Alternative Medicines for Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine has been scientifically proven to be a highly addictive substance. To make matters worse, smoking has been shown to be a sure-fire way to decrease the quality and years of your life. Smokers now more than ever are trying hard to kick the habit. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to smoking cessation. But for those with a lean toward alternative medicine, there are a variety of approaches to pick from.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the most well-known forms of alternative medicine. It consists of strategically placing tiny needles at various points of the body, often at critical pressure points, to help patients achieve a desired goal, such as weight loss, pain relief or smoking cessation. In the case of the latter, the needles, which are extraordinarily tiny, are placed within and around the patient's ear. This form of therapy often lasts about 20 minutes per session, with sessions continuing at a weekly frequency until the patient no longer has urges to smoke, or at the very least can ward off the impulses on sheer self-control alone.

Herbal Remedies

A number of naturally occurring herbs claim to help those dealing with both nicotine addiction and the withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking. Ginseng, an herb indigenous to Asia, has been shown to have multiple medicinal purposes, including an appetite inducer, a stimulant and a stress reliever. In the case of cigarette smokers, ginseng can prevent the release of dopamine that nicotine automatically triggers. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that provides a feeling of well-being and euphoria. It is this pleasurable release of dopamine that helps make nicotine highly addictive. St. John's wort, a plant extract, is best known for its treatment of depression. However, in some studies, it has been shown to help promote smoking cessation, especially when coupled with counseling. Another caveat with St. John's wort: It can be dangerous to take if you suffer from such pre-existing conditions as bipolar disorder, HIV and AIDS, liver disease and kidney disease. Lobelia, a flowering plant, is yet another herbal option for those seeking an alternative treatment for nicotine addiction. Lobelia increases dopamine levels in the brain, mimicking the effects of smoking. This may, for some, be a substitute for the real thing, or at least the pains of withdrawal.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis, or hynpotherapy, as the therapuetic application of the process is termed, has been thought to help assist those suffering from nicotine addiction. When seeking out a hypnotherapist, be sure your practitioner is a licensed professional. There are a number of hypnotherapy methods. The most commonly used form of hypnotherapy for nicotine addiction is behavioral hypnotherapy. Under this paradigm, the hypnotherapist puts the patient in a hypnotized state using meditative, calming techniques. Through the power of suggestion, often with the use of positive or negative imagery, the hypnotist attempts to alter the patients actions when in a fully conscious state.

Alternative Medicines for Cancer

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you may be wondering exactly what your health options are. Normally, cancer is treated with a combination of drugs, chemotherapy, and radiation. Some patients worry about what will happen if these treatments fail to work. Luckily, there is another side of cancer therapy which may help with your cancer treatment. These alternative medicines can have a good effect on tumors and cancer-related symptoms. Remember, always talk to your doctor before trying any form of therapy

Coenzyme

Coenzyme is a material which is produced naturally in the body and is used to promote cell growth and it helps to protect cells against damage which might turn them cancerous. Since this substance has not been tested in conjunction with chemotherapy, it is sold as a dietary supplement and is not regulated by the FDA. Tests on the effects of this supplement in animals have shown an increase in immune system function, which may lead to tumor shrinkage. Also, some clinical trials of coenzyme have found that it is effective in protecting the heart against side effects of another cancer drug, doxorubicin. While no serious side effects have been reported, further studies are needed to determine how it will react with chemotherapy.

Hydrazine Sulfate

Hydrazine Sulfate is a chemical compound which may be helpful in treating cancer by blocking tumors from taking in glucose, a sugar which they need to grow. It also might block a substance called TNF-Alpha which is made by the body's white blood cells. When levels of this substance get too high, it can result in a breakdown of muscles. This breakdown can create the sugars that cause tumors. Side effects of Hydrazine Sulfate have been reported to be mild to moderate, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abnormal feelings in the arms and legs, nerve inflammation, dry skin and itching, insomnia, and low blood sugar. The FDA has not approved the use of this drug for cancer treatment, but this compound is sold as a dietary supplement.

Milk Thistle

The fruit and seeds of the milk thistle are primarily used for remedies for ailments affecting your liver and bile ducts. This plant contains an antioxidant which helps to protect against the cell damage which can cause cancer. This plant has been studied in animals for its potential to make chemo therapy less toxic and more effective, but there have been no trials done on humans. Since this plant is sold as a dietary supplement, there are very few side effects. This plant has not yet been approved by the FDA.

Homeopathic Remedies for Scirrhinum

Scirrhinum is a homeopathic remedy used for treating cancer, enlarged glands, hemorrhages, varicose veins and worms. Homeopathic remedies have been practiced for more than 200 years in Europe and the United States. More than 2,500 homeopathic substances, including scirrhinum, are believed to stimulate healing. Many different dosages, potencies and treatment strategies are used, based on individual symptoms. People who practice homeopathic medicine believe that scirrhinum can resolve symptoms and help relieve disturbances in the body.

Dosages and Potencies

Scirrhinum is typically given in 200c dosage that is "plussed," which means shaken and dissolved in water, alcohol or another liquid. Potency, or the strength of the dosage, is determined by how much it was diluted and plussed. The 200c dose can be purchased at many homeopathic shops and at online retailers. It has been shaken and dissolved to a 1:100 ratio and is considered a potent dose. This dose is often used for chronic conditions, including cancer.

For treating worms, a dose of Scirrhinum 30c is usually given.

Taking Scirrhinum

Scirrhinum, like most homeopathic remedies, may be purchased as a small tablet. Avoid touching the tablets with your fingers, if possible. Pour the small tablets into the cap of the bottle and then pour them directly into your mouth. Or, the tablets can be dissolved in water and then swallowed. Be sure to have a clean mouth that is free of strong flavors as they can interfere with scirrhinum. Toothpaste and caffeine have strong flavors, so make sure your mouth is free of these flavors as well. Place the tablets under your tongue until they are dissolved. It is best to take this remedy at bedtime, when your body will be resting and not close to meal times. Discuss scirrhinum with a health professional before treating yourself.

Where to Find Scirrhinum

Scirrhinum can be purchased at many health food stores. Finding a local health food store or homeopathic doctor in your area can be a useful resource and a source of valuable information. It can also be purchased online.

Healing with Scirrhinum and Homeopathic Remedies

In his book "Getting in Touch with Yourself, Finding Your Homeopathic Remedy," Frederik Schroyens, M.D., states that a cure is not simply the disappearance of one or several complaints, but an optimally stable equilibrium physically as well as psychologically. Excerpts of his book can be found at wholehealthnow.com.

Scirrhinum can be a helpful remedy on your healing journey.

Seaweed Benefits

Seaweed, or kelp, is useful in a number of ways. Ingesting it offers great health benefits, and beauty products made from seaweed are less damaging to skin than traditional chemicals. Seaweed is an excellent source of minerals, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Types

There are several kinds of seaweed used in various ways to promote health. Kelp is used to promote healthy skin and can also be eaten, providing a source of minerals and salt. Crushed algae is often used in facial masks and creams.

Carrageenan is an Irish seaweed that is frequently used as a thickening agent in cosmetic creams. Bladder wrack, or Fucus vesiculosus, is found in many cellulite-reducing creams.

Effects

Ingesting seaweed provides numerous vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, C, niacin, iodine, iron, zinc calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium and trace amounts of B12.

Seaweed helps with the health of skin and hair in particular as a result of its high amounts of vitamins and minerals, but it also acts as a cleanser for the body as well as assisting in the regulation of hormones.

Benefits

In addition to providing vitamins and minerals, seaweed also improves the circulation of blood and lymph, contributes to the moisturizing of skin and helps detoxify skin.

Many of the benefits of seaweed are cosmetic, but the same vitamins and minerals that contribute to the beauty benefits of seaweed will also assist in maintaining overall health, including by reducing allergies.

Sources of Seaweed

Seaweed products are often ingested, but they are as frequently found in cosmetic products. Sushi, certain types of salad and many Asian recipes use seaweed as central ingredients. Using seaweed in recipes is an inexpensive way to incorporate it into a diet.

Seaweed products can be bought specifically from sources that specialize in its production. Irish Seaweed Cosmetics and other similar companies make an effort to produce high quality cosmetics using seaweed.

Considerations

When making any diet or cosmetic changes, consult a doctor first. Although seaweed allergies are rare, they do occur. Certain recipes that include seaweed as a seasoning or a main ingredient have been known to cause reactions in people with severe food allergies.

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Cures

Organic apple cider vinegar has long been regarded for its health benefits as an antibiotic and antiseptic. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was a big proponent of it to improve his overall health and the health of his patients. When purchasing vinegar, make sure you are buying raw, organic apple cider vinegar.

Diabetes

Apple cider vinegar has properties that balance and lower blood glucose levels. It can also help lower glucose spikes that come with meal intake when drunk in conjunction with a meal. Diabetics should take in 2 tablespoons of vinegar mixed in water during a meal to minimize the glucose spike.

Colds, Flu and Sinus Infections

Since apple cider vinegar is a natural antibiotic, it can be used in the treatment of colds, the flu or sinus infections. The potassium in apple cider vinegar helps clear up runny noses, and the malic acid provides antiviral properties to clear up infections, colds and flu symptoms. Toxins that can cause illness are also flushed by drinking the vinegar. If your throat is sore, the vinegar can also help to soothe it.

For coughs, runny noses, cold and flu symptoms, mix 2 teaspoons of honey and 2 of vinegar with water. Drink the mixture before meals, three times a day. For runny noses, you can use the vinegar as an inhalant. Boil an equal amount of water and vinegar on a stove and inhale the steam at least 30 to 40 times.

Skin Conditions

From itchy skin to acne and eczema, drinking and/or bathing in apple cider vinegar has been found to help cure skin conditions. The vinegar can also be applied to the skin directly (if it doesn't cause irritation) to help clear up acne or dryness.

Mix 2 teaspoons of honey and vinegar in water and take it before meals, three times a day. If you directly apply the vinegar to the skin, dilute it in water first, about 1 teaspoon to 1/2 cup water.

Lemon & Olive Oil Cure for Liver Cancer

Some people believe there are home remedies that can cure cancer, while others argue there's no cure for cancer. Millions of people suffer from cancer and are so desperate for relief that they are willing to try anything, including home remedies or folk remedies.

Gallstone and Liver Cleanse

One school of thought is that curing cancer has to do with cleansing a person's internal system. Cleansing gallstones may help cleanse the liver and other parts of the body as well. Mix this lemon and olive oil cocktail together and drink at least once a day. To make it you need: an organic or un-waxed lemon, extra virgin olive oil and filtered tap water or at least half a glass of clean spring water (available in most supermarkets).

Chop up the entire lemon once it has been washed, dried and any dark spots have been cut out and removed, including the rind. Add the lemon pieces to the blender along with 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil and approximately 8 oz. fresh spring water. Blend for about one minute. Strain the mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth and drink immediately. Drinking this mixture three times a day will cause weight gain. When trying to gain weight, drink with each meal. This drink is also good for restoring the pH levels in saliva, which will help with better absorption of nutrients when eating. Drink this mixture about one hour before eating breakfast to help flush out both the liver and the gallbladder.

Another Lemon Cure for Cancer

Drink this mixture daily one hour before breakfast to help cleanse the liver. Squeeze the juice of one-half lemon into an empty glass. Add 1 tsp. baking soda and mix in 8 oz. fresh spring water. This treatment is supposed to cure many different types of cancer, but can be used specifically for liver cancer, too. It's a good idea to add fresh lemon juice or lemon slices to water that you drink throughout the day. Fresh lemons and olive oil seem to be key ingredients to cancer cures, according to many holistic believers.

Dr. Sutter's Liver Flush

Dr. Sutter of Curezone.com has a liver flush drink consisting of apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice and Coca-Cola soda. To start the liver flush drink about 1 quart of apple cider vinegar daily for three days. Make sure to add 90 drops of Ultra Phos liquid into the apple cider vinegar each day. Drink the quart of apple cider vinegar throughout the day (with or between meals). On the third day, drink the apple cider vinegar three hours before your final meal of the day.

For the liver flush, mix together 2 oz. of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 4 oz. extra virgin olive oil and 4 oz. Coca-Cola soda. Shake the can of soda a few times so that the fizz is gone from the soda before mixing with the olive oil and the lemon juice. Stir the mixture rather than shake it. Drink immediately and then lay down on your right side with your knees slightly bent and your head properly supported. Lay still for about 30 minutes. Turn to lay on your left side for another 15 minutes. Finally, turn to lay on your back for another 15 minutes. Stand up and move around, making sure to avoid any strenuous movements.

What Are the Health Benefits of Psyllium Seed Husks?

Psyllium seed husks, from the plantago ovato, contain a formidable level of soluble dietary fiber. They are a main component of many commercial bulk laxatives. Psyllium, also be found in cereals, can help to lower fats in the blood and promote heart health.

High cholesterol

Psyllium has the capability to lower lipids, or fats, in the body and create small reductions in blood levels of overall cholesterol along with lowering levels of so- called "bad" cholesterol. While psyllium does have a beneficial effect on lowering bad cholesterol, it has little to no effect on good cholesterol, leaving those levels unchanged. Because psyllium is responsible for only small changes in bad cholesterol levels, those with very high cholesterol levels should check with their physician for a stronger or supplemental treatment program.

Laxative

Psyllium has long been associated with use as a bulk-type laxative. This soluble fiber adds bulk and volume to the digestive tract. Psyllium also absorbs a lot of water as it travels through the body, making it imperative to stay hydrated when taking psyllium seed husks--otherwise, a blockage may occur. Take one tablespoon in an 8-ounce glass of water once a day, building up to three doses per day for an optimal effect.

Bulk laxatives serve a dual purpose in the body: first, and most notably, they help to move waste; second, they help to restore a normal balance of bacteria in the intestinal tract, enabling more waste reduction.

Psyllium is available in powder form or can be purchased in bulk in seed form at health food stores. It also comes in capsules that are sold in pharmacies and supplement stores.

Diarrhea

While it may seem contraindicated, psyllium is often used to treat diarrhea. The same bulking action that benefits the body when it is plagued with constipation can help to ease the symptoms of diarrhea. Take a psyllium seed husk product at the first sign of diarrhea for relief of symptoms. Follow dosing instructions on the package.

Hemorrhoids

Psyllium seed husks also have benefits when it comes to treating hemorrhoids. Psyllium can be a powerful ally in the fight against hemorrhoids because it helps to make the stool flow more smoothly out of the body with less resistance. Take 3 grams daily for relief and and to help flush out the gastrointestinal system. Follow dosing instructions carefully. The above dose is for a product such as a bulk laxative.

Weight Loss

Psyllium has shown promise as an effective tool in weight loss. It can help to curb an appetite that is overboard and fill up the stomach prior to a meal. Take between 1 to 2 tablespoons mixed in 8 ounces of water right before meals; take no more than 6 tablespoons per day. Make sure to drink plenty of water with the psyllium to prevent a blockage of the digestive tract. The psyllium acts like a sponge in your stomach and intestines, creating a full feeling. In addition, diets that include high amounts of fiber can reduce the amount of calories that are digested.