Allergies are caused by hypersensitivity reactions that usually stem from a weak digestive system or mucus build-up in the intestinal tract that drains into and clogs the lymphatic system. Once the lymph becomes sluggish, any pollutant, irritant, toxin, or difficult to digest food will create a hypersensitivity reaction, thus allergies. So when treating the cause of allergies, whether they are food allergies or airborne, the treatment is similar. One, strengthen the digestion; two, pull the mucus off the intestinal tract; three, re-establish proper lymphatic function; four, rebuild the immu  [read more]

Allergies are caused by hypersensitivity reactions that usually stem from a weak digestive system or mucus build-up in the intestinal tract that drains into and clogs the lymphatic system. Once the lymph becomes sluggish, any pollutant, irritant, toxin, or difficult to digest food will create a hypersensitivity reaction, thus allergies. So when treating the cause of allergies, whether they are food allergies or airborne, the treatment is similar. One, strengthen the digestion; two, pull the mucus off the intestinal tract; three, re-establish proper lymphatic function; four, rebuild the immune system.

Allergies, whether from food, pollen, dust, mold, or dander, are typically a form of hypersensitivity reaction. The underlying causes of allergic symptoms are rarely from the allergens themselves, making proper Ayurvedic diagnosis essential. Based on information regarding pakriti (body type), and vikriti (imbalances), a causative diagnosis and treatment protocol can be made. Therapies focused only on the removal of the allergic response rather than the cause will be symptomatic relief at best. This approach, although useful in the short term, can create a dependency to the treatments over time while provoking a more chronic condition.

General Causes

A main causative factor of allergies is a by-product of improperly digested food. This toxic substance, called ama, is manufactured in the digestive system, and is absorbed into the circulatory system. Once systemic, ama can block and clog the channels of circulation (called srotas). There are thirteen major systems of srotas in the body providing all of the bodily means of communication. Arteries, veins, nerves, and lymph, are the major ones. The removal of ama in the circulatory system will often play a primary role in the management of immediate allergic hypersensitivity. (See under: Ama Reducing Program.)

Depending on body type, the underlying cause of allergic hypersensitivities will vary. It should be understood in a general way that mental and emotional stress are common contributing factors in a hypersensitive allergic response. For this and other ama-producing imbalances Ayurveda will initially recommend a balanced seasonal and daily routine which includes a proper diet, morning exercise, and a large relaxing lunch and light dinner. Finally, one must have proper rest which would mean bed by 10:00 pm or earlier, and up with the sun. This daily routine instruction is called Dina Charya and is the first line of treatment and prevention according to Ayurvedic medicine.

Vata Causes

The vata body type is susceptible to various hypersensitivity reactions. In the case of allergic rhinitis, a vata imbalance will cause excessive dryness in the body. When this dryness finds its way to the respiratory system and sinuses, the protective mucous lining will dry up. This natural protection acts as a filter, temperature buffer, and first line of allergic immunity. When this layer of mucous dries up, the airborne allergens of dust, pollen, and pollution act as irritants in the sinuses, evoking an immediate hypersensitivity response. The body’s natural response to these irritants is to lay down mucous as a means of protection. The dryness alone will also trigger the body to produce mucous, making allergic symptoms a common vata condition. In this instance, allergic symptoms can be chronic and constant due to a deep mucosal dryness rather than a particular allergen. For the vata body type, precautions during the beginning and end of vata season (fall and spring) must be made to prevent against vata-based allergic symptoms.

The vata body type is also particularly sensitive to lifestyle and daily routine. Most importantly with regard to allergens, the vata type must take the proper time to eat a large lunch in a relaxed atmosphere without the distractions of television, magazines, or phone calls. Such distractions aggravate the vata aspects of digestion, producing ama and hypersensitivity reactions.

Pitta Causes

The pitta type will be subject to an accumulation of heat in the body and blood. The heat is produced as a result of a physiological hypermetabolic state needed to burn off the excess ama in the blood. This he at, as does all heat, will rise in the body up into the head and neck. This a natural tendency for pitta types as seen by their tendency towards irritability and anger. Early graying hair and premature baldness are also attributed to an excess of pitta or heat rising into the head and neck. When this heat rises up into the sinuses, the effect is one of dryness along with the accumulation of impurities (ama) in the blood. The result of the dryness aggravates vata as we mentioned previously, and the excess blood ama aggravates pitta. The sinuses respond by acting as organs of excretion rather than secretion producing an allergic response.

The treatment for pitta-based allergic response is twofold. The blood must be purified with pitta-pacifying herbs and the dryness must be dealt with, as in the case of vata.

Kapha Causes

The kapha body type is classically the most susceptible to allergies, and kapha imbalances and is often mislabeled the causative factor in most allergic conditions. It is the nature of kapha to ­produce and hold onto more water, congestion, and ama, however, and the treatment of kapha in all allergies is a common mistake. The symptoms of most allergic responses are kapha in nature with the production of congestion, fatigue, and malaise; but the cause of these kapha symptoms may be vata, pitta, or kapha. This diagnosis is crucial.

It is, however, very common for the cause and symptoms of an allergic response to be kapha in nature. In this regard, the treatment is straightforward with the focus on pacifying kapha with bitter, astringent, and pungent herbs and spices, in order to remove excess mucous.

Allergy treatments can become more complicated when multiple causes are present. Imbalances in vata and kapha, for example, can easily create chronic allergic symptoms. Treatment for each are opposite in nature, and care must be given to balance both kapha and vata at the same time.

Treatments

Ama Reducing Program

The following regimen is to be followed for the duration of one month:

• sip plain hot water every half-hour for one month
• drink eight to ten glasses of warm lemon water each day
• avoid dairy and wheat and favor fruits and vegetables
• eat a big, relaxing meal at lunchtime and soup for dinner

Vata treatments

• Nasya: Sniff sesame oil deeply into both nostrils two to three times a day
• Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica): 1/2 teaspoon per day on an empty stomach
• Ginger root tea (Zingiber officinalis), three to four cups per day; also, chew small pieces as a lozenge
• Oleation and purgation: For six to seven consecutive days ingest ghee first thing in the morning. Start with two teaspoons, followed by four the next day, progressing in a like manner until a total of eight teaspoons is reached on the morning of the fourth day. On the eve of the fourth day, take six teaspoons of castor oil (a laxative dose). This removes accumulated ama from the seat of vata in the intestinal tract.

Pitta Treatments

• 1/8 teaspoon of cumin (Cuminum cyminum) seed as a lozenge during the day
•  Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica): 1/2 teaspoon twice a day on an empty stomach
• Nasya: Sniff coconut oil deeply into both nostrils two to three times a day
  Turmeric (Curcuma long a) powder: 1/2 teaspoon with 1/4 cup warm milk, three times a day after meals
• Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf tea: 3-4 cups per day as a detoxifier

Kapha treatments

• Trikatu (Piper longum, Piper nigrum, Zingiber officinalis): 1/4 teaspoon with raw honey before each meal
• Sitopladi (Piper longum, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Zingiber officinalis): 1/2 teaspoon with raw honey three times a day on an empty stomach
• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): 1/2 teaspoon with warm water after meals
• Pippali sticks (Piper longum): Boil four sticks in 1 cup of water until liquid is reduced to 1/4 cup. Drink two times a day on an empty stomach.
• Maintain a liquid diet one day per week, as ama reducing therapy

Liquid Diet

This diet generally consists of eating at regular intervals vegetables and fruits, which have been put through a blender and liquefied. Meals can be taken this way warm, or cold, and even with ice added. The liquid diet is normally part of an Ayurvedic cleansing program; putting foods through a blender prior to ingestion puts less strain on the digestive system.

References

• Atha Vale, V.B. Basic Principles of Ayurveda. Town Prinery: Bombay, India. 1980.
• Bhishagratna, K.L. Sushruta Samhita, Vols. 1-2. Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office: Varanasi, India. 1981
• Frawley, D. Ayurvedic Healing. Passage Press: Salt Lake City, Utah. 1989.
• Sharma, P.V. Caraka Samhita. Chow­khamba Orientalia: Varanasi, India. 1981

When the body is under excessive stress over a long period of time it is forced to produce a cascade of stress fighting hormones. Along with the emergency hormonal response to stress, the body sends out a message for emergency fuel to feed this hormonal response. When our bodies are under stress, we all know we crave sugar, caffeine, chips, carbs or some other high stress, quick energy food. If the body is under excessive stress it receives the message not to burn fat, but to store it. The fuel supply comes from quick burning sugars when the stress levels rise. This kind of energy is short   [read more]

When the body is under excessive stress over a long period of time it is forced to produce a cascade of stress fighting hormones. Along with the emergency hormonal response to stress, the body sends out a message for emergency fuel to feed this hormonal response. When our bodies are under stress, we all know we crave sugar, caffeine, chips, carbs or some other high stress, quick energy food. If the body is under excessive stress it receives the message not to burn fat, but to store it. The fuel supply comes from quick burning sugars when the stress levels rise. This kind of energy is short lived and soon we feel depleted and crave another sweet or energy fix. Energy highs and lows become the norm as we self-medicate with mini-meals, snacks and legal stimulants. Soon the body loses the ability to make energy last and becomes dependent on small meals and sweets. The continued high/low blood sugar swing soon overstimulates the pancreas and we become hypoglycemic - chronically low blood sugar and low energy. The more the pancreas is told to drive insulin into the cells, the quicker the cells reject this situation as they can handle only so much sugar. After a while they become insulin resistant; the insulin levels keep rising but the cells reject the insulin bringing blood sugar, creating a more severe form of blood sugar related fatigue. The pancreas soon becomes exhausted and slows or stops insulin production, which allows blood sugar levels to rise, and soon you have a case of adult onset diabetes. As this continues to happen, the initial fatigue can lead to high blood sugar anxiety and low blood sugar depressions. It is important when treating anxiety and depression that blood sugar handling problems be addressed.  Natural support for blood sugar problems consist of Ayurveda herbal formulas, diet and lifestyle treatments. Please see my book The 3-Season Diet for details.

Check out this Yoga Journal Article to learn more about how Ayurveda can balance your blood sugar.

Please schedule a consult with DR. John Douillard DC

PREVENTION - Eat with the Seasons to Boost Immunity

We are more likely to get a cold or flue when our immune system is weak, our digestion is not working effectively or when are stress levels are high.  Follow these tips each season to stay strong and healthy in the next season.

In the spring we are more susceptible to colds and flu than other times of the year. In the winter, the weather is particularly dry so our sinuses dry out and become irritated and often begin to make excessive mucus. This reactive mucus production is the perf  [read more]

PREVENTION - Eat with the Seasons to Boost Immunity

We are more likely to get a cold or flue when our immune system is weak, our digestion is not working effectively or when are stress levels are high.  Follow these tips each season to stay strong and healthy in the next season.

In the spring we are more susceptible to colds and flu than other times of the year. In the winter, the weather is particularly dry so our sinuses dry out and become irritated and often begin to make excessive mucus. This reactive mucus production is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and viruses to proliferate. Nature does its job in preventing this dryness by harvesting high fats and high protein nuts, grains, and meats to help insulate us from the coldness and dryness of winter. If we allow ourselves to dry out in the winter and disregard nature's harvest, we run the risk of excessive mucus production and the proliferation of bacteria and viruses. In the spring, due to excessive dryness of winter, we tend to make more mucus naturally. Once again, this excessive mucus predisposes us to bacterial infections and allergies. The treatment is to understand how eating with nature's seasonal harvest is the best antidote for the common cold, flu, and allergies. This is described in detail in my book The-3 Season Diet.

PREVENTION:  Herbs that Help Prevent Colds and Flus

In the winter, follow this protocol to keep your immune system strong.  Many of our patients are thrilled to finally have a healthy winter for them and their kids.

• Ashwaganda:  3 caps each morning (children can take 1 cap).
• Turmeric Plus:  3 caps each morning (children can take 1 cap).
• Vitamin D3:  3000-5000IU each morning.  (children can take 2000IU).  A new study revealed that children with low vitamin D levels were 11 time more likely to get a respiratory infection.
• Ear Oil:  1-2 times per week and before heading out into chilly weather (such as before skiing). Beneficial for adults and children.

TREATMENT - For When You Already Have the Cold or Flu

The best herbal treatment for the cause of cold and flu is enhancing circulation and drainage of the lymphatic system, flushing the toxins and the mucus back into the digestive tract. In this way, instead of killing bacteria, we are escorting the bacterial infection into the highly acidic digestive system, which terminates the bacteria's life naturally.

If you already have the cold or flu, follow this protocol to heal quickly.  We recommend keeping these remedies on hand so you can start using them at the first sign of symptoms, such as:  sore throat, stuffy/runny nose, achy joints, fatigue, general "run down" feeling. 

• Cold-Cough - take 2 caps every 2 hours.  This will liquify reactive mucus and is antiviral and antibacterial.   (Children can take 1 cap every 4 hours.  You can open the cap and mix it in a little honey if your child has a hard time swollowing capsules).
• Chywanprash:  Adults can take 10 teaspoons per day (you can even take as many as 20-30 teaspoons).  (Children can take up to 4-6 tsp per day). 
• Ear Oil:  Clear your nasal passages by flushing your cervical lymph.  This provides fast results for sore throats and any type of sinus congestion!
• Echinacea Glycerine Tincture:  take 2-4 dropperfuls in warm water every 2 hours.  (Children can take 1 dropperful every 2-4 hours in water or juice).

A very common complaint. Constipation is typically caused by a drying out of the large intestine. This can be caused by stress, poor diet, lack of exercise and lack of water intake. When the intestines get dry the mucus membranes react by producing excess mucus that lines the gut. This is a perfect place for bad bacteria, yeast and parasites to flourish. The mucus acts like a dirty filter comprimising assimilation of proper nutrients. The mucus also acts to bogg down the contractability of the intestinal wall. Laxatives - even herbal ones like senna, cascara sagrada and coffee irritate the   [read more]

A very common complaint. Constipation is typically caused by a drying out of the large intestine. This can be caused by stress, poor diet, lack of exercise and lack of water intake. When the intestines get dry the mucus membranes react by producing excess mucus that lines the gut. This is a perfect place for bad bacteria, yeast and parasites to flourish. The mucus acts like a dirty filter comprimising assimilation of proper nutrients. The mucus also acts to bogg down the contractability of the intestinal wall. Laxatives - even herbal ones like senna, cascara sagrada and coffee irritate the intestinal wall and increase the production of reactive mucus. Soon the intestinal wall becomes desensitized to natural peristalsis and normal elimination. The treatments aimed at the cause of this condition are to remove the mucus off the intestinal wall, heal the mucus membranes so they do not produce reactive mucus and tonify the intestinal wall so it can contract efficiently once again.

As we have seen with the discussion on blood sugar, fatigue can be a primary symptom of blood sugar concerns. If blood sugar handling has been ruled out, then there are other factors to investigate as the cause of fatigue. My discussion about anxiety and depression should also have been looked at to get a more complete picture of fatigue. No doubt that I can usually find some kind of fatigue in almost every patient. Let's blame stress for the initial onslaught of a fatigue-caused chemistry. Simply put, stress causes the production of stress fighting hormones, which are degenerative. They al  [read more]

As we have seen with the discussion on blood sugar, fatigue can be a primary symptom of blood sugar concerns. If blood sugar handling has been ruled out, then there are other factors to investigate as the cause of fatigue. My discussion about anxiety and depression should also have been looked at to get a more complete picture of fatigue. No doubt that I can usually find some kind of fatigue in almost every patient. Let's blame stress for the initial onslaught of a fatigue-caused chemistry. Simply put, stress causes the production of stress fighting hormones, which are degenerative. They also produce waste products called free radicals that are believed to be the cause of 80% of all disease. There are a classification of herbs called "adaptogens" which help the body adapt to stress. Adaptogenic support is mandatory when treating fatigue. In addition, at some point you have to rebuild the nervous system. The nervous system will invariably break down under stress and there are certain herbs that help repair this damage.

Although there are many different types of heart conditions, in Ayurvedic medicine we always try to treat the cause. Many of the traditional herbs have a broad-spectrum effect on supporting the heart because they address the causative factors that chronically affect the heart. The degenerative chemistry of stress in certain people causes a devastating symptomology with reference to the heart. The herbs that I suggest to support the heart not only address specific symptoms such as angina, heart palpitations, cholesterol problems, rapid heart rate and high blood pressure, but these herbs are   [read more]

Although there are many different types of heart conditions, in Ayurvedic medicine we always try to treat the cause. Many of the traditional herbs have a broad-spectrum effect on supporting the heart because they address the causative factors that chronically affect the heart. The degenerative chemistry of stress in certain people causes a devastating symptomology with reference to the heart. The herbs that I suggest to support the heart not only address specific symptoms such as angina, heart palpitations, cholesterol problems, rapid heart rate and high blood pressure, but these herbs are also well documented in clinical studies to support even more severe conditions like congestive heart failure and heart attack recovery. I have done research on breathing techniques in exercise, and these same breathing practices are used in many cardio rehab centers around the country to support optimal cardiovascular functioning. You can find this information in my books "Body, Mind and Sport" and "The 3 Season Diet," and is required reading in putting together a complete cardio rehab program.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a topic that is covered in great detail in the book, The 3-Season Diet. When the blood sugar is unstable the result can lead to fatigue, anxiety and depression. Proper scheduling of meals is important here. The biggest meal should be lunch, supper should not be the largest and the latest. When the blood sugar goes up and down, the adrenals produce stress fighting hormones which are degenerative. The waste products of these hormones are free radicals which are known to be the leading cause of aging, disease, cancer   [read more]

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a topic that is covered in great detail in the book, The 3-Season Diet. When the blood sugar is unstable the result can lead to fatigue, anxiety and depression. Proper scheduling of meals is important here. The biggest meal should be lunch, supper should not be the largest and the latest. When the blood sugar goes up and down, the adrenals produce stress fighting hormones which are degenerative. The waste products of these hormones are free radicals which are known to be the leading cause of aging, disease, cancer and death. The goal of our approach is to be able to go through the day with no cravings and have the same energy at the end of your day as when you started. This is accomplished with proper lifesyle and exercise laid out in The 3-Season Diet and Body, Mind and Sport books.

Since the Nuclear accident at Chernobyl and Japan, radioactive Iodine has been released into the atmosphere and environment. High levels of radioactive Iodine can uptake into our thyroid and may compete for the thyroids receptor sites. Some experts believe that this may be way thryoid problems are one of the fastest growing concerns world-wide. The average Japanese person gets 12mg of iodine per day.  Americans get 15% of 1mg if we're lucky. The proper amount of Iodine in the diet may provide protection for the thyroid.  Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosu  [read more]

Since the Nuclear accident at Chernobyl and Japan, radioactive Iodine has been released into the atmosphere and environment. High levels of radioactive Iodine can uptake into our thyroid and may compete for the thyroids receptor sites. Some experts believe that this may be way thryoid problems are one of the fastest growing concerns world-wide. The average Japanese person gets 12mg of iodine per day.  Americans get 15% of 1mg if we're lucky. The proper amount of Iodine in the diet may provide protection for the thyroid.  Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus), Kombu and other sea vegetables are available sources of natural Iodine.* Since Iodine and Selenium are both depleted in our soils, Iodine and Selenium supplementation  needs to be ruled out. Read my Iodine Deficiency article and watch the video.  We  carry an iodine home testing kit which can confirm a suspected deficiency.

>>>Read my Article and watch my video about Iodine Deficiency.

VIDEO by John Douillard DC:

Iodine Deficiency

In the past five years, the once thought epidemic of the past has come back to haunt us.  The number of chronic lyme disease patients I see has grown exponentially.  Lyme disease, when caught early can be effectively treated with antibiotics.  The problem is that many sufferers of Lyme disease have reoccurring symptoms that can be incredibly difficult to treat. 

  [read more]

In the past five years, the once thought epidemic of the past has come back to haunt us.  The number of chronic lyme disease patients I see has grown exponentially.  Lyme disease, when caught early can be effectively treated with antibiotics.  The problem is that many sufferers of Lyme disease have reoccurring symptoms that can be incredibly difficult to treat. 

Lyme is named after the city of Lyme, Connecticut where it seemed to originate.  Deer ticks carry the Borrelia bacteria, a type of spirochete, which burrows itself into the deep tissues of the body making it hard to access and eradicate.  I have found that the best way to support Lyme is with an arsenal of therapies aimed at both building the immune system, detoxing the body and supporting the body's natural detox channels that are often congested, making that person more vulnerable. to the chronic version of this disease. 

I should also mention that I have rarely had success with a patient with chronic Lyme who hasn't been willing to unravel the emotional traumas that seem to manifest as deeply seated molecules of emotion and are held on to for dear life.  Lyme is a fat soluble bacterium and the toxins released are fat soluble neurotoxins that can challenge the body's ability to maintain stable mood, energy and neurological function.  Therefore, support the body's ability to detox fat cells is indicated.

• Ashwaganda -- a  powerful adaptogen  -- is what I use to help the body respond to stress.* 
• Manjistha to de-stagnate the lymphatic system, which drains the toxic waste from fat cells while activating the body's natural immune response.* 
• I use  Neem to boost the body's immunity.*

This herbal support, along with an appropriate antibiotic therapy from your medical doctor, can be effective support for chronic Lyme.

. 

During menopause, the ovaries begin to think about retirement. But that does not mean that hormonal production stops. It just means that the ovaries stop producing them. Ancillary sites of hormonal production must be activated for this transition to be smooth. The brain, specifically the anterior pituitary, must actively secrete stimulating hormones that make a request for more estrogens and progesterone. It is common to take natural progesterone and natural estrogens as hormonal supplementation. But as a first line of defense, you run the risk of telling your own body not to bother making   [read more]

During menopause, the ovaries begin to think about retirement. But that does not mean that hormonal production stops. It just means that the ovaries stop producing them. Ancillary sites of hormonal production must be activated for this transition to be smooth. The brain, specifically the anterior pituitary, must actively secrete stimulating hormones that make a request for more estrogens and progesterone. It is common to take natural progesterone and natural estrogens as hormonal supplementation. But as a first line of defense, you run the risk of telling your own body not to bother making your own hormones. My choice is to first ensure higher center function in making the request for the hormones, and then with herbal hormonal precursors, provide a nutritional base that the body needs to make its own hormones. The body will rely on the liver and the skin to make up for the ovarian retirement. Many women taking hormone replacement therapy are often not experiencing symptomatic relief. In these cases, one can combine using hormone replacement therapy and herbal support therapies. This process may be complicated and coaching may be necessary with a health care professional.

Depression is probably the number one ailment I see in my practice. It is again commonly treated by masking the symptoms with antidepressants. In this case, opposite to anxiety, the approach is to stimulate the nervous system in an attempt to keep it from being depressed. Traditionally, it is the same cause for both conditions of anxiety and depression. It is a lack of vitality and energy and thus the nervous system does not have the ability to stabilize the moods. If stress is consistent enough, then the nervous system becomes depleted, exhibits fatigue and therefore is susceptible to  [read more]

Depression is probably the number one ailment I see in my practice. It is again commonly treated by masking the symptoms with antidepressants. In this case, opposite to anxiety, the approach is to stimulate the nervous system in an attempt to keep it from being depressed. Traditionally, it is the same cause for both conditions of anxiety and depression. It is a lack of vitality and energy and thus the nervous system does not have the ability to stabilize the moods. If stress is consistent enough, then the nervous system becomes depleted, exhibits fatigue and therefore is susceptible to anxiety and depression. In many cases blood sugar handling problems can lead to the susceptibility to nervous system conditions.

It is well known that there is no adequate treatment or known cause of MS.  However, stress and physiological exhaustion almost always play a causative role. See the sections on Stress and Fatigue. When treating MS there are many Ayurvedic herbs that have proven effective. I refer you to Andrew Weil’s Eight Weeks to Optimal Health. The chapter "A Tribute to Ashwaganda" discusses a case history of a patient of mine who had MS. 

New research has linked MS and othe  [read more]

It is well known that there is no adequate treatment or known cause of MS.  However, stress and physiological exhaustion almost always play a causative role. See the sections on Stress and Fatigue. When treating MS there are many Ayurvedic herbs that have proven effective. I refer you to Andrew Weil’s Eight Weeks to Optimal Health. The chapter "A Tribute to Ashwaganda" discusses a case history of a patient of mine who had MS. 

New research has linked MS and other auto-immune conditions to a vitamin D deficiency*.  B-12 is also a common deficiency that makes the nervous system vulnerable*.  Ashwagandha and Bacopa and Anxiety-Free are herbs I use successfully to boost depleted reserves of the nervous system*. 

When muscles are strained due to overuse, postural stress or injury, they go into spasm. When muscles are in spasm they lose blood supply. Without blood supply, which is needed to maintain the elasticity of the muscle, the muscle lays down scar tissue. The build up of scar tissue in the muscle renders the function of the muscle stiff and rigid instead of elastic. These tense muscles now attach to joints and compromise the joint play and intrinsic blood supply in the joint capsule. As with the muscles, when blood supply in the joint is compromised, scar tissue is laid down, joints become sti  [read more]

When muscles are strained due to overuse, postural stress or injury, they go into spasm. When muscles are in spasm they lose blood supply. Without blood supply, which is needed to maintain the elasticity of the muscle, the muscle lays down scar tissue. The build up of scar tissue in the muscle renders the function of the muscle stiff and rigid instead of elastic. These tense muscles now attach to joints and compromise the joint play and intrinsic blood supply in the joint capsule. As with the muscles, when blood supply in the joint is compromised, scar tissue is laid down, joints become stiff and eventually arthritic. The herbs or soft tissue and chiropractic care I offer  support the  break down scar tissue and re-establish blood supply to both the muscles and the joints.* 

Parasites are everywhere. Some people get them and some people don't. Instead of killing them, it may be more prudent to ask the question, "Why did I get them while others did not?" This usually stems from a weakness in the high acid upper digestive system and excessive mucous that breeds bad bacteria, yeast and parasites in the large intestine. Effective treatment for parasites involves strengthening the digestion, pulling the mucous off the intestinal wall and supporting efficient bowel elimination. Symptoms of parasites can be chronic bloating, gas, belching, constipation, diarrhea, bad   [read more]

Parasites are everywhere. Some people get them and some people don't. Instead of killing them, it may be more prudent to ask the question, "Why did I get them while others did not?" This usually stems from a weakness in the high acid upper digestive system and excessive mucous that breeds bad bacteria, yeast and parasites in the large intestine. Effective treatment for parasites involves strengthening the digestion, pulling the mucous off the intestinal wall and supporting efficient bowel elimination. Symptoms of parasites can be chronic bloating, gas, belching, constipation, diarrhea, bad breath, mood disorders and fatigue.

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy - Nearly 60% of men between 40 and 60 have BPH. This is due to a increase of accumulated testosterone in the prostate, which converts to dihydrotestosterone. This hormone, DHT, is responsible for promoting excessive cellular reproduction and inhibiting enzymatic activity that would typically break down this male hormonal build-up. The most widely known herb for BPH is called Saw Palmetto.* Many clinical studies show the effectiveness of this herb against BPH.* It seems to work by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone.* It also inhibits the a  [read more]

Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy - Nearly 60% of men between 40 and 60 have BPH. This is due to a increase of accumulated testosterone in the prostate, which converts to dihydrotestosterone. This hormone, DHT, is responsible for promoting excessive cellular reproduction and inhibiting enzymatic activity that would typically break down this male hormonal build-up. The most widely known herb for BPH is called Saw Palmetto.* Many clinical studies show the effectiveness of this herb against BPH.* It seems to work by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone.* It also inhibits the ability for dihydrotestosterone to bind on prostatic cell receptor sites.* Any effective treatment of prostate will be built around a good quality Saw Palmetto product.*

Herbs to flush the urinary tract, like Regenerate (Shilajit) and Gokshura, are also very effective to support the prostate.*  Selenium deficiency was found in a significant percentage of men with prostate cancer.* 

The buildup of tough thick scar tissue is most notably seen in an autoimmune condition called Scleroderma where the skin throughout the body (inside and out) thickens with scar tissue. The following list of Scleroderma symptoms are due to the uncontrollable build up of scar tissue in the body's epithelium:

• Thickening of the skin
• Swelling of the hands and feet
• Pain and stiffness of the joints
•   [read more]

The buildup of tough thick scar tissue is most notably seen in an autoimmune condition called Scleroderma where the skin throughout the body (inside and out) thickens with scar tissue. The following list of Scleroderma symptoms are due to the uncontrollable build up of scar tissue in the body's epithelium:

• Thickening of the skin
• Swelling of the hands and feet
• Pain and stiffness of the joints
• Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold fingers due to scar tissue)
• Gastrointestinal tract problems
• Facial problems (tightening of skin, limiting mobility of mouth and eyelids)
• Dental problems (change in bite; loosening of teeth because of collagen deposition)
• Fatigue attributable to fibrosis in the heart muscle
• Generalized aching and weakness caused by fibrosis in the muscles 
• Kidney, heart, and lung involvement

In numerous studies, Brahmi has been shown to be an effective treatment for Scleroderma as it remodels collagen production and thus reverses scar tissue production or thickening of the skin(1).* It has been shown to be effective in periodontal disease, wound healing, venous insufficiency and Raynouds syndrome - all components of Scleroderma and scar tissue production(2).* 

References

1. Bonte F et al 1994; Maquart FX et al 1999; Widgerow AD et al 2000
2. Guseva NG et al 1998

These are typically caused by the skin being utilized aggressively as a detoxification pathway. The skin is the body's third choice for detoxification, after the liver and the kidneys. In certain conditions, if the blood becomes toxic or the lympathic system becomes sluggish, the skin takes the lead for detoxification. This process can irritate and inflame the delicate layers of the skin and create a rash. So it is important when treating skin rashes to close the door of detoxification with external treatments, as well as facilitate new pathways of detoxification internally. For this, treat  [read more]

These are typically caused by the skin being utilized aggressively as a detoxification pathway. The skin is the body's third choice for detoxification, after the liver and the kidneys. In certain conditions, if the blood becomes toxic or the lympathic system becomes sluggish, the skin takes the lead for detoxification. This process can irritate and inflame the delicate layers of the skin and create a rash. So it is important when treating skin rashes to close the door of detoxification with external treatments, as well as facilitate new pathways of detoxification internally. For this, treatment of the lymphatic system is key. Our LifeSpa skin care line has been formulated as medicines for the skin with active ingredients which support lymphatic function, thus restoring the skin's natural ability to function as an organ of detoxification without irritation.* The LifeSpa Skin Care Products are 100 percent preservative and chemical free, which is essential when treating the skin and restoring its normal function.* Most skin products are loaded with chemicals, which clog the pores and further inhibit the skin from functioning as a detoxification organ.

In the spring we are more susceptible to sore throats. In the winter, the weather is particularly dry so our sinuses dry out and become irritated, causing sore throats and often making excessive mucous. This mucous production is the perfect breading ground for bacteria and viruses to proliferate. Nature does its job in preventing this dryness by harvesting high fats and high protein: nuts, grains, and meats to help insulate us from the coldness and dryness of winter. If we allow ourselves to dry out in the winter and disregard nature's harvest, we run the risk of excessive mucous production  [read more]

In the spring we are more susceptible to sore throats. In the winter, the weather is particularly dry so our sinuses dry out and become irritated, causing sore throats and often making excessive mucous. This mucous production is the perfect breading ground for bacteria and viruses to proliferate. Nature does its job in preventing this dryness by harvesting high fats and high protein: nuts, grains, and meats to help insulate us from the coldness and dryness of winter. If we allow ourselves to dry out in the winter and disregard nature's harvest, we run the risk of excessive mucous production and the proliferation of bacteria and viruses. In the spring, due to the excessive dryness of winter, we tend to make more mucous naturally. Once again, this excessive mucous predisposes us to bacterial infections and allergies. The best treatment for this is by understanding how eating with nature's seasonal harvest is the best antidote for sore throats. This is described in detail in my books The 3 Season Diet and Perfect Health for Kids. The best herbal treatment for the cause of sore throat is enhancing circulation and drainage of the lymphatic system, flushing the toxins and the mucous back into the digestive tract. In this way, instead of killing bacteria, we are escorting the bacterial infection into the highly acidic digestive system, which terminates the bacteria's life naturally.

Anxiety has become one of the most prevalent conditions I treat, along with fatigue and depression. The classic Western medical treatment for anxiety is to sedate the nervous system so one feels less stimulated or less anxious. This will, in most cases, relieve the symptoms, but the cause is rarely addressed. In many cases anxiety is caused by a lack of energy, not too much energy. A sedative usually resolves the symptoms, but leaves the individual with even less energy. It is understood in many traditional systems of medicine that the body needs sufficient vitality or energy to maintain no  [read more]

Anxiety has become one of the most prevalent conditions I treat, along with fatigue and depression. The classic Western medical treatment for anxiety is to sedate the nervous system so one feels less stimulated or less anxious. This will, in most cases, relieve the symptoms, but the cause is rarely addressed. In many cases anxiety is caused by a lack of energy, not too much energy. A sedative usually resolves the symptoms, but leaves the individual with even less energy. It is understood in many traditional systems of medicine that the body needs sufficient vitality or energy to maintain normal moods. In fact the body uses this energy to sedate itself in stressful times and to maintain a stable mood. The most overlooked treatment for anxiety is in the rejuvenation of the nervous system rather than its sedation.

For more on Stress, see sections on: Fatigue or Blood Sugar.

The thyroid's job is to communicate with higher and lower centers. For this communication to take place, circulation must be optimal. If the cervical lymph is congested indicated by a  history of sore throats, swollen glands, neck pain, chronic sinus problems, colds or headaches, the circulation to the  thyroid may be compromised. There are Ayurvedic herbs that suppport the thyroid and the lymph but care for the whole body including diet, exercise and lifestyle is important.

>>>Read my Article and watch my video about Iodine Def  [read more]

The thyroid's job is to communicate with higher and lower centers. For this communication to take place, circulation must be optimal. If the cervical lymph is congested indicated by a  history of sore throats, swollen glands, neck pain, chronic sinus problems, colds or headaches, the circulation to the  thyroid may be compromised. There are Ayurvedic herbs that suppport the thyroid and the lymph but care for the whole body including diet, exercise and lifestyle is important.

>>>Read my Article and watch my video about Iodine Deficiency, which is connected to thyroid imbalances.

VIDEO by John Douillard DC:

Iodine Deficiency

 

When trying to lose weight, it is important to re-educate the body's ability to burn fat as the main source of fuel. When you burn fat, you don't get hungry and you don't crave. The problem is that most weight loss programs force you to burn fat via starvation and deprivation. Ninety nine percent of those programs have been proven failures. In The 3 Season Diet, I outline a logical and natural approach to re-setting the fat burners. This is essential reading for anyone looking to lose weight. The herbs I recommend are specific to imbalances that   [read more]

When trying to lose weight, it is important to re-educate the body's ability to burn fat as the main source of fuel. When you burn fat, you don't get hungry and you don't crave. The problem is that most weight loss programs force you to burn fat via starvation and deprivation. Ninety nine percent of those programs have been proven failures. In The 3 Season Diet, I outline a logical and natural approach to re-setting the fat burners. This is essential reading for anyone looking to lose weight. The herbs I recommend are specific to imbalances that may be obstacles in this weight loss program. These herbs are to be used in conjunction with the life style program laid out in my book. Weight gain often needs a supportive cast and specific, individualized intervention.

I am available via a phone consultation service to provide the support.

Female imbalances can happen for a number of reasons. Stress, poor lymphatic drainage, impurities in the blood and hormonal imbalances are a few of the causes. For hormonal imbalances, I suggest you read the information on Menopause. For circulatory imbalances that can predispose you to cysts, fibroid tumors and other sorts of menstrual difficulties, there are a variety of herbs I will describe below. Since stress plays such a powerful role in this area, please look on the sections on Stress,   [read more]

Female imbalances can happen for a number of reasons. Stress, poor lymphatic drainage, impurities in the blood and hormonal imbalances are a few of the causes. For hormonal imbalances, I suggest you read the information on Menopause. For circulatory imbalances that can predispose you to cysts, fibroid tumors and other sorts of menstrual difficulties, there are a variety of herbs I will describe below. Since stress plays such a powerful role in this area, please look on the sections on Stress, Fatigue, and Anxiety.

While stress can cause progesterone and testosterone levels to deplete, this is naturally occuring during menopause.  This leaves many women with unnaturally high estrogen.  Environmental estrogens contribute to this imbalance.  Herbse like Shatavari, Hormone-Free, and Chaste Tree Berry act as processor support to bring the hormones back into balance.*

A more common problem is congestion in lymph drainage from the reproductive system.  This causes bloating, PMS, fibroid cysts, breast tenderness and more.  To destagnate the lymph, I have had amazing results with an herb called Manjistha.*  Once the lymph is flowing, often many reproductive problems naturally resolve.