NOVEMBER 30, 2011 TRANS FAT

"It takes more than good memory to have good memories."

Memory is vital, but it is not enough. In order to have good memories you have to have love, compassion, trust, honesty and spirituality.

What are trans fats? You probably eat them every day and you do not realize it. Trans fats are used in most processed food such as commercial cakes, pies, cookies, crackers, snack food, pretzels and salad dressings.

The food label will not say trans fats, but but 'partially hydrogenated' oil. Be careful if you are consuming partially hydrogenated. It is the SAME as TRANS FAT. So what is a trans fat? Trans fatty acids are a type of fat molecule produced by a process called partial hydrogenation. This process rearranges the hydrogen atoms in liquid unsaturated fatty acids to produce an unnatural fat. Yes I said, an unnatural fat. Trans fats is the kind of fat used in frying to make cookies, crackers etc.

How do you avoid trans fats ? The only way is to stop processed foods. Easier said than done. First of all, the grocery stores shove the processed foods in our face by having displays and sales. Processed foods are far cheaper than natural foods like fruit, cheese, fish and meat. The economy of today makes it more difficult for most of us to buy organic or fresh. Use traditional fats like butter, Palm oil and coconut oil for frying and olive oil on salads. Also avoid the vinegar. Use olive oil and lemon juice. Butter does contain a small amount of natural trans fats that are not harmful. There is nothing wrong with butter when consumed moderately.

Dangers of trans fats:

1. Associated with increase risk of certain types of cancer

2. Interfere with insulin receptors (pre dispose to diabetes)

3. Increase the levels of a cardiac risk factor, Lipoprotein @

4. Interfere with sex hormones; problems with fertility

5. Correlated with obesity in women; contribute to weight gain

6. Interfere with immune function

7. Increased asthma risk

The morale of the story is: AVOID PROCESSED FOODS

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 29, 2011 ROLE OF FOOD IN ADHD

"WE will always get what WE need, when WE need it."

This is so true. Be careful what you pray for. I always seem to get what I need when I need it. Is it coincidence? No, it is not. It is prayer and meditation that bring to me what I need when I need it. I do not need a lot in life. I need a balanced lifestyle. This includes work, relationship, hobbies and meditation.

You would not believe how much prayer and meditation has changed my life. Do you pray and/or meditate? I do not take for granted anything in life. I am grateful for what I have. Do you have gratitude? Make a gratitude list tonight of what you are grateful for. Try not to place any materialistic items on that list!

The role of foods and/or additives in patients with ADHD has been controversial. There is some scientific evidence that supports the use of dietary elimination of certain foods, especially dairy and gluten. In my clinical experience I have seen major changes in behavior in patients with ADHD by removing gluten and cow's dairy from the diet. Elimination of the more suspicious items such as food colorings, artificial sweeteners, sugar and benzoate preservatives may help in 50% of children. There are double blind studies on artificial sweeteners and benzoate preservatives.

There is little evidence for the toxic effects of heavy metals (such as mercury, lead and aluminum), but in my clinical experience I have seen many ADHD patients (children and adults) have a heavy burden of toxic metals per blood analysis as well as provocative urine analysis (which reflects the tissue level)

Studies dating back as far as 12 years ago showed that children with ADHD have lower levels of B vitamins, Vitamin C and zinc. Those treated with these supplements had a decrease in mood disorders, levels of aggression and antisocial behavior.

Years ago I used a supplement called Bio-Strath which was derived from brewer's yeast grown on anti oxidant herbs. This was particularly high in all vitamins, minerals especially the B vitamins. At that time when I was using this product (more than 9 years ago) I had great results, but I was not comfortable with the brewer's yeast. Today I see many children and adults who have a yeast allergy (to bakers and brewer's yeast). I do not use this particular supplement as frequently as I once did.

I do believe in the elimination of food allergens. I do believe no artificial sweeteners should be used. Supplements should be gluten, dairy and yeast free.

I feel since absorption is an issue in patients with ADHD (children and adults) a powdered hypoallergenic should be used. I particularly favor companies like Metagenics and Orthomolecular for these products.

Dietary lifestyle changes are so important in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Some may even be reversible with dietary changes.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 28, 2011 HERBS FOR FIRE ISLAND

"Give thanks for the unknown blessings already on their way."

Always give thanks to blessings that are known, but special thanks for blessings that have not arrived yet. These are the special ones.

THINKING AHEAD:

At the mention of the word, 'herb' we almost always think of herbs that can be used in the kitchen either to garnish, decorate or flavor salads. I know that every garden looks great with Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). I tend to like bigger Rosemary plants so I suggest the variety called Miss Jessops Upright Rosemary. You can always tell which one the grocery store is selling by its height and leaves. Last year I grew Thyme around the Rosemary. I did that because I read that the thyme flowers will come out after the rosemary flowers are gone. I like the contrast in the garden.

The garden can be decorative. Of course this is all for next season, but this is the best time to think of next years garden. Start planning it now.

One of my friends does not like thyme which I cannot understand but appreciate his difference. He would rather grow Oregano instead of thyme. I thought he would say Sweet marjoram, Origanum majorana.

I will also have some vervain and hyssop. Mint will grow wild in the garden and if not careful can take over the garden. The best Saliva to grow in a garden which also can take over is Sage.

I know next year there will not be as much sun in my garden in our new dwelling. I have to get prepared for this. I am always asked what grows better in the shade? I never knew nor did I care as my garden had sun. So, I am now preparing for my plants in the shade. It does take some reading, planning and preparation, but it will be worth it.

There is no such thing as total shade in a backyard unless your backyard is in the forest. There are plants that grow splendidly without direct sunlight. I am more worried about my herbs. Few few culinary herbs will grow in the deep shade. The herbs I will be planting next season will be

1. Chives

2. Spearmint

3. Parsley

4. Basil

I want the garden to have a variety of scents. This is a very small house - The Little Red House.

I know we need flowers for the honeybees, but some floral herbs will flourish in the shade- The front of the house is under shade from the Pine trees.

1. English bluebells (Hyacinthoides nonscripta)

2. Lilly of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) - abundant around Pride House- the oldest house on Fire Island Cherry Grove ' survived the 1938 Hurricane

3. Lungwort (Pulmonartia officinalis)

4. Periwinkle (Vinca major)

5. Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

6. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)

The nice thing about reading and learning is that all herbs that grow in shade will grow in partial shade so I have another list of culinary and scented herbs that includes Meadowsweet, Lemon Balm and Juniper.

So unless there is a wet habitat that I do not know about I will not be growing Marshmellow, Lobelia and Creeping Jenny.

Growing on Fire Island is rewarding. You may not think it but most plants are tolerant to wide variety of soils and conditions. I will only grow those herbs that will appreciate what my new garden has to offer. I must get running water either in a pond or stream...

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 26, 2011 SORE THROATS - GARGLE, GARGLE, GARGLE

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, 'Thank you,' that would suffice." - Meister Eckhart

Do you say 'thank you' ? I know I do! I think it is two words that have been lost in the English language. If someone holds the door for me I say, "thank you." When I get off the tram on east 60th street, I say thank you to the tram operator. I say, "thank you," to my new patients for coming to see me.

I have given up on the expectations that people in general say thank you. If I didn't I would be a very angry and disappointed individual. It seems so logical to say thank you after a good deed is done - but that rarely happens. So what would make me think that without a good deed, anyone would bother to say thank you.

I thought it would be common courtesy. How foreign is that to the human race today?

For today, Say thank you to just one person and see how good it will make you feel.

When was the last time you had a sore throat? You certainly do not want one now as the winter is approaching. Sure there are preventative remedies, but what happens when you have a sore throat today?

Last week a 33 year old white male presented with a sore throat. There was a mild cough, no sputum production and no shortness of breath. He had his tonsils removed when he was 7 years old for recurrent infections. (I could relate to that--I had mine removed when I was four years old at LeRoy Hospital by Dr James Mendola.)

The patient felt achy, fatigued and generally 'not well'. On examination his throat was reddened, no exudate and positive mucous. He has a post nasal drip. Sure he must have allergies but he denies any. He has never had allergy testing. He eats dairy and wheat. I didn't prescribe an antibiotic. I wanted the old fashioned hot, salt water gargle. It is the best gargle for whatever ails you. You know that - your mother told you that when you were a kid! As soon as you feel scratchiness or irritation - start the gargle.

There are other astringents you can add to the gargle as a tincture (1/2 dropperful) or essential oil (1 -2 drops maximum). These could be witch hazel, cherry bark, geranium root and bayberry bark. There are culinary herbs that are also great for gargling. These are sage, thyme and rosemary.

Do not swallow the salt alone or with an herb. The only time I recommend swallowing the gargle is if it is a tea tincture only. The deeper you are able to gargle- the better. You must use a good heaping teaspoon of salt with warm/hot water.

Now if you need more throat care and the throat or tonsil areas need to be swabbed you can make a great combination of herbs. My mother loved Vick's vapor rub for my chest, and gentian violet for the canker sores, and salt water with honey for the sore throat.

Here is a great blend for swabbing:

1. Usnea lichen 1/4 oz

2. Osha root 1/4 oz.

3. Marshmellow 1/4 oz

or

4. Slippery Elm 1/4 oz

5. Ginger 1/4 oz

or

6. Cayenne Pepper 1/4 oz

Both ginger or cayenne are for the brave adults who love 'hot'

Use a large cotton swab and place mixture on area or better yet 1/2 dropperful every 3 hours for 2 days.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 25, 2011 COOKING AS A HOBBY

"Our spiritual path is like a search leading home."

Some of us are missing something but you can't pinpoint what it is. Have you ever thought that you are missing your spiritual path? This is not your given religion. This is not about attending mass in church, or service in a synagogue. It is about spirituality. It is about prayer and meditation. It is about prayer to whomever you want. You could pray to the universe or to Earth Mother. You could pray to loved ones who are no longer here. You could pray and meditate to a power greater than thy self. Or you could just sit and pray for no reason other than you want to.

I have been giving this topic a lot of thought. Is cooking considered a hobby? When I discuss hobbies to boost self-esteem, cooking always comes up. I never thought it as a hobby, but lately personal experience has changed my thought process.

I think it is culinary therapy for the person doing the cooking. Cooking for some people is relaxing. There is a final product. When you decide to do a hobby you first want to see if you can do it. Some hobbies I do would make others wrists hurt. Those like me who know nothing about the fine art of cooking may not consider the final dish as magnificent as a stitched pillow. I have witnessed first hand from Rick, my chef dejour e magnifice something that never crossed my mind. He has approached cooking as a hobby and not a chore. He has taken numerous classes at the French Culinary Institute as well as classes throughout the city. For him it is not a high pressure job, but a passion and hobby. Ideally he looks at cooking at something he wants to do, not has to do.

He approaches his floral designs in the same creative way. . For some it is a way to relive stress after work and also good for the stomach. As Rick buys me books on almost anything, I am sure to get it right when I buy cooking books or floral design books. Two nights ago, the male version of Julia Child came to life.

A difficult dish with 2 hours cooking time according to the book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Berholle and Simone Beck -1961 is none other than BEEF BOURGUIGNON. If you want to be American call it Beef Burgundy. It was magnificent. It melted in your mouth. Not only made with his hands but while reading the original recipe from the original Julia Child book. I was mesmerized. For those who do not know about Beef Bourguignon - it is a stew prepared with beef braised in red wine, and beef broth flavored with garlic (an herb), onion (another herb in same genus) and pearl onions and mushrooms added at the end of the cooking. To call what I tasted a stew is unfair - it is a standard of the French cuisine that everyone needs to taste once in their lifetime.

I have witnessed that it is not only the actual cooking that makes this a great hobby. It is the shopping, buying, and the preparation. It is also involves the specific table settings. It is a meticulous, and very creative hobby.

My life is beyond my wildest dreams and I am a very grateful man.

Of note: You have different areas to explore- french cuisine, baking, bread etc

The nice thing for me is I get to taste it all- Rick also has found a great friend/cooking companion- Carol

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 24, 2011 THE GENUS SALVIA

"Give thanks to all, especially the plants."

A day of thanks should be given to your higher power for the magnificent creation of nature in this world. May you give thanks to the simple things in life. For today and always, give thanks to the plants.

Do not forget to thank yourself.

On my bedside table there are about 10 books . I love to read. Unfortunately I read 3-4 different books a night. I have so much to learn yet. I am reading Stop Alzherimer's Now, by Bruce Fife, ND. I am fascinated by this book. It does mention many other therapies for central nervous system disorders, especially Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Well before we had medications, we used a variety of herbs for symptoms of these CNS disorders.

The genus that comes to my mind from a 2007 lecture is the genus Salvia. I wrote about the hallucogenic Salvia divinorum recently. Perhaps writing about that herb sparked me to recall the Salvia lecture I heard by David Hoffman B.Sc. Salvia is the largest genus in the Lamiaceae Family (Mint family) with 700 species.

The word salvia comes from Latin meaning "to be saved". Salvia species are used for a vast range of diseases. Sauer's Herbal Cures lists so many.

Saliva species can be divided into the following groups.

1. Sedative Properties

2. Anxiolytic Properties

3. Anticonvulsant properties

4. Memory Enhancing Properties

5. Anti oxidant Properties

I am sure there have been books written about this genus, but I have not researched that yet. Danshen (S. miltiorrhiza) has been studied for its free radical scavenging effects. For you, this means it is a great herb with great anti oxidant potential for a variety of illnesses.

Memory is so important to me. I have an excellent memory. I sometimes remember too much from my past, but at least I do not dwell on the past events. There are culinary herbs discussed for years in folk herbalism with memory enhancing properties. I am sure some of you use them today. One of them is sage. The others are lemon balm, thyme and rosemary.

A salvia species, S. lavandulaefolia has been studied for memory enhancement. The essential oil extract of this salvia and S. officinalis have both shown to have anti cholinesterase inhibition. This is relevant to patients with Alzheimer's Disease. These both also have antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory properties.

If you read any Alzheimer's Disease literature, these properties are important in the disease treatment and progression. Although studies have been done, more are needed. I am most interested if taking this herb daily will prevent development of disease.

I am also interested to see if patients with apo E allele (4/4) which have a higher disposition to Alzheimer's by 72% would benefit from the Salvia species.

I truly feel that some of the compounds in the species, S. lavandulaefolia and other salvia species should be investigated.

Remember this- we have all the answers here on Mother Earth. These plants are here for a reason. We might not know the reasons right now, but we should never overlook this possibility. As temperatures, climate , weather and waters are changing, so will these plants one day. Some might not be here in 50 years.

Yet in James A Duke's book, Medicinal Plants of the Bible, not one Salvia species is mentioned. This puzzles me.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 23, 2011 BETA VULGARIS - NOT A SKIN CONDITION

"Know that WE have the power to heal ourselves."

For this MD RH, this couldn't be said better. We all have the power within us to 'heal thyself'. Sometimes healing needs the assistance of a health career practitioner, but it always needs you to participate in your own healing. The power of your own healing can be achieved through positive mantras, meditation and prayer, increasing your own self esteem ( through doing hobbies) and 'letting go' of anger and resentment. Each of these healing have been researched and studied to heal thyself. I do each of these almost on a daily basis. The one that I do the least is probably a positive mantra. The one that I have seen cause disease if not done properly is ' the letting go of anger and resentment. It is a tie when he comes to meditation/prayer and self esteemable hobbies. I do each of these on a daily basis. I get up extra early to meditate. On some special 'days' when dates are important to me , I meditate in any house of worship, so I can also light a candle for their remembrance.

May for today you heal thyself in any way you can.

There is a cardiovascular friendly root vegetable. It is a beet. It has been shown that the antioxidants in beets offer protection against coronary artery disease. Did you know that there are more than red beets? There are orange-yellow, white and green beets, too. Different pigments are present in the different color beets. The red color in the red beet is due to its betalin pigments. There are the reasons to eat beets...

1. Low in calories, and low in fat

2. Contains high amounts of glycine betaine. Betaine lowers a cardiac risk factor, called homocysteine. Homocysteine is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic heart disease, separate from the lipid panel risk factors.

3. Excellent source of Vitamin C

4. Excellent source of folic acid

5. Excellent source of carotenoids, flavinoid and Vitamin A

6. Rich in niacin and other B vitamins

7. High levels of potassium. As a cardiologist, this is great for potassium replacement instead of a high carbohydrate count of the banana (which most people use to replete potassium when on a water pill)

Who shouldn't eat lots of beets ?

No one - everyone should have some beets. I love beets. In a restaurant I will always order a tri color beet and goat cheese salad (see recipe below)

Those individuals with a history of kidney stones should not eat a lot of beets. Beets are high in oxalic acid, which can contribute to oxalate stones. Be sure to know what type of kidney stones you have had in the past.

Passing red or pink urine after eating beets is common. Do not get alarmed. This is called beeturia. It is completely harmless. 10-15% or more of the general population are genetically unable to break down the red pigment, betacynanin and therefore have red colored urine.

Recipe: A simple one for anyone

Roasted Beet Salad with Goat or Sheep Cheese

- 2-3 cups fresh arugula

-4 medium roasted beets (remove greens) - red, green or orange

-1/2 cup fresh red onion, finely chopped

-1/2 cup goat cheese (about 3 - 4 ounces) crumbled

- 1 1/2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

- salt/pepper

Mix lemon juice and olive oil in small bowl. Combine all remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Pour lemon/olive oil dressing over salad and toss. Add pepper and salt as needed (light on the salt)

You may also add sunflower seeds, almonds and/or pine nuts (no peanuts of course).

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 22, 2011 BERBERIS AQUIFOLIUM

"Happiness is a byproduct of living the right kind of life."

Thanks Karen

What is the right kind of life? Is it a life of giving? Happiness is the 'first drop of morning dew' on a spring day.' This is a type of fleeting happiness. Happiness comes from within. It is not achieved form the outside. I once thought that happiness was having many material objects. I know that is not case. I always thought that 'giving' or buying' for friends would achieve me happiness. I was so wrong! It had a lot to do with my self esteem at that point in my life and my expectations of others. Today I have lots of self love and little to no expectations. I sway into the 'old me' from time to time, but I am human and not perfect. It has been a slow process of progress--NOT PERFECTION.

During my year at the Northeast School of Botanical Medicine I was introduced to an herb that has changed my life in regard to many infections including skin infections. It is Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium). It is from the Berberidaceae family. It has a bitter flavor (definitely not the best tasting, nor the best smelling) It is considered a blood purifier and liver detoxifier.

During the last weeks of school, our class had made a salve with other herbs, but it also contained Oregon Grape. I still have this salve today, and have used it for a variety of conditions.

I even prescribed it to a patient with an open skin wound after having a cardiac transplant. The wound was resistant to most if not all antibiotics. All the 'big machine' antibiotics were tried with no avail. I actually thought this brave, caring, compassionate man would succumb not to transplant rejection, but to infection. I asked the wife to apply this salve and have the patient drink a tincture containing Oregon grape. Last month I saw this patient in my office. Skin wounds and flap operations are all healed. Is it a miracle?

No it is Mother Earth that has provided all with these plants! In clinical studies berberine has shown activity against fungal species, other yeast, parasites and bacterial/viral infections.

In my field of Cardiology I have been researching the studies using berberine for lowering the lipid panel (cholesterol, LDL and even the apo A and apo B levels).

Some of my patients take berberine to improve mental function and depression. Clinically I have not used berberine for mental disorders.

Oregon Grape is NOT the only plant containing this yellow alkaloid with so many benefits. Berberine is found in Goldenseal, Barberry, Tree turmeric and even the Californian Poppy. Because of its yellow color, in earlier times Berberine was used as a wool and leather dye.

For those with slow energy and a sluggish liver I would try a decoction with Oregon grape:

1. 2 ounces of Oregon grape ( http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/ and /or http://www.frontierherbs.com/ or if in NYC http://www.flowerpower.com/ )

2. 1 quart of distilled water

Directions: Boil slowly for 20 minutes , cool and strain. Leave in a cool place. Take one half a cup before meals (at least 45 minutes to an hour before) This will restore a sluggish liver and help restore your digestion.

I will warn you that the taste for me is not that great. I have great success in using this herb with patients who have cancer, blood infections, hepatitis and HIV.

I use the salve for patients with acne, psoriasis and eczema.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 21, 2011 ESSENTIAL OILS AND SPIROCHETES

"An attitude of love can bless all situations and all people."

We all need to be grateful for what we have in life. Life is so, so short. I was wondering how does a woman with a history of Hodgkins Disease, Valve Replacement, Breast Cancer and Food sensitivities get through it all. There has to be gratitude and NOT attitude. The attitude of love can bless all situations and make people healthier-- both spiritually and physically. I see it on a daily basis.

In the last weeks I have been using my essential oils from Snow Lotus more with a great passion. In St Petersberg, Peter Holmes focused on using essential oils for infections which I have discussed .

The Winter 2010 Issue 88 Herbalgram by the American Botanical Council had a feature titled, "Using Essential Oils Against Drug-Resistant Bacteria: New Treatment Possibilities for a Global Health Priority." I found this Lindsay Stafford article most interesting since we have no where to run except to the plants. This is the same way we must turn to mushrooms to Save the Earth (Mycelium Running - Paul Stamets). There are more and more drug resistant bacteria! We need other means to help infections--I would encourage you to read this article.

There are important single oils that are useful in treating various aspects of infections. My goal until the summer of 2012 is to find an oil I can use for Lyme Disease on Fire Island. I am torn between using Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrus), Thyme (Thymol), and Peppermint (Methia x piperita). All three have been used for various viruses especially viral hepatitis, viral neuritis, shingles and HSV1. All have been used for fungus.

There is no mention in the literature of an essential oil being used for Lyme and its other related spirochete infections. I did find some basic essential oils for Lymes in Jeanne Rose's Herb and Essential Oils for Lymes, but it was not as in depth as I hoped it would be.

So if you iget bit by a tick. You get the tick off - use lavender and lemon eucalyptus to help sterilize the wound. I am looking for a combination of essential oils to be diluted in water to keep the ticks away.

Those who do not venture to Fire Island have no idea of the Lyme epidemic that exists. I do not think even Brookhaven Township realizes the situation. I know it is a guarantee that those men roaming through the Judy Garland Memorial Park or the 'Meat Rack ' are bound (no pun intended) to get one or two tick bites. You do not have to be roaming in the woods to get a bite, you can be in your garden in front of your house.

My mind is swirling with ideas for essential oils and marketing for this oil. I have the perfect combination in mind myrrh, peppermint, cloves and the 'secret essential oil '. I will have to get a lab to start testing it.

I would also suggest using the thyme to spray around so you do not get spiders crawling out all over.

Miss you --Pat Fratellone, Sr 7/8/21-11/21/05

Until l tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 19, 2011 SALVIA DIVINORUM

"Accept the good things that come your way and live with hope for the possibilities.

I deliberately reversed the phrases before and after the word 'and'. It originally read, "Live with hope for the possibilities and accept the good things that come your way." In either case, always have hope. Never stop hoping or dreaming. Never stop until the miracle happens, because it will happen. Do you believe?

I never reject anything that comes my way. There must be a reason. Even if I do not understand the reason at that moment, it will be revealed to me at a later time.

Vision producing plants is not what you think. These are NOT plants used to help eyesight or vision. These are plants that are hallucinogenic. For those who lived through the late 60's and 70's you know the kind of hallucigenics I am referring to. Well plants also can be hallucogenic. I am fascinated with a book called Plant Intoxicants. I have read it cover to cover. These hallucinogenic plants can be exciting and pleasurable but also terrifying. These types of plants are used in various cultures for sacred rituals throughout the world. Many of these plants are used by shamans who truly understand the effects of these plants.

I approach all plants with respect. I am also a person who appreciates trees for their dignity and strength. I approach 'vision producing plants' with the utmost respect. I believe since working with 7song I have entered into a relationship with plants unlike any other aspect of my career. It is the same relationship I have developed with honeybees. Both of these aspects of my life have broadened my spiritual self.

Some of the names for the hallucinogenic plants are fabulous--Holy Flower of the North Star, Tree of the Evil Eagle, Diviner's Sage, Turbina and Psilocybe (the sacred mushroom)

One herb that has become popular in the United States has been the Diviner's Sage (Salvia divinorum ). You would think that this would be burned as white sage before a ceremonial ritual. The leaves are used for divinity rites (thus its name). Some believe this plant is an incarnation of the Virgin Mary, thus it is also known as 'Herb of the Virgin'. This herb has been used by Mazatec shamans and it facilitates visionary states of consciousness during spiritual healing sessions. It is native to Mazateca of Oaxaca, Mexico. This herb remains legal in most states, although in the last three years states like Texas are trying to regulate its use or ban it. Other states have started calling for its prohibition.

I find it interesting that although discovered and written about in 1939, it was not until the 1990's that any articles appeared on its psychoactive component. I do not understand the other common name of the plant, 'Herb of the Sheppard less'. From my catholic upbringing I have never known the Virgin Mary as sheppard less so there must be another reason. The Mazatec shamans crushed the leaves and drank the extract leaf juice. I am sure you could make a tea concoction. Chewing and swallowing the leaves is another mode of ingestion. It has been written that the effect comes on more slowly and can last 10 - 30 minutes. As with most herbs, smoking is also an option. This would achieve the main hallucinogenic effects rather quickly. The active ingredient, salvinorin A is generally considered inactive when orally ingested as it is deactivated by the GI tract. A tincture could be made and taken with tea. Since tinctures are made with alcohol each tincture will vary based on who prepares the tincture.

I wouldn't party with this herb, but if you wish to gain an insightful spiritual experience you might have found your herb

Whether you try it or not...be careful

I didn't find it in Jame's Dukes, Handbook of Medicinal Plants from the Bible.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 18, 2011 BOARD GAMES

"RESPOND INTELLIGENTLY EVEN TO UNINTELLIGENT TREATMENT."

If you are not treated well, do not respond with anger or emotion. Respond with intelligence and learn to let go and walk away. It is not the easiest thing to do, but in the long run it will pay off. Pray for those who treat you unintelligently.

I am a child of the 1960's! I do not know if I am considered a Baby Boomer or not. I do know as a child then, we did not have the games of today since most of the games are now on computers or phones. We played board games. My brother and I always played board games with our parents or with our cousins. Some of the games I played were Risk, Monopoly, L.I.F.E., Trouble and Candy Land.

In the 1980's a board game which determined the player's ability to answer general knowledge and popular questions was released. It was released in 1982, and gained major popularity in 1984. The game is Trivial Pursuit. The game was actually released in 1979 in Canada with initial concept by Chris Haney. By 2004, nearly 88 million games were sold in 26 countries and in 17 languages.

The technology of today has changed interaction of family members. Board games are fun and exciting. It allows for interaction of family members on a special level. If you ever played Trivial Pursuit I always sought the Pink Pie ( Entertainment ) and Green Pie ( Science Nature) first.

As a herbalist ( RH) I want a game that teaches edible and medicinal plants. At the AHG (American Herbal Guild) symposium in St. Petersberg, I bid at the silent auction on Wildcraft. Wildcraft is a Herbal Adventure Game for the whole family. The game teaches you 25 important edible and medicinal plants and their uses in most first aid situations. I love the game. It is a beautifully illustrated, nature based cooperative game for the whole family. It is created in the tradition of the old classic board games.

Th game is also green friendly - box/board made with 100% recycled paper, printed with vegetable oil based ink and uses no varnish.

This is a great game. It will also make a great Christmas gift

www.learningherbs.com/wildcraft.html

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 17, 2011 HERBS FOR PARKINSON'S DISEASE

"Choice, not circumstances, determines your success." - unknown

We all have a choice in life. Here is a fictional example: I have a choice to stay at a gathering where there are drugs, alcohol and marijuana. I have the choice to stay as long as I want. I am not obligated to stay. I am an adult. For me , it doesn't matter what the circumstance were to be invited to a gathering. I have a choice. This is my freedom and my right. Another fictional example would be attending a benefit concert for a cause. If I feel that some of the other guests have caused disharmony, deliberately hurt people and treat people poorly, why would I attend this benefit even if it is for a great cause. I can give my time, money and participation to this cause in another way. I have choices in life. I have a choice to be the man that I am or hide and secretly live a life that would be unfair to not only me but to others. As Jerry Herman wrote and Shirley Bassey sang, "I Am What I Am"

I love choices. I know that my choices in the last seventeen years have determined my success in life.

The very first botanical used for Parkinson's Disease (PD) symptoms were the anti cholinergics . These agents are effective for the muscle stiffness. A balance needs to happen between the dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons.

The herbs that exert these effects in a variety of ways are :

1. Atropina belladonna - Deadly Nightshade

2. Datura meteloides -Thorne apple or Jimsen weed

3. Mucuna pruriens - Velvet Bean

4. Bacopa monnieri -Water Hyssop

5. Fave fresche - Fava Beans

6. Vitex agnus castus -Chaste tree or Monk's Pepper

7. Cannabis indicus - Marjuana

Both Deadly Nightshade and Thorn apple have alkaloids. These alkaloids are competitive antagonists of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. By binding to the same receptor as acetylcholine they keep this neurotransmitter from doing its job. Both Deadly Nightshade (Atropine) and Thorn Aorn Apple fascinate me due to the fact that both are considered 'sacred'. Atropina was once considered the 'witches herb'

How many of us consider herbs for treatment of disease? Do you care that an herb can alleviate some of the symptoms? It is not a hot topic, but if you knew someone who had PD you would not want them to take all the toxic medications. Although there is a role for conventional medications I know that Mother Earth had plans for these plants-good plans with less side effects. I am even confident that some yet to be discovered plants can help a variety of diseases.

From my reading I know the herb Mucuna pruriens has the most promising possible benefit and exceeded the expectations because of its content of l-dopa (a conventional medicine already used for PD).

Both Bacopa and Fava beans have far less l-dopa than Mucuna. Here is the problem- we do not know enough about this whole plant The studies I have read state that 1/2 to 1 gram given four times a day can be effective in relieving symptoms with no known side effects. This plant is also used in India to remove parasites and to help emotional disorders. In review of the other herbs listed above, none of the others had similar effects.

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 16, 2011 PARKINSON'S DISEASE

"HOW OTHERS TREAT ME IS THEIR PATH; HOW I REACT IS MINE." ----- ---WAYNE DYER

I used to feel so horrible when I was treated in a hurtful way. Whether it was the way another classmate in middle school forced me to do his homework, or a gesture from a classmate in high school. I do believe I had to go through that to be the man I am today. When it comes to adults, I am always 'Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered' over how one adult can treat another adult badly. Some people are so self absorbed in their own world, they don't see what they are doing.

I currently live in a community on an island off the island of Manhattan. On Blackwell Island (its original name) there are men, women and children of all ages, races, and religions. The community is quite successful in bringing everyone together.

In the summer I live on another island where the community is so divided. Men, women and children are also from different ages, races and religion. I have visited and lived in this community on and off since I was eighteen. I have different perspectives as a man in this community as I age. I will not grow old and bitter. How others treat me and my true friends is really their path and their consciousness. How I react is mine. I do sometimes get caught in the drama, but I know one thing. I will pray for those unfortunates who do understand what life is really about. Life is short. I love my G.O.D. given profession but from my view when you see men, women and children of all ages, races and religions die with and sometimes without family/friends- I have learned to treat people special. I do not have 'stinking thinking'

Yesterday I saw a man with Parkinson's disease (PD). I understand the dopamine pathway which has its cell bodies in a small nucleus in the brain stem called the substantia nigra. The pathway degenerates in PD, disrupting motor activity and causing the characteristic rigidity, tremors, and decreased movements. I was introduced to a PD patient at a young age. My father's cousin has PD. It was difficult to understand as a child why he shook so much when he picked up a coffee cup. There are many causes or assumptions about the causes of PD beside the nigrostriatal pathway disruption. It has been postulated that PD could be caused by heavy metal toxicity, free radical damage, drug and alcohol overuse, pesticides and even chronic infections.

For me, it is important and critical that I have gained an understanding how conventional or modern medicine approaches PD. This is important because as doctors we can see patients in various stages of this disease. Dopamine agonists stimulate dopamine receptors which delay the motor complications. These starting medicines are L-dopa and carbi dopa. All medicines can have side effects. Today, both of these medicines are combined in a drug called sinemet. Other medications like selegiline, amantadine and COMT inhibitors are used. I have found that no single intervention works well for every patient. You must individualize the individual approach to a patient not only with PD but in any disease. This must include attention to dietary lifestyle.

I know that an individualized approach to a patient yields the best long term results.

Do you think I only rely on medications in PD? The answer is an astounding NO!

I use other treatments such as plants and vita nutrients. Some of these are plants as Datura and Belladonna as well as nutraceuticals as Piracetam and GABA.

Herbs ... Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 15, 2010 NEO 40 DAILY

"OUR GIFT TO LIFE IS OURSELVES. LIFE'S GIFT TO US IS THE OPPORTUNITY TO REALIZE OUR VALUE."

It has taken a long time with lots of self-work for me to realize my value. I always knew deep down, but I got off track for a period of time some years ago. Being back on track involves more than I initially thought. It involves self-work. We all need to do some self-work. This might include a more organized schedule, a new hobby, meditation, psychological therapy, group therapy, a 12 step program, massage, et al.

Realize your own value. Be proud of your accomplishments. Inhance your own self esteem.

Nitric Oxide is a vaso dilator. It has been studied extensively for various disease of the body. L arginine (an amino acid) increases nitric oxide production, thus increasing blood flow. It can be used to decrease blood pressure. It has been used to support erectile dysfunction. Years ago, a book called The Arginine Solution was written. It is worthwhile to read this book.

Nitric oxide is involved in cognitive function. We do know that overall cognitive health is related to low levels of oxidative stress and healthy vascular function. Studies have shown that there is a decrease in serum nitric oxide levels in patients with suboptimal cognitive function as compared with controls. In the same group there were low levels of good cholesterol ( HDL) This study now suggests that nitric oxide might be involved in cognitive function through the HDL. Interesting!

In addition to decreasing blood pressure, nitric oxide also plays an important role in well-being and mood. Even though nitric oxide has a very short half life (which means it does last long in the body) it can modulate or stimulate various neurotransmitters that are involved in mood. These are serotonin, epinephrine and dopamine.

OTHER BENEFITS OF NITRIC OXIDE:

1. broncho dilation

2. blood cell regulation

3. learning/ memory

4. pain sensation

5. central blood pressure control

6. human immune response

Has your doctor tested your nitric oxide levels? Everyone over 40 years old should have a nitric oxide test by blood. It is a simple test down in the office.

Arginine does work to increase nitric oxide levels, but the amount needed is greater than 9 grams. Instead I use Neo40 daily. Neo40 helps restore the nitric oxide level naturally. I do pre and post blood sample testing. The blend of nitric oxide is 420mg with beet root powder, and hawthorn berry extract. There is also Vitamin C and B12 in the formula.

I would suggest reading the Nitric Oxide (NO) Solution.

Obtain your strips and Neo40 from LONGEVITY NUTRITIONALS. ( http://www.longevitynutritionals.com/ )

Photographs: Rick Byrd - 1 st : HorseWhisper, Boise, Idaho

2nd: Another fabulous Rick arrangement

Until tomorrow...

NOVEMBER 14, 2011 THE ROSE

"The holiest of all holidays are those kept by ourselves in silence and apart; the secret anniversaries of the heart." - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - from Lavender Light

The best days are the ones we keep to ourselves. These days might be remembrances of the past. In November we all think of Thanksgiving. For me it is the month my father passed away. Some of spend it with family, while others spend it with friends - which are their family. Holidays can be be happy for some, and for others create anxiety and fear. Since I have no biological parents, I could say I am an orphan, but I am not. I have wonderful surrogate parents, children and friends. For me, November is a time of spiritual renewal and a celebration of life- especially my life with my dad.

When you think of love --what flower do you think of?

I think of the Rose - the Wild Rose (Rosa spp). Roses are invasive and colonize everywhere. But how could you be mad at a Rose-- with it's fragrance. The Rose plant is special in a way to every one of us. Red rose for love, and yellow roses for friendship.

The multiflora rose was introduced to the United States in 1866 from Japan. This rose continues to spread. It spreads by agricultural practices and the birds. I do see wild roses in gardens in Fire Island as well as throughout the city.

Do you think the Rose has a place in medicine? I would have never thought of Roses as medicine, but its true. Most of us are familiar with Rose hips. Rose hips contain plenty of Vitamin C (1000-2000mg/100g) and is used as an antioxidant. The rose hips are traditionally used for urinary tract complaints.

There are published studies on the species, Rosa laevigatae as an antibiotic against certain strains of bacteria.

History tells us that Rose water has been used for centuries. There were bowls and pitchers just for Rose water in the 1700 and 1800's in Europe. Rose water is great for chapped hands. It is great for skin inflammation. It also can be mixed with honey to be used as a swish, gargle and swallow for sore throats.

The cosmetic industry has popularized rose hip seed oil in many skin care products. At an herbal conference three years ago, I heard herbalist Rosita Arvigo discuss using rose water to stop heavy vaginal bleeding. One of her great books, Sastun discusses her apprenticeship with a Maya Healer . It is an excellent read for all!

Don't you love to get Roses? I get more than roses. Since Rick has completed the School of Floral Design I not only get fresh flowers in my office every week, but also at home. I am a very grateful man . The first photograph is a floral design by Rick.

Until tomorrow...