Bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around a joint. These pockets, called “bursa,” provide joint lubrication. Inflammation of the bursa causes severe pain during movement. The joints of the shoulders, elbows, knees and Achilles’ tendons are most vulnerable. Frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and bunions are all examples of bursitis and often involve tendinitis as well. Typical inflammatory signs include redness and heat, swelling and tenderness. With rest, healing should not take longer than two weeks.

Causes

Bursitis is often caused by an injury or repetitive stress to the joint. It can occur with arthritis, an infection, or as a result of calcium deposits causing friction. Glucosamine is a nutrient that is found naturally in the body, mostly in cartilage. It is essentially a combination of glucose and amine, an ammonia derivative containing nitrogen and hydrogen atoms. With age, cartilage loses glucosamine and thins leading to joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Overexposure to cold causes a predisposition to inflammation. Bursitis at the Achilles’ tendon is common in young women as a result of poor shoe selection, when the hard back of the shoe presses continually against the tendon just above the heel. Bunions are also often associated with bursitis as a result of inappropriate footwear. Bursitis can become chronic, recurring frequently when the joint continues to undergo repeated strain and overuse.

Nutrition

To reduce inflammation and promote rapid healing, eat oranges and grapefruits which are rich in the antioxidant vitamin C. Make sure to include the white layer under the citrus peel which contains bioflavonoids to enhance the healing action of vitamin C. Essential fatty acids contained in unrefined vegetable and seed oils, such as flax seed oil or pumpkin seed oil, will also help inhibit inflammation. To prevent calcium deposits, which contribute to chronic bursitis, make sure that dietary calcium is taken with magnesium for the proper dissolution and absorption of calcium. Calcium and magnesium are contained in the proper proportion in green vegetables. Milk fortified with synthetic vitamin D is not the best calcium source because synthetic vitamin D tends to bind magnesium, causing it to be excreted. Silica, in the form of water-soluble vegetal silica, is extremely helpful in relieving bursitis. A good dietary source is organic oatmeal.

Nutritional Supplements

Vitamin C and bioflavonoids reduce inflammation and pain, and speed healing. Bioflavonoids act similarly and improve vitamin C absorption. Vitamins A and E, and silica benefit connective tissue repair.

Bromelain is an enzyme which acts as an anti-inflammatory when taken between meals.

Glucosamine supplements, in combination with proper diet and vitamins, can rebuild damaged cartilage. As an anti-inflammatory agent and painkiller, it is effective for long-term treatment of chronic illnesses. Most patients experience relief after taking glucosamine for six weeks.

If the problem persists, intramuscular injections of vitamin B12 and magnesium sulphate, by a physician have provided relief of pain and help break up calcium deposits over time. In some cases, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) successfully treats bursitis. A vitamin B complex with at least 50 mg of vitamins B5 and B12 should be added to the protocol.

If the problem fails to improve with dietary change or supplementation, consider the possibility of food allergy, assimilation problems and digestive enzyme insufficiencies, especially hydrochloric acid.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 3,000–5,000 mg in divided doses

Bromelain, 250 mg three times daily between meals

Glucosamine, 500 mg three times daily for four months

Helpful

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU

Vitamin A, 10,000 IU (avoid during pregnancy) or 25,000 IU beta-carotene

Vitamin B5, 1,500–3,000 mg daily for six weeks

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg

Silica, 1,000 mg

Herbal Remedies

Apply warm comfrey, horsetail or oat straw compresses to the affected area help relieve the pain and stiffness.

Arnica and comfrey salves help speed healing.

Use a hot mullein poultice to relieve the pain.

With pus inflammation, apply hot fenugreek seed packs.

Alfalfa, chaparral and stinging nettle juices supply the minerals needed for nourishing and strengthening the tissues. Another good combination is horsetail and oat straw juice and a dash of capsicum. Take 1 tbsp. of juice daily.

Curcumin is the yellow pigment of turmeric and in some studies it has been reported to be as effective as cortisone without any of the associated side-effects. Take 500–1,000 mg three times daily on an empty stomach for about six weeks.

Homeopathy

Use one of the remedies below in a 6c strength, placing 2 tablets under the tongue three times daily. Take as necessary for not longer than two weeks.

Apis is particularly useful when swelling, accompanied by heat and redness, predominates. The affected part is made worse by heat and the pains may be stinging in character.

Use Rhus toxicodendron if there is a great deal of stiffness, made worse by resting and improved by movement and heat. Swelling and tearing pains are present. Consider Rhus toxicodendron if cold and dampness worsens or brings on the symptoms.

If even the slightest movement or jarring causes pain, and heat makes it worse, Bryonia is indicated.

Tissue Salts

Take 4 tablets under the tongue every hour if the pain is severe, then three times daily as necessary.

As after any injury with swelling, use Ferr phos to reduce inflammation.

Kali mur is helpful to decrease swelling.

Calc phos promotes healthy cellular activity and restores tone to weakened tissues.

Calc fluor maintains tissue elasticity.

External/Physical Therapies

Pulsed electromagnetic therapy is highly recommended to eliminate pain, as well as to increase blood circulation, bringing the required nutrients to the injured area.

During the acute stage, rest and immobilize the affected part.

As soon as acute symptoms subside, gentle movement will help recovery.

Apply hot potato or cabbage leaf packs to promote healing.

Apple cider vinegar compresses relieve pain and stiffness.

Place a protective pad on the affected area to avoid friction.

Reflexology

For bursitis in the shoulder, work the reflexes of the adrenal glands, shoulder, neck, mid-back, hip and arm area, as per illustration.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Super Bromelain (Albi)

Ascorbate/Non-acidic Vitamin C (Ester-C)

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1,000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend

(Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

Beta Carotene (Natural Factors)

Beta Green (Natural Factors)

Bromelain Extra Strength (Natural Factors)

Calcium and Magnesium Citrate

(Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil 1,000 mg (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil Liquid (Natural Factors)

Glucosamine Sulfate (Natural Factors)

Vitamin A (Natural Factors)

Advanced Glucosamine Sulfate

(Quest Vitamins)

Herbal Remedies

Dr. Dunner Pagosid Devil’s Claw Root 410 (Flora)

FloraSil (Flora)

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Green Magma (Green-foods)

Joint Ease (Natural Factors)

Muscle and Joint (Natural Factors)

Turmeric Extract (Natural Factors)

Alfalfa Leaves (Nature’s Herbs)

ArthPlus (Nature’s Herbs)

Curcumin-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Inflam-Aid (Nature’s Herbs)

Silica-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Inflamma-Force (Prairie Naturals)

Homeopathy

Bryonia (Nelsons Homeopathy)

Rhus Tox (Nelsons Homeopathy)

Ruta (Nelsons Homeopathy)

External Therapies

Glucosamine/Chondroitin Topical Gel

(Inno-Vite)

Chamomile Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Lavender Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Marjoram Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Sweating is healthy. Increased perspiration is how the body regulates water and mineral content and temperature and removes toxins from the system through the skin. Sweating is an action of the sweat glands. One of the two types of sweat glands congregates only in certain areas of the body, such as the groin and underarms. These glands only fully develop at adolescence. The other type is found virtually everywhere on the skin, especially on the palms and soles of the feet. Body odor is individual, created through bacterial decomposition.

Causes

It is normal to sweat more during a fever, in hot weather and during exercise, as a means to regulate body temperature. Some people sweat more than others, as a part of their natural constitution. Fear, anxiety or stress can cause excessive perspiration, especially on the hands and feet. Obesity and drinking alcohol can cause an increase in sweating so can hypoglycemia and hyperthyroidism, which have additional symptoms of nervousness, weakness and trembling. Hot flashes with attacks of sweating often occur with the hormonal shift during menopause. It is completely normal for teenagers to sweat more while hormones are in fluctuation. Night sweats often occur without known cause, however they are sometimes signs of serious illnesses, such as tuberculosis, Hodgkin’s disease and AIDS. Wearing synthetic materials such as polyester, acrylic and nylon contribute to perspiration and should be avoided, as should non-leather shoes, if foot sweat is a problem.

Nutrition

Be sure to replenish the loss of fluids from sweating. Coconut milk is ideal for a hot climate in which people tend to perspire profusely. Coconut milk replaces sodium and liquid lost through sweating. It also replaces potassium and calcium, preventing the muscle cramps and weakness which can result from the loss of these minerals through heavy sweating. In North America, where most people have too much sodium in their bodies due to a salty diet, it is most important to replace water, potassium and calcium if a great deal of liquid has been lost through sweating. Fresh-pressed juice from green vegetables is an excellent way to replace these lost nutrients. Lemons, limes and crab-apples possess a mildly astringent quality which tends to reduce perspiration.

Nutritional Supplements

It is important to replace minerals such as calcium and potassium which are lost during sweating. Lack of calcium can cause muscle cramps, while potassium deficiency causes muscle weakness and constipation. Although potassium is best supplemented through diet, calcium can be supplemented.

Daily dosages:

Calcium, 1,200 mg

Potassium, 2,500 mg

Herbal Remedies

Sweating is a healthy reaction of the body to rid itself of toxins. If there is no known cause for excessive sweating, alleviate the symptoms with medicinal plants.

Sage has a calming action on the sweat-producing nerve fibers. Suppression of perspiration usually begins about two hours after taking sage juice, tea or tincture, and often lasts for several days. Use 20 sage leaves (4 tbsp.) per day. Bring 2 cups of water with 4 tbsp. of sage leaves to boil and simmer for five minutes. Strain and drink in the evening.

Alternatively, mix 5 tbsp. of sage leaves,
1 tbsp. of horsetail and 1 tbsp. of valerian root. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of this mixture, bring to boil again, strain and drink 1 cup daily, or as needed.

Bathe feet and hands in equal parts of oak bark, tormentil root, eucalyptus leaves, witch hazel leaves and walnut leaves. Add 5 tbsp. of this mixture to 2 qt. of water and boil for five minutes. Strain and add 1 qt. of cold water.

For night sweating, use 2 parts each of wild strawberry leaves and stinging nettle leaves, and 3 parts each of walnut leaves and sage leaves. Add 1 cup of boiling water to 1 tsp. of this mixture and drink before bed.

If sweating is due to anxiety, drink a calming tea of peppermint, lemon balm and fennel seeds before going to bed. Lindenflowers and elderberry promote sweating, so avoid them, if possible.

If perspiration odor is a problem, add a few drops of antibacterial Chinese peppermint oil to shower gel, or add 2 drops of lavender, rose or orange oil to bath water for a pleasant scent.

Homeopathy

A sample of the many prescribed remedies for excessive sweating is given below. Take one in the 6c strength four times daily for up to two weeks. Consult an experienced homeopath if the problem persists.

Take Calcarea for an overweight person who feels cold and clammy, and the sweat smells sour. The head sweats worse at night.

Mercurius is recommended for pungent and sticky sweat aggravated by heat or cold.

Take Sulphur for hot head sweats and diarrhea first thing in the morning.

Tissue Salts

Take 4 tablets under the tongue four times daily.

Silicea is useful for smelly perspiration, especially on the feet and underarms.

Kali phos will help excessive perspiration due to nervousness and stress.

External/Physical Therapies

Use body powder or baking soda to absorb excess moisture.

Available Brand Name Products

Herbal Remedies

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Ovarian cysts are not uncommon. In many cases, they appear and disappear, and are often discovered by accident during a routine pelvic examination. They are an enclosed area filled with fluid. Cysts can be solitary or multiple, situated on or beside the ovaries. Sizes can vary from small to the size of a grapefruit. Pain and discomfort arise when the cyst presses against other tissues, but cysts are often small, harmless and cause no discomfort. The pain is experienced as a constant soreness or burning just inside and above the hip bone, or on either side in the lower abdomen. Sudden twisting movements are painful and the area is usually very sensitive to touch and pressure. Some women experience sudden sharp pains during ovulation. Depending on their size and location, ovarian cysts can irritate the bladder and intestines, causing abdominal swelling or pain during intercourse.

In rare cases, a cyst will form on a stem and twist, causing severe abdominal pain comparable to an appendicitis attack. Ovarian cysts that develop after menopause should also be checked regularly, since there is a possibility that they may also be cancerous. Multiple cysts on one ovary, accompanied by menstrual irregularities and excess facial hair, are known as polycystic ovaries.

Causes

Every month the ovaries develop a follicle which normally releases an egg during ovulation. Cysts form when a follicle grows but neither releases an egg nor degenerates. Instead, it continues to grow in the ovary, secreting fluid that develops into a cyst. Most cysts naturally disappear within a cycle or two. Persistent or recurring problems with cysts are caused by hormonal imbalances often related to diet, including too much meat, saturated fats and products made from white flour, pastas and rice, which lack fiber. Also suspected are pelvic congestion from poor circulation and a sluggish liver, since that organ is responsible for the detoxification of hormones.

Nutrition

Nutritional therapy can help prevent the enlargement of ovarian cysts. Eat plenty of whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Drink enzyme-rich juices such as carrot, spinach, beet or cucumber juice to boost the immune system. Since the liver is involved in any abnormal metabolism of hormones, eat such liver-cleansing foods as artichokes, lemons, black cherries, pineapple, parsnips, dandelion greens, watercress, turmeric, celery and burdock root. Many of these can also be juiced. Other foods good for the liver are kelp, dulse, milk thistle, Swiss chard, turnip greens, wheat germ, seeds and nuts. Use at least two tablespoons of unrefined, cold-pressed flax seed oil daily on salads or in any dishes which do not require heating to high temperatures. Flax seed oil is an excellent source of the essential fatty acid omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid and also contains the other essential fatty acid, omega-6 linoleic acid. These fatty acids, which the body cannot manufacture itself, are converted to prostaglandins, hormone-like substances which reduce inflammation.

Avoid coffee, black tea, alcohol and processed foods, which interfere with hormone function. Most importantly, lower the intake of saturated fat and cholesterol by eliminating red meats from the diet. Keep high-fat dairy products, especially cheeses, to a minimum. Cultured dairy products such as yogurt or buttermilk are fine as long as they are low in fat and free of antibiotics and other chemicals. The more vegetarian the diet, the better. Use fish and seafood as your source of animal protein if you eat any at all.

Nutritional Supplements

Vitamin E is often helpful in preventing and reducing cysts, as it provides hormonal balance. The gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) available in evening primrose oil is highly recommended for building anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. They can also be found in cod or halibut liver oil, flax seed oil, olive oil, black currant oil or oil of borage. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is also helpful in combating inflammation. Bioflavonoids are plant substances that exist naturally with vitamin C and protect estrogens. They prevent estrogens from being broken down too rapidly, thereby increasing overall estrogen activity. They are abundantly available in citrus fruits, garlic, onions, peppers, cherries, berries, grape seed, currants and many other foods. In supplement form, look for rutin, hesperidin, catechin, quercetin, grape seed extract or pycnogenol. To support the health of the ovarian lining, vitamin A or beta-carotene is useful.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 600 IU

Evening primrose oil, two 500 mg capsules three times daily

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg

Quercetin, 500 mg

Helpful

Vitamin A, 25,000 IU or 30,000 IU

beta-carotene (avoid during pregnancy)

Herbal Remedies

Natural progesterone cream should be applied topically from the fourteenth to twenty-eighth day of the menstrual cycle. Apply 1/4–1/2 tsp. on hips and thighs to help regulate hormone levels.

Dong quai, licorice, black cohosh, chaste berry, damiana, raspberry, sage, ginseng, fennel and gotu kola regulate estrogen. Take as teas, tinctures or capsules, as directed on the bottle.

Homeopathy

An experienced homeopath should be sought for a more extensive treatment.

Tissue Salts

Take 4 tablets under the tongue three times daily.

Calc sulph eliminates the waste material that causes ovarian cysts.

External/Physical Therapies

Avoid chilling the extremities and lower abdomen, which causes internal congestion.

Minimize use of high heels, since they inhibit pelvic circulation.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Ascorbate/Non-acidic Vitamin C (Ester-C)

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

E 400 IU Mixed Tocopherol 100% Natural (Natural Factors)

Ester-C (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil 1000 mg (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil Liquid (Natural Factors)

Hi Potency Multi (Natural Factors)

Super Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Ultra Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Ultra Prim Evening Primrose Oil (Natural Factors)

Other Nutritional Supplements

Bee Pollen (Nature’s Herbs)

Herbal Remedies

Dong Quai Extract (Natural Factors)

Enriching Green Factors (Natural Factors)

Saw Palmetto Extract (Natural Factors)

Alfalfa Leaves (Nature’s Herbs)

Black Cohosh Root (Nature’s Herbs)

Burdock (Nature’s Herbs)

Chaste-Berry Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Damiana Leaves (Nature’s Herbs)

Dong Quai-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Echinacea-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Fennel Seed (Nature’s Herbs)

Ginseng-Power, Siberian (Nature’s Herbs)

Golden Seal Root (Nature’s Herbs)

Green-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Kelp (Norwegian) Combination

(Nature’s Herbs)

Licorice Phytosome (Nature’s Herbs)

Parsley Leaf (Nature’s Herbs)

Red Clover Combination (Nature’s Herbs)

Red Raspberry Combination (Nature’s Herbs)

Saw Palmetto-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Myasthenia gravis is a rare, chronic disorder affecting the musculoskeletal system of the body. Characteristic signs are becoming easily fatigued and weak muscles, which are worse in the evening after a full day of use. The face, neck and throat muscles are affected first. The first sign is often drooping eyelids. Problems swallowing and double vision are typical and speech can become nasal.

The disease continues in spurts. Relapses lead to weakness and paralysis of the arms and legs. There is no pain involved in this condition, nor is there a numbness or change in feeling, although muscles lose flesh. The thymus gland is often enlarged. If breathing problems develop, they can cause a life-threatening situation, but this is rare. In most cases, the disease progesses in a mild form which is not life-threatening.

Causes

Usually, young women are affected by myasthenia gravis. The cause lies in an autoimmune attack on the receptors that lie at the junction between the nerves and muscles. The poor conduction of nerve impulses is responsible for the muscle weakness. Why the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body’s own cells is unknown. Myasthenia gravis also occurs in children born to mothers with the disease, and symptoms begin within weeks after birth. Physical and emotional stress and infections can worsen symptoms or bring on episodes.

Nutrition

A change in diet does make a difference in slowing the advance of this disease. Eating plenty of whole grains and green, leafy vegetables will provide the minerals calcium, phosphorus, manganese, sulphur, silicon, iodine, selenium and the vitamins B and E necessary for muscle strength. Whole grains provide the fiber needed for proper bowel functioning. The development of myasthenia gravis is linked to improper elimination of toxins from the bowels. Essential fatty acids from flax seed oil are necessary for brain and nervous system function.

Nutritional Supplements

Supplements, combined with an improvement in diet, provide remarkable results in some cases. Vitamins B and E are essential for proper nerve conduction and function. The B vitamin choline requires several other nutrients, including the other B vitamins and potassium to be synthesized and is an integral part of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Taking a B complex vitamin ensures all B-vitamin requirements are met. A lack of choline can cause many symptoms of myasthenia gravis. Lecithin is an excellent source of choline. The lecithin from soy is best.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids should be added to increase the body’s resistance to disease by supporting the immune system. Manganese is vital for muscle contraction and is required for the assimilation of choline. Without it, the muscles lack strength and coordination. Magnesium should also be supplemented to help calm many muscle and nervous system symptoms.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Lecithin, 3 tbsp.

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg three times daily

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU twice daily

Manganese, 5 mg

Multimineral complex, as directed on label

Helpful

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg three times daily

Magnesium, 600 mg

Herbal Remedies

St. John’s wort helps this condition by calming and soothing the nervous system. Take 1 tbsp. of juice or 1 cup of tea three times daily or before retiring, as required.

Other useful herbs include black cohosh, gotu kola, hops, lady’s slipper, licorice, red clover, skullcap, valerian, yarrow, yellow dock and yucca. Take 1 tbsp. of fresh juice of these herbs, 20 drops of tincture in water or add 1 tsp. of herbs to 1 cup of boiling water for a soothing herbal tea.

Homeopathy

An experienced homeopath should be sought for a more extensive treatment.

External/Physical Therapies

Avoid constant and excessively stressful situations. Take time to relax and sleep.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

Magnesium Complex (Klaire Laboratories)

Multi Element Buffered C

(Klaire Laboratories)

Flax Seed Oil 1000 mg (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil Liquid (Natural Factors)

Herbal Remedies

St. John’s Wort Extract (Natural Factors)

Valerian Root Extract (Natural Factors)

Black Cohosh Root (Nature’s Herbs)

Herbal Calm (Nature’s Herbs)

Hops-Valerian Combination

(Nature’s Herbs)

Licorice Phytosome (Nature’s Herbs)

Red Clover Combination

(Nature’s Herbs)

Scullcap (Nature’s Herbs)

St. John’s-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Valerian-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Yarrow Flowers (Nature’s Herbs)

Yellow Dock Root (Nature’s Herbs)

Yucca (Nature’s Herbs)

Lupus is an autoimmune disease of the rheumatic family. Because it gives the face a wolf-like resemblance, it is called lupus, meaning wolf. Lupus appears in either of two forms. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects the connective tissue in all parts of the body and is regarded as quite a serious illness. However, discoid lupus is limited only to the skin. The systemic type causes arthritic symptoms throughout the body, along with fever, weakness and weight loss. On the cheeks and over the nose bridge, a characteristic red rash develops in the shape of a butterfly. Sunlight triggers or aggravates the eruption. When inner organs become affected, including the kidneys, lungs and heart, the prognosis is serious. As is typical for autoimmune illnesses, lupus recurs in attacks which then subside for varying intervals. When the flare-ups recede, scars are often left on the skin.

Causes

Lupus is not a common disease, and little is known about its cause. As in all autoimmune diseases, the body’s defense system attacks, inflames and destroys its own tissues. It affects more women than men, and is often triggered following therapies with certain medications, including oral contraceptives, high blood pressure medications and sulfa drugs. Immunizations and viral infections, as well as fatigue and stress on the body, can trigger an attack of lupus.

Nutrition

A low-calorie, low-fat diet will benefit lupus treatment. Emphasize fresh vegetables and vegetable proteins from potatoes, whole grains, soy beans and legumes. Avoid red meat and dairy products. The amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine in animal protein foods contribute to the progression of lupus symptoms. Fat in the diet should come from unrefined, cold-pressed vegetable oils and fish. They contain essential fatty acids or, in the case of fish, eicosapentanoic acids which have a beneficial effect on the health of lupus patients.

Mild cases of lupus respond well to a stimulation of the immune system. To strengthen the immune system, drink plenty of water, limit sugar, and eat raw, enzyme-rich, green vegetables and citrus fruits for vitamin C. Make sure your diet includes foods rich in zinc. Raw pumpkin seeds and oysters from clear, uncontaminated waters are two good sources.

Avoid alfalfa sprouts. They contain canavanine, a toxin which the body incorporates into protein in the place of the amino acid arginine, producing a lupus-like syndrome or aggravating systemic lupus erythematosus.

Nutritional Supplements

Diet is very important in the treatment of lupus, as well as in other related rheumatoid illnesses and should not be neglected. Supplements can add to the benefits of a good diet and have often been used to hold off the symptoms indefinitely, even though symptoms return once the supplements are discontinued.

Some cases of both systemic and discoid lupus improve markedly with high dosages of vitamin E. Selenium, in some cases, increases the effectiveness of vitamin E. The B vitamin pantothenic acid is effective and should be taken with the other B vitamins. Vitamin B12 injections have proved helpful in other instances. Studies with beta-carotene showed it to be beneficial in preventing skin outbreaks from the sun, typical for discoid lupus.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU in divided doses, gradually increasing to 1,200 mg

Vitamin B complex, 50 mg three times daily

900 mg pantothenic acid, three times daily

Helpful

Selenium, 200 mcg

Beta-carotene, 50,000 IU three times daily

Herbal Remedies

A general herbal cleansing program is helpful in the treatment of lupus.

Devil’s claw, echinacea, goldenseal, red clover, yucca, watercress juice, aloe vera, garlic, ginger and burdock root have been helpful.

Lupus can be completely destroyed with black walnut.

Homeopathy

The homeopathic approach to lupus is constitutional treatment along with diet and lifestyle changes. Consult an experienced homeopath for extensive treatment.

Tissue Salts

For tissue salt remedies to relieve specific symptoms, see these sections: blood pressure (high), fatigue, fever, immune system and stress.

Other Suggestions

Chelation therapy helps alleviate lupus symptoms by strengthening the body’s immune system.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Ascorbate/Non-acidic Vitamin C (Ester-C)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 500 mg Capsules (Flora)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 1000 mg Capsules (Flora)

Efamol Evening Primrose Oil 30 ml Liquid (Flora)

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

Beta Carotene (Natural Factors)

Beta Green (Natural Factors)

C Extra (Natural Factors)

Coenzyme Q10 (Natural Factors)

E 400 IU Mixed Tocopherol 100% Natural (Natural Factors)

Grape Seed Extract (Natural Factors)

Hi Potency Multi (Natural Factors)

Super Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Ultra Multi Plus (Natural Factors)

Vitamin A (Natural Factors)

Wild Salmon Oil (Natural Factors)

Grape Seed Phytosome (Nature’s Herbs)

Green-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

DHEA (Scandinavian Naturals)

Strix (Scandinavian Naturals)

Other Nutritional Supplements

Aloe Vera Gel (Nature’s Herbs)

Herbal Remedies

Bilberry Extract (Natural Factors)

Devil’s Claw Extract (Natural Factors)

Echinacea Fresh Juice Extract

(Natural Factors)

Echinacea Tincture (Natural Factors)

Barley Grass (Nature’s Herbs)

Bilberry-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Black Walnut Hull (Nature’s Herbs)

Burdock (Nature’s Herbs)

Chlorella, Better (Nature’s Herbs)

Devil’s Claw Extract (Nature’s Herbs)

Echinacea-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Garlic, Odorless (Nature’s Herbs)

Golden Seal Root (Nature’s Herbs)

Licorice Phytosome (Nature’s Herbs)

Red Clover Combination (Nature’s Herbs)

Reishi Mushroom (Nature’s Herbs)

Shiitake Mushroom (Nature’s Herbs)

Yucca (Nature’s Herbs)

Ultra-Gar (Prairie Naturals)

Any joint can crack but knees most commonly so. The joints of the jaw are also highly susceptible, causing what is known as temperomandibular jaw syndrome. Most cracking joints are not painful, though it can be quite an uncomfortable sensation.

Causes

Cracking joints are the result of an imbalance in the body’s connective tissue, usually because of improper diet. Since muscles and connective tissue hold a joint in its correct position, any damage or strain to them will affect the joints. Glucosamine is a nutrient found naturally in the body, mostly in cartilage. A combination of glucose and amine, it is an ammonia derivative containing nitrogen and hydrogen atoms. With age, cartilage loses glucosamine, causing the cartilage to thin and eventually the joint becomes painful, stiff and swollen. Continued cracking of the same bones suggests a misalignment of the joint that is caused by muscle stiffness and under or overuse of certain muscle groups due to sports or bad posture. Over time, improper use of the joint can lead to arthritis. Extreme weather conditions can also affect joints when the body’s resistance is low.

Nutrition

Seafoods, such as mussels which contain mucopolysaccharides (also known as chondroitin sulphates), are of crucial importance for the alleviation of snapping, cracking joints. Eliminate white flour, sugar, coffee, tea, beef and pork from your diet. Instead, eat a large variety of vegetables and fruits. They contain the many vitamins and minerals that play a part in smooth joint movement. Eat lemons and oranges daily for vitamin C which can prevent rheumatic pain in the joints. Strawberries contain high amounts of salicylic acid, so they are an effective remedy for painful joint movement. Eat nothing but strawberries, about two to four pounds, for an entire day. This strawberry diet can be repeated once or twice a week.

Nutritional Supplements

Supplements will support healing. Vitamin C improves the lubrication of the fluid in the joints and helps prevent further injury. For knee cracking due to tightness, take vitamin E and coenzyme Q10 daily. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that improves circulation and repairs tissue. The vitamin-like substance coenzyme Q10 naturally exists in human tissue and declines with age. It also supports the immune system.

Glucosamine sulfates and chondroitin sulfates work well as anti-inflammatory agents and painkillers, and are effective for long-term treatment of chronic illnesses. In combination with proper diet and vitamins, they can rebuild damaged cartilage and help control enzymes that destroy cartilage, without producing side-effects. Most patients experience relief after taking glucosamine for six weeks.

Daily dosage:

Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids,

1,000 mg three times daily

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU

Coenzyme Q10, 400 mg

Glucosamine, 500 mg three times daily for four months

Herbal Remedies

To revitalize unhealthy connective tissue take horsetail as 1 tbsp. of juice, 3 cups of tea or 15 drops of tincture in water daily for two weeks, with a two-week break. Repeat if necessary. If using an aqueous extract, take 2–3 capsules three times daily.

Cat’s claw boosts the immune system and has a natural anti-inflammatory effect on rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Homeopathy

An experienced homeopath can provide a more in-depth treatment to achieve lasting results for recurring or persistent problems.

Tissue Salts

Tissue salt remedies are not applicable.

External/Physical Therapies

Daily stretching and warm up exercises are recommended for overall fitness, but especially for any joint which cracks. These measures will promote circulation and ensure that the joint is well supplied with nutrients for proper cellular repair.

Other Suggestions

If the joint persists in cracking, consider the possibility of a food allergy, or digestive enzyme deficiencies and absorption problems.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Glucosamine Sulfate (Albi)

Ascorbate/Non-acidic Vitamin C (Ester-C)

Calcium and Magnesium Citrate

(Natural Factors)

Glucosamine Sulfate (Natural Factors)

Shark Cartilage (Natural Factors)

OsteoPlus Glucosamine (Platinum)

Advanced Glucosamine Sulfate

(Quest Vitamins)

N-A-G (N-Acetyl Glucosamine)

(Quest Vitamins)

Premium Chondroitin and Glucosamine Sulfate (Quest Vitamins)

Ocean Formula (Scandinavian Naturals)

Glucosamine Sulfate plus Shark Cartilage (Sisu)

Herbal Remedies

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Green Magma (Green Foods)

Devil’s Claw Extract (Natural Factors)

Enriching Green Factors (Natural Factors)

Joint Ease (Natural Factors)

Muscle and Joint (Natural Factors)

Natural Pain Ease (Natural Factors)

Silica Extract (Natural Factors)

Cat’s Claw (Nature’s Herbs)

Devil’s Claw Extract (Nature’s Herbs)

Inflam-Aid (Nature’s Herbs)

Silica-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

Ultra-Sil (Prairie Naturals)

Inflamma-Force (Prairie Naturals)

Devil’s Claw 5:1 Extract (Prairie Naturals)

External Therapies

Glucosamine/Chondroitin Topical Gel

(Inno-Vite)

Itching is not a disorder in itself, but a symptom of another problem. Itching can develop as a small patch in a specific area or all over the body. Scratching will produce redness, bumps and even bleeding if the injury breaks the skin. Scratching can lead to infection.

Causes

If a skin rash or irritation goes with it, then itching is usually the result of a fungal, parasitic or scabies infection. It can also be part of an internal process such as chickenpox or measles; or a skin disorder, like eczema, psoriasis or dandruff. Allergies cause the skin to itch, even before an eruption appears. Excess toxins are eliminated through the skin, as it is the final detoxifying organ in the digestive process. Insect bites, especially from mosquitoes, or dry skin can be the problem due to a lack of essential fatty acids in the body, particularly in the elderly. In some cases, itchy skin can also be a sign of a more serious illness, like diabetes, leukemia or kidney failure, when other symptoms exist.

Itching can be a side-effect of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Jaundice from the back-up of bile will cause the skin to itch and turn yellow. If confined to the anal area, the cause is constipation, fissures, hemorrhoids or worms, and if situated in the genital area, it is often the result of a vaginal yeast infection, although a sexually transmitted disease like trichomoniasis should be ruled out. Itching is an early symptom of shingles (herpes zoster), a condition more common in people over the age of sixty. Another cause of itching is a deficiency in B vitamins (especially biotin), vitamin A, iron, selenium, silicon, zinc, essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It is not uncommon to find itching the result of psychological causes related to stress, drug abuse, alcohol or tobacco excesses.

Nutrition

As a first step in the treatment of itchy, dry skin, take at least two tablespoons of cold-pressed, unrefined flax seed oil daily on salads or baked potatoes. It can also be mixed with quark or put in any dish which does not require heating to a high temperature, as heating damages polyunsaturated fats. Flax seed oil is an excellent source of the essential polyunsaturated fatty acid omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid and also contains the essential fatty acid omega-6 linoleic acid. These fatty acids, which the body cannot manufacture itself, are essential for soft, healthy skin.

If the itchiness seems to be related to a nervous disorder, nutritional yeast will help. Nutritional yeast is a concentrated source of B vitamins which are vital for the nervous system and also help maintain healthy skin. Nutritional yeast flakes can be sprinkled onto cereal or mixed into sauces, soups or drinks like kefir. They are also available in a paste which can be spread on bread.

When itching is a symptom of iron deficiency, make sure the diet contains plenty of green, leafy vegetables, dried fruits, cherries, eggs and fish. Organ meats contain iron, but to be a healthy food they must come from animals which have been fed on grass in an uncontaminated environment. Blackstrap molasses is also an excellent source, but should only be eaten if it comes from sugar cane which has been grown without the use of fertilizers or pesticides.

Nutritional Supplements

Vitamins A and E are essential for skin rejuvenation and elasticity. Vitamin E is most helpful for dry, itchy skin, especially in the elderly. The B complex vitamins can be added if skin itching does not improve. B vitamins are essential for the nervous system to combat a number of skin conditions. Lactobacillus acidophilus capsules will help replenish the healthy bacterial flora needed for digestion and the immune system. Lactobacillus acidophilus is important when taking antibiotics, which deplete beneficial bacteria. If itching is due to a fungal infection, grapefruit seed extract is a virtually odorless antifungal to apply externally. Constipation results in flora overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract. Cultured dairy products like yogurt or kefir along with digestive enzymes and Lactobacillus acidophilus can reverse the imbalance and the attendant itching.

Daily dosages:

Most Important

Vitamin A, 25,000 IU

(avoid use during pregnancy)

Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU

Vitamin B complex, 100 mg or 3 tbsp. yeast supplements

Helpful

Lactobacillus acidophilus, 3 capsules or 1 tsp.

Grapefruit seed extract, 3 capsules three times daily

Digestive enzymes, 2 capsules with meals

Herbal Remedies

To relieve itching, address the root problem, which could be hormonal glands malfuction, liver or kidney disorders, eczema, diabetes, chronic constipation, worms or general nervous excitement. An unbearable itching is often a sign of a liver problem.

For itching caused by liver and gall-bladder problems, detoxify the organs with 1 tbsp. of black radish juice and 1 tbsp. of crushed flax seed soaked in 1/2 glass of water, milk or buttermilk. Drink three times daily for six to ten days.

To relieve general itchiness, drink stinging nettle tea.

Vervain is helpful for itching of a nervous origin. Take as tea or 1 tsp. of tincture in water, three times daily.

Horsetail, which contains silica, can help to relieve symptoms resulting from undernourished skin. Take as tea or capsules three times daily, or add 1 qt. of strong horsetail tea to bathwater.

Apply calendula salve to itchy areas.

To soothe itching in general, take camomile, peppermint, horsetail or oat straw baths.

Diluted peppermint oil has an anesthetic action if rubbed on skin.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy treats the underlying causes of itching. See related conditions such as dandruff, eczema and rash for remedies. For recurring or persistent problems, an experienced homeopath can provide a more thorough treatment to produce long-term results.

Tissue Salts

These tissue salts will provide relief from itching. If the itching can be traced to a specific cause, i.e. dandruff, eczema, fungal infection, psoriasis or rash, look up remedies from the appropriate section. If the cause is not obvious, use one of the following, taking 4 tablets three times daily.

Calc phos will help itching that occurs without the appearance of a rash.

Kali phos promotes the healing of rashes which crawl and itch.

Nat phos treats the acid state of the blood that causes itching.

Nat sulph is indicated if itching is present while undressing.

External/Physical Therapies

Sulfur baths help relieve itching.

Soak a cotton ball in concentrated liquid whey and dab on itchy areas.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Flax Oil (Flora)

Flax-O-Mega 1000 mg (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend (Flora)

Udo’s Choice: Ultimate Oil Blend Capsules (Flora)

Flax Seed Oil 1000 mg (Natural Factors)

Flax Seed Oil Liquid (Natural Factors)

Wild Salmon Oil (Natural Factors)

Grapefruit Seed Extract (Nutribiotics)

Herbal Remedies

FloraSil (Flora)

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Schoenenberger Black Radish Cellular

Plant Juice (Flora)

Silica Extract 500 mg (Natural Factors)

Nettle Leaf (Nature’s Herbs)

Silica-Power (Nature’s Herbs)

External Therapies

Rescue Cream/Bach Flower Remedies

(Bach-Karooch Ltd)

Molkosan (Bioforce)

Camomile Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Lavender Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Patchouli Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)

Hypothermia is low body temperature, usually due to being out in cold weather with insufficient clothing. Local symptoms of hypothermia are frostbite and chilblains. Although shivering is the first sign of getting chilled, and it helps to warm the body, this coping mechanism stops as hypothermia becomes more serious. Symptoms of severe hypothermia include exhaustion, dullness and confusion. If the body’s temperature continues to fall, breathing and heartbeat slow down and hallucinations occur until consciousness is lost.

Causes

Exposure to cold is the cause of hypothermia, but a number of factors increase susceptibility. Getting wet and exhausted and remaining still increase the chances of hypothermia. Young children and the elderly are slower to cope with the cold. Being more susceptible, they should be particularly well equipped in cold temperatures. Alcohol and drugs also reduce the body’s ability to cope with the cold, and increase risks. Other contributing factors include hunger, dehydration and wind-chill.

Nutrition

Hot tea or milk with honey will help the body recover from hypothermic shock. Do not under any circumstances give alcoholic beverages to a person suffering from hypothermia, as this will dangerously aggravate the condition. Cayenne pepper is a natural vasodilator, which opens the blood vessels and promotes circulation.

Nutritional Supplements

See frostbite and chilblains for tissue salt remedies for appropriate supplements.

Herbal Remedies

• Warm the victim from the inside with a warm ginger tea. Ginger is a mild and effective circulation stimulant and brings blood to the stomach. Do not drink the tea boiling hot though, as it might promote sweating, which results in the loss of body heat.

Homeopathy

Consult an experienced homeopath if the condition does not improve after taking Cuprum.

• For hypothermia with cramps, take Cuprum, 6c, every ten minutes for up to ten doses.

Tissue Salts

See frostbite and chilblains for tissue salt remedies.

External/Physical Therapies

• As quickly as possible, remove the source of cold and re-warm the person. Get the victim indoors and lying down. Remove wet clothes and dry the body.

• Wrap the victim in dry blankets or, better yet, put in a sleeping bag with another person.

• Apply hot-water bottles to the side of the chest.