Urinary Tract Infections - Herbal Relief for Young and Old

I used to have urinary tract infections chronically until my early thirties when I met the R.I. formula. No more infections for the next 35 years, but now, as I'm speeding toward 70, occasionally there's that bit of burning and the cold sweat again. One capsule of the R.I. in the A.M. and one in the P.M. for a week takes care of it. It might be very helpful to a parent or friend in their 70s or 80s on up who is needlessly suffering from this.Also, remember hot water bottles – anyone over age 60 certainly will. I still have mine covered in sheepskin - cozy. Oh, and, of course, hydrate, hydrate.When water just doesn't do it, no matter how much we drink, stop and eat some watermelon - especially helpful. Or try some other run-down-the-chin juicy fruits, wonderfully in season right now. They are alkalizing too, and so, help with pain, especially the pain that is a direct result from a very acidic system, as with urinary tract infections. Watermelon’s packed nutrient content with its low glycemic load, stays in the body longer than plain water, and so, hydrates longer and very comfortably. I chop it up and keep it beside me in the office - just in case you see some pink stains on an instruction sheet or invoice in your shipment (HaHa).

Urinary Tract Infections Can Occur at Any Age

Take the R.I. formula on your honeymoon, especially if you easily suffer from Urinary Tract Infections or cystitis (“Honeymooner’s Disease”).However, we also often suffer from these kinds of infections as we head towards our dotage. Once again bladder infections show up in that spot of blood in the urine that the doctor says you have, but claims that it is normal and to just drink more water, and/or he or she will give you an antibiotic that you are loathe to take.A patient of mine gave a bottle of the R.I. formula to her bladder-infection-prone daughter to take with her on her honeymoon. With mom’s re-order, she reported that the happy couple had fun...  lots of fun.Best of Health to you as always,Doc EveFrom So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Causes of Fatigue: Part 4 of 4 / The Sugar Blues

The "sugar blues" can be tiring enough to put us to sleep - not so good for a work day, especially as it also causes depression.  While we're actually eating sugar, of course, it gives us a zip of energy, but later dumps us.  The insulin-producing pancreas, which helps us utilize the sugars we eat, becomes tired and temperamental, and we need to pacify it because it's the only one we have.Sugar cravings can be as strong as some drug addictions, so the herbs that step up to the plate for that and help us deal with it are a wonderful thing indeed. If it's a genetic predisposition, as it can be in hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia (diabetes), it would be a good idea to always have these herbs around in case we fall off the wagon during special celebrations - birthday cakes and trips to the ice cream parlor when visitors are in town, etc. - you know what I mean.  See the Therapy Packs below for support and relief:We all know what assaults the belabored pancreas - all types of wheat bread, sweet things, alcohol and the mainlining of sodas and caffeine, not to mention the hidden sugars in packaged foods.  They offer temporary highs, but the thing is, what goes up must come down, so the mind-blowing fatigue and the "blues" result.My weakness is dark chocolate, which is fine on days I've had no other sweet things, but not O.K. if I've had a margarita and dessert the night before.  We get to know our own body and can be nice to it accordingly, especially when we can use the herbs to soothe the wild cravings.

DO THIS AT HOME (to test your sugar tolerance)

The photo at left shows how you can actually check it yourself by having someone "challenge" the latissimus dorsi muscle, which tests the strength or weakness of the pancreas. Test it gently and firmly, it is not a wrestling match.  If it is strong, it is likely you are blessed with a genetically strong pancreas - lucky you.You can then test your favorite form of sugar you like to eat by holding it on your tongue or in your other hand. The muscle will often go weak.  If the muscle is weak to begin with, test the Sugar Free formula, by putting it against the body, to see if it will strengthen the muscle.Of course, we have a number of formulas to strengthen the pancreas if the Sugar Free formula is not the right one.  It's a nice, easy way to see if the type of sugar you are testing is very weakening to your system or has a moderate or no effect.How to test the latissimus dorsi muscle:The "patient" being tested:

• May be standing or sitting, and should have no pains or problems with the shoulder joint.
• Keep the arm straight, elbow locked, and rotated inward so that the thumb and inside of the elbow face in toward the body.
• Attempt to hold the arm tight against your body while being tested.

The "doc" doing the testing:

• Stabilize yourself and the "patient's" shoulder with one hand.
• Other hand on the "patient's" wrist and gently attempt to pull the arm away from the body (don't jerk hard).
• If it locks tight, it's a strong muscle.
• If it trembles or has no resistance, it is a weak muscle.

There are many other causes of fatigue such as poor sleeping, illness and prescription drugs like statins (for cholesterol), high blood pressure meds and anti-depressants.  But the above suggestions are a good place to start and the chain reaction will help us feel better overall.Do look at the pancreas section (ch. 8) of my book, Feeling Very Much Better, for foods to eat and to avoid.Here's to feeling very much better!Sending restored energy,Doc EveFrom So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Causes of Fatigue: Part 3 of 4 / Metabolism and Stress

The thyroid gland in the neck is most often the gland treated for fatigue and metabolism issues.  When thyroid treatment alone does not work, however, it usually means that the adrenal glands (the "fight or flight" or stress glands that sit like little hats on top of our kidneys) have been overlooked, and both need nutritional support simultaneously.When the adrenal glands are bullied each day with common stressors like long hours, mental strain, excessive caffeine, sugars, energy drinks and other stimulating recreational drugs, they tire and, in time, go into "adrenal exhaustion".  At that point, the thyroid has to take over and also becomes overburdened.

Herbal and Food Support for the Metabolism and Stress

Both the adrenal and thyroid glands make up the business end of our metabolism.  A good metabolism has a great deal to do with energy levels, which in turn affects our weight, which in turn again affects our energy, and round it goes.This is one of the reasons that using adrenal support first is usually a more permanent "fix" for the metabolism, since these herbs help the thyroid as well.  The TQH formula and the Rhodiola Root Extract support the adrenals beautifully, especially when accompanied by our Cramp Bark or Herbal Multi formula.  Together with the homeopathic Thyroidinum, these can all be found in our Thyroid Imbalance Therapy Pack - Female and Thyroid Imbalance Therapy Pack - Male in the store on EvesHerbs.com (or just click on the appropriate photo).Often it is a little calmness we want first to let our poor, flogged adrenal glands relax and recuperate.  For this we would use the MNF formula and the Vervain to nourish, calm and soothe.Also, look at the Reproductive/Hormonal System section (Chapter 7 that covers metabolism) in my book, Feeling Very Much Better, for food suggestions and recipes.  This, together with some exercise and meditation, will allow the adrenal and thyroid glands to get up and, once again, do their own work in a more balanced metabolism.Best as always,Doc EveP.S. - Spring is in the air and allergies are afoot - so our Allergy Therapy Packs are on sale for the season!From So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Causes of Fatigue: Part 2 of 4 / Constipation

Constipation is the second in the causes of fatigue that needs to be considered.  When you're constipated, your body is trying to move the waste but is having trouble, so much energy goes to that effort, which can be herculean.  Thus, relieving constipation will usually restore your energy.

Natural Ways to Ease Constipation

With Juice:  Try drinking some prune juice diluted with warm water first thing in the morning.  Adding a few drops of fresh lemon juice makes it more effective still.  Fill 1/4 of the glass with the prune juice and lemon and the rest with warm water.With Body Points:  The first three are reflex points that you would rub in a circular motion with light to medium pressure.

• Point 1 is located about 1 inch down and 4-5 inches to the right of your navel; or 1/3 the way from the ASIS (pelvic bone bump) to the navel.
• Point 2 is at the front of the right shoulder - just roll off the shoulder bone toward the chest.
• Point 3 is in the center of the widest part of the calf muscle.

With Acupressure Points:  Roll around until you find the most tender part and hold it for a minute or two until the tenderness subsides.

• Point 1 (LI 4) is located on the back of the web of either hand between the thumb and index metacarpals (palm bones), closer to the index.
• Point 2 (LI 11) is found by bending the elbow and following the crease to the outside, but before the bone.
• These two points are also good for relieving some types of headaches.

If these only help some, or it returns regularly, and you feel you need herbal laxative and dietary help as well, try our Constipation Therapy Pack in the Store on our website, Evesherbs.com.Frequently, a major contributor to constipation or indigestion is tension.  Eating when upset, while running around or standing at the sink, etc., is common - we all do it at times.  Once our entire plumbing system is running smoothly again, the extra energy that was focused there can again be used elsewhere.  It may be for healing another part of the body, taking favorite walks, being able to focus at work again or just feeling joy.  A soothing abdominal massage will often be comforting and stress-releasing:

• Use the palms and fingers of both hands to circle the abdomen in a clockwise direction from the rib cage down the left side to the pubes and back up the right.
• With light to medium pressure, keep the right hand in contact with the abdomen as it circles, and have the left "hop" over the right as it passes it.

The detoxification section (Chapter 2) in "Feeling Very Much Better" is the one to look at for foods to eat and avoid, as well as other herbal recommendations to help with constipation.  The Therapy Packs also come with a concise instructions outline, not too long, when time is short.  Enjoy.Best as always,Doc EveP.S. - Spring is in the air and allergies are afoot - so our Allergy Therapy Packs are on sale for the season!From So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Causes of Fatigue: Part 1 of 4 / Low-Iron Anemia

WHICH ONE OF THE CAUSES OF FATIGUE IS YOURS - AND - HOW DO YOU GET TO FEEL GOOD AGAIN?

CAUSES OF FATIGUE: A SIMPLE TEST FOR LOW-IRON ANEMIA

In checking out your possible causes of fatigue, try a simple test:  Look in the mirror and check the inside of your lower eyelid by pulling it down a little.  If the color is a strong pink, the iron levels should be fine.  If it is a very pale pink or whitish, you are likely to be anemic.

CAUSES OF ANEMIA

• Your body can't replace red blood cells (RBCs) fast enough, as in blood loss from surgeries, accidents, excessive menstrual bleeding, ulcers, prolonged use of aspirin or NSAIDS, etc.
• Your body is destroying RBCs because of a (hemolytic) disease.
• Your body isn't making enough RBCs because it isn't getting enough iron, folate or vitamin B12, or has a chronic inflammatory disease (cancer, RA, Crohn's, etc.).

IRON-RICH FOODS

One of the causes of fatigue is a diet conspicuously low or absent in the following foods resulting in low levels of iron, folate and vit. B12:

• Dark green leafy vegetables, beans/legumes, asparagus, broccoli and kelp
• Avocados, oranges, papayas, mangoes, pomegranates and dark dried fruits like raisins, prunes and dates
• Nuts, seeds, tofu, brown rice, millet and other whole grains
• Wild-caught fish, grass-fed and hormone/chemical-free beef or lamb, and organic egg yolks

Using the chapters on Liver (Ch. 6) or Hypoglycemia/Diabetes (Ch.8) in my book, "Feeling Very Much Better", will offer more foods to eat and avoid to stabilize iron levels, help you to avoid the causes of fatigue and bring the energy back up.

SUPPLEMENTS: DOs and DON'Ts

Do not buy over-the-counter iron pills as they are rough on our poor livers, which are usually already "put upon".The iron needs to come from the above listed foods or from plant supplements like the yellow dock in our PATIC FE or HERBAL MULTI formulas.NEXT WEEK in Part II... we'll address CONSTIPATION and energy.Here's to feeling good and ready for summer,Doc EveP.S. - Spring is in the air and allergies are afoot - so our Allergy Therapy Packs are on sale for the season!From So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Sooth Poison Ivy or Oak Rashes Without Steroids

Avoiding contact with Poison Ivy and Poison Oak is, obviously, the best course of action.  There are several varieties, but these photos will help you identify the most common:

If you do find yourself having made contact with one of these plants and the oil (urushiol) got on your skin, the following should help relieve the symptoms:

WHEN TO GO TO A HOSPITAL WITH POISON IVY OR POISON OAK

Firstly, if the symptoms are serious, get to a hospital E.R., like when:

• You’re having difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• There are many rashes and/or blisters covering most of your body, or the rash is anywhere on your face or genitals.
• There is swelling anywhere, especially around the eyes.
• Large areas itch and nothing seems to help.

WHEN YOU CAN TREAT POISON IVY OR POISON OAK YOURSELF

If it’s a manageable area, try the following:

1. Thoroughly wash the area with lukewarm soapy water to get the plant’s oils off the skin.
2. Apply witch hazel, available at most pharmacies.
3. Apply one of the following plant “milks", usually offering instant relief:

   

Stinging Nettle:  As the name implies, it does sting to the touch, so wear leather gloves or use a heavy cloth or towel to grasp it.  Use a clean rock or hammer to bang it up enough to get the “milk” flowing, as that is what you want to put on the poison ivy skin rash.

Aloe Vera:  Break off an aloe vera leaf, squeeze toward the broken end, and brush the juices onto the rash.

Plantain:  As with the Stinging Nettle, crush the leaf until the juices flow, then apply.

 

If these plants are not available, you can also try a cup of baking soda in a lukewarm bath, or make a paste of 2 tablespoons of baking soda mixed with 1/2 to one TBSP of apple cider vinegar - mix the ACV in slowly until it becomes a spreadable paste.

Be sure to wash the clothes you were wearing and any items that may have come in contact with the oils of the Poison Ivy or Oak plants.  If the oils are left, you could start another rash when touched.

Take the Bactotox and Herbal Multi throughout the summer to keep the immune system strong and skin less reactive.Best of Health to you as always,Doc EveP.S. - The Allergy Therapy Packs are on sale for the Spring season.From So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates

Calm a Panic Attack with Neurological Body Points and Herbs

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We might wake up in the night, and it hits us that something is "wrong and frightening", and immediately our heart has extremely progressive ideas on accelerating.  Possible sweating and shakiness can come with it and we panic.Ideally, of course, the source has to be dealt with, but in the meantime logical thought is denied access and we need something to do about it right now.

When you feel a PANIC ATTACK starting, give this a try:

1. Take the calming herbs and/or meds you may already be on for it.  But they need time to work, so in the meantime...
2. Sit or lie down as comfortably as possible and place the finger pads of one hand (index through pinky) vertically on the sternum.  I find myself taking a deeper breath immediately.  Not hard pressure, just a gentle tugging of the skin as the fingers rest.
3. Gently rest the other hand on the forehead, just the weight of the hand is fine as it will use enough pressure on the "emotional holding points" to tell the nervous system to calm.
4. Once that has begun and we can at least think again, breathe in the "dark and heavy solidity" of the panic, recognizing that is what it happens to be for now.  Then exhale it into vast space, light and airy.  Repeat this several times.  By then, the physical support of the calming herbs below should be kicking in.

Herbal formula recommendations:  I have found the Calm Spirit, Vervain, HBP and MNF formulas very effective while learning to cope.Try it out and let me know how you do - at my email below, or by phone.Best of Health to you as always,Doc EveP.S. - The Allergy Therapy Packs are on sale for the Spring season.From So. Calif., call 310-855-1111 / Otherwise, call 541-482-2112Email: doctoreve@evesherbs.comEvesHerbs.com          Come find us on     for daily tips and updates