Arnica is a perfect example of a natural remedy and gentile topical treatment to soothe muscles, reduce inflammation and heal wounds. Arnica (Arnica montana) is a perennial herb found in East Asia, Europe, the northern United States, and Canada and has been used for medicinal purposes since the 1500s.

Medicinal Uses and Indications

Arnica is used topically for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Bruises
• Fevers
• Inflammation
• Osteoarthritis
• Pain
• Skin disorders
• Sprains
• Burns
• Sore muscles

“Rejuvenated in my recovery I praise this herb most highly, yet in truth it is nature who praises herself, she who is truly inexhaustible, who creates this flower with its healing powers, and in doing so once more proclaims herself to be eternally procreative.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, on Arnica after it relieved his severe chest pains (due to a heart condition which eventually took his life). Goethe credited Arnica with saving his life so that he could write the second volume of his autobiography.

In his book, Homeopathic Treatment of Sports Injuries, Dr. Lyle Morgan states: “Arnica should be considered first in all cases of physical injury.” He lists Arnica’s benefits throughout the book, including: “Arnica works quickly to repair damaged blood vessels, to reduce swelling at the site of the injury, and to eliminate pain.”

In his book, Musculoskeletal Healing, homeopath Asa Hershoff states:“Arnica is the most renowned trauma remedy, and is without equal as the primary remedy for injury of any kind whatsoever.”

Post fall older adult leg, all x rays were negative and RICE was the only treatment prescribed. This is prior to Arnica treatment.

Anyone working with older adults can confirm the devastating effects a simple fall with post bruising can cause for an older adult. They become non-ambulatory,  often leading to staying in a wheelchair for safety and institutionalized. In searching for a remedy to prevent this decline, I discovered Arnica, and decided to make a salve of organic, chemical free Arnica for our older adult clients. Bruises (or what medical doctors call “contusions”) occur when you get injured and break tiny blood vessels in the skin. These blood vessels or “capillaries”, leak into the surrounding tissue and as red blood cells gather, you can see discoloration in the area. What starts off as a red-purple injury becomes green or yellow as the body works to heal the region and metabolize or gobble up the mass of escaped red blood cells.

2 weeks post Arnica treatment 2 times a day, within a month there was no signs of bruising or hard tissue

Despite all their falls, young children bruise less readily as they have resilient blood vessels that don’t break easily.  Older people, especially those on certain medications, have delicate vessels; some find black and blue marks so frequently that they are forever wondering where the injuries come from and what it was they last bumped into. Medications that prevent blood clotting (like Coumadin) and prescription drugs that make blood vessels more fragile (like Prednisone) often contribute to the number of bruises one has.  Frequently,  the body will wall off the region instead of sending cells in to do the clean up work. When this occurs the blood pools and the area swells and becomes tender. If calcium is deposited, a bony condition called myositis ossificans can occur and the tissue becomes sensitive to touch and hard.The natural chemicals found in Arnica help to heal or prevent these unwanted complications. Flavonoids decrease the permeability of the blood vessels and polysaccharideas stimulate the process by which helper-cells clean the tissue of unwanted debris.

Even with the utmost caution, accidents will happen at home, on the field, in the gym, and in the workplace. However, with Arnica on hand and these tips in mind, you can speed the healing and prevent long-term disability that often accompanies bruises and physical trauma. So be sure to have a supply of Arnica in your kitchen cabinet, desk drawer, purse and gym bag. Then, you too will be able to experience the beneficial healing effects that Arnica has provided since mountain climbers discovered it centuries ago.

Organic Dried Arnica Montana

How I prepare Arnica – Pain Remedy From Nature

I purchase organic Arnica Montana, since it is native to the Mountains of Europe and Asia preferring higher elevations and  not able to be grown in my backyard in Pittsburgh.

Organic Coconut oil for mixing

For mixing other remedies, I always have on hand Organic Coconut oil.

Step 1:

Heat the organic coconut oil to melt; I use a small electric fondue pot to make all my salve’s.

Step 2:

Add the Arnica Montana dried flowers and leave to cook for 48-72 hours. The Arnica flowers will diffuse into the coconut oil, changing it to a light brown color. The oil is a solvent for the medicinal properties of the herb and provides a healing, emollient base.

 Step 3:

After 72 hours, I allow the Arnica infused oil to cool so that I can touch it. Then I use a cheesecloth draped over a pan to strain out the arnica infused coconut oil, squeezing the excess oil out and discarding the flowers into my compost heap.

Step 4:

I then place the arnica infused coconut oil back into the electric fondue pot and slowly add the organic Beeswax pellets which adds a soothing, protective quality and provides the firmness needed to form a salve. This is heated until the beeswax is completely melted. To check for proper consistency, I dip a spoon into the mixture and pull it out immediately to test the consistency. If it is too soft, I add more beeswax.

Step 5:

Once the consistency is just right, I allow the Arnica infused organic coconut oil mixed with the beeswax to cool for about 5 minutes. I then add 2 types of organic essential oils  that also have anti inflammatory properties and blend them into the mixture. I then infuse each container with Reiki energy from the universe to offer additional healing properties. Next,  I pour the mixture into 2 oz. and 4 oz. containers and place a lid on immediately. It will form into a salve consistency in less than 5 minutes. If placed in a cool environment (like air conditioning) the salve will form a harder consistency. Just remove some of of the salve and warm it in your hand to regain the salve consistency.

This organic Arnica is available for purchase at our office. The 2 oz. container is $10 and the 4 oz. is $15. Shipping and handling charges adds an additional $5 – $7.

This article was written by Barbara Kolonay RN BSN MS, Certified Care Manager, Certified Holistic Nurse, Certified Clinical  Aromatherapist, Herbalist, Reiki, and owner of Holistic Aging  where we recognize the importance of caring for the whole person, offering alternative and non-invasive methods to encourage natural healing. Our older adult and disability LIFE CARE MANAGEMENT division – Options For Elder Care – guides and offers solutions to families allowing their family member to age well.

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Getting to sleep and staying asleep is like solving a personal puzzle; it is different for each person and determining what piece of the puzzle will give you a good night’s rest is crucial to function at your best.

Sleep is an important aspect of all our lives, without it we fall behind and build up harmful chemicals in the brain. Sleep is an important cleanse for our minds that is necessary for our survival. The new year is the perfect time to tackle our bad habits or issues so, this year let’s start with insomnia.

Follow these home remedies to fall asleep naturally and stay asleep as well as promote muscle relaxation.

1. Epson Salt Bath:

Epson salts is made of magnesium sulfate. Besides being a natural muscle relaxant, magnesium helps to regulate blood sugar by assisting cells in producing energy from glucose. Releasing muscle tension is a key element in allowing the body to initiate the relaxation response and because the metabolism-supportive benefits of magnesium help to produce cellular energy, your blood sugar can be better stabilized—this is essential for maintaining balanced hormonal levels that help you sleep.

• I recommend adding baking soda, another powerful sleep aid. C02 in baking soda supports healthy REM sleep—which in turn promotes healthy sleep and keeps stress hormones at bay.
• You may also want to add a few drops of essential oils of Lavender, Ylang-Ylang or Chamomile to your bath to heighten the relaxing effect and promote sleep.
• Don’t have a full tub? Try a foot bath instead!
  

2. Mindful Meditation:

This is especially helpful if you find your mind racing or preoccupied, which many people with insomnia do. The idea is to continue to redirect your attention to your breathing and your body any time you find yourself lost in thought. When you let thoughts go and simply keep your attention on your breathing, you are better able to welcome sleep. To start your Meditation journey, you may consider one of the below:

1. Headspace: This App Walks you through your entire mindfulness journey step-by-step
2. Stop, Breath and Think: This has a specific “Falling Asleep” App
3. U-Tube Body Scan: Guided Body Scan Meditation for Mind & Body Healing by Michael Sealey

3. Herbs/Supplements:

• Valerian (Valerina Officinilas):

Studies cited by the National Institutes of Health report benefits similar to pharmaceutical preparations, such as Xanax, without the side effects. Herbalists use valerian extensively for its sedative action against insomnia, nervousness, and restlessness. It is recommended for those type of people who have a hard time falling asleep, because it shortens sleep latency. It also reduces nighttime waking. You can take Valerian in a tea, tincture form, or oral herbal supplement.

• Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis):

As a time-honored sedative herb, chamomile is commonly used for insomnia and restlessness combined with irritability, particularly in children. Chamomile flowers can be consumed in a tea, or Chamomile essential oil can also be put in bath water (5-6 drops), diluted to 2% to make an excellent massage oil, or used as an inhalant.

• Wild lettuce:

If you’ve suffered anxiety, headaches, or muscle or joint pain, you might already be familiar with wild lettuce. It’s also effective at calming restlessness and reducing anxiety—and may even quell restless legs syndrome.

• Hops (Humulus lupulus):

Beer fans will no doubt be familiar with the calming effect of hops, the flowers used in beer making.  In the early 1900’s physicians used hops as a sedative specifically for sleeplessness, nervousness, and restlessness. Hops pillows are sometimes used for mild insomnia.

• L-theanine:

This amino acid comes from green tea and not only helps maintain a calm alertness during the day but also a deeper sleep at night.

• Melatonin or in its natural state of Cherry Juice:

Cherry juice acts as an amazing natural medicine for sleep. This is because it contains high levels of melatonin, the hormone that helps in regulating the body’s sleep-wake cycles and promoting restful sleep. Melatonin puts the body to sleeping mode by bringing forth drowsiness and lowering the body temperature. Imbalance of the hormone melatonin in the body can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle and lead to lack of sleep and Insomnia.

4. Mantram

Mantram is the practice of repeating over and over in the mind certain syllables, words or phrases that help unify consciousness and counteract negative mental states. It is especially helpful for people with restless minds, whose turbulent thoughts keep them from relaxing, concentrating and falling asleep. It is especially useful as an antidote when waking up and your mind starts racing. The repetition of a mantram is a way to calm the body, quiet the mind and to restore the spirit; is a way of focusing the thinking mind and counteracting thoughts that produce anxiety, agitation and unhappiness.

You can practice mantram anywhere, especially as a sleep aid and a natural remedy for insomnia – it is a totally portable technique, requires no training or equipment, and can be used in any circumstance, so long as you don’t practice it while doing something that otherwise requires your undivided attention. Choose a mantram that appeals to you or offers strength, support and is compatible with your religious background and/or spiritual beliefs. Some people have no difficulty choosing a mantram, such as when a word or phrase jumps out at them immediately. Others have to “try it on” and practice repeating it silently for a few days or even weeks, to see how it feels.

List of recommended Mantrams:

• Om mani padme hum (Ohm mah-nee pahd-may hume)  = An invocation to the jewel (Self), in the lotus of the heart
• Namo Butsaya (Nah-mo Boot-see-yah) = I bow to the Buddha
• My God and My All = St. Francis of Assisi’s phrase
• Kyrie Eleison (Kir-ee-ay Ee-lay-ee-sone) = Lord have mercy
• Christe Eleison (Kreest-ay Ee-lay-ee-sone) = Christ have mercy
• Hail Mary or Ave Maria = Mother of Jesus
• Om Namah Shivaya (Ohm Nah-mah Shee-vah-yah) = Invocation to beauty and fearlessness
• Shalom (Shah-lome) = Peace, completeness
• Om Prema (Ohm Pray-Mah) = A call for universal love
• Om Shanti (Ohm Shawn-tee) = Invocation to eternal peace
• So Hum (So Hum) = I am that Self within
• O Wakan Tanka (Wah-Kahn Tahn-Kah) = Great Spirit

Before you rush to the drugstore to buy an over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medication, try one a natural sleep remedies. “These are safer and have fewer side effects than OTC medications,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, author of From Fatigued to Fantastic and medical director of the National Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers.

Hopefully, these few natural pieces of the puzzle will help you to fall and stay asleep.

The post Insomnia – Home Remedies to Fall Asleep Naturally appeared first on Holistic Aging.

Geriatric medical organizations have long warned against over-prescribing to older people, who are more susceptible to common side effects of psychotropic drugs, such as dizziness and confusion.  These symptoms lead to further decline in cognition, falls, and increased anxiety.These neuroleptics and antidepressants frequently make people look and act apathetic, zombie-like as if they’ve been lobotomized — even at moderate or low doses.

What’s really going on?

For more than 20 years, the American Geriatrics Society has published “Beers Criteria” which lists dozens of potentially inappropriate drugs and their mutual interactions. Unfortunately, inappropriate prescribing in older people is even more common than previously thought according to a recent study.

Prescription rates of drugs like antidepressants, sleeping pills and painkillers nonetheless generally increased in older people, previous studies have found. The new report captures one important fact; the rise in so-called poly-pharmacy — three drugs or more — is happening in primary care.

“I was stunned to see this, that despite all the talk about how poly-pharmacy is bad for older people, this rate has doubled,” said Dr. Dilip Jeste, a professor of psychiatry and neurosciences at the University of California, San Diego.

The research team, led by Dr. Donovan T. Maust of the University of Michigan and Dr. Mark Olfson of Columbia University, analyzed data from annual government surveys of office-based doctors. The team focused on office visits by people 65 or older that resulted in the prescribing of at least three of a list of psychiatric, sleep and pain medications like Risperidone, Valium, Prozac, OxyContin and Ambien. It found that the overall number of such visits increased to 3.68 million in 2013 from 1.5 million in 2004 — nearly a 150 percent increase, partly because the population is aging but mostly because of an increased percentage of prescribing multiple medications.

So what is the answer? It is very important an older adult have an advocate who is well versed in the dangers of poly-pharmacology and is aware of alternatives that are safer and effective. The RN Life Care Managers of Holistic Aging fit this profile and provide this service to any interested client.

Natural Ways to Treat Depression

There are a number of safe and effective ways to address anxiety and depression that do not involve drugs. Let’s take a look at a few natural methods to consider before reaching for and taking another pill.

1. Diet

Eat real organic food, as close to its original source as possible. Avoid all processed foods, sugar (particularly fructose), grains and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Try eating a Gluten free diet as gluten has been directly linked to symptoms of depression. When you consume foods high in carbohydrates and sugars this leads to excessive insulin release. This starts a hypoglycemic cycle that can lend to agitation, anxiety, depression and panic attacks.

Reducing gut inflammation is imperative when addressing mental health issues. Increase consumption of traditionally fermented and cultured foods which can reduce gut inflammation, promote a healthy gut flora, and add healthy probiotics. Consume food such as sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi, and miso soup. New research from Lund University in Sweden has shown that certain types of intestinal bacteria can accelerate the development of Alzheimer’s disease. 

2. Get adequate Vitamin B12

Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.

When you get older, the lining of your stomach gradually loses its ability to produce hydrochloric acid. This acid releases vitamin B12 from your food. If you’re over 50, it’s safe to assume you are not absorbing vitamin B12 at an optimal level.

With the long term usage of Proton Pump inhibitors and other antacids 3/5^th of the population over the age of 50 is B12 deficient.

3. Optimize your Vitamin D levels

Vitamin D is very important for your mood. Your body actually makes most of its vitamin D from sunshine; vitamin D levels have been shown to be the lowest during the month of February for American’s. According to one recent study, seniors who have low vitamin D levels may double their risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and were 11 times more prone to depression.

Check your Vitamin D level at least once a year.  You’ll want to be within the therapeutic range of 40 to 60 ng/mL (100 to 150 nmol/L) year-round. If you cannot get sufficient sun exposure to maintain this level, taking an oral vitamin D3 supplement would be advisable. Also increase your vitamin K2 and magnesium when taking oral vitamin D.

4. Mindfulness Meditation

We can’t control our emotions, and the more that we try to stop anxiety, or sadness, or fear from coming up, the more it comes up. Mindfulness is paying precise, nonjudgmental attention to the details of our experience as it arises and subsides, doesn’t reject anything. Instead of struggling to get away from experiences we find difficult, we practice being able to be with them. We begin to realize that our thoughts and emotions are not who we are, and from this observing stance, we begin to create space for these difficult experiences to be as they are, where they already are. The amazing thing is that often, once a person stops spending all their energy on fighting how they feel, and get clear on what they really want their life to stand for, they become free to do things that really matter to them.

5. Get adequate daily exercise

Most people agree there is strong correlation between mood and exercise. However, did you know that, exercise might be an acceptable substitute for antidepressants? See this study in Health Harvard .

Exercising creates new GABA-producing neurons that help induce a natural state of calm. It also boosts your levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which help buffer the effects of stress.

6. Get enough sleep

Evidence suggests that people with insomnia have a ten-fold risk of developing depression compared with those who sleep well. When you don’t get the 7-9 hours of quality sleep you need, it can heavily influence your outlook on life, energy level, motivation, and emotions. Here are some recommendations on getting a good night’s sleep.

7. Emotional Freedom Techniques (sometimes called Tapping)

Recent research has shown EFT significantly increases positive emotions, such as hope and enjoyment, and decreases negative emotional states. The basic premise is that the cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body’s energy system, which is the centerpiece of eastern medicine.  When the energy in our body is flowing normally, we feel great; when it becomes stagnant or obstructed, this causes disruptions along the energy meridians. That damage leads to negative or damaging emotions which can develop into physical symptoms.  Tapping with your fingers on meridian points corrects these imbalances. At the same time, tapping tunes into the underlying issue. When done properly, the emotional factors that contribute to the problem are typically released along with the energy blocks.

EFT is particularly powerful for treating stress and anxiety because it specifically targets your amygdala and hippocampus, parts of your brain that help you decide whether or not something is a threat.

The post Natural Ways to Treat Depression appeared first on Holistic Aging.

The importance of a diagnosis

First things first is knowing the importance of the diagnosis. Regular visits to your primary provider can help you stay on top of your health including catching diabetes to make an early diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, don’t let it discourage you from living a happy and healthy life.

What changes should you make this month?

Get more exercise – You can improve your health and lower your risk of diabetes by increasing your exercise. You can increase your exercise by doing simple things like taking the stairs instead of taking the elevator. 

Sleep a little more – You can also improve your health by getting more sleep. Not getting enough sleep can increase insulin resistance. This means your body requires more insulin to get glucose into your cells. Lack of sleep will lead to higher blood glucose levels which can cause diabetes. 

Eat healthier –  Consume more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maintain a diet that consists of less sugar and salt. It’s also important to eat three meals a day at a regular mealtime.

Do you need help paying for your insulin?

If you need help paying for your insulin, you may be able to get Medicare drug coverage. Open Enrollment for this coverage starts 1/1/2021. You can visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare to find a plan that offers this savings in your state.

For the millions of us living with diabetes, it’s a chance to tell our stories and awaken the world. Share your story today at https://holisticaging.com/contact/ 

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Coconut oil is composed predominantly of medium chain triglycerides (MCT). MCT oil is an easy way to get large concentrations of certain MCT. It usually contains C8, C10 or a combination of the two. The theory behind MCT potentially improving cognition is based on ketone bodies produced by metabolized coconut oil. Neurons in the brain use these ketone bodies for fuel, thus improving cognitive function.

The Results of MCT:

Definitive science and clinical evidence for using coconut oil is related to findings noted on PET scans in people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The brain of these individuals with AD demonstrated a decreased absorption of glucose (the food for the brain). These same PET scan show that areas of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s readily take up ketones as an alternative brain fuel source. MCT produce ketones, which act as an alternative energy source for the brain and can therefore improve brain function. Whereas ketogenic diets can be useful for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients, it is difficult to get them to adhere to this restricted diet.

Coconut oil, which is is 60% medium chain triglycerides (MCT) can serve as an alternative energy source in the brain. As stated before, they produce a ketogenic effect. Patients with memory impairment showed significant improvement in memory after receiving oral supplementation with MCT. The treatment produced higher ketone levels in the blood (Reger et al., 2004). Higher plasma levels of ketones like β-hydroxybutyrate directly correlate with higher performance in memory scores during this study (Reger et al., 2004). Adding coconut oil or MCT oil to the diet has the advantage of being cost effective, easy to implement, socially acceptable and generally safe from significant side effects. Quality MCT oils contain either 100% caprylic acid (C8), 100% capric acid (C10) or a combination of the two.

The Research on MCT:

Dr. Mary Newport popularized the use of both coconut oil and MCT oil for treating Alzheimer’s disease. As a neonatal physician, she was familiar with the use of MCT oil in newborns. When her husband developed early-onset Alzheimer’s, she fed him MCT oil and coconut oil with some success. She’s now an outspoken advocate for the use of MCT and coconut oil for neurological disorders beyond dementia including Down syndrome, ALS, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s. Here is an interview with Dr. Mary and Steve Newport about Steve’s recovery from Alzheimer’s disease by eating Coconut Oil.

In the following video, you can listen to a panel discussion with five medical doctors regarding the problem of insulin resistance and the damaging effects of a high carbohydrate diet on Alzheimer’s disease, and how coconut oil can be effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease.

The Take Away:

Neuro-cognitive diseases have devastating effects and are incurable. There is a the lack of therapeutic alternatives and the relative absence of effective medications and adverse drug effects. These issues give us an urgent need for effective therapies. The five drugs currently used for treatment are supportive or palliative rather than curative or disease-modifying therapies. These drugs do not appear to alter the final outcome of the disease either. MCT offer neuro-protective benefits for a wide range of diseases including dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury. “While more research certainly needs to be done in this area as well, I see no reason not to incorporate coconut oil in your diet, or the diet of a loved one who is exhibiting symptoms of brain degeneration. Coconut oil has so many profound health benefits; it’s not going to do any harm.”— Dr. Mercola

If you have any questions about incorporating coconut oil or MCT oil for dementia into your loved one’s daily routine, contact us today!

References

Neurobiol Aging. 2004 Mar;25 (3):311-4. Effects of beta-hydroxybutyrate on cognition in memory-impaired adults. Reger MA Henderson ST, Hale C, Cholerton B, Baker LD, Watson GS, Hyde K, Chapman D, Craft S.

The post Coconut Oil and MCT Oil for Dementia appeared first on Holistic Aging.

Magnesium deficiencies are known as the “invisible deficiency” because it’s so commonly overlooked. With the health benefits of magnesium ranging from improved cognition, reducing stress, improving depression, along with better sleep, pain relief and heart health, it’s easy to understand why taking magnesium is a promising strategy to vibrant health and disease prevention. “New clinical research results show magnesium is effective at addressing symptoms and is safer and easier on the wallet than prescription therapies,” reports Science Daily, echoing the reporting of Natural News from over a decade ago.

Interesting Magnesium Health Benefits

• This important mineral is deficient in the soil from which the food we eat grows. Chemical fertilizers and modern intensive farming and agricultural trends have stripped increasing amounts of nutrients from our soils.
• One general rule of thumb to determine the need for a daily intake of magnesium is approximately 3-4 mg per pound of bodyweight. For a 200 lb. male, this would equate to 600 mg to 800 mg per day. Roughly 75% of U.S. adults consume less than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of magnesium.
• 50% of cases of a deficiency in this mineral may go unrecognized due to statistical errors in serum magnesium testing.
• The body absorbs only about 20-50% of magnesium intake. Magnesium oxide, the most common form of supplement fro this nutrient found in drug stores, only has a 4% absorption rate.  Magnesium chloride has much higher rates of absorption due to their higher solubility in water.
• Over three dozen prescription medications interfere with absorption of this mineral and retention in the body, including cortisones, antibiotics, diuretics, allergy and asthma medications, and chemotherapy treatments.
• The natural process of aging and the individual’s state of health reduces stomach acid levels and is associated with reduced absorption. Consequently, the gut becomes less efficient at absorbing magnesium and the kidneys become less efficient at retaining it with age. Transdermal (topical) absorption of this mineral addresses all of these concerns.

By understanding the causes of a lack of magnesium, it’s possible for each of us to make proactive individual decisions on whether to supplement this commonly deficient essential mineral.

7 Health Benefits of Magnesium Chloride Transdermal/Topical Supplementation

1. Your heart needs it

Magnesium regulates the contractile ability of the heart muscle. A decreased level of this mineral in the heart muscle may predispose a person to coronary spasms. It also decreases coagulation and acts as a calcium channel blocker, thereby helping the heart to pump more effectively.

2. Your lungs need it

Magnesium also has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle in your lungs. In addition, it may be helpful in relaxing the smooth muscle of the bronchioles (improving asthma) and the arterioles (lowering blood pressure).

3. MG ++ helps with Depression

“A magnesium deficiency magnifies depression and stress. Serotonin, the feel good brain chemical that is boosted artificially by some medications, depends on magnesium for its production and function. A person that is going through a stressful period without sufficient magnesium can set up a deficit that, if not corrected, can linger, causing depression and further health problems.” Carolyn Dean, MD, ND

4. Slows aging

While natural aging is a healthy process, accelerated aging has been noted to be a feature of magnesium deficiency, especially evident in the context of long space-flight missions where low levels are associated with cardiovascular aging over 10 times faster than occurs on earth. Supplementation of this mineral has been shown to reverse age-related neuro-endocrine and sleep EEG changes in humans.

5. Helps you cope with stress

The more stressed a person becomes the more magnesium is lost from the body. Furthermore, if you are deficient, your heart rate and sympathetic nervous system is sent into overdrive, causing you to feel anxious and stressed.

6. Supports healthy brain function

Magnesium is a neuro-protective agent. A deficiency causes over-excitory brain patterns, which damages the neurons, eventually leading to cell death. In the brain, that is not easy to fix. Studies show that it also protects against neurological deficit after brain injury. Increasing Mg2++ levels in the brain could represent a promising strategy to minimize or even prevent cognitive deficits that take place with age.

7. Helps you get a better night’s sleep

Magnesium has a calming effect on your body’s nervous system and relaxes the muscles, which in turn will help you to fall asleep easier. A deficiency is also sometimes responsible for the nervousness that prevents sleep as well as restless legs syndrome. It may also improve the length and quality of slow wave sleep. Experts such as Dr Mark Hyman consider it  “The most powerful relaxation mineral available.”

Transdermal/Topical Applications of Magnesium (Dermal absorption)

• Is safe, convenient, affordable and effective.
• Allows you to maximize the amount you’re getting daily without having to worry about diarrhea, digestion, or swallowing additional pills several times a day.
• Is especially helpful with pain – apply directly to the trouble area with immediate results, rather than waiting for it to work its way through your GI tract.

What Holistic Aging Offers

Two options to consider in using for supplemental magnesium:

1. A calming  body butter combines the healing benefits of organic coconut oil, organic shea butter, and lavender essential oil with Genuine Zechstein magnesium chloride
2. A topical spray of Genuine Zechstein magnesium chloride from in distilled water

If you have any additional questions about the health benefits of magnesium, contact us today!

References:

Pao EM, Mickle SJ. Problem nutrients in the United States. Food Technology. 1981:35:58-79.

Durlach J. Overview of Magnesium Research: History and Current Trends. In: International Magnesium Symposium. New Perspectives in Magnesium Research. London: Springer-Verlag; 2007:3-11.

Seelig M, Rosanoff A. The Magnesium Factor. New York: Avery; 2003

The post Magnesium Health Benefits appeared first on Holistic Aging.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the use of therapeutic oils extracted from natural plant matter in order to encourage good health, equilibrium and well-being. Essential oils are naturally forming chemicals that are produced by plants as part of their defense system. Some have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, others repel insects and herbivores while others attract insects and birds for pollination. Some will seal the leaf or stem if it is broken or damaged while menthol, camphor, cineole types produce a substance that drips off the end of the leaf to prevent plants from growing around them.

The aromatic oils can be found in various parts of the plant including leaves, twigs, stems, roots, flowers, blossoms or fruit. The clove tree, for example, produces different types of oils from its bud, stalk and leaves. The material used, and the art of extraction has developed slowly over the course of time, but the origins reach back to the heart of the earliest civilizations.

Origin of Aromatherapy

Aromatic plants and oils have been used for thousands of years in various systems of traditional medicine in ancient civilizations. Of course, plants were the most natural and easily obtainable source of nutrition and most likely, our ancestors noticed which plant juices helped wounds heal faster, abated abdominal cramps, helped you breathe easier or improved your mood. Knowledge of this nature was considered precious and handed down from generation to generation.

The Vedic literature of India dating to around 2000 BC lists over 700 plant substances used for healing including cinnamon, ginger, myrrh, and sandalwood. The Chinese system of medicinal plant usage is evident in the Yellow Emperor’s Book of Internal Medicine  which dates back to 2000 BC, along with the great classic Pen ts’ao kang-mou, which lists over 8,000 thousand plant-based formulas used for healing and wellness even today.

Perhaps the richest association concerning the first aromatic materials used for medicinal purpose are those surrounding the ancient Egyptian civilization. Papyrus manuscripts, dating back to 2800 BC speaks of ‘fine oils and choice perfumes, and the incense of temples, where by every god is gladdened’. Aromatic gums and oils such as Frankincense, Cedar and Myrrh, are still detectable 1000 of years later when tombs were exhumed. Even Hippocrates, the father of medicine, who was born in Greece about 460 BC, also prescribed fumigations and refers to a vast number of medicinal plants in his writings.

In 1928 a French chemist, Rene’ Gattefosse’ coined the phrase aromatherapie. His research was the result of an accident suffered when badly burning his hand while working in his laboratory. He reached for the nearest bowl of liquid, which happened to be Lavender, and was amazed how quickly the hand healed with no sign of scarring. He realized the healing properties of Lavender were much greater than any synthetic, pharmacological preparation, he had been working on and began researching the healing properties of essential oils, taking into consideration their chemical properties as well as their smell.

How Aromatherapy Works

Essential oils enter the body in three ways; they can be:

• Absorbed through the skin and passed through the circulatory system
• Inhaled passing through the lungs or transmitted via the nervous system directly to the limbic system
• Ingested (Oral ingestion of essential oils is NOT recommended for the general public because a great deal of essential oils knowledge and expertise is necessary for safe practice.

We have all experienced the undeniable power of aroma. For example, at some point in our lives most of us have all been greeted by a fragrance that triggered a powerful memory such as the smell of freshly baked bread or apple pie conjures up long forgotten childhood memories of your mother.

The response to this type of stimulus is lightning fast; you don’t have time to stop and contemplate what the aroma reminds you of because you are catapulted back in time in a nanosecond, and will often feel a powerful emotional response that can even bring a smile or lead to tears. When this happens, you have just experienced the power of the limbic system in your brain, which mediates and controls all aspects of your emotions, memories, and even your very survival. It also explains how aromatherapy affects your emotions and can link them to memories.

The Science of Aromatherapy: Smell and the Limbic System 101

This complex v-shaped structure sits on top of the brain stem and is made up of the hippocampus, amygdala, part of the thalamus and the hypothalamus and several regions of the cerebral cortex. It is one of the earliest parts of the brain to develop in terms of evolution with 34 structures and 53 pathways, and since aromas, emotions, and memories all meet here you see why smell can trigger specific memories and emotions.

The hypothalamus receiving signals and regulating the response to pain, thirst and hunger, levels of pleasure and sexual satisfaction, anger and aggressive behavior, darkness and light. It also regulates the autonomic nervous system which governs your blood pressure, pulse, breathing, digestion, sweating, and arousal in response to emotional circumstances. In many ways the hypothalamus acts like a regulator or thermostat, restoring equilibrium (homeostasis) when the body is out of balance.

Another way the hypothalamus takes control of your body is via its neural and chemical connection to the pituitary gland which in turn receives instructions to release hormones into the body that regulate metabolism and growth. These two organs are key to the way that aromatherapy works.

When used in massage the aromatherapy essential oils have a therapeutic effect through both inhalation and absorption through the skin. The molecules in the oil pass through the epidermis and into the blood stream. Unlike chemicals or drugs, essential oils are typically excreted in 3-6 hours after application.

The Mind-Body Connection

When essential oils are use in the treatment of certain conditions either through inhalation, via massage, or used in the bath, they will cause various parts of the limbic system to spring into action. As a result, this triggers the release of neurochemicals and hormones that will slow the heart rate, regulate blood pressure, and stimulate the immune system making one less susceptible to disease or illness.

There are many evidence based research studies that have scientifically proven that essential oils can change mood, behavior and productivity, along with determination of which neurotransmitters were released, thus the mind-body connection which occurs when utilizing aromatherapy. The results of this type of research opens up a mirage of possibilities for future creative medicinal use of essential oils.

“Caveat Emptor” when Purchasing Essential Oils

According to the East West School for Herbal and Aromatic Studies, important items to obtain on each essential oil you purchase include:

• Common name, Latin name (exact genus and species),
• Country of origin, Part of plant processed,
• Type of Extraction (distillation or expression),
• How it was grown (organic, wild-crafted, traditional)
• Chemotype (when relevant).

Supplier Qualities:

• One who is dedicated to supplying essential oils to the aromatherapy practitioner market and educated public
• Owned by an aromatherapy practitioner or essential oil specialist
• Who has relations with his/her distillers, if possible
• Who can readily supply a batch-specific GC/MS spec report on each essential oil it sells
• Readily able to provide material safety data sheets (MSDS) as needed
  • *this is most often needed for individuals who are practicing in a medical facility
• Who has a strong ethical reputation in the field
• Who has preferably been in the field for a number of years and is well known to other aromatherapy practitioners and/or educators

 Example of Common Usage of one Essential Oil in Aromatherapy

Lavender (lavendula angustifolia)

Herbal/Folk Tradition: Lavenders scent is a familiar and well established folk remedy in ‘comforting the stomach’, ‘palpations of a nervous sort’, ‘spasms and colic’ and fatigue. Outwardly applied it relieved tooth ache, neuralgia, sprains and rheumatism. The dried flower was carried during the plague to ward off disease.

Actions: Analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmotic, antifungal, antiseptic, sedative, and skin regeneration

Dilution: .25% for children and the elderly to 100% (neat) in adults.

Aromatherapy Use:

• Skin care: Acne, brittle nails, insect bites and repellent, warts, age spots, alopecia, scarring, burns
• Circulation, Muscles and Joints: Arthritis, cellulitis, high blood pressure, PMS, poor circulation
• Respiratory: Asthma, bronchitis, infections of the throat, hay fever
• Digestive: Irritable bowel, dyspepsia, digestion issues
• Immune System: Colds, flu, infections
• Psychological: Anxiety, irritability, nervousness, sleeplessness, anger, exhaustion, dementia

Conclusions

My own interest in essential oils and traditional types of medicine derived from my frustration with modern medicine treatment. This is especially true in treatment for the older population. As a result, they often suffer with aggressive procedures, polypharmacology, dismissal of concerns, and the disease management model of care. Despite a medical systems intent to do the “best work”, it was at odds with my client’s wishes. Many want to “lessen pain,” “die at home,” and “avoid the suffering I have seen my friends go through.” Consequently, finding ways to empower elders and their families in assuring care of the mind, body and spirit of all elders has become my mission. Aromatherapy is one of the ways we can nurture the wholeness of the older adult thereby inspiring peace and healing.

Scientific trials and clinical research has continued to confirm the potentials for using essential oils within the medical arena. Nowadays, aromatherapy treatments are widely available, safely and effectively implemented. Furthermore, they are typically offered in most major hospitals throughout the USA.

Questions?

If you are a medical individual, Hospital, Hospice, Facility or Home Care Agency interested in learning more about the science of aromatherapy or implementing an aromatherapy program, please call Bobbi at 412-486-6677 or email at info@holisticaging.com.

Barbara (Bobbi) Kolonay RN, MS CCM, Certified Holistic Nurse, is the President of Holistic Aging – Options For Elder Care – A Aging Life  Care Management Practice located in Pittsburgh PA.

************ESSENTIAL OILS ARE POTENT and SHOULD NEVER BE INGESTED. Please, take a class and get certified from a medically certified aromatherapist prior to using EO on yourself or others

REFERENCES

 Damian, Peter and Kate. Aromatherapy Scent and Psyche. Rochester: Healing Arts Press. 1995

Dyer, J. McNeil S, Ragsdale-Lowe M, Tratt, L 2008, A snapshot survey of current practice: the use of aromasticks for symptom management. International Journal of Aromatherapy. 5 (2): 17-21

Lawless, Julia. The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils. San Francisco: Conari Press. 2013. Print

Lis-Balchin, Maria. Aromatherapy Science. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press. 2006. Print.

Naves, Y.R. & Mazuyer, G. Natural Perfume Materials. New York. Reinhold Publishing. 1947. Print

Shutes, Jude. “The Quality of Essential Oils.” The East West School for Herbal and Aromatic Studies. Web. Sept 2014

Walters, Clare. Aromatherapy, An Illustrated Guide. Boston. ELEMENT BOOKS INC. 1998. Print.

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Ingredients:

Salad:

• 2 med. heads yellow endive
• 1 med. apple, sliced thin
• 1/2 cup watercress leaves
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup blue cheese

Dressing:

• 1 tbsp non-fat cottage cheese
• 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 3 tsp. walnut oil
• 1 small clove garlic, crushed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Carefully remove all the leaves of the endive without breaking them. Wash and dry endive, apple, and watercress. Arrange endive leaves at bottom of each individual plate in a circle, apple slices in the middle, and watercress over the endive. Sprinkle walnuts and blue cheese on top. Place dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree. Pour over salad and serve.

Servings: Makes 2 servings

Health Benefits:

This is one of the recipes for your brain because green leafy vegetables provide antioxidants and vitamins, and the oil provides healthy fats.

(Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, 2017)

Energizing Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup organic blueberries, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice (canned is okay)
• 1 scoop of non-GMO soy or whey protein powder

Directions:

Wash and dry blueberries. Place them in the blender together with the other ingredients Liquefy and drink as your first meal of the day. This smoothie gives you powerful nutrition and only contains 300 calories.

Servings: Makes 1 serving

Health Benefits:

Protein Powder will give you stamina to face the day; the pineapple juice is excellent as a digestion aid, diuretic and fat burner; and the blueberries are a specific brain tonic.

(Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, 2017)

Baked Lime Chicken with Peach Salsa

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken Breasts
• Grill Seasoning
• Lime Juice
• Red Onion
• Peaches
• Tomatoes
• Cilantro
• Avocado

Directions:

Bake Chicken with grill seasonings and a splash of lime juice. Mix chopped peaches , tomatoes, cilantro, avocado and red onion with lime juice and pour on top of chicken.

Servings: Makes 4 servings

Health Benefits:

This is another of the recipes for your brain because chicken, avocado, and peaches are all anti-inflammatory foods.

(Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, 2017)

Sweet Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2, 1 lb fresh salmon fillets
• 1/2 gallon pure water
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
• 1/2 onion, sliced as rings
• 2 med. cloves garlic, minced
• 4 slices of lemon
• 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/8 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp blank pepper
• 2 tsp flaxseed oil or extra virgin oil oil

Directions:

Rinse salmon with cold water. In the meantime, bring water to a boil. Layer food in a large strainer. the first layer is made of half the carrots, red pepper, parsley, onion garlic and lemon. The second layer is made of the salmon fillets. The third layer is the remaining half of vegetables. Place strainer above boiling water. Cover and let steam until salmon is cooked, approx. 10 minutes or until salmon is cooked throughout. Arrange top layer of vegetables on one plate,  and place one fillet in the center: prepare the second plate in the same way. Sprinkle flaxseed oil or extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper, and serve.

Servings: Makes 2 servings

Health Benefits:

Salmon is an important source of omega 3 fats, healthy nutrients for the body and the brain. It provides optimal energy and nutrients that restore proper chemical balance. The vegetables provide antioxidants and vitamins. In this recipe, there is very little fat, which helps keep optimal health.

(Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, 2017)

All statistics and referenced information on Alzheimer’s disease is base on information found at Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. For more recipes for your brain, visit our website today!

References

Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. (2017, March 23). Retrieved March 30, 2017, from http://alzheimersprevention.org/

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The best defense against a cold or flu is a pro-active offense to ensure that all systems in the body are operating at their optimum levels. Throughout this article, we will talk about how to treat colds and flu viruses without side effects.

The difference between people who tend to be sick and others who never succumb to the latest bug lies in their immune system. This complex system is made up of connective tissue; lymph glands; various organs, such as bone marrow, thymus, and spleen; and various cells including white blood cells, T cells, and B cells to name a few. Each has specialized jobs to keep us healthy. Therefore, anytime there is a “hole” in the system, opportunistic bacteria and viruses can move in. There are germs around us all the time; the difference of whether or not we get sick lies in our immune system’s strength.

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Viruses can’t reproduce on their own but must invade a living cell to replicate. Some viruses kill cells while others alter the cell and can leave genetic material in the host cell. Because of this process, they constantly shift and drift to survive, sometimes forming deathly epidemic strands. For this reason, conventional treatment via the flu shot can be a flawed solution; it is like aiming for an ever-moving and constantly changing target. Sometimes you hit it and sometimes you miss it.

The harm from the flu is not the virus itself but the body’s inflammatory response to the invading virus.

Flu symptoms:

• Fever over 101
• Dry cough
• Headache
• Chills sweats
• Aching especially in the back, arms, and legs
• Quick onset (colds are slower)
• Nasal congestion
• Fatigue and weakness

Upper respiratory symptoms are often treated with over the counter drugs, antibiotics, and antiviral medications. We frequently see antibiotic misuse for upper respiratory symptoms due to viral infections, and plant medicine is a potentially safer alternative to prescription drugs for routine cases of the common cold and influenza. Due to concerns about safety, efficacy, and antibiotic resistance, there is a demand for an alternative solution. Herbs/Plants have been used for centuries to treat all types of infections and viruses in time-honored traditional herbal practices.

The study of herbs and their medicinal use was a natural consequence of my search for historically proven methods to improve the lives of our aging clients that treat the whole person. I have found herbs to treat colds and flu viruses without side effects. They are also safe and effective as the first line of treatment or prevention. The herbs listed below help to improve the immune system. The healthier your immune system, the less likely you are to get sick, or if you do, it will be milder. You might consider using these herbal remedies in conjunction with a flu shot or, if your preference, as a replacement to improve your immune response. I recommend incorporating these remedies into your fall/winter diet.

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1. Physical

When people in the western world think of health this is immediately what comes to mind.  Good nutrition, physical activity, getting enough sleep, exercising moderation with tobacco, sugar, etc. These are all important to our well being, but it is only a piece of the puzzle that is  your overall health.

2. Social

Establishing and maintaining relationships and connecting with others. Building relationships is a huge part of our health. Humans are social creatures and need these relationships to thrive. Even introverts need to get out and mingle every once in a while.

3. Environmental

Creating and living in a space that promotes positive well being. When it comes to our personal health this is not something we usually think of. Changes in our environment have a huge impact on us. Think about cleaning a dirty house and how calming the rooms are when you finish. This is one simple way of creating a positive environment but there are many more ways to create positivity in a space.

4. Intellectual

Being open to new ideas, learning new concepts and skills. With an open mind comes flexibility. That ability to react and change direction is part of why humanity has not only survived but thrived. Exercising our minds with new activities and games keeps our brains healthy. The healthier our brain the better off we will be in the future as we age.

5. Emotional

The ability to acknowledge, understand and cope with feelings in a productive manner. Of course this is sometimes better said than done but knowing your emotional needs and how to handle different situations is important to your overall health. A negative emotional state can bring down all the other aspects in this list. Pay attention to yourself. Don’t put your feelings and emotions last.

6. Spiritual

Finding a sense of purpose and meaning to life. When we find ourselves lost as we navigate the realities of the world, many of us search for this very thing. The truth is that our purpose and the meaning of our lives might be simpler and closer than we expect.

7. Occupational

Satisfaction and personal fulfillment from our chosen career fields. A poor job or career choice can haunt anyone. Sometimes, it might be financially scary,but it’s better to  leave before it drags you down. If you struggle through and stay, it could hurt your confidence and make it harder to find a better fit.

8. Financial

Effectively managing financial behavior and outcomes. When if comes to finances, its best to have a plan. Save when you can and budget in some money for fun as well. Adding that to the budget can help relieve the stress you feel when you find something you want and keep you from over spending on a whim.

These components of wellness overlap and intertwine to impact a satisfying, productive life. Each of these aspects can be challenging in different ways. Be intentional about including these eight components into your everyday routine to stay in control of your health. Contact us today!

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