Made to Thrive and Thankful

Introducing the CRT Savings Pass

Making WELLNESS affordable.

If you think about it, having "health" insurance is something that works only when you are "sick". In most cases one must reach a deductible of several hundred to thousands of dollars per year in order to utilize the so called "health benefits". What if you had a CRT Savings Pass that enabled you to receive regular CRT to help keep you well? What if your overall body systems were restored to optimal function and you found yourself not getting sick? Well, here at the CRT Wellness Center of Sarasota, your wellness is our top priority.

Single Adult - $2,000.00 per year Two Adults - $4,000.00 per year Family package - $5,000.00 per year (children must be under 18 years of age and living with parents) All passes can be billed monthly, or simply paid in full.

The CRT Savings Pass includes the benefit of discounts on all products and services offered.

doTerra Essential Oils to Rejuvenate Energy Levels

If you are feeling depleted, essential oils can be a gentle and safe way to rejuvenate your energy and invigorate your senses. Essential oils are typically blended into and applied with a thicker carrier oil (such as coconut, grapeseed, jojoba, or almond). With this method, you can massage the oil into your feet, behind your ears, or along pulse points on your arms and legs.

Essential oils also can be inhaled ("air therapy") much the way one inhales the aroma of a good meal. Hold the bottle a few inches below your nose and breathe deeply. Another option is to use an aromatherapy diffuser. It's a great way to use around the house, at your desk, or after a long drive.

These uses of essential oils are believed to stimulate the brain centers that are active in regulating hormones, including those that affect emotion and energy levels. The oils listed below are just a few that are recommended for boosting alertness, elevating mood, and restoring balance when you feel fatigued. Check with your wellness practitioner to see if these oils are right for you.

Energy-boosting oils can be blended or used individually. Remember, these oils are stimulating, so you would not want to use them within a few hours of going to sleep.

• Wild Orange (Citrus sinensis) uplifting, refreshing, and energizing.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a stimulating fragrance that can boost motivation when you feel sluggish.
• Lemon/Lime (Citrus limon/Citrus aurantifolia) are energizing, cleansing scents that can help dispel worry and clear emotional confusion.
• Peppermint/Spearmint (Mentha piperita/Mentha spicata) both can awaken mental activity and help relieve fatigue. Spearmint has a sweeter, less medicinal scent than peppermint.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) helps calm anxiety and boost mental alertness.

References

Mindful Eating

The race is on! Cooking, cleaning, hosting, visiting, and tackling a holiday shopping list that is growing faster the summer's weeds. Before you know it, the table is set and you're serving the holiday meal. This year, though, is going to be different--you're going to sit down and savor the cornucopia of flavors and the good company at your table.

The art of Mindful Eating... When you eat mindfully, you are in tune with the aroma, taste, and texture of food. You become much more aware of your appetite--just how hungry are you? And, you become more sensitive to the feeling of fullness, so you'll be less likely to overeat. Mindful eating brings enjoyment back to mealtime.

4 Ways to Slow Down and Savor Your Holiday Meal

Pause & Connect. After you give thanks for your meal, but before you pick up your fork, take a moment to connect with your appetite. How hungry are you... really? Of all the glorious food on the table before you, what are you truly hungry for? What flavors will nourish you and replenish your energy? Try not to choose foods out of habit. Fill your plate first with the foods your body most needs. Then, embellish your plate with smaller amounts of those traditional holiday favorites.

Clear Digital Distractions. Although it's less likely at holiday time when family and friends gather from near and far, it's easy to forget to turn off the digital devices that are such a huge part of our lives. Sure, someone will complain about missing a "key play" in the big game, but what's more important? :)

Take Bites, Not Gulps. Instead of shoveling food into your mouth, take smaller bites and focus on chewing and tasting it. Pause between bites to set your utensils down and breathe.

Engage All the Senses. The taste of food is just one way to appreciate it. Throughout your meal, notice how food smells and how it looks on the plate. Notice the colors and the textures. Consider the nutrients that the food will provide for you. Appreciate every aspect of eating (and celebrating) the holiday meal.

References

Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Almost too good to be true ... vegan, gluten-free, cranberry orange biscotti are a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or your preferred after-dinner elixir. Even the kids will love them!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups blanched almond flour
• 1 T arrowroot powder
• 1/4 tsp Celtic sea salt*
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup local/raw honey
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup pistachios

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine almond flour, arrowroot powder, salt, and baking soda.
2. Pulse until ingredients are well combined.
3. Pulse in local/raw honey and orange zest until the dough forms a ball.
4. Remove dough from food processor and work in cranberries and pistachios with your hands.
5. Form dough into 2 logs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then remove from oven and cool for 1 hour.
7. Cut the logs into 1/2-inch slices on the diagonal with a very sharp knife.
8. Spread slices out on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 12-15 minutes.
9. Remove from oven and allow to cool, set, and become crispy.

Serves: 12 baby biscotti

* Celtic Sea Salt has a stronger taste than other salts. If you find your biscotti too salty for your liking, try reducing to a little less than a 1/4 tsp.

References

CRT with Digestive Enzymes

With CRT, I've seen great improvements for those with Digestive Issues. That said, occasionally we need a little added help. The digestive system has an intricate relationship with all other systems in the body, including the immune, endocrine, and nervous systems. If your digestive system cannot properly digest food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste products from the body, then it becomes very difficult to maintain optimal health. Even if you eat an ideal diet, if you experience a great deal of stress, have an underlying medical condition, or are taking medications that affect digestive processes, you can experience digestive difficulties and have problems absorbing nutrients. CRT is my first recommendation!

Digestive enzymes are proteins that facilitate specific chemical reactions to break down food (e.g., carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) into smaller, absorbable components.  CRT with Digestive Enzyme Supplements (DES) are a natural remedy for many conditions that have a root cause in the digestive system, including food sensitivity, allergies, behavioral disorders, and other health conditions that may be related to a nutrient deficiency.

Your health practitioner may suggest taking a plant-based DES with meals along with regular CRT.  DES are usually derived from pineapple (bromelain) or papaya (papain). Another source of DES is derived from microbes and includes varieties of lipase, amylase, protease, and lactase, which all have unique effects in the digestive process.

The medical premise for a DES is to facilitate thorough digestion of food and to prevent foodstuffs from lingering in the gut where they can generate unfavorable bacteria and yeast (at the expense of healthy gut bacteria). Regular CRT and Digestive enzyme supplements may also enhance the nutrition received from the foods you eat, which is good for the whole body. Research shows that regular CRT, or taking a DES can promote bowel movement regularity, reduce or eliminate other gastric disturbances such as reflux or gas, and ease the symptoms of food intolerance (e.g., lactose).

Digestive enzymes can be used by adults and children alike, but consult your practitioner for proper dosage. Do not take digestive enzymes without the input of your doctor if you have active stomach or duodenal ulcers, inflammation of the bowels, bleeding disorders, or are scheduled for surgery. 

CRT, for enhancing health benefits and overall wellness, is a perfect choice for all ages; newborn to grandparents. 

References

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

Happy Thanksgiving! 

October 2015 Made to Thrive

October 2015 Edition  Made to Thrive! (not merely survive) The Lord bless you and keep you.

What's New

Bats pollinate about 450 commercial plants we consume, such as: bananas, mangoes, peaches, figs, avocado and
vanilla!   Who knew? Now I have a whole new appreciation for these strange creatures! :)                                                                

CRT, Cranial Release Technique

Did you know that 90% of ALL illnesses can be linked to chronic stress*?!

(* World Health Organization)  

 Consider this with me... If we nip chronic stress in the bud, in this case with CRT, the body that is no longer in a "chronic stress" state, now has the capacity to greatly improve in overall health and wellness. That's huge!

 Some of the benefits from regular CRT include, but are not limited to, the following:

-Balanced Body Structure/Muscles

-Improved Athletic Performance

-Relief of Pain in Neck and Back

-Greater Mind Focus and Calmness

-Better Sleep

-More Energy

-Headaches/Migraines disappear

-Depression/Anxiety relief

-Adrenal fatigue/Exhaustion relief

-Enhanced creativity

-Improved outlook on life

-Ability to better handle stress and life

-Lightness, Clarity, less negativity

-Supports Immune system

-Lowers blood sugar/pressure

... and more!

We were Made to Thrive, not merely survive! 

This is great news!  Here at the CRT Wellness Center of Sarasota, LLC, we specialize in CRT and encourage you to make the CRT Choice for overall health and wellness.  Check out the CRT Savings Pass and make CRT a part of your whole family's wellness routine. Truly affordable wellness care at it's core; Your central nervous system.

Don't Let Food Labels Give You Indigestion

It seems I'm forever reminding myself and others to be sure and "read those labels!" Of course the best way to be sure of what you're eating is to eat whole, (organic if possible) foods, and simply leave the packaged foods on the shelf.  I know... I know... we're in a hurry and thrive on convenience. As you're cruising the grocery store aisles, you probably flip over a few items to scrutinize their nutrition labels. But do you understand what you're looking at?  Many of you know I'm not a huge fan of our government having anything to do with what we do, however, the government is working on updating the label to reflect today's nutritional concerns and include more realistic serving sizes.  Until that happens, use the diagram included with this article to help make quick, informed food choices that contribute to a healthy, balanced diet. Also, remember these helpful tips:

1. Nutrition information is provided for one serving of a food or beverage. Many products contain more than one serving. If a serving size is one cup, and you eat two cups, then you must double the calories, fat, sugar, and other ingredients to get an accurate estimate of how much you've eaten. If you've eaten a smaller portion than what is on the label, calculate accordingly.
2. Pay special attention to the amount of sugars (including carbohydrates) in one serving. This is especially important if you have diabetes (or other health concerns) that require you to monitor sugar intake or the glycemic index of foods.
3. Check out the amount of fat, especially saturated fat, in one serving. Unhealthy fats contribute to many chronic health problems. Trans fats are also labeled because they are known to contribute to "bad cholesterol," which contributes to heart disease. Choose foods that are low in these fats. However, some foods, like nuts, have high fat content, but the source of fat is actually good for the body--it's not a saturated or a trans fat.
4. Be aware that "0" does not mean zero! It means less than 5% per serving!
5. In addition to understanding the nutrition label, take a look at the list of ingredients. If you cannot pronounce the words that are listed on a food label, it's likely coming from chemicals and processed (unnatural) elements that are not healthy for the body. Some of the items (there are thousands of names for hiding these chemicals from us)  to avoid include:
   • Preservatives including BHA, BHT, brominated products
   • GMO - genetically modified organisms, common in corn and soy derivatives
   • Dextrose
   • Xanthan gum
   • Hydrocarbons (pesticides PCB, DDE, DDT)
   • Soy and cottonseed oil
   • Dyes (e.g., yellow dye no. 5, tartrazine)
   • MSG - monosodium glutamate (common in canned foods and Asian cooking)
   • Food allergens - if you or family members have a known allergy to peanuts, wheat, soy, or gluten

Worth repeating... If you are in a hurry and can't take the time to read labels, be sure to avoid packaged (bag, box, or bottle) foods. Instead, buy fresh foods and "eat a rainbow everyday" (e.g., fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds). Also, choose water, herbal teas, and for a fun added health benefit, try infusing your water/tea with doTerra Essential Oils!  Wonderful!  I specify the doTerra brand for internal use, because to my knowledge, this is the only brand with specific oils safe for human consumption. By the way, did you know "doTerra" means, "gift of the earth"? I like that.

Finally, pay attention to what's happening in the news ... in July 2015 the government proposed a new nutrition information panel for food labeling. The public is invited to provide comment.

References

Food for Thought. . .

"The only way to live a remarkable life is not to get everyone to notice you, but to leave noticeable marks of love everywhere you go"

- Ann Voskamp

Pumpkin

From Shakespeare's reference to "pumpion" in The Merry Wives of Windsor to The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, pumpkin is woven into the fabric of history and cuisine. Native Americans roasted long strips of pumpkin over an open flame and ate them. Colonists made pumpkin pie by slicing off the pumpkin top; removing the seeds; filling the rind with milk, spices, and honey; and then baking the pumpkin over hot ashes. And we all know pumpkin transforms into Jack-o-lanterns for Halloween decor. Today, we appreciate pumpkin not just for culinary traditions, but also for its abundance of nutrients and versatility in healthy meal preparation, such as soufflés, soups, bread, jam, butter, and desserts.

A member of the Cucurbitaceae family of vegetables (along with cucumber and squash), pumpkin is cultivated around the world for both its fleshy vibrant orange meat and seeds. It is a naturally low calorie (49 calories per one cup serving), yet filling food that offers the following health benefits:

Health Benefits

• Pumpkin contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. It is rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and many antioxidant vitamins, including A, C, and E.
• It is also an excellent source of many natural polyphenolic flavonoid compounds such as beta-carotenes, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Carotenes convert into vitamin A inside the body. Zeaxanthin is a natural antioxidant that may offer protection from age-related macular disease.
• Pumpkin is a good source of the B-complex group of vitamins including niacin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), thiamin, and pantothenic acid.
• It is a rich source of copper, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.
• Pumpkin seeds provide dietary fiber and pack a powerful mix of protein, minerals, and vitamins: 100 g (1 cup) of pumpkin seeds provide 559 calories, 30 g of protein, plus folate, iron, niacin, selenium, and zinc.

References

Spiced Pumpkin Bread

Adapted from Bon Appétit Fast, Easy and Fresh cookbook

Yield: 2 loaves

Preheat oven to 350°F

Butter and flour two 9x5x3 inch loaf pans (I use coconut oil and gluten free flour)

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour mix)
• 1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour mix)
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 2 c. raw sugar (or raw honey)
• 1 c. sunflower oil
• 3 large eggs (room temp)
• 15 oz. (1 can) pure pumpkin
• 1 c. chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Sift first eight ingredients into a large bowl. In second bowl, beat sugar and oil to blend, and then add eggs and pumpkin. Mix well. Stir dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture in two additions, just until blended. Add nuts, if desired.

Divide between loaf pans. Bake approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, or until tester inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to racks and cool in pans for 10 minutes. Cut around sides of pan with a knife to loosen. Turn loaves onto rack to cool completely.

References

What's Really in Your Herbal Remedy?

Herbal supplements (botanicals; plant-based medicine) have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Today they are recognized for having drug-like effects such as improving mood. Products that can have medicinal effects also carry risk, especially if taken with other medicines or supplements. However, most over-the-counter herbal supplements are not subjected to the same scientific scrutiny and aren't as strictly regulated as medications. Makers of herbal supplements are not required to submit their products for FDA approval before going to market. Their only requirement is to demonstrate their products meet quality manufacturing standards. Studies have shown this is not enough: Many over-the-counter herbals are contaminated or substituted with alternative plant species and fillers that are not listed on the label. According to the World Health Organization, this adulteration of herbal products is a threat to consumer safety.

Before buying herbal supplements, do your homework and investigate potential benefits and side effects. Follow our tips below to help identify quality herbal supplements. Before taking an herbal supplement, talk your health practitioner--especially if you take other medications, have chronic health problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Quality Factors: Look for products that indicate standardized extracts; no fillers, preservatives/additives; naturally harvested; fair-trade/sustainable manufacturing practices.

Quality Control: Quality control (QC) refers to processes for maintaining the purity of a product. Without QC, there is no assurance that the herb contained in the bottle is the same as what is stated on the outside. One of the key solutions to the QC problem that exists in the United States is for manufacturers and suppliers to adhere to standardized manufacturing practices.

Products should indicate they are third-party tested. Look for a USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia) seal of approval. Check products (and product recalls) on these websites: Council for Responsible Nutrition, ConsumerLabs, and the National Institutes of Health Dietary Supplement QA Program. Check the product website for more information.

References

September 2015

Natural Ways to Prevent and Treat Colds & Flu

When it comes to cold and flu season, prevention really is the first line of defense. To keep your body's defense system--the immune system--in peak condition, follow our immunity-boosting tips to help your body fight off the bugs looking for a host. And, for times when you are feeling ill, the second set of tips can help ease your symptoms and support a quick recovery.

Cold & Flu Prevention Tips

Your immune system is at work 24/7! The best approach to supporting immune function is a healthy lifestyle that includes stress management with CRT "Cranial Release Technique", exercise, whole foods, and plant-based whole food nutritional supplementation.   On a daily basis, you can take the following steps to help your immune system keep you healthy:

1. Wash your hands regularly to help prevent transfer of bacteria.
2. Stay clear of people sneezing or coughing. Avoid shaking hands or other close contact with anyone whom you know to be sick.
3. Make sure your home and work space are well-ventilated. Even on a cold day, open a window for a few minutes to clear out stale air.
4. Follow a consistent sleep/wake schedule so the immune system can repair and recover.
5. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and veggies, which contain antioxidants that help the body neutralize cellular damage.

Key Maintenance Tip

           1.  REGULAR CRT (Cranial Release Technique)... as often as possible. Weekly is recommended! Talk with Katy about                 the benefits of a CRT Savings Pass.

Healing Tips

1. Rest. Sometimes the body's only way of getting your attention is to force you to slow down by getting sick. Don't push through fatigue. Honor your body and sleep/rest as needed to promote healing. Reduce activity at home and at work as much as possible.
2. Increase fluid intake to include water, diluted vegetable juices, soups, and herbal and green teas.
3. Eat light meals and eat more soup. Whether you choose a vegetarian broth or a heartier bone-broth, soups for healing should be loaded with a variety of herbs and veggies.
4. Manage stress. "Take10"... 10 minutes, that is... to sit quietly and breathe. Setting time aside to pray and thank God for His many blessings has positive effects on the immune system and promotes a positive mindset.  1 Peter 5:7, cast all your cares on Him, because He cares for you.
5. Laugh--it truly is good medicine. Patch Adams was onto something when he brought humor to his patients' bedsides. Read a funny book. Watch stand-up comedy. Share jokes with a friend or your kids. Laughter lowers the stress hormones and elevates your mood--both are good for healing.

Vitamin, Mineral, and Botanical Support for the Immune System

There's no panacea, but a growing body of research has shown that certain vitamins, minerals, and plant-based supplements can help prevent/curtail the symptoms of colds and flu. Some that you may want to include are listed below. Talk to Katy, as these suggestions must be tailored to your specific needs and health status.

• Multivitamin and mineral formula
• Vitamin C
• Bioflavonoids, 1000 mg/day
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D, 2000 IU/day
• Zinc, 30 mg/day
• Echinacea, elderberry, and astragalus (tea, capsule, or liquid extract) help prevent common cold and viral infections. Physician-scientists continue to study the immune-enhancing effects of these and other botanical remedies.

References

Food for Thought. . .

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"

- Hippocrates

Eating Well for Super Immunity in the Winter Months

A healthy immune system is vital for helping your body deal with infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungus, and environmental toxins. As the winter months approach, it becomes even more important to support your immune system by consistently eating a balanced diet, exercising, and making healthy lifestyle choices. But the real fuel for a strong immune system is using food as medicine and having regular CRT, as mentioned earlier in this post.

Super Soup

An immunity-boosting diet includes light, easily digestible meals throughout the day, especially soup. A myriad of health benefits and flavors are derived from the herbs, vegetables, and broth. Soups also can help curtail the onset or ease the symptoms of colds and flu. Look for soups that include immunity-enhancing ingredients such as ginger, onion, garlic, mushrooms, and a variety of veggies and herbs in a broth-base. As always, organic food made from scratch is best!

Super-Immunity Diet Guidelines

• Include healthy fats such as Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil and organic extra virgin olive oil.
• When it comes to seasoning your foods, incorporate a variety of herbs and spices for flavor.
• For veggies, choose steamed broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes.
• Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, miso and organic greek yogurt help promote healthy intestinal flora and combat harmful bacteria in the GI tract.
• Limit red meat; instead, eat moderate amounts of fish and poultry.
• It's also smart to limit (or even eliminate) sugar in your diet. Studies have shown excessive sugar intake interferes with optimal immune system function.
• As far as beverages, the constituents in green tea have been shown to be both anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing.

Cheers to your good health this winter!

References

Immunity Boosting "Better than Chicken Soup"

This immunity-boosting soup is made with a virtual garden of powerful ingredients (in bold) that contain beneficial nutrients for your immune system:

Turmeric adds a subtle flavor and a beautiful yellow color. The active ingredient is curcumin, a powerful antioxidant.

Black pepper also has antioxidant properties.

Cayenne pepper can clear congestion due to the main active compoundcapsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

Shiitake mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals and contain unique phytonutrients that contribute to good health. Please use organic as much as possible!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 8 fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
• 4 cups low-sodium mushroom, vegetable, or chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups finely sliced kale
• 1 cup cubed butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 6 slices astragalus root (optional)
• 1 fresh lemon, Juice of
• 1 teaspoon miso

Instructions:

1. In a sauce pot over medium-high heat, add oil and cook onion and garlic, stirring frequently, for 3 minutes.
2. Stir in turmeric and mushrooms, and cook 2 minutes more.
3. Add broth, kale, squash, ginger, cayenne, and astragalus. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, add lemon juice and miso. Cover and let sit 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information per Serving: 90 calories (5 from fat), 0.5g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (6g dietary fiber, 5g sugar), 2g protein

References

Zinc

Next to iron, zinc is the most common mineral in the body and is found in every cell. It has an important role in the workings of the muscular system, reproductive systems in both men and women, and proper insulin and thyroid function. Zinc is a catalyst for the vitality of the skin and wound healing. However, zinc is probably best known for supporting the healthy functioning of the immune system.

Several studies have shown that zinc lozenges or syrup reduced the length of a cold by one day, especially when taken within 24 hours of the first signs and symptoms. Studies also show that taking zinc regularly might reduce the number of colds each year, the number of missed school days, and the amount of antibiotics required in otherwise healthy children. New studies are also looking at how the body uses zinc and whether or not taking zinc can improve the treatment of celiac disease, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease.

There are several forms of zinc, but not all are easily absorbed or appropriate for every person. The two best forms are zinc gluconate, and zinc citrate. According to the National Academy of Health Sciences, the need for a zinc supplement varies based on age, gender, pregnancy status, and other health factors. Zinc can interfere with the actions of some medications and can even affect the utilization of other minerals, such as copper. It's best to first consult with your wellness practitioner before taking zinc.

References

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)

For millennia, physicians and herbalists have found medicinal uses for all parts of the elder tree, including its wood, leaves, flowers, and berries. The branches of this native European plant were believed to cast off evil spirits. Leaves were used in ointments to heal wounds. Flowers and berries were used to make wine; infusions were a common treatment for colds and rheumatic conditions. Today, herbalists and holistic physicians commonly recommend elderberry for its immunity-boosting properties.

Elderberries are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids that act as antioxidants and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that elder extracts may inhibit the replication of viruses.

Elderberry syrup is made from an extract of elder fruits. Lozenges are often prepared with zinc and other herbs. Both are commonly used to help tame colds, coughs, and relieve flu symptoms. Syrups and lozenges are available on the market, but always check with your personal wellness practitioner to be sure it is a quality product and you are taking an appropriate dose.

Important caution: Unripe berries are not safe to eat nor are the other parts of the elder plant. Since elderberry stimulates the immune system, it is not recommended for people with autoimmune conditions.

References

Alleviate Congestion with Magic Socks

You'd probably never guess that a pair of wet socks could pull congestion from your head and stimulate your immune system. Sounds like hocus-pocus promoted by a traveling charlatan, right?

Historically, this hydrotherapy was called "Wet Sock Therapy." At some point, a marketing savvy naturopath explained to young patients that the overnight drying of the socks was a "healing magic trick" and the name quickly evolved into "Magic Socks." Kids love it and it actually does work like magic to arrest the onset of mild colds and flus. Here's how:

When covered (insulated) with wool, damp socks draw congestion from the head and work overnight to stimulate systemic circulation. This treatment reflexively decreases congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head, and throat. Try adding a dab of vicks vapor rub to the bottoms of feet.

The socks will dry overnight as the body brings warm, fresh blood to the feet. This, in turn, invigorates the immune system and helps fend off acute illness. Magic Socks can be used nightly when any concern exists about the onset of an acute infection or illness and with any ongoing insomnia.

For best results repeat treatment for three nights in a row or as instructed by your doctor. If you develop a loss of sensation in your feet while using Magic Socks, remove the socks and check in with your doctor. Do not use this therapy with any condition that has resulted in loss of sensation or circulation to the feet unless first consulting with your doctor.

Make a Pair of Magic (Wet) Socks

1. Before bed, wet a pair of thin, cotton anklets in cold water.
2. Wring out excess water and place in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.
3. Apply a dab of vicks vapor rub to bottoms of feet.
4. Put the socks on your feet.
5. Pull a pair of heavy wool socks over the anklets and climb into bed.
6. Cover well; sleep all night with the socks on.

References

Guiding Principles

The information offered by this newsletter is presented for educational purposes. Nothing contained within should be construed as nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. This information should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program. You should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of any information contained within this newsletter.