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Rheumatoid Arthritis: What is It and How to Treat It
Ask the Doctor: Question: My mom has rheumatoid arthritis, what is it? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is when the immune system – which protects our bodies from bacteria and viruses – begins attacking its own tissues, and with RA, it specifically attacks joints. The result is fluid in the joints that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. Many people confuse RA with osteoarthritis but they differ; RA is more common and immune based whereas osteo arthritis is due to wear and tear of a joint. What are the symptoms? The symptoms and course of rheumatoid arthritis vary from person to person. Morning stiffness…
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Health: How to Deal with Everyday Stress
Ask the Doctor: Question: How can we deal with everyday stress? Life is stressful: from learning how to walk and talk, to understanding a changing body to paying bills. Most stress presents an opportunity for inner growth and to learn the how to take care of yourself in reaction to all the crazy highs and lows life brings. Below are a few ways to bring more (stress-less) bliss into your life. Be Aware This is the first step and will lay down to the foundation on understanding how you are reacting to stress. Take time to journal what triggers stress in your life: is it your morning routine, your boss,…
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Hawthorne for the Heart
The Hawthorne ( Crategeous oxyacantha or mongyna) is a sweet scented flower with snow-white blossoms; however, in the fall, red berries emerge. Hawthorne is well known as a heart herb for anyone needing to increase circulation, bring on more joy and love into their lives. History The Hawthorne plant has long been known as a sacred and protecting. In fact, for centuries, parents would place sprigs of Hawthorne around a baby’s cradle to protect against evil spirits and illnesses. Hawthorne tinctures, teas or syrups are also used to lift spirits and relieve sadness. In Greece, wedding guests would bring sprigs of Hawthorne to gesture happiness, prosperity (and fertility) to the…
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Botanical Medicines: 3 Essentials for Your Natural Pharmacy
Traditional botanical medicine is based on the use of plants and/or their extracts. It is also referred to as herbalism, medical herbology, phytotherapy, and herbal medicine. Probably the most well – known herbal medicine is echinacea. The first writings of echinacea were in the late 1800s and commonly used in the Native American population to treat anything from sore throats to coughs to toothaches. Below are three less commonly known; however, essentials for every natural pharmacy. 1. Licorice – Glycirriza glabra soothes the digestive system, nourishes the adrenal glands, and strengthens the immune system. History Many people think of licorice as a candy; however, its therapeutic herbal usage dates back…
