OCTOBER 31, 2011 CUCURBITA PEPO.

"WE ARE CONTINUALLY FACED BY GREAT OPPORTUNITIES BRILLIANTLY DISGUISED AS INSOLUBLE PROBLEMS." - lee iococca

What you think is insoluble is not! It is disguised. How many disguises do we have within us? Are these disguises a means of defense mechanism? We all use defense mechanisms. These are means by which some of us simply get through life. I've had many defense mechanisms in the past. I am sure I still retain some, but the difference is today I can tell when these mechanisms are getting stronger and insidious...like addictions. I realize today that I have great opportunities ahead of me. What I have or do is not enough. I am always in search of more. Life is too short. I want to do more in life. I should be content with what I have, but I am not. I am a perpetual student---perhaps this is my disguise!

What is Cucurbita pepo? It is simply Pumpkin which is an appropriate choice for today. The Greeks called it one of the "four greater cold seeds" according to Matthew Wood (Old World Medicinal Plants)

The part of the pumpkin used medicinally are the seeds. The pulp is now used for pumpkin soup which has become increasingly popular. The content of the seeds are a fatty oil, curcurebitin, albumin, lecithin and phytosterin. In Sauer's Herbal Cures, pumpkin is discussed as a remedy for worms and tapeworms. There is an anti-helmintic shake called Pepita which is used to rid the body of tapeworms.

Reflecting back I have always loved pumpkin seeds, although when I grew up it was not that popular. I particularly love the salted ones.Today, because of its protein content, zinc content and its positive effect of the prostate--more of us consume pumpkin seeds. Men not only reap the good benefits on the prostate, but zinc is needed for sperm motility. Do I recommend pumpkin seeds to women? The answer is yes for the irritable bladder (sometimes called interstitial cystitis).

Other uses of pumpkin seeds are for bloating, gastric burning, and even hot flashes (not menopausal flashes but hot flashes due to hot spicy foods)

So pumpkin seeds are good for more than just the prostate. I recommend the fresh seeds. I have even seen other herbalists use the pumpkin seed oil.

Another reminder is that beta carotene is also found in pumpkin.

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 30, 2011 MAMA MIA ... IT'S OREGANO

"May the bridges I burn light the way."

I have burned many bridges in my time. Most of them were burned during the years I was not sober. I try to the best of my ability not to burn bridges today. You never know. Years ago not only did I burn the bridge but I treated everything and everybody as if "black or white". There was no in between-there was no grey. If I got hurt or disappointed by someone, immediately he/she was cut out of my life. The freezer might be another choice. Today I do not cut people out of my life, but I am more careful. I need to protect myself. We all need to protect ourselves.

As an Italian, there are certain herbs my family, especially my grandfather used in his cooking. There was basil, fennel, thyme, rosemary and of course, oregano (Origanum vulgare). This herb is also called Wild Oregano or Wild Marjoram. According to Matthew Wood, this is an old world mint. It is analogous to its American cousin Montarda fistulosa which until recently I had never heard of. Not only do some of my patients use oregano for infection but many use the essential oil, Oil of Oregano. The Oregano plant contains flavinoids, trepenoids, Vitamin A and C and of course, the volatile oils.

I think it is important to mention the taste. David Winston RH lectures on the ten different tastes of herbs. This herb is pungent. The energetic of a pungent herb is hot/dry. Garlic, cayenne pepper and ginger are also pungent herbs. I use pungent herbs for digestion, better kidney flow, and as an antibacterial.

Oregano is used for cold and flu, respiratory tract infections, candida and surprisingly, for tinnitus (ringing in the ears). It is also great for halitosis - too bad for Clark Gable's leading ladies that he did not know about it!

As far as the essential oil of oregano, this is a good broad spectrum anti infective remedy high in the phenol called carvacrol. This oil has great antioxidant and immuno-boosting actions. It can be used for parasitic infections as well as viral infections, even shingles.

Oil of oregano is volatile. It should not be used without discussing it with your health care practitioner. Oregano oil should not be used on an on going basis for any reason. Just as you can develop resistance to antibiotic drugs, you can also develop oregano oil resistance. The reason I feel there is over abuse of oregano is because it is now available in gel cap, and over the counter oregano oil. Be wise and careful!

Surprisingly to me, oregano is not mentioned in the bible. James Duke's Medicinal Plants of the Bible does mention one species of oregano. It is the Lebanese Oregano (Origanum syriacum L.). This species is referred to hyssop in the Bible. This oregano grows abundantly in the Holy Land, but is different from the oregano discussed above.

"May you purify me from sin with hyssop, that I may be clean; may you wash me, that I may become whiter than even snow."

--Psalms 5:17 (NWT)

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 29, 2011 IF MY FRIENDS COULD SEE ME NOW

"A simple shift in attitude can help us recognize the hidden potential for fulfillment in every event" Kwee Lain, DailyOM

I do know if I like the first part of the phrase. I would rather read "A simple shift in gratitude..." I have learned that it is gratitude not attitude that counts. I understand and recognize what the phrase is saying but I might change it if I was the author.

I would love to control the situation when it comes to treatment of diseases using a natural approach in lieu of conventional medications. There are many integrative treatments for glaucoma. This is a hot topic. I utilize many supplements as well as herbs to treat glaucoma.

As I am writing this I am thinking about the song "If My Friends Could See Me Now..." from the 1966 Broadway musical, Sweet Charity staring Gwen Verdon. You probably know the more popular 1969 film adaption of Sweet Charity staring Shirley MacLaine. I do not see many of my friends from years gone by- grade school, middle school, high school or college- If they could see me now...what would they say???? The only 'school' friends I am in contact with are from my Fellowship in Integrative Medicine or the NE School of Botanical Medicine.

The term glaucoma is defined as a collection of diseases that causes optic nerve damage and the diagnosis should not be based on just the intraocular pressure (IOL) There are many types- open angle, narrow angle, low tension secondary and even congenital.

Let me tell you a myth about glaucoma. It is a myth - lowering eye pressure with eye drops will prevent further damage. THERE IS NO TRUTH IN THAT MYTH.

The contributing factors to glaucoma which are stress, poor diet or nutritional deficiencies, and obesity. A diet high in beta carotene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E and selenium will help. The foods containing these supplements are garlic, onions (they are in the same genus) spinach, celery, turnips, yellow and orange vegetables, leafy green vegetables, seaweed, apples, tomatoes and oranges. I think you should add them by using the colored powders (Greens, Reds, Purples, Oranges) at Longevity Nutritionals. Also drink lots of water to allow proper toxic metabolic wastes from the eye tissue.

I have even seen glaucoma worsen in patients who have food allergies especially wheat/dairy/vinegar products. Eye pressure has been shown to increase when patients are exposed to MSG.

There are essential nutritional supplements for the eye. One is the well discussed Vitamin C. It lowers the eye pressure through a combination of decreasing fluid production in the eye and improving output of the aqueous humor. Essential Fatty acids may reduce the chronic inflammation. So do not forget your fish oils. Also you can use black currant oil and flax seed oil if you do not to ingest fish oils. Studies have shown that alpha lipoic acid benefits the color vision in patients with glaucoma. It also enhances glutathione, Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

The amino acid, taurine protects the eye from neurotoxins that include excessive levels of glutamate that is responsible for the loss of ganglion cells and optic nerve damage.

I love to use Coleus forskohlii as it has been shown to lower the intraocular pressure by relaxing the smooth muscles of the eye. Unfortunately you cannot get a food source for coleus, you must take the supplement. I have seen many patients use Coleus, and must then reduce their conventional Opthalmic drops like Timoilol or Alphagan.

I am a little cautious about Ginkgo biloba as there is a high increased incidence of bleeding. Yet other studies to reveal that ginkgo lowers IOC. There again is no natural food source for ginkgo.

Vaccinium myrtillus (Bilberry) has more than 50 years of research on its benefits for the eye. It also has other great uses, but most are familiar with the eye. Bilberry improves the delivery of oxygen and blood to the eye. It has many antioxidants.

Get Greens, Reds, Purples and Oranges for your eyes at Longevity Nutritionals.

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 28, 2011 A WALKING TOUR; WHAT THE F*CK IS A NEVELSON?

"If you cannot work with love but only with distaste, it is better that you should leave your work..."
Khalil Gibran

I can not imagine being a doctor if I didn't love what I do. It is tough at times. I am sure many of us feel this way at one time or another in our work. How could I heal if I didn't love what I do? I do not like every aspect of my job. I do not like telling a patient there is a high suspicion of cancer and then confirming that suspicion. I do love when someone feels better after suffering for a period of a time with an illness. I love people. I love talking to people.

At one point in my life I didn't like the office I was employed in as a physician. I decided to leave after 2 years. It was a bold move considering I had just started practicing, but I was miserable and unhappy each and every day. I resigned. I think about that today. It was something I had to do in order to get where I am today.

Preserving an image on a camera is something I have taken for granted over the years. But it provides important connections to my past. Without photographs, I would have no evidence of my grandparents 50th and then their 60th wedding anniversaries, my high school championship win for the one mile walk or even just how tiny my children were when they were born. Yes, photography is a hobby which I admire. Some people have a great eye for capturing moments. One person in particular is Rick. Yes photography can be a hobby, but for some it is a lifetime career.

As I was thinking about photography (which I dabble in-- I am not that good), I was thinking about art, particularly sculpture and its preservation.

A fun New York City activity is to visit all the statues in Central Park. There are plenty. I wanted something unique, and I couldn't think of anything till I remembered the documentary, Who the *$&% Is Jackson Pollock? Then I remembered the movie, Pollack starring Ed Harris.

Here is a real hard one that can be a fun hobby: What the F*CK is a Nevelson? Now this would be an adventure. She was a New Englander of extraordinary beauty, energy and talent: Louise Nevelson. She was a sculpturist. An artist. A woman not of her time. An eccentric woman who lived at 29 Spring Street towards the end of her life. Today, as in the 1970's, there are Nevelson sculptures scattered across the city. In the southeast corner of Central Park once stood Night Presence IV. I do not even know if it is still there. Rick and I will have a new adventure to find out!

She was born in Russia in the late 1890's. Her artwork is in every major museum in New York City, but I bet you have never heard of her. I didn't hear of her until reading a paperback book of her life some 8 years ago. I do not know why she popped into my mind this week. She had a artist's retrospective in 1967 at the Whitney. She had given the museum more than $350,000 worth of art at that time. She constantly pursued her independence, sometimes won and sometimes lost- but always prevailed. She died on April 17, 1988. She was a woman artist, unheard of at her time in her life. Yes we all know Georgia O'Keefe, but few know the life, love and work of Louise Nevelson.

Her memorial service was held in the Medieval Sculpture Hall of the Metropolitan Museum. She donated more than 5 million dollars worth of her sculptures to the Metropolitan and Chicago Museums before her death. I guess since visiting the Dali Museum in St. Petersberg I have art on my mind.

Sometimes like photographs, art work is lost. Sadly, in the 9/11 attacks lives were lost. The public artwork display was also lost. Nevelson's 1978 wood relief Sky Gate, depicting the New York skyline was lost.

Your task ..my task.. find Louise Nevelson works throughout the City of New York. Some are housed in museums and some are scattered across this City That Never Sleeps. A different kind of hobby, to boost your self esteem and...just plain fun!

"Some of us come on earth seeing, Some of us come on earth seeing color."
-Louise Nevelson

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 27, 2011 ESTROGEN

"FEAR, UNCERTAINTY AND DISCOMFORT ARE YOUR COMPASSES TOWARDS GROWTH."

This is something no one wants to discuss. Certainly, I do not want to discuss my fears and discomfort. I am feeling uncomfortable. Yes, I said it and now I wrote it. This means I will work on it. I will grow in a positive direction. This creates fear, but I have come to know that fear is good. It means a need for change. I must change some of my stinking thinking. We all have some stinking thinking. I am not perfect. Remember it is always progress, and never perfection.

Some doctors ask why as a cardiologist do I use natural hormonal replacement therapy for women. True I am not a gynecologist, but I am a doctor. I look at the overall health of my patients. All of the hormones in a woman's body interact with each other. What you need to understand is that hormonal imbalance in a women can happen at any age. It is not just for the post-menopausal women. ANATOMY LESSON: Estrogen is made in the ovaries . There are estrogen receptors on many organs including the breasts, brain, vagina, eyes, heart and even the lungs.

There are more than 400 functions of estrogen. I cannot write all of the beneficial actions of estrogen in a woman's body.

Some are the following:

1. decrease the incidence of colon cancer

2. dilate smaller arterioles

3. lowers lipoprotein@ - a cardiac risk factor

4. decreases wrinkles

5. helps prevent tooth loss

6. helps with fine motor skills

7. improves insulin sensitivity

8. increases concentration

9. reduces overall risk factors for heart disease

10. helps maintain memory

and much more

Some of the signs and symptoms of estrogen deficiency:

1. acne

2. anxiety

3. arthritis

4. food cravings

5. chronic fatigue

6. depression


7. diabetes

8. vaginal dryness

9. increase in facial hair

10. infertility

11. more wrinkles

12. oily skin

More on estrogen

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 26, 2011 WATER, WATER AND MORE WATER

"The whole world as we experience it VISUALLY comes to us through the mystic realm of COLOR." Hans Hofman

Even though I complain about certain things I have come to look at the glass half full. I do not see the glass all the time like this, but in moments, I do. When greeted by our pets, Spencer and Grant (and those no longer here - Jack, Cary, Jake, Kate), the look in their eyes when they run to the door is never forgotten; the uncapturable scent of a Passionflower or a Rose; and in a baby's smile. It is important for me to find those moments every day. I have the good fortune of seeing it in patient's expressions too. We all are not from Red or Blue states, but from the Mother Earth. Mother Earth brought us the realm of color as stated above.

I have also been reminded that there is no right or wrong in a disagreement. It is instead the different perceptions of those involved. Last night I prayed and meditated before a well needed massage. Not to be right, but to be heard. Certain feelings sometimes need to be spoken-- between a parent and a child, a husband and a wife, a friend and a friend and even a husband and a husband.

In Mack and Mable, Jerry Herman wrote a true song called, "Time Heals Everything." If it is meant to be - it will be and if not that is alright too. It takes communication. I know life can be too short in some instances.

See the world as a gift from a Higher Power. Live in the realm of beauty and color!

Color - Does water have a color? Since I was a child my mother said drink more water. Nutritionists have emploring Americans to drink more water in spoken lectures and in books for more than 50 years. The message has been received loud and clear. I am no exception. I always tell a patient to drink more water. How much is enough? There is much miscommunication in how much to drink. What is enough water? I have heard and read that 1/2 of your body weight should be drank in fluid ounces each day. So if you are 160 poiunds, then you should drink 80 fluid ounces per day. Boy, that seems to be a lot. And you better know where the bathroom is as you get older if you are drinking that much water.

There is NO scientific research that states you need eight, eight ounce glasses of water per day. This is from the 1945 recommendation of the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Research Council. It was also stated 1 milliliter for each calorie of food. Wow, can you believe that. Who is this Research Council ?

In 2002 the American Journal of Physiology stated that most of this water comes from the food we eat. I can tell you that drinking too much water can also be harmful. The National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine recommend the general daily intake for women and men to be 91 and 12 ounces, respectively.

I also found it interesting that the American College of Nutrition showed in a study that the body doesn't distinguish between regular and decaf beverages when it comes to hydration. So, I now say drink caffeinated beverages providing their are no palpitations. There are studies to show that 6 - 6 ounce cups of regular coffee without milk and sugar per day prevents Alzheimer's Disease. Let's talk about the color of the urine. If the urine is too clear, this could be a sign of too much water. Too yellow can be a sign of too little water. Brown colored urine could be a sign of bleeding or infection. So you see, color is mystic.

I love when a patient states that their appetite gets depressed when he/she drinks more water. This is not studied, researched or proven. I will tell you that eating foods that have a high water content like fruits (especially watermelon), vegetables and grains can help us feel full.

This is the most shocking news: The Natural Resources Defense Council has cited the government and the water industry for finding that 25 % of bottled water is nothing but plain TAP WATER. Sometimes this is treated and sometimes not.

Now what do you believe?

Happy Face Today (A tag line from the movie--Strictly Ballroom)

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 25, 2011 THE CURVED PENIS

"Get peaceful first and let your work and life emerge from that base."

I will admit it is difficult to get peaceful and serene at times. We all have these moments. Some of us suffer more than others. Life cannot go forward unless we get peaceful first. I accomplish this through meditation and prayer. I focus on my breathing in order to regain some serenity. I also have many hobbies that have helped me through the last seventeen years of sobriety.

If you are man with a curved penis, it is difficult to get peaceful, especially during sexual activity. This abnormal curvature of the penis is called Peyronie's disease. The cause is fibrous scar tissue that develops under the skin of the penis. It is not unlike the thick cord that develops across one or both palms of the hands. That condition is called Duputren's contracture. Very few people who have Dupuytren's contracture also develop curvature of the penis.

Research states that Peyronie's disease (PD) is uncommon and affects men between the ages of 40-60. In my practice I find this disease fairly common and I have seen it in younger men as well.

The scar tissue (plaque) makes it painful especially during erections, and thus during intercourse. There is no one specific treatment for Peyroine's although I have used several in my years of clinical practice.

Some of the treatments I have used are:

1. Enzyme formulas especially containing rutin and papain

2. Acetyl L - carnitine - restore male sexual energy function

3. L- arginine - another amino acid that releases nitric oxide, thus vaso dilating the penile vessels. This will still be painful, so I always use #4 with this.

4. EDTA- a chelator, to remove plaque. A chelator is derived from the Greek word chelate which means crab or "to grab onto." I recommend using a rectal suppository weekly to bi weekly for 15 weeks.

5. DMSO -Dimethyl Sulfoxide - this is a transdermal product with anti inflammatory properties that affect the tissue underneath.

6. Gotu kola ( Centella asiatica) - this is an herbal remedy. I have used this red flowered herb that grows in hot swampy areas of Southeast Asia and India more often for children with autism, but I have used it occasionally for PD.

It is often called the brain herb. After years of studying herbs, I am not a one herb/one disease practitioner. There are very few herbs I use only in the treatment of a single disease.


At the American herbal Guild symposium I had the pleasure of listening to colleague Eric Yarnell, ND (www.heronbotanicals.com ) from Bastyr University in Washington State. Eric is a a great educator. He is the author many books, and his 2nd edition of Clinical Botanical Medicine is one of my favorites. Eric has used Gotu kola in a cream applied topically to the area of scar tissue with some good results. I believe this works by stimulating the development of blood vessels in connective tissue on the penis. If you improve the condition of the site of injury, blood flow will be enhanced and there will be a reduction in scar or fibrous tissue. According to Eric, results can be seen after 6 - 8 weeks of treatment.

Your choice: A CROOKED PAINFUL PENIS or A SMOOTHER, LESS PAINFUL PENIS

You make the choice

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 24, 2011 THE FUNGI IMPERFECTI: SALVADOR DALI

"Smart people learn only from their teachers. Wise people learn from everyone" Yehuda Berg

I have used this quote before in the past. This past weekend is an example of learning, educating and 'fulfilling a dream'. Earlier this year, I became a registered herbalist (RH) from the American Herbal Guild (AHG) so this year I attended this conference as an MD RH. This weekend the conference was held in St. Petersburg Florida. I didn't know where St Petersburg was, but I knew one fact: The Salvador Dali Museum is located there. I had two reasons to attend this conference. For one reason or another I have been fascinated with Dali since I was a teenager. I have read, visited museums that had a single Dali work, and prior to 2005 I went to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see their exhibition. Rick and I have even been to his museum in Spain.

I was not an ideal conference attendee this year. I blocked the schedule on Saturday to go to the new Dali Museum. I had tears in my eyes as I approached the entrance. I couldn't believe I was there. I had a guided tour which was truly inspirational. I viewed The Hallucinogenic Toreador (1969-70) as well as other monumental canvases. Dali used the figure of Venus reproduced on a box of Venus pencils for the image of the dead toreador. This was one of many of his paintings that contains double images. I saw images of his wife, Gala in many of his paintings. I have viewed them all in books, but standing before the 14' by 10' work The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbis (1958-9) was breath taking. (http://www.thedali.org/)

I was sad to leave after a few hours. I walked down 1st Ave and acquired a bottle of local honey (of course) from a local market. I walked down Central Ave to the bus stop, passing shop after shop. I did that because I had googled "Needlepoint Stores in St Petersburg". It was a long walk to reach 2119 Central from 20 Central but I did it. I finally arrived at Silk Needle Arts. I found a canvas by Charlie Harper. This will be my third in a series. I need the Raccoons one day.

Then I returned to the conference to hear the most invigorating speaker (the previous night's Key Note) discuss MUSHROOMS.

Paul Stamets is one of the forerunners in the field of Mushrooms. His book 'Mycelium Running" (which he signed for me) is outstanding. It invigorates the mind. He is a visionary with the insight to try to save the world. He is doing just that. I cannot tell you how exciting this is. In a nut shell it goes like this. Microscopic cells, called mycelium (the underground part of a mushroom you do not see) recycle carbon, nitrogen and other essential elements. These mycelia break down animal and plant debris and create new soil. Paul has found that WE, THE EARTH MOTHER, can captivate this mycelium energy and power to decompose toxic waste (which is, by the way killing life as we know it on our planet). It goes farther than this. We can eliminate pathogens from our agricultural industry without traditional petrochemicals. By doing all this we can help forests and gardens to thrive. His possibilities for using mushrooms are endless. There are non harmful possibilities beyond our wildest dreams. The book is a must read for anyone. If you want to start simpler, read his Gourmet and Medicinal Mushroom book.

He is in my estimation the single most important person in the field of mushrooms. His lectures are always informative and real. Real in the sense that he loves what he does. He truly loves and gets excited about his field of mushrooms. He wants to save the Mother Earth. He is saving the Mother Earth with each new discovery and technique such as his new concept, the Life Box. It seems it takes our own government some time to catch on to this innovating, life saving and viable lesson to save our planet. Isn't this what we all should be doing? Not as intense as Paul, but in some way try to save the plants, the bees, the animals, and of course, yourself.

When people hear about Paul's work with mushrooms, they might say what an interviewer asked Salvador Dali--

The question was "Are you on drugs?" Dali replied, "I am a drug."

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 23,2011 MORE ESSENTIAL OILS

"Live with hope for the possibilities and accept the good that comes."

Can you accept the good that comes your way? In the past I never could. If things started to get good I would sabatoge them. It was a very different time in my life. Today I live a life that I always wanted to live. I feel so serene today. I have had the pleasure and company of colleagues and friends from my herbal/botanical world. I never thought this would be a possibility in my lifetime. I love how I treat patients. I love the incorporation of different disciplines of medicine. Now using essential oil with herbal medicines is yet another possibility. I have learned through prayer, meditation, communication and meetings to live with hope, have no expectations and the good will come. It has --

Each form of administration of an essential oil achieves a slightly different effect on the area it is treating. With the essential oil treatment you try to get the closest to the area that is infected. Most oils do not damage the microflora. I was fascinated to learn the routes of internal administration of the essential oils. I was ignorant about the workings of Essential Oils. For me, this is part of the learning curve and so I have something new to learn and incorporate into my herbal practice.

Some of the administrations are:

1. gel capsules

2. sublingual preparation

3. rectal suppository (systemic absorption is excellent)

4. vaginal sponge

5. vaginal pessary

6. organic tampons

7. skin preparations

8. inhalation - nebulizer or diffuser

To use oils clinically we always need a good source. I know there are many essential oil companies on the market. I wouldn't know the best source, but here is a clue. During this essential oil lecture, the participants were allowed to smell a variety of oils. The oil vials were passed around the room. I noticed the company on each vial. It was Snow Lotus. Their web site on the bottle was http://www.snowlotus.org/

I know many herbs that are anti microbial but I do not know any essential oil except tea tea oil,

(Melaleuca alternifolia). I have used tea tree oil for many fungal infections. This well researched oil is also used for bacterial infections of upper and lower respiratory tract, intestinal dysbiosis and even periodontitis. Great for HSV-1 , genital warts and other viral infections.

I did get to smell an essential oil called Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini). It is a relative of Lemongrass- different species C. citratus. Palmerosa is equally antifungal and antibacterial with a broad range of infections. It is also anti-inflammatory.

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 22, 2011 ESSENTIAL OILS USE IN INFECTION

"TRUST that the plan is good, even when WE do not know what it is"

You must have trust to move ahead in this world. You must know that nothing will be put in your path that you cannot handle. Often I go with the flow. At this time in my life I trust my natural instincts and intuition. This is something I never did years ago.

We have a crisis on our hands. It is in the field of antibiotic treatment for a wide variety of infections-bacterial, viral, parasitic and fungal. At the American Herbal Guild Symposium Annual Conference in St. Petersburg, FL (October 20-23, 2011), I was intrigued by a lecture on the Clinical Use of Essential Oils in the treatment of infections. An essential oil is a specific type of extract not unlike an herbal preparation as a tincture. The treatment of infections with essential oils was pioneered in the 1950's by French doctors. In the past when I thought of essential oils, my mind would conjure thoughts of aromatherapy. The phenomena of aromatherapy with essential oils has confused practitioners and the general public. There is a fair amount of ignorance and confusion regarding the use of essential oils.

We all have seen the vials of essential oils in an herbal/vitamin store. You also might see them at your Co-op or even at your local Green Market. The essential oils used in aromatherapy stimulate the limbic system of the brain thus stimulating the olfactory senses. I know many who use essential oils for the treatment of stress related disorders. We all have plenty of stress. The inhalation of these essential oils modulates hormones and neurotransmitters.

We need to make a distinction between aromatherapy and essential oils, and integrate essential oils and herbal medicine. In Europe, specifically in France and England, essential oils and herbal medicine are not separate entities.

However, it was only in the 1930s that Aromatherapy received a wider acceptance. Rene-Maurice Gatte Fosse, a French chemist, dipped his burnt hand in lavender oil. To his surprise, the wound healed very quickly, and without any infection or scarring. This inspired him to do considerable research on various oils and their therapeutic and psycho-therapeutic properties.

The French army doctor, Jean Velnet used essential oils in World War II. Madame Morquerite Murry brought a holistic approach to the use of aroma oils by experimenting with them for individual problems.

So why haven't you heard of it? Perhaps your health care practitioner is allopathic. Perhaps he is so conventional that if he discounts supplements/vitamins he will definitely never consider using an herb or an essential oil for any treatment of an allopathic disease like arthritis or asthma.

The clinical presentation of an infection is different from individual to individual. It can be a pain-free (viral) infection, or an infection with massive inflammation, or even an infection with a discharge. I treat the whole person as a single entity, NOT just the symptoms of a disease or not just an infection.

Use of Essential Oils is another modality of medicine. The quote above sealed it for me. I know I have another plan yet ahead of me. After listening to Peter Holmes, LAc MH I know there is no reason not to integrate herbs with essential oils. I know I will be incorporating essential oils with herbs and beeswax to create lip balms.

There is no reason why an infection cannot be controlled with essential oils to prevent that infection from becoming sub acute or chronic. Choosing the right essential oil for the infection at hand involves chemistry as well as knowledge and intuition.

Photograph: Top right: Dr Jean

Other two: From Trade Winds Resort, St Pete Beach 10/21/11

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 21, 2011 HERPETOLOGY

"FORGIVENESS is not something we do for other people. We do it for ourselves- to get well and move on."

Practice forgiveness for yourself. If you practice forgiveness because others think it is the right thing to do--you are not doing it to help yourself. When you recognize anger and resentment, meditate, pray and forgive. Forgive from the heart. I am the same person I have always been- a little wiser, a little kinder and a lot sober. I am the man I always wanted to be.

I am a poster child for learning. I am always learning something new. I love learning. I didn't know what herpetology was until I was reading a colleague/friend and mentor's blog. His name is 7song. I am awe of his photographs which are above, in addition to his constant flux of learning.
HERPETOLOGY is not the study of the herpes virus. It is a branch of zoology concerned with the study of amphibians and reptiles. I also found out that the study of amphibians alone is called Batrachology.

When I was growing up I loved all animals. I loved going into the woodlands upstate and finding amphibians and reptiles. This is why I loved studying in Ithaca, New York with 7song. I could spend my life in a town like Ithaca. Perhaps one day--beyond my wildest dreams-- I will! As a child I used to have box turtles, frogs, and newts; and would have had snakes if my dad had not been so fearful of them.

Today, I know Herpetology does serve some benefits for humanity. Amphibians and reptiles are very sensitive to environmental changes. All species of animals are affected by global warming--not just polar bears.

We also have snake venom's being used as medicine in some circumstances.

This is a remarkable branch of zoology.

I am not studying herpetology yet, but I am studying Apiology. This is the study of honeybees, which is a sub discipline of Melittology (study of all bees), which is a branch of Entomology (study of insects).

What animal or plant do you have an interest in? Perhaps you could start with a simple google search....

Until tomorrow...

Photographs: Compliments of 7song

OCTOBER 20. 2011 YEAST AND MORE YEAST

"From caring comes courage." Lao Tzu

Yes I do get lots of courage form caring for people. I have to meditate and pray on caring and courage. Lately I feel defeated at times. For one when the patient doesn't hear what I am saying or trying to do, I get frustrated. I aim at educating and teaching lifestyle changes. I do not practice 'try this diet or that diet'. Also I must be careful because caring too much gets me in trouble. I get so involved-- which is why I was chosen for this G.O.D. given profession, that I forget to take care of myself. That has been happening too much lately.

I was told once by the Academy Award winning actress from Roman Holiday that, "GOD gave us two hands--one to help others, and the other to help yourself." I must always remember that! So should you!

Candida albicans is a specific yeast that exists in the human body. There are also many other species of Candida. It is found throughout the intestines from the mouth to the anus. Normally it causes no problems, unless there is a change or suppression of the immune system of the body. In these situations whether from other chronic infections, food allergies and sensitivities, immune status, or toxic metal burden on the body, the yeast can flourish and the result is a deep seated infection. These infections can be seen throughout the body. For example, fungus on the nails, on the tongue, and lodging in the mucous membranes.

Systemic Candida infection is a life threatening illness in cancer and other immunosuppressed patients. Indicators of candida overgrowth can be symptoms that you experience sometimes or even daily. These are fatigue, asthma, depression, muscles aches, muscle weakness, itching, diarrhea, gastritis, vaginal throbbing or burning, urinary tract problems, allergies and even irritability. The list goes on to memory problems, scalp issues, inability to concentrate, depression and the SUGAR CRAVINGS.

Do you have any of these symptoms? Of course you do. We all get them from time to time. Do not think you have yeast, BUT you could. A big problem is the repeated use or misuse of antibiotics. The birth control pill can provide a favorable environment for the growth of yeast. We do know today for a fact that overuse of antibiotics will predispose you to a yeast infection or overgrowth problem.

So what to do? First see a physician with some background in Candida or an integrative approach. A very restrictive candida (yeast free) diet is almost always prescribed. It is not an easy new lifestyle. Yes, sugar must be eliminated. Then there are the gluten breads- Barley, Rye, Oats and Wheat. Then the dairy is eliminated. By this time you believe you cannot do this new lifestyle program. You can--but it is difficult. Sometimes you will slip and cheat. I try to follow a yeast free diet but I am human and cheat at times. I suffer when I cheat.

Currently I am trying to the best to my ability. The body is dealing with the dead microbes. I am using a product by Longevity Nutritionals called Microbe Gone (http://www.longevitynutritionals.com/).
It is a tincture of herbs used to kill microbes. One of the ingredients is Paul d'Arco. There are many herbs in this product. I am experiencing one detox reaction of itching. This is called a Herxheimer Reaction. At night, I begin to itch especially on my upper torso. It drives me nuts. Some nights it affects my sleep. I know it is a detox reaction and will eventually subside. The liver, kidneys and of course my skin are working overtime to get rid of these dead organisms. Some of these die off (Herx) reactions can be severe fatigue, headache or flu like symptoms. It differs from individual to individual.

I know to drink plenty of water. It helps with the reaction. Drinking juice, soda or coffee will not help as it will fed the yeast that is still alive. Drink water and plenty of it.

Water, water and more water. Then there is a great anti oxidant--olive leaf extract.

As a kind act to me --please contant www.ithacahealth.org and donate for the Herbal Department so 7song and others can treat patients with another discipline - HERBS. Put herbal department at bottom of your check. Thank you.

This is FREE clinic - Ithaca Free Clinic. All medicines and services are free. They need your donation.

Thank you one and all. Read about it and contribute.

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 19, 2011 WHY DIET ALONE..DIET WITH DR FRATELLONE

"REMEMBER, it's who we are INSIDE that truly counts in the lives of others."

It is never about the outside. It is always what is inside that truly counts. Yes it is true that most of us want to look good on the outside , but the let's not forget the inside. I am not only talking about the inside of the body in regard to your bodily organs, but also your psychological issues... your anger, your resentments and 'the art of practicing forgiveness'. Material possessions are not the point. Refresh your life.

Remember: A heart is not judged by how much you love; BUT by how much you are loved by others. The Wizard (H Morgan) to the Tin Man (Jack Haley) 1939 Wizard of Oz

Research has already made it clear that dietary lifestyle changes are the most important therapies for prevention of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. There are guidelines instituted by the American Diabetic Association and the American Heart Association. These are the supposedly 'authoritative' guidelines.

In 17 years of clinical practice I have seen hundreds of patients. Some of those years were with diet guru, the late Robert Atkins MD. I am not in full agreement with strict Atkins lifestyle of High Protein, High Fat, Low Carbohydrate nor am I in favor of the new French guru's diet of High Protein, Low Fat, Low Carbohydrate. I believe there is no diet that fits all individuals. Diet should be individualized. It should be aimed at low carbohydrates as Dr. Atkins always stated. However, it should be individualized looking at food sensitivities and allergies, glucose and insulin levels, and appropriate foods in moderation.

Books have been written on every possible diet. The DASH Diet is the The Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension. The DASH investigators state that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat will lower Blood Pressure. The diet doesn't distinguish high glycemic and low glycemic fruits and vegetables. I absolutely feel cow's dairy is not good for everyone.

An ideal dietary lifestyle to help decrease the incidence of diabetes and obesity which leads to heart disease (cardiometabolic risk) will do the following:

1. It will help lower insulin secretion (a fat storing hormone)

2. It will reduce inflammation

3. It will promote weight loss and loss of inches in the waist

4. It will reduce fat deposits

5. It will improve the omega 3 to omega 6 ratio

6. It will taste great

7. It will be easy to start and flexible

8. It will not be necessarily expensive since you will be shopping on the periphery of the store where fruits, vegetables, and protein are located.

Along with these basic changes you might need to consider eliminating gluten and all dairy (including goat, sheep and cow). This might be more difficult. I start everything in Baby Steps. A simple program for complicated individuals is the best way.

Most diets are low carbohydrate as Atkins started in the 1970's. These other diets are the South Beach Diet, the DuKan diet and Sugar Busters. The other popular diet is the Mediterranean Diet popularized by Walter Willet's book, Eat, Drink and be Healthy.

More about diets tomorrow

Until tomorrow....

OCTOBER 18, 2011 CHANGE=FEAR= DISEASE

"The key to change ... is to let go of fear."

Change can be challenging. Change is fearful for most of us. Change could mean a new dwelling, a new relationship, new work, or letting go of an old relationship. It could mean positive changes in your overall health. Change is good. Some individuals are incapable of changing. Here is somthing to keep in mind: Only you can change. You cannot expect others in your life to change. If you have expectations of others changing, you most likely-- if not definitely will be disappointed.

The aim of any treatment for an individual is CHANGE. It is changing the body's ability to deal with pressure. The pressure is usually caused by the wrong dietary lifestyle and other stresses. I want to help the individual achieve a state of health and vitality so the body can deal with the symptoms instead of attacking the symptoms. Disagreement or conflict can manifest as arthritis symptoms. Dr. Sarno wrote a great book outlining back pain and what I call psychological disharmony.

For instance if you look at life with a tense, intensive and/or defensive attitude, you are feeding disease-- especially arthritis . You can reduce bone on bone pain by reducing friction in your life.

Improving the emotional/psychosocial aspects of your life is a tremendous help when you find yourself combating a disease. This is not saying that conventional drugs, herbs and supplements will not work for your arthritis. They all will work, but you will be much better if you change your attitude towards life. You also need to change your dietary lifestyle from acidic to alkaline.

Do you get a cup of coffee as soon as you wake up? If you do you must change that! You need to consume protein first and then if you wish, the cup of coffee (without sugar). Eat more fresh vegetables and fruit and fewer processed foods. Drinking a cup of water with fresh lemon squeezed into it will help reduce the acidity in your body. Citrus fruits, in spite of their citric acid appear to have an alkaline reaction in the body. Eat leafy green vegetables, too.

There are many herbs used for arthritis. Many herbalists use white willow bark, ginger, tumeric and boswellia. I use these too, but I have found other herbal formulas as well. I have started to use the following mixtures of herbal teas for arthritis. I find them to be effective for my patients as well as for myself.

I combine Celery seed, black cohosh, meadowsweet and yarrow together. I sometimes add white willow bark to reduce inflammation. Last night I did not sleep well due to lower back pain. As you have read, much of our healing happens during sleep. I had to get up and make a cup of passion flower tea with 5 drops of valerian to fall asleep.

Examine your psychosocial lifestyle (addictions, meditation, self esteem, anger and resentments).

Make necessary lifestyle changes--dietary, exercise and psychosocial--to support a healthier life.

GRATITUDE NOT ATTITUDE

Photograph: White willow tree

Until tomorrow...

OCTOBER 17, 2011 DIGESTIVE ENZYMES

"YOUR honest word is one of the most precious and powerful possessions."

"Honesty is always the best policy." I can still feel those words of my father penetrating my ears. He also said, "Bullshit walks, money talks." He was part of a unique breed of men. I do agree that honestly is the way to go. But I must say you must be honest with yourself first. Honest enough with yourself not to blame others for your faults. I see many patients who at one time or another have blamed their upbringing and parents for some of their traits. Let it go-- whether your parents are dead or alive. Parents do the best they are capable of doing. Own up to the fact that you are an adult now. We all make mistakes. Be honest. Admit your own faults. As a parent I have tried to the best of my ability to do the right thing. Perhaps I was not as attentive as I could have been, but I always did my best for my children. As children get older, they need to reflect on what was really the truth and what was not.

Be honest. It is a precious gift to be honest.

Various types of digestive aids have been used throughout history. As we get older we sometimes need these digestive enzymes to help with our absorption of nutrients. Digestive aids should be consumed just prior to or upon initiation of meals. The historical use of digestive aids go back to ancient times throughout most of the world, especially Europe and the Middle East. Some of the best known digestive aids are herbs known as bitters. There are many herbs that are bitters. Some of these include dandelion, wild lettuce, milk thistle, chicory, gentian and artichoke leaf (not the bulb which I use to decrease cholesterol).

Consuming digestive aids just prior to a meal helps with the production of salivary enzymes, hydrochloric acid, and bile as well as other enzymes in the mouth, pancreas and stomach. I utilize the pancreatic enzymes from either animal or plant sources. Some individuals prefer the bovine or porcine only. Little research has been done on the exact amount of each particular enzyme needed to assist digestion. I prefer to use plant derived protease enzymes. I use papain, which is derived from papaya, and bromelain derived from pineapple stems. These are proteases which break down proteins and have no ability at all to break down fats or carbohydrates.

Other digestive aids that help with the breakdown of lipids are bile products. Bile supplementation sometimes is needed in assisting a patient with digestion issues. There are also several plants called choleretics and cholagogues that are useful in stimulating the release of your body's own bile during digestion. These are artichoke leaf, dandelion root, barberry, peppermint and even milk thistle.

Find the right digestive enzyme for you.

Until tomorrow..