ODIN's Ravens, Magical Myth and Fact!

Odin enthroned with weapons, wolves and ravens.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Norse myth tells us that the god Odin has two ravens perched on his shoulders. Their names are Huginn (meaning thought) and Muninn (meaning memory). These Ravens, are more than Odin's pets, they are his informants and messengers. He sends them out every day into the world, upon their return, they relate to Odin everything that they have seen and heard.

But what do we really know about "ravens" in general? I thought it would be interesting to explore this subject. Ravens, are in a family of birds called corvids and are powerfully associated with witchcraft and magic.

Ravens are in the same family of birds as crows. But ravens hunt more than crows, who are mainly scavengers. When mythology distinguishes between the two, ravens are usually associated with transformative magic while crows are identified with healing. Both are teachers and sponsors of magic and shamanism.

Ravens are characterized by their shiny black color and their raucous, loud voices. Daytime birds they noisily greet the sun. As a result, they are identified with solar power and may be understood to venerate the Sun themselves.

Ravens, are in many worldwide myths and are generally considered to be "trickster" heroes. This includes Celtic, Greek, Hungarian, Japanese, Native American, Scandinavian, Vietnamese, but most especially in the indigenous traditions of Siberia and North America's Pacific Northwest.

Ravens are assertive and unafraid of people; and willing to play a joke on a person, as well as a dog, cat or on each other. Shiny things attract them and they have been known to steal them.

The associations of Ravens with witchcraft and shamanism pre-date Christianity. After Christianity took hold the perceptions of Ravens changed. Rather than positive associations with wise-women, shaman, and seers Ravens were now associated with diabolism and sin.

In the eyes of the Christian Church, this probably had a lot to do with their color, black, their sharp harsh voices, intelligence and assertive nature. Shades of the wicked queen's ravens in Walt Disney's version of,"Snow White"?

Because Ravens are blackbirds and daily herald the light, the church identified them with Satan in his guise as Lucifer, the fallen angel and light bringer.

Brightest of Blessings,

Lory

By Lory Woortman Lory Woortman is a writer, watercolor artist and garden designer. Lory is interested in the study of quantum physics, Norse Myths and Religion. She lives in a small country town in North East Pennsylvania with her writer husband, Ellis and her little dog Dixie. Lory has a blog and written many articles that are "Free," pertaining to Norse Mythology, Shamanism, Runes and Quantum Physics. http://mistressofenchantment.blogspot.com/ Article Source: EzineArticles

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Replacing Hormones for HEALTHY AGING

The Eyes of Age - Photo  by Anne Worner 

Aging can affect all of us by changing our hormone levels. As we age the level of a hormone that is formed by, our glands decline. Our glands produce the hormones and release them through the bloodstreams. As we grow older, hormone production slows. To correct the slowness sometimes hormone replacement is essential. Before you jump the gun, however, searching for a replacement take note that medical experts discovered that men who seek hormone replacement therapy should consider carefully. The replacement therapy is behind, or part of the cause of prostate cancer. You want to check with your doctor always before taking any non-prescribed supplements, therapy treatments, etc.

Our body produces two major hormones that are very important. We start to lose these necessary elements as aging progresses. Our body relies on estrogen and testosterone to keep our metabolism, sex reproduction functions and so forth healthy.

Testosterone is not only important for the men but women too.  Men need a higher-level of testosterone. The hormones are what promote facial hair, larger muscles, and deeper voices. Testosterone is what makes the men seem younger and helps them to perform sexually since it is their drive. As it lowers in men, they lose their sex drive. On the other hand, too much testosterone in our bodies can induce side effects, such as heart disease and enlarge the prostate glands. For this purpose, you want to consult with your doctor before taking replacement hormone therapy.

Estrogen is the other major hormone that our bodies need to keep up with life in general.  Women take estrogen to counteract menopause by taking a supplement direct by their doctor. Taking estrogen can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, Alzheimer's. Estrogen therapy reduces our risks, yet side effects can lead to uterus or breast cancer. Some women experience blood clotting while others may not. In addition, some women have endured heart attacks and strokes after taking estrogen therapy units. Like all other supplements or treatments over-the-counter, one must consult with their physician before taking the treatments. Discuss the good and bad points of taking replacement therapies, such as estrogen and testosterone.

Do you have a hard time sleeping at night?

Maybe you’re lacking the Melatonin hormone. The lack of melatonin is known to interrupt sleeping patterns as we age. Our glands produce Melatonin and it slows down, as we grow older. A study shows that while we are sleeping during the hours of 8PM and 5AM, is when this hormone is produced the most. By taking Melatonin supplements, it can help in the reduction of breast cancer and help to reverse aging along with improving our sleep. The side effects may include drowsiness. Melatonin can cause the blood vessels to constrict as well. It depends if your body has sufficient or deficient amounts. Again, talk with your doctor first. Melatonin according to few can cause heart conditions. Melatonin is dangerous to those diagnosed with high blood pressure. Like most things, it is very important to consult your physician before taking this supplement.

Discussing the aspects of healthy aging:

We have various aspects of the body to consider when discussing healthy aging. Our body produces hormones, cell bodies, neurons, and so on. When our bodily functions are interrupted, it affects the body and mind as a whole and determines how fast we will age. Still, you must consider that environmental factors, doctors, medications, smoking, using alcohol excessively and so forth plays a part in our aging process. In fact, we have to review normal aging versus abnormal aging when considering healthy aging.

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Diamonds - Palaeolithic age

Venus of Willendorf - Picture: Wikipedia

As a species, we love to adorn ourselves with jewelry, makeup, hair accessories. We do it now to enhance our looks, to attract a mate and because it just makes us feel good about ourselves. Some forms of adornment are symbolic – like wedding rings. Or they’re used to make a statement about our lifestyles, like multiple piercings and earrings.

Have you ever wondered what the origins are of such self-decoration? Was there a meaning behind it? Or did we just start wearing beads, necklaces, and earrings as our awareness of self-increased and as we evolved?

We know that the earliest jewelry of bits of bones, shells and other personal adornments appeared in graves about 40,000 years ago. The idea that there was an afterlife, and the belief in spirits both good and bad, gave rise to the means to attract the good spirits and ward off the bad ones.

People protected themselves from evil spirits with adornments in the form of necklaces or bracelets and pierced themselves with the same bones and shells to have these amulets on their persons at all times. At this time people also started painting their bodies with red ochre, which can be considered the earliest form of makeup. They also started lining their eyes with kohl to protect themselves against the force known as the “Evil Eye.”

Even today, much jewelry takes the form of amulets. People wear crosses around their necks, or the Star of David, or wear a Claddagh ring – all to attract good fortune or ward off bad luck. There are even more throwbacks to this earliest form of magic, such as a lucky rabbit’s foot, or a lucky penny. Or we often have less well known, more personal amulets that have a meaning to us alone but are still worn as good luck charms and amulets.

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Enhancing Your Life with FENG SHUI

Feng Shui - Photo: Pixabay

The ancient practice of Feng shui is one of the oldest forms of geomancy in the world and can be traced back as far as 3500 years ago in ancient China.  The word literally means wind and water and this practice believes in the notion that qi or vital energy can greatly influence and improve a person’s life by achieving balance and harmony in their surroundings.

To apply this practice means having to recognize the relationship between man and the environment he lives in. The key to this practice is locating the all-important qi by arranging objects inside or outside of your home or even your office space so that qi continuously flows freely in the space thereby producing a positive impact in different aspects of your life.  This ancient practice and belief are still being applied today and here are some methods where the art of balance and harmony can make a difference in a person’s life.

Using the Five Phases Method

The five phases method relies on the five elements or phases of fire, earth, metal, water, and wood.  These elements interrelate with each other through a creation cycle where fire produces earth, earth produces metal, metal produces water and water produce wood.  Each element also corresponds to a particular direction where water is placed in the north, fire is the south, east is wood, west is metal and earth is the center.

The best way to apply this method is to make sure that your room or the space you live in has a balance of all these elements to produce good qi otherwise too much of a particular element might go against the other elements and produce harmful qi instead.

Using the Flying Stars Method

Probably the most difficult method to apply Feng shui is the flying star method which takes into account the date your house or office was built, a detailed floor plan and the outside environment of the place.  It is similar to having a birth sign in astrology only this time it’s your property’s birth sign.

Although this method can be complex, it is the most accurate of methods and usually done by master practitioners of the craft.  What this method aims to achieve is to harmonize your space by finding out the best elements to enhance it and the elements that need to be avoided.

Using the Eight Mansions Method

The most popular application of Feng shui is the eight mansions method or the Ba Zhai.  This method requires you to calculate your Kua number based on your birth date.  This will help you determine your auspicious direction because each Kua number corresponds to a particular direction.

This method aims to find out which directions are good for you and which to avoid.  It also helps you find out if you are compatible with that particular area you’re living or staying in.  Finding out the best direction for you and enhancing that space can help you become more productive in terms of career, relationships, health, and luck.

Feng shui-Proof Your Life

Testimonies of the benefits of this ancient practice are many and its effectiveness can be traced from ancient times otherwise this practice would not have survived today.  The concept is simple and everyone can benefit with some semblance of balance and harmony in their lives.  It’s just a matter of recognizing the value of qi and making sure everything in your surroundings brings you peace.

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The Beginnings of Traditional CHINESE MEDICINE: Mixing Together Natural Remedies

Chinese Medicine - Photo  by moriza 

Alternative medicine and holistic healing are based on concepts and philosophies of an ancient science.  At the root of many holistic practices are the philosophies and ideas that come from Chinese medicine.  From the beginnings of this practice has been a growth in natural methods to help promote healing and balance.

The beginnings of Chinese medicine as a practice come from the year 800 BC.  Even though this practice began before this, it was only recorded beginning in this year through a book known as the “Huang Di Nei Jeng” or “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine.”  The methods that were used in this book were based on the herbal remedies that were most significant in helping with holistic healing.  

The idea of this particular book was based on the Yellow Emperor, one of the greatest rulers in Chinese history.  He is thought to have lived in 4700 BC and is often attributed to a mythical character with a status of royalty that provided inspiration to those living in the orient.  It is this mythical character that this book of medicine is still portrayed under, with the attribution to the Yellow Emperor’s knowledge that was passed down holistically.

The beginning of this book included 12 prescriptions through herbs that were used with a combination of twenty-eight different ingredients.  By the year 220 BC, the book had become so popular that medical services were established based on the remedies from the Yellow Emperor.  The adjustments that were made from this book included detailed classifications of the herbs, how they worked, their strength and what their properties were for healing different ailments.

Over time, new publications and philosophies were added to this book in order to provide practitioners with new methods and substances on the basis of the Yellow Emperor’s remedy book.  These additions provided new insights and books, all the way into the 1700s with the contribution of the Theory of Herbal Medicine.

The ancient practices of Chinese medicine through herbal remedies are a true philosophy that shows how time withstands the ideas of holistic treatments.  Through the growth of herbal practices, several in the East have found ways to provide insight and balances between different herbs for better practices to gain energy and balance in one’s life.

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CANDLE MAKING - Additives

Burning Red Candle Deutsch: Brennende rote Kerze
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are eight distinct candle making additives used in the candle making process. Some makers choose not to use them at all while others take advantage of what each type of additive has to offer to their candle making process. Candle wax additives are inexpensive and work well if you are educated in how to use them and why to use each kind. 

Kemamide is a fine powder. It has a hint of ivory in the color, but it is close to being transparent. This type of additive becomes clumped if it is exposed to humidity so keep it in a closed, dry environment. Use this type of additive as a release agent. Add one teaspoon for each pound of wax.

Poly-AC is a fine powder, white in color. It has a dry texture and should also be stored in a dry environment to prevent clumping. This additive is a hardener. To be effective, add one teaspoon for each pound of wax. 

Chimasorb 81 is a powder with a yellowish tint. Of all the additives, this one is the most likely to clump, even in areas of low humidity. Chimasorb 81 is used to enhance color. You do not need much of it, 1/10 of a percent for each pound of wax. 

Stearic Powder is flaky. The color is white. This additive doesn’t react to humidity at all so it is an agreeable product to use for hardening. They amount you will use depends on the type of candles you are making. This additive helps reduce the temperature needed to melt the wax. Add about three teaspoons for each pound of wax. Be careful not to over use Stearic Powder as doing so will cause damage to the wax. 

103 Vybar generally is sold in the form of very small beads. The beads flow loosely and do not stick or clump together, even in areas of high humidity. 103 Vybar is a hardener as well. It will add a very creamy texture to your candle wax. This is a perfect hardener to use for scented candles. Add one teaspoon to for every pound of wax. 

Paraflint is another hardener. It comes in beaded form similar to the 103 Vybar. However, the beads are much larger. You will want to use one teaspoon for every pound of wax. 

Poly 400 comes in the form of beads that vary is size and shape. This is a UV inhibitor, which will keep your candles from fading in the sunlight. This additive is also to be used at the rate of one teaspoon for every pound of wax. 

BHT Crystal is a yellowish powder. This is an antioxidant for wax that has been stored in liquid form for a length of time. Using this crystal will also add a very pretty luster to your wax. 

Candle making additives can add a variety of features to your wax. The type of additives you choose to use will depend on the types of candles you are going to make as well as the climate in your region. Be careful to use candle making additives in the right amounts or you will cause damage to the wax, resulting in ill effects in the visual aspects of the candles as well as their ability to burn properly. There are many great candle making books out there to help you figure out which types of additives to use for the various types of candles you can make. 

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6 Truths about AYURVEDA

Launch of Ayurvedic Eye Care Program for children
 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

#1 Ayurvedic medicine is less effective.

Truth: It is true that this method of treatment calls for more patience and endurance. The effectiveness can be cited by this example.

Whenever there is a tear in a cloth or a hole in a pitcher, we intend to rectify it using the similar material that it is made of. Similarly, any fault in human body also calls to be corrected by use of natural resources, as much as possible.

#2 Ayurvedic medicines are slow in showing results.

Truth: The irony lies in the delay from patient’s side. Most patients visiting holistic practitioners take their time in trying other systems of medicine so as to derive a faster result. This not only delays the effect of medicine, it also hampers the working of the drug. This is because the patient has either tried much more complicated and powerful combination of drugs, the effect of which needs to be neutralized first. Or in the meantime, his malady has substantially become deep-rooted and taken chronic form. It may at times show to work slowly, but as the fable goes slow and steady wins the race.

# 3 Ayurvedic medicine has side effects.

Truth: Any side effect from the medicine, of any therapy, may result from the misuse of the drug, either in processing or in prescribing. As far as a side effect or after effect is concerned, I believe time-tested medicines are safer provided the former two factors are precise. The safety of Ayurvedic medicine and mode of treatment may be advocated in 3 pints.

1. In Ayurveda, the very first principle in treating a disease is to do away with the basic cause, and also to see that no new ailment emerges as a consequence. A disease is eradicated from its roots.

2. Ayurveda insists that medicine is centered at the patient, then on the disease. The mind, body, and soul are considered a tripod and medicine are prescribed for overall health augmentation.

3. Since Ayurveda deals with preparations mainly from herbs and natural resources, it is a harmless therapy with least or no side effects.

#4 Ayurvedic medicines are for older patients.

Truth: There is no known limitation in this form of treatment. It is equally suited to all age groups. Ayurveda could be considered a boon for children when their body system is yet tender and in process of immunity building. The natural products do not interfere with their body resistance and at the same time tends to be more safe and comforting.

#5 Ayurvedic medicines are just an alternative.

Truth: the Ayurvedic system of medicine is incorrectly quoted as an alternative therapy as this has always been the most ancient and complete system of medicine. It’s been existing before the birth of other medical therapies. The word Ayurveda is itself derived from ‘Ayush’ which means life and ‘Veda’ which means science. Therefore, Ayurveda is the complete science of life. It is a treasure to provide every individual a life full of health, vigor, and vitality.

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Various Trends Of ASTROLOGICAL Predictions

Guercino: Personification of Astrology - Photo  by    euthman 

Astrological Predictions are often said to be least connected with reality, however number of people seeking the help of astrologers regarding these predictions are increasing. Most of the time despite constant debate on the credential of these predictions, they turn out to be true or very near to the truth.

Well, individual astrological predictions about a person are made on the basis of his/her birth chart. Birth Chart is examined in relation to various planetary movements at present and at the time of the birth of the person to find out their cosmic effect on the person’s life and the forecast is made accordingly.

Astrological predictions or forecast is an age-old practice that was prevalent even in ancient civilizations of Rome and China. Chinese astrology and old Vedic astrology were of great assistance in decision making in those bygone eras. These decisions were rather based on predictions offered by astrologers.

Despite a surge in a number of forecast seekers, astrology is subdued as a stream that can't make precise predictions instead it could reveal some trends related to your future. But for believers, astrology can surely make absolute predictions as it bases its predictions upon the person's birth chart details and stars.

The daily astrological prediction that is also known as daily horoscope offers an insight into future of folks with twelve differing sun signs. A common forecast is offered for people of one particular sign.

These predictions are not restricted to only one or two walks of a person's life instead astrology covers almost all spheres of human life while making a prediction. For example, astrology also throws light on your probable love and romances. Your moon sign in conjunction with positions of Mars and Venus reflect about future of your love life. Seeing traits associated with your sun sign astrology also tries to know about your possible compatible relations in future.

Even now a good number of people globally seek the help of astrology in matchmaking. That is primarily done to know whether couples are compatible with each other. Your health, career and monetary gains and losses…well, nothing is beyond the reach of astrology to predict about.

But astrological predictions can't be relied upon to make decisions in some of the cases. However, these predictions by making you acquainted with future circumstances help you in facing adverse situations in a better way. But you must seek your astrological details including forecast from an astrologer who has earned credibility, otherwise, you may get fooled by deceitful statements by a person who hardly knows astrology. Psychic astrologers are best at making predictions who try to get future trends by doing your behavioral analysis along with your birth chart analysis.

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The "Swiss Army Knife" of ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential Oils - Photo  by   Mayra Corrêa e Castro 

Is There Anything Your Swiss Army Knife Can't-Do?

Much more than just a pocket knife, the Swiss Army knife has long been considered the ultimate preparedness tool coming with a can-opener, bottle-opener, screwdriver, corkscrew, tweezers, nail file, scissors, and toothpick. Some higher-end versions even come with a LED flashlight, flash drive, and more!

Just as a Swiss Army knife can come in handy in thousands of situations, therapeutic-quality lavender oil is probably the most versatile of all essential oils. Lavender essential oil, (lavandula angustifolia) has been studied extensively in both Western and Eastern societies and has been discovered to possess the following properties:

• Antiseptic,
• Antifungal,
• Analgesic,
• Antitumoral,
• Anticonvulsant,
• Vasodilating,
• Relaxant,
• Anti-inflammatory,
• Reduces blood fat/cholesterol,
• Combats excess sebum on skin,

Real, pure lavender oil has powerful healing properties for physical issues and emotional/mental issues alike. It is legendary for its ability to heal burns, cuts, scrapes, rashes, acne, and general skin conditions. Likewise, its powerful relaxing aroma penetrates into the limbic region of the brain where it is believed to enact its well-known influence on stress, tension, sleep issues, and even depression. Lavender is literally an essential element of any first-aid kit, a useful item to bring when spending time outdoors, a powerful addition to any household.

But not all lavender oil on the market is created equal.

Facts about Therapeutic-Grade Lavender vs. Cheap Lavender

• Real therapeutic-grade lavender essential oil (lavandula angustifolia) contains over 200 natural compounds, some of which scientists have not even been able to identify yet. The broad therapeutic effect of our lavender oil comes from its naturally diverse chemical composition.
• Many lavender oils on the market are made with cheaper lavender hybrids such as lavendin.
• The best lavender oil I am aware of is distilled from organically grown lavender on Young Living's farms in Mona, UT and Provence, France. It is steam-distilled at low temperatures to preserve the integrity of the essential oil. Nothing is added, and nothing is taken away.
• Not only are cheaper hybrids used, but many cheap lavender oils are constructed in a laboratory and cut with low-cost chemical compounds such as acetylated lavandin, synthetic linalool, linalyl acetate, Ho leaf fractions, and rosewood oil.
• 15 tons of fine lavender oil is produced annually in France.
• Somehow, 250 tons of "fine" lavender oil is exported annually from France.
• The moral of the story is make sure you get your essential oils from reputable sources. You truly do get what you pay for.

Still not sure about lavender? Check this out -

Top 10 Reasons to Have Therapeutic-Quality Lavender On Hand

10. Stop bleeding and cleanse wounds.

9. Calm down cranky kids (or cranky adults).

8. Great for headaches, bruises, and contusions.

7. If in doubt, try lavender!

6. It takes 170-250 lbs of lavender blossoms and plant material to make one lb of our lavender oil.

5. The bottle fits in your pocket or purse.

4. It won't expire.

3. Non-toxic, and actually helps the body to cleanse itself from toxins.

2. You get super-concentrated allergy meds, sleeping pills, wound disinfectant, PMS drugs, anti-anxiety drugs, burn treatment, sunscreen, and more in one convenient bottle.

1. Cost effective (replace all the above with just lavender in many cases!)

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Childhood Obesity and Type 2 DIABETES

Photo: Pixabay

When a child is diagnosed with diabetes it is commonly referred to as juvenile diabetes or type 1 diabetes.  This type of diabetes is not related to a child’s lifestyle, it is an autoimmune disease that results in the need for insulin injections for food to be turned into energy properly.  In recent years there has been an increased number of children that have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.  This is an alarming trend and one that can be mitigated because the link between children and type 2 diabetes is childhood obesity.

As it is fairly new that children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes there isn’t a lot of information or studies on it presently.  But what is known is that parents need to take action immediately.  Once a child has been diagnosed at an older age there isn’t much that can be done except to manage the disease.  But if a younger child is obese and makes healthy lifestyle changes that result in weight loss there is a chance that type 2 diabetes can be avoided.

Some of the early warning signs that your child may have diabetes include:

* A sudden increase in thirst that appears to never be satiated

* An increased need to urinate

* Dark patches on the skin – usually found in the folds of the skin, around the neck 

or around the eyes

As there are many other diseases and complications that can arise if your child is obese it is best to seek medical help for your child.  Between you and your healthcare professional, a plan can be made and put into place that will start your child on the road to a healthier weight and more active lifestyle.  Your child may be resistant at first but by involving them in the process and persistence the changes can be made.

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Herbal Cancer Treatment - ALOE VERA

Aloe Vera - Photo  by oliver.savage 

Aloe is indigenous to Africa but it is being cultivated all over the world. The best well known and common species of aloe is of course aloe vera, but actually there over 300 other species of aloe. Aloe Vera has been used for treatments and as a remedy since ancient times. Aloe is mostly safe to use for humans both topically and orally and is reported to be non-toxic even when injected in high doses.

Aloe has been studied extensively in Japan, Russia and also in Madagascar. There is a lot of evidence that aloe is useful as a non-specific immune stimulator and immune modulator. Not only is aloe a potential adjuvant therapy for cancer, it is also valuable for patients who immune functions have been compromised by mainstream therapies.

In studies carried out in 1980 and 1981 at the Pasteur Institute in Madagascar, the researchers found out that mice given a hypodermic injection of unrefined Aloe vahombe extract were all safe against infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae, Yersinia pestis, Candida albicans fungus and Plasmodium berghei parasites. In 1988 it was found that aloe inhibited the metabolism of arachidonic acid. One product of this acid suppresses the activity of immune cells that are part of the body's surveillance against cells of the cancer.

An evaluation of antimetastatic properties of aloe[ usefulness in potentiating the effectiveness of chemotherapy was carried out by two Russian researchers. They found out from their research that aloe treatment contributed to a reduction of the mass of the tumor, metastasis frequency and metastatic foci at different stages of tumor progress without affecting major tumor growth, using three types of experimental tumors in rats and mice.

S.Y. Peng in another animal study found that acemannan increased sarcomabearing mice survival. Acemannan, in both highly purified and enriched forms, was administered intraperitoneally to mice to which murine sarcoma cells had been subcutaneously implanted. The invasive, highly malignant and rapidly growing sarcoma grew in 100% of implanted control animals. This resulted in in mortality in 20 to 46 days. About 40% of animals treated with acemannan at the time of implantation of the tumor cell (1.5 x 10(6) cells) survived.

Over 350 non-toxic natural and alternative treatments that have helped thousands of people beat their cancer. Over 2,000 testimonials! Success rates for surgery, chemo and radiation revealed! Free information on financial and other help available. Download this set of 4 e-Books and Reports NOW. It could save your life.

http://naturalcancertreatmentsthatwork.blogspot.com/  - Article Directory: EzineArticles

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Choosing Natural ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Over Chemically Produced Medicine

Natural alternative medicines now are receiving a lot of build-up and hype and regular medicine are now receiving a lot of flak as well. This is brought upon by the many cases of side effects that might as well do more harm than good.  People are rediscovering the goodness of what is natural and chemical-free.

Knowing that these natural alternative medicines were used for centuries upon centuries already makes them more reliable than prescription drugs for many people. Also, the fact that the list of benefits hugely overrates the harm, which rarely happens, gives a great reason to give it at least a try. Nothing is lost and everything is to be gained.

But who's to say which is really best for us, regular or natural alternative medicines? Many or most of us generally rely on doctors to tell us what to do and which medicine to use. Well, this is the best choice, but seeking a second opinion may also be very recommendable especially if your doctor couldn't or is having a hard time curing you.

There are a lot of differences between regular prescription medicines and natural alternative medicines. But the main factor that drives people away is not only their price difference but also their effectiveness and the barrage of side effects. Natural alternative medicine has been proven and tested with age and time already.

Aside from the herbs and spices and teas, natural alternative medicine can be coupled with massages, mental exercises such as meditation, aromatherapies and so much more. Many regular medicines have come and gone but natural alternative medicines have lived on. The main reason for this is because we know that they work.

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What You Need to Know About MESOTHELIOMA

CXR demonstrating a mesothelioma - by James Heilman, MD
 Licensed via CC Wikimedia Commons.

Mesothelioma is one of the rarest forms of cancer with “only” about 2,000 cases reported in the United States. Still, it is perhaps the most deadly. Those unfortunate enough to have been diagnosed with the disease generally live 4 to 9 months after diagnosis. There is, at this time,  no “cure” for the disease---only treatment options that may extend the life and comfort of the victims of mesothelioma by a few short months.

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important that you seek out immediate medical and legal help. You may very well have a case against the industry that caused the illness. 

Those worker smost at risk of developing this deadly disease include, asbestos and talc miners, auto mechanics (working with breaks), those working with asbestos cement, demolition workers, shipyard and power plant workers. The only cause of mesothelioma is the inhalation of asbestos dust, so if you believe you’re working around asbestos, it is important you take the proper precautions now!  

If you have not yet developed mesothelioma, there are precautions you can take to greatly reduce your chances of developing this terminal disease. 

Fortunately, with the advent of the worldwide web, there is an abundance of information available on this subject. I encourage the reader to seek out mor information on this dealy disease

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A Primer on Medical ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture needle. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever had an uncontrollable urge to be pierced by a dozen needles? This is the image most people get when someone mentions the word “acupuncture”. It comes as no surprise that most view this technique with suspicion, even downright horror. The fact is, however, that this relatively painless ancient Chinese technique has helped relieve the symptoms of millions of people. Properly used, it can help in the management of many medical conditions including chronic pain and fatigue. 

How does needle puncture work?

Practitioners of Chinese traditional medicine believe in energy flows. This energy, called Qi, circulates around the body using pathways called meridians. Meridians run very close to the surface of the skin in certain areas and can be accessed by needles. Much like plumbing, these pipes can get blocked or go the wrong way, causing health problems. The insertion of needles at these points is aimed to help loosen blocks and normalize flow.

It sounds like a made-up explanation with no basis in reality, but there are numerous scientific studies which support the effects of acupuncture. Although the exact scientific basis is still unknown, recent theories seem to suggest the involvement of complicated neurochemical effects in the brain, nerve to spinal cord impulse modulation, and microscopic connective tissue changes.  

What risks and side effects are of concern?

The use of things not completely understood for the treatment of medical conditions is nothing new. Penicillin and aspirin were used for decades solely on the basis of their beneficial effects, without doctors knowing exactly how they worked. Results are what is truly important. However, it is equally important is to ensure that the technique is used safely.

Like other strategies used in treating health conditions, acupuncture may have some side effects. Medications have side effects and allergic reactions, surgeries have a risk of infection and complications. For needle puncture, there is a risk of injury, rare infections, minor bleeding, small bruises, and some dizziness.

You can minimize the possible side effects by choosing a licensed acupuncturist. Most countries either have government licensing in place or have professional organizations with very strict rules and regulations. 

How do treatments go?

An acupuncturist will do an initial evaluation of your medical history and your body’s current state. Multiple pressure points are palpated, and a regimen of treatment is formulated. Most courses involve a series of 10 to 20 treatment sessions, each lasting 30 to 90 minutes. Needles will be carefully placed at the required points and kept in place for some time. Most patients report a feeling of mild sensation at the site of the puncture, but no real pain.

Right after each acupuncture session, you will feel a bit tired and may need to rest. Some people feel an increase in their energy levels. The response to acupuncture is very individual. In some cases, there is immediate relief of symptoms. For some patients, the beneficial effects may only be noticed after undergoing a few sessions. Do not be alarmed and keep your acupuncturist updated on what you are feeling to ensure everything is going as expected.

You need never fear the thought of needles ever again. Acupuncture is a beneficial treatment with a long history of effectiveness. It is used to complement current medical therapy and should not replace currently existing medications or treatments.

The safe application of this once exclusively Chinese therapy can now be experienced by chronic disease sufferers worldwide.

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The Soothing Effects of ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture Points - Photo   by sushiphotos 

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. Commonly used to treat bodily pains, acupuncture actually has a wide range of uses that range from addictions to injuries, to disease prevention. If you are thinking about trying acupuncture, the following will give you a better idea of its many benefits.

Pain

Acupuncture is most commonly known to treat bodily pains such as muscular pains and arthritis. There are many types of arthritis, and each has a different acupuncture procedure. However, the healing effects may vary from person to person. Acupuncture for arthritis usually takes several sessions and takes a lot of cooperation your therapist for best results.

Other pain related ailments that can be cured by acupuncture are severe headaches and migraines, acute backaches, shoulder and neck aches, leg pains, trapped nerves, muscle related injuries, after surgery, carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries, menstrual pains, toothaches, abdominal pains, and rheumatic pains.

Depression

Acupuncture is widely recommended for symptoms of depression and anxiety such as irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, loss of interest in social activity and suicidal tendencies. Acupuncture is thought to relieve stress and improve the flow of energy that may be causing the depressive symptoms. Improvement in symptoms can be seen as early as the first session. Experts have found acupuncture to be a beneficial complement to other forms of depression therapy such as psychological counseling, and healthier than chemical alternatives such as anti-depressants.

Insomnia

Acupuncture has become a popular alternative to common remedies such as sleeping pills. It works at the nerve levels, relaxing and soothing your senses. Acupuncture is thought to be a safer route for insomnia because it brings back your natural sleeping cycle through natural means and not through chemicals, which can turn into an addiction. Using acupuncture for insomnia usually starts working after the very first session. The treatment is usually stretched out for a period of time until your body returns to its natural sleeping cycle.

Infertility

Studies show that acupuncture is a beneficial form of complementary therapy for women who are having undergoing treatments for fertility problem. Acupuncture is believed to relieve the anxiety of women undergoing fertility treatment. Also, acupuncture's success in aiding fertility is more pronounced in in-vitro fertilization. In addition, the rate of miscarriages has been found to be lower for women who do acupuncture.

Others

The following are other ailments that acupuncture has been known to remedy:

· Menopausal problems such as hot flushes, infertility, and premenstrual tension.
· Bladder or bowel problems, difficulty or pain in urination, and urinary infections.
· Digestive disorders including nausea, indigestion, heartburn, and diarrhea.
· Respiratory problems such as rhinitis, hay fever, prickly heat, rashes and ulcers, eczema, and some types of dermatitis and psoriasis.
· Conditions of the eyes and mouth such as cataracts, dry eyes, conjunctivitis, retinitis and toothache, and post extraction pains.
· Heat problems such as poor circulation, stroke recovery, and hypertension.
· Addictions such as smoking, drinking, or other harder drugs.

If you as suffering from any of the ailments mentioned above, acupuncture may just be the remedy for you. Acupuncture is harmless and is known to promote health and a sense of well-being. It is a healthy, chemical-free alternative to traditional forms of medical treatment.

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