Archive for the ‘Holistic Health’ Category
Stress and anxiety cause similar biochemical effects on the body due to the hormonal stress response. The activity of the hormones, adrenalin and cortisol, are released in excess when a person is stressed or anxious and this affects the body’s natural sleep patterns (circadian rhythm). These stress hormones cause a state of hyperexcitability, which may also be seen as irritability, restlessness, fear, depression or anger and sensitivity to stimuli like bright light, loud noise or strong odors.
A persistent itching sensation within the ear canal is often a sign of inflammation or infection within the ear canal. Excessive cleaning, especially with an ear bud (cue tip) removes the natural wax from the ear canal. This wax is often thought to be dirt but is actually the body’s natural mechanism for lubricating the ear canal and preventing insects or microorganisms from entering the ear canal or causing an infection.
Dandruff is a common condition caused by a combination of factors that affect the skin of the head (scalp). Most commonly, chronic dandruff is due to dry skin on the scalp complicated by a fungal infection (tinea capitis or head fungus). Before treating dandruff, it is important to exclude other skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis or contact dermatitis (often associated with hair dyes, styling gel, hair softeners, hair relaxers and shampoos). These skin diseases may often present similar to dandruff but require specialist dermatological treatment.
A teething baby can be frustrating for many parents as the incessant crying, gnawing on objects and late night fevers and restlessness are a constant disruption. Teething is a natural part of baby’s development and between the year one and 3 years of age, the emerging milk teeth will result in many instances of sleepless nights and bitten fingers.
Identifying the signs of teething even before the tiny ‘buds’ are clearly visible will allow you to take appropriate action to ease the infant’s pain and discomfort.
Mary T., 6 years old, had been brought in by her mother complaining of recurrent itchy skin rashes at her elbows and knees. Mary’s case history revealed that she had suffered with infantile eczema at the age of 6 months and this persisted till 2½ years of age when a mild case of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) began. Repeated prescriptions of corticosteroid creams, emollients and anti-histamines had offered some relief for her early episode of eczema but it had seemed to have resolved spontaneously at the time.
An immune modulator should not be confused with an immune booster. Immune modulators regulate functioning of the immune system, maintaining a healthy level and preventing disordered immune activities. In chronic cases of allergy related conditions, autoimmune disorders and HIV infection, an immune modulator can be beneficial as part of a holistic therapy.
A homeopathic anti-inflammatory may be useful for mild pain, joint swelling and inflammation and muscle cramps. Always consult with your medical doctor before starting any anti-inflammatory including herbal or homeopathic remedies.
In most itchy skin conditions or acute rashes, an anti-histamine or corticosteroid is prescribed for oral use. Anti-histamines can cause drowsiness which may not be practical during working hours and prolonged use of oral corticosteroids can have a host of side effects. Both are contraindicated in pregnant women although they may be used in severe cases.
This formula may also be effective in treating other allergic conditions including hay fever or post nasal drip depending on the severity of your allergy.