Home Remedies: Acne Anxiety and Anorexia

The use of these simple remedies can help relieve some of the annoyances that plague us every day and provide a holistic alternative solution to our little health problems.

Acne

Acne is a chronic skin condition wherein blackheads and pustules appear on the skin surface of the face and other parts of the body such as the back and chest. It is a malfunction of the sebaceous glands. These glands normally produce sebum that keeps the skin soft, supple and elastic. When the exit of the sebum is blocked, the dead cells that form the blockage become black resulting in the blackheads. If the base of the blocked gland becomes infected, a reddening and inflammation of the spot may develop. Acne is very common among those in puberty because of the changes in hormonal activity during that time. If acne becomes severe and remains untreated, it could leave scars and pockmarks that can be very hard to treat.

The traditional remedies for acne use various herbs in a facial steam. One of these is a mixture of chickweed, elderflower and marigold which are used in equal parts. Thought to be curative also is agrimony which is applied externally. Another cure involves spreading sulphur ointment over the spot. There are a lot of abrasive substances to remove blackheads on sale nowadays but an old trick is applying a watch key over the unwanted blackhead and pressing.

Although a lot of people still squeeze out their blackheads, it is best not to squeeze the infected ones. In fact, this makes it worse. Diet is said to be a factor in the development of acne, although many experts feel that there is no evidence for this. Generally, aperients ere recommended.

Another cure for acne involves mixing two ounces of clover flowers, two ounces of nettle tops and two ounces of comfrey flowers with four pints of boiling water. Simmer this until the mixture is reduced to only two pints. A wineglass of the mixture is to be taken every three hours.

Inflammation of the Adenoids

The fleshy growths at the back of the nose are called adenoids. Where they become inflamed or enlarged, a very common home remedy is to mix up a solution of salt and water and sniff it up the nose. This could prove to be uncomfortable.

Alternatively, a simple solution of warm water and one teaspoonful of salt is gargled. This solution is also used for sore throats.

Anxiety

Everybody feels a little anxious about something sometimes. This is normal, but when the anxiety slowly builds up, this can take a very big toll on the body. There are a lot of herbs with a noted calming effect on the nerves. These herbs are chamomile, balm, cloves, catnip, lavender, hops, lime flowers and passa flora as well as orange blossom, skullcap, thyme, valerian, vervain and wood betony.

Anorexia or Lack of Appetite

The fundamental definition of anorexia is simply the loss of appetite. One of the more common traditional treatments of anorexia is mixing a drink made from a handful of the seeds of caraway and hops. This is especially recommended for the loss of appetite following a serious debilitating illness. Other remedies include angelica, barley, carrots and watercress because they are thought to stimulate the appetite. Herbs that encourage eating and are considered to be appetite stimulants are chamomile, sage, thyme, lavender, tarragon, yarrow, marjoram, hawthorn, myrrh, gentian, wormwood, hops and centaury. Horseradish is also a very good appetite stimulant.

Michael Russell

Your Independent Herbal guide.

Alzheimer's: Creating a Safe Soothing Place for Your Loved One

Alzheimer's disease causes more than memory loss. Patients develop visual agnosia, the inability to identify objects and people. They develop auditory agnosia, the inability to process sounds, and other agnosias as well. These mental failures are painful to witness.

You can't change the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, but you can create a safe and soothing place for your loved one.

Perhaps your loved one has moved in with you. Even if your loved one is in a nursing home you may influence - and perhaps change - the living space to meet his or her needs. These action steps are a starting place. As your loved one's disease progresses you will think of other ways to help.

1. REMOVE CLUTTER. Too much clutter is upsetting and makes it harder for your loved one to find things. Clear off the bureau, bedside table, and other surfaces. You may wish to buy open boxes for storage. I bought a bathroom shelf for my mother, the kind that goes above the toilet and is held in place with springs. Open shelving made it easier for her to store and find things.

2. CLEAR PATHWAYS. Remove scatter rugs and make sure there are no doorway obstructions. Shorten or wind up long electrical cords that could trip your loved one. Move furniture away from the middle of the room if your loved one uses a walker.

3. ARRANGE FURNITURE. The furniture arrangement depends on the degree of your loved one's dementia. Plan the arrangement on paper first. I arranged the furniture in my mother's studio apartment. The couch was across from her bookshelf, which held Mom's treasures. Her small eating table and chairs were in front of the window so she could enjoy the view. After you have arranged the furniture leave it in place.

4. USE VISUAL CLUES. The Canadian Government, in an Internet article called At Home With Alzheimer's Disease, says you should mark the door of the AD person's apartment in a very distinct way, perhaps with a photograph, a wreath, or a flag of some sort. I hung a heart wreath on the door of my mother's apartment. Thanks to the wreath, Mom always knew which door was hers. Experiment with other visual clues, such as a picture of socks on the front of a sock drawer.

5. INCLUDE FAMILIAR THINGS. Alzheimer's: Soothing the Transition on Moving Day, an article on http://www.MayoClinic.com, says it's important for the Alzheimer's patient to have some familiar things. Familiar belongings can trigger feelings of ownership and boost your loved one's sense of security, the article notes. My mother felt secure in her studio apartment because she had her own bedroom furniture, eating table, and favorite chair.

6. CHOOSE CALM COLORS. Nancy L Mace and Peter V. Rabins, MD, authors of The 36-Hour Day, say brain impaired people may be less able to distinguish between similar color intensities. Your loved one may not be able to tell the difference between light blue and light green, for example. Bright colors may be upsetting. That's why The Greater Illinois chapter of the Alzheimer's Association recommends soothing pastel shades such as peach, pink, beige, ivory, light blues, greens and lavenders.

7. MARK SPACE WITH COLOR. The contrast between light walls and dark hand rails will help your loved one to distinguish space. The authors of The 36-Hour Day suggest painting stair risers and treads in contrasting colors. Mace and Rabins also say you should outline doors, mantlepieces, and other things the person bumps into with bright tape in a contrasting color and color intensity.

8. BE CAREFUL WITH PATTERN. Patients with AD see and hear things that have no basis in reality, according to the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center in San Diego, CA. This point is made in an Internet story from The Greater Illinois chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Apparently the residents of one nursing home thought the vines on the wallpaper were snakes and they kept beating the walls. At this time of life plain fabrics and wallcoverings are better choices for your loved one.

9. HAVE ENOUGH LIGHT. Accidents can happen in dimly lit areas or areas with lots of shadows. Make sure the is enough light, especially in the bathroom. Put a night light next to the bed and mark the way to the bathroom with additional night lights. The 36-Hour Day, says putting reflective tape around the bathroom door may also help your loved one at night.

10. CUT THE GLARE. Buy flat paint instead of gloss to cut down on glare. The floor should also have a non-glare surface. You may also reduce glare by hanging sheer drapes at the window and installing blinds. Use soft light bulbs in lamps. If your loved one is severely demented, close the curtains at night and cover up mirrors.

11. PREVENT WANDERING. Hang small posters on the doors to keep your loved one from wandering. You may also hang beaded curtains in open doorways. Install door and window locks in unusual and/or hidden places. The Canadian Government, in its publication At Home With Alzheimer's Disease, recommends two locks - a chain lock and a dead bolt - on exit doors. If you have a door that opens onto a busy street hang a red STOP sign on the door.

12. ADD LIFE. A growing plant can give your loved one weeks of pleasure. Before you buy a plant, however, make sure it isn't toxic. Provide a watering can if your loved one is still able to water the plant. (Check for spills later.) Watching fish is also pleasurable for those with Alzheimer's, but if you buy fish you should care for them. Your loved one may also benefit from pet therapy.

These action steps will help your loved one to feel safer and calmer. As his or her dementia progresses you will have to take more action steps. The best action step you can take is to keep saying I love you.

Copyright 2005 by Harriet Hodgson.

http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been a nonfiction writer for 27 years and is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists. She is th author of two Alzheimer's books, Alzheimer's: Finding the Words, (a communication guide) and The Alzheimer's Caregiver. Her 24th book, Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief, written with Lois Krahn, MD, is available from http://www.amazon.com.

Free Credit Score

The credit score is an indication of a person?s financial creditworthiness. It is used to verify whether the person qualifies for a loan, or other credit, based on whether he has repaid his last loan satisfactorily. A credit score is used by banks and other lending companies for estimating how risky the borrower is. It helps them to know how large a loan can be given and at what rate of interest. In other words, a credit report is a reflection of the past credit history of an individual.

In the US, the credit score is based on the FICO (Fair Isaac Corporation) score that is calculated using mathematical and statistical techniques. There are also other versions of calculating credit scores such as the kind that Beacon and Empirica use. A FICO score is based on various factors including: punctuality of payment in the past, capacity used (ratio of current revolving debt to total available revolving credit), length of credit history, types of credits used and recent credits obtained. FICO scores range from 300-850, wherein a score below 600 is considered ?bad?, and a score above 720 is considered ?good?.

Every person has free access to credit scores from three credit bureaus: Experian (Experian/Fair Isaac Risk Model), Equifax (BEACON?) and TransUnion (EMPIRICA?). Apart from these, lenders can have their own credit scores from other credit bureaus or their internal systems. Free credit scores and reports can be obtained from these three bureaus, one from each, once a year, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). All three reports can be ordered at the same time. The reports can be obtained by visiting the website: www.annualcreditreport.com or by mailing an Annual Credit Report request form to the Annual Credit Report Request Service. Certain information has to be submitted for accessing the free reports: name, address, social security number, and date of birth. A free report can also be obtained more than once within the same year in certain situations, for example, if a person is on welfare, or if the report is inaccurate because of fraud, or if the person is unemployed and is looking for a job. If a company takes adverse action against the applicant such as denying an application for credit, insurance, or employment, one can request a report within 60 days.

Free Credit Score provides detailed information on Free Credit Score, Free Online Credit Scores, Free Credit Report And Score, Free Credit Score Services and more. Free Credit Score is affiliated with Free Government Credit Checks.

Cosmetic Acne Skin Care

Cosmetics, though by no stretch of imagination a valid line of defense, are widely used to camouflage acne. Though this is reasonable and makes sense, any kind of topically applied oil-based compound will aggravate acne. This especially applies to foundation creams, the longest-lasting of which are generally oil-based (or oleaginous).

Specifically, the ingredients to avoid include isopropyl myristate, isopropyl esters, oleic acid, stearic acid, petrolatum and lanolin. Cosmetic brands of lower quality will not mention the presence or absence of such compounds on the label and must be avoided. Though alcohol-based cosmetics are not the best choice for acne-prone skin, they are certainly preferable to oil-based ones. The best bets are water-based cosmetics which, though not as long-lasting as oleaginous ones, are far more suitable and less detrimental to acne.

There are a number of cosmetics available for camouflaging unsightly acne. They usually come in the form of a regimen that includes a concealing cream, a sheer or opaque foundation and a dusting powder. Prior to using these products, the skin must be gently but thoroughly cleansed and a certain amount of individual inventiveness may be called for to match camouflaged acne with unaffected skin areas.

A lot of research has been conducted to isolate the ideal shades of foundation creams for hiding acne, and you can now choose the shade that best suits the degree of acne you suffer from. For instance, green creams have been found most suitable for camouflaging redness resulting from rosacea. Yellow cream is best suited for purplish bruising and excessively pigmented skin (which can be caused by severe acne), and so on.

It is best to consult a knowledgeable salesperson attached to a reputed cosmetics outlet rather than pick up such ?designer? products off the shelf at the local supermarket.

Acne Care provides detailed information about acne care, acne care skin tips, acne skin care centers, and more. Acne Care is affiliated with Acne Skin Care.

Running & Muscle Cramps Eastern MedicineTreatments

It wasn?t so long ago that visualisation techniques, stretching and yoga were introduced into sport and running and made an impact . . . perhaps now it?s time to consider a new style of treatment.

If you have tried everything to relieve your cramps and nothing has worked, then you're about to be enlightened.

Japanese Acupuncturist and lecturer Paul Movsessian explains the concept of treating cramp from an 'Eastern' perspective.

?From an oriental point of view, as with Chinese and Japanese medicine there?s this concept of ?Chi? - which is commonly translated as energy ? but energy is not really the right word for it.?

?One of the doctors from Japan, Dr Manaka, found that the language of quantum physics and general systems theory is actually more appropriate for what oriental medicine is trying to describe. So instead of energy we should think of it as ?information?.?

?So ?chi? is really information.?

?There are many types of ?chi? in the body. There?s the chi that deals with the breath, the chi which deals with your digestion, the chi which deals with your immune system on the surface of the skin and so forth.?

?If that information doesn?t get moved along correctly, then it will produce some area of blood that doesn?t move along. So basically blood follows chi.?

?Chi has to move, so all disease, in eastern medicine, is viewed as a chi stagnation, or something going wrong with the chi or the information of the body.?

?When that happens, blood doesn?t flow through the muscles and tendons. The main system in the body which governs this is the liver channel and the gall bladder channel.?

?There?s a difference between saying liver meaning liver organ rather than the liver channel ? and gall bladder organ versus the gall bladder channel. Now the liver and gall bladder channels are the pathways where this information moves along, and eventually they lead to the organ itself.?

?And all the organs have what we call concordances ? they all relate to something. They have an orifice (an entry point for energy), they have a sense, they have a sound, a season, a temperature that they prefer. So you see a set of symptoms in different parts of the body when you get problems.?

?You can tell which channel is most damaged by a bunch of symptoms that may arise. These symptoms form a pattern that, from our point of view in the western world, we wouldn?t say is linked to the liver or the kidneys or another organ, but that?s how we look at it in oriental medicine.?

?When we talk about cramps, we start with the fact that the liver deals with nourishing the muscles and tendons. That?s the key feature for the liver. And the muscle and tendon pathways tend to run from the foot all the way up the inside of the leg, through the genitalia and up through the breast and to the eyes.?

?So a lot of eye problems relate to the liver and to problems with muscles and tendons.?

?You can check how good your liver is with the blood . . . if you try to make a fist when you first open your eyes in the morning. Now if you can make quite a strong fist as soon as you wake up, that means the liver?s health is quite good. It?s able to take the blood in and take the blood out quite smoothly. If it?s a weak fist, then you probably have a predisposal moving towards that problem.?

?The same thing with people that can?t open jars first thing in the morning until the circulation starts moving through their system and then they start to feel a bit better. That?s a typical liver problem.?

Paul goes on to describe how the different forms of treatment work - acupuncture, ear acupuncture, moxa, ion pumping cords, Sotai treatment and treating the constitution through subtle changes in lifestyle.

Acupressure is another form of treatment that you can apply to yourself - here is the first of 4 acupressure points that will work to provide relief:

. . .the next thing you could do would be the pressure points on the body that you could massage. These would affect the calf muscles and the whole leg and there are 2 main areas or pressure points.

These points treat the constitution ? the root cause of the problem.

The first pressure point is known as ?liver3?. You come to the bones of the big toe and the second toe - these are the metatarsals ? and you follow these along to where these metatarsals come to a junction on the top of the foot. This is about half-way along your foot.

When you find that area and press it, you?ll find a sore spot. Massage that spot and the area using the thumb (as it has the greatest force of the fingers) and that area will improve circulation through the liver channel. It?s the strongest point on the liver channel.

In his book on how to prevent and cure muscle cramps, Newland explains there are three more pressure points that provide definitive and immediate pain relief.

Paul Newland is a health and nutrition consultant, trainer, martial arts instructor, commercial helicopter pilot and author. His Ultimate Cramp Busting Guide is one of the internet's leading health information books and is the definitive guide to preventing, treating and curing cramps associated with exercise. In the Ultimate Cramp Busting Guide Newland speaks with 6 health, sports, nutrition, medical and complimentary health care professionals and explains why you get cramps, the best ways to treat them and how to prevent them from happening again.

Diagnosing Breast Cancer

As the number one cancer affecting women in the United States, breast cancer is getting a lot of attention. Studies show that the earlier breast cancer is detected the better chance a woman has of beating it. Learning the warning signs and symptoms may help a women to get an early diagnosis.

Cancer is a disease that starts in the cells. Cancer is formed when cells keep dividing even though they are supposed to stop. They then form extra cells that lump together and form a tumor. Symptoms of breast cancer vary depending on the stage it is in. In the early stages of breast cancer there may be no symptoms. There is usually no pain or any other sign that breast caner is present. However, as the cancer grows symptoms may start to appear. There may be a lump either on or around the breast or under the arm. The breast may change in looks and size. There may be discharge or change in the nipples. If a women experiences any of these symptoms a visit to the doctor is recommended.

A common test to check for signs of breast cancer is called a mammogram. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that will show abnormal tissue growth. Another way to check for breast cancer is through an exam. A breast exam can be done by a woman or her doctor. It involves touching and feeling around the breast and under the arms for any lumps or abnormalities. Getting regular breast exams and mammograms are one of the best ways to detect breast cancer in the early stages.

Besides mammograms and physical exams there are some other ways to diagnosis breast cancer. An ultrasonography is where an ultrasound is used to look at the breast. Aspiration, also known as a needle biopsy is where a needle is used to remove fluid or tissue that is then looked at in a laboratory. Usually tests like these are done if a mammogram or exam show signs for concern.

Breast cancer is a very real threat for women of all ages. Every woman should be conscious of any changes in her breasts. A doctor will recommended when a women should start getting a mammogram, typically this in the later thirties or early forties. Knowing the symptoms and keeping diligent about exams is the best way to prevent breast cancer from spreading and growing.

About the author: Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides breast cancer information on Breast Cancer Facts!

6 Steps to Clear AcneFree Skin

6 Steps to Clear, Acne-Free Skin

Hundreds of medications, treatments, cleansers and cosmetics are available for people with acne, but the most important elements of an acne-fighting program won?t cost you a cent.

1. Nourish your skin by eating a healthy and balanced diet.

Most health care specialists agree that a healthy diet will benefit your skin. Cut down on caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates, all of which can activate the hormones that tell your sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Add more fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, juices and other healthy treats to your daily diet, and you?ll see in improvement in your skin.

2. Drink lots of water to maintain the skin's elasticity.

Plenty of water is essential to the health of your skin. One of the main activities of the body?s self-healing system is to filter the blood, a job performed mostly by the kidneys, with help from the skin in the form of perspiration. This self-healing system removes the toxic wastes of metabolizing food and of other harmful substances that get into our bodies one way or another.

This purification system operates efficiently only if the volume of water flowing through it is sufficient to carry away the wastes. 6 to 8 glasses (64 fluid ounces) of water a day is the recommendation. To reach your quota, carry bottled water with you in your car, your purse, your briefcase?wherever you go.

Get the water habit, and your skin will thank you for it.

3. Exercise regularly for good circulation.

Get into a regular routine of exercise. Do it for at least half an hour, five days a week. Exercise improves your blood circulation, helping your body clear toxins from your system, including your skin. Better circulation also increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Exercise also relieves stress, which is a common cause of acne flare-ups. Last but not least, exercise releases endorphins, the feel good substance in your brain that puts a smile on your face?the best beauty secret of all.

4. Cleanse your face?then tone, moisturize, and exfoliate.

At night * First remove your makeup with an oil-free makeup remover and a cotton ball. * Then wash your face with lukewarm water and an oil-free, non-comedogenic (doesn?t block pores) cleanser. * Pat (don?t rub) it dry with a soft towel. * And apply an oil-free moisturizer.

In the morning * Wash your face as directed above, then use an alcohol-free toner. * Next apply moisturizer. * Then apply makeup?all oil-free and non-comedogenic.

Once or twice a week use an exfoliator with alpha hydroxy acid or glycolic acid. This will aid in the shedding of dead skin cells, the ?food? for the bacteria that cause pimples.

If you exercise during the day, you?ll need to wash your face a third time, immediately afterward.

5. Protect your skin from the sun and harsh weather.

One popular myth about acne is that tanning will clear it. It may seem so at first, but soon you will notice that your tanned skin becomes less pliable, making it less able to shed oil and dead skin cells, which clog your pores. Your acne will become worse, not better.

Always wear sun block with at least an SPF-15 UVA & UVB rating. If you?ll be outside in the sun for long, wear a wide-brimmed hat.

6. Get plenty of good-quality rest.

Your immune system requires energy to do its work, including the work of protecting your skin from acne. The deep sleep the brain needs for ?recharging? comes several hours into the sleep cycle. That?s why a few hours here and there won?t do. Most people need at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep a night. Consider it beauty sleep.

If you make these 6 items part of your daily routine, you?ll look better, feel better, and have less need of expensive acne treatments and cosmetics.

Visit Ron's website Latest-Acne-Solutions for the latest research into acne relief.

Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact and all links are hyperlinked.

Mesothelioma: Description Diagnosis and Treatment Prognosis

?The number one cause of cancer is ignorance. Applied knowledge of nutrition can help you remove or reduce the risk factors and abort the manifestation of any growth.? ?Uzo Onukwugha, MD

Mesothelioma is a tumor of the flat cells that cover the surface of the lungs, adjacent wind pipes and the thoracic cavity. Mesothelioma is an acronym of mesothelium (flat or cellophane covering) and oma (Latin name for growth or tumor). It is a rare type of lung tumor and tends to be associated with occupational hazard. It is an affliction that involves a multi-disciplinary approach and institutions: the physicians, occupational and preventive medicine, surgeons, occupational safety, worker?s compensation, attorneys, occupational therapists and labor unions.

Risk Factors and Evolution of Tumor:

Long term inhalation of asbestos fibers is associated with certain occupations like ship-building, insulation, construction and demolition. The worst culprits are blue and white asbestos. Cigarette smoking may double the risk. The disease is subtle and may take several years if not decades to produce symptoms. At onset, the diseases may not produce symptoms. A construction worker may only notice symptoms long after retirement. Appearance of symptoms may prompt the victim to seek medical help. The symptoms and signs may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fibrosis, pleural effusion, calcified plaques and bronchial cancer. The cancer may eat up the lungs, wind-pipes, ribs and adjacent muscles.

Types of Mesothelioma: The growth may be fibrosed and localized or it may be diffused and malignant spreading to adjacent tissues.

Fibrous Mesothelioma:

Presents as chest discomfort, and all sorts of breathing problems. As with pleural-affected tumors, joint pain may be noticed in the hands, wrists, ankles and knees. Examination of the hands may reveal finger clubbing.

Chest x-ray is important in the clinical diagnosis and may reveal localized growth as soft-tissue mass. There may be air-fluid level showing effusion into the lung cavity.

The prognosis with surgical resection for this type is good even with evidence of spread. However, some may progress to full-blown malignancy.

Malignant Mesothelioma:

The symptoms of malignant mesothelioma appear much later and seem to peak at 55. The symptoms are diffuse and tend to develop in a couple of decades after exposure to asbestos. Cigarette smoke tends to worsen the onset of the symptoms like breathlessness, and chest pain.

Chest x-ray may reveal connective tissue complications like clumping of the pleural tissues (pleurisy), pleural effusion, lung collapse, basal fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and lupus erythematosis. Other autoimmune diseases and bronchial cancer may develop. Sputum test is non-contributory and open pleural biopsy may be necessary to characterize the type of tumor before treatment. At this stage, surgery is hopeless. Palliative radiotherapy or anticancer chemotherapy may be attempted but the prognosis is hopeless.

Prevention?better than cure:

The best treatment of mesothelioma is preventive measures and health advice to the at- risk professions. These include wearing face masks and finding alternatives to asbestos and quitting smoking. Change of jobs may be necessary.

Complimentary Treatment:

Green super foods like spirulina, chlorella, barley grass, wheat grass, green kamut, and alfalfa helps the body to stand the stress of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Green foods are also known to boost immunity and attack free radicals, neutralize toxins released by cancer cells and improve the overall quality of life of patients. Supplements like multivitamins, minerals, aloe vera, and essential fatty acids can be added to the greens as adjunct to treatment.

Uzo Onukwugha's site is geared towards teaching info-preneurs the inner game of business success. Visit his site at: http://www.weblinkbusiness.com and subscribe to his e-course to learn more. Reach him at: uzonukwugha@yahoo.com. He is your go-to-guy when the gurus forsake you for whatever reason.

Acne Scar Removal Surgery

Acne scar removal surgery is one way of treating the scars left behind from acne. Acne scar removal surgery can be done by your dermatologist.

If you are considering acne scar removal surgery be sure to do some research. Before you have acne scar removal surgery check out the doctor and the treatments available.

Some things your doctor will consider before acne scar removal surgery are your age and health as well as the type and severity of the scars. Before acne scar removal surgery your doctor may also need to know how you tolerate certain meds and procedures.

One type of acne scar removal surgery is called dermabrasion. When dermabrasion is used the top layers of skin are removed with a machine. This type of acne scar removal surgery should produce skin that appears smoother.

Another kind of acne scar removal surgery is the chemical peel. A chemical peel is an acne scar removal surgery procedure where the top layer of skin is removed chemically as the name implies. The skin regenerates after a chemical peel and often the appearance of the skin is improved.

Laser resurfacing is a type of acne scar removal surgery that uses a high-energy light to burn away acne-damaged skin. This acne scar removal surgery is used to minimize fine scars.

Punch grafts are an acne scar removal surgery that is used for deep acne scars. When this acne scar removal surgery is used, unscarred skin is used to replace skin that is scarred with acne.

The best acne scar removal surgery for you will be the one that you and your doctor decide on together.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com. He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and acne skin care products that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

The Best Acne Products

The are many acne products on the market today that can help clear your skin. However, they don't all work for everybody. Sometimes a simple over-the-counter cream can do the trick, other times you may need a more powerful prescription medication. Learning about all of your options is a good starting point.

Our faces contain millions of pores that must remain open and clear in order to let natural oils drain to the skin's surface. In the event that a pore becomes clogged, the oil builds up and mixes with bacteria to form a painful, inflamed pimple.

Fortunately, there are acne skin care products that can not only help get rid of pimples, but also prevent new breakouts in some cases. Over the counter acne products are usually the first stop because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Oxy, Clearasil, and Stri-Dex are the most common topical treatments that you can purchase without a prescription.

Benzoyl peroxide is the active ingredient in Oxy, Clearasil, and many other acne products that you can find at your local drugstore. It is also a main component of Proactiv Solution, which can be purchased online. Although it can help with mild to moderate cases of skin blemishes, some users may experience itching, burning, and swelling of the treated areas.

Stri-Dex contains salicylic acid, which also has its share of possible side effects. This product can cause skin irritation, allergic reaction, peeling, and burning. Most over the counter acne skin care products have a significant chance of making acne worse rather than improving the condition. This is because they contain harsh ingredients that your skin may be sensitive to.

Some of the best acne products are natural supplements, namely antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can remedy your skin problems from the inside out. Rather than topical applications that are quite often ineffective, natural supplements are taken orally, and the nutrients within can help treat the pimple, rejuvenate the skin and prevent new breakouts from occurring. All of this is accomplished without the potential side effects of OTC and prescription acne skin care products.

Besides over the counter topical solutions and natural supplements, there are a number of prescription acne products such as Retin A and Accutane, which contain stronger active ingredients for severe breakouts that don't respond to other treatments. These meds come with some side effects, so they should be a last resort for most individuals.

Talk to your dermatologist to find out best acne products for your skin. A cream or oral supplement may just work for you. If not, perhaps you need a stronger medication. In any event, rest assured that the solution is out there somewhere.

David Bloom is an avid health enthusiast and a regular contributor to a variety of health websites. He is the author of Natural Acne Products, a blog dedicated to the treatment of acne, covering conventional and natural remedies for clearing up blemished skin.

Alternative Acne Treatments A Brief Users Guide for Parents Teens and the Rest of Us

Every day numerous acne suffers turn to alternative methods to treat their acne. The two main reasons for the growing popularity of such treatments are; people looking for medication with less harmful side effects then tradition acne treatments. Secondly are the people who have been unsuccessful with the various over the counter and prescription options. Generally alternative treatments are not regulated by the FDA and hence you will not receive much guidance from medical doctors on their use. Word of month and the alternative medical community is the main source of information on such options.

For teenage girls and women herbs that balance hormone levels such as chaste berry, black cohosh, dong quai, evening primrose, wild yam, and red clover are quite commonly tried. Herbalists believe that these herbs balance the female sex hormone estrogen and will counterbalance the hormone androgen. Since androgen is believed to trigger excess sebrum production, which can cause hair follicles to clog and acne to form, acne could be prevented or reduced.

Herbs that are thought to help reduce inflammation and infection can be used for both male and female acne suffers. Echinacea, licorice, dandelion root, and burdock are all thought to contain properties that help with the above by killing bacteria. The herbs salvia and red peony are also used sometimes to help acne suffers improve their skins ability to heal.

Vitamin B5 also known as pantothenic acid is a commonly used vitamin to treat acne. It become widely popular after Dr. Leung a Hong Kong acne expert published a paper on its effectiveness. His paper was based on the theory that acne sufferers are deficient in vitamin B. The result is excess sebum production, the root cause of clogged hair follicles leading to acne. Dr Leung also tested his theory through a clinical trial where 100 acne suffers were given 10g of B5 daily, after six months Dr. Leung?s test group had a ninety percent success rate.

Topical treatments such as tea tree oil and seaweed, which are both believed to have powerful antibacterial properties are also widely regarded as being effective on acne inflammations. Tea tree oil comes from the ti tree in Australia and seaweed from the oceans.

A common belief is that controlling stress reduces the severity of acne. So anything you can do to alleviate stress will help. Many acne suffers turn to exercise for stress relief, yoga being very popular. Aromatherapy can also be used in stress relief, along with acupuncture, and meditation.

While the predominate reason many people turn to alternative acne treatments is to reduce the harmful side effects of tradition medicines the reverse may actually be true. Caution should be used before trying any alternative treatments. They may have adverse side effects not common known due to the lack of regulations on most alternative treatments.

Mark MacKay is a researcher, marketer, and former Acne sufferer. For more information on Acne Myths, Causes, Types of Acne, Acne Treatments, Skin Care, Adult Acne, Teen Acne, Acne Discussion forum, latest research articles and much more visit Mark?s Acne Treatments Explained web site now.

Guidant Corporation Recalls Heart Defibrillators

A worldwide recall was announced by Guidant Corporation for nearly 50,000 of their heart defibrillators due to potential malfunctions in these devices.

Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration did not require Guidant to take this step, the FDA has stated that they completely support the decision due to the serious nature of the potential defect.

Specifically, the Guidant Corporation heart defibrillators have been shown to have a tendency toward short-circuiting. This means that it is possible for the device to not provide a shock to the heart when needed to regulate the heart rhythm. Reports indicate that at least 45 heart defibrillators have malfunctioned leading to at least 2 days since May 2005.

Models being recalled by Guidant Corporation include:

?PRIZM 2 DR, Model 1861, manufactured on or before April 16, 2002 ?CONTAK RENEWAL, Model H135, manufactured on or before August 26, 2004 ?CONTAK RENEWAL 2, Model H155, manufactured on or before August 26, 2004

In addition, the FDA announced that Guidant would also be recalling another group of heart defibrillators that have shown to have memory error problems. This group includes the models known as PRIZM AVT, VITALITY AVT, RENEWAL 3 AVT and RENEWAL 4 AVT.

?Patient safety is paramount and our highest priority, Guidant CEO Ronald W. Dollens said in a statement. Guidant takes seriously its responsibility to create the most reliable products and services, enhance patient outcome and limit adverse events to patients. They also stated that Guidant will continue to sell the original Prizm 2 DR heart defibrillator in spite of a redesign done after discovering a potential flaw in 2002.

If you or a loved one is currently using one of the recalled heart defibrillators, you may have a liability claim against Guidant Corporation. Please e-mail or call the Law Offices of Peter G. Angelos, P.C. to schedule a consultation with an experienced defective product attorney at (800)252-6622.

Myths About Skin Cancer Are You Safe?

Sara spends much of her summer near the beach. She lives in a mild climate and is very athletic. She loves to swim, bike and play games outdoors. Sara knows the dangers of the sun and so she opts for tanning salons to get her 'golden glow' while being sure to apply sunscreen every day before heading out.

Joseph lives in a cooler, northern climate. The summers can be very humid, but most of the year is mild or even below freezing during the harshest winter months. The beach has never been much of a draw for him and he spends most of his time doing indoor activities or at his job. Joseph doesn't worry about sunscreen and only had one sunburn that he can remember and that was when he was a child.

Which of these examples do you most associate yourself with? Did you know that Sara and Joseph are both at risk of developing skin cancer? We have all heard the warnings about the dangers of sun exposure. We know all about the importance of wearing sunscreen and hats. But are YOU protected from skin cancer? Consider these myths and facts:

MYTH ONE: Tanning Beds are Safer than the Sun

20 minutes of exposure in a tanning bed is roughly equivalent to four hours in the sun. Although sun beds use UVA rather than UVB rays, 'The Skin Cancer Answer' states that UV-A penetrates more deeply into the skin than UV-B, can cause skin cancer, and may suppress the immune system.

MYTH TWO: Wearing Sunscreen at the Beach is Protection

85 percent of UV rays can even make it through on cloudy days. That means you are equally at risk in the car, walking the dog or letting your children out to play at any time of year, even when you're not at the beach. Of course, you are usually less attired at the beach and so covering up is recommended even when wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen also wears off with sweat and water and should always be applied every two hours or after getting wet.

MYTH THREE: Taking Care Of Your Skin Now Will Protect You

Sadly, skin cancer can take 20 or more years to develop. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that most people receive about 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure before the age of 18. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood is estimated to double the risk of melanoma later in life. Taking better care now will reduce the risk, but not eliminate the damage already done.

MYTH FOUR: Having a Tan Means You're More Protected

Dark skinned individuals are less likely to develop cancer, but tanned skin is actually damaged skin. Repeated tanning injures the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer.

So how do you plan to protect your family this year? Some suggestions are to limit exposure to the sun, especially for infants. Examine your skin for early signs of damage. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure and every two hours after that. Teach your children good safety habits and be sure you and they are covered up when outdoors. Have fun and be safe.

Travis Waack is the webmaster of http://health.online-006.com/skincancer.html If you would like more information on skin cancer, this is where you will want to start.

Toenail Fungus Treatment with the Acidophilis Beer Soak

This natural toenail fungus treatment information came to me via a professor of mine during our medical procedures course. I am passing it on to you in hopes that people try this first before resorting to the toxic effects of Lamisil.

Acidophilis Beer Soak:

The basic premise behind this odd sounding natural toenail fungus treatment is to soften the nail with the beer, create an acidic environment with vinegar which is beneficial to good bacteria and deadly to fungus and then penetrate the nails with beneficial bacteria to help kill and prevent further recurrences.

Essential Ingredients:

Acidophilis sachets containing 125 billion organisms

Guiness Stout beer or any other dark beer.

White Vinegar

Basin big enough for your feet or hands

Time

Persistence and Consistency

Natural Toenail Fungus Treatment Procedure:

In tub, pour 1 liter of room temperature beer into a basin

Add 60 billion acidophilis which is half of one sachet.

Add 1 liter of White Vingear

Soak clean feet in the solution for 30 minutes before bed or when best for you.

On removing your feet or fingernails from the basin, file the nails down with a pumice stone or file

After each 3rd day, toss out the entire solution mixture and remake using the formula: 1 liter of white vinegar, 1 liter of dark beer and the remaining half of one sachet. This keeps the solution's ingredients in active live form. If too old, it will not work.

Repeat for 30 days every day. Do not skip a day for best results.

Do twice a day for faster results

What to look for: As the fungus gets killed by this natural toenail fungus treatment, you will notice that the new nail growth from the nail base is coming in clear. This is a good sign. Some people see clearing at the base within one week and some people see clearing at the base in one month. It all depends on how fast your nails grow and how often you soak them.

It will take about 3 months for the infected nails to completely grow out. As long as you keep seeing the nail base come in clean and grow out cleanly, you are on the right track.

Make sure you do this toenail fungus treatment daily. Make it a routine. Watch some TV, read a book or wash the dishes for 30 minutes. Do not skip a day. If you do, it may take a bit longer than a month but keep at it.

If you know your nails grow slowly, then consider purchasing some MSM or Silicea 6x cell salts as they have shown to increase nail growth.

This anti-fungus protocol is an excellent way to help prevent liver damage via Lamisil.

If the formula is not strong enough, play with it. Perhaps add some more acidophilis to the mix or more vinegar - or more beer. Play with the concentrations.

If you've any questions, I'm happy to answer them for you.

Contact me to obtain the acidophilis sachets. I am abiding by the manufacturer's request to not make them freely available to all without contacting me first. It is a physician grade product and they want to keep it that way. You may send a request to: soak@healthegoods.com

I estimated the total cost of this procedure to be about $150.00 That is very inexpensive compared to Lamisil - and much healthier to your liver.

Even if you drink a couple Guiness Stouts while you do the soak - it may still be safer than Lamisil on your liver. :)

(c) 2006 HealthE Goods, Inc and Benjamin Lynch

Benjamin Lynch has a BS degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Washington. Currently, he is obtaining his doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine at Bastyr University. Visit Ben's natural health product store, HealthE Goods where one can use our Natural Health Forum to ask health questions. We provide physician-grade non-prescription natural health products. Wholesale spa products are available to all that qualify. Do visit our Natural Health Information Center. We are here to help serve the public with proper health information and effective products. Products described in the article are available at HealthE Goods.

How Birth Control Pills Can End Your Acne

It would almost be shorter to list the things that birth control pills DON'T effect, then to mention all the things they DO effect. They don't, for instance, effect vegetables, they don't effect rocks, and they don't effect outer space, however they may, on occasion, effect machinery and small animals.

Weather you're taking them to even out your menstrual cycle or to keep yourself from getting pregnant, now you have yet another reason to try out birth control pills,... clear skin. Birth Control Pills have proven that they help reduce acne. So much so in fact that the FDA has approved Ortho Tri-Cyclen and generic norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol (the stuff in Birth Control Pills) for use in the treatment of acne.

How Does this work? Androgen is a male hormone that increases oil production. Androgen is always working away, but it increases it's production of oil just before menstruation begins, which could result in your skin breaking out around you period. Where does the pill fit in? Low-doses of birth control pills have shown that they decrease these excess androgens. That means less oil and less breakouts, and they can even be used with other acne therapy (details can be found in the February 2001 Skin Therapy Letter)

Does this mean you should go out and pick up some birth control pills to kill that acne? Probly not, remember these studies were done with low doses of birth control pills. You might wanna think of it more as one of the things to add to the benefits of birth control pills. Maybe it'll help offset the nausea and headaches over on the drawbacks side.

Jessica MacQuarrie is a writer from San Franciso California. She currently edits her web site http://www.endacnenow.com from her bay area home.

The Truth About Getting A Tummy Tuck

Tummy tuck operations have been increasing in popularity. They have shown the highest rate of increase over the past 3 years (over 60 %) compared to other plastic surgery procedures. Women and men who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from tummy tuck. A tummy tuck can achieve quite dramatic effects. Patients love their slimmer, trimmer figures and flatter abdomens after having a tummy tuck.

A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure, so expect to be out of action for a while. A tummy tuck also known as an abdominoplasty medically falls under the category of major invasive surgery. You need to consider before you have the operation whether or not you are willing to take the risk.

A tummy tuck involves surgically removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower part of the abdomen. The remaining skin is then pulled tight, and sometimes tightening the abdominal muscles. The intention of a tummy tuck is to remove and then tighten loose flesh that may be the result of rapid weight loss or pregnancy. A tummy tuck is not intended to be the primary means for removing fat. If you are not tolerant to pain then you may not be happy to hear that the pain and soreness from a tummy tuck can last as long as a year after the operation.

A tummy tuck can be performed at the same time as other cosmetic surgery procedures or other general surgeries, such as hysterectomy. A tummy tuck can be performed alone, but often it is done in conjunction with liposuction. Liposuction is used primarily to remove the excess fat deposits. The tummy tuck then tightens and tones the remaining skin in that area.When you are dieting, a tummy tuck, unlike liposuction, should be performed when you reach your ideal or desired weight.

Many people initially are not aware that a tummy tuck generally leaves a significant scar. A tummy tuck scar can run horizontally across the entire width of your body from hip to hip, depending on how much skin you lose. As well, depending on the procedure, a tummy tuck scar can run vertically anywhere from your pelvic area to the chest area, although this is not common. A tummy tuck scar is permanent. The severity of the scars can depend on how much skin was removed, how well your body heals, how well your body scars, the skill of the individual surgeon, and what technique was used.

Before consulting with tummy tuck surgeons, you should be absolutely clear about what you want to get out of the surgery. Talk honestly with the tummy tuck MD's and voice your goals. He or she will be able to tell you if it's a realistic goal and if you need to shift your expectations. Tummy tuck surgeons can also advise you as to what other alternatives are available for you to achieve your goals.

What should you look for in tummy tuck surgeons? The first thing to make sure of is that the surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. To be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the surgeon must meet stringent requirements. First, they must have graduated from an accredited medical school. They must hold a license to practice medicine in their state of residence. They must successfully complete a minimum of three years of training in general surgery in a residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

To check the credentials of a tummy tuck surgeon, you can call the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Many libraries also carry The Official ABMS Directory of Board-Certified Medical Specialists.

Your next step? Explore the possibilities looking and feeling better. Quick and easy tummy tuck info. Visit us and claim your FREE ebook,101 Romantic Ideas as a welcome gift. Click Here =>Tummy Tuck

Physician Assisted Suicide And The Art of Care

In an age of managed care, rationing of care, and technological care, there is The Art of Care. We live in a society that has been given various choices to ?self-determine? one?s destiny in dying as one has been able to ?self-determine? one?s destiny in life itself. We have medicines and technological capabilities, and areas of the country allowing us to hasten or postpone one?s dying. The purpose of this position paper is to outline the legal, ethical, religious, and philosophical ramifications involved in Physician Assisted Suicide (PAS) and how affects of such decisions effect those connected to this issue.

The pros for PAS are:

? People should have the right to die with dignity

? People should have the right to die with their senses intact

? People should have the right to die free of pain

? People should have the right to take charge of futile care

The cons for PAS are:

? Slippery-slope effect, or acceptable and unacceptable euthanasia

? No policy is able to effectively govern the scope of the right to die

? True wishes are hard to discern due to communication challenges

? Playing God

I am simply giving an overview, and not, a detailed analysis on this issue. My intent is to surface the issues in PAS and move toward a philosophy of care that can minimize people?s fear of death by the utilization of a type of care = The Art of Care. The Art of Care will help people gain inner strength that can enable him or her to cope with the external losses happening to their body. At the end of this paper, I hope to outline practical ways people can help terminal patients cope with a dying body from a place inside them that remains steadfast ? their soul.

It was Karl Barth who said that ?it is for God and God alone to make an end to human life? and that God gives life to us ?as an inalienable loan.? It is my belief that we are given meaning and hope in all life situations. This instinct to survive and find value in all of our existence leads me to trust that there is much to learn in all phases of our life. Our ability to trust our Creator?s divine guidance and plan to make us more soul than body at the end of life is just as important as other aspects of living as well. We may do well to trust more and control less. It appears that maturity teaches us all to let go and follow a path inside us that does not always make sense to us externally. As we do, we begin to follow insight. To see from within what cannot be seen from without is our soul?s longing to be known and to surface in our lives.

In On Liberty, John Stuart Mill cautions, ?A person should be free to do as he likes in his own concerns, but ought NOT to be free to do as he likes in acting for another, under the pretext that the affairs of the other are his own affairs. Autonomy is so important to us that science, as well as religious communities strive to honor and respect it. For within autonomy is the ability for one to discern for him or herself one?s needs, values, and destiny. This is a movement into the art of care (science and religion) can work together in forging a healing response on the level of soul when physical cure is no longer possible.

On the other side of this issue, it is evident that the Oregon?s Death with Dignity Act has had its impact on America. Some people want this service available even if it is not chosen by a great number of people. The Oregon ?s Death with Dignity Act has been used very sparingly and a slippery slope does not appear to be in the present forefront. ?In 2001, twenty-one Oregonians chose to end their lives by ingesting a lethal dose of medication prescribed by a physician, accounting for 0.33% of the 6,365 Oregon deaths from similar diseases. The number of Oregonians opting for physician-assisted suicide has remained fairly stable, ranging from sixteen in both 1998, the first year the law was in effect, to twenty-seven in both 1999 and 2000. Clearly, there is no landslide in the making.?

It seems then, that people still want to have some sort of control in their dying and autonomy remains prevalent throughout the issue with PAS. This strong need to determine one?s path in the face of suffering offers us hope, faith, and love in a sense of the self not easily defined without losing the grandeur of a trust within oneself to be led by the same power that brought our lives into being. It is here that we turn to the art of care to help us when curative care no longer has any answers. Here, we begin where we end, in that we trust in the very wisdom that has created us.

Samuel Oliver, author of, What the Dying Teach Us: Lessons on Living

For more information; http://www.soulandspirit.org

Acupuncture as an Effective Alternative Therapy for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic neurological disorder that generates a wide range of symptoms. Most people with fibromyalgia complain about recidivating muscular pain, rigidity of joints and a generalized state of body weakness. Although these manifestations may point to rheumatoid arthritis, clinical examinations can reveal any signs of physical damage in people with fibromyalgia.

Due to the fact that most medical treatments are unable to overcome fibromyalgia, the disorder is considered to be incurable. However, this belief is far from the truth. Although fibromyalgia is a serious disorder with a pronounced chronic character, there are actually effective means of treating it. Acupuncture has proved to be a very reliable form of therapy for fibromyalgia, providing symptomatic relief and preventing the recurrence of the disorder.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that has been successfully used to treat various illnesses for thousands of years. This oriental therapy can relieve most of the symptoms generated by fibromyalgia in a relatively short period of time. Acupuncture can quickly restore physical and mental balance, improving the overall health of the people who follow this form of therapy.

Acupuncture can quickly ease fibromyalgia pain and fatigue. This form of alternative therapy uses needles to stimulate various nervous centers of the body. In Oriental medicine, it is believed that the internal activity of the organism can be influenced by activating certain points on the body. These points are referred to as ?acupuncture points? or ?acupoints?. Therapists use acupuncture needles to activate specific acupoints on the body, correcting the activity of the entire organism simply by stimulating the nervous system.

This ancient Chinese practice is very benefic for people affected by fibromyalgia. Acupuncture inhibits fibromyalgia pain by stopping pain impulses from reaching the brain. This form of therapy can also regulate the body?s production of hormones, increasing the levels of serotonin, endorphins and encephalin, which have a very important role in relieving pain. Acupuncture can also improve the blood flow, restoring muscular tonus. Furthermore, acupuncture can help people with fibromyalgia relax, inducing them a state of comfort and wellbeing.

The majority of people affected by fibromyalgia admit that they have experienced an amelioration of their symptoms after only a few sessions of acupuncture. The first symptoms that can be relieved with the means of acupuncture are muscular pain and weakness, rigidity of the joints, and fatigue. After a month of ongoing therapy, acupuncture can also reduce stress, depression and mental confusion.

Chinese therapists claim that acupuncture works on multiple levels, healing the body, mind and spirit altogether, helping people re-achieve their balance. Oriental therapists also state that acupuncture stimulates and increases the vital ?chi? energy, improving the overall health of the organism.

Acupuncture is very benefic to people with fibromyalgia and it can quickly alleviate their symptoms. In present, this form of therapy is probably the most effective means of overcoming the disorder.

If you want to find out more information about Fibromyalgia please visit this website. You will also find valuable information about Fibromyalgia pain and Fibromyalgia symptoms.

The Importance of Being Positive To Relieve Pain Part 2

In a previous article I spoke about how a positive attitude can help you manage your arthritis pain.

I suggested you get yourself a book on Positive Thinking. If you haven?t got one yet, please do so. Most are not expensive and will certainly be of great benefit to you.

Did you try my suggestion about thinking back to when you did not have arthritis? Have you tried that technique and had any results yet? If you haven?t had any results please persevere ? it may take time. By the way you will need to continue practicing this technique EVERY DAY. Its power is in the reinforcing effect it has on the subconscious.

One of the worst aspects of constant pain is the way it affects your attitude. The feelings of anxiety and negativity ?why did it happen to me? feeling helpless and feeling like you can?t cope.

You might feel like you have lost control of your life and have difficulty concentrating. And the worst part is because these feelings are so powerful they continue to feed on themselves.

But the feelings of positive thinking can be more powerful. You have it within you to overcome all the negativity and feelings of inadequacy. You are a very powerful person and it is within you to do it. How?

I have already suggested getting a book on Positive Thinking and how to get the image in your mind of when you were pain free.

Sometimes a little help from other sources is beneficial.

You might like to consider glucosamine? Glucosamine is reported to be benefiting arthritis sufferers by reducing joint pain. Information about glucosamine can be found by simply clicking on the link at the end of this article and then following the links on the home page.

Other things you can do:

- Talk to people who have a positive attitude ? their approach to life will rub off and help you.

- Don?t talk about how bad you feel or how bad your pain is. When you are talking to someone and they ask how you are, tell them how great you feel.

I have a friend who when asked how he is, always replies ?fantastic?. I have never seen him down or unhappy because his reply triggers his subconscious mind into making his body respond to feel ?fantastic?. Try it ? it works.

- When you get out of bed every morning say out loud, ?I feel fantastic today, I am going to have a great day?. Repeat this 5 ? 10 times and do it at least 5 ? 6 times every day. You will be surprised the effect this will have on you.

By the way don?t say anything like ?I won?t have any pain today?. See what it does ? just the very mention of that word makes you conscious of it. Avoid thinking about it or using the word.

- When you go to bed at night, say out loud (in your mind is OK if you are going to disturb someone) ?I am going to have a peaceful, restful night and wake up in the morning feeling fantastic?.

- Avoid talking to negative people. This can sometimes be difficult if they are friends or relatives but steer the conversation to how you want it. Be positive, talk about good things, talk about things you have enjoyed. Take control of the conversation. You may be surprised at how their attitude will change.

- Try and do some easy exercise. Go for a walk ? even if it?s only a short distance. Each day try to do a little more, it doesn?t have to be much more but it gives you a sense of achievement, a positive feeling. And don?t worry if you don?t do what you set out to do ? forget it. You can?t change what?s happened ? look forward to to-morrow. Exercise also has the benefit of building up natural chemicals in the body that give you feelings of wellbeing.

- If you find yourself thinking negative thoughts or something is bothering you say to yourself ?STOP? and then concentrate on something good or nice or pleasurable. Very soon just thinking ?STOP? will trigger an immediate change in your thoughts.

- Inject a little humor into your life every day. As they say ?laughter is the best medicine?. If you have a favorite comedy show make sure you watch it ? if you don?t, find one that you like. Get a book of jokes. Make sure you read some of it everyday.

If you just do some of these things you will feel so much better but put your heart into them. Believe that they will work because they do. If you do all of them then I admire you but whatever you do please do something. Nothing will change unless you make it change.

Cathy Posner

Cathy Posner is an arthritis sufferer and lives in Wauchope, New South Wales, Australia. Her website is as a result of personal research and where arthritis sufferers can find up-to-date advice and information on arthritis pain relief.

Need Content?

You may use this article on your WebSite, or Newsletter providing you include all links and this biography.

http://www.get-arthritis-pain-relief.com/index1

Folk Medicine The Natural Solution

Long before orthodox medicine took center stage in the health care practices around the world people who were sick used to visit different kind of doctors. These doctors were not the steth-wielding, tech-savvy, white-coated medical geniuses of today. Mostly, they were bearded, wizened and gnarled humans looking less like physicians and more like witches or wizards. But they were revered, loved and even feared because of one particular skill they possessed ? the healing touch.

In the early days of civilization, a vast majority of people were cut off from ?formal? medical care. Competent physicians were a luxury, to be enjoyed only by the super-rich and royalty. For everyone else, there was the local witch-doctor who was respected for his or her in-depth knowledge of folk medicine. This was the man or woman who treated everything from boils to gangrene, from cesarean to malaria and even small pox.

What is astonishing is that many of these so-called ?doctors? effectively cured their patients. What is even more interesting is that these medicines have lost none of their charms with the passage of time and more and more of them are finding their rightful place in mainstream medicines.

Remember how your grandma used to give you wild cherry bark for cough, or boil the twigs and leaves of red cedar to cure your cold? Well, that?s folk medicine! If you were to ask your grandma how she learnt those techniques, she?d draw a blank! These unofficial health-related practices were passed on informally by word of mouth and were developed through observation and experimentation.

Illnesses ranging from the common cold and sore throat to warts, cancer, malaria, impotence and arthritis are said to be treated through folk medicine.

Folk medicine largely depended on the use of natural materials such as herbs, plant roots, trees, barks, fruits, insects and food items. Therefore, these practitioners paid a lot of attention to botany.

But the advent of modern medicine saw a decline in folk medicine as these ?rustic? practices were put under the microscope, dissected and then discarded as worthless. One more reason contributed to the decline of folk medicine.

Folk medicine started its downward slide with the advent of magical healing powers. Seedy people on the lookout for a few fast bucks were successful in capitalizing on the trust and faith of large sections of the society. Once their ruse came to light, people began to lose faith in folk medicine. Soon folk medicine was relegated to a gray area between orthodox medicine and quackery.

However, as more and more people have started to realize, there is a wealth of knowledge in traditional folk medicine. As people have started adopting the holistic way of life, there is a struggle to re-invent the precious folk medicine of yore. In recent years, the folk medicine of indigenous people is becoming more popular.

Some examples of folk medicines that we use in our daily life are:

Garlic - to reduce blood cholesterol levels

Chinese acupuncture - to treat blood clotting and migraine

The juice of neem leaves - to treat malaria

Poultice - to treat infected wounds

Turmeric - to treat bee or wasp stings

Today, amazingly more than two-thirds of the world?s population rely on the healing powers of folk medicine at some point of their lives. For many nothing else is available or affordable. For some, nothing else is acceptable. And for a very few, nothing else works.

Natural Alternative Medicine

Asbestos Lawyers

The companies exposed to the hazardous effects of Asbestos continued to expose their workers to the deadly element. No protection from the Asbestos dust and no information on its health hazards were provided to the Asbestos workers. Many died. The result observed was ugly, and it was therefore an essential need to bring justice by law to those who suffered ailments from Asbestos in the environment.

Asbestos Lawyers are the lawyers that specialize in the cases dealing specifically with the hazardous effects induced by Asbestos exposure. They work in the area of law and bring home justice in the form of compensation to those who suffered ill health, because of Asbestos in the present and/or past environment.

A patient of Asbestos-induced health problems, or his family, is eligible for filing a lawsuit. It is important for the patient to choose a lawyer on the basis of his success in the industry of law and justice. The number of successful cases presented to the affected individuals can be a testament of the lawyer?s credibility. Experience in the same or similar area is always an additional benefit.

The lawyer of choice shall then assess the case, answer pertinent queries, predict the direction for the Asbestos lawsuit, and bring home justice in the form of compensation. It is also important to provide clear, true and full information to the lawyer. This adds to the efficiency of the lawyer and his confidence in the case assignment. If one is unable to open all facts to the lawyer, the law firm may choose to hire a person for investigation about the exposure of Asbestos to the patient, and this all is done at no extra cost. The best thing is that all Asbestos Lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so the patient or his family members are not required to part with any money before their lawsuit.

Asbestos provides detailed information about asbestos, asbestos and mesothelioma, asbestos cancer, asbestos exposure and more. Asbestos is the sister site of Malignant Mesothelioma.

John of God Miracle Man Article

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE from around the world diagnosed as terminal or incurable by modern medicine travel thousands of miles each month, enduring long international flights and exhausting bus rides to Abadiania. A small town in the mountains of central Brazil. They come to see miracle healer, Joao Teixeira de Faria, the man the people of Brazil have affectionately titled, Joao de Deus or John of God.

Joao is a simple man of humble beginnings who devotes three days of every week to healing his fellow man without payment for his services.

As a young boy, Joao experienced blackout spells. On awakening he learned he had performed miraculous healings. Religious leaders, the medical field, the police and those in power threatened by Joaos abilities had him beaten, thrown in jail then cast out of town. This was a pattern that went on for years. Even with that, Joao still treated those who persecuted him when their own incurable illness arose. Joao frequently states, it is not me who cures, God is the healer, I am simply the vessel. Joao is known as an unconscious medium; he never recalls any of the healings he's performed.

Not everything can be explained scientifically or rationally as there are over 35 Healing Spirit Guides including King Solomon and Saint Ignatius that use Joao as their instrument, completely taking over his body and mind. Guided by these Spirits, Joao was told to buy a specific piece of land in Abadiania and build a healing sanctuary on it. Joao named it the Casa de Dom Inacio, after his Patron and Master Guide, Saint Ignatius.

Since he began 44 years ago, Joao has treated and healed millions of people. While incorporated by the Healing Spirits, Joao will see all who come to him without stopping to rest. The poor and the famous alike stand in line, up to thousands a day. They come to witness miracles and hope to receive one of their own. For example actress Shirley Maclaine who was told by Western Medicine she would never dance again. That was until Joao removed a tumor from her stomach.

Joao is acclaimed to be the most powerful spiritual medium of our time and the greatest healer since our beloved Jesus the Christ. From curing cancer, AIDS, tumors, heart conditions, addictions, helping the lame to walk and the blind to see, Joao treats every form of illness imaginable. Many people report powerful outcomes that can be measured; X-rays before and after for example. The proof is a room at the Casa filled with thousands of discarded crutches, leg braces and wheelchairs.

The two kinds of surgeries performed through Joao are visible and invisible. Visible surgeries are done with forceps, a scapel or knife. Patients experience minimal pain, bleeding or anxiety during surgery. There are no tranquilizers, pain medication or antibiotics used before, during or after surgery, and no case of infection has ever occurred throughout Joao's many years of work. Invisible surgery is performed while meditating in what is known as the Current room at the Casa. Healing Spirits energetically bring about miraculous corrections on mental, emotional, physical and spiritual levels. Healing can be immediate, others recover over time, and some may require additional visits.

Thousands of written testimonies and personal letters of gratitude fill the Casa office along with stacks of newspaper articles. Reports from clergymen, scientists and doctors worldwide support claims of Joao's work.

Joao de Deus and his Casa de Dom Inacio Healing Sanctuary give us the opportunity to witness and experience God's love and deepen our connection with him. A place where our hope turns into faith, and faith into certainty. For the thousands who travel to Joao each month from around the world, it is a spritual awakening, a spiritual transformation, and the beginning of the end to their illness, on many levels.

(C) 2006, Tony Garza

Tony Garza is a Spiritual Development Teacher and Casa Guide. Tony conducts escorted healing journeys for the ill, the called and those seeking a spiritual awakening to John of God in Brazil. Visit: http://www.JohnofGodMiracleMan.com

Rosemary

Rosemary
(Rosmarinus Offinalis)

Medical Parts: Leaves, flowering tops.

Description: Rosemary is an evergreen shrub which originated in the Mediterranean area and is now widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves and as a kitchen seasoning.

Properties and Uses: Antispasmodic, cholagogue, emmenagogue, stimulant, stomachic. The stimulant action of rosemary helps promote liver function, the production of bile, and proper digestion. It also acts to raise blood pressure and improve circulation. Because of the genuine danger of poisoning, however, rosemary is more often used externally.1

As popular as rosemary is today, its? place in herb lore is what I find most fascinating. Rosemary flourishes in the Mediterranean area. Near the sea, there are veritable hedges of rosemary stretching as far as the eye can see, filling the air with its pungent, heady aroma.

In ages past rosemary was associated with female dominance; or as the old saying goes, ?where rosemary flourishes the misses is master.? So prevalent was this belief that men were known to come home late at night, pruning sheers in hand, to cut back the rosemary bushes near their front gate, before the neighbors started to talk.

In herb lore, rosemary was considered a useful remedy for headaches, upset stomach, to ward off disease or calm the brain. It was thought a sprig of rosemary placed beneath a child?s pillow at night would keep away nightmares; and rosemary was often woven into the bridal bouquet as a symbol of fidelity.

Today, rosemary is as common in most spice cupboards as salt or pepper. While it may have lost some of its mystery over the intervening years, it has lost none of its usefulness. Rosemary is a common ingredient in many shampoos and conditioners, hand creams and cosmetics. (For a great hair tonic recipe please refer to my article on Nettles).

While dried rosemary can be purchased at virtually any grocery story, there is something immensely satisfying about growing the herb yourself. People often have difficulty growing rosemary, primarily because they treat it far too kindly.

Rosemary grows best in the temperate climate of the Mediterranean, but it does so in the highly acidic, sandy soil of the region. When planting rosemary, ignore the specialty packages of potting soil and fertilizers. If you happen to live in a region with very poor, sandy soil, you?re definitely in luck. Stick the plant directly into that lousy sand, in a sunny location, water it generously, and then leave it alone. The less attention and care it gets, the better it will do.

Rosemary will also do well in a pot near your front gate (a fun way to torment your husband). Just remember to give it lousy soil and lots of sun. Rosemary does not do well if over-watered. It is also extremely difficult to get rosemary to grow well indoors. Not even my grandmother, raised in the Mediterranean and a rosemary enthusiast, could keep hers alive indoors.

I have had some success keeping rosemary alive through a mild winter by heavily covering the roots with a dense compost, then wrapping the entire plant in burlap. But if you live in a northern climate, you will probably have to settle for replanting each spring. Don?t worry; with lots of sun, rosemary will grow quite rapidly.

1. The Herb Book, by John Lust. Benedict Lust Pub., May 1974

M.K. Welty hosts an informational website on herbs, herbal remedies and herbal gardening. For more great tips on Using Herbs or to locate purveyors of organic herbs and herbal remedies, Please visit us at: http://www.UsingHerbs.Com

If you are interested in learning the art of creating your own handmade herbal soaps, please visit our new site at: http://www.youcanmakesoap.com

The Myths and Facts of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a severe disease that is thinning out its roots everywhere in the world especially in United States of America. It is a lethal form of cancer that is dreaded across the globe. For though there is medication to handle the disease?s symptoms, a cure to mesothelioma is still missing.

Excess confrontation of asbestos is posited as the primary cause of mesothelioma.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is used in insulation, clothing and fire-resistant materials. But its usage is often less significant than the disasters caused by it. For those who work with asbestos, breathe or inhale the infesting tiny asbestos particles that result in development of mesothelioma and other Asbestos Related Diseases (ARDs). Initially people were unaware of the damaging nature of these particles. It was discovered only lately through various tests such as X-Rays, MRI tests i.e. Magnetic Resonance Imagery and CAT scans or Computed Axial Tomography scans.

Mesothelioma?s very cause has become its bone of contention. This is because numerous asbestos workers and consumers who have been inflicted by this deadly disease claim that they were not intentionally forewarned of the perils of this material. Consequently lawsuits were and are till date filed on these companies. However, it is a myth to think that these court cases have driven many asbestos-manufacturing companies to bankruptcy. The facts reveal that many such companies have survived under the protection of Chapter 11 and that they have in turn used their insolvency to pay off their former debts and have reorganized themselves by it. But this is not the only myth associated with mesothelioma, there are countless others.

1. One universally known myth is that nothing can be done after a person is in the grip of mesothelioma. Though there is no cure for this unsympathetic form of cancer, some medicines can help with lifestyle quality and symptoms.

2. People commonly believe that working in mines and playing in piles where you are surrounded by asbestos and staying close to a person suffering from mesothelioma are the only factors responsible for its outbreak. But in reality, mesothelioma and any other ARD is not a communicable one and individuals who have never taken up any such tasks are even inflicted with it.

3. The next important thing hovering on people?s mind related to mesothelioma is smoking. Some believe that smoking invokes this disease. But the truth is that those who smoke and are exposed to asbestos perhaps involve the highest risk of being infected by mesothelioma. But there are innumerable patients of this ARD who have never smoked even a single cigarette throughout their lives.

4. Those who think that an exposure to asbestos will result in an instant exhibition of its symptoms are even wrong. According to medical science, the effects remain latent and unknown for 10-40 years.

5. Generally it is deemed that even a slight exposure to asbestos particles leads to mesothelioma. So if these fibres are detected in your house or office, they should be removed as soon as possible and all the materials that came in contact with it should be thoroughly cleansed. But this is not what is actually required. An improper hurried removal can be extremely hazardous since these particles easily get mixed in the surrounding air and cause damage. The best technique to ward off the threat of asbestos particles is to properly cover the affected area. Moreover, this task should not be taken up by any na?ve individual. Only the skilled certified asbestos abatement professionals should be called to do this job.

6. A number of people are of the opinion that Chrysotile is a safe form of asbestos. But researches have shown that all forms of asbestos including the largely used Chrysotile are effective in causing Mesothelioma and other ARDs like lung cancer, asbestosis etc.

Robert Linebaugh writes about a variety of health topics, but focuses on mesothelioma. Learn more at http://www.justmeso.com.

How To Tackle Acne Simple Yet Effective Guidelines!

The most common problem facing a majority of young people is acne. Acne is a skin disease that generally afflicts people in their 20s. However it is also seen in some people as old as 40. Many people tend to ignore the condition, as it is not a serious or a debilitating disease. However if the condition is not treated properly, it can lead to ugly and permanent scars on the face and other parts of the body.

The condition is caused by hormonal imbalance. Acne leads to closing of the pores and that leads to black and white pores. The condition if not treated can lead to permanent scars.

Acne is of two types, Inflammatory and noninflammatory. While the noninflammatory is generally mild, the inflammatory type of acne can be quite painful. The inflammatory glands turn into pimples and sometimes turn infectious. This condition if left untreated can lead to deep and permanent scars. The condition results in white and black pores on the face, neck back and the chest.

The first and the foremost measure to tackle acne are to follow good hygiene. Excessive intake of coffee, alcohol and a sedentary lifestyle are also the major causes for acne.

A strict regimen of good personal hygiene will bring in good results. And if this coupled with a balanced diet and proper lifestyle, the problem can be tackled most effectively.

However, for any remedy to bring in good result, it should be followed up regularly and repeatedly. Temporary measure will only bring in temporary relief. Therefore do not neglect acne when it is in a mild condition this can deteriorate and lead to a far severe chronic condition that may require expert care and treatment.

By following a proper diet and simple remedies, acne can be completely cured. You can follow any one of the following methods to treat acne.

Apply lemon juice on the affected area.
Apply mashed papaya on the affected areas.
Apply sandalwood paste.
Apply a pack of Multanimitti.
Wash the face with a sulfur based soap.

Along with the above treatment a healthy and balanced diet will go a long way in controlling acne. Drink at least one liter of water every day. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Exercise regularly and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

Use a face pack that suits you skin regularly and then wash your face thoroughly with plain water. Apply antiseptic lotion on the pores and clean them thoroughly. The most effective method for preventing acne however is by following good hygiene, taking a balanced diet, proper exercise and leading a tension free and active life.

Venkata Ramana is the writer of Acne Solution blog. Read his informative reports about Acne Scar and get rid of acne forever!

How to have beautiful Face Skin Free of Acne

To have beautiful, soft, radiant skin you need to eat plenty of the right fresh fruits, vegetables, fiber, and water. Water and fiber are critical because it helps to move out toxins using the regular channels of elimination rather than using the skin as an exit point.

A word of Caution: Sudden face or body eruptions can indicate a potentially serious medical condition. If your blemishes look large and like welts, this could be caused by a serious medical condition and you would need to see your doctor immediately.

You can deal with you acne or skin problems by, also applying known nutritional and herbal remedies that give you better health and give your skin the nutrients it needs.

The beauty of your skin is a reflection of the health of your organs and upon your psychological condition. The way the inside of your body looks like is reflected on your face, physical appearance and your thoughts.

The amount of work you put into clearing your acne will determine how quickly you clear your face. By being consistent in following good health practices, you will be able to get rid of your acne.

If your acne is heredity, it is not true that you cannot do anything about it. If you know that other members of the family have had acne and previous generations also, then you are susceptible to acne. Knowing this, you can now arm yourself with some powerful nutritional and hygiene habits that will prevent acne from taking hold.

Traditional Medical Acne Treatments

I do not recommend using medications for acne, such as,

* Benzoyl peroxide ? opens pores to kill bacteria

* Antibiotics ? erythromycin, tetracycline ? kill bacteria everywhere it goes in your body and skin.

* Retin A ? helps to break open plugged pores, prevents new plugged pores, and helps to prevent scarring.

* Topical steroid, cortisone derivative, drug

These drugs and many others have serious side effects that you will want to avoid. If you are dark skinned and are using Benzoyl Peroxide, you can end up spotting your face as a side effect.

Most of these medications take three to ten weeks to provide results.

All my recommendations are for natural methods to relieve acne.

Different Remedies

In future articles, I will be outlining some of the remedies and steps you need to take to clear your acne. These remedies and natural foods that you use will not only help beatify your skin but will also help you to get rid of acne.

You may have to experiment to determine what works for you. By providing you with many choices, this gives you the best possible chance of you succeeding in gaining better health for your face. Also, not all remedies provide the same benefits to each person.

So this is where your experimental skills come in. You may have to test a few things, but in the process you will be learning about how to take care of your body. This information will stay with you a lifetime.

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. He writes a newsletter call ?natural-remedies-thatwork..com.? More acne hints and information on his acne e-book can be found at: http://www.acne-remedies.for--you.info

The Ocean Of Consciousness Ensnared In The Bag Of 6 Chakras (Subtle Plexus)

The gross aspect of human anatomy is of the ordinary type and it has been studied and understood using technical apparatus. After making a pathological analysis surgeons operate the broken organs.

Over and above this when we talk of the conscious aspect of the human body then it definitely is both gross and subtle. It is so gross that as soon as the life force departs the gross body falls flat and that body which just a moment before was walking and talking is now rotting away. And simultaneously the body is so subtle that all its small /big units are joined to the cosmic consciousness. There is something present in this cosmos which they imbibe as per their capability and throw it away too. Because the individual soul is a part of the cosmic soul, the former accepts energy from it and contributes to it in its own capacity. Whenever there is a discussion of Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) there is also a description of this very subtle conscious center.

There are innumerable centers in the human body which abound in life force and vital force energy. These are sensitive spots and their total number is 700. When there is an imbalance of vital force energy in these sensitive areas, health too deteriorates and thus such a person falls prey to many diseases. In the medical field these sensitive spots are given a lot of importance. In fact the basis of Acupuncture and Acupressure methods to cure various diseases in China and Japan are these sensitive spots.

The famous scientist K. Carlfried in his book ?The Vital Centres of Man? writes that nerve fibres are more concentrated in these sensitive spots and not only are they related to one another but are also related to their center. Apart from sensitive spots there are 7 other chief centers in our body in which the infinite wealth of vital force energy and extrasensory potential are found albeit in a latent state. These 7 centers are called Chakras or plexuses. In these Chakras the knowledge fibres (nerves) are agitated in great measure. The Chakras are present at the region where our gross and subtle bodies unite.

The famous psychologist of Europe, Paracelsus, has called these bodily subtle centers as ?astrum? (stars) and says that these are storehouses of power. According to him through the medium of these centers energy of galaxies and other parts of the cosmos enter our body.

Yogic scholars call Chakras as lotus too for eg heart lotus, navel lotus, scalp lotus etc. In the English language this lotus is called plexus and according to Japanese Zen Budhism they are called ?Cusos?. In Chinese Tao philosophy the Chakras are the union of cosmic male and female energy i.e. ?Yang and Yin?.

The description of the make up of that subtle body given by Sir John Woodroffe in ?Power as Reality? and in ?Shakti evam Shaakta?, V. G. Rele in ?The Mysterious Kundalini?, Vol. 2of ?History of Indian Philosophy by Shri Dasgupta, ?Tibetan Book of Great Liberation? by Evans Vantage and ?Mythology of the Soul? by H.G. Bense, is in reality that which was put forward by Tantra and Yoga by Indian Rishis and philosophers. Kundalini?s Ida and Pingala, Sushumna, Merudand and the 2 centres Mooladhar-Sahasrar described in scriptures like Yoga Kundalyupanishad, Yogarnav Tantra, Dhyan Bindu Upanishad, Mahanirvan Tantra, Shatchakra Nirupanam, Kularnav Tantra, Sharada Tilak etc. can be elucidated in a scientific language in a very limited manner.

Scientists term Sushumna as an electric dipole. Its lower part called cada equina is full of ?ve electricity and the upper half called cerebrum has +ve electricity. The state of cada equina and Mooladhar Chakra is one only. In the same way the ?ascending reticular activating system? present in the cerebrum is equivalent to the Sahasrar Chakra of Yoga. In a rare situation when the flow is from the bottom to the top, it is said to journey from the seed of passion to that of Brahman and it is fulfilled in the Devyaan Marg of the Merudand. Symbolically these parts are given various names but in reality they are present as subtle electromagnetic waves. Scientists tell us that on an average there is an electric pressure of 1 lakh volt/cm in our body. Like other creatures this leaks from the genitals, skin, and breath in that order and thus gets destroyed. Only man has been blessed by God with the power of raising his soul force which has fallen in the pit of downfall. The leakage can be stopped by man and via Yogic practices of journeying from one Chakra (plexus) to another the Sahasrar Kamal can be activated in the head region and thus can augment one?s divine light.

As mentioned before there are totally 6 Chakras. The seventh which is Sahasrar is called a 1000-petalled lotus. Over here we will give a brief outline of the connection of the anatomy of the human body to its corresponding Chakras.

Mooladhar Chakra is situated in the lower half of the Sushumna (the central canal of the spinal chord) in the carksijial area of the Merudand corresponding to the central area of the anus and genital organ of the perineum. Over here the bunch of sacral nerve roots that emerge from cada equina create the sacral and perineal plexus. The electrical flow in these nerve bunches make eddies that manifest energy like cyclones. This very subtle electrical flow is called Mooladhar Shakti and its main function is reproduction and procreation. The Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) sleeps here with a 3 ? round twining. This flow is experienced by Yogis as a lotus of 4 petals and these 4 are symbols of ultimate bliss, natural bliss, Yogic bliss and various valour. Here there is a vibration of Shabda Brahman (sound) and the word that emanates from it is ?Lum?. The Tanmatra of this Chakra is smell and the element is earth.

When you travel upwards on the spinal chord (Merudand) the next Chakra is Svadishthan. It is situated 4 fingers above Mooladhar i.e. in the hypogastrium. The plexus over here is made up of the nerve bunches of Sushumna and the sympathetic ganglion that are situated on either side of the Sushumna. The internal organ conjoined to it is the adrenal gland and it secretes the adrenal hormone. When this adrenalin is active it has the capacity to overcome mental turmoil and other obstacles. Its main function is excretion and emission. But when it is activated it increases vigour and vim. All mental distortions like lethargy, indolence, distrust, indiscipline etc. are destroyed. Over here there is a lotus with 6 petals. Its seed mantra is ?Vum?. The Tanmatra of this Chakra is Rasa (juice) and its element is water. Mooladhar and Svadhishthan Chakras come under one group and its union (focal point) is called Rudragranthi.

The third Chakra is Manipur. From the anatomical viewpoint it is found in the navel region i.e. the lumbar region of the Merudand. Over here is the solar plexus which is formed due to the union of sympathetic ganglion and a bunch of vagus nerve bundles. The gland conjoined to this is the pancreas which makes enzymes apart from hormones. When this Chakra is activated one?s vigour and will power augments. Its main function is to help digestion. Our mental distortions decrease and one is inclined to follow the spiritual path. This lotus situated in the navel has 10 petals. Its seed mantra is ?Rum?. Its Tanmantra is form (visible) and its element is fire. If you activate it, the 3 fires of the body are ignited and it thus helps in the upward journey. The extraordinary energy of this Chakra was measured by Japan?s Dr. Hiroshima Motoyama with his Chakra machine and he plotted a graph on its basis. Tibetans call it Manipadma. The fourth Chakra is Anahat which is situated behind the heart in the cardiac plexus. Over here the sympathetic ganglion chain, Sushumna and vagus nerve unite to form a mesh and thus supplies energy to the entire heart region. This lotus has 12 petals. The root source of pacemaker?s energy is over here. This is also called the center of sensitive emotions. This Chakra is the source of artistic skills, ecstatic experiences and delicate emotions. When it is activated, emotions like generous hearted service, spirituality, steadfastness and a sense of ?world is a single united family? abounds. The thymus gland is conjoined to it. Its main function is to harbour the vital force (Prana) and utilize it aptly. The seed mantra of this Chakra is ?Yum?. This is the focal point of Shabda Brahman or Anaahat Naad (divine sound). Its Tanmantra is sound and element is air. Anaahat and Manipur Chakras put together form the Soorya Khand and Vishnu Granthi.

In the throat is the Vishudhi Chakra. The thyroid gland and the pharyngeal and laryngeal glands situated behind it are conjoined to the Vishudhi Chakra. On activating this Chakra seeds of extrasensory potential sprout forth. This Chakra by influencing the sub conscious mind and psychic center activates the right half of the brain called ?Silent Area?. The lotus over here has 16 petals and its seed mantra is ?Hum?. Its Tanmantra is touch and space is its element. The last Chakra is called Ajna which by uniting with the Vishudhi Chakra makes up the Chandra Group and Brahma Granthi. Its seed mantra is ?Aum? and its element is mind. It has 2 petals and is the union of pituitary and pineal glands. At the focal point between the eyebrows are situated these glands and it controls all bodily functions. On activating it our divine sight is opened up. When the limbic system and hypothalamus are activated, all the brain coverings are opened up. Thus the individual soul becomes capable of uniting with the cosmic soul (God).

Sahasrar is the final station of the great journey of Kundalini awakening which is present in the central region of the brain i.e. in the internal capsule and reticular activating system. Thousands of sparks get emitted from it and hence it is called Sahasrar. It is also called Brahmalok and Brahmarandhra. The Ajna Chakra is united to it in the form of a creative center. Sahasrar is the Northern Pole which on uniting with the cosmic soul attains bliss of Brahman. Activation of Sahasrar means activating the centres of Grey Matter of the brain. Sushumna nerve which rises from the base called Mooladhar Chakra takes along with it the Ida (Ganga) and Pingala (Yamuna) nerves i.e. left to right and then from right to left. Ida which is on the left side is called Chandra Naadi and has ?ve electrical impulses. Pingala is on the right side and is called Surya Naadi which has a +ve electrical impulse. It has 2 points of union which by uniting to Sushumna as Sarawati makes a 3-fold union at the Mooladhar and Ajna Chakras. Ida and Pingala nerves represent the parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves system.

In reality it is impossible to describe Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) in anatomical terms. What we have given above is the experience of great thinkers (Maneeshis). Kundalini Shakti has many names like Divine Serpent Power, life force, fire of life etc. Divine energy attained from Kundalini awakening and activation of the 6 Chakras gives man divine powers.

Shriram Sharma Acharya, founder of the International Gayatri Family, was a great Yogi, seer and incarnation of God who wrote volumes of scientific literature mainly on spiritual subjects for world welfare and peace. For scientific e-literature: http://www.shriramsharma.com/ DESCRIPTION: Three free e-books on Indian Gayatri Science, Kundalini Yoga & Biography correlated to Neurosciences-ESP, Endocrinology, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology & Sociology for 1) material & spiritual prosperity & 2) uniting the world peacefully as one family. Sacred Mission: A beautiful borderless world. KEYWORDS: Kundalini Yoga Gayatri e-books biography Guru world peace mind psyche god nerve subtle consciousness soul divine trance endocrine glands ESP Chakras plexus meditation concentration intellect prophecy thought thinking Cheiro Nostradamus Aurobindo bliss brain Vedas solar sun energy sacred pure sense organs Prana Avatar Upanishad light cell hypothalamus pituitary transformation futurist prediction serpent power life human ethics integrity character vagus