Music therapy has shown itself to be a powerful and effective treatment of a wide variety of chronic or acute physical, mental, and emotional disabilities, ailments, and conditions including anxiety, pain, muscle strengthening, and emotional, social, and behavioral health challenges. If you are considering trying music therapy, here are ten important questions you must ask about before deciding whether music therapy is right for you.
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What is Hemp?
Hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) seed oil is a complete nutritional source. It contains all of the essential amino and fatty acids. Additionally, a number of compounds within the oil may exhibit desirable pharmacological activity. Hemp seeds are not actually seeds, but “achenes,” which are tiny nuts covered by hard shells.
Whole hemp seeds are composed of 20-25% protein, 20-30% carbohydrates and 10-15% insoluble fiber. (Theimer 1995). They are also an excellent source of minerals including phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, sulfur and calcium, as well as a fair source of iron and zinc.
Why is Omega-3 Important?
It’s important to have an optimal ratio of omega (Ω)6: omega Ω3 in the diet. Most commonly consumed oils in the Westernized diet are high in Ω6. The average American diet contains somewhere around a 10:1 ratio of Ω6: Ω3, while the desired ratio is closer to 3:1.
Hemp seed oil contains this desirable ration with its composition of LA (Linolenic acid, Ω6) and ALA (α-linolenic acid, Ω3) being roughly 3:1. It also contains some GLA (γ-linolenic acid, Ω6) in smaller amounts. Since its composition matches the body’s optimal fatty acid requirements, it can be consumed and supplemented with indefinitely without the development of any imbalances.
The same is not always true for other fatty acids like those from flax seeds. The ratios are so important because the fatty acids are metabolized into eicosanoids, which ultimately become prostaglandins, which affect a number of important functions like clotting, inflammation response and immune function. When the ratio is undesirable then certain metabolic intermediates will build up and efficient fatty acid metabolism, as well as these important functions, can be compromised.
What is the difference between Hemp and Marijuana?
While both compounds are found in little more than trace amounts, hemp seed oil’s composition is higher in cannabidiol (CBD) and lower in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabis plants have been shown to have higher THC concentrations in tropical latitudes, likely because the THC may provide some evolutionary advantage in being protective against UV light (Pate, 1994). Conversely, cannabis plants grown in more Northern and temperate climates, as many modern day hemp crops are grown in places like Canada, will yield concentrations of CBD that are much higher than THC. This is good news for the nutrition of hemp seeds because CBD may possess a number of pharmacological benefits, without the psychoactive effects of THC. It is well-documented to be anti-convulsant and anti-epileptic (Karler et al., 1973; Karler &Turkanis, 1981). CBD may also possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory (Formukong et al., 1988) and antimicrobial activity (Ferenczy et al. 1958).
Hemp powder, oil, and seed are very high in protein.
Other chemical compounds and benefits found in Hemp Seed Oil
Aside from CBD, hemp seed oil contains a variety of other compounds that may provide health benefits:
How do you use hemp seed oil?
An ideal fatty acid composition complemented by an amalgam of minerals and phytochemicals make hemp seeds and hemp seed oil incredibly rich, complete and well-rounded, nutritional food sources.
Cold-pressed, unrefined products are best, and should be kept refrigerated after opening. Compared with some other cooking oils such as coconut, hemp seed oil is low in saturated fat. Hemp seed oil has a low smoke point so it isn’t conducive to frying, however it makes a perfect base for salad dressings and dips, and may be added to soups. Adding a tablespoon of whole seeds or oil to a smoothie is also a great way to enjoy some extra EFA’s, protein and fiber.
References
Benhaim, Paul; A Modern Introduction to HEMP – From Food To Fibre: Past, Present And Future, Australia (2003).
Erasmus, U., 1999. Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill. Alive. Books, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Fan, Y.Y, K.S. Ramos and R.S. Chapkin, 1999.
Hansen, Ray, Industrial Hemp Profile, AgMRC, Agricultural Marketing Resource Center
Industrial Hemp in the United States: Status and Market Potential, United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service, Agricultural Economic Report No.(AGES-OO1E) 43 pp, January 2000
Johnson, Renee, Hemp as an Agricultural Commodity, Congressional Research Service Report for Congress, (RL34725) July 24, 2013, 7-5700
Leizer, C; Ribnicky, D; et al. (2000). The composition of Hemp Seed Oil and its Potential as an Important Source of Nutrition. Journal of Nutraceuticals, Functional & Medical Foods Vol. 2(4).
Pate, D. (1994). Chemical ecology of Cannabis. Journal of the International Hemp Association 1(2): 29, 32-37.
Stone W, Papas A (1997). Tocopherols and the etiology of colon cancer. Journal of the National Cancer Institute 89(14): 1006-1014.
Theimer, R. R. and H. M–lleken, 1995. Analysis of the oil from different hemp cultivars – perspectives for economical utilization. Pages 536-543 in Bioresource Hemp, 2nd edition. nova-Institute,Rosenstr. 53, 50678 Cologne, Germany.
Turner, C; ElSohly, M; Boeren, E. (1980). Constituents of Cannabis sativa L. XVII: A review of the natural constituents. Journal of Natural Products 43(2): 169-234.
U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ‘White Paper’ on Hemp:What Do the USDA and the DEA Have to Say About Hemp? NORML Foundation, 1100 H Street, NW, Suite 830, Washington, DC 20005
Weil, A. (1993). Therapeutic hemp oil. Natural Health. March/April, pp. 10-12.
Wolf, G. (1997). y-tocopherol: an efficient protector of lipids against nitric oxide- initiated peroxidative damage. Nutrition Reviews 55(10): 376-378.
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This article is written by Kevin McMahan, a Health and Wellness Educator for the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. Kevin has had a lifelong interest in health and wellness. After graduating from Carmel High School he went on to get an associates degree in social sciences from Monterey Peninsula College, and a bachelors in kinesiology from California State University Monterey Bay. He is a certified personal trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine. “Your health is your wealth”, is something that he always likes to say. The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com.
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
WHY SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED ABOUT HEART DISEASE?
Does heart disease run in your family? It is common for people with heart disease to ignore the problem and their doctor’s advice about how to improve their heart health. Maybe they have more pressing concerns. Maybe they do not understand the consequences of doing nothing. Maybe they are relying on prescription drugs to solve the problem. Taking prescription drugs can certainly help, but they do not get at the “heart” of the problem.
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
The problem is that the American lifestyle makes us susceptible to heart disease: high stress, easy access to non-nutritious foods, long work days that do not give us much time to exercise. It is a challenge to prevent and reverse heart disease, but it can be more easily faced when we learn to take control of our own health.
WHAT IS HEART DISEASE?
Heart disease can include high blood pressure, plaque in the arteries, and high cholesterol, among other things. Despite being often reversible and despite knowing so much about prevention and treatment, heart disease is still the #1 killer of both men and women.
According to the American Heart Association’s most recent data, 1 out of every 3 Americans has heart disease. One of the first things we can do for our own health is to learn what our own risk is and what we can do to decrease it.
WHO IS AT 
HIGH RISK FOR HEART DISEASE?
Most of us are familiar with the various risk factors for heart disease. Some we cannot control: older age, male gender, and family history of heart disease. However, most risk factors we can prevent or reverse: diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol, high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, high stress, and tobacco use. Research has shown again and again that diet and lifestyle changes can have a positive effect on these controllable risk factors in as little as 6 weeks.
WHAT PREVENTIVE STEPS CAN BE TAKEN?
Taking care of our hearts should be part of our daily routine. The prevention and treatment of any disease should always start with diet. In general, a whole foods diet is best for heart disease. This diet should be high in fiber, low in saturated fats, and high in omega-3 fatty acids. Daily exercise is known by most to help prevent and treat heart disease, but very few of us actually do it. Supplementing nutrients, herbs, and antioxidants is not always necessary but can speed the process of change and offer some additional protection.
HOW DOE
S NATUROPATHY HELP?
Sometimes people who have made diet and lifestyle changes and tried various supplements are still not able to decrease their risk factors for heart disease. For these people, there is often an underlying cause that is seemingly unrelated. It may be time for a new approach and Naturopathic doctors are trained to look for those underlying causes. They will consider medications, hormone imbalances, sluggish digestion, food intolerances, and heavy metal toxicities as possible contributors to heart disease. For most people, changing risk factors for heart disease can happen in as little as 6 weeks. Yet people struggle and worry for years without getting on a total program to improve the health of their hearts. There is so much that you can start doing today! Ask questions of your doctor until you understand your personal health situation. Do your own reading and research into the subject. Start trying new recipes. And most importantly, make a commitment to choose healthy daily lifestyle changes to prevent heart disease!
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This article is written by Lisa Ow. Lisa Ow is a practicing Naturopathic Doctor and a Health and Wellness Educator for the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance, a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com.
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
The medical use of hypnotism has been documented since the 18th century. Hypnosis for health and wellness is termed “hypnotherapy.”
What is the history of hypnotherapy? Modern hypnotherapy became prevalent during the 18th Century. James Braid (19 June 1795 – 25 March 1860) was a Scottish surgeon and influential pioneer of hypnotism and hypnotherapy. Many consider him as the first genuine “hypnotherapist” and the “Father of Modern Hypnotism”. The medical use of hypnosis to bring about healing of the emotions, mind, or body has been practiced for hundreds of years and in modern times is commonly referred to as “hypnotherapy.”
Hypnotism demonstration at Salpêtrière Hospital 1800’s
How can hypnosis or hypnotherapy aid in healing? Hypnosis is a safe, gentle, naturally occurring state of mind where one is more open and receptive to positive suggestions for change. We often find ourselves in a light hypnotic trance while we are focused on a movie or engrossed in a good book. Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool for self-improvement! Each of us often has the answers to our problems within our wise subconscious mind. Hypnosis creates a bridge from the Ego conscious mind to the subconscious. Your answers are then easily accessed and then incorporated into daily life.
Can a hypnotherapist make a person do something against their will? I am often asked if people can be made to do anything against their will. The answer is no! Hypnotherapists cannot make you do anything that goes against your morals, beliefs, ethics or principles while in a hypnotic trance. Each hypnotherapy session is especially tailored for your unique personality and issues to be transmuted. Suggestions are not placed with out your prior consent and knowledge.
Why do people go to a hynotherapist? There is an endless list of areas that can be addressed with hypnotherapy besides smoking and weight loss. Clients often wish to work on improving self-esteem, enhancing creativity, increasing intuition, improving sports performance, relieving insomnia, tapping into their spirituality, overcoming issues of codependency, or for healing past trauma. Past life regression is also very beneficial for releasing past trauma or learned behaviors.
Where do you go when you enter a hypnotic state? A hypnotherapist often helps a person enter a “Sacred Space.” Entering your, “Sacred Space” is a valuable component of healing and shifting into higher levels of consciousness. In Sacred Space, you have the ability to connect with Ascended Masters, Spirit Guides, Angels, deceased loved ones, animal totem guides or your higher self.
What will a session feel like? Most hypnotherapists offer a safe, gentle, nurturing environment where you can easily create breakthroughs and realize your desires. During a session, you’ll most likely sit comfortably in a chair or lie down, fully aware of your surroundings and in total control. Most sessions begin with an informal chat, discussing the specific work to be done and then proceed with a guided relaxation infused with positive suggestions for change. Sessions are pleasantly relaxing and typically last about one hour. Clients report feeling happy, rested and refreshed following appointments.
This article was written by Deborah San Paolo. Deborah is a Certified Hypnotherapist, Conscious Channel, Medical Intuitive, Energy Practitioner and a Holistic Health and Wellness Educator and member of the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. The Alliance is a non-profit organization of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to providing free-access to health education of body, mind and spirit. If you would like to join our Alliance, or if you’d like to submit a wellness article for us to print here on our blog, Contact Us.
How Can Drumming Heal the Body? The healing power of the drum has been known throughout the ages. Ancient shamans used drums and other rhythm instruments to induce trance states. In the trance state, the shaman contacts other realms of consciousness and returns with information to help heal the patient. The vibration of the drum also induced healing reactions in the patient. These practices are still being used to today.
Energy healing is about bringing the client’s energy systems back into order. The healer can work directly on the energy centers or chakras by using hands on techniques or music and sound can be utilized. Some healers often place the drum over blocked energy centers and drum with the intention of bringing that chakra back into harmony. The beauty of this is that nothing is forced and the chakra naturally makes a shift.
Why Is Drumming Effective in Healing? When we are healthy we have a lot of energy. When we are sick our energy is low or depleted. Just listening to music with an upbeat can energize a sick person. When we exercise we feel energized because the energy of our bodies has been activated through breath, movement and rhythm. This is what the drum can do. All cultures, including Western European, had traditions of using drums in their cultures. The advent of the Judeo Christian ethos and the suppression of the Goddess in both Western and Eastern cultures began the decline of the use of the drum and the healing power of the shaman. Drums can be found in the Druid tradition of the Celts, the tribal nations of pre-colonized America as well as throughout the tribal nations of Africa.
Who Were the First Drummers? In her book, When the Drummers Were Women, Layne Redmond provides evidence that the first drummers were most likely women. Over 3,000 years ago, drums were used for healing purposes as well as for ceremonial occasions such as births, deaths and marriages. The use of drums for individual and community healing pervade the African Culture.
It would take volumes and a library of CDs to discuss African drumming. Each tribe had its own type of drum and its own use of rhythm. In the African culture, specific rhythms are used for healing specific illnesses. Other rhythms are used for births and for the transition of death. Some of these traditions are still alive in Africa. Drumming was used for communication among African tribes. Later, in pre-Civil War America, slaves used drums to communicate to each other and lead each other out of slavery. When the drums were taken away, they used their feet and invented tap dancing. The preservation of African drumming is due to such drum Masters as the late Baba Olatunji (Drums of Passion) and Guinean Drum Master Mamaday Keita.
Such widely spread indigenous people as the tribal nations of North America, Siberians and the Finnish (as well as others) used the frame drum that we associate with shamanic drumming. A shamanic drum is constructed to produce a precise response. When struck, the drum produces several tones. These simultaneous tones known as harmonics stimulate both alpha and theta waves in the brain. The mind in brought into a meditative and dreamlike state. At the same time, the mind focuses upon the monotonous and repetitive drum beat. The chattering monkey mind quiets. In this state, the Spirit expresses itself through image, symbols, song/chant, tones, colors, and sensations! This is the essence of the Shamanic Journey.
What is Tibetan Buddhist Drumming? The Tibetan Buddhists have employed drums as part of their religious rituals for over 3,000 years. In addition, Buddhists use the harmonics produced by the Singing Bowls for healing purposes. These harmonics act in similar ways to the shamanic drum. It is made of specially smelted metals that create specific vibrations and frequencies. Everything in our body has a vibration or frequency. This includes our heart beat, our breath, or circulation, our craniosacral fluid and our cells. So it is no wonder that drumming along with meditation can change the cellular structure and bring the body back into balance.
What Does Research Say About Drumming? Recent medical and scientific studies are documenting the healing power of the drum. These studies have shown that drumming lowers blood pressure, improves the immune system, eases depression, and ameliorates the symptoms Alzheimer’s. For example, a landmark controlled scientific investigation by Bittman and colleagues, (Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, January 2001) demonstrated “statistically significant positive cell-mediated immune system changes that correlated with one-hour group drumming sessions”(International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship, July 9, 2004). And so science is catching up with the mystics and the shamans.
Finally, drumming is fun…and fun, as we all know, is healing. Laughing, dancing, and chanting with a drum releases endorphins and lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Drumming is expressive. When you pick up a drum you have a chance to express your own unique rhythm. There will never be another one like it and not one can replicate it, not even an identical twin. Drumming connects us. When we drum in a group we listen to other people. The rhythms we play together connect us energetically and emotionally. Drumming teaches us to communicate better.
The world is hungry for rhythm and harmony. In the last century this hunger emerged as the blues, jazz, rock and roll and now rap. The commercialization of the rhythm can distort it though. We need the individual rhythms to be heard. We need to make our own music. The world needs to hear and know your rhythm while you are among us. So go out and find your drum. The one that speaks to you. Then proceed like this. Take your hands and gently beat it to your own heart rhythm – one one – pause – one –one pause.
Some good reading: When the Drummers Were Women, by Layne Redmond, Planet Drum by Mickey Hart, The Way of the Shaman, by Michael Harner. There are plenty of good CDs out there. Check out Baba Olatunji’s “Drums of Passion,” and Mamaday Keita, Layne Redmond, Mickey Hart, and Glen Velez among others.
This article is written by Carole Pink, Shamanic Drummer, Cranio-Sacral, Energetic Practitioner, and Holistic Health Educator for the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance or to join us and have your health article printed here on our blog, Contact us.
What is Reflexology? What Are the Meridians and How Do You Use Them?
What is Hand Reflexology? How can I use the meridian points for healing?
Hand and foot reflexology massage is probably one of the easiest methods of self healing. There are many reflexology meridian points in the body. Acupuncture meridian points are found the entire length of each energy pathway, in every point in the body. The reflexology meridian points found in the face, hands and feet and can most easily be used as a self-treatment for healing illness, pain, fatigue and discomfort in a corresponding area of the body. Reflexology is proven to be an evidence-based application for use in medical settings, as demonstrated by researchers such as Choudhary, S., Kumar, G., & Singh, K. (Spring 2006), Piquemal, M. (September 2005), Testa, G.W. (2000), and others. Research has shown the specific techniques of reflexology to be effective and beneficial in many ways, impacting a variety of physical and psychological concerns, including headache, back, joint, and muscle pain, digestive disorders, and relief from symptoms of cancer including fatigue and malaise.
What are the Meridian Points in the Hand?
Practitioners use reflexology techniques on the thumb for healing conditions related to the energy meridian of the lungs, chest, or respiration. Meridian points on the index fingers can be stimulated to improve conditions in the abdomen, such as irritable bowel symptoms, cramping, gas, bloating, pain, diarrhea and constipation. The middle of the palm is the gullet, stomach, heart, liver.
The top of the pinky finger is associated with the top of the head with the fleshy portion below the top digits associated with the heart. Stimulating the base of the first digit of the thumb stimulates fatigue and insomnia. The wrist is associated with internal and external hemorrhoids, impotence, prostate glands, uterus, vagina, and urinary problems. The right and left side of the wrist are associated with the limbs of right and left legs. For more detailed explanation, and to enlarge the chart, click on the more detailed Hand Reflexology Charts above.
What are the Meridian Points in the Foot?
Foot reflexology charts are similar to the hand. The spine is located on the inside of both feet, from the big toe down to the heel.
Massaging the toes is a great way to relieve headaches as it relates to all of the bones in the skull, jaw, brain, sinuses and head. Meridian points for the spleen, liver, stomach, gall bladder and bladder can be found by massaging across from from the big toe to the smallest toe.
How to Use the Reflexology Charts
Using the reflexology charts involves massaging the areas associated with the organ or body part. Click on the chart to enlarge the view. Most reflexologists begin by massaging the area all over slowly, but firmly, to loosen it, stimulate circulation, and relax the client. Massage can be done in a circular motion clockwise and then counter-clockwise. The amount of applied pressure varies depending upon what is comfortable for each person. Some prefer light pressure and other prefer more intense pressure. If you feel crackling, or if bubbles can be felt under the point, keep gently working the meridian point until this disappears completely. Crackling or bubbles are an indication of blockages in the energy pathway and need to be dispersed. The common practice for working with meridians is to gently massage the area for about 15 to 30 seconds.
Example: How to provide relief from blocked sinuses using a reflexology chart
Reflexology can be an effective form of treatment for people around the world. 
It is something that can be safely practiced by most people in the privacy of their homes, however there are certain conditions that would warrant caution when using this practice as described above. If you are seeking more information about hand reflexology, contact your trusted health practitioner, acupuncturist, or reflexologist for more information.
Resources
American Reflexology Certification Board
Reflexology Association of America
Association of Reflexologists (UK)
Research
Choudhary, S., Kumar, G., & Singh, K. (Spring 2006). Reflexology Association of America: Reflexology reduces the requirement and quantity of pain killers after general surgery
Choudhary, S. & Singh, T. (n.d.). Reflexology Association of America: Efficacy of reflexology in prevention of post-operative nausea vomiting (pdf)
Ernst, E., Posadzki, P., & Lee, M. (2011). Reflexology: An update of a systematic review of randomised clinical trials. Maturitas 68, 116-120.
Kim M.S. et al. (2001). Effects of hand massage on anxiety in cataract surgery using local anesthesia. J Cataract Refract Surg, 27(6):884-90.
Oleson, T & Flocco, W. (1993). Randomized controlled study of premenstrual symptoms treated with ear, hand, and foot reflexology. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 82(6), 906-11.
Piquemal, M. (September 2005). Global effect of reflexology on blood flow Paper presented at the International Council of Reflexologists, Amsterdam and summarized by Christine Issel for the ICR Newsletter (Vol. 15, No. 1, March 2006, pp 18-19), reprinted at the Reflexology Association of America.
Testa, G.W. (2000). A study on the effects of reflexology on migraine headaches. Dissertation, August 2000
Williamson et al (2002). Randomised controlled trial of reflexology for menopausal symptoms. BJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 109 (9) p 1050-1055.
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This article is written by Jean Voice Dart, M.S. Special Education from Illinois State University. Jean is a published author and has written hundreds of health articles as well as hosting a local television program, “Making Miracles Happen.” She is a Registered Music Therapist, Sound Therapist, and Master Level Energetic Teacher, and is the Executive Director, founder and Health and Wellness Educator of the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com.
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
The latest buzz is that aloe vera can help prevent and treat skin cancer. Is this true or rumor? What does research say about aloe vera?
HISTORY OF ALOE VERA
Aloe vera can be traced back to ancient Egyptian times. The leaves contain a clear gel that can be used as an ointment and the green part of the leaf can be used to create a juice or a dried product that can be ingested orally. Throughout history, it has been used topically to heal wounds, soothe skin conditions, and to aid in constipation when ingested orally as a laxative. Aloe vera has also been ingested for a variety of other conditions including diabetes symptoms, asthma, epilepsy, and osteoarthritis. It’s been used as a cream to heal and relieve osteoarthritis pain, burns, sunburns, and psoriasis and can be found in over-the-counter skin products. But what does scientific research say about aloe vera?
USING ALOE VERA TO HEAL THE SKIN
Multiple studies have been conducted, primarily with mice, on the effects of aloe vera on healing the skin such as a study by V. Thamlikitkul and others, published in the 1991 Siriraj Hosp Gazzette, showing that aloe vera is effective as an ointment in relieving and soothing pain and inflammation.
Reuter and other researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial compared the anti-inflammatory effect of 97.5% pure aloe vera gel to 1% hydrocortisone and a placebo gel. They concluded that the if the aloe vera gel, was applied under an occlusive bandage for 2 days following UV exposure, it significantly reduced inflammation compared to placebo gel or 1% hydrocortisone in placebo gel, but was less effective than 1% hydrocortisone cream. The authors suggest that aloe vera gel might be useful for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions.
Choonhakarn and others conducted a randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluated the effectiveness of a prepared 70% aloe vera gel for the treatment of oral lichen planus infections compared to the base gel alone and reported a significant improvement of symptoms in the aloe vera group.
ALOE VERA AND CANCER
A few studies have been conducted on the effects of aloe vera and cancer. Many studies have been used with human skin cells in a laboratory or mice, such as the 2007 study led by M. Saini, “Anti-tumor activity of Aloe vera against DMBA/croton oil-induced skin papillomagenesis in Swiss albino mice,” from the Journal of Environmental Pathology Toxology and Oncology. This study showed that aloe vera might be helpful in reducing or treating cancer in mice but the researchers concluded that more studies are needed.
Researcher Popadic, and others, from the University of Belgrade School of Medicine found that Aloe vera and its constituents inhibit the process of skin cell production that accompanies skin cancer in a laboratory study. The researchers tested Aloe-emodin, (a part of Aloe), with human skin cells – keratinocytes – after being treated with radiation. Once radiated, keratinocytes will typically develop in the form skin tumors. The researchers found that the Aloe-emodin was significantly beneficial in stopping the progression of tumor formation after radiation by the sun. Further research is needed. No clinical research using human beings has been conducted.
Chen, and other researchers from the China Medical University found anticancer effect was greater with Emodin, as compared with Aloe-emodin and Rhein. But Aloe-emodin was observed having stronger cell repair abilities with the cells that hadn’t yet become cancerous. The researchers found that Aloe Emodin and Rhein stopped tumor progression and caused cancer cell death.
There is early evidence that oral aloe vera may reduce the risk of developing lung cancer. Further research is needed in this area to clarify whether it is aloe itself or other factors that may cause this benefit. One study conducted in Italy in 2009, tested 240 patients using aloe vera with chemotherapy for people for lung cancer, bowel cancer, or stomach cancer. 
Half the patients took liquid aloe vera three times a day in combination with standard chemotherapy treatment. In this study the cancer was controlled or shrank for a time in 67% of patients who had the combined aloe and chemotherapy treatment and in 50% of patients who had chemotherapy alone. Researchers said that patients using aloe vera had a better quality of life and that they had fewer chemotherapy side effects such as numb fingers and fatigue. More research is needed under more controlled settings.
WHAT ARE THE NEGATIVE SIDE EFFECTS OF ALOE VERA?
Does ingesting aloe vera have negative side effects? No studies have shown negative effects of using aloe vera on the skin. However, aloe vera, when digested, has a laxative effect and is effective for relieving constipation, but it can be the cause of diarrhea.
Some countries approve of injecting aloe vera. Injecting aloe vera is illegal in the USA an UK and can have serious side effects.
A two-year National Toxicology Program (NTP) study on oral ingestion of non-decolorized whole leaf extract of aloe vera found clear evidence of carcinogenic activity in male and female rats, based on tumors of the large intestine. According to the NTP, from what is known, they cannot predict that these findings are relevant to humans. The researchers concluded that more research and information is needed, including to determine how individuals use different types of aloe vera products, and the potential risks to humans.
Although aloe vera appears to be a promising alternative treatment for a variety of ailments, researchers agree that more controlled studies are needed to determine its effectiveness, both as a topical ointment or when ingested. The majority of research has been with skin cells and with laboratory animals, and therefore, researchers cannot accurately predict its effectiveness on human beings.
REFERENCES
Chen YY, Chiang SY, Lin JG, Yang JS, Ma YS, Liao CL, Lai TY, Tang NY, Chung JG. Emodin, aloe-emodin and rhein induced DNA damage and inhibited DNA repair gene expression in SCC-4 human tongue cancer cells. Anticancer Res. 2010 Mar;30(3):945-51.
Choonhakarn C, Busaracome P, Sripanidkulchai B, Sarakarn P. The efficacy of aloe vera gel in the treatment of oral lichen planus: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Dermatol. 2008;158(3):573-77.
Popadic D, Savic E, Ramic Z, Djordjevic V, Trajkovic V, Medenica L, Popadic S. Aloe-emodin inhibits proliferation of adult human keratinocytes in vitro. J Cosmet Sci. 2012 Sep-Oct;63(5):297-302.
Reuter J, Jocher A, Stump J, Grossjohann B, Franke G, Schempp CM. Investigation of the anti-inflammatory potential of Aloe vera gel (97.5%) in the ultraviolet erythema test. Skin Pharmacol Physiol.2008;21(2):106-10.
Saini M, Goyal PK, Chaudhary G. Anti-tumor activity of Aloe vera against DMBA/croton oil-induced skin papillomagenesis in Swiss albino mice. J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol. 2010;29(2):127-35.
Thamlikitkul V, Bunyapraphatsara N, Riewpaiboon W, Theerapong S, Chantrakul C, Thanaveerasuwan T. Clinical trial of aloe vera Linn. for treatment of minor burns. Siriraj Hosp Gaz.1991;43(5):313-316.
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This article is written by Jean Voice Dart, M.S. Special Education from Illinois State University. Jean is a published author and has written hundreds of health articles as well as hosting a local television program, “Making Miracles Happen.” She is a Registered Music Therapist, Sound Therapist, and Master Level Energetic Teacher, and is the Executive Director, founder and Health and Wellness Educator of the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com. Images used in this article are free public domain from Pixabay.com or Publicdomainpictures.net
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
Breast milk is one of nature’s most perfect foods. What makes breast milk so healthy? How can breast milk be used to improve health? Is breast milk the original alternative medicine?
Breast milk can heal rashes, acne, infected wounds, conjunctivitis and more. It is the best natural treatment to protect the baby.
What Exactly is in Breast Milk?
What Does Research Tell Us?
Researchers in Switzerland and Australia reported in the September 5, 2008 ACS Journal of Proteome Research that identification of proteins in human breast milk — not present in cow’s milk — that may fight disease by helping removing bacteria, viruses and other dangerous pathogen’s from an infant’s gastrointestinal tract.
Yalin Liao, and other researchers in an ACS study in 2011, ReProteomic Characterization of Human Milk Whey Proteins during a Twelve-Month Lactation Period, reported that “Human milk is a rich source of bioactive proteins that support the early growth and development of the newborn.” Their research described differences in protein patterns among the low-abundance proteins during lactation.
In another ACS study in 2012,Charles C. Nwosu, and other researchers compared breast milk and bovine milk protein. Researchers discovered that “The results suggest that high fucosylation is a general trait in human, while high sialylation and low fucosylation are general features of glycosylation in bovine milk.”
A breast pump is a mechanical device that extracts milk from the breasts. Breast pumps can be manually powered by hand or foot movements or powered by electricity or batteries.
How Can Breast Milk be Used for Healing?
Breast milk is not only beneficial for the baby when used in breastfeeding, it is also beneficial in many other ways as a powerful healing alternative medicine.
Breast milk is 87% water, packed with natural healing properties and has no known adverse reactions or side effects for most everyone. It is very important as the first and primary food for your baby. It is also considered to be one of the safest alternative healing treatments for many health ailments. It is always best to check with your trusted family physician or health care provider to determine what is best for you and your family.
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This article is written by Jean Voice Dart, M.S. Special Education from Illinois State University. Jean is a published author and has written hundreds of health articles as well as hosting a local television program, “Making Miracles Happen.” She is a Registered Music Therapist, Sound Therapist, and Master Level Energetic Teacher, and is the Executive Director, founder and Health and Wellness Educator of the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com.
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
Are there natural alternatives for chapped lips? Why do lips become dry, cracked, and chapped and what can we do to prevent it?
What natural products are effective in soothing dry, sore, chapped lips? Try these alternative treatments that are healthy and easy for everyone.
WHAT ARE CHAPPED LIPS?
Chapped lips can be bleeding, cracked, sore, peeling, dry, flaky, split, or infected and oozing with visible sores. Chapped lips can be uncomfortable, painful, and embarrassing because it can interfere with one’s ability to eat, to talk, and to kiss. If your chapped lips are bleeding and look infected, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a doctor or trusted health professional.
Healthy lips have a protective lip barrier that keeps out irritants and bacteria. The living cell layer of healthy lips maintains intercellular hydration necessary to support lip tissue. Unhealthy lips have an unstable protective lip barrier leaving the lips vulnerable to inflammation and infection. Chapped lips caused by dehydration, trauma (chewing the lips) or sun or wind damage, can lead to more serious infections if not hydrated and allowed to heal.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF CHAPPED LIPS? – Chapped lips can be the result of a number of different factors, including dry weather, sunburn, overexposure to extreme temperatures, dentures that do not fit properly, dehydration, tooth or gum infections, lip biting, a vitamin deficiency riboflavin (vitamin B2), allergies, bacterial infection, virus, drug reactions, influenza, and other medical problems. Most often people experience minor chapped lips from external conditions that can easily be modified or controlled. If you are experiencing chronic chapped or peeling lips, it’s best to take a look at your personal situation to determine the best course of action and treatment to help your lips heal.
It is very common for people to lick or chew on on the lips when stressed. Licking causes chapping and peeling. Are you stressed?
STRESS AND NERVOUSNESS – Are you stressed? Many people experience chapped lips because of nervous habits of biting the lips, peeling or picking at the lips or continuously licking the lips. Observe yourself and your habits and if you are expressing your stress or anxiety with your lips, try another way to relieve stress such as engaging in sports activities, crafts, hobbies, chewing gum, playing a musical instrument, practicing meditation, receiving a relaxing massage, sharing your frustrations with a trusted friend, counselor or psychiatrist. Take time out to listen discover if you have a nervous habit that is damaging to your lips. If so, check out our “20 Alternative Approaches to Stress” for suggestions, or seek professional help to handle stress from a counselor or your trusted health practitioner.
Homemade lip balms or natural products consisting of bees wax, olive oil, or Vitamin E oil are much less likely to cause allergic reactions.
ALLERGIES AND SENSITIVITIES – It is a common belief that Chap Stick or Vaseline or other commercial lip balms, lip gloss, or lipstick products are the best course of action for chapped lips. However, many people experience chronic chapped lips as an allergic reaction to fragrances or other chemical products and food coloring or chemical dies found in Chap sticks, lipsticks or lip balms. Vaseline is petroleum jelly. Many people have adverse reactions to petroleum products and find that this product only covers up and prolongs the chapped, dry lips and does not cure it. When the product is removed and alternative, natural products are substituted, the chapped, peeling lips often heal very quickly. Another problem with commercial products is the packaging. If a lip balm, lipstick, gloss or similar product is applied to infected lips and repeatedly applied from the same container, the lips are infected again and cannot heal. There is less chance of contamination if fresh, natural products are applied and then discarded. Be sure to thoroughly wash hands before touching the lips and applying products and to throw out used applicators and containers.
Dehydration and sunburn are common causes of chapped lips. Be careful when out in the sun and remember to keep hydrated and protect your lips from sun and wind burn.
DEHYDRATION, WIND AND SUN – Probably the two most common causes of chapped lips is dehydration and sunburn. We often have busy lives and forget to hydrate ourselves. Lack of water causes the lips to dry up quickly. You may feel that you have had plenty of water to drink, but try measuring the amount of water you drink daily. As we age we lose the ability to feel thirsty and often forget to hydrate ourselves. Also take care to avoid wind and sun exposure. Lips can be burned just as easily as our skin and we often forget to protect the lips when we are outside in the sun and wind.
ANGULAR CHEILITIS – If your chapped lips are infected or inflamed at the corners, you may have angular cheilitis. Angular cheilitis is a chronic inflammation of the mouth. It is characterized by the presence of cracked corners of lips and sores on the mouth area. 
People of all ages can have angular cheilitis, even toddlers and youth of all ages. Angular cheilitis should not be mistaken for herpes. Angular cheilitis can be painful and if treatment is not given right away, the person suffering from it would experience bleeding and oozing of pus coming from the lips.
Symptoms of angular cheilitis are cracks, splits and fissures on the corners of the mouth, pain, swelling, itchiness and bleeding in the affected areas and blisters, erosions and crusting. Angular cheilitis can be associated with an intraoral candidal infection, or oral candidiasis. Other organisms causing the infection can be staphylococci and streptococci.
To diagnose angular cheilitis, a doctor will perform a laboratory culture from a swab of the inflamed areas. This will determine if there is an existence of microorganisms like Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. Some believe that cheilitis can result from too little vitamin B12 or iron in the diet. Picking or scratching at these sores can trigger a bacterial infection that can spread. Angular cheilitis can disappear on its own without treatment, however, it is important to have a laboratory test taken to rule out underlying bacterial or viral infections and to keep the area clean, use clean hands when applying balms or moisturizers, and clean products as described in our tips above. Other treatment methods that you can discuss with your doctor include:
COLD SORES – Cold sores are caused by a common herpes virus, and they can cause pus in the lips in some cases. This type of blister can be uncomfortable and usually appears on the upper or lip. People with cold sores might be tempted to pop or lance a cold sore, however, doing might cause harmful bacteria to infect the sore and make the cold sore more inflamed and enlarged. If a cold sore has dry or oozing pus, this is an indication that a more serious bacterial infection might be present and if not treated carefully it might leave a scar. As with cheilitis, medical professionals advise that a cold sore is kept clean and left alone as much as possible to facilitate the healing process.
TWENTY NATURAL APPROACHES TO HEALING CHAPPED LIPS – Whether or not you have an infection such as a cold sore or angular cheilitis, or you just have common chapped lips caused from windburn or dehydration, cleanliness and natural products are key to healing. Here is a handy list of 20 natural remedies for healthy lips. Observe your lifestyle and see which solutions seem to fit your situation.
Vitamin E Oil is an effective, natural moisturizer for chapped lips. It is commonly found in pharmacies or drug stores.
These tips are great suggestions for minor chapped lip problems, and you should see a remarkable improvement. These remedies will not be effective you are continuing to infect yourself with contaminated products or if you have underlying infections, allergies or anxieties which must be addressed. Always consult with your trusted health professional if you suspect a bacterial or viral infection. You will need prompt medical care and treatment for more serious conditions.
Resources
Devani A, and Barankin B, Answer: Can you identify this condition?- Angular Cheilitis, Can Fam Physician. Jun 2007; 53(6): 1022–1023.
Kahana M, Yahalom R, Schewach-Millet M. Recurrent angular cheilitis caused by dental flossing. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1986;15(1):113–4.
Yesudian PD, Memon A. Nickel-induced angular cheilitis due to orthodontic braces. Contact Dermatitis. 2003;48(5):287–8
A Akpan, R Morgan, Oral candidiasis, Postgrad Med J 2002;78:455–459
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This article is written by Jean Voice Dart, M.S. Special Education from Illinois State University. Jean is a published author and has written hundreds of health articles as well as hosting a local television program, “Making Miracles Happen.” She is a Registered Music Therapist, Sound Therapist, and Master Level Energetic Teacher, and is the Executive Director, founder and Health and Wellness Educator of the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance. The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a registered 501 (c) 3 nonprofit health and wellness education organization. For more information about the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance contact us or visit our website at www.montereybayholistic.com.
Disclaimer: The Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance is a charitable, independent registered nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and does not endorse any particular products or practices. We exist as an educational organization dedicated to providing free access to health education resources, products and services. Claims and statements herein are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The statements about organizations, practitioners, methods of treatment, and products listed on this website are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is intended for educational purposes only. The MBHA strongly recommends that you seek out your trusted medical doctor or practitioner for diagnosis and treatment of any existing health condition.
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