Tag Archives: asthma

Lobelia – Is it in Your First Aid Kit ?

Herbal Wisdom, , , , , , , ,

I Love Lobelia! I wish it would be in every home’s first aid kit.

It is an indigenous  North American annual plant…..

… in the same family as the beautiful flower garden border, but the medicinal species is Lobelia inflata.   It is sometimes called Indian Tobacco because the American Indians smoked it for various benefits. One of the most studied active ingredients is a plant alkaloid called lobeline.

 

lobelia

 

Lobelia is among the most beneficial herbs for the respiratory system.

Lobelia Inflata is a third degree medicinal herb. It has so many positive actions that Dr. John Christopher has a whole chapter in his “School of Natural Healing” textbook dedicated to lobelia.  Some of  the following properties make it one of the essential herbs to have on at hand in every home:

Deobstruant: Lobelia has the ability to remove obstructions, and is a very effective expectorant. This makes it effective in loosening and helping with expectoration of mucous, especially in the respiratory tract and stomach.  It is a very good respiratory stimulant and broncho-dilator.

Lymphatic: It helps to cleanse and stimulate movement of lymph fluid, thus aiding this important part of our immune system, a critical part of our body’s natural waste disposal.

Nervine:  Lobelia is one of nature’s strongest relaxant nervine herbs. Because of its ability to relax the sympathetic nervous system, it has been used effectively for nervous excitement, hysteria, relaxing  tight colon (spastic constipation, IBS), hiatal hernia, diaphramatic tension and pain.

Antispasmodic:  stops spasms so is useful for muscle spasms, cramps, convulsions, seizures, irregular heart beat,  bronchial spasms such as in asthma, coughs, COPD.

Analgesic, Anodyne:  effective for painful conditions such as teething, earache, muscle and joint inflammation, kidney or gall bladder stones, stiff neck, injuries. Helps eliminate pain and toxins of poisonous bites and stings. Apply externally, as well as taking internally.

 

Stop smoking:     Medical Claim approved by Health Canada:

Lobelia can help quit smoking, by helping to reduce the body’s craving for nicotine and easing withdrawal symptoms”. One of Lobelia’s active constituents is lobeline, which has a similar chemical composition to nicotine. This makes Lobelia very effective for those wishing to stop smoking, as lobeline helps fill the nicotine receptor sites which create cravings, without any addictive effect or weight gain. Lobelia  can help reduce cravings and decrease  nicotine withdrawal-induced depression.

Take a few drops (up to .5ml)  under tongue, hold 30 seconds. Repeat, as needed, up to 20 times per day.

Doing a cleanse, such as the Detox Basics (30 day) , can help make the shift to a positive lifestyle.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24682499/

DOSAGE AND APPLICATION FOR LOBELIA

This is the Lobelia inflata we have used professionally for 35 years with all ages, from young children with whooping cough,  to 85 year seniors with COPD. It is also available in capsule form in US.

 Internally – In liquid extract form a few drops of Lobelia can be squirted or dropped under the tongue. A calibrated dropper can be used adult dosage is .5ml. (1/10 tsp.) taken in repeated dosages for desired effect or up to one teaspoon at once for a deeply relaxing effect. For children or alcohol contraindication, pour some boiling water over Lobelia alcohol extract and let sit one – two minutes until alcohol evaporates.

Much has been written of Lobelia as toxic – the main result of an excess is emesis, as Lobelia is also prized as an emetic. Once a person has vomited, and the offending substance removed, whether it be poison, mucous, etc. a person will feel the better for it.

Externally: rub a couple of drops on the affected area. For teething, one drop can be rubbed on the gums. For ears: aches, congested, tinnitus: 2 drops in ear; lie down opposite side.

“Lobelia is the most powerful diffusive stimulant known in herbal medicine. After taking a dose it instantly permeates the whole system, removing obstructions wherever found and restoring a healthy action wherever needed. When taken inwardly, it acts like intelligence. Give lobelia and it will find the disease and assist nature to overcome it.”                                       Dr. John Christopher

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3 Medical Challenges and Healthy Alternatives for Lungs, Diabetes and Vaccines

Brain Health, Diabetes, Vaccines, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Feb. 2021: references, details added:

Note: Links frequently change and we can’t always keep up with them. For ANY health recommendations, such as products we have personally and professionally used since 1985, CONTACT US. We can email links, fact sheets, advice. First free 10 mins. no charge, and no charge to help you get the best products at 20-25% discount PLUS Free shipping to your door. Consults available for more complex cases.

 

Just 2 Months’ Exposure to Anticholinergics (AC’s)* Affects Cognition

Physicians “absolutely” over-prescribe ACs, said Dr. Boustani, Indiana University Center for Aging Research. Patients might push for these drugs in the belief that if they simply take a pill, their symptoms will go away. Also, physicians typically don’t have the time to discuss medication alternatives with individual patients. “They take the easy way out, which is to just simply spend 10 seconds writing a prescription,” said Dr. Boustani.

AC’s are used for a variety of conditions including:

Respiratory (with most seniors with COPD and asthma), urogenitary, gastrointestinal, dizziness and insomnia (shorterm only) . The results highlight the importance of limiting prescriptions for ACs in older adults. All too often, said Dr. Boustani, patients continue to take AC medications even when they’re not working.

*A list of common prescribed and over the counter AC’s at end of article.

Lorene Benoit questions how is one to know if cognitive impairment in seniors is being caused by, or worsened by the long term use of these medications when Mild Cognitive Impairment has been noted after only 2 -3 months of use. Many seniors are on these medications, compounded by having  several of them combined, for long term, usually years or until death do them part! How often is declining cognition being brushed off as natural aging, or dementia? Plus, some of these medications are prescribed for children with rapidly developing brains!

Healthy Natural  Approaches for Respiratory use of AC’s

When possible, physicians should substitute AC medications with those that have fewer cognitive adverse effects or with nonpharmacologic alternatives, said Dr. Boustani.

Benoit offers even safer, natural alternatives be considered. For breathing and respiratory  distress caused by COPD, asthma, or other respiratory conditions like bronchitis, congestion and coughs, Lobelia is safe, effective and inexpensive.

Lobelia Inflata is a third degree medicinal herb. It has so many positive actions that Dr. John Christopher has a whole chapter in his “School of Natural Healing” textbook dedicated to lobelia.  Some of  the following properties make it one of the essential herbs to have on at hand in every home.

Medicinal properties include:

Nervine:  Lobelia is one of nature’s strongest relaxant nervine herbs. Because of its ability to relax the sympathetic nervous system, it has been used effectively for nervous excitement, hysteria, relaxing  tight colon (spastic constipation, IBS)

Antispasmodic:  stops spasms so is useful for muscle spasms, cramps, convulsions, irregular heart beat,  bronchial spasms such as in asthma, coughs,

Analgesic, Anodyne:  effective for painful conditions such as teething, earache, muscle and joint inflammation, kidney or gall bladder stones, stiff neck, injuries. Helps eliminate pain and toxins of poisonous bites and stings. Apply externally, as well as taking internally.

Deobstruant: Lobelia has the ability to remove obstructions. This makes it effective in loosening and helping with expectoration of mucous, especially in the respiratory tract and stomach.  It helps to cleanse and stimulate movement of lymph fluid, thus aiding this important part of our immune system and body’s natural waste disposal.

Stop smoking: “Medical Claim approved by Health Canada: Lobelia can help quit smoking, by helping to reduce the body’s craving for nicotine and easing withdrawal symptoms”. One of Lobelia’s active constituents is lobeline, which has a similar chemical composition to nicotine. This makes Lobelia very effective for those wishing to stop smoking, as lobeline will fill the nicotine receptor sites which create cravings, without any addictive effect or weight gain – a few drops under tongue, hold 30 seconds. Repeat up to 20 times per day, as required. Doing a cleanse, such as the Tiao He Pak (10-15 days), or Bod-E Klenz (30 days), can also help reduce cravings and make the shift to a positive lifestyle.

With these benefits, Lobelia should be in every person’s home 1st Aid Kit.

Other formulas that aid a weakened respiratory system is the Chinese formula LH-C.   Lung Healer – Chinese have kept many people off drugs and helped to heal lungs, not just address symptoms.

AL-J is another formula for allergies affecting respiratory system. It contains a blend of herbs well known for healing such as mullein, horseradish, fenugreek and boneset.

For other conditions for which ACs may be prescribed, there are a multitude of healthy herbs that have history of proven effectiveness that date back thousands of years.

References: Medscape: http://www.medscape.com

Alzheimer’s & Dementia. Published online November 26, 2012

Dr. John Christopher, “The School of Natural Healing”

 

Actos medication for Diabetes Class Action Law Suit

Actos is used to improve blood sugar (glucose) control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed to patients who have trouble regulating their blood sugar with diet and exercise alone. It may be used alone or with other medicines, including insulin and metformin.

However, long-term use of Actos is linked to a number of serious health complications, including heart failure, macular edema, lactic acidosis, bone fractures, and most recently bladder cancer. It is the link to bladder cancer that is leading more than 3,000 former Actos users to file lawsuits against Takeda Pharmaceuticals, the maker of the drug.

Reference: Aubrey Hayes     Public Outreach Drug Watch

ahayes@drugwatch.com     www.drugwatch.com

Healthy Natural  Approaches for Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

Safer herbal alternatives are GlucoReg, which has herbs traditionally used to control blood sugar mechanisms and Chromium GTF. Also dietary changes must be undertaken.

Recommendations in Lorene Benoit’s book: The Paw Paw Program – A “Christopher Columbus” Approach to Cancer – The World IS Round and Cancer CAN Be Treated Naturally are helpful.

Her book explains the sugar and disease and inflammation connection. As well, extensive dietary recommendations are given to help people understand how to eat better. Some recipes are also included. Eliminating sugar, in fact, is critical to optimum health and prevention of all chronic conditions, including diabetes and cancer!

Other options are the raw food approach, as shown in this 4 minute video part way through the May, 2011 newsletter.

 

Vaccines Linked to a Host of Chronic Illnesses

While the preceding mainstream articles dance around the theories of autism causation, vaccination is never mentioned as a possible “environmental” factor in the etiology of autism. Vaccines are linked not only to autism, but to many chronic conditions that used to be rare in children. The producers of the new documentary The Greater Good, provide a catalogue of over 200 studies that raise serious concerns about vaccine side effects.

References: Vaccine Risk Awareness Network

http://www.greatergoodmovie.org/learn-more/science/

* A list of common prescribed and over the counter AC’s :

List of common prescribed anticholinergics
  • atropine (Atropen)
  • belladonna alkaloids.
  • benztropine mesylate (Cogentin)
  • clidinium.
  • cyclopentolate (Cyclogyl)
  • darifenacin (Enablex)
  • dicylomine.
  • fesoterodine (Toviaz)

In addition to prescription anticholinergics, commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) anticholinergics are: antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, doxylamine, and dimenhydrinate.

 

Healthy Natural  Approaches for Immunity

See our past archives on Vaccines, specifically, Safe Vaccine Alternatives, and Immune Tips.

22 Reasons to Use Arginine for YOUR Health!

Allergies, Antioxidants, Heart Health, Hormones, Immune Tips, , , , , , , , ,

The nitric oxide derived from arginine is directly or indirectly implicated in practically every cellular response and health condition imaginable, from the cardiovascular system to the immune system, and hormone function to nerve function. Although an exhaustive list of possible applications for the amino acid is not included, the following are the primary scientifically-backed reasons that anyone – even healthy people – should consider adding arginine to their health and wellness regimen.

In 1998, a team of pharmacologists won the Nobel Prize for their discovery of how nitric oxide (NO) regulates blood flow in the body. One of the applications is that the release of NO causes dilation of the blood vessels. It was then discovered that an amino acid called L-arginine causes the human body to produce NO. As a result, L-arginine   (CA)  became a popular ingredient in dietary supplements for helping men achieve peak performance in the bedroom.

In addition to supporting male sexual function, L-arginine helps improve blood circulation for both sexes and helps support normal blood pressure levels. L-arginine is converted into NO that helps dilate your blood vessels. This, in turn, means your heart does not have to pump as hard, which promotes normal blood pressure and circulation.

The American Heart Journal presented 11 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving  L-arginine, all with positive results in lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Please contact our office to place direct discount orders & receive professional support for your optimum health.

Below are some of the documented benefits provided by L-arginine Plus, a formulation which also contains other cardiovascular support. To see the benefits of each ingredient in Arginine Plus and other synergistic formulations, refer to Arginine for Cardio and Heart Health .

1. Arginine Plus is one thousand times more powerful than any naturally occurring antioxidant in the body. Arginine`s antioxidant properties support various body systems and may protect against heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, as well as slowing premature aging. 1, 2

2. Arginine Plus offers wide-ranging cardiovascular support, including controlling blood pressure 3, 4 and plaque formation. Nitric oxide keeps arteries relaxed and pliable for normal blood pressure, preventing hypertension and angina. 5

3. Arginine Plus enhances memory,6 particularly long-term memory, and may help to reverse the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.7

4. Arginine Plus boosts human growth hormone (HGH) production, which has anti-aging properties. 8

5. Arginine Plus enhances communication of messenger cells between nerves and the brain. 9

6. Arginine Plus may help improve immune function10 and fight bacterial infections. 11

7. Arginine Plus may help in the treatment and prevention of diabetes since many disease complications, including poor circulation and blindness, are vascular in nature. Arginine is also found to regulate insulin secretion in the pancreas. 12,13

8. Arginine Plus may inhibit the division and proliferation of cancer cells. 14,15

9. Arginine Plus helps with cholesterol control by lowering serum and LDL cholesterol levels. 16

10. Arginine Plus enhances male sexual performance by treating vascular erectile dysfunction (ED). 17

11. Arginine Plus anticoagulant abilities reduce clotting to lower heart attack and stroke risk. 18

12. Arginine Plus reduces pregnancy-related hypertension, a risk factor for both the expecting mother and the unborn child. 19

13. Arginine Plus is useful in the treatment of asthma by opening pulmonary pathways for easier breathing and the treatment of lung disorders. 20, 21

14. Arginine Plus relaxes hypertonic sphincter muscles, preventing and healing hemorrhoids.22

15. Arginine Plus boosts lean muscle mass and preserves bone density by encouraging HGH production,23 which also leads to a reduction in fatty tissue. Because of these properties, it may be useful in weight management and strength training.

16. Arginine Plus can help offset cardiovascular and lung damage caused by tobacco use,24 since nitric oxide levels in smokers are less than half of those found in nonsmokers.25

17. Arginine Plus helps to accelerate wound healing26 and postsurgery recovery.27 Research has shown it is useful in treating burn wounds28 and stimulates wound healing in the elderly.29

18. Arginine Plus may be useful in enhancing athletic performance due to its ability to boost exercise tolerance,30 its beneficial effect on the lungs, and its effect on HGH levels, which helps with building lean muscle tissue.

19. Arginine Plus may be used to improve the function of the prostate.31

20. Arginine Plus may prevent and possibly reverse the effects of osteoporosis by positively affecting bone mass.32

21. Arginine Plus has been used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome33 and to reduce the occurrence of ulcers – especially stress- related – without affecting gastric acid production.34, 35

22. Arginine Plus may improve renal function and slow the progression of renal disease and age-related chronic renal failure.36,37 Arginine`s protective effect on the kidneys may also benefit those with diabetes.

REFERENCES

There are 37 references for the information above; if you wish this to be sent to you as a document, please contact our office via email: TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com, or contact via our website.

 

Rebounding: Mini-Trampoline Exercise

Exercise, Healthy Solutions, Immune Tips, , , , , , ,

Mini- Trampoline Exercise

Jumping on a mini-trampoline or “rebounding”, as it is sometimes called, is an exercise that has all the benefits of aerobic exercise plus more. It causes less stress on the skeletal system because the trampoline takes most of the stress. It tones and strengthens every cell in the body, cleanses the entire system of toxins and poisons, and uses the force of gravity in an acceleration/deceleration effect in the body.

The majority of people including the elderly, blind, physically and mentally handicapped, babies, and even people in wheelchairs are able to use a mini-trampoline. A baby can be held while someone is jumping, people in wheelchairs can put their feet on the trampoline while someone else jumps.

“Jump on a trampoline 3x a day for 2-5 minutes each time and start slow”, states Dr. Jenner.

Tones and Strengthens every cell

Jumping on a trampoline increases the gravitational pull on the body. At the top of the bounce the body becomes weightless for a split second. At the bottom of the bounce the body receives as much as 2 G’s force. This increased pull causes the cells to tone and strengthen themselves. Bones become denser, all muscles organs and tissues become stronger.

Acceleration/ Deceleration Cleansing Effect

The lymphatic system of the body has three times more fluid than blood. It acts as the vacuum cleaner or garbage collector of the body. It also is the immune system of the body. This fluid (the same fluid that fills blisters) bathes the cells in nutrients, as well as removing debris and toxins. It flows through the body in a system of tubes with one way valves. Dr. Corwin West claims trapped protein gets in the valves and that rebounding is the best way to circulate the Lymphatic System.

The bottom of the bounce causes increased pressure and closes the valves. In the middle of the bounce the valves open and at the height of top of the bounce fluids begin to flow. As the body descends (deceleration) the fluid flows pulling waste matter away from the cells to be eliminated by lymph fluids. All cells in the body are helped by this cleaning process.

Lymphatic Herbal Aids

LYM- MX: The lymphatic system needs to function properly to fulfill its role as an able partner of the immune system. LYM-Mx supports drainage through the lymphatic system.

Contains: Beta-Carotene 1250 IU, Vitamin C 50 mg, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl) 2.5 mg, Vitamin D3 100 IU, Magnesium (magnesium oxide) 12.5 mg. In a base containing: Cliver’s herb, alfalfa herb, chamomile flowers, Echinacea purpurea root, Parthenium integrifolium root, Siberian ginseng root, yarrow flowers, lecithin, garlic bulb, CoQ10, sodium copper chlorophyllin.

Lobelia is another amazing herb for the lymphatic system, besides being nature’s strongest herbal relaxant. As a de-obstruant, lobelia helps to remove congestion from lymphatic system as well as thinning mucous, which makes it excellent for asthma, coughs, COPD  and other respiratory complaints. Lobelia is also one of the best herbs to help people stop smoking. Email our office for full fact sheets or articles on this herb, or to order any products! TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com.

References:  “How to Herb Book” by Velma. J Keith;    Benoit & Associates Health Education; Dr. John Christopher

 

Allergies

Allergies, , , , , , , ,

To help a person who has allergy problems, one must play detective. There are several body systems which may need to be addressed to solve the riddle. Determining which one or ones are the priorities can help to find quicker resolution. Every person is an individual, and although there are some herbs which will help many people most of the time, there are more severe or stubborn cases, where some sleuthing can make a difference quicker and with longer lasting benefits.

The systems that we assess for allergies are digestive, eliminative, respiratory, urinary and hepatic or liver. Our marvelous liver performs over 500 functions, so for those who are challenged with allergies, the liver is certainly one of the organs to check out. Let’s look briefly at the other systems first, by learning some of the clues as to which system is trying to tell you something.

The digestive system will manifest as problems that include bloating, burping, upper abdominal distress, or headaches, to name a few.

The eliminative system will basically push some of these symptoms further down the G.I. tract, causing lower abdominal bloating, cramping or other pain, flatulence, and elimination problems such as diarrhea or constipation.

The respiratory system may show up as foul breath, running nose, watery eyes, sneezing, post- nasal drip or sinus headaches, earache or sore throat.

Problems with the urinary system may manifest through the skin, such as rashes, hives, pimples, acne, dandruff or itching.

Overload or deficiency of the liver can cause headaches, stiffness, muscle aches and irritability. The ability of the liver to handle toxins that we take into the body in our daily lives will also affect all the above mentioned systems. If more toxins enter the bloodstream via the liver, then these other systems must handle the extra burden.

Spring is the best time to improve the health of the liver according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. This is why in most cultures spring cleaning is an annual ritual. If you haven’t yet done this, it is not too late. Herbs traditionally used for liver cleansing are dandelion, milk thistle, nettles, beet, turmeric, gentian and the dock sisters, (yellow and bur). I use western herbal formulas which combine a number of these, as well as two Chinese formulas, one for a toxic (yang) condition and the other for a weakened (yin) condition. The main caution with cleansing is how strongly you approach it, dependent on your condition. If a person is already weakened and they cleanse too quickly it can further deplete their energy. You can consult a qualified herbalist for direction, but you want to also learn to pay attention to your body. It will become your best advisor.

Some of the most effective herbs and combinations for allergies are listed here. Please contact our office to become a member and receive direct to your door discounts on any of these.

Digestive System:

Digestive Enzymes: Good health begins with efficient digestion. This is a full spectrum Enzyme that aids digestion of protein, carbohydrates and fat and is one of the most effective and well priced on the market.

Eliminative System:

Tiao He Pak – “Balance and Harmony” -a 10 day cleanse for liver, bowels and blood
Bod – E Klenz – a 30 day cleanse that also contains building herbs, antioxidants, enzymes and probiotics, along with herbs to cleanse bowels, liver, blood, lungs and kidneys.

Respiratory System:

AL-J – a combination of herbs that promotes digestion, liver function, and lung decongestion.
SN-X – a decongestant and cleansing formula for the entire respiratory tract, especially effective for sinus, both acute and chronic and sinus headaches.
Fenugreek and Thyme – Fenugreek helps break down old, hardened mucous and Thyme is an antiseptic.
Histablock – Controls inflammation and swelling of mucous membranes, supports free breathing.
All the above formulas are more effective if begun during winter to help strengthen respiratory system before allergy season arrives.
Tei Fu Oil – see separate handout for uses for this cure all “snake oil”
Lobelia – helps to thin mucous to allow for better expectoration, calms bronchial spasms, therefore useful for coughs and asthma (anti-spasmodic), also calming to nervous system.

General Nutrition:

Chlorophyll – Nature’s Green Magic” helps you drink adequate water. Adds minerals, vitamins and flavour without calories or sweeteners. Inexpensive and healthy, what a combo!
Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids – nature’s natural anti-histamine.
MSM – Methylsulfonylmethane – scavenges free radicals and foreign proteins, can provide needed sulphur to help eliminate allergies within 3 to 4 days. Also gives building blocks to build stronger nails and hair and reduce inflammation of joints, skin and mucous membranes.

Lorene Benoit has a Master of Holistic Health, Master Herbalist, natural health consultant, CRA practitioner and educator. She teaches and lectures internationally. For more information phone or fax her Duncan office at 250-748-6802 or contact by email: TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com