There are several alternative treatments and therapies like acupuncture, homeopathy and mediation which do not belong directly to medical science, but are gaining a lot of popularity. Unfortunately, not much research and evaluation has been carried out on these types of alternative treatments, because the process is also not easy.

Alternative treatments that become popular are often not the most interesting prospects. In botanical medicine, for example, there is research showing the benefit of herbal products such as ginkgo for improving dementia due to circulation problems; benign prostatic hypertrophy with saw palmetto preparations; and arthritis pain with extracts of the hot chili pepper (capsicum).

Acupuncture involves the study of the body with a concentration on its centers and meridians. The points of the body which control various organs and the bodily system are the subjects of study. In acupuncture, pressure is used on these points of the body. This is done by inserting fine steel needles into the points, and then maneuvering them to get the desired effect.

The diagnosis and treatment in acupuncture has its basis on the fact that the ear is the main center of the bodily organs. Let us take an example. If a patient has a liver problem, then the needle is stuck at a certain point on the ear, which directly corresponds to the liver.

Risks and benefits of Acupuncture It is a treatment based on traditional Chinese medicine, also known as TCM. It has been difficult for traditional medicine to understand the importance of the “acupuncture points” and hence the treatment is still controversial. Yin and yang are the two inseparable and opposing forces of the body which are harmoniously balanced. Yin implies the cold and slow principle, whereas yang’s principles are just the opposite, as they represent the heat, excitement and activity of the body.

When these forces experience an imbalance, the body is attacked by disease. This is the belief of the Chinese and that is why they use acupuncture at the meridians, so that the forces can be corrected and energy can flow again regularly.

The process of acupuncture has not been found painful by its patients. Sometimes there may be a slight irritability when the needle is inserted, especially when it is in a sensitive part of the body.

The benefits of acupuncture should be compared to its risks. When undergoing a treatment of acupuncture, its therapeutic treatment may even be life-saving, and if that is the case, people are ready to take risks. On the other hand, if it does not reap any benefits, patients are not willing to take the smallest risk in the form of treatment.

Before undergoing any acupuncture treatment your family doctor should be informed about it. Also the acupuncturist should be kept informed about any medical treatment that you are undergoing. There are several factors which can make the situation worse when you are undergoing treatment. First of all it depends on how experienced the acupuncturist is, and then how sensitive you are to the treatment and lastly, the gravity of your problem.

Studies suggest that there are a number of conditions which acupuncture can help to treat, including post-operative pain , migraines , and nausea . More high-quality research is needed into the effectiveness of acupuncture on other conditions.

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All in all acupuncture is a fantastic healing art which has been used for hundreds of years.Acupuncture produces a more generalized or extra segmental analgesia. These effects, combined with local needling of painful trigger points in taut muscle bands, result in exceptional relief of pain.

The number of treatments required depends on the nature of the illness, its duration, and how the person responds to acupuncture.Treatments are generally weekly at first, gradually reducing as the condition improves.Treatment involves using needles in specific acupuncture points (often in combination with herbal therapy) to achieve this balance.

Acupuncture is not only for treating illnesses, it is also a preventive measure . It can be used to prevent disharmony, which causes the illness, from developing. If everything in the human body is balanced, then no illness shall occur. For example, a troubled or over-worked brain may damage the spleen, which could lead to Q1 deficiency. Naturally, the deficiency of one component, shall result to an overall imbalance.

Acupuncture is based on the Chinese belief that the human body is controlled by a life force known as Qi (pronounced ‘chee’). Qi flows through the body in channels, known as meridians. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical art, aimed at maintaining a proper balance in the body?s functions. Illness is caused by an imbalance of Yin and Yang, the positive and negative forces of expansion and contraction.

What acupuncture can cure

A very good use for acupuncture is in the prevention of diseases as it is usually possible to detect imbalances that cause illnesses in the body. Early medical check up. is therefore recommended. Acupuncture is a safe form of treatment for all illnesses. Worried about taking medicine while pregnant? Acupuncture has been safely used in pregnancy management and for the relief of pain during childbirth. If you suffer from migraine, even ordinary headache, depression or irritable bowel movement, the acupuncture could be the relief-provider you’ve been waiting for.

The Chinese people have used this therapy for illnesses and stress related conditions. The Acupuncturist will place small needles at different energy points around your body to help release energy blocks in your energy system to stimulate a body and to help the self-recovery.

There are over two thousand identified acupuncture points where the needles maybe inserted. These points are along the Qi pathways or meridians. The human body has fourteen pathways or meridians on which Qi, the body’s energy or life force should flow smoothly. Illness occurs if Qi can not flow freely due to blocks in the meridian. The insertion of the needles are said to remove whatever blocks the smooth flow of Qi . The body is then stimulated by the renewed release in Qi or energy, and recovers by itself.

What you gonna need:

•  Acne (Obviously)
• Stuff from your local grocerie or store

First Step: Acne is a group of skin rashes that have different causes. It is an inflammatory skin disease that affects the skin’s oil glands.

Acne is the most common skin disease. Nearly 17 million people in the United States have it.

Most pimples are found on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne is not a serious health threat but, it can cause scars.

There are many types of pimples such as: Whiteheads (stay under the surface of the skin), Blackheads (rise to the skin’s surface and look black), Papules (small pink bumps), Pustules (red with pus on top), Nodules (large, painful, deep in the skin), Cysts (deep, painful, can cause scars.

Second Step: Here are some ways of reducing, or clearing up acne..

• Cook oatmeal and apply on face for fifteen minutes, then wash.
• Make a warm bath with blanch of nettle and rosemary to reduce the acne.
• Apply equal amount of lemon juice and rose water with a cotton ball, leave for half an hour and wash. Repeat for 15-20 days.
• Rub the acne with garlic cloves several times a day.
• Wash face with avocado paste mixed with water.
• Saturate lettuce leaves in water, use water to rinse face and acne.
• Boil some water in a pan and add some apple cider vinegar. Cool, put a towel on your head and bend over the pan.

The herbs like Cleavers, Echinacea, Burdock, and Butternut are mixed with 5 ml of tincture and applied three times a day fetches good results for the chronic sufferers of the acne.

Third Step: Benzoyl peroxide is the best medication used to treat acne as it is very effective in drying out the infected area. Moreover this is easily available without any prescription (Over-the-counter shops). It is available in different trade names and is available in two concentration- 5% and 10%. It is available either as lotion or gel.

Initially 2.5% lotion or gel can be used once daily for a week. If there is no irritation in your skin, you can prefer to go for even 10% gel twice daily. It completely reduces the oil and bacteria within the spore. The effect is noticed within 6-8 weeks.

If you experience any scarring or irritation after using this product, immediately seek an appointment with an experienced dermatologist.

Too much stress can often be attributed to a feeling of being overwhelmed from the combination of work, home, family responsibilities and societal pressures.

While it is neither possible nor advisable to eliminate stress completely, since in some instances stress is useful in helping to increase performance or to use caution in the face of danger. It is necessary however for each person to find their ideal stress level. In order to do so, one can use manipulation or maneuvers to avoid excessively stressful situations by eliminating stressors and changing how they react to stressful events. Arranging stress and changing the reaction can manipulate stress to use the benefits and avoid or lessen the harmful effects.

It may not seem possible to arrange stressful situations since these types of situations most often occur unexpectedly. There are however many different situations that are perceived as stressful. In these instances one can plan around these and avoid altogether or lessen the effects of stress. Too much stress can often be attributed to a feeling of being overwhelmed from the combination of work, home, family responsibilities and societal pressures. All too often there are too many things that need to be done at the same time. If there is a plan in place for how to handle problems that may arise they can be contained or controlled before getting out of hand. Often things can be rescheduled or postponed in order to avoid having more than one or two stressful events happening at or around the same time. If one is feeling anxious about a particular event or situation and it can be avoided in any way then it should be. Of course there will always be situations that will arise that are unexpected or beyond control, however if current events are being managed and level of stress kept low they will not have the impact that they otherwise might have had.

Since there will always be unexpected situations or times where the environment is stressful arrangement and planning does not always work. During these times and in preparation for such events or situations stress can be handled by making changes to how to react. The first way to do so is by having a positive attitude. Everyone feels down from time to time but by being aware of this and accepting it the affects may not be as bad. Also by telling oneself that some stress is natural and helpful and that other stressors are necessary it makes it easier to deal with. It may be helpful to discuss stressful situations or events with others, like friends and family

members. It is often said that two heads are better than one so if a group discusses their particular stressors or situations that leave them feeling distressed they can collaborate. It is also good to involve the whole family in day-to-day responsibilities and to clearly designate who does what and prioritize so that everyone is aware of what is expected of them. Set up a schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Effective time management and realistic time limits can eliminate a lot of stress. It is also extremely important to make time for yourself to relax or do whatever it is that makes you happy.

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Some of the most common early warning signs of excess stress are chronic fatigue, excessive irritability or moodiness, amplified or disproportionate anxiety, poor emotional control, noticeable changes in appetite, sleep patterns or sex drive, insomnia, critical feelings of dependency or helplessness and withdrawal from normal activity or responsibility.

Many people have come to accept stress as an everyday part of life and do little to cope with too much of it. Some stress is actually a good thing as it helps to be active and productive. Too much stress however is detrimental to the body, mind and spirit. Recognizing the signals of stress and stress related problems could reduce the damage that

stress can cause. It can be difficult to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress, as they are diverse and varied among individuals. So all symptoms of excessive stress may not be easily observed but those that are can also help to identify stressors and then recognize the other symptoms. An individual may possess one or more of several symptoms of stress. There are some common early warning signs, which if one recognizes early enough is able to combat the negative effects of stress and help prevent further harm.

Some of the most common early warning signs of excess stress are chronic fatigue, excessive irritability or moodiness, amplified or disproportionate anxiety, poor emotional control, noticeable changes in appetite, sleep patterns or sex drive, insomnia, critical feelings of dependency or helplessness and withdrawal from normal activity or responsibility. One may even verbally express signs of stress by making comments or talking about not being able to relax, feeling tense, and inability to focus or stay on task They may verbalize that they don’t feel good, right or are miserable and don’t know why.

If you pay close attention you may notice that you feel extremely fatigued, the TV may sound like it is blaring, a door being shut sounds like it was slammed. One may argue or yell at those around them for seemingly no or petty reasons. These are indicators that stress has reached a critical level and needs to be dealt with.

While it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress it is of equal importance to be prepared for situations or events that are potentially stressful. Undergoing or anticipating major changes to ones life such as a move, change in jobs such as a promotion, new job or retirement or family status such as marriage, adoption or pregnancy. If undergoing a major change in one aspect of your life it may be advisable to limit or avoid changes in other aspects. Sometimes people feel stressed at certain times of the day or even of the year due to work or other pressures such as family obligations. For some it is the holidays, for others it is the summer or upcoming birthdays or anniversaries.

A good way to monitor stress level or to prepare is to write things down. You may want to try keeping a daily log of events and reactions or even just taking a few moments a day to jot down your feelings or emotions. It is also helpful to write things down such as appointments, to do lists, meal plans, and upcoming events instead of relying on memory as this can cause mental anguish and undue stress.

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Getting adequate, not too much, or too little sleep can do wonders for the body and mind Often just going to bed a half hour earlier at night or taking a short nap during the day can reenergize the body and recharge the mind enough to make clear, thoughtful decisions and to relieve anxiety and worry.

There are several ways to command or manage physical and psychological well -being. A basic exercise program will help to increase and improve the ability to manage stress. While it may be difficult to begin exercising regularly, exercise is one of the most effective methods of stress relief. By stretching and flexing the muscles in the neck, back, shoulders, arms and abdomen the chance that these muscles will tighten and remain tight causing discomfort are

lessened. Exercises that improve cardiovascular function benefit the heart and lungs and affect the blood. This causes chemical changes in the body and the release of and balance of hormones that improve overall mood. Starting and sticking with a regular exercise plan also encourages a healthy concept of self, giving one a better outlook on things and a line of defense against stressors. There are also relaxation techniques, or exercises that are extremely helpful in managing and reducing stress. One such technique is trying to touch the shoulder to the ears. Hold for a few seconds and then let the shoulders drop. Rotate one shoulder toward the rear and then the other, do each shoulder up to ten times and then do both shoulders together. Another exercise that is good for relaxing and good for the body is to lie down with knees bent, press the back down so that all parts of the back touch the surface, while doing so pull in hard on the stomach muscles. Then just relax them. This helps to let go of tension as well as firm abdominal muscles and strengthens the back. Many people find specific exercise programs such as Pilates, tai chi and yoga to be very relaxing.

Getting adequate, not too much, or too little sleep can do wonders for the body and mind Often just going to bed a half hour earlier at night or taking a short nap during the day can reenergize the body and recharge the mind enough to make clear, thoughtful decisions and to relieve anxiety and worry. If a nap is not possible make sure you take time to relax or take a break. Even a fifteen-minute break from work, school, or regular daily activities is advisable for quiet, privacy and introspection. Taking a brisk walk or even just going outside or to another room, the change in scenery can eliminate existing stress or to counter it before it gets to be too much. It is also necessary to eat properly. Eat an adequate and nutritious breakfast each day. Hunger cannot only leave you less able to cope with stress but can also be considered a stressor in itself. It is also important to make sure to eat a well balanced diet for optimal health. Avoiding or reducing the consumption of caffeine containing substances is a simple and effective way to reduce tension and stress. Caffeine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system in a similar fashion as stress as do other substances like alcohol and tobacco that people often use as a means of reducing stress.

While everyone experiences stress at some time or another and there are common symptoms and causes, the reaction can be very different from person to person as are the causes of stress.

Everyone gets stressed from time to time. Stress is actually a normal function of the body. Under certain conditions stress can be helpful. Problems arise when we become overstressed and can’t get over it. Considering that up to one in four people suffer from the adverse health affects that stress can cause and it is estimated that possibly anywhere from seventy to ninety percent of adult visits to doctors are due to stress related complaints costing an estimated 300 billion dollars annually to American industry it would be most beneficial to everyone to take a natural approach to stress management.

While everyone experiences stress at some time or another and there are common symptoms and causes, the reaction can be very different from person to person as are the causes of stress. What causes one person to be highly stressed may not bother another in the least. When we are anxious, hurried, worried or feel threatened our bodies begin to tense up. Constant worry or mental anguish causes constant tension, or stress and begins to take a toll on the body, mind and emotions. This may result in anger, depression, fatigue, physical pain, irritability and many other unpleasant and undesirable reactions. If one can identify what it is that causes them to be in this state then stress can be effectively managed and controlled. While causes and reactions to stress are varied, there are several common approaches that can be taken that can work for everyone. By taking a natural approach and making certain changes one may even be able to avoid most types of stress altogether or at least reduce the frequency and severity of the outcome.

There are several steps that can be taken to help reduce and/or manage stress. One way is to plan ahead. While it is true that we cannot plan or prepare for everything there are things we can do to be more prepared. Plan to arrive early for appointments, meetings, etc. this way if anything does come up you will have some extra time and can avoid the harried feeling one gets when being rushed or worrying about arriving late. Make sure that you have enough gas in your car, enough change for the bus, enough of the basic supplies at home such as food staples, have extra keys made for those times when they get misplaced. Some of these things go along with being prepared. Getting things ready ahead of time, such as preparing a lunch the day before, picking out work and school clothes, also be prepared to wait. Take along a book or magazine to read when waiting in line, waiting for an opening, etc. Get organized. Create a place for everything at home and at your workplace. Put things away when you are finished with them so that you know where they are. Learn to say no and to delegate responsibilities and chores when possible. Taking on too much will surely lead to stress. By making these simple adjustments you are taking a natural approach to stress management.

Acute stress is the body’s reaction to an immediate threat, whether it be real or perceived. This reaction is often referred to as the fight or flight response. Stressors such as physical or emotional trauma, or environmental factors such as noise, light and crowds can cause acute stress.

Many people think of stress as outside forces or experiences. In actuality, stress is the body’s way of reacting to some type of change that calls for acknowledgement or correction. The body reacts to these changes with physical, mental and emotional responses. The human body can adequately experience stress and react to it. Stress can be a positive thing, however too much stress or prolonged stress has negative effects on the body.

Acute stress is the body’s reaction to an immediate threat, whether it be real or perceived. This reaction is often referred to as the fight or flight response. Stressors such as physical or emotional trauma, or environmental factors such as noise, light and crowds can cause acute stress. These and other stressors activate the part of the brain called the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis. This triggers the production and release of steroid hormones, particularly the primary stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol increases blood pressure so the body is prepared to confront or flee a threat due to the increased blood flow to the outer extremities. The hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis also activates the release of certain neurotransmitters called catecholamines, adrenaline in particular to aid in the response. If stress continues without any relief the body can and will react in a negative way. This distress may lead to symptoms such as headache, upset stomach, chest pain, and problems sleeping. Stress may not only contribute to existing symptoms or diseases but can possibly cause them. This type of stress that continues without any relief is called chronic stress. While the release of certain hormones is helpful to the body on a short-term basis, it is important for the levels to return to normal after the perceived threat or stress has abated to restore homeostasis. The stress hormone Cortisol increases blood pressure, blood sugar and is an immunosuppressive, short term these can be helpful but over a period of time can cause physical harm. Increased levels of cortisol affect the immune, digestive and nervous system. The change in neurotransmitters and hormones also affects heart function, hormone balance and brain activity.

Symptoms of chronic stress are visible after a period of time. They are not always recognized as symptoms of stress though, since stress manifests itself in many different ways and varies from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms of stress include general aches and pains, headaches, muscle ache, indigestion, changes in eating or sleeping habits, fatigue, and sexual difficulties. Many people often try to combat these symptoms or control their

stress by smoking, drinking, or eating unhealthy foods causing further damage to the body. All of these factors may cause increased susceptibility to illness and infection. The onset of many conditions and diseases including, but not limited to depression, insomnia, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, ulcers and even some types of cancers have been linked to stress. There is evidence to suggest that somewhere between 70-90% of all doctor visits are due to stress related ailments or stress related complaints.

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Stress can cause physical symptoms as well. Headaches, muscle aches, fatigue and digestive problems can often be attributed to stress.

At one point in life or another almost everyone becomes overwhelmed or has difficulty with stress. Everyday challenges of life, work, family and home responsibilities can often become overwhelming and lead to stress. The impact of stress can be seen in a myriad of ways. There are some short-term positive affects related to one type of stress that can help us to finish a project, meet an important deadline or to compete or perform physical activity. Most stress however has a negative impact and manifests itself in several ways affecting overall health of both the mind and body.

Often times daily pressures or worries mount and lead to changes in thoughts or behaviors that may not be immediately recognized as stress related. One may become short tempered or irritable and argue with a spouse, children or co-workers. Feelings of anxiety or depression may make it difficult for one to get up and have the energy or motivation to function in daily activities. Stress can cause physical symptoms as well. Headaches, muscle aches, fatigue and digestive problems can often be attributed to stress. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stress and to take action to prevent long-term damage from the affects of stress on physical and mental health.

There are several things that one can do for oneself. Just as stress can affect both the mind and body, the mind and body can work together to overcome and prevent damage from stress. There are many easy, safe, natural and effective ways to do just that.

The first thing to do is just breathe. Taking slow, deep breaths of fresh air helps relax the body and clear the mind. Take a walk outside, find a quiet spot and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while taking in deep cleansing breaths of fresh air. Take a few moments of silence, turn off the TV, radio, computer, phones for a few minutes every day, these noises, sounds and bad news that are received can be a source of stress, taking a break from them can help to relieve it. Calm the mind, or meditate. Sit in a comfortable position, eyes closed and take deep breaths, paying attention to the natural rise and fall of the chest and the number of breaths. Sleep. If one does not get enough sleep and the body and mind are not well rested it is difficult to cope with stressful situations. Go to bed a little earlier. Take a short nap. Exercise. Regular exercise helps to dissipate stress by ridding the body of the excess energy caused by stress. Practice muscle relaxation. This can be achieved by focusing on one or a set of muscles in different parts of the body and tensing them up and releasing. Try a change in attitude. Look at problems as a means of opportunity, be the source of the solution. Don’t forget humor, it has been said often and by many that laughter is the best medicine. These are just a few of the quick and easy things one can do to naturally reduce stress.

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Basic Components of Holistic Health.

Holistic is a term that emphasizes the functional relationship between the whole and its parts.

Ideally holistic health is the realization of our potential as humans as total beings, and our desire to live fulfilling and satisfying lives. The overall goal is not just to be physically healthy but also to be in harmony with oneself and the environment at all levels, body, mind and spirit. Relationships, social interaction and lifestyle are also factors that are considered when dealing with a holistic approach. Managing, or eliminating stress is a basic component of holistic health.

Holistic is a term that emphasizes the functional relationship between the whole and its parts. Holistic health, or holistic medicine attempts to treat the whole self, including mind and body. Holistic medicine is not a new concept or theory. In fact holistic health is more of a philosophy that has been in existence for thousands of years. Holistic medicine however is new to western medicine and our health care system. When holistic medicine is applied into traditional health care, the approach to therapy takes on a whole new dimension. Patients roles are changed in that they become more involved in their treatment by being made aware of their condition and how their thoughts, behaviors and attitudes are attributed to the situation and they are taught how by making changes they can be actively involved in their own healing process.

There are several terms that are often used in conjunction with, or are associated with holistic medicine. Alternative medicine, complementary medicine, and natural healing are probably the most common. Alternative medicine is a term used by both medical professionals and the general public to describe medical techniques or procedures that are not generally recognized or accepted by traditional or conventional practitioners. These techniques include non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical methods as well as experimental drugs or therapies that are not in general use or as of yet widely accepted as means of effective treatment. The attitudes about alternative medicine are changing and in recent years many of the practices have become widely accepted so much so that a few are now actually considered conventional. Complementary medicine is usually a term used by conventional or traditional medical practitioners to describe non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical practices that are used in conjunction with or to compliment surgery and prescription or over the counter drugs.

The implication is that these practices are the primary tools used in the healing or treatment process and that the unconventional techniques are just used as a backup or supplement as needed. Natural healing refers to non-invasive techniques as well but does not usually involve the use of any drugs or supplements of any kind. Natural healing is usually a reference to physical healing or bodywork only.

There is a wide variety of natural, alternative, or complementary practices that are used to attain holistic health. Some of these practices include aromatherapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, naturopathy, medicinal herbs, Reiki, Tai chi, and yoga. Stress reduction is a fundamental principal of holistic health. The reduction of stress is believed to allow the body’s natural healing abilities to go to work.

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