Women's Health

Please read my disclaimer before proceeding!

Acid Reflux:  Acid reflux is where stomach acid comes back up in the esophagus and throat. 

Acid reflux can be caused by both internal and external conditions.  Externally, acid reflux can be triggered by stress brought on by our job and family demands.  Internally, acid reflux can be triggered by certain foods such high fat meals, juices such as orange and tomato; and other foods and drinks such as alcohol and caffeine. These foods can cause problems such as heartburn and acute stomach pain.

Acid reflux is more common among our older generation due to the breakdown in the ability to digest foods properly.

Left untreated, acid reflux can lead to a condition known as Barrett's esophagus, which is severe damage to the skin-like lining of the esophagus.

The primary goal is to increase the body’s ability to digest foods properly as well as eliminate the toxins from the body.

Over-the-counter products, which can contain harmful ingredients, only serve to mask the cause by temporarily relieving the symptoms.

A change in one’s diet is recommended in the relief of acid reflux. 

Recommendations:

The intake of rice, preferably basmati as it is easily digested. 

Small amounts of animal protein may be added.  (I prefer a vegetarian diet.)

Avoid fried foods as well as foods made from refined grains.

Eat vegetables that are in season according to the geographical location.  These vegetables are beneficial in assisting the body in eliminating toxins from processed foods and foods high in animal fat.

Consume only small amounts of locally grown fruits.  Eat only the whole fruit and not the processed juices found in local food stores.

Limit or avoid dairy products as some people find it difficult to digest or are lactose intolerant.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption.  Instead drink water or herbal teas.

The use of olive oil, sesame oil and clarified butter may be consumed in moderation.  (15-30% of total daily calories may be included.)

Vitamin supplements should not be necessary if the proper diet and balance of proteins, grains and vegetables are observed and followed.

Be sure to include kelp in the diet to obtain the necessary amount of trace minerals.

Cooking with spices.

When preparing foods any number of spices will assist in the relief of acid reflux including the following spices: 

Anise – use anise in salads, breads or as a tea as a stimulant. 

Basil – use basil to aid indigestion.

Cloves – use cloves to improve digestion.

Ginger root – use ginger root in both cooking and as a tea to benefit the stomach and intestines. 

Include teas and/or tinctures of the following herbs.

For a demulcent:  Slippery Elm bark or marshmallow to lubricate and relieve gastro-intestinal irritations. 

For a stimulant:  Ginger root to stimulates the digestive function. Ginger is warming and stimulating, promoting gastric secretion and aiding the absorption of food.  It is excellent for easing indigestion, colic and flatulence.

For a cholagogue:  Licorice root as a remedy for the digestive system.  It is a gentle laxative and lowers stomach-acid levels to relieve heartburn, as well as, acid reflux.

Note:  In addition to changes in one’s diet, the level of stress should be lowered through the use of breathing techniques and stress management.

Arthritis:  Arthritis which is an inflammation of the joints and cartilage can affect any part of the body including, but limited to the fingers, knees, feet or any area that involves movement.  One common form of arthritis is Osteoarthritis affects over 15 million Americans.  It is associated with repetitive physical tasks or activities that places stress on the joints.  Osteoarthritis primarily affects women between the ages of 25 and 50, but can occur at any age.

Before recommending any herbs I would like to point out the need for mild exercise to prevent the joints from becoming painfully stiff from inactivity.  Such exercise would include tai chi for gentle non-impact movement.  According to Dr. Andrew Weil, a recent study showed that osteoarthritis patients who signed on for a three-month tai chi program significantly improved their flexibility and mobility.  In addition to tai chi, Dr. Weil recommended water aerobics as a good cardiovascular workout without stressing the joints.

I also recommend, from personal experience, deep-breathing exercises to reduce stress and tension by increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood-stream.  I also recommend, if you are overweight, a weight program to reduce stress on the joints.

In addition, reduce your intake of animal food, alcohol, sugar and denatured foods as they promote the deposit of uric acid in the joints.  Avoid dampness and coldness of the joints and use a rubefacient or circulation-promoting herb, externally.

Herbal Applications 

Internal application for circulation:

As indicated in The Way of Herbs, a tea can be made of the following herbs by simmering one ounce per pint of water for 30 minutes.  The concoction should then be taken warm as ½ cup every 2 hours to induce perspiration.  Between does take a nerve tonic or powder with warm water of equal parts skullcap, valerian and lady’s slipper, or combine the herbs and fill 2 capsules, or make into a tincture and administer 1 teaspoon. 

Oregon Grape Root (6 parts)
Part Used: Rhizome and root
Major Properties: Ccholagogue, alternative

 Rhizome as a cholagogue to promote the elimination of toxins and improve the function of the liver. *Should not be taken over a prolonged period of time.

Prince’s Pine (Pipsissewa) (6 parts)
Part Used: Leaves
Major Properties: Diuretic, astringent, alternative, bitter-tonic

 Disinfects the urinary tract and has fewer tannins than other similar herbs.  Acts as a diuretic to help reduce swelling.

Sassafras (3 parts)
Part Used: Root bark and root
Major Properties: Alternative, diuretic, anti-rheumatic

 Used as a diuretic for the treatment of arthritic and rheumatic complaints. *Is best used in combination with other herbs.

Prickly Ash Bark (3 parts)
Part Used: Bark and berries
Major Properties: Stimulant, anti-rheumatic, alternative

 Used as a stimulant for blood and lymphatic circulation.  Also used as a blood purifier for accumulations in the joints.

Black Cohosh (3 parts)
Part Used: Root
Major Properties: Anti-spasmodic

 Used as an aid in the relief of arthritic pain.

(From the New Age Herbalist)

Guaiacum (3 parts)
Part Used: Gum or resin
Major Properties: Stimulant

 Used to stimulate the circulation and to reduce inflammation.

Ginger Root (2 parts)
Part Used: Root

 Used to stimulate blood flow and so it is good for cold hands and feet.

 External application: 

The following warming herbs should be made into a poultice, fomentation or liniment.

Ginger (2 parts)
Cayenne (1 part)
Lobelia (1/2 part)

In addition, the essential oil of eucalyptus, diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond or olive oil, can be applied to the affected joints to relieve the pain and warm the joint(s).  Eucalyptus oil can penetrate into the muscles, increasing blood circulation.