Alison Odey

Glandular fever is the common name for Epstein-Barr virus. It is one
of a group of viruses, which includes herpes simplex types 1 and 2, chicken pox (varicella zoster) and cytomegalovirus.
A common factor of these viruses is their ability to stay in the body as a latent
infection. The immune system will normally keep a latent infection under control, but if the body at any time, becomes tired, run down, overworked, over stressed, undernourished or the immune system is compromised in any way, the virus can again become active.
See pages on ‘Cold Sores’,
‘Genital herpes’ and ‘Cytomegalovirus’.

Treatment centres around optimising health and immunity in all aspects.
This means maintaining at all times a diet that is high is fresh wholesome, unprocessed foods.
Avoiding excessive stress and being sure to get enough rest and adequate sleep.

Exercise also needs to be undertaken, but not to the point that the body becomes overtired. Go carefully.

Vitamins and minerals are extremely important in the healing process.
Especially zinc, selenium and chromium. These can easily be obtained in colloidal minerals, take 5-15ml daily – long-term.
See page on  ‘Minerals -why we need to supplement’.

These should also be used at any other time that the body becomes tired or in any way unwell.

Lysine (an amino acid) is a must when the virus is active as it helps stop the virus replicating. It can be taken in relatively high doses initially then continued at 500mg daily to help prevent reoccurrence.

Extra vitamin B12, B6 and folic acid are also recommended. These will greatly improve energy and help the nervous system.

When energy remains very low it would be a good idea to use a little extra Iodine. Simply rubbing 1-2 drops of Iodine tincture onto the skin will supply enough for most people or alternatively a kelp tablet daily or any preparation that contains a small amount of Potassium Iodide.
See page on Vitamin B12

Initially, while still unwell, also take extra vitamin C, given as a time release tablet, Liposomal 1000mg+ or at 250 mg every few hours plus a herbal extract containing herbs that can help the immune system fight viral infection.

Herbs that work well in this respect are Echinacea, Phyllanthus, Andrographis, Astragalus, St John’s Wort, Golden Seal and also Liquorice. If necessary, other herbs can be added  to help support the immune system.  An herbal extract of this type needs to be taken over several months to ensure adequate recovery.

I also find that Quercetin can work extremely well as it greatly reduces glandular inflammation.

Up-dated October 2016

In any condition where you have a continual build-up of mucus in the body – which will cause ear infections (as the eustacian tubes are unable to drain adequately), as well as runny noses and chestiness – you firstly need to reduce the amount of mucus being produced, secondly boost the immune system. and thirdly clear the body of the mucus already clogging the system

Reducing mucus: Excess mucus is often caused by insufficient digestion of proteins, especially dairy proteins. Avoiding dairy proteins in the diet will help but improving the stomach’s ability to digest these foods gives a far better long term result.

To help do this, supplement each meal with two digestive enzyme capsules and greatly increase the amount of raw foods in the diet. Enzyme capsules can be emptied into a little water or directly into food.  Chewable types can also be used but be consistent and use them regularly.

Eat as much raw fresh food as possible. Fresh vegetable and fruit juices are also far better than commercial juices that have been heated (enzymes are destroyed by any heating process) and often have preservatives added.
Avoid foods such as ‘Milo’ (TM), ice cream, cheese and other heavy dairy foods and
also all added sugars. See page on ‘Enzymes – facts’.

Sugars will greatly increase the amount of inflammation present and also reduce the ability of the immune system to work adequately. As most refined foods contain sugar you need to watch the diet very closely.

To boost the immune system effectively: Most people need supplemented minerals as well as herbal immune stimulants such as Garlic or Echinacea daily throughout the year – not just during the winter.
The addition of Thyme, Oregano, Sage or Olive leaf will also help.
Also rye grass extract is brilliant for kids as it is easy to take and works extremely well in helping to boost an ailing immune system.
Use the ‘Contact us’ page if you need any of the herbs mentioned above.

Liquid Colloidal minerals are great and Spirulina works well also. If treating a child, try using Colloidal minerals mixed in juice first, but failing this try a chewable multivitamin that has Spirulina or Barley grass as a base. If these measures are used long term the
incidence of ear infections and runny noses and other mucus conditions should
quickly diminish.

To clear the body of mucus: In situations where Eustachian tubes and airways
are already clogged herbal remedies can be of great help. Herbs such Marshmallow
and/or Fenugreek, Elecampane, Licorice, Lobelia and/or Euphorbia and Horseradish
will all greatly help clear the passages and expel mucus.

The bioflavoniod Quercetin is also of great value in these situations. It has an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-histamine effect and in addition is wonderful in helping the body expel mucus.
Go to On-line shop for Quercetin

If you suspect an ear infection has already manifested, immediately start using herbal or homeopathic ear drops, plus ‘Vicks'(TM) below the ears and around the throat to help the Eustachian tubes to drain.

Onion poultices also work extremely well and are worth the smell!
See page on  ‘Onion Poultices’.

Increase the dosage of garlic and/or Echinacea when infection is present.

Onion poultices can be a wonderful (if a little odorous) way of treating
various ear complaints,  in particular ‘glue ear’. The warm onion will encourage
drainage as well as acting as an antibiotic.

To make an onion poultice:
– Either cut a large onion in half so that the central ‘rings’ can be taken
out, or roughly chop an onion so that it will make a soft ‘mush’.
– Heat the onion gently in a little water then wrap in a soft cloth.
– Check that it is not too hot as it is easy to burn young skin.
– Hold over the ear until cool.
– Repeat this as often as needed, the same onion can be used several times.

As well as having a warming, draining effect the anti-biotic components of
the onion will help reduce infection.

Every winter sore throats and the often accompanying colds and flus become a
problem for many people, especially those who have to work in crowded or air
conditioned suroundings.

Sore throats needn’t necessarily turn into a full blown cold or flu if you
treat it immediately that you notice the throat feeling uncomfortable and always
make and effort to keep the immune system as strong as possible.

One of the best and fastest methods I know of to treat a sore throat quickly,
is to obtain some Propolis extract (not the lozenges) and put 1-2 drops directly on the back of the throat 2-3 times daily. If you dislike the taste, follow it with a mouthful of water.
It is safe to swallow as it is also a very effective method of boosting the immune system. It may also be used dilutedas a gargle but often this is not direct enough to stop an infection in its tracks.
Propolis is an excellent antibiotic for any mouth/throat infection and especially for the gums as it tends to ‘stick’ and not wash off directly. However it does stain if dropped onto anything and can be very difficult to remove so use it carefully, it’s
worth the effort!
Contact us to order propolis extract.

Recently oral throat sprays have come on the market and these are proving an
excellent method of reducing and even eliminating the pain of sore throats, as
well as being antibacterial.
Herbal throat sprays that contain herbs such as Echinacea and Sage with Propolis and Colloidal Silver sprays are both effective. Both can be used as soon as a problem is detected and neither stain.

Another method that is convenient to use at short notice is to rub the entire throat area very thoroughly with ‘Tiger Balm’ {TM} or any other heat rub.
Rub around and below the ears also as this can help the Eustachian tubes to drain and help prevent ‘glue ear’.
Be careful with children, some heat rubs are too strong for delicate skin, a
mild rub such as ‘Vicks’ is often better or blend your heat rub with a little plain oil first.

An older, but still very effective method of treating a sore throat is to make a
lemon and honey drink. Use the rind plus the juice of a lemon, add boiling water and 1tsp of honey (Manuka if you have it), then a small amount (but as much as you can handle) of cayenne pepper.
Mix all together and allow to cool. Sipping on this brew can make a world of difference to the sore throat as well as to any annoying cough.

Up-dated Jan 2017

‘Glue ear’ (chronic otitis media) refers to a constant swelling of the middle ear.
It is often present prior to ear infection becoming apparent, when the Eustachian tube is obstructed with fluid.
Abnormal Eustashian tube function is the underlying cause in virtually all cases of otitis media, as it is the eustachian tube that regulates gas pressure in the middle ear, protects the middle ear from nose and throat secretions and bacteria and clears fluids.
Swallowing should cause active opening of the Eustachian tube, however in small children the Eustachian tube is smaller and nearer to the horizontal than in adults and does not always clear effectively.
This will cause an uncomfortable pressure build up. However often only a mild ear
ache will be noticeable. Take notice of a child holding or pulling at their ears or not appearing to hear normally.

To treat glue ear effectively you must do three things:
1. Firstly in the acute phase encourage the Eustachian tubes to drain.
2. Treat any infection present.
3. Take steps to prevent further mucus build-up.

Applying onion poultices directly to the ear is an excellent way of encouraging the Eustachian tubes to drain as well as acting as an antibiotic.
See page on ‘Onion Poultices’.

Rubbing ‘Tiger Balm’ or ‘Vicks’ or similar heat rubs in front of the ear and over the tonsillar glands is also excellent, and acts in a similar manner.

Herbal ear drops containing antimicrobial herbs such as Echinacea, Sage, Calendula, Golden Seal and Lavender (usually mixed with a carrier oil) are very effective and can also be used as preventatives or to help clear up an existing infection.

Colloidal Silver can also be effective when ear canal infection is present.

To prevent the Eustachian tubes repeatedly becoming blocked (which then leads to infection) you must look for the cause.
The role of allergy as a cause of chronic otitis media is firmly established. This can be to
foods or to inhalants as allergic reaction causes swelling which then blocks the
Eustachian tube.

Often you have to look to the diet. Diets too high in dairy protein especially, are going to cause mucus build up.
See page on ‘Mucus – excess’.

A low level of enzymes in the stomach is going to have the same effect due to insufficient digestion of proteins.   To correct these problems reduce dairy protein intake, especially cheese, ‘Milo’, ice cream etc. and increase raw foods.
Food enzymes: i.e. kiwifruit or papaya or a child’s chewable enzyme tablet used before meals will help hugely.  Some enzyme formulas are also available in capsule which for children, can be opened up and sprinkled onto food.
Adults will generally need to take one capsule prior to each meal.
See page on ‘Enzymes – facts’.
The formation of mucus will be greatly reduced if you take these measures.

To further reduce the incidence of infection (anywhere in the body), increase mineral levels. This needs to be all minerals not just single minerals such as silver or zinc.   Colloidal minerals work well (one teaspoon daily for a child).  Note that these already contain colloidal silver and you do not need to add extra!  Keep that for external use only.  See pages on ‘Minerals – facts’ and ‘Minerals – why we need to supplement’.

The daily use of immune boosting herbals such as Echinacea or Propolis will help in the mean time as the body rids itself of excess muco-proteins.

If possible a daily dose of a product containing Quercetin will help. Quercetin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and also reduces histamine release which overall means that it greatly helps prevent irritation of mucus membranes and reduces swelling. it also supports the immune system.

A young child with continual tonsillar problems has usually also got a problem with excessive mucus and congestion. This often indicates a problem with inadequate digestion of proteins – hence the excessive mucus production. This needs to be addressed.

First, remove all excess dairy proteins from the diet, i.e. milk, cheese, ice cream and also supplement with food enzymes to help improve the digestion.
Increase the amount of raw foods in the diet and use fresh juices if possible.
Eliminate added sugars, they only increase inflammatory symptoms.
See page on ‘Glue Ear’.

Secondly, aim to improve the immune status. Herbal remedies work very well in
cases of tonsillitis, especially if antibacterial herbs such as Sage and Thyme are used along with a little (drop wise) added Poke root. See a herbalist to have these blended in
appropriate doses. Use over several months, not just a few weeks – however, the
Pokeroot is usually used on its own and stopped once the condition has cleared.

Mineral levels also need to be increased, especially zinc.
See page ‘Minerals – Why we need to supplement’.

Recently oral herbal throat sprays have come on the market and these are proving an excellent method of reducing and even eliminating the pain of sore throats, as
well as being antibacterial.
However one of the best throat infection preventatives that I have come across is undiluted Propolis extract. One or two drops of this put directly onto the back of the throat (followed by a mouthful of water)works wondered.
Contact Us if you want some of this wonderful stuff.

Another excellent method of reducing severe throat pain and calming a persistent cough is to make a fresh lemon drink by cutting a few slices of lemon (complete
with rind), placing in a mug with 1/2 tsp of honey (Manuka if possible)
and a little cayenne pepper. Pour over boiling water and sip. Is equally
effective either hot or cold. If making this for a child be sure to only use a very little cayenne, however it is this ingredient that acts an analgesic, so even a little works well.

It is also a good idea to supplement with vitamin A in the form of fish oils.
1 -2 cod-liver oil capsules daily or Maltexo(TM) with cod liver oil added.

Externally, a mild heat rub applied to the throat/neck area also greatly reduce tonsillar and throat pain. Be sure to use just a mild rub on children, as stronger ones irritate the skin.
See page on ‘Throat Infections’.

I recently came across some very interesting notes on Vitamin D. I have always
felt that most people living in New Zealand get quite adequate Vitamin D simply
because most of us live much of our lives outside in the sun, however in modern times this of course, is now not always the case.

The form of Vitamin D produced in the body is Cholecalciferol (D3).
It is produced as a result of the conversion of a cholesterol-based precursor in the sebaceous glands of the skin when the skin is exposed to sunlight.

Vitamin D is necessary to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth, cardiovascular, renal and prostate health, mood as well as overall immune function.
In recent years it has become known that Vitamin D has an important role in autoimmune disorders and research is continuing in this field.

It prevents rickets in children, Osteomalacia (softening of the bones), Hypocalcaemic (low calcium),  tetany and cramping in adults.

Vitamin D also has a role in maintaining muscle strength and possibly because of this factor supplementation can be associated with the reduction of falls in the elderly.

Recent research has suggested that during the summer months, only 10-15% of unprotected exposure to sunlight to 15% of the body was needed to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels.
This was outside the hours 10am to 3pm so there is no need to expose ourselves to the sun during ‘high burn times’. During the rest of the year up to an hour was needed.
This is generally not hard to obtain for most people but in the winter it is important to try and make the best use of those sometimes rare bright sunny days.

The exceptions to this of course are certain people in the community who are unable to obtain sufficient sun exposure.These can be:
– Elderly people with limited mobility living in residential homes.
– People who avoid sunlight by completely ‘covering up’.
– People excessively using sunscreens or even just using them on a regular basis.
– Young children living predominantly inside or in very dull sunlight conditions.
– Anyone who may have limited exposure due to work hours or for any other reason.
– Those with Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease or cystic fibrosis due to poor lipid digestion and absorption.
– Overweight individuals also have a tendency to have low Vitamin D levels.

Apart from sunlight exposure Vitamin D can also be obtained from certain foods.
These foods include oily fish such as sardines and mackerel, beef, liver, butter, cheese and eggs.
This is in the form of D3 (cholecalciferol) which is identical to the form produced in the body. It is important therefore to include these foods in the diet and more so if your
sun exposure is limited.

If you suspect that both dietary intake AND sunlight exposure are too low then you may have to supplement with Vitamin D.
It is often supplemented where there are signs of weakening bones in older people or it a blood test shows Vitamin D levels to be low.
Research shows that Vitamin D levels should ideally be higher than 100 nmol/L.

This can be done by supplementing with cod liver or halibut oil or Vitamin D capsules of 1000IU or better still eat more fresh fish!
Some research says that 2000IU is accepted amount needed daily to prevent osteoporosis.
For children the recommended intake is 200IU daily.

Up-dated Oct 2014

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Myalgic Encephalopathy or ME) is marked by
long-standing, severe and disabling fatigue, usually lasting at least six months and aggravated by minimal exertion.

There is often accompanying sleep dysfunction, muscle or joint pain,
headache or lack of concentration and/or confusion. There can also be
food allergies and/or intolerance and chemical sensitivities.
Symptoms are often similar to those found in fibromyalgia, depression, thyroid deficiency and Irritable Bowel syndrome and can be difficult to define with certainty.

Studies suggest that CFS may be due to alterations in immune function, however total consensus on a pattern of immunological dysfunction has not yet been reached.
My own feeling on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is that it comes about as the result of viral infection that the body has been unable to deal with adequately as many viruses can cause persistant or latent viral infection.

It has been suggested that Epstein Barr virus can trigger CFS, but inadequate evidence exists to point the finger at any one virus or retrovirus as a causative factor although approximately 50% of chronic fatigue patients have one or more of the following viruses in their history: Epstein Barr, Herpes virus 6, Cytomegalo virus, Ross river fever, Cox-Sackie B, Polio plus a few others.

Reducing all causes of inflammation is paramount and this of course includes inflammation from viral and bacterial causes but also we need to look at inflammation caused by oxidative stress (excess free radicals) and inflammation caused by muscular and spinal tension.
Excess oxidative stress can damage the mitrochrondria cells (the body’s power cells) and if magnesium is deficient to the point that the muscles are excessively tense then the blood flow is reduced (the muscles will feel cold and painful).

Prolonged stress will aggravate the condition and can play a part in the immune status dropping to the point that it cannot overcome a virus.

The immune system should, if working effectively, be able to over-come infection, of bacterial origin and keep infection of viral origin under control.
However, if the body becomes tired, run down, overworked, over stressed,
undernourished or the immune system is compromised in any way, a virus can again
become active.
I have seen excellent results in many people I have treated who have been told they have
ME, once the immune system is strengthened.

Treatment centres on optimising health and immunity in all aspects, but in particular improving the body’s ability to overcome and resist viral infection.
Optimising other areas of health means maintaining at all times a diet that is high in fresh wholesome, unprocessed foods (and if candida is suspected, avoid all sugars), avoiding excessive stress and being sure to get enough rest and adequate sleep.

Exercise also needs to be undertaken, but not to the point that the body becomes overtired. Go carefully.

Vitamins and minerals are extremely important in the healing process.
Take extra Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium and Chromium. These can easily be obtained along with all other necessary minerals and trace elements in Colloidal minerals which should be taken long-term.
However in some cases it may be necessary to increase magnesium if muscular tension is severe. Magnesium Glycinate works better than some other varieties of magnesium and can greatly reduce the tenderness of the muscles.
See pages on ‘Minerals – facts’ and ‘Minerals – why we need to supplement’.

This is just a snipet of what you need to know, so if you want to know more about this subject or have a personal question of your own, then please email me for a personal consultation, as all natural treatments are best if prescribed individually.
Cost and contact address are on the Contact page.
Alternatively, if possible. – make an appointment

I am often asked my view point about ‘detoxing’ and the pros and
cons…..which is as follows.
When considering aiding the body in its detoxification process in my opinion the very first things to consider are:

Adequate exercise: Physical activity is essential to enable the lymphatic system (which is the system in our body that carries many toxins and wastes) to work as it relies on the big muscles of the arms and legs to act as a pump.

Massage: can be an important and effective adjunct to an exercise regime. It definitely helps the body’s detoxifying processes.

Adequate fresh fruit and vegetables: These are your first source of naturally obtained vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Make sure you eat heaps!!!

Water intake: Be sure to drink adequate water, especially in hot weather.

Minimise contact with environmental toxins: These further pollute the body. Also be careful with house hold cleaners etc.

The bowel: If your bowel is not healthy then your detoxification processes
will be greatly impaired. The bowel should move easily (NOT loosely) on a daily
basis, should not be bloated, gassy or tender in any way. You can find several
articles on this subject on the web site.

Avoid negative emotions and stresses: These also can be ‘toxic’ to the body, just take note of how the bowel reacts to stress. You may find it slows down and you become
constipated, or the reverse, it may become very loose during stressful times.

After these come other considerations that may have to be supplemented.
Mineral levels: If these are inadequate the body’s detoxification processes as well as its ability to heal will be compromised. Using colloidal minerals on a regular basis will overcome this possibility.
See pages on ‘Minerals – facts’ and ‘Minerals – why we need to supplement’.

Enzymes:  An enzyme deficiency must be carefully considered as a possible precursor of bodily imbalance, toxicity and consequent disease symptoms.
See page on Enzymes – facts.

Probiotics and/or Prebiotics: These can be necessary if the bowel is not working
efficiently. There are now very specific probiotics available for specific conditions.
See page on Probiotics.

Extra antioxidants: These are also essential in helping the body detoxify and can often be inadequate especially in diets that lack fresh green vegetables and berry
fruits.
Glutathione plays a key role in detoxification, having the ability to bind to heavy metals and other toxins through its sulphur molecules, thereby providing the means for the body to eliminate these toxins.
Having a deficiency of glutathione is a precursor for one’s inability to effectively excrete mercury, aluminium, and pesticides from the body.
See page on Glutathione.

Liver ‘tonics’: These usually contain herbs such as St. Mary’s Thistle and Dandelion that are known to enhance liver detoxification and may also contain extra nutrients aimed at promoting detoxification.

One of these added nutrients is often Taurine an amino acid which for many years was considered a nonessential nutrient. However over recent years the fact that it does play a
very important role has become clearer.

Taurine is now known to play a major role in the brain and other excitable tissue such as the heart and also plays a major role in detoxification.
The dietary source of taurine is synthesis from methionine and cysteine with magnesium, B6 and B5 as co-factors.
Taurine may become deficient in the body due to lack of animal protein (the source of methionine and cysteine), from malabsorption or from deficiency of
vitamins/minerals needed for its synthesis.
Abnormally low taurine levels are also a common feature found in chemically sensitive people, as taurine together with glycine are the major amino acids associated with the removal of toxic chemicals from the body.
Sensitivities to environmental chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, alcohols, petroleum solvents and ammonia may result where taurine is deficient.

It is hugely important to supplement MINERALS and get the bowel working adequately PRIOR to using liver tonics!!!!
If this isn’t the case then toxins removed from the liver will simply be reabsorbed into the blood stream from the bowel and you can become very ill. HENCE the unpleasant ‘healing crisis’ that many people experience.

I have some wonderful liver tonics in stock for those that need them or alternatively can
make herbal blends to your specific requirements.

Hope that answers some questions for you all.

Up-dated Jan 2017

While I am not an advocate of specific ‘diets’ I do strongly advocate the importance of ‘healthy eating’.  Alot of people don’t think about their food any further than what it tastes and feels like in their mouth. What happens after that is unimportant – they can’t taste it or feel it.
BUT if you put sweet/sticky food into your mouth it is exactly that in your body. Your body will become sticky and fatty.
Obesity, pimply skin, diabetes, inflamed joints, gassy bloated stomach, bowel problems etc, etc, etc…..the list goes on, will all stem from what you have put in your mouth.

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT.

To eat a healthy diet is not hard. The principles are quite simple and are as follows:

– Do NOT BUY unhealthy foods – if white bread, biscuits, sweets, soft drinks, sweetened cereals, ice cream, etc are not in the pantry then they are not there to eat! Instead buy more fresh fruit and vegetables, grain breads, whole grain cereals, nuts & seeds.
You will find that it doesn’t take long for the family’s tastes to change.

– Buy organic foods where ever possible. If you cannot obtain or afford organic foods then buy as fresh as possible.
Better still grow your food yourself. Most NZ gardens have sufficient space for a small garden. If you are in an apartment then you can still manage fresh herbs grown in a pot!
Alternatively, make use of your local ‘farmers markets’.
Recent research has shown that there are certain phytochemicals found in organic foods that increase their resistance to pests and infections. These are not found in such high amounts in in-organic foods. So by eating organically you are actually helping to strengthen your body’s immune system

– Eat moderate amounts of all food components. Never eat excessively! The guide lines here are approximate but could be helpful.
Per meal a moderate amount of protein would mean the amount you can fit easily on the palm of your hand. That doesn’t mean a large steak that covers the entire hand!

Protein rich foods are:
Fish – such as salmon, tuna, sardines, herrings and other seafoods such as squid, prawns, mussels, pipis, clams and oysters.
Poultry – such as chicken, turkey and duck as well as eggs.
Red meat – beef, lamb and pork.
Soy foods – such as tofu and tempeh.
Avoid processed meats as they usually contain preservatives and other additives

A moderate amount of low GI carbohydrates (made up of vegetables such as asparagus, brassicas, beans, carrots, spinach, celery cucumber, leeks, onions, mushrooms, peas, zucchini etc) would be about three handfuls or two  to three cups.
Preferably these vegetables should be eaten raw so as to conserve all the vitamins and minerals they contain. However in winter in a colder climate this can be difficult and the body naturally looks for warmer foods. So make soups, stews and casseroles from your vegetables.
Ideally try to add three to four cups of salad vegetables to your diet daily.

A moderate amount of high GI carbohydrates such as wholegrain bread or crisp breads would be two slices per day. Cooked beans, lentils, noodles, rice you could allow about 1/3 of a cup. Brown rice, sweet potato (kumera) or pasta then allow slightly extra, say ½ a cup. These may not sound alot but when combined with cups or more of low GI foods then it becomes plenty.
When using low GI carbohydrates such as combined in a high protein muesli then usually about a half cup would be sufficient per meal.

Some time during the day include a small handful or about a ¼ cup of fresh nuts and/or seeds.
These are a great snack idea and keep away the ‘munchies’.
They also help supply ‘healthy’ oils that your body needs. Oily fish will supply the rest.
Recommended nuts & seeds are: almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, macadamia nuts, brazil nuts, pine nuts, coconuts and sunflower, pumpkin, sesame and flaxseeds.

These amounts you should find are quite adequate as they metabolise slowly and you don’t feel hungry.

– Learn to make your own food products such as yoghurt, bread, breakfast cereal  muffins, fruit drinks and smoothies.
Click here for high protein muesli recipe.

– To maintain or lose weight, it is useful to realise the importance of maintaining a relatively high protein level in your diet.

This can be achieved by using any of the protein foods listed above as long as they are incorporated in each meal. OR if you have trouble finding ‘time’ to cook etc then a high protein supplement can be very useful. There are many of these available, some with extra minerals and vitamins added and others are relatively simple products and often less expensive.

– If you like COFFEE. Then I feel that one cup a day is fine. But, make sure it is an ORGANIC plunger or filter coffee. Never drink instant.

– If you are a ‘chocoholic’ then make sure the chocolate you eat is as ‘dark’ as possible, preferably organic and limit your intake to 3-4 squares!!

Bronchiectasis is an irreversible widening (chronic dilation) of the bronchi and bronchioles, resulting from damage to the airway wall.

There is often secondary infection, usually involving the lower lobes of the lung.

The cause is usually repeated respiratory infections, such as chronic sinusitis,
allergies, pneumonia, influenza, whooping cough etc, which can directly injure the airway wall or can lead to injury by interfering with normal airway defences, but it can at times be attributed to a congenital malformation of the alveoli, airway obstruction by an inhaled object, a lung tumour or inhaling toxic substances such as toxic fumes, gases, smoke or toxic dust.

Part of the airway defences are tiny cilia on the cells that line the airways that move
the thin liquid layer of mucus that normally coats the air passages.
This mucusallows any potentially harmful particles or bacteria to be moved up to the
throat and expelled.
When the airway becomes chronically damaged and inflamed the bronchial walls become less elastic, wider and flabby, the cells with cilia can be destroyed, and mucus secretions increase. This mucus accumulates as the cilia can no longer move the mucus, so becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

Any treatment will be directed towards removing infection, decreasing the build
up of mucus and inflammation and relieving airway obstruction.

Fresh air, sunshine, good diet and plenty of rest are all essential. I have seen good improvement in people who shift to warmer climates for the winter, hence avoiding
the cold and damp of our winter and living a more relaxed life style!

In others I have seen improvement when they opted to take immune enhancing and respiratory herbs on a continual basis.

Herbs that soothe the respiratory tract, herbs that can help expectorate mucus, herbs that have immune enhancing effects can often be combined to make extremely effective herbal blends.

Some natural remedies can also be effective anti-inflammatories.

In some cases the use of food enzymes have been known to help as they will help avoid excess build up of mucus due to poor protein digestion if this was a contributing factor.
See page on Enzymes – facts.

Treatment would have to be ongoing however as prognosis depends on how well the condition is controlled.

This is just a snipet of what you need to know, so if you want to know more about this subject or have a personal question of your own, then please email me for a personal consultation, as all natural treatments are best if prescribed individually.
Cost and contact address are on the Contact page.
Alternatively, if possible. – make an appointment

Osteoporosis is a multi-factorial skeletal disorder of progressive bone mass loss, demineralisation and frequent fractures, which accelerates with menopause.
Mature bone matrix is a complex highly mineralised structural framework, composed primarily of collagen and containing a small number of non collagenous proteins and glycoproteins.

The bone loss during the first decade following menopause is predominantly at the expense of the trabecular bone (the inner layer with a spongy honey-comb
texture – 50% loss) whereas only 5% of the cortical bone (the dense compact part) is lost.
Osteoporosis is considered to be present when bone density is a T-score of -2.5 or lower.
Osteopenia is a reduction in bone density with a T-score between -1.0 and -2.5.

Osteoporosis is a ‘silent’ disease, often not noticed until a fracture occurs, and this often the result of a very simple movement. Prior to a fracture occuring the only signs of
a problem may only be a loss of height and/or kyphosis.

Factors that can affect bone density are:
–  smoking and drinking alcohol. Smokers are more likely to suffer osteoporosis than non smokers and excessive alcohol (over the ‘moderation’ level of 14 units weekly) can also speed up bone loss.

– Caffeine, also has a detrimental affect. One study concluded that just 4 cups of coffee daily was sufficient to cause significant loss of bone density.

– Diet. Bone, like any living tissue, is constantly regenerating and will do so adequately if the blood supplies adequate nutrients. Often the modern diet does not allow this.
To help maintain bone density there are a number of factors to be aware of:

Minerals.
It is important to make an effort to keep all mineral levels optimum (not just calcium). The essentiality of minerals such as  zinc, manganese, magnesium and copper has been known for a long time.

Zinc is needed for normal bone formation and is a co-factor for Vitamin D which is essential for the proper absorption of calcium.

Adequate Vitamin D can be obtained simply by being out side for part of a day but may need to be supplemented if a person is completely house bound.
See page on Vitamin D.

Manganese is needed for bone mineralization and making bone and cartilage connective tissue.

Magnesium is particularly important, since magnesium regulates calcium transport. Supplementation with magnesium has been shown to significantly increase the mean bone density and to help prevent bone fractures.

Boron is critical as it is necessary for the utilization of calcium and vitamin D and to deconjugate estrone into 17-beta-estrodiol which helps prevent osteoporosis as well as many menopausal symptoms.

Copper deficiency can result in reduced bone mineral content and bone strength.

Calcium is not as common as we are led to believe. Calcium can be obtained from many food sources, not just dairy products. Foods such as the following contain good levels: Sea foods, seaweeds, kelp, sesame seeds, tahini, almonds, brazil and hazel nut,watercress, fresh greens, parsley, figs, black treacle,tofu, goats and sheep milk, chick peas, soy and kidney beans.
Calcium supplements increase the risk of kidney stones and can interfer with iron and zinc absorption.
However, conventional medicine persists in supplementing with calcium only or at best
with added Vitamin D added, even though there is little evidence that it is effective in preventing osteoporosis the elderly except in those that have a very low calcium intake.

A study designed to measure the difference between this and  the addition of trace elements on the bone density of post menopausal women showed a clear improvement in the group that were given calcium plus trace elements but not in the group given calcium only.
Other studies have shown that calcium supplementations of 660-3000mg daily had no significant effect on trabecular bone loss in post menopausal women and actually caused hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria in many of them.

A more effective method is to use Colloidal minerals that contain all
minerals and all trace elements.
See page on  ‘Minerals – facts’ and   ‘Minerals – why we need to supplement’.

Hormones.
Conventional treatment of oestrogen, with or without supplemental calcium and vitamin D, tends to delay bone mass loss but not reverse it.
Treatment with oestrogen has favourable and unfavourable effects.
On the plus side, apart from delaying bone loss, oestrogen may also decrease the
risk of cardiovascular disease, reduce/eliminate menopausal hot flushes, sweating, vaginal dryness etc.
On the negative side it may affect liver metabolism, increase the risk of blood clots, increases the risk of uterine cancer (if not used in conjunction with progesterone) and may increase the risk of breast cancer. Research is continuing.

Treatment with transdermal progesterone has resulted in progressive increases
in bone mineral density and definite clinical improvement in pain relief, height
stability, increased physical activity and fracture prevention.
See page on  ‘ Menopause – Symptoms and treatment’

I have seen very satisying results when women have taken ‘hormonal herbs’ (often Black Cohosh) in conjuction with Colloidal minerals over a period of 12-18 months. Bone density tests definitely slowly improve.

Calcitonin and para-thyroid hormone are also possible factors in calcium loss. Both are hormones produced by the thyroid, so it makes a lot of sense to make sure that the thyroid is functioning adequately. In many post menopausal women this is not the case and in many the addition of a little extra Iodine to the diet can make a huge difference.

Vitamin C is also essential for healthy bones and skin. All fresh fruits will supply Vitamin C, just make sure your daily intake is sufficient.

Overall diet can also make a considerable difference. There have been studies that show that women that have eaten a vegetarian diet for a good part of their life tend to lose a smaller proportion of bone mass than do women that have eaten a carnivorous diet.

Exercise is important.
Studies show that weight bearing exercise helps prevent osteoporosis in load-bearing bones and that any type of exercise that maintains fitness will help prevent fractures through development of musculature.
Weight bearing exercise however must be maintained in order for it to be effective, which can often be difficult for some elderly people.

Yoga is often a good choice for older people as it is a strong but gentle form of exercise.

Vibrational plates can also be used to good effect but I feel need to be of a specific vibration.

Boils are caused by the deep portion of the hair follicle becoming infected with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
Staphylococcus aureus infection will be more likely when the immune system is suppressed or when nutrition is poor.
Sufficient intake of Zinc is particularly important if re-infection is to be prevented. This can be obtained by taking 15 – 30mls of Colloidal
minerals daily which will increase all mineral levels and generally supplies adequate Zinc although in some instances it is necessary to add extra Zinc in the form of a tablet or Zinc liquid.
See page on ‘Zinc’.

Supplementing with vitamins A, C, E and B complex will also improve overall
health, vitamin A being specifically important in the treatment of boils.
Vitamin A can be found in any fish oil but particularly in halibut or cod liver oil.

The action of the herb Golden Seal is to act as an anti-microbial so therefore Golden Seal (Hydrastis Canadensis) can be an excellent herb with which to treat any Staphylococcus aureus infection.
It can be taken internally, mixed with other blood cleansing herbs, which is best if
the boils are persistently recurring or applied directly to the boil in order to speed external healing. Hot compresses can be used to help relieve pain and promote healing.

Sometimes boils will appear in areas where the circulation is poor. This could include the body as a whole or it may just be where a vein or artery has been damaged at some time.
In this case the circulation needs to be greatly improved. Supplementing with flaxseed oil at about 1tbsp daily gets good results. At times extra supplementation with a herb such as
Horsechestnut may be needed to further improve venous integrity.

It is important to make sure that the areas concerned are kept hygienically
clean. Often washing under the shower with liquid soaps is not sufficient to
remove excess Staphylococcus aureus and better results are obtained by a through
scrub with an oil based soap.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism (control
the growth and activity level of many tissues in the body), that is everything
from the rate at which your heart beats to how quickly you burn calories.

The best known thyroid hormone is called ‘thyroxine’ which contains four iodine
atoms (T4). This is largely converted to a more active hormone containing three
iodine atoms (T3).
If your thyroid does not produce enough hormones or too much of one to the detriment of the other then it can create an imbalance in your body, known as hypothyroidism.

It is a condition at times not very well managed by conventional medicine and is often confusing for many people who have all or some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism but whose blood tests come back as ‘normal’.
In other words the condition can be present but at sub-clinical levels.
‘Sub-clinical; hypothyroidism is a condition whereby although thyroid function is not
pathologically impaired, thyroid hormone production and/or metabolism is not
optimal’.

A more sensitive test is to measure the pituitary hormone which stimulates the thyroid gland (TSH). This hormone becomes elevated as soon as thyroid hormone levels start to fall.

In New Zealand hypothyroidism can be due to low levels of Iodine in the soils and also to low levels of Selenium. Selenium forms part of the enzyme responsible for the conversion of T4 to T3 and also protects the thyroid from excessive iodide exposure.

Hypothyroid may also come about as a result of viral infection, so where chronic lethargy accompanies an illness it may be a good idea to check for low thyroid function.

Hypothyroidism can also occur where there has been/is an autoimmune reaction within the thyroid causing the thyroid to produce antibodies against its own tissues.
This may be a result of previous treatments such as surgery or radiotherapy, or may as in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, be an autoimmune response of unknown aetiology.

Hypothyroidism tends to affect mainly women over the age of 40, but can also affect men.

Symptoms can include:
– (if severe) an enlargement of the thyroid gland – known as a goitre – as the cells of the thyroid enlarge  while trying to ‘trap’ as many iodide atoms as possible.
– Excessive fatigue, particularly in the afternoon.
– Weight gain.
– Eyes can be gritty, burning, itchy with blurred vision and puffy eyelids.
– Skin can become dry, rough, scaly and sometimes itchy in places.
– Sex drive can be non existent or poor.
– Hair can become course, brittle, fall out excessively or grow very slowly.
– The eyebrows may thin excessively.
– Over sensitivity to cold.
– Decreased perspiration even during heavy exercise or hot weather.
– Constipation that is resistant to extra magnesium dosage.
– Difficulty losing weight despite rigid adherence to diet.
– The voice can sound hoarse.
– Also possible cognitive deficiency.
– Lipid profiles may be elevated, including LDL cholesterol.

Because blood tests can prove to be unreliable in diagnosing hypothyroidism
it is a good idea to check your ‘basal body temperature’. Reduced thyroid function manifests as a drop in body temperature to below the normal of 36.7 C
(98.6 F).
Check your temperature before you get out of bed, and do this daily for a month. Keep a daily record. Also check several times during the day every so often. It your temperature is 36.1 C or less for three to five consecutive days, you could possibly conclude that the thyroid function is compromised.
However low body temperature can also indicate adrenal fatigue or exhaustion so this
method needs to be used in conjunction with other indications.
Hair analysis can help as it can determine Selenium, Iodine, Iron and Zinc levels.

I have found that natural treatments can often work extremely well in helping to correct under active thyroids. Contact us, or Ask Alison

Up-dated October 2014

Wouldn’t we all like to sleep like a baby! However a large portion of our population suffer from poor sleep and sleep deficit. There can be many reasons for this, but the outcome in all situations is that we do not function at our optimum potential.

Which is sad, because we could all enjoy life so much more and achieve so much more.
Also, not only does sleep deprivation mean that we don’t enjoy life to the full it also means that our overall health is compromised.

Normal sleep consists of various stages through which the sleeper progresses from wakefulness to deepest sleep and back again to light sleep.
On reaching light sleep however the sleeper should not wake up but instead enter a further stage of sleep called ‘Rapid Eye Movement’ (REM) sleep.

It is during REM sleep that most dreaming takes place. The entire cycle takes about 90 minutes and is repeated during the night 6-8 times.
The presise function of REM sleep is unclear but there is indirect evidence that it helps
maintain the responsiveness of the brain and aids the body in coping with the load of stimulation recieved during waking hours.

If deprived of REM sleep the body automatically compensates for the loss at the next opportunity, the sleeper spending twice as much time in this stage as he/she normally would – this is called REM rebound.
When sedatives or alcohol are used to try and aid sleep then the REM stage is decreased and sleep becomes unrefreshing.
Similarly when the sleeper is disturbed for other reasons such as stress, pain, bladder
irritability or children waking.

I have found over the years that among the many ‘sleep’ remedies that are available there are some that function so much better than others.
One of these is Adenosine, which is a natural hormone that your brain manufactures in order to put the brain into an ‘Alpha’ state in readiness for sleep.
The brain calms down and all the ‘busyness’ clears away and the body rests.

Some researchers think that Adenosine (a neurochemical) accumulates in the brain during awake hours and at a certain threshold adenosine receptors are triggered and initiate a slowing of brain activity that leads to sleep.
Caffeine blocks these receptors and prevents the sleep signal from being transmitted. So
be warned coffee drinkers!

Adenosine is not however a muscle relaxant and does not work if the body is tense for any reason (for example, if there is spinal pain or misalignment or stress within the life style.)
In these situations you need to either have the spine checked and rebalanced so that the body can relax or failing this if there is tension for any other reason then herbs such as Valerian need to be used.

Valerian is a muscle relaxing herb as is Kavakava. Often reasonably high doses have to be used in order for them to have the desired effect so they are best used under a natural
practitioner’s guidance.
Adenosine on the other hand only needs a very low dose, but is a ‘practitioner only’ item so may not be available in health shops. Note that a dose that is too high often leads to prolonged ‘REM’ sleep which is the part of the sleep pattern in which you dream. So a dose that is too high may lead to excess dreaming!

5HTP has been shown to be beneficial in teating insomnia and improving sleep quality.
Often I would be recommending 5HTP be used in conjunction with herbs such as perhaps Californian Poppy or Mexican Valerian, Hops and Passiflora which can support the body, help relaxation and aid the sleep process.
Please ‘Contact us’ if you would like a specific herbal blend made for you.

Also when you are suffering from sleep deficit your body will need to make up this deficit before it returns to a proper sleep pattern.
Sleep deficit occurs over time as your body keeps a ‘record’ of how much sleep you have missed. So when the body is given the chance to rest properly often you will feel as if you
have overslept and woken up feeling ‘zonked out’!
In actual fact the body still needs more rest and the feeling may repeat itself until the body has ‘caught-up’ and a new sleep pattern is established.

However there is always a reason for the body not being able to rest and these need to be attended to.

Stress of any kind will disrupt the ability to sleep soundly. look to the cause of the problem and try and find a solution. If this is not possible, then simple remedies such as a warm glass of milk prior to bed time can do wonders. It is now known that there is some basis for this traditional home remedy as modern research has found a unique peptide fraction in milk that is protective of sleep disturbance.

Also herbs such as those mentioned above (Valerian and Kavakava) plus others such as Tart Cherry, Passiflora, Chamomile, Oats and Hops have long been used to promote sleep and others such as American Ginseng (Panax notoginseng), Bacopa, Withania, Saint John’s Wort, Evening Primrose Oil are often used to help the body cope with the stresses of life.

Spinal misalignment is usually an obvious reason but not so obvious if there is no back pain, and this can often be the case. Restless legs, cramping or hot burning feet at night can all be signs of spinal nerve impingement.

Inflammation any where in the body can disrupt the sleep cycle. This thought to be because the body produces cortisol in response to inflammation which in turn reduces Serotonin levels (Serotonin is needed for sleep to occur naturally). The use of anti-inflammatory drugs or herbs often leads to improved sleep.

Magnesium deficiency is also not always obvious but means that the body is in a constant state of tension and unable to rest.

Alcohol, while often appearing to induce sleep often disrupts deeper sleep cycles.

Nicotine, may also appear to be calming but in actual fact is a potent neurostimulant and can cause sleep problems as can caffeine.

Hormonal changes (as in menopause) can cause huge sleep disruption. This usually needs treatment with hormonal balancing herbs and/or the addition of Bio-identical progesterone cream.
Adenosine and herbs such as Valerian can be used in conjunction as hormones can take some time to balance effectively.
See page on ‘Menopause’.

Indigestion, breathing problems, some medications, street lights outside a bedroom window as well as many forms of anxiety and stresses will all contribute to problems with sleep. So if trying to get a better nights sleep, get to the cause of the problem and be patient with the remedy!