Category — Herbs

This is the time to boost your immunity to help ward off the colds and flu that circulate in the wintertime. It’s especially important to boost our immune system in times of worry and hardship as these emotions drain our strength and make us vulnerable to illness.

The first support to boosting immunity is nourishing food that also promotes elimination.  Onions are a good food for the heart and circulation. They help reduce cholesterol. They act against all types of infections. Cabbage can help you to cope with stress, anemia, fatigue and infections and are also good for your digestive tract. Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins A and C. It also provides iron, calcium and potassium. It is a good tonic and fights fatigue and stress. Brown rice has a gentle and soothing effect on the digestive system and can lower blood pressure and provides B vitamins (we lose them during stressful times), fiber, iron, potassium and protein. These are not expensive foods to have regularly.

Herbs can help bolster your immune system. Virtually all herbs are a wonderful source of vitamins and minerals. Many have hormonal and antibiotic action. Garlic, echinacea, cayenne pepper, yellow dock root, and Oregon grape root will all support your immunity and help you ward off the colds and flu of the winter season.

Negative moods are proven to reduce the number of antibodies produced in the body. Improve your mood and improve your immune response. You can lighten your negative vibrations by a brisk walk, deep breathing, laughter, listening to relaxing music, visualizing peaceful scenes, meditation, prayer, loving and grateful thoughts, reflexology or massage. These activities bring renewed peace and hope- and bolster your immune response, better enabling you to fight off harmful germs and viruses. It’s not just possible to boost your immune system affordably, it’s imperative!

Penny Waters is a member of the Sandpoint Wellness Council. Penny may be reached at 208/597-4343

Our topic this month focuses on Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS). Several of the Sandpoint Wellness Council members treat clients complaining of this condition who have been searching for years for ways to alleviate the very painful and confusing symptoms FMS presents. Oftentimes, patients receive feedback from health care providers that what they are experiencing is “all in their heads” or that they are “hypochondriacs” due to no findings of specific clues leading to their discomfort, or they have experienced a series of diagnoses and treatments that have not proven beneficial for them over time.

Fibromyalgia Syndrome presents as chronic, muscular and joint pain that causes widespread body achiness with tenderness at various points on the body. This achiness tends to move around and therefore becomes hard to pinpoint sometimes reflecting a burning sensation and/or a tingling sensation. They may also complain of loss of sleep, low energy, stiffness following rest times, or a lack of feeling rested after a night’s sleep. It is often greatly debilitating. Mostly FMS causes a general all over body ache and constant pain and discomfort—a condition that affects one’s overall well being and ability to function fully.

In researching my resources (listed below) FMS symptoms often overlap other disorders such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), Sleep Disorder, and/or TMJ dysfunction (if pain first shows up in the jaw area). This is why FMS is so hard to pin down for the medical community.

The most important therapeutic direction focuses on the management of FMS and on learning all one can about what is being experienced—paying attention to body signals, timing, and when it is weak or strong.

Joseph Pizzorno, Ph.D and Michael Murray in their Textbook of Natural Medicine, pages 1672-3, discuss the findings of several research hypotheses, one centered on low serotonin levels on sleep deprived individuals that can lead to a heightened sense of pain. The research findings did not really pan out for them on this point as serotonin is a vasoconstrictor and would therefore restrict blood flow. They found a more important approach focused on hypothyroidism, whereby there exists a “particular cellular resistance to thyroid hormone or other metabolism-impeding factors.” These factors are such things as poor diet, “nutritional deficiencies, low physical fitness, and metabolism-impeding drugs.” The authors go on to report that “cellular resistance to thyroid hormone is the underlying mechanism of two main features of FMS: chronic widespread pain and abnormal tenderness.” This condition, inadequate thyroid hormone regulation (ITHR) causes impairment to two mechanisms in the body. In the first mechanism ITHR tends to increase the release of Substance P which affects the body by increasing the sensations of pain. Thyroid treatment oftentimes proves effective in lowering Substance P and therefore reduces pain in FMS patients. The second mechanism is the reduction of the synthesis and secretion of norepinephrine (NE). “Adequate NE is essential to normal function” of neurotransmission from the central nervous system mechanisms and is dependent also on the secretion of serotonin, which in turn stimulates the release of opiates, which in turn has the effect of lowering pain sensations.

This chemistry can be oh so confusing to us, but even such brief information, I believe, enables those suffering from Fibromyalgia Syndrome to begin to ask pertinent questions of their care providers. Seeking appropriate tests and gathering scientific data from many sources will help in finding better pathways toward management and overall comfort.

Resource:

Pizzorno, Joseph and Michael Murray. Textbook of Natural Medicine. Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, St. Louis. 2006.

Members of the Sandpoint Wellness Council offer several methods from their experiences that often prove effective in supporting their FMS clients and initiating more comfort.

Krystle Shapiro, BA, LMT, CDT, Reiki, Touchstone Massage Therapies, 208/290-6760

For many people who live with chronic pain, the idea of being touched may not be welcomed. During times of lower pain and discomfort, seeking massage therapy may be just what is needed. FMS sufferers have many irritating chemicals running through their bodies and may be hypersensitive. Massage therapy, however, provides many benefits: it is effective in reducing pain, anxiety, depression, and improves sleep patterns. Massage has a gentle detoxification effect to help rid the body of some of those unwanted or overproduced chemicals. Human touch provides a warm as well as a nurturing sensation that stimulates all of our good brain chemistry, which in turn supports all our bodily systems. With detoxification, such as with Manual Lymph Drainage Massage, the body benefits from ridding itself of accumulated wastes, and then it has clearer pathways for good nutritional ingredients to reach the cells. As the article above references, a good nutritious diet, regular exercise, restful sleep, and appropriate medications lead to reduced symptoms and painful experiences of FMS.

Penny Waters, Herbology and Reflexology, Relaxation Destination, 208/597-4343

Handling Fibromyalgia With the Touch of Reflexology and Herbs

Whether it was your nervous system, an overloaded immune system, a virus, a hormonal and/or emotional breakdown, or too much prolonged stress, your body has changed and you may have fibromyalgia.

Reflexology will stimulate the internal organs and glands, nervous system, muscular system and immune system when pressure is applied to the reflexes in the feet. This promotes a healing response in the body reducing tension, congestion, inflammation, and easing the symptoms of fibromyalgia- aches and pains, constipation or diarrhea, mucus conditions, and fatigue. It is extremely relaxing to the nervous system and clients usually report sleeping more deeply for several nights after one reflexology session.

Herbs are enormously supportive for providing relief. A formula will include herbs to strengthen the nervous system. Herbs which reduce inflammation and cleanse the toxic elements in the blood and liver will be included to reduce sore muscles and aches in the body. In particular herbs for the colon and lungs will be considered.

There’s no doubt that other lifestyle changes need to be made. Healthy, alkaline, nutritious food must replace empty fast foods; rest and time out from stress must be sought. Change can be difficult, so I make it as easy as possible. I provide a ‘super foods’ list and have a cookbook to make this easy. I also advocate the use of music, aroma, visualization, and uplifting reading for ways to balance our entire body, mind and spirit, and I provide ideas for these too. You don’t have time? Your body will make you sick enough until you have no choice!

If we listen to our bodies, they tell us what we need to do to get well. Yes, they are telling us to change our jobs, change our careers, or ask for counseling to deal with emotional situations. The journey to wellness is a journey of self-help, self-discovery, and self-actualization. It can be the most rewarding journey you will ever take.

Owen Marcus, MA, CAR, Rolfing, 208/265-8440

Fibromyalgia and Rolfing – releasing stress heals fibromyalgia

Do you have on going, non-specific pain? Is this pain worse when you are tired or stressed? If you answered yes, you may be suffering from fibromyalgia. I wrote a post on fibromyalgia for my www.StressedOut.org blog explaining fibromyalgia and its relationship to stress. This post is the most read post on that blog. When you put stress and fibromyalgia in Google, this post comes up as the fourth search result. Fibromyalgia is a hot topic.

For years, I have told my clients that as a culture we live on the fibromyalgia continuum. Virtually everyone is at least developing some of the symptoms. The subclinical symptoms may only show up sporadically when we have pushed ourselves for several days.

Chronic sufferers of fibromyalgia just didn’t suddenly catch the illness. Fibromyalgia comes from our bodies being progressively run down. Years of stress, working hard, and not getting enough rest and good nutrition are some ways the body can manifest the exhaustion which develop into fibromyalgia.

Exhausted and hyper

What is interesting from a clinical prospective is all the diagnosed fibromyalgia sufferers I have seen in my practice are wired and exhausted. Most often, their soft tissue is lacking life or as an oriental medical doc would say, low chi. Their deeper soft tissue is tense and fibrous. Many of these clients are committed to getting well and have seen many other good practitioners without getting well. These docs and healthcare providers along with the clients can’t understand why they are still sick.

Much like with depression and chronic fatigue that are closely related to fibromyalgia, fibromyalgia clients need to release the deep chronic tension to get well. That deeper layer of soft tissue needs to come back to life. It is as if that layer is blocking the chi and blood circulation from reaching vital organs and the more superficial levels.

The power of Rolfing

Over the 30 years I have treated people, I have received many referrals from others who normally get great results, but were not getting them for these clients. We all learned that without these deep layers releasing it is as if the other work such as homeopathy and clinical nutrition can’t get into the tissue. Once the stress, exhaustion and tension releases, all the therapies that once were not working start to work better than the norm. These clients often prove to be some of the most successful cases for other practitioners. Rolfing can free the body to allow other therapies to support deep healing and rejuvenation.

Fibromyalgia is not a disease

I find fibromyalgia with the correct therapies combination “curable.” As I mentioned in the post on Stressed Out.org, the medical profession fails to recognize fibromyalgia as a real problem because they believe they have a drug for it. As you read up on this drug, you read that the drug company is not promising a cure, just a mitigation of symptoms.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that developed because the body became run down – not because of an illness that was contracted from being exposed to a pathogen. To get well you don’t treat the problem, you treat the cause. Once the cause shifts, the problem disappears. Rolfing releases the tension and teaches the body not to recreate it.

From my experience, if a person truly wants to get well from fibromyalgia and is willing to step outside the presently considered treatment box – they will get well. The road back to wellness will take a while. It will require commitment and a willingness to feel and express old emotions. There will be times when the person will feel worse – more exhausted and more depressed and possibly experience more short term pain. By hanging in there – you will get well.

Ilani Kopiecki, CMT, IET, CranioSacral and Integrated Massage,

208/610-2005

Approaching Fibromyalgia with CranioSacral Therapy

With the heat and inflammation of fibromyalgia, tissues can be chronically tight and painful. CranioSacral Therapy can help fibromyalgia by gently and effectively releasing tight, sore muscles and joints so that oxygen can enter those areas and enhance healing. CranioSacral Therapy also addresses areas of the body that have been holding due to chronic pain, such as the neck, lower back and spine. When those areas are relaxed and aligned the whole body can be more flexible and able to move through the day.

Let’s look at the traditional turkey stuffing which contains parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. In Part 1 I discussed the amazing nutritional value of parsley. Let’s look at the other 3 herbs usually found in stuffing.

Sage: Useful for excessive nasal congestion and coughs. It is beneficial for mental exhaustion, improving memory and strengthening the ability to concentrate. Sounds like it will help with the winter cold we often have at holiday time and may help us recover from the stupor of eating a huge meal! It contains vitamins A and C, vitamin B-complex, a lot of calcium and potassium.

Rosemary: It is a strong stimulant for the circulation and a tonic to the heart. Being high in calcium, it’s a powerful remedy to strengthen the nervous system. It is very good for headaches caused by nerves. Sounds perfect for that holiday gathering that brings together all types of family members, some of whom we enjoy more than others.

Thyme: This herb is a powerful antiseptic that helps with intestinal disturbances including worms in the belly (Culpeper). It is reputed to help with colic and gas, too. These are just some of its many uses. It contains B-complex which supports us during stressful times, vitamins C and D.

The English call ‘stuffing’ by a different name. They call it ‘dressing’. Perhaps you do, too, if you have English ancestry. I think that is a more appropriate word as it truly is an adornment to the turkey and the meal. It is not just a filler, a tasty way to stretch the meat to go a little further. It contributes to the health of the meal as well as the flavor; a true adorning accompaniment that we may all appreciate just a little more now we know of its amazing properties. Here’s to your good health and happy eating!

The art of cooking can be the art of herbal healing, too. This is Part 1 of 2 where we look at some standard combinations of food and herbs in traditional English cooking.

• Roast beef and horseradish. Horseradish root (Cochlearia armoracia) has an antibiotic action which is recommended for respiratory and urinary infections. It is a strong stimulant for the system and has been used internally to clear the nasal passages and intestines. It is recommended for digestion, metabolism and kidney function. Sounds like it will help digest and assimilate the nutrients in roast beef while helping to eliminate the unwanted elements in it, too, doesn’t it? If that wasn’t enough, horseradish is rich in vitamins C,B1,sulphur and potassium. It also contains vitamins A, P, B-complex, some calcium, phosphorus, iron and sodium.
• Lamb and mint sauce. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) stimulates the salivary gland and relaxes the stomach while also encouraging peristaltic movement which aids both digestion and elimination. It has is effective as a nerve stimulant and brings oxygen into the blood, which improves all cellular performance. Peppermint contains vitamins A and C. It also contains magnesium, potassium, inositol, niacin, copper, iodine, silicon, iron and sulphur.
• Parsley as a garnish to everything. Have you pushed aside that sprig of parsley decorating the corner of your plate in favor of the mashed potatoes or slice of ham sitting nearby? Well, you may feel differently when you read about the amazing properties of parsley. It is rich in iron, chlorophyll, and vitamins A and C. It is high in vitamin B and potassium. It is so nutritious that it increases resistance to infections and diseases. Parsley increases iron content in the blood. The roots or leaves are recommended for liver and spleen problems and have a tonic effect on the urinary system. It contains some sodium, copper, thiamine and riboflavin. It also contains some silicon, sulphur, calcium and cobalt. Mom was right when she told you to eat your parsley.

Adding herbs to foods on a daily basis will significantly improve your nutrition and wellness because of the constituents and actions of these wonderful gifts from nature. (Remember to always consult your professional health practitioner when considering the use of significant amounts of herbs for specific health reasons.)

Penny Waters BA MH MIIR LE, Your RELAXATION DESTINATION, 208-597-4343

www.CureForTheCommonSpa.com

I recently experienced a Harvest Festival in a small town in Canada. The bountiful produce and the pride in the labor that produced it was evident on long tables decked with 1st place ribbons and on the smiling faces dressed in old-fashioned bonnets to help us relive a time gone by. There were sunflower heads the size of pie plates to zucchinis almost 3 feet long. It made me feel grateful for the industrious nature of people and the plenty that is still available from our land despite any economic or even climatic changes we will inevitably endure.

As we harvest the fruit of our gardens, some of us canning for the first time , we share a thrill and a gratitude at the plenty we can store for later and, perhaps, leaner times. I am once again inspired and grateful for the bounty of herbs which contain ingredients that are helpful only to humans, having no benefit whatsoever for the plant itself. What a gift. I always collect enough herbs to have for my Thanksgiving turkey stuffing and any seasonings I may want for Christmas dinner, too. Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme are a must in the bundle I collect, wash and let dry to later freeze or dry in my herb drier. If the herbs have flowered when I pick them for use another time, they don’t have enough flavor to be dried. I have to freeze them in bundles. Every year I think I will pick them earlier but I am so happy to see them returning in the spring I don’t want to pinch their growth and so, once again, they are flowering before I know it and freezing is the only answer.

Autumn is the time of year herbalists and wild-crafters collect the root of the local herb, Oregon Grape( Berberis aquifolium) and carefully clean, cut into slices and dry the root and store in a dry place for use at a later time. It’s the plant that has leaves that look a little like mistletoe, yellow berries in the spring/summer and the leaves are now turning a lovely warm red. It will help cleanse your liver and gall-bladder which helps everything from chronic, scaly skin, nausea, chronic constipation, and various intestinal and elimination complaints. Autumn is the time of year when all of us can harvest the fruits of our labor and be thankful and made more secure by the bounty of our industrious nature and the natural world around us!

Penny Waters, Herbology and Reflexology, Relaxation Destination, 208/597-4343

Allergies are among one of the most common medical conditions, affecting approximately one out of every five Americans. Common triggers include various grass and tree pollen, such as ragweed and elm, as well as foods or food groups like milk, nuts, or shellfish, and animal dander. Basically, anything the body does not recognize as “self” can become a potential allergen. Simply put, an allergy is an abnormal immune response to an otherwise harmless substance. The body detects a food or pollen exposure as a foreign invader, which triggers an inflammatory reaction. Symptoms range from the irritating but benign nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes to possible skin rashes and hives, to the potentially fatal inflammation and swelling of upper airways.

Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects nearly 3 percent of Americans. Asthma is closely related in nature to the allergic-type response, as it too is a hyper-inflammatory reaction to an otherwise harmless substance or event. Often, people with asthma also suffer from some form of allergies. In asthma, one’s ability to breathe is greatly affected. Typical symptoms include spasm of the bronchi (or airway tubes), swelling of lining of the lungs, and excessive mucous production. Shortness of breath and wheezing are often experienced. The greatest concern is that if not immediately addressed, an asthmatic attack could lead to respiratory failure.

Mario Roxas, ND, 208/946-0984

A Naturopathic Prospective

Allergies and asthma are both conditions that can benefit from various alternative and complementary therapies. From a naturopathic perspective, one of the key considerations is to lower a person’s allergic threshold. This involves not only identifying the triggers and finding ways to reduce the risk of exposure, but also looking at aspects of an individual’s current lifestyle and health that may make them more prone to allergy reactions. If a person is already in a state of higher stress or inflammation, then they are more susceptible to react to other stressors that come their way. For example, habits such as smoking, and/or excess alcohol intake, lower an individual’s ability to handle the additional stressors that seasonal allergens may place on the body. Additionally, poor diet and nutritional deficiencies can play a very significant role in reducing one’s resistance to allergens. Key nutritional supplementation, like omega 3 fatty acids and bioflavonoids, along with certain diet and lifestyle modifications, can help reduce inflammation and strengthen the body’s resistance to stressors, allowing for better management of allergies. To find out more specific things you can do to manage your allergies and asthma, please call Mario Roxas, ND at 208-946-0984 or email at info@drroxas.com and set up a visit.

Owen Marcus, MA Certified Advance Rolfer, www.align.org, 265.8440

A Rolfer’s Perspective

Respiratory disorders, such as allergies and asthma, can actually alter the body’s physical structure. In the case of respiratory difficulty, restricted breathing can create a misshapen rib cage. If breathing is difficult–or even scary–the body will distort around that stress, adapting by creating fascial adhesions or scar tissue. Not taking full breaths creates the restricted structure reinforcing the experience that breathing is difficult.

So how do we reverse this pattern?

First, you free the chronic structural and soft tissue pattern by releasing the chronic tension held in the body. Rolfing was specifically designed to remove the chronic tension held in the body’s soft tissue and can reestablish the subtleness to allow the rib cage to move more freely.

Twenty years ago, I conducted a study on Rolfing with elite runners at Arizona State University. The biggest improvement they collectively experienced was increased vital capacity (the ability to take in more air). Even the world-class runners—including an Olympic marathon runner—experienced breathing improvements. Chronic allergy and asthma sufferers, after decades of breathing restrictions, usually see considerable improvement with Rolfing.

The other key factor with optimal breathing is to learn not to respond to stress in the old tension-producing manner.

When I had a clinic in Scottsdale, AZ, we operated a Mindfulness Stress Reduction program for hospitals and corporations. In the eight-week course, we often had students who experienced breathing problems. After a few weeks of teaching their mind and body to relax in the face of stress, the respiratory symptoms would decline. The core of the course was learning to feel, and then let what was occurring to occur. When we stop resisting our bodies, we stop tensing. For whatever reason, we learned to hold our breath when stressed; when we just let go and breathe, the stress seems to dissipate. When the tension of stress is gone, we breathe naturally.

Penny Waters, Relaxation Destination, 208/597-4343

Herbs and ReflexologyPerspective, Handling Allergies With the Touch of Reflexology and Herbs

Many of you are probably breathing a sigh of relief now that the days of buds in spring and grasses in summer are turning to cooler days of fall and winter. Gone will be the allergens that cause you such discomfort – itchy and runny eyes, sniffles, sore throat, stuffed up sinuses, aching head and so on. Would you like to be free of this yearly misery? Then let’s use the winter months to prepare for spring in such a way that you do not experience your allergies next year.

Without a doubt, the immune system needs to be cleansed and strengthened in order to fight the myriad of external pollutants and irritants that surround us daily that cause our allergic reactions. I recommend some wonderful herbs for this purpose. Foods that congest our system and cause our immune system to work overtime have to be reduced and eliminated, too. Foods that will be good for you are also recommended and help give you replacements for your usual fare. I also use herbs to boost immunity: Herbs that are high in Vitamin C that help flush the kidneys and detoxify the liver all find a place in an herbal formula. Herbs help curb cravings, too, when we give up some of our comfort foods for the sake of our health.

At the core of this program to control allergic reactions is reflexology. A series of reflexology sessions in the fall and then in late winter before spring will ensure success. The body is stimulated to throw off the congestion and toxic accumulation in your blood, organs, and lymphatic system. This will be strongly supported by your food program. You will be amazed at how deeply you can breathe, how clear your head feels, how alive and mobile you are, and how great it feels to experience true wellness.

Don’t wait until spring. Start now and avoid allergy misery and give yourself a health boost that will last a lifetime.

Robin and Layman Mize, Quantum Biofeedback, Certified Biofeedback Specialists, 208/610-9997.

Biofeedback and Allergies

When we hear the term “allergy testing” we most often think of the traditional medical approach, using a “scratch test” or needles to determine allergy stressors or sensitivities.

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Biofeedback Analysis is a phenomenal, scientific method to detect sensitivities using ones’ own muscle strength and the static electricity present in the body. Even children feel comfortable using this accurate, non-invasive and painless method of analysis!

Biofeedback analysis is based on the idea that there is an energy field which flows around and through all things. The Chinese call this energy Qi or Chi (pronounced “Chee”). Like a magnet creates a magnetic field which holds iron filings in a certain pattern, the Chi creates a field which holds the cells of our body in alignment. Theoretically, by altering the Chi, one can alter the body. In biofeedback analysis we use the body’s energy as a gauge to determine the level of stress intolerance to a given substance.

Krystle Shapiro, BA, LMT, CDT, Touchstone Massage Therapies,

208-290-6760

A Medical Massage Therapy Perspective

I find Manual Lymph Drainage Therapy especially helpful for clearing congestion in the sinuses and chest when my clients complain of stuffy heads, runny noses, and difficulty breathing. The lymph system works overtime during spring and summer when so much environmental toxins are present in our air and water. This specialized massage effectively encourages the lymph system to speed up its removal of accumulated toxins and cellular wastes of all kinds. This may increase a runny nose and/or coughing experience, but these reactions are short lived as the wastes are eliminated leaving the allergy/asthma sufferer feeling more clear headed, less achy, “dryer” and more energetic to get on with normal routines.

Clearing the accumulated debris from the immune system in a timely fashion enables it to continue its normal alert, attack, and manage activities that keep us healthy and vibrant. Manual Lymph Drainage is the perfect complement to your fall/winter health regimen.

It is with great pride and excitement I introduce you to The Sandpoint Wellness Council. We are an association of independent complementary wellness practitioners located in Sandpoint dedicated to holistic health care, who together see the value of our synergistic practices, and who have chosen to work diligently together to bring to you relevant and scientifically researched information on health care options. We believe that there is no “one” solution for everyone; rather each person individually has unique needs and concerns, and undertaken in such a perspective, effective remediation of causes of distress and dis-ease can be accomplished.

This year our collective aim is to bring you information about our individual practices and their objectives so that you may make informed decisions about what you want in your personal health care regimen. Complementary health care is about synergy, about working with all ideas for health improvement, prevention, and maintenance of well being. The Sandpoint Wellness Council aims to inform, generate relevant questions, answer those questions, and assist others in finding and understanding current research. Many of our practitioners offer protocols that can effectively provide relief of many common complaints.

Each month we will be presenting a topic and will provide information from several of the participating Sandpoint Wellness Council members. We invite our readers to contact us with questions you would like us to address, and we will provide that information in upcoming issues of The River Journal. Contact information is provided at the end of this article.

Our first topic focuses on Migraine Headaches. According to Ruth Werner in A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology, page 266, 28 million people experience migraines. This leads to not only lost wages but to high medical expenses each year. Women tend to suffer more than men, and causes are varied, from genetic factors, personal lifestyle choices, as well as to environmental influences.

Physiologically, migraines can occur from a narrowing of blood vessels in the brain called vasoconstriction. This increases blood pressure within the vessels. This is then followed by an expansion of the blood vessels called vasodilation. With this expansion comes the intense pain of a migraine headache.

Trying to uncover the causes of migraines remains a prominent topic among many professionals. As we accept the bio-individuality of ourselves, we also recognize that a prescription of “one size fits all” does not always effectively deal with the possible triggers that cause migraines. Ruth Werner suggests many possible triggers, such as magnesium deficiency (which allows for muscle relaxation), “consumption of certain kinds of foods, including red wine, cheese, chocolate, coffee, tea [all our favorite things!], MSG, and alcohol” (266-67). As well, Werner relates that stress and hormonal shifts may also be contributing factors.

As Complementary Health practitioners, we see people with a variety of symptoms, and each of us has learned to address these symptoms within our scopes of practice. Following are the educated and professional protocols The Sandpoint Wellness Council members utilize to bring comfort and relief for the expressions of migraine headaches for our valued clients. Your review of these multifaceted options may provide you insight for what may work for your specific needs.

From Ilani Kopiecki, CMT, Integrated Body Work and CranioSacral Therapy, 208-610-2005:

In CranioSacral Therapy we use several different release techniques to help with migraine headaches. We release the vertebrae in the neck and upper thoracic area to make sure blood flow to the head is running smoothly. We adjust the sacrum and lower back to ensure release throughout the spine. We also release the occiput, temporal, frontal, and parietal bones in the head so that the dural tissue throughout the cranium is open and pliable. Sometimes the jaw and the TMJ areas must be released as well to alleviate pressure in the neck and head. It is also important to counsel the client on diet, lifestyle, and water intake.

From Kristine Battey MSPT, ATC, CSCS, HLC, Divine Health & Fitness, www.divinehf.com, 208-946-7072

Exercise can be an excellent tool for fighting off a migraine and may also help the person to relax when they have a migraine. Light cardiovascular exercise followed by stretching and deep, relaxing breathing can relax the body and the muscles in the neck and shoulders that lead to tension related migraine headaches. The use of a foam roller or therapeutic ball for stretching can help the spinal muscles to relax. During acute migraine, I instruct clients to lie down in a quiet room, close their eyes and do gentle stretches along with relaxing, deep breathing techniques. This may relieve the migraine or at least help it to be more tolerable.

Another important part of preventing migraines is related to the person’s diet. It is important for a migraine sufferer to clear their diet of toxins and eat high quality, nutrient dense food. I assess my clients physiological load which is the sum total of all stressors acting on their body: what they eat, when they eat, stress, sleep, their digestive system, and their detoxification system. I also assess what metabolic type they are and guide them to make quality food choices according to what types of food their particular nutritional type would benefit from most. Eating an organic, whole food diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and quality sources of grass-fed, organic meat are important for optimal health and may help to decrease the incidence or severity of migraines.

From Krystle Shapiro, LMT, Touchstone Massage Therapies, 208-290-6760

Oftentimes with severe headaches, the last thing someone wants is to be touched! Depending on the severity of the headache, and/or the type of headache, i.e. cluster, migraine, sinus, tension, or chemical headaches, massage can provide a reduction of stress that may be a contributing factor. Manual lymph drainage, a specialized massage for moving lymph fluids, may be especially helpful in releasing head congestion contributing to migraine symptoms.

From Robin Mize CBS. Quantum Biofeedback, 208-263-8846
There are a number of alternative or complementary treatment options available for migraine relief. One of these options for migraines is biofeedback. Biofeedback is a technique that involves reducing the effects of pain and stress on your body by learning how your body reacts to pain and stress. Biofeedback does this through monitoring instruments that can detect and display internal bodily function. This is where the EPFX system comes in. This system picks up on those individual stressors and retrains through the subconscious mind. The practitioner is able to share with the client what those stressors may be, and then the client can use that information for lifestyle changes. This can give people better control over body function indicators such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, muscle tension, and brain waves. Biofeedback is a type of complementary and alternative medicine known as mind-body therapy. Biofeedback for migraines may be coupled with relaxation therapy. Relaxation therapy teaches a variety of relaxation strategies for reducing tension and stress throughout the body. I have been able to assist many of my clients that suffer with migraine headaches.
From Owen Marcus, MA, CA, Rolfer, 265-8440, www.align.org

As a Rolfer over that past 28 years, I have had many referrals for migraines. Every one of these clients had an usually tense upper back, neck and head. Neurologist, who were clients of mine and who sent me some of these clients, also saw a consistent pattern of tension with migraine patients. Chronic soft tissue tension is often a reflection of not just a higher stress level, but can come from never being taught how to really relax. Once the body begins to relax, the mind learns to relax. Together the client has greater resiliency to stress, thereby less vulnerable to headaches. Once the soft tissue tension begins to release from the upper body, enviably the migraines would reduce or completely disappear.

From Penny Waters, Reflexologist, Master Herbalist, 597-4343

When a client comes to me seeking relief from migraine headaches I immediately anticipate that I will find imbalance in the liver and/or pituitary gland/brain/spine and nerve reflexes. This is because migraines are associated with digestive difficulties, especially congestion in the liver, tension from stress, which always affects the function of the pituitary gland (and, in turn, all glands), nervous system and constricting and expanding blood vessels in the brain.
We begin with a thorough written and verbal consultation about lifestyle, stresses, foods eaten, exercise habits, and so on. I offer hope and an outline of the approach we will take together to facilitate wellness.
Despite my initial suspicions, I always let the feet tell me what is out of balance in the body. My client is invited to ‘put their feet up’ and then I go to work giving a full reflexology session on the feet, making notes as to areas of tension, congestion and inflammation. Reflexology is revealing as it tells me which organs or glands are out of balance and needing healing that promote proper function of the body. Reflexology helps the migraine headaches decrease in frequency and intensity and also is profoundly relaxing to the body, mind and spirit relieving stress and the resulting impact on wellness. When the reflexology is complete, I discuss with my client the organs, glands and body parts that are out of balance and the impact of reflexology on promoting wellness. I generally recommend reflexology treatments once a week for 4-6 weeks for a transformation in the condition. Individual programs, however, will be made according to the needs of the client. I also recommend herbs that will help bring about and speed up wellness in the affected areas and relieve the migraine headaches. Generally one herbal formula in a tea or tincture is all that I recommend at any one time. At this point I will discuss foods that are commonly associated with triggering migraines and make suggestions for food changes that will help prevent migraines. The goal is to assess the whole person and the life of this person to establish patterns that are leading to this painful condition and to choose a new path leading to well-being and joyful living.

Contact information for your questions for future articles:
Krystle Shapiro, Touchstone Massage Therapies: 208-290-6760, or email at krystle.touchstone@gmail.com.

The Sandpoint Wellness Council Members:
Krystle Shapiro, Touchstone Massage Therapies, 208/290-6760
Owen Marcus, Rolfing, 208/265-8440
Tess Hahn, Acupuncture, 208/683-5211
Kristine Battey, Divine Health Physical Therapy, 208/946-7072
Ilani Kopiecki, Integrated Body Work & CranioSacral 208/610-2005
Mary Boyd, Mountain View Physical Therapy 208/290-5575
Robin Mize, Quantum Biofeedback Systems 208/610-9997
Julie Hutslar, Core Belief Restructuring 208/263-1448
Mario Roxas, Naturopath 208/946-0984
Toni Tessier, Dancing Hands Massage, Bach Flowers 208/610-8681
Penny Waters, Relaxation Destination, Herbology, Reflexology 208/597-4343

There are many items in your kitchen- in the fridge or sitting on shelves or in cupboards- that are capable of helping your family feel better and heal faster from common complaints such as colds and flu. In ‘olden times’ they were commonly used by moms and ‘plain folk’ to help with everyday complaints and disorders. You, too, can create your own herbal pharmacy for your family. These helpful items are the herbs, spices and vegetables commonly found in most kitchens today. The art of using them to create helpful remedies for family life I call ‘Kitchen Herbology’.

Here are some remedy recipes for you to try. Making them now will ensure you will have them when you need them and for the season of colds.

Tincture: Cold and Sinus Remedy

1 oz each:

Cayenne pepper

Ginger root (sliced but peeling is not necessary)

Fresh garlic (peeled and sliced )

Yellow onion (peeled and sliced)

Horseradish (fresh root sliced or from a jar- as pure as possible- not creamed)

One whole lemon sliced with some of its ‘zest’.

Combine all of the above in a large jar that has a lid. Add enough apple cider vinegar to completely cover everything and to fill the jar. No other type of vinegar is suitable. Shake at least once a day for two weeks. Strain and keep in the refrigerator.

It makes the best sore throat gargle. You can swallow 1-2 Tbsp or add 1-2 Tbsp to a pure juice or add hot water to make a tea. Take every 4 hours for the first 2 days of a cold, flu, sinus congestion, allergies. (Don’t wake yourself up in the night to take it. Sleep is too important to the healing process.) Taper off to every 6-8 hours over the next few days as you start to feel better. This remedy will promote perspiration, bowel movements, urination, mucous elimination. My clients also report they love it as a salad dressing!

Tea: Digestive Tonic

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp peppermint

¼ tsp fennel seeds

¼ tsp ginger (fresh will be a little tastier and effective)

Place all of the above in a small saucepan. Add 1 cup water. Slowly bring to a boil and simmer very gently for 5-10 min. If it continues to boil, turn off heat and let steep for 10 min. Strain and drink. This is an excellent remedy for indigestion, gas, intestinal discomfort and congestion. Often one cup is all you need for relief.

Juicing: Carrot, Beet and Celery

Put through a juicer 4 carrots, 1 beet and 2 stalks of celery. Prepare them as recommended for your juicer. Drink no more than ½- 1 cup of a juiced drink at one time. They are very condensed and power-packed. Have no more than 3 cups in one day. This combination has multiple health benefits. Altogether they cleanse blood, lymph, liver and gall bladder: support the brain and nervous system; flush the kidneys; remedy constipation; ease ‘growing pains’, support teeth and bone growth.

Add 1 grapefruit for colds and sinus problems.

Just a side note. For centuries the English called vegetables ‘herbs’.

As with any natural healing method, common sense and care must be a part of utilizing these kitchen remedies. When there is high fever, pain, profuse bleeding, difficulty in breathing, disorientation, always seek medical help immediately. These remedies are not intended to replace medicine for serious illnesses. Children under 12 always have half the dosage of an adult. Very young children could have very small amounts added to their regular juice. In all cases, adult supervision is assumed.

To be on the safe side and in accordance with professional practice I recommend you consult your medical practitioner for confirmation that these remedies are right for you and your family.

Penny Waters

Master Herbalist

Sandpoint

Can be reached at: 208 597 4343 or at sunpen54@yahoo.com

A Common Complaint from Today’s Busy People

Each of us has heard from many of our friends and family that they suffer from arthritis. It seems to be common today and we have begun to take it for granted. With the coming of the maturing of the “boomers” we have begun to expect arthritis as part of the aging experience.

Research is uncovering that arthritis has begun to affect people as early as age 25. One of the professional dental assistants I have recently been visiting shared with me that her three year old daughter is suffering from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. I was stunned to hear that.

Arthritis is generally considered an inflammation of the joints leading to pain or tenderness, stiffness, perhaps localized swelling, sometimes a “crunchiness” sound in the joints known as crepitis, and often a loss of full use potential in the affected areas, mainly the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, and ankles. This occurs because joint spaces become narrowed due to a loss of cartilage or crystalline boney deposits. Wear and tear, normal for active people, as well as repetitive motions experienced in work and sports activities accumulates as we age and may cause damage to the collagen matrix covering and padding our joint ends. Our joints are always moving, bone, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, fluids, etc. to enable our actions. Stress and strain on our joints can cause damage that in turn causes irritation and thus inflammation. Surfaces that were once smooth become rough, irritated, and tender. Such inflammation alerts the body to release enzymes that further damage the irritated cartilage.

Two forms of arthritis are more familiarly recognized: Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). We ask ourselves, “What, if I am living a normal active lifestyle, causes me to acquire such a condition?” Some causes may be congenital predisposition as arthritis tends to run in families, such as abnormalities in joint or bone structures. Also trauma, obesity whereby excess weight places additional wear on weight bearing joints, nutritional deficiencies, illness or disease, even previously experienced ones leaving an “imprint” on structures, allergies, immune disorders, stress (and who doesn’t experience stress in our busy lives), and our everyday exposures to environmental pollutants and toxins.

Most of these “symptoms” are addressed with pain relieving medications, and many work well in spite of the variety of side effects. But the causes are the real culprits that must be addressed to bring on the most long lasting results.

Natural therapies have become more widespread in reducing the pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of mobility in affected joints and can work in complement with ongoing medical interventions. As a massage therapist studying holistic nutrition, I have become fascinated with the connection of dietary choices that can accelerate or diminish the symptoms of OA or RA. And, as well, our exposures to industrial pollutants and toxins have lead to many disorders affecting digestion, all with a connection to OA and RA, such as leaky gut syndrome, GERD (acid reflux), candidiasis (overgrowth of yeasts in the gut), allergies, chemical sensitivities, chronic infections, and autoimmune disorders as in ankylosing spondylitis and lupus erythematosis.

The members of The Sandpoint Wellness Council often serve clients suffering from arthritic conditions and seek to find answers and solutions to the many individualistic causes. Following are the therapies they find most effective in relieving the day-to-day symptoms enabling an improvement in pain management, overall health and healing, and mobility. Our goal is to provide information to help you choose a therapy best suited for your needs, and we always welcome your responses to our articles. Please visit our website, www.sandpointwellnesscouncil.com, and share with us your stories, comments, and ideas.

Krystle Shapiro, LMT. Touchstone Massage Therapy 208/290-6760

When joints are stiff and inflamed, the surrounding muscles respond by tightening up. The brain sends chemistry to the affected areas signaling the need to protect, and this in turn informs the muscles to react whereby they then further compress the joints. Massage therapy can relax tensed muscles, gently stretch and release spasms, reduce associated pain, and improve overall mobility of joint function.

Ilani Kopiecki, CMT, Ilani Healing CranioSacral, 208/610-2005

The pain and inflammation from arthritis can be miserable and sometimes debilitating. Through the release work of CranioSacral Therapy, tight tissues brought on by arthritis can be softened, enabling blood flow and oxygen to surge into inflamed areas, providing pain relief and mobility. Since CranioSacral Therapy is based on light touch, the affected area can be treated without much invasive manipulation, thus preventing more discomfort for the client.

Owen Marcus, MA, Certified Advance Rolfer, 208/265-8440, www.align.org

In thirty years of practice, I’ve worked with many people who were diagnosed with arthritis. After Rolfing, the symptoms usually went away when the soft tissue tension left. In this country, we traditionally had little understanding of how soft tissue (muscles and fascia – the tissue that holds everything together) affects all aspects of our existence. Last summer, my colleagues produced the first international conference on fascia at Harvard Medical School for clinicians and researchers. It was so successful that another one is planned.

Often, someone who has osteoarthritis will tell me that the joint they injured many years ago is now the joint with arthritis. Previous trauma creates a cascade of body responses that can end with a joint locking up. By releasing the effect of the trauma in the soft tissue, we can often prevent–and in few cases, reverse–arthritis. I will be the first to admit, however, that after a joint has deteriorated, removing the soft tissue strain may be of little benefit to the joint – Rolfing can prevent other areas from tightening.

Penny Waters, Reflexology and Herbs, Relaxation Destination, 208/597-4343, sunpen54@yahoo.com

Whether suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, a client will benefit from reflexology and herbs. They decrease inflammation and pain and help prevent a worsening condition. Reflexology is proven to improve blood circulation. This means stagnant, inflamed areas are flushed so swelling decreases and soreness improves. With improved circulation the liver cleanses and kidneys filter impurities more frequently, which reduces toxicity that promotes inflammation.

Reflexology will help stimulate the natural release of cortisone from the adrenal glands which reduces inflammation and pain. The relaxation of reflexology coupled with the improved circulation results in joints feeling less stiff as well as less painful. It’s wonderful that improvement can happen in painful places without having to touch them directly.

Herbs are selected for their specific properties which will benefit the person with arthritis. I look for herbs which will reduce inflammation and swelling and support liver and kidney function. Burdock is an excellent choice for these goals. Cleansing herbs that will penetrate into muscles and tissue walls; cleansers that will break down organic waste such as uric acid; pain relieving herbs; herbs with high levels of vitamin C to return an acid system to an alkaline system will all be combined into a formula for relief.

Lifestyle support is very valuable so I make the following suggestions: Movement/exercise will help stiff joints from becoming heavily arthritic. Do a little every day. Reduction of highly acidic foods (examples are meats, acidic fruit) will also support a return to well-being. I encourage my clients to do their best to make dietary changes that will help them feel better. All kinds of supportive ideas are available in a little booklet I have for my clients for easy reference. Reflexology and herbs offer a safe and healthy way to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. Check with your doctor, as always, and then discover the help that is available.

Mario Roxas, Naturopathic Physician, 208/946-0984

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints. There are several potential factors that can contribute to an individual developing arthritis. Such factors include genetics, age, weight, previous injuries, illness or infection, and chronic repetitive movements as associated with a job or a sport. Mounting clinical evidence suggests that dietary habits and potential nutritional deficiencies can also be significant contributing factors to arthritis.

As a naturopathic physician I work with patients not only to diminish their arthritis, but get to the cause of their pain and inflammation. This involves taking a fairly comprehensive personal medical history that looks at all those factors mentioned above, from family history, to past illnesses and injuries, to occupation, hobbies and level of physical activity. This medical history also includes taking an in-depth look at a patient’s diet. Once this done, I develop a treatment plan that outlines specific nutritional considerations and dietary recommendations that can help lessen inflammation and promote healing for that particular individual. I may also incorporate anti-inflammatory herbs to further help soothe pain and promote relaxation and soft tissue repair, and physiotherapeutic modalities, such as hydrotherapy, stretching, and various bodywork techniques, to help increase circulation, reduce stress, and enhance flexibility.

At this point it is important to note is that there is no one set treatment plan. For instance, if 10 people came to the office diagnosed with arthritis, they may all share similar general symptoms, but their root cause may be different. For one person it may be an underlying nutritional deficiency. For another, an immune function issue. And for yet another it may be a metabolism issue. Consequently, each person may leave with a different treatment plan. One thing that is consistent with each plan is my adherence to the principles of naturopathic medicine which are: First, do no harm, address the cause not just the symptom, treat the whole individual not just the injury, help the body heal itself, and promote prevention and wellness. Please visit my website at: www.drroxas.com

Kristine Battey MSPT, ATC, CSCS, HLC, Owner Divine Health & Fitness, www.divinehf.com, 208-946-7072

I have worked with many people with varying levels of arthritis. I teach people exercises designed to preserve and increase the strength and use of their joints. People who suffer from arthritis usually always feel better after exercising. Exercise helps the joints to become looser and glide better which in turn decreases the amount of pain and stiffness a person may suffer from.

An exercise session may begin with low or non-impact aerobic exercise such as the stationary bike or elliptical machine to warm up the body and begin to loosen the joints. Aerobic exercise also strengthens the heart, helps to maintain weight, and increases the overall fitness level. The more fit a person with arthritis is, the easier the disease is to manage and the more active and pain-free the person is likely to be. Gentle range of motion exercises are another type of exercise that moves the joint through it’s full range of motion helping to relieve stiffness, improving and maintaining joint mobility, and increasing flexibility. Strengthening exercises preserve and increase muscle strength, increase the person’s general level of fitness, and help to maintain overall body strength and weight.

Any exercise program that I design is always tailored to the individual’s disease and limitations. Any movement is better than no movement and will improve the person’s quality of life significantly.

Herbs work. They are distinct from other plants in that they have constituents and properties that do nothing for the plant itself but have remarkable healing benefits for humans. They are plants that assist the body in its return to wellness, affecting every cell, organ, gland and body part. Whether we need help with tension, congestion or inflammation or more specific healing needs there are herbs to help relieve our dis-eases and restore balance. Herbs are a gift from Creation. Their power, their perfection, provided so abundantly just for us, has inspired herbalists for centuries to feel blessed and grateful, almost to the point of worship.

Perhaps you ‘tried herbs’ and ‘they didn’t work.” There are reasons for this experience. Herbs are not like pills. Modern medicine isolates specific, active components and intensifies them into power-packed pills that target a specific area or condition. This can mean fast, effective results on the target but side effects from their swift and aggressive nature. Quite often a beneficial effect in one area leads to a detrimental effect in another. Herbs, on the other hand, are complex and holistic in their make up, just like us. Certainly, they enter our bodies armed with a full range of components to target the area in need of healing. However, these herbal warriors also support other organs and body parts that are linked to the ailing area. Their effect is broader and with much more sensitive and intelligent understanding of our complex physiology. They work more slowly since they are covering much more territory but their effect is far-reaching and profound. One remarkable herb is very stimulating to kidney function making it a powerful diuretic, comparable to at least one medical drug. Drugs that are diuretic cause the loss of vital potassium from the body which aggravates any cardio-vascular problem. This herb, however, is one of the best natural sources of potassium! It is an ideally balanced diuretic that may be used whenever needed, even when there is water retention due to heart problems. What is this wonderful herbal warrior that is such an inspiring example of the perfection to be found in the Plant Kingdom? It is dandelion. (Taraxacum officinale). Yes, that dandelion. That invasive yellow flower that waves to us from all over our front lawn. Herbs are often relegated to the status of weeds because they grow prolifically and easily, invading gardens, lawns and vegetable patches crowding out more desirable plants. It’s with a heavy heart that I uproot countless red clover plants (Trifolium pratense) in my wildly weedy back yard each year. It is an excellent blood cleanser and nerve tonic, helpful for bronchitis and eczema. However, it will cover my lawn and house eventually if I do not keep it in check. Harvesting, drying and storing an herb like this requires time, effort and space that I don’t have. So, I praise it as I pull it and give thanks for the bounty in nature, knowing there are plenty more plants growing in organic and wild-crafter gardens who supply me with my ready-dried variety.

Another reason you may be saying you ‘tried herbs’ and ‘they didn’t work’ is that you may have misunderstood the nature of your complaint and wrongly decided on the herb you needed. Sinusitis often requires herbs for intestinal cleansing, for example. Did you know which part of the herb to take? How to prepare it? How much to take, how often and for how long? Which herbs combine best for your specific needs? Are you supporting a linked area for best effect? Do you know contraindications? This is the knowledge that distinguishes general understanding from proficient use and results-oriented ability.

Herbalists are trained extensively in physiology and anatomy in order to understand the complex inter-connected nature of our bodies, minds and spirits. They study the ‘specific’ choice of herb for various conditions. Contraindications are also studied.Herbalists often use a second modality in order to understand the health and ill-health of their clients more thoroughly. I use reflexology.

Herbalists are not medical doctors so we do not practice medicine. We offer natural healing principles and support them with herbs. We don’t diagnose. Our work is to match the properties of an herb to the conditions being experienced in the body in order to assist the natural healing ability of the body to restore wellness. Rarely is there no herb available to support the return to wellness when the choice, strength, method, amount and usage are thoughtfully recommended by a professional. Clients are always asked to check with their medical provider before starting on a natural healing program with herbs.

Herbs can be taken as teas or tinctures. They can be applied externally as an ointment, liniment, compress or poultice. They can be inhaled or absorbed as an essential oil. Each method has its particular benefit for body, mind and spirit but herbs, in any fashion, are helpful to us and our health and well-being. Herbs work!

Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium)
A tonic to all glands; stimulates the action of the liver and is one of the best blood cleansers. Found locally and in abundance.

Penny Waters
Master Herbalist, Reflexologist
Your RELAXATION DESTINATION
Sandpoint
Can be reached at: 208 597 4343 or sunpen54@yahoo.com