of potato chips and the like. ΏΏ Sufficient water and salt was advised

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

15

Fertility & Reproductive Health

Is the Chance of Conception Reduced with

One Ovary or Fallopian Tube?

By Yvonne Gattung B.Soc.Sci, DipMedHerb, ND, MNNZ, MNZAMH

W

elcome to the regular column Fertility and Reproductive Health. If you have any particular topic you would like me to write about, please let me know. (Yvonne)

2

O

varies are the primary reproductive organs of the female.

Their function is to produce ova and sex hormones. Like the testes, the ovaries are paired with each ovary being oval in shape, about 4 cm long, 2cm wide and 1cm thick. One ovary is located each side of the uterus and they are held in place by the ovarian ligament, suspensory ligament and mesovarium.

The outer covering of the ovary is the tunica albuginea and comprises fibrous epithelium tissue. Internally, the ovary has two layers – the cortex and medulla. Most of the ovarian cortex is made up to highly vascular connective tissue termed stroma. Embedded within this tissue are the ovarian follicles.

The follicles are sac-like structures. Each contains an immature egg cell called the ova/oocyte.

(The words, ovum and egg are interchangeable. Oocyte seems to be defined slightly differently depending on your source - in some, it is a synonym for ovum, in others it is the ovum pre-conception, or once it is mature. Hence, it appears, you can use these terms interchangeably.)

As the follicles mature their structure and name changes.

The most immature ovarian follicles are the primordial follicles and are present in the ovaries of newborn girls. The second developmental stage is the primary follicle when the oocyte gains more layers and granulose cells. The third stage of development is the secondary follicle. At this stage the granulose cells secrete a fluid containing a high concentration of oestrogen. It is the pooling of this fluid within the centre of the follicle which pushes the oocyte to the side of the ovary.

Finally it develops into the graafian follicle where the fluid filled ovarian follicle moves to the surface of the ovary and as it enlarges it forms a bulge on the surface of the ovary.

In adult women usually one Graafian follicle ruptures each month releasing the oocyte at ovulation. After ovulation, cells of the ruptured ovarian follicle change in structure known as luteinization. They form a new structure, called the corpus luteum which secretes large amounts of progesterone and oestrogen.

If a woman conceives, the corpus luteum persists and continues producing hormones to support the pregnancy until the placenta has developed (around 10-12 weeks). If conception does not occur, the corpus luteum starts to generate about 12 days after ovulation. The degenerating corpus luteum leaves a fibrous scar in the ovary called the corpus albicans. (1)

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

At birth Between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, the ovaries of a female foetus contain 6 to 7 million oocytes. Most of the oocytes gradually waste away, leaving about 1 to 2 million present at birth. None develop after birth. A baby girl is born with all of the primordial follicles she will have for her lifetime. At puberty, only about 300,000 (more than enough for a lifetime of fertility) remain. Only a small percentage (about 400) of oocytes mature. The many thousands of oocytes that do not mature, degenerate. Degeneration progresses more rapidly in the 10 to 15 years before menopause. All are (apparently) gone by menopause.

Only about 400 eggs are released during a woman’s reproductive life, usually one during each menstrual cycle. Until released, an egg remains dormant in its follicle—suspended in the middle of a cell division and as such is more susceptible to damage as the woman ages. (2) At the time of puberty, her hypothalamus starts secreting gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) which stimulates her anterior pituitary gland to secrete both follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

It is these gonadotrophins that act on the ovaries to stimulate the development of the ovarian follicles. The levels of GnRH continues to increase for about 4 years. Eventually the adult pattern of GnRH secretion develops and effective interaction between the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, ovaries and their respective hormones is established.

Ovulation In any month, there are always several follicles at different stages of maturation. How the body decides which will become the dominant follicle, how this is selected, or how it selects itself is still uncertain. (3) There is no ‘rule’ concerning which ovary will ovulate, it is possible to ovulate from alternate ovaries, (4) it is also possible to ovulate more frequently from one side compared to the other. There is no way of predicting this beforehand and the only way to know at ovulation which ovary is/has ovulated is by ultrascan or noting the swelling of the lymph gland on the side on which ovulation has occurred. Even ovarian pain (Mittelschmerz – meaning pain in the middle) on a particular side of the body, does not guarantee ovulation has occurred at this side. This can indicate which ovary is active, but even if one is defective, it can still cause pain. (5)

Fertility & Reproductive Health Hence, what happens if one ovary or one fallopian tube is not present? Does the woman’s chances of ovulation and thereby conception halve, or does the lone remaining ovary step up and ovulate monthly? If a fallopian tube has been removed, do the ovaries change their behaviour?

I do not think these questions have ever been fully answered. The human body has amazing inbuilt healing mechanisms and if the woman’s mental, emotional, physical health are all focused on conception (in a positive way) might it be possible that her body responds to this and the remaining ovary with the normal fallopian tube ovulates every month.

Over the years I have treated many women with one ovary or a missing fallopian tube. The most common reason I have come across for the loss of a fallopian tube is a previous ectopic pregnancy especially if it has ruptured. Reasons for ovary removal include ovarian cancer, ovarian cysts that have enlarged to involve the entire ovary or medical misadventure ( imagine the distress to find you have had an ovary removed by mistake).

Case study Presenting Complaint ‘ Jack’ and ‘Jill’ both 38 years of age, had been trying to have their family for the last 5 years.

3 years ago their first conception resulted in an ectopic pregnancy which led to the loss of one fallopian tube. They have a two year old daughter (normal conception) and 8 months ago, experienced their first miscarriage at 10 weeks.

Past medical history Jill has had mild PCOS diagnosed in the past when ultra sound scans indicated numerous cysts. Jill then consulted a nutritionalist who assisted her with her diet and she still follows these guidelines. While her weight decreased to ‘normal’ BMI levels and her menstrual cycle became regular they have been unsuccessful in their quest for another child.

No other past medical history of note for either Jack or Jill.

Social/family history They are a ‘health’ conscious family and do not smoke or drink alcohol. Jill has been gluten free, wheat and dairy fee for the past three years. Both work in administrative roles with Jack working full time and Jill three days a week. They enjoy cycling, gardening and home-life with their daughter. No past family history of note.

Physical Examination Both Jack and Jill presented as ‘healthy’, happy people. They acknowledged the gift they had in one daughter and while they would love another child, this would have to occur naturally, they were not intending to seek any Artificial Reproductive Technologies.

The Zinc taste test indicated a deficiency in Zinc with a slight taste – I gave them a score of 2. Iridological assessment of Jill’s eyes indicated sluggish digestion, this observation was supported by looking at her tongue diagnosis which displayed a white coating.

Medical testing At the first consultation, it was established that no sperm analysis had ever been completed. This was subsequently completed and the results were: Parameter

Jack

Normal

Pathological

Volume

1.2 mls

2-6 mls

<1.5 mls

Sperm count

86 million/ml >20 million/ml <10 million/ml

Motility

60%

>50%

<10%

Agglutination was absent, morphology was not tested.

Three months before the consultation, Jill had had tests for thyroid function, fasting glucose, liver function, iron studies including folate and haemoglobin, lipids, urine microbiology and they were normal. She had not had her hormone levels tested but we decided to commence treatment and test her day 2 FSH and testosterone levels later.

Treatment Due to financial constraints it was decided if the sperm test was within normal limits, Jack would continue with his healthy lifestyle and diet but would not take any medicines. (This is not ideal, but we live in the real world where these issues need to be accommodated) As the sperm count and motility were normal, he was advised to drink more water, as pure as he had access to, to increase the volume of ejaculate.

Herbal Formula: Herb Paeonia lactiflora

Concentration 1:2

Alchemilla vulgaris

1:2

25

Taraxacum officinale (radix)

1:2

20

Vitex agnus-castus

1:2

20

Glycyrrhiza glabra

1:1

10

TOTAL

Total 25

100ml

Dose: 7 mls bd until follow-up appointment 4 weeks later Additionally: xx Antioxidant powder xx

Liquid Zinc. Dose: 1 ml at night in 100 ml water

xx

Omega DHA. DoseL 2 capsules a day. Each capsule contained 800mg natural fish oil equiv. omega 3 marine triglycerides 272mg, equiv. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) 52 mg and equiv Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 220mg, plus some vitamin E.

xx

Multi vitamin and mineral - 2 tablets a day

Result: Jill conceived immediately, continued taking the omega DHA, zinc and multi vitamin and mineral throughout the pregnancy.

We used an anti-miscarriage formula and the pregnancy continued without incident.

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

17

Fertility & Reproductive Health The anti-miscarriage formula I used in this instance was: Capsella bursa-pastoris 1:2

20 ml

Viburnum opulus

1:2

20 ml

Vitex agnes-castus

1:2

20 ml

Chamaelirium luteum 1:2

20 ml

Paeonia lactiflora

20 ml

1:2

Dose: 2.5 ml/day* Nine months later their son was born healthy and as a new born settled into a routine easily and happily. *It is my experience that very little of this type of formula is needed.

Conclusion The ovaries are an amazing organ, unique to females, and can be the source of great joy. Being an internal organ, they are rarely seen, but their effects can control a womans life.

It is often thought that if either an ovary or fallopian tube are not present, then the woman's chances of pregnancy decrease by half. It is also generally accepted that if the couple is aged in their late 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with no fertility issues, they have about a 20% chance of conception each month, if there is one fertility issue the chance decreases to 5%, if two fertility issues this decreases to 1% and it is estimated it would take 7 years to conceive. (6) Our input as medical herbalists can change these statistics even if the fertility problem is the loss of an ovary or fallopian

18

AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

tube. At times we know very little about the true healing ability of our bodies and it is my clinical experience that there need be no delay in conception following the loss of an ovary or fallopian tube if all aspects of health are addressed. 3 References 1.

Marieb E, Human Anatomy and Physiology, 7th Edition, Chapter 27 - The Reproductive System 2. http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/womens_health_issues/ biology_of_the_female_reproductive_system/female_internal_ genital_organs.html#v801501 accessed January 2013 3. Marieb E, Human Anatomy and Physiology, 7th Edition, Chapter 27 - The Reproductive System 4. & 5 Naish F & Roberts J, The natural way to better babies Pg 227 5. 6. Gattung, Y: Module one, Practitioner Diploma in Fertility and Reproductive Health

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Yvonne has specialised in treating people with fertility and reproductive issues for the past 15 years. She is passionate about the value of preparation for pregnancy, and the benefits to the child, family, future generations and the planet as a whole when people are healthy.

Over the past 18 months she has rewritten the Practitioner Diploma in Fertility and Reproductive Health. To contact Yvonne go to www.herbalcentre.co.nz

Practitioner Diploma in Fertility and Reproductive Health 2013 SEMINARS: AUCKLAND • WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH

It is estimated that 1 in 6 couples from the Western World experience fertility problems, and more and more people are seeking help with their fertility. As natural therapists we have many tools we can use to assist everyone to have their beautiful healthy babies.

Whether you are new to practice or are an experienced practitioner, these three-day stimulating, practical seminars are your opportunity to increase your clientele, improve your clinical knowledge and outcomes, be inspired, have fun and learn from the best.

TOPICS COVERED INCLUDE The assessment and treatment of: • Preconception Health Care • Male and female fertility issues • Miscarriage prevention • Maximising IVF and more

• • • •

Sex selection Charting including the lunar cycle Medical testing Promotion and marketing

SEMINAR FACILITATORS:

Yvonne Gattung B.Soc.Sci, ND, Dip Herb Med, Dip HP, MNNZ, MNZAMH Yvonne has specialised in treating people with fertility and reproductive issues for the last 15 years and has taught practitioners the art of Natural Fertility Management for the last 5 years.

Sara Hamer BA, Dip Phytotherapy, Dip A & P, Cert Adult Ed, National Cert. Adult literacy & Numeracy, MNZAMH Sara has been a medical herbalist since the mid-1990s. For the last 15 years, Sara has run her own consultancy and taught at a variety of herbal training institutions in the UK and New Zealand.

Auckland

22-24 April 2013

The Ritz, Greenlane

Wellington

25-27 April 2013

The Trinity Hotel

Christchurch

Airport Gateway Motor Lodge Accommodation is available at each venue 29 April – May 1 2013

For more information and registration:

www.herbalcentre.co.nz

Enquiries: yvonne@herbalcentre.co.nz or phone (07) 829 7527

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

19

Herbal Manufacturing

summer-autumn harvest with rixt

About the Author Rixt Botello, a 'grass roots' herbalist', has a deep affinity with the plant world and gathers her medicine when needed. She lives with her husband Leon and their family on a 50 acre farm with native bush in the far North. Here she gathers many of her medicines to manufacture herbal healing products, creams, oils and herbal medicines.

Rixt has ben a practicing Medical Herbalist, Aromatherapist and Bach Flower Practitioner for 20 years. She has tutored in many subjects in Natural Meidicne nationwide at Herbal (as HOD), Naturopathic, Community and Massage Colleges and at University for midwives. She also shares her knowledge in the community for plunket, associations and kindergartens, primary, homeschool and high school groups.

Rixt specializes in the treatment of mental health problems as well as pregnancy, childbirth and childrens health.

Rixt believes that the healing of our selves lies within us - and with support and guidance, everyone can empower themselves to a healthy state of balance.

Rixt Botello is Co-Director or The Nomadic School of Health together with her husband Leon Botello. They can travel to you to give you the education you desire or need. Rixt can be contacted by email on bachnz@ps.gen.nz or phone 09 406 1971.

20

D

uring summertime and autumn, it is the season to gather the f lowers from Mullein (Verbascum thapsus).

Mullein has beautiful little yellow fragrant flowers which are delightful and produce daily from the tall rod like flower rising from its woolly soft, light grey-green leaves.

Mullein is naturalised in many parts of New Zealand, often growing abundantly from the central North Island heading south. Not really fussy where she grows, mullein can often be seen growing in seemingly infertile hill sides and land and is regarded by some as a pest.

Here in the Far North she does not flourish in the wild as much, and so I cultivate her in my gardens.

But after only one year of growth mullein now self-seeds everywhere and spreads rapidly and happily.

Every day I pick her flowers from late spring until late autumn. The more I pick, the more she produces.

There is a special way to harvest mullein in order to prevent the

flowers from bruising. Harvesting in this way will preserve their yellow colour and keep them medicinally viable.

Picking Mullein Flowers

It speaks for itself that f lowers and plant need to be dry when harvesting, so early morning after the dew has dried is the preferred time.

If harvested incorrectly or too roughly, the flowers will bruise and brown upon drying and it is said they then lose their natural therapeutic qualities. The trick is to gently put your fingers on the outer sides of the flowers and gently tug.

I am a medical herbalist who always asks the plant and thanks them after the harvest. This can be done by song, prayer, karakia or any way of speech, internal or external.

I do not own a special drying room, so I dry the flowers in my large hot water cupboard. They usually dry completely within two days.

Herbal Manufacturing

HERBal oil infusions

A

lthough herbal oil can be made with fresh herbs, I do not recommend this as the possibility of the oil becoming rancid or mouldy is greater due to the water content in the fresh plant. Because of this I usually make oils with dried herbs, unless I am also intending to draw the essential oil from the plant. So generally I dry most of my herbs prior to maceration with the oil.

The types of herbs I gather during this time of year are: red clover (Trifolium pratense), daisy flowers (Bellis perennis), borage (Borago officinalis) flowers and leaves, and calendula (Calendula officinalis) flowers. These are all dried first, the same way as the mullein flowers.

St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) can also be macerated using the same process, but unfortunately I am not able to do this as I find it is too warm for this plant to grow successfully up north where I live.

However, there are times when I will infuse certain flowers in their fresh state into oil. One such plant that I do infuse fresh are the flowers of the Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) plant. This is so that the infused herbal oil retains the essential oil and fragrance from this plant. (See recipe overleaf).

Mullein Oil Mullein flower oil is primarily used for the ears as ear drops.

It can also used as a joint rub for painful joints caused by either arthritis or injury, and as a chest rub for coughs, colds and asthma.

I make ear drops with mullein and other herbs. I also add an essential oil and flower essences - this synergistic combination enhances its therapeutic properties. This oil is then used not only for ear aches, itchy and waxy ears, but also teething.

Ingredients Cold pressed organic olive oil* 250 ml Dried mullein flowers 15 gms or enough to fill a 250ml glass jar. *The best olive oil is extracted using the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cold pressed methodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. In this technique the seeds, fruits or nuts are expressed without external heat thus producing pure carrier oils rich in vitamins and minerals that conserve the therapeutic properties of their source. I choose to use organic cold pressed olive oil: it is rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, it is an ideal natural cosmetic for dry skin, and has excellent wound healing properties. It does go cloudy and semi-solid on cold days, but then clears as the temperature of the surrounding environment gets warmer.

Equipment needed Clean dry jar with lid Label Unbleached coffee filter paper (available at Bin Inn, brand is Euro shop No. 4, a box of 100) Sieve or butter muslin (available at material shops or less expensive at places such as Emporiums).

Directions 1. Place dried mullein flowers in clean dry jar 2. Cover with cold pressed olive oil 3. Leave to macerate in the menstruum away from sunlight for six weeks, shaking on occasion 4. After six weeks, filtrate through clean muslin, sieve or bleach free coffee filter paper 5. Decant and store in dark glass bottles.

6. Keep in cool place away from sunlight.

7. Put the marc on the compost heap or back to the plant.

Summer 2012 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

21

Herbal Manufacturing

Manufacturing Fresh Valerian flower oil Most of us have been taught that the root of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is the most active plant part. But I have had the knowledge shared with me from a Sioux Native American that not the roots, but more commonly the flowers are used.

Valerian flowers are coloured white, which in plant language, relates to the nervous system. The fragrance of the flowers is divinely sweet and relaxing to mind and soul.

It does make sense that when one treats the ‘head’ and nervous system, the ‘head’ of the plant is best.

Directions The process of manufacturing this oil is similar to the mullein oil on the previous page i.e. the quantities are the same, but the flowers need to be only slightly wilted instead of dried.

1. Cover the flowers in the jar with the organic olive oil.

2. Once covered the oil needs to be regularly observed on a daily basis to ensure that any water bubbles that may appear are decanted off immediately.

3. After six weeks strain through muslin, sieve or filter paper.

4. Store in dark, glass bottle in a cool dark place.

Medicinal Uses ΏΏ Valerian oil can be used for tight muscles particularly neck muscles, for headaches, stress and sciatic nerve pain.

BLACKBERRY Rubus fruticosus

T

his year is a great year for Blackberries, they are abundant, very large, juicy and deliciously sweet.

I am harvesting them every second day, when the weather is fine, and making them into preserves, herbal syrup and fruit vinegar.

Harvesting blackberries is a great way of teaching awareness of your surroundings because ‘one wrong move’ is soon felt by the thorns that Blackberry has. It takes

patience, precision and planning to gather the big ones in the middle of the bushes without being scratched or spiked!

My family and often visitors love picking blackberries, I just need to make sure that we do actually end up with blackberries in the containers instead of everyone’s mouths turning a suspicious blue colour. Even the dogs will pick their own and eat them!

Blackberry Herbal Fruit Vinegar Herbal fruit vinegars date back to Roman times for their health giving properties. Historically this herb was used for dysentery and diarrhoea (although usually the leaves and/or roots are more effective for this). It was also considered to be a ‘spirit lifter’ similar to Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) and Borage (Borago officinalis).

The fruits contain malic and citric acids (which may be the reason for the ‘spirit lifting and energetic’ effects);

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

and pectin and albumin for the colon health, dysentery and diarrhoea. The fruits also contain good amounts of magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A,C,P,K and B9. They also contain phytochemicals and its therapeutic actions are increased by the maceration process in the vinegar.

Herbal Manufacturing

Blackberry Herbal Fruit Vinegar cntd.

2

Ingredients

Macerate: soften plant material by soaking in a liquid with the intention of extracting constituents.

300 gms blackberries 400 mls white wine or apple cider vinegar 300 gm raw organic sugar

Equipment needed

2

Stainless steel or enamel pot Wooden spoon Wine or dark glass bottles Large sieve Funnel

Marc: the exhausted plant material that is left after the plant has been strained and pressed.

2

Directions 1. Take the whole family out picking to get a good dose of fresh air and sunshine.

2. Once a good amount has been harvested pour water over them and let any leaves, dirt or bugs lift to the surface. I usually leave them to stand for 5 to 10 minutes.

3. Strain off the bugs and water and drain the fruit in a colander.

4. Pour the vinegar over the fruit and leave overnight for 24 hours.

5. The next day combine the fruit, vinegar and sugar in the stainless steel pot and bring to the boil gently, while stirring with the wooden spoon.

6. Leave it on a brief rolling boil, still stirring until the fruit has softened and the sugar has dissolved. This should only take about 5 to 10 minutes.

7. Warm cleaned bottles in a low-heat oven.

8. Strain the mixture through the sieve and press with the wooden spoon until no more juice flows through.

9. Pour the fruit vinegar into the heated bottles with a funnel and cork or put top on.

10. Label bottles.

11. Put the marc on the compost heap.

ΏΏ 1 tsp of fruit vinegar to a ½ cup of warm water ΏΏ 1 tsp of fruit vinegar to 1/8 cup of hot water and top up glass with cold water. ΏΏ In winter as a hot toddy, heat 1 Tbsp fruit vinegar with 250 ml water and cinnamon stick in a pot over the fire. This is a great thirst quencher and can be used for feverish conditions, colds and coughs.

Some other herbal fruit that can be harvested in spring or autumn and made into vinegars are: ĨĨ Totara berries (Podocarpus totara) ĨĨ Hawthorn berries (Crataegus spp.) ĨĨ Ginko berries (Ginko biloba) ĨĨ Raspberries (Rubus idaeus) ĨĨ Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)

IMAGE: Walter Hood Fitch - Illustrations of the British Flora (1924)

Dosage Instructions & Medicinal Uses

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

23

Herbal Manufacturing

Blackberry Relaxation Dessert I would like to share a recipe with you that is a great finish to any dinner to take away the days stresses and to mellow into the evening.

Ingredients 500 gms washed blackberries 10 sprigs of lemon balm leaves, cut finely ¼ tsp Green Stevia powder

Directions 1. At least 30 minutes before serving, place the cleaned blackberries in a bowl.

2. Add the finely cut Lemon Balm leaves 3. Sprinkle with Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) powder

IMAGE: www.swsbm.com

ΏΏ Serve generous portions in dessert bowls (our bowls are the size of soup bowls, we just love it!). Enjoy!!

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

A HERB BOOK FOR CHILDREN

FROM NATURE Authored by Rixt Botello Illustrated by Martin Burge The book is fully bound and 47 pages long.

This is an informative and interactive herb book for children to learn about some common healing plants. It includes some of their history and uses, with activities, stories and recipes to enjoy. It is beautifully illustrated and user friendly for both young and old.

It contains: •

wonderfully illustrated, step by step info on growing from seeds and cuttings, gathering and drying herbs.

•

simple descriptions, history and uses of five common herbs used worldwide

•

a conservation message and vision.

•

illustrated recipes such as making a simple ointment, cough mix, healing oil and more…..

The book is written with the intent to be used worldwide and is both in metric and imperial for ages 8 to 80 years and younger with guidance.

You Can Order Now! Special price $25 ($30 online), plus postage and packaging for only $8 in New Zealand and $12 overseas.

Order online at www.nmtmassagecourse.co.nz Or Contact Rixt Botello on Email: bachnz@ps.gen.nz or Ph. 09 4061971 (New Zealand)

NZAMH Practitioner Resources NZAMH has a variety of resources to help support you in your practice as well as promote the NZAMH and herbal medicine. These are non-profit items available only to NZAMH members. Items may be viewed in the members section on our website: www.nzamh.org.nz ITEM

PRICE INCL. GST

Patient Guides Tri-fold brochure to give to patients explaining herbal medicine.

Free

Prescription Pads 50 pages

$2.00 each or 6 for $10.00

Bumper Stickers “New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists” “Herbs The First Medicine” “Herbal Medicine Natures Longest Clinical Trial”

$1.50 each or 4 for $5.00

Bottle Labels

$10.00 per bundle of 100

N/B - Prices do not include P & P, please add $5.00 to your order Please contact Val if you would like to order: email: admin@nzamh.org.nz or phone: (07) 8556724 Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

25

Plant Distillation Techniques

Distilling a Wine into a Spirit

By Jill Mulvaney

I

f you are making your own herbal tinctures using alcohol, why not try distilling your own alcohol. Perhaps you have grown or harvested your herbs and have gone to a lot of effort to ensure they are: the correct and appropriate species; cultivated with care; used disease free plants; harvested at the correct time using the correct part or obtained from a reliable source. If all this effort goes into the growing and harvesting lets take it to the next stage and prepare your spirit with the same integrity. Do you know where your spirit comes from, what is made from, who distilled it and how?

Tinctures were traditionally made in a brandy – a spirit distilled from a fruit or a wine. Here is what Jeanne Rose has to say about ‘spirit’ or Eau de Vie (translated as ‘Water of Life’) Eau de vie is an aromatic alcohol distillate of fruit such as grape, pear or apple or other fruit. Around the world there are some really expert Eau de vie distillers. Eau de vie, water of life or the burning

water, is an ancient substance - a high alcoholic beverage that was added to plain water to purify it, that was drunk on its own, that was distilled by ancient cultures, that was more a potent medicinal potion than a leisure drink. It is a substance written about by the ancient alchemists, a classic spirit honoured by all. In The Newe Iewell of Health by Conrad Gesner, and dated 1576, is “the fourth Booke of Dy∫tillations, conteyning many ∫ingular ∫ecrete Remedies” The first chapter is about “Of the distilling of Aqua vitae, or as some name it, burning water, and of the properties of the same.

It goes on to say... “that the water which is distilled out of wine, is named by some the water of life, in that it recovers and maintains life, yes and slays old age. But this may rightly be named the water of death, if it shall not be rightly and Artly prepared.” (www.

JeanneRose.net) Following is how to prepare “artly” an Eau de Vie.

2

Preparing a Fruit Brandy 2 Stage One – Prepare the ferment Ingredients: Plums or other soft fruit Madeira or Malaga type wine yeast Nutrient salts Water Other Equipment Plastic Brew Bucket and air lock Wine hydrometer pH Reader One of summer’s advantages is that there is always plenty of fresh fruit to be had, especially if you have a few fruit trees in your own backyard. Often you don’t know what to do with so much fruit.

Here is a suggestion - plum brandy – we’re using plums but you can distil just about any fruit that you have on hand—pears, apples, feijoas, figs, cherries, apricots, peaches...

Make sure you only pick or choose very ripe fruit as this will have

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

higher sugar content. Be sure all equipment used is thoroughly cleaned and sterile.

Harvesting The best time to pick the fruit would be late afternoon as this is when the flavours are most pronounced and the fruit has been left to warm by the afternoon sun. Warm fruit will also ferment faster than cold fruit.

Selecting fruit Select only the very ripe fruits for your brandy and discard any damaged fruit.

Weighing Approx. 20 kilo's of fruit is enough to fill a 25 litre Brew Bucket Mashing Tip the fruit into a sterile bucket. Mash the fruit by squeezing with your hands until it’s a fine pulp. A paint stirrer is useful for large amounts but not so good for stone fruit! (Note – you can leave the stones in plums, but remove the stones from apricots as they contain higher levels of cyanide). Really do a thorough job of this.

“

Plant Distillation Techniques ...that the water which is distilled out of wine, is named by some the 'water of life', in that it recovers and maintains life, yes and slays old age. But this may rightly be named the water of death, if it shall not be rightly and Artly prepared.

Conrad Gesner (1576)

Fermentation container This is the container that will be used for the fermentation process.

Be absolutely sure that the containers used for the fermentation are sterile. A Glass balloon jug or a plastic bucket with firm fitting lid are OK. You will need an air lock fitted into whichever you use. These are available from brewing supply shops or contact Alembics. pH Levels It is important to determine the pH level of your mash to ensure a good fermentation by using a pH indicator or litmus paper. Also some micro-organisms thrive if the pH level is too high. The ideal pH level is 4 but slight variations are tolerated. You can correct the acid level with lemon or orange juice.

Filling up Add some water to the mash to give it a more liquid consistency, 15% of total volume (approx. 4 litres) Adding yeast When the container is half full begin to add the yeast, this could be Madeira or Malaga type wine yeast. Add 5 grams of winemakers’ yeast and nutrient salts to boost the process.

Dissolve the yeast in a cup of warm water with a tsp of sugar to ‘wake it up’. If you’d like a stronger brandy you could add 350—500gms sugar for the yeast to feed on.

Airlock Fit an airlock and top up with water to the required level. This will allow the carbon dioxide to escape and keep the air and foreign matter out.

Fermenting During the entire fermentation the mash should remain at a temperature of between approx. 20°C to 25°C. Fermentation should be carefully monitored; this is where practise and experience comes in. Depending on sugar content, temperature and yeast, fermentation will take anything from 5 days to 2 weeks, at which time the airlock stops bubbling.

Alquitar – most suited to the distillation of high quality spirits

Stage Two – Distilling the Wine into Spirit or Eau de Vie

”

You can use any of these still types to make an Eau de vie: Traditional “Pot Still” or Alembic also suitable for making Hydrosol (see Issue An Alembic Column Still also used for steam distillation for essential oils, the column can be removed and used as a Traditional Pot still as above (see issue Alquitar most suited to the distillation of high quality spirits Other Equipment 0-100° C thermometer Small hydrometer 30-100% Glass measuring flask or beaker (available Alembics NZ www.alembics.co.nz/accessories ) Step 1: Decant your wine When the sediment in your ferment has fallen to the bottom of the brew bucket and the ferment measures at least 12% using a wine hydrometer its ready to distil into spirit or Eau de Vie. Let it sit quietly for a couple of days. Gently and carefully strain the wine off leaving the sediment (dead yeast) behind. Pour your wine into the Pot of your Still. Fill the Pot to 80% capacity, for example a 10 L Still takes 8 Litres of wine.

Step 2: Filling the condenser Fill the condenser with cold running water. It’s important to have cold running water flowing through the condenser throughout the entire distillation process to keep the coil cool. Consider a small pump – to create a self-circulating system. Ideally cold water in at A. and out at B. The distillate will flow out of C. Step 3: Heating Quickly bring the mash in the pot up to temperature (75°C).

Check the temperature of the copper tubing near the brass fastener regularly and once you find that you can no longer hold the copper tubing lower your heat source to a slow simmer. Larger Stills have a temperature gauge fitted.

Fermentation should remain around 20°C to 25°C

Step 2: Filling the Condenser

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

27

Plant Distillation Techniques The slower the distillate exits from the condenser spout the better quality distillation. The ‘heads’ will come out at a quick drip—the ‘hearts’ will come out at a slow trickle/steady stream. Remember, if you boil the mash/wash/wine in the pot, then you will get all of the alcohols come out together at the same time and you don’t want that.

Step 4: Discarding the 'bad' alcohols Heads/Foreshots: you should discard approx the first 2% of distillate (per 1L in the pot) as this contains undesirable volatiles.

So for 2 litres of mash in the pot, discard the first 30/40ml of distillate.

Step 5: The Hearts Approx the next 20 to 25% of volume in the pot are the sweet alcohols that you are looking to collect, so 2 litres in the pot, 500 mls of hearts.

Step 6: The Tails The last part of the distillation, normally the taste changes to that of dishwater, sometimes becomes a little cloudy and the alcohol level will drop dramatically to under 30 %.

Smell, taste and see. Check the spirit at regular intervals to find out what is happening—you will quickly learn. On a long run, take 100ml samples and check the alcohol level and taste, smell, see.

Bottle: When you have taken your final alcohol reading using your Hydrometer, pour the spirit into a clean glass bottle and label: type of Wine, alcohol % and date. Eau de vie improves over time. Try to put half away for next year. The tannins in Oak bark mellow and soften the spirit too. Try oaking some by adding oak chips or purchase a small Oak Barrel.

Running Your Dream Practice is EASY… When you know how.

Next Issue we explore double distilling methods. This makes 70-80% alcohol suitable for tinctures and perfume. 3 Useful online resources Equipment and ingredients are available at: Alembics NZ www.alembics.co.nz www.alembics.co.nz/workshops http://homedistiller.org/ A great site for distillers!

YouTube Demonstrations http://www.youtube.com/alembicsnz

Join us at our first seminar for 2013

Creating the Practice of Your Dreams Learn the simple steps you can take to create the Amazing Practice of Your Dreams. We will provide key, proven

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jill currently resides on Waiheke Island with her partner Charlie.

Together they run distillation workshops and demonstrations throughout New Zealand and sell alembic stills worldwide.

Alembics NZ supplies all the equipment necessary for fermentation and distillation.

We recommend you attend a workshop or contact us for support and advice on the distillation of alcohol and spirits.

See www.alembics.co.nz for product and current workshop schedules or email: info@alembics.co.nz

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

methods to help you create a successful Practice.

Get the tools to create the Practice of Your Dreams

For just $49.95 10am to 4 pm Saturday 20th April 2013 Ellerslie War Memorial Hall 138 Main Highway, Ellerslie , Auckland

For More information, or to book, see www.practicepro.co.nz/events

Book Review

Book Review

A Herb Book From Nature for children to use Written by Rixt Botello Illustrated by Martin Burge 47 pages Soft Cover.

Reviewed by Richard Whelan MNZAMH I loved this book. In fact it is the best thing I have read in ages!

Rixt Botello’s intention for this book is ‘to instil that excitement and ability to listen and to hear the music of the herbs around us and to see what these wonderful little plants can give us besides being trodden on!’.

Rixt speaks for the herbs in this book and somehow by doing so she has achieved the remarkable feat of writing in a language that is instantly accessible to young or old. Stories, interesting historical snippets, recipes for a syrup, ointment, bookmark, tea, healing oil and a daisy-chain are kindly and beautifully illustrated and presented in a way that brings you in and makes you want to get your hands a little dirty.

She wants ‘to enable the child to learn that these little plants can feed and heal us’.

It is hard to imagine how an adult let alone a child would fail to be entranced by gathering and making any of the medicines she describes. There are easy to follow ‘step by steps’ on how to grow herbs from seeds and the book has clear and well-written instructions on how to prepare and use a small selection of herbs that children are likely to encounter in nature.

Rixt says ‘it is my hope that this book will bring some inspiration back to the young (and old) of today away from their computers, cell phones and other electronic introverted playthings and bring them back to nature and the reality of life within this world’ This book is a balm, an antidote to the increasingly heavy weight of expectation that more and more technical knowledge can somehow replace the healing force of nature. I warmly recommend any herbalist with an inner or outer child to get it for themselves or one of their loved ones without any hesitation. 3 Special Price: $25.00 ($30 online) + P&P Available from: Rixt Botello bachnz@ps.gen.nz Ph: 09 4061971 OR order online at www.nmtmassagecourse.co.nz

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

29

Guidelines for Continuing Professional Education – Due 1st April 2013 Total annual requirement for NZAMH professional membership: 30 Points Our continuing education points system contains a list of activities through which you can obtain Continuing Professional Education (CPE) points. Each March, professional members will be sent a CPE form to fill out along with a membership renewal form. See our website for more details www.nzamh.org.nz Herbal Medicine Activity - 20 points compulsory minimum (Except Higher Education/Research Activity – see next category) This education requirement is directly related to the practice of herbal medicine. For example the research of medicinal plants, New Zealand Native herbs, herbal medicine professional and industry issues, the historical and traditional aspects of herbal medicine and the philosophical issues related to the practice of herbal medicine (May also include company seminars that include herbal content).

Higher Education/Research Activity – Up to 20 points.

NZAMH recognizes the need for our professional members to increase their knowledge in research, to conduct research and to gain related higher qualification. Course work related to acquisition of bachelor degree or higher in science related subjects will receive appropriate CPE points as will research activity relevant to the practice of herbal medicine or the development of the herbal medicine profession.

Medical Science Activities (unrelated to Higher Education/Research Activity – up to 10 points) Activities of a continuing education nature which relate to nutrition, human biochemistry, physiology, pathology, symptomatology, diagnosis, pharmacology, internal medicine, epidemiology, psychology, psychiatry, health-related research and also the study of other health care modalities not regarded as herbal medicine, such as remedial body work, naturopathy, homeopathy, mind/body, kinesiology etc.

Other Subject Activities (Up to 10 points) Activities that relate to the practice of herbal medicine, but may not be classifiable as either herbal medicine or medicinal science topics.This covers areas such as business development, marketing and promotion, health promotion, general health care philosophy, ethics and history. This may also include writing government submissions on related CAM health issues.

Other Criteria Must have current St John’s or Red Cross First Aid Certificate (or equivalent), unless special conditions apply: i.e. unable to take part in a First Aid course due to disability.

Please visit our website or contact Val McArthur if more details required. val@herbaltouch.co.nz

STUDYING:

SUB TOTAL

Borrowing from the NZAMH (or herbal college) library

1 point/item

Max 5 points

Formal Study at a tertiary institution – to gain herbal medicine related bachelor degree or higher (including classes, external work, assignments, exams)

1 point/hour

Max 20 points (final 10 points must relate to herbal requirement)

Formal Study at a tertiary institution to gain knowledge related to research methodology (level 6 NZQA or higher)

1 point/hour

Max 10 points (final 20 points must relate to herbal requirement)

Medical Science Activities (unrelated to Higher Education/ Research Activity)

1 point/hour

Max 10 points (final 20 points must relate to herbal requirement)

Continued overleaf

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AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013

Guidelines for Continuing Professional Education cntd.

PRESENTING:

SUB TOTAL cntd.

Presenting to the public a health related topic

4 points/talk

Max 12 points

Presenting to a professional audience a health related topic

6 points/talk

Max 18 points

Undergraduate or Postgraduate teaching/lecturing a health related topic Presenting original research to a professional audience

1 point/6 hours

Max 5 points

10 points/ presentation

Max 20 points, (final 10 points must relate to herbal requirements)

2 points/meeting

Max 10 points

ATTENDING/PARTICIPATING: NZAMH Branch Meeting or National Committee meeting NZAMH AGM/Conference attendance

10 points/day

Subscription to Yahoo chat line forum

2 points

Seminar/telephone or conference attendance – Herbal medicine predominant (Content must be approved by NZAMH)

2 points/hour

Max 30 points

Seminar/telephone or conference attendance – Nutrition medicine predominant

2 points/hour

Max 10 points

4 points/article

Max 20 points

20 points/article

Max 20 points

PUBLISHING: General media — publish health related article (e.g. Avena. Herbal Gram, NZ Charter magazine, NZ Woman’s Weekly, Sunday News) Peer reviewed journal — publish secondary health related research i.e. review article (e.g. Alternative Medicine Review, BMJ, NZ Doctor, Journal of Ethnopharmacology)

Peer reviewed journal — published original research study (e.g. Alternative Medicine Review, BMJ, NZ Doctor, Journal of Ethnopharmacology)

30 points/ study

Writing a health related book

6 points/chapter

Max 24 points

Mentoring a graduate medical herbalist student

2 points/hour

Max 10 points

Volunteer in a herbal garden or herbal dispensary

1 point /hour

Max 10 points

Business development, marketing and promotion, health promotion, general health care philosophy, ethics and history.

1 point / hour

Max 10 points

Writing Government submissions on related CAM issues.

1 point / hour

Max 10 points

OTHER:

If you have undertaken a relevant activity that does not fit into one of the above categories you may apply to NZAMH for approval of credit toward your CPE point total.

Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

31

in loving memory

Glenda Wright

On the 6 November 2012 one of our great friends and colleague's, Glenda Wright, passed away after a short battle with illness. Glenda was an extremely knowledgeable and experienced herbalist and naturopath and her loss has left a significant gap within the complementary medicine field of Wanganui and New Zealand.

Glenda had a diverse and interesting life. She was born and raised in Palmerston North and right from an early age she developed a love for horses and animals which remained with her throughout her life. She worked at a variety of occupations in her younger days and traveled extensively around New Zealand, Australia, Canary Islands, UK and Europe.

In 1979 Glenda and her husband had two gypsy wagons built from scratch - one was to be their accommodation and the other was their workshop.

Once the wagons were roadworthy two suitable Clydesdales were found to pull them. Glenda trained the Clydesdales and broke them to harness. They then traveled NZ selling their leatherwork and jewellery (with 4 dogs, one of these was a St Bernard, 2 cats, and chooks). I’m sure many stories could be told…

Later Glenda moved to Hawkes Bay and completed a year long biodynamic diploma and then moved North to work at a Wellness Centre as the biodynamic farm manager.

In 2003 Glenda went on to complete a Diploma of Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine at Wellpark College in Auckland and then moved to Wanganui to commence her clinical practice.

Over the years Glenda become interested in treating clients with mental health concerns and children within the autistic spectrum. Over the last

32

two years Glenda developed a passion for Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth And Learning), which involves using horses as a tool while treating clients with mental health and human development issues.

She had intended to go to Sydney in December to further her studies in this.

Glenda had a very analytic mind and would continually be researching. She wouldn’t just treat her clients, she would research their needs thoroughly.

Glenda also had a passion for photography and had achieved a Diploma in Photography.

She was a lady who had a lifelong love of nature, native bush and beaches and would love nothing better than gatherings around a bonfire.

Glenda will be remembered as the lady with the beaming smile, the smile that could light up a room.

The beauty within shone out through that smile and everyone could feel it.

Along with that smile went her knowledge, wisdom, empathy and skill which she was only too willing to share with others who could learn so much from her life skills.

‘Herbal blessings Glenda’, from Kim Fielder and the Wanganui Herbalist Support Group

AVENA Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists Autumn 2013 Autumn 2013 Journal of the New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists AVENA

7

IMPROVING CLINICAL OUTCOMES WITH

POINT-OF-CARE SCREENING & PATHOLOGY TESTING MARCH 2013 • • • •

Would you like to make better use of point-of-care and pathology test results, to help you prescribe more effectively and improve compliance?

Do you know about the latest developments in natural treatments for managing dyslipidaemia and improving cardiometabolic test results?

Do you use testing to help individualise and track the progress of your patient’s stress treatment?

Are you using point-of-care and pathology tests to choose the best detoxification protocol for each patient, and to monitor and motivate them?

• Would you like to know which forms of key nutrients are going to improve your patient’s symptoms and test results?

• How confident are you at deciphering sex hormone profiles and prescribing the right natural ingredients to balance hormone levels?

• What is the clinical relevance of genetic testing? How should you modify your prescription based on a patient’s single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)?

These important questions will be answered in this upcoming seminar.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about how you can get the most from point-of-care and pathology testing, so you can formulate the most effective treatment plans for your patients.

LOCATIONS AND DATES NEW ZEALAND Takapuna Ellerslie Tauranga Napier Nelson Dunedin Christchurch Wellington

Friday 15th March Saturday 16th March Sunday 17th March Tuesday 19th March Wednesday 20th March Thursday 21st March Saturday 23rd March Sunday 24th March

Bruce Mason Centre, Cnr Hurstmere Road & The Promenade, Takapuna Beach Novotel Ellerslie, 72-112 Greenlane East, Ellerslie Hotel on Devonport, 72 Devonport Road, Tauranga Napier War Memorial, 48 Marine Parade, Napier Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco, 6 Point Road, Nelson Scenic Circle Dunedin City, Cnr Princes & Dowling Streets, Dunedin Copthorne Hotel Christchurch Airport, 449 Memorial Avenue, Christchurch Rydges Wellington, 75 Featherston Street, Wellington

YOUR PRESENTER

YOUR INVESTMENT:

PAUL MANNION ND, BHSc As Technical Director for Metagenics, Paul combines his 20 years of clinical practice as a Naturopath with a keen interest in research and product development. Paul’s role is to ensure that clinicians have the tools, products, information and education they need to achieve optimal results with their patients. Paul’s broad clinical experience ensures that all his presentations are clinically focussed and relevant to the needs of today’s Practitioners.

BOOK NOW!

There's a seminar venue near you!

Account holders and students: $59.85 incl. GST Non-account holders: $99.00 incl. GST

ALL SEMINAR TIMES Registration Session 1 Break Session 2 Dinner

2:30 to 3:00 pm 3:00 to 4:30 pm 4:30 to 5:00 pm 5:00 to 6:30 pm 6:30 to 7:30 pm

Metagenics is committed to providing the best education to all Practitioners no matter where they are.

That’s why Metagenics seminars are presented at 46 venues throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Metagenics reserves the right to refuse entry to any person, or competitor, or employee thereof. No tape recorders or video cameras allowed within any venue.

Call customer service now on 0508 227 744 to reserve your place today.

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Premium New Zealand Made Herbal Medicine

www.phytomed.co.nz // Freephone 0508 749 866 // www.kiwiherb.co.nz