Acu-Na Wellness Center

Dr. Mary’s Corner

Oregano Oil
Medicinal Properties &Uses: The primary components of the Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol. The components give Oregano oil its fungicidal and worm-expellant properties, and constitute about 90% of the oil. Clinical tests have shown that the primary component carvacrol reduces infections, including staph, as effectively as traditional antibiotics. Oregano is a very versatile plant and is considered diaphoretic, carminative, antispasmodic, antiseptic, and tonic. One of the active properties, tannin, gives Oregano its astringency. Used as a body wash, it firms connective tissues of the skin. A decoction of Oregano leaves is effective in the treatment of dry coughs such as colic. It is used in the treatment of asthma, diabetes, conjunctivitis, and dyspepsia. Oregano can be used topically to relieve burns and insect bites, and to treat acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Women who have problems with their menstruation and those who’ve just experienced childbirth are often given a decoction of Oregano leaves for relief. It has also been proven as a remedy for genito-urinary disorders and helps circulation of blood throughout the body. Oregano oil can be used in a bath to relief muscle stiffness or used topically to sooth aching joints. Oregano is also used to treat toothaches and sore throats.

Internally: 1-4 drops, two or three times daily. May be diluted in water. Four drops contain 25.8 mg carvacrol. Externally, apply liberally as needed. Shake well before using. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. A normal tingling sensation may be noticed when applied externally. Avoid contact with genitals.

BLACK WALNUT

Medicinal Properties &Uses: While there are those who say that Black Walnut hulls can effectively reduce the risks of heart attacks, it is more widely known for its anti-parasitic qualities. It is said to have effectively killed more than 100 known parasites. It has been proven to be a strong natural remedy for the treatment of acne, thyroid disease, colitis, eczema, hemorrhoids, ringworm, sore throats, tonsillitis, skin irritations, and wounds.

Dosage: 20-40 drops in juice or water, 2 times daily or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Keep out of reach of children.

BURDOCK ROOT

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Properties of Burdock Root are alterative, diuretic and diaphoretic. Considered to be one of the best blood purifiers, it is also used externally for the treatment of most skin ailments. It is very useful in the treatment of boils, scurvy and rheumatic affections because of anti-scorbutic properties in the root. Its mucilaginous and demulcent qualities have also made it highly recommended for external use in the treatment of ulcers and scaly skin disorders.

Dosage: 30-60 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Keep out of reach of children.

CORDYCEPS

Medicinal Properties &Uses:In Chinese medicine, Cordyceps fungus is touted as a very effective herb for treating circulatory, respiratory, immune, sexual dysfunction, and a host of other health problems. Because of it’s ability to improve energy, stamina, appetite, endurance, and sleeping patterns, it has also been classified as a general health tonic. Cordyceps prevents allergies, depression, and colds and flu by enhancing adrenal and lung energy. It is recommended for people who feel short of breath, achy, or depressed from overwork, pollution, and bad dietary habits. It provides remarkable benefits for cirrhosis, impotence, neurasthenia, rheumatoid arthritis, flabby waist and knee. It is also effective in lowering the lipoproteinemia level, and in preventing arterio-sclerosis and coronary heart disease, as well as certain other diseases related to blood vessels of the brain. In traditional Chinese medicine, Cordyceps is used for the kidney and lungs meridians. Cordyceps also increases levels of natural-antioxidants and is believed to promote longevity. This fungus also has the ability to increase the ATP (Adenosine Tri-Phosphate) production in human cell’s mitochondria which is known to increase energy levels in those who use it. It is especially good for people who are involved in athletics or enjoy vigorous sports. Athletes who used Cordyceps in their training programs surprised everyone including sports authorities when they broke the 10,000 meter World track record in 1993 and shattered dozens of world records in just one year.

Dosage: 30-60 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily, or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Do not take during pregnancy or while nursing. Keep out of the reach of children.

GARLIC

Medicinal Properties &Uses: It has been known for quite some time that garlic is a natural immune system enhancer. The active properties, sulphur compound allicin, ajoene, allyl sulfides, and vinyldithiins, help the body fight off infections and bacteria. Garlic is also known to enhance the body’s immunity from colds and flu. It has been proven effective in lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol. The active ingredient allicin is effective in helping to promote proper circulation throughout the body. Garlic can drop the level of cholesterol in the blood by 15% when taken for 2 months or more. When Garlic is taken as a supplement and combined with a positive diet change, blood cholesterol levels can drop enough to reduce heart attack risk by 30%. Studies have confirmed that garlic is effective against bacteria, yeasts. and fungi. Garlic can be safely taken for mild, recurring or chronic infections which are not dangerous such as infections of the mouth, ears, throat, colds, and especially candida. Other benefits to using Garlic are stress reduction, blood purification, and anticoagulant effects.

Dosage: 15-40 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily, or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Do not take while nursing. Keep out of reach of children.

GINGER

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Ginger has a diversity of uses. Widely used as an alternative medicine, wild Ginger contains the valuable constituent aristolochic acid. Studies show that it has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, antitumor activity, and that it even cures warts in some cases. Aristolochic is also oral contraceptive, spermicidal, and immunostimulant. It is a broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal. It is well known for alleviating nausea due to motion sickness, pregnancy, and other reasons. It is also a digestive aid. It increases digestive enzymes which, in turn, increase the time it takes to digest food. Because Ginger inhibits certain prostaglandins, it is effective in alleviating the pain and reducing inflammation in arthritic joints. Research shows that its properties increase circulation and vasodilates blood to the peripheral tissues. It can warm the extremities, and promote sweating which detoxifies the body and helps sweat out a fever. High blood pressure may be lowered with the use of Ginger. Other constituents in the root are Alpha-Terpineol, Beta-Sitosterol, Geraniol, Methyl-Eugenol, and Limonene making it useful as a motor-depressant, sedative, and expectorant. It is also effective in treating many types of chest complaints, colds and flu, painful gas cramps, and colic in children. It can be used as a gargle to treat sore throat and laryngitis, sore gums, and bad breath. As it is highly antiseptic, Ginger can be made into a paste and used topically to treat skin infections, insect bites, and burns.

Dosage: 10-30 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily, or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Do not use during pregnancy. Keep out of reach of children.

AMERICAN GINSENG

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Ginseng’s medicinal properties have been touted for thousands of years. Used extensively in Native American medicine, American Ginseng has proven to increase vigor, energy, vitality, and resistance to illness and environmental stresses. It is indicated for extremely active people, and those who are overworked and stressed out. Ginseng increases the stress hormone ACTH from the pituitary that helps the body adapt to stress. The major constituents in American Ginseng are Triterpenoid saponins Ginsenosides, Acetylenic compounds, Panaxans, and Sesquiterpenes. It is a very powerful medicinal herb that both relaxes and stimulates the nervous system. It encourages secretion of hormones; the ginsenosides are very similar to the body’s own natural stress hormones. It has been shown to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and, because it stimulates and increases endocrine activity in the body, to improve stamina. Ginseng promotes a mild increase in metabolic activity, relaxes heart and artery movements, stimulates the medulla centers, and relaxes the central nervous system. American Ginseng is effective in the treatment of debility associated with old age or illness because it increases the body’s immune functions. It is helpful with insomnia, stress, chronic illness, and supports liver functions. The leaf of American Ginseng is emetic and expectorant. Ginseng is excellent in treating depression in the elderly who might not be chemically depressed, but who may need extra energy to enjoy life again. Taken over an extended period of time, Ginseng is used to increase mental and physical performance. It is medicinal and therapeutic for the whole body.

Dosage: 15-30 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily, or as needed. Cautions & Interactions: Keep out of reach of children.

HAWTHORN BERRY

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Hawthorne is quickly becoming well known for its effects on the cardiovascular system, specifically the heart. Hawthorne has three major effects on the heart. First, it improves coronary circulation. The flavonoids and proanthocyanidins in the HawthorneBerry are powerful antioxidants that exert a beneficial effect on blood vessels. It helps to increase the cardiac output of blood volume and increase the efficiency of the heart. This helps improve the oxygen flow to the heart muscle itself (hypoxaemia) and helps alleviate the pain associated with angina. Second, the heart muscle is strengthened.Hawthorne Berry is very effective in the treatment of patients with congestive heart failure. It also helps decrease high blood pressure by making the heart more efficient at pumping blood. Third, studies have shown that Hawthornecan normalize cardiac arrhythmias. It is especially effective in studies that involved arrhythmic tachycardia and paroxysmal tachycardia. Additionally, since HawthorneBerry is known to have a relaxing effect on the cardiovascular system and reducing blood pressure, it is a helpful treatment for patients who suffer from hypertension.

Dosage: 10-30 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Keep out of reach of children.

LICORICE ROOT

Medicinal Properties &Uses: The chief substance in Licorice Root is glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is a sweet, white crystalline powder consisting of the calcium and potassium salts of glycyrrhizic acid. It has been studied for its anti-viral properties in the treatment of AIDS. In clinical trials inJapan, glycyrrhizin prevented progression of the HIV virus by inhibiting cell infection and inducing interferon activity. Other substances found in the root include starch, gum, protein, fat, resin, asparagin, a trace of tannin, and a small amount of volatile oil. Glycyrrhizin has a marked effect upon the endocrine system. Its glycosides are structurally similar to the natural steroids of the body. Licorice is a popular remedy for cough, some complications of tuberculosis, and many chest complaints such as bronchitis and catarrh. Because of its soothing properties, it often is used in cough medicines. It is also highly regarded as a soothing ingredient for sore throat and laryngitis. Glycyrrhizin is 50 times stronger than sucrose, which encourages the production of hormones such as hydrocortisone. This helps to explain its anti-inflammatory action which accounts for its use in the treatment of chronic inflammations such as arthritic and rheumatic diseases, chronic skin conditions, and autoimmune diseases in general. The second most prescribed herb in China, Licorice Root is used in the treatment of spleen, liver, and kidney ailments, and to strengthen and balance the female reproductive system. Some compounds found in Licorice are thought to help the adrenal glands function more smoothly in conditions of stress and exhaustion. The adrenal glands are responsible for hormones that keep the body systems balanced. The solidified Licorice extract forms the basis of many laxatives. It stimulates bile flow with a gentle action in constipation. Glycyrrhiza can be used as a non-sucrose sweetener, and can be taken safely by diabetics. Dosage: 30-60 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed. Shake well before using. Cautions & Interactions: Do not take during pregnancy or while nursing. Keep out of reach of children. Caution is you have high blood pressure as it may increase it.

MILK THISTLE

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Milk Thistle contains cholagogue which stimulates the flow of bile, and galactagogue. It also contains the flavanoid silymarin which has antioxidant capabilities, and has shown a direct effect on liver cells. The active chemical component in the herb is silybin, which functions as an antioxidant and is one of the most potent liver protective agents known. Clinical trials have proven silybin to be effective in treating chronic liver diseases and in protecting the liver from toxic chemicals. As such, Milk Thistle is an excellent tonic for the liver and helps protect it from degeneration, and is actually capable of repairing damaged cells. Because of the bile-producing cholagogue, fats are broken down, thereby protecting the liver against toxic damage from nicotine, drugs, alcohol, and environmental toxins such as carbon monoxide. Additionally, Milk Thistle helps to lower elevated liver enzymes and help prevent cirrhosis and necrotic liver damage. It can be used long-term with no adverse effects as it is non-toxic. It is especially effective in protecting the liver and assisting it in detoxing from the results of chemotherapy. This herb is an excellent tool in combating hepatitis and inflammation of the liver. Milk Thistle is recommended for all smokers or anyone exposed to secondhand smoke and other pollutants. It is also a stimulant, a demulcent, and an antidepressant, and has anti-inflammatory properties. As such, it is supportive to many therapies for patients with autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid, swollen prostate, asthma, psoriasis, and eczema. Additionally, an injection of Milk Thistle’s active component silybin is a proven antidote for poisoning with the Deathcap mushroom (Amanita phalloides).

Dosage: 30-60 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed. Cautions & Interactions: Keep out of reach of children.

TUMERIC

Medicinal Properties &Uses: Tumeric, a powerful anti-inflammatory, is used for all auto-immune disorders, including lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, asthma, and arthritis. It is a liver cooler that arrests cirrhosis and stops necrosis of the liver. As such, it is an excellent treatment for alcoholics, and those with elevated liver enzymes, including Hepatitis C. As it increases bile, Tumeric helps in fat digestion. Additionally, it is an effective treatment where cortico-steroid drug use is indicated such as colitis, bursitis, and Crohn’s Disease.

Dosage: 20-40 drops in water or juice, 2-3 times daily or as needed. Cautions & Interactions: Do not take during pregnancy. Keep out of reach of children.

* SAGE: According to the great herbalist Jethro Kloss, the world would be inordinately more healthy if people learned to drink sage tea before breakfast, rather than that morbid black tar called coffee. Sage benefits the heart and arteries, prevents varicose veins, cleanses the liver of toxins, and prevent atherosclerosis. It is THE herb for diabetics, preventing leg ulcers and other circulatory problems. A cup of sage tea will quickly take someone out of depression. The American Indians used it for all lung problems by inhaling its fumes when steeped. And, if you have any kind of rash or skin problem, you start drinking sage tea internally. It is an excellent cleanser of the body’s sweat glands, good for teenage acne and pimples, etc. But one note, skin problems may appear to get temporarily worse, before they get better. It’s nature’s way of cleansing the body. So, drink sage tea, and repent away those cheese burgers, cheese whizzes, and cheese sandwiches. * ROSEMARY: According to the famous French herbalist, Messegue, Rosemary has the power to restore youth. It is a tonic for the eyes as well as the sexual organs. When drank for long periods, it will improve sight and mind. Anytime someone gets sick with vomiting, give them rosemary tea to calm the stomach. Also if someone is suffering from a “liver headache,” the type with gas, bloating, or the hangover type. It is wonderful for most any kind of headache. * YARROW: Some herbalists acclaim this to be one of the greatest herbs on earth. Achillea Millefoil by its Latin binomial, was used extensively by the Roman soldiers, knowing of its power to stop bleeding wounds, to impart strength as a tonic, and to cure jaundice. You make it with a 1/2 teaspoon per cup, a little honey to taste. Yarrow is one of our great detoxifiers, cleansing the liver and blood. For people who bleed and bruise easily, no finer herb could be used as morning tea. This is your herb for sinus headache and allergy. For female glandular problems, it is mixed well with raspberry leaf and will regulate or stimulate menstruation. * PEACH TREE LEAVES: A famous American Indian herbalist has based his entire career on the wonderful virtues of this plant. For anyone who has taken too many antibiotics, sludging up the liver, reducing daily evacuations, fouling up the healthy flora of your bowels, peach tea is your answer. This herb gathers up toxins and rids them out of the body. In herbalism, we call this our ‘herbal tetanus shot,’ to be drank anytime you received a wound from a rusty nail, sharp instrument, or even dog bite. And if there’s bleeding? You guessed it, add a pinch to the cup of Yarrow. Now for digestive problems, like gas and bloat, go on a program of drinking a tea cup before eating. Yes, some of the virtues will be drowned out, but its your best herbal digest aid, especially if diabetic. * THYME: for the thymus, as the saying goes. Thyme is an all purpose antibiotic, not only does its essential oil kill bad bacteria, it also stimulates the thymus gland, our number gland to ward us off the dangers of ever increasing cancer mortality. Thyme tea is equal to peach leaves in resolving gas and bloat. For congested sinuses with cold and mucus, thyme tea is most helpful. It is a virtuous herb for children’s cough and asthma, especially if associated with parasites. Thyme is one of our great, antiparasiticals, and should be drank freely by those who prefer meat over vegetables. By: Dr. Charles McWilliams, my mentor.

The Importance of Having Gratitude!

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity…. It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Thank you, Melodie Beattie, Writer