APRIL 1, 2011 A SLEEK, SLIPPERY HOBBY

" Whenever possible , let's be good to others, but be GOOD to ourselves too." You have two hands. Remember one hand is to help others, but never forget that the other hand is to help yourself. In 1993 I was told that by Audrey Hepburn who was visiting Miss Jessica Cronin (Tandy) in the hospital. Miss Tandy introduced me to her. It was one of the few times in my life that I was motionless and speechless.

I have come to believe that one must always help himself/herself first, to better help other people. It does not cost anything financially to be good to other people. Even if a person is not good to you, it is better to be good to them. This is karma. Pray for those individuals who are not good to you. You might ask, why should I? The answer is because it is the right thing to do. BE GOOD TO YOURSELF EVERY DAY IN ANY WAY YOU CAN.

I want today's hobby to involve herbs, so I could only think of Olive Oil Infusions. In ancient times, olive oil was called Liquid Gold for a number of reasons. The best reason is that olive oil is one of the healthiest oils to consume. It also tastes better than most oils. Now I want you to make it taste even better. I want you to create an intoxicating and enticing concoction that will add even more flavor to anything you cook. It is an easy hobby, satisfying and does not cost a lot of money.

This is what you will need:

1. Extra virgin olive oil

2. A bottle with cork or airtight lid

3. Funnel

4. Fresh herbs or spices

5. Mortar and pestle

I prefer to infuse my olive oils with herbs, but I have seen others infuse it with fruit, peppers and spices. The process is remarkably easy. First make sure you have all the ingredients. Obtain the herb you wish to infuse. I get all my herbs from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/ If you do not like ordering from a computer or you do not have a computer, but live in New York City and want an herb, I have a suggestion. Visit FlowerPower on east 9th Street and 1st Avenue. This store has been there for many years and never had a bad batch of any herb. I was there last weekend purchasing some Bladderwrack, Marshmellow, Meadowsweet and Catnip. If you want to infuse fresh garlic, then chop the garlic. If you want to infuse an herb, grind very fine. I use the white marble mortar and pestle I purchased from Mountain Rose Herbs. Add the herb to the oil, and let the mixture sit for a couple of weeks. Then it is ready for salads, fish, meats, and for the bread dipping individuals. How delighted would you be when you see your herb infused oil on the shelf in your local gourmet market someday?

I want to tell you a secret. This summer I know you will make me proud and start an herbal garden. Fresh is better than dried herbs for your olive oil concoction. If you are collecting fresh herbs harvest the aerial parts after their flower buds have formed but before they are in full bloom. You want the fresh herb since it does lose lose flavor as it dries. You can freeze your herbs instead of drying. I especially like the freezing technique for parsley and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis )

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 31, 2011 STOP KILLING HONEY BEES WITH PESTICIDES

"The people who are close to us bring untold meaning and value to our lives."

There are those who are close to me who bring me serenity, peace, joy and happiness. Of course these individuals are my partner, Rick; his parents, Nancy and Fred; his brother, Michael and my children, Alyssa and Gregory. Next to them are some close friends and siblings. I am closer to some friends than family members because I see my friends and interact with them on a regular basis. I feel there is a reason why I have this G.O.D. chosen profession. I am on my path-- spiritually, emotionally and psychologically. This is where I am supposed to be at this moment. It might change at any time, and I would be willing and open to change.

My patients also bring untold meaning to my life. Some of them have been under my care for 15 years. It has been a rewarding experience.

Who are the individuals that bring an untold meaning and value to your life? Have you ever thought of family and friends in this way? I find it refreshing, serene and peaceful.

We as humans are so preoccupied with either work, family, ourselves, or all three. We are so worried about today or entrapped by yesterday that we rarely prepare for the future. If we do prepare for the future it is usually for our own expectations.

We must realize that our tomorrows depend directly on plants and bees--and an environment that can support them as well as us. In New York City more than 70 years ago there was the World Of Tomorrow at Corona Park (now Flushing Meadows Park ) at the New York Worlds Fair 1939. It was a magical time.

Since 2006, U.S. honey bee populations have been in precipitous decline, with some estimates suggesting losses as high as 30% per year. While that's terrible, the problem is far greater than just the loss of a species. Without bees, our food supply is in serious danger. Pollination by honey bees is key in cultivating the crops that produce a full one-third of our food. A recently leaked memo suggests the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has ignored the science linking the pesticide clothianidin to the bee die-off. Sign the petition to E.P.A. Administrator Lisa Jackson today demanding an immediate ban and full scientific review of this pesticide: http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/bees/?r_by=-2756575-PEmKLNx&rc=paste1

If we want to see the world of tomorrow, then save our bees.

Stop using pesticides killing our future.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 30, 2011 THE WAR ON CANCER

"Practice means not continuing to strengthen the habitual patterns that keep us trapped."

We all need to practice at our life especially our lifestyle changes so we DO NOT continue our bad habits. Our bad habits aka unhealthy lifestyles keep us trapped. If you are continually making the same mistakes over and over again, then something needs to be done. First of all you must realize that mistakes are being made. Sometimes you just do not know. You may benefit from another's perception of your situation.

The saying is that practice makes perfect. Remember as I have stated before there is no perfection, only progress. Any practice at a good lifestyle will lead to a better lifestyle. I practice my knitting to get better at my knits and purls. I do knitting because I enjoy the meditative process and sitting quietly. You might exercise to get better. Give it a try for a few days. Practice exercise so you do not repeat the bad habit of not exercising...

Beyond your wildest dreams is a phrase I heard in the 12 step rooms. It is true that life changes beyond your wildest dreams if you work a program. As much as things have changed and dreams have happened, these dreams or promises can also be taken away. In sobriety some of the promises did happen for me and then quickly disappeared. I always got 'back on the horse' and started again. I have dreamed to one day work with plants and herbs to heal individuals. I want to one day work in conjunction with Mother Nature. In the last few years I have studied, research and educated myself and patients about healing with plants. I have always admired those who have this innate gift of healing. I have had help along the way. I have some of the best mentors in the field. I also have one driving force who believes in me. He is beyond reproach and almost beyond comprehension. He inspires me to be best I can be. He has faith, trust, love and belief in me for who I am. His name is Rick.

With the advice of teachers I applied to obtain my degree in Herbology as a registered herbalist (RH) with the American Herbal Guild (AHG). Yesterday, the AHG conferred the title of RH to Patrick Fratellone MD. I was overwhelmed as I told Rick when I received the email. With tears in my eyes, I hugged him tight. I am grateful to G.O.D. for allowing me to continue in my G.O.D. chosen profession. I trust I will be led to continue to help individuals with the use of plants. Never give up a dream. Without expectations you sometimes get surprised.

In the last few months I have seen many patients with a diagnosis of cancer. 60% of those cancers were diagnosed in our office. We are still fighting the war on cancer. When someone hears that they have the "C' word, many thoughts go though their mind. It is still whispered as written in Neil Simon's play " Lost in Yonkers". This is certainly understandable. Many people seek other treatments for their cancer. These other treatments vary from herbs, intravenous therapies, meditation, yoga, energy medicine and even other forms of chemotherapy given in other countries. Many of the patients who go to foreign clinics, especially in Tijuana Mexico have received a biopsy proven diagnosis of cancer in the United States. The majority would go to Mexico after all therapies are exhausted in the US. Most after they are told, "there is nothing else we can do at this time."

I do not think there is a 100% treatment with complete recovery for any cancer, excluding Hodgkin's lymphoma. We have excellent cancer centers and treatments available in the United States. I feel any oncologist should discuss at length the treatment available in the US, as well as treatments available in other countries. Patients today are savvy, well informed and well educated. If the actual patient is not, often there is someone in the family who has heard of other therapies. New research on conventional medications is published daily, and there are new herbal treatments for cancers as well. The problem is that not many people hear of the other therapies from their own doctors. Remember, "Anything Worth Learning is Self-Taught."

I do not know what I would do if I were diagnosed with cancer. It depends on the type, but I do know that I would utilize every resource I have for other treatments available. I do know that a change in dietary lifestyle plays an important role. If I didn't meditate already, I would start at that time.

I do not like the general characterizations of other types of treatment for cancer made by other health care professionals and the general public. First of all, if a health professional does not know about these treatments or has not visited the clinics offering treatments, no comments should be made. It is better to state, I am unaware....but I will research this treatment. Many times I learn from patients that other health care professionals use the terms 'quackery', 'fake doctors', etc. People must realize there are many treatments for many diseases that were not taught in medical school, residency or fellowship. I have witnessed successful treatment for various diseases in the jungle, forest, and other countries. What did people do before there were compounded synthesized medications? We relied on Mother Earth and her gifts of plants, herbs and flowers.

There are many authorities on other types of cancer treatments. One of the foremost authorities is Ralph Moss, PhD. Dr Moss is the former science writer for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He has written thirteen books on various cancer topics. For the last 35 years he has investigated cancer treatment options. I highly encourage visiting his website, http://www.cancerdecisions.com/ Read the Moss Report.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 29, 2011 HOMEOPATHY

“Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today.”
James Dean (1931 - 1955)

I love this quote. I love to dream. I have always dreamed, or perhaps daydreamed. I feel I have dream sequences when I meditate. My dream sequences during meditation are not as lively as those from An American in Paris, although I do feel as if I am in a different world when meditating. It seems so strange that James Dean only lived to age 24, whereas Elizabeth Taylor born the same year died at age 79. Both lived life to the fullest. Perhaps a good actor was needed 'elsewhere.' Dreams are successions of images, ideas, emotions and sensations occurring involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep. Dreams have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout recorded history. The scientific study of dreams is known as Oneirology.

If I had not chosen to study herbs and botany recently I would have engaged my mind by learning homeopathy. Homeopathy is a form of safe, non toxic natural medicine based on the principle of "like cures like". This is also called the law of similar, discovered by Samuel Hahnemann of Germany. I love homeopathy because it is drawn from all of the aspects of the natural world: plant, animal and mineral. Health professionals who are trained as Naturopathic Doctors (N.D.) utilize homeopathic remedies as well as herbs, but use homeopathic remedies as their primary treatment.

Bastry University is a premier School for Homeopathics, one of only a few in the United States. The substances used in homeopathy are chosen because they have the capacity to generate symptoms in healthy people. There is FDA supervision for homeopathic remedies in the United States. What I cannot grasp is that since it is regulated by the FDA, why aren't Naturopathic Doctors (ND) licensed in every state? For example, N.D.'s are NOT licensed in New York. I am interested in the homeopathics derived from plants. The plant medicines are drawn from both medicinal and non medicinal plants from all various plant families. Plants in the same family share the same sensation, but each plant also has individual characteristics.

I have recommended homeopathic remedies for many autistic children. I have seen incredible results in these children as well as in those with many other chronic illnesses.

I also recommend the book, The Healing Power of Flowers: Bridging Herbalism, Homeopathy and Flower Essences and the Human Energy System by Rhonda Pallas Downet. Some of you have used homeopathic remedies without realizing it. These are the Bach remedies. These flower essences were first developed in England in the 1920's and 30's by Dr. Edward Bach. He always sought the simpler and natural approach to healing. I can picture myself wandering the fields and meadows of England with Dr. Bach searching for more flowers and plants.

Why do I love homeopathy and herbs? I like the fact that herbalism, flowers and homeopathy exist on a continuum. This natural healing all comes from one source. A source which is very dear to my heart: PLANTS. Plants heal in many ways affecting us physically, psychologically and spiritually. This is the connection. I present it to my patients as healing Body, Mind and Spirit.

You must realize that ancient cultures without the medicine as we know it today practiced healing for centuries. This includes the Greeks, Romans, Mayans, Aztecs, many Asian cultures, and North American Indians. These cultures passed down their wisdom about using plants, animals and natural substances to younger generations and so on. We know some of these today. Few were documented.

Even conventional doctors trained at fine institutions used herbs as a form of treatment in the late nineteenth century and early 20th century. What happened?

Monks, alchemists, prophets and even doctors used herbs as plant medicine.

Why don't we use more herbs for treatment?!

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 28, 2011 RESTLESS LEGS

"When the world says, 'Give Up' HOPE whispers, 'Try it one more time'."

I have had HOPE whisper in my ear on more than one occasion. On my darkest days when hope seemed gone, I would hum the Frank Sinatra lyrics, "Pick Yourself Up, Dust yourself off, and start all over again." How many times did I hum those lyrics? Too many to count. But I had hope. I had a spiritual awakening in those darkest days. Movies and novels are written about the despair, sorrow and sadness of those days. I had everything happen except the dogs barking and biting at my rear. Why was I spared? Perhaps the guardian angels of my mother Vincetta, Katie, my great aunt and Josephine, my Nanny, were looking down and decided to give me one more chance. Having faith--more than hope is the key to survival. Faith...in nature, in Mother Earth, or whatever you choose to call G.O.D. can be the answer. I am very grateful for my life today.

Restless leg syndrome. This is a real condition. For those who suffer from it, Restless leg syndrome (RLS) it can occur anytime. RLS or Wittmaack–Ekbom syndrome is characterized by an irresistible urge to move one's body to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations. It most commonly affects the legs, but can affect the arms, and the torso. Moving the affected body part modulates the sensations, providing temporary relief. RLS causes a sensation most closely compared to a burning, itching, or tickling in the muscles. It is a "spectrum" disease with some people experiencing only a minor annoyance and others experiencing major issues. There is a genetic component to the disease (before the age of 50) and some have connected it with Parkinson's disease

I feel conventional medications are a band-aid, as we really do not have the 'wonder drug' for RLS. There is a lot of controversy surrounding the marketing of drug for this syndrome.

Tests have suggested that serum levels of both ferretin and folate are involved in nutritional aspects of Restless legs syndrome .The levels of these nutrients within cells may not be relevant, nor, apparently, are levels of hemoglobin or free iron. Administration of iron and folate in deficiency cases can provide some relief and sometimes resolve the problem entirely . I also check for heavy metals in the body by doing a serum (blood) test and even a 6 hr provocative urine test.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 27, 2011 IS IT BAD TO TAKE ANTIBIOITCS?

“Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.”

Remember there is no perfection, only progress. Look beyond your own imperfections before you start taking another's inventory. Look at your own house or your personal inventory. Since I believe there is no perfection, why search for it? Everyone has imperfections...or their own little quirks. What are your 'quirks'? Do you leave the toothpaste open at the bathroom sink? I do, but I am trying. Do you leave the toilet seat cover up or down after use? Do you arrange your socks by color in the drawer and your dress shirts by designer? These are just a few, and quite benign. The serious imperfections relate to honesty, love and trust. To work on your own imperfections first you must be aware of them. Then you must acknowledge them. The third and the most important step is to accept your imperfections. Own up to them. Then try to the best of your ability to change them.

Let's be honest - antibiotics have done wonders for many diseases. They may not have eradicated diseases but countless lives have been saved. In my opinion, antibiotics are over prescribed for conditions that will not improve. When it comes to treating children, there are parent expectations that the doctor should definitely prescribe an antibiotic. I would be the first to say that if a patient has a blood borne infection then antibiotics are the only way to go. If a child has a presumed viral infection, then why do physicians prescribe an antibiotic? Yes, it is expectations, but also doctors want to avoid a possible legal action if not prescribed. The safer thing to do is prescribe. As physicians we are ruled by three major factors. One, the insurance companies, two, the pharmaceutical companies and three, the fear of a lawsuit. This is enough for many physicians to change their profession. What happened to the medical profession?

Is there a role for herbs in treating infections? Herbs provide many other benefits in addition to their antimicrobial action. Herbs are less expensive than pharmaceutical medications. Herbs may be superior but we will never know. I doubt you will ever see a double blind trial of an herb versus an antibiotic. Who would sponsor this trial? I do not think a pharmaceutical company would sponsor such a trial. Herbal supplement manufacturers do not have the financial means to sponsor a trial. For the most part, herbal antibiotics are relatively safe, but I would not start the herbal agent and medicine together. I would consult a knowledgeable health care practitioner.

There are some diseases or conditions that could be treated with herbs. An example is Acne. Acne is often treated with long term topical or oral antibiotics. Long term use can severely alter the normal flora throughout the colon causing gastric disturbances and build up of yeast within the colon. Because increased oil production seems to be at the heart of the bacterial growth causing acne, keeping the face clean and free of oil is important.

Some tips and suggestions:

1. Role of diet and acne; check food allergies.

2. Consider adding supplements that help the skin such as Vitamin A, E, C and B6.

3. Alkaline soap removes the natural protective layer acid layer. If you use an alkaline soap reduce the pH of the face by using a toner after.

4. Tea tree oil has significant antiseptic and disinfectant properties.

5. The best oils for oily skin are

a. Clary sage (Salvia scarea)

b. Lavender (Lavendula)

c. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

d. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

e. Yarrow (Archillea millefolium)

I highly suggest you check out http://www.traciemartyn.com/

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 26, 2011 BUILDING A RAISED GARDEN BED

Raised beds are an ideal choice for a medium sized backyard. The bed will create a picturesque display for the fruits of your labor. First you must decide the length, width and height of the bed you want to make. Mark the perimeter with four stakes and strong twine. A good size for the bed is 12 inches high by 6 feet long by 3 feet wide. Cut a piece of wire netting the exact length and width of the planned bed and place it on the ground. This keeps the animals from sneaking underneath into your plants.

You can also grow your herbs in window boxes if you do not have room on the ground. Window boxes do not always have drainage plates so you will have to experiment with that, but they usually receive great sunlight.

Add your compost soil to the prepared bed or window boxes, read the directions on the packet and space seeds accordingly. To get an idea what herbs to plant, check out: http://www.backyardgardener.com/ Be mindful of the herbs and flowers you plant. I want you to help the environment and the declining population of bees. The most important element of a bee garden is the types of flowers it contains. Not all flowers are attractive to bees, and some flowers are much more attractive than others.

Bees are particular about which gardens they visit. Gardens with 10 or more species of attractive plants attracted the largest number of bees. The composition of the garden flowers is also important. Pesticides should never be used on bee gardens. Bees prefer large patches of like flowers planted in close proximity to one another. For your purposes, it is necessary that each patch of flowers (each species) is at least 1.5m x 1.5m. Contrary to how it may seem, bees are actually very shy.

Be like Liberace or Peter Allen and plant colorfully!

Since I will have completed Botanical Latin by the time I start planting, I will be naming the plants with their appropriate Latin names. Labeling each species with their Latin scientific name is extremely important. Important for you and the individuals who will admire your garden. I will be sure the labels can endure rain. I do not want my labeled plant names to be running or dripping with ink.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 25, 2011 SEED PLANTING TIPS

"There are benefits that should accompany old age. Fairly good health to the end, an unceasing interest in life, and the affectionate esteem of a large circle of friends." - Samuel Wilks, In Men and Books on William Osler, 6.

I pray that I am in fairly good health to the end. If I continue my already unceasing interest in life that I have today I will be fine. I see many older patients who have good health and a fond interest in life and hobbies. Depending on their age, their circle of friends can be large or small. Usually as my patients get older, the larger circle of friends dwindles. I do know that my Poppy's vegetable garden on the side of my childhood home kept him in good spirits into his nineties. He prided himself in his tomatoes every season. When he had company over to visit, each left with a brown bag of tomatoes. His smile was infectious.

More than 70 % of my patients have a hobby that boosts their self esteem. One of the most common hobbies is gardening. Two of my long time apartments in New York City have had outdoor space for a garden. One day I returned from work to find a pond with a stream of water on river rocks built by Rick and my son,Gregory. At the top was a Chinese maple tree. Today, on our Roosevelt Island terrace we have the opportunity to plant an herb garden and flowering plants in pots.

Do you start with seed packets? I think it is better to start with seeds. Everyone can buy the potted plants and herbs, but I find it more gratifying to plant from seeds. I have already started buying my seeds from http://www.botanicalinterests.com/

Here are some tips to give your seeds a successful start.

1. Pick containers. I prefer to buy them from a catalog. I usually get cowpots from Botanical Interests.

2. You will need a quality seed starting mix . It should be finely milled to provide good drainage.

3. Check the back panel to see if your seeds require light or dark to germinate.

4. Always maintain adequate moisture.

5. If growing indoors you will need 14-16 hours of fluorescent light. The lights should be placed 1 - 2 inches above the seedlings.

6. Once the first true leaves appear and there is no danger of any more early morning frost you can start to transplant them outside. I prefer starting outdoors as indoor seedlings are fragile. Growing in the cowpots outside makes hardier plants.

7. If you start outdoors you must start when you are sure there will be no more frost.

8. If starting outdoors use average garden soil with well-aged compost.

9. Follow the back label seed packet directions for spacing

10. Water daily. Newly sown seeds might need water twice a day. Check them often.

You will enjoy your garden. Be proud of your accomplishment.

Until tomorrow...

Elizabeth Taylor (1931 - 2011) - Beauty, eyes, style, performances - Legend

MARCH 24, 2011 THE RINSE FORMULA

In my 17 years of practice I have heard about most diets, cleanses and supplements. Since I practiced with the most famous diet guru, the late Robert Atkins, MD I have had the opportunity to meet other famous doctors. I also had the opportunity to study other diet protocols. Today there are more books on diet than ever before.

Recently a patient gave me a paper about the Dr Jacobus Rinse formula for Cardiovascular Disease. I was curious as I had never heard of Dr. Rinse. In the 1950's, when Dr. Rinse was about 50, he was told by doctors that he had heart disease and little time to live. Since he was a chemist he started researching and studying . He thought he could delay his death with vitamins, supplements and food.

So far I like this guy. In 1988, when the good Dr. Rinse was himself 88, he gave the formula below to his daughter. There have been variations of this 'pick me up' formula for Cardiovascular disease over the years. From readings I might call him the father of lecithin (or phosphatidylcholine)

1. 2 tablespoons of lecithin granules

2. 1 tablespoon raw wheat germ

3. 1 tablespoon of honey, blackstrap molasses or brown sugar (your choice)

4. 1 tablespoon of debittered brewer's yeast

5. 1 tablespoon of cold pressed sunflower oil (I have seen variations with corn and safflower oil)

6. 1/2 teaspoon of bone meal powder (or 500 mg calcium orotate and 500 mg magnesium orotate)

Mix and sprinkle over cereal. You can also mix with yogurt or even stir in a juice. I would probably start with smaller amounts of yeast and wheat germ.

It does make sense that the lecithin and the linoleic acid (from the oil) combine to form the key to dissolving plaque, or preventing it from forming.

In addition he states you should take a multivitamin, vitamin E, 50 mg of a zinc derivative, 50 mg of selenium, 1000 of vitamin C, and 50 mg vitamin B6.

So far it sounds good, but I am a bit hesitant.

Why haven't I heard of this man? Dr. Atkins never mentioned Dr. Rinse. If this formula is so good, why has no other doctor used it before? There are few if any studies on this formula. We need more.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 23, 2011 OTC, OTC, OTC

"Rejoice in the things that are present; all else is beyond thee." - Montaigne

"You can clutch the past so tightly to your chest that it leaves your arms too full to embrace the present." - Jan Glidewell

"Waste not fresh tears over old griefs." - Euripides

These three quotes coupled with "A Day at A Time" are my mantras for living in the present. This is why I do NOT clutch the past so tightly to my chest. I look back with a parting glance. I remember all the past- some with sadness and some with joy and happiness. Life is too short. I want to get the most out of life TODAY--NOT for the PAST, nor for the FUTURE TOMORROWS.

When someone celebrates their 5th sober anniversary they say that he/she "gets their brains back". I am so delighted that my addictions did not disturb my mental capacity to remember, process and adjust my thoughts. I am fortunate I had the fellowship of the 12 step program and my sponsor to rely on for answers. I wouldn't be here today if not for all of them. I followed suggestions. I was told not to beat myself up about the past. I had to remember, reflect and make amends. I did that including financial amends. Euripidis, ancient scholar, stated it simply: "Waste not fresh tears over old griefs". What purpose would that serve anyway? Think about the time wasted with those fresh tears. He really means Letting Go of the past.

We all at one time in our lives have used an OTC (OVER THE COUNTER) drug. If you haven't then you are definitely in the minority. Over-the-Counter (OTC) drugs can interfere with many conventional drugs. If you look at the packages you know that because there are warning labels on most of them to consult your physician if you have high blood pressure, diabetes etc. Two giants in the field of Alternative Medicine (now called Integrative Medicine) are Drs. Mercola and Galland. Recently Dr. Mercola posted a reply to this article by Dr. Leo Galland about OTC drugs.

There has been speculation that many of the OTC's cause memory loss and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), both of which are associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Common OTC drugs such as antihistamines, cold medicines, anti-acid medications and others can disrupt the activity of an important brain neurotransmitter called Acetylcholine (ACh). ACh plays a vital role in memory and cognitive function.

The list of these OTC drugs with anti-cholinergic effects is long according to Mercola and Galland. There is a cumulative effect to the brain, memory and cognitive abilities. The classes of drugs that are anti-cholinergic include Antispasmotics (examples: donnatal, bentyl), Antihistamines (examples: OTC's Contac, bendryl, Chlortimeton, Tavist, Claritin, Clarinex, Unisom, Dramamine and Antivert), Antipsychotics (examples: thorazine), Antiparkinsonian (examples: Symmetrel, Cogentin), Antacids (examples: Tagamet, Pepcid, Zantac - all available OTC now), and Antibioitcs (examples: keflex, amoxocillin, lomotil, lavaquin and many more). There are also the antiemetics, muscle relaxants, and anti-colinergic eye drops .

The most common OTC's you might take involve the antihistamines and antacids.

In the article referenced above, Dr Leo Galland said, "...that most physicians and other health care professionals are unaware of the anti-cholinergic properties of these medications."

I do agree with him. I also agree that there are too many potentially dangerous OTC's. ACh is responsible for many important communications in your body. If you are feeling stuffy, find an alternative answer. There are sublingual homeopathic remedies, the Netti Pot, and herbs like stinging nettles for your sinuses. If you have an upset stomach, think twice before grabbing the Pepcid. Find the herbal way- ginger, meadowsweet, marshmellow, catnip and aloe.

If you want to enhance your own acetylcholine levels, take the supplement choline (1- 3 grams or 1000-3000 mg/day). In addition you can take vitamin B5 in doses of (500-2000 mg). Both will allow your own body to produce more ACh.

Think twice, and then again before taking an OVER THE COUNTER medication.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 22, 2011 AROMATASE INHIBITORS

"Friends are the most important ingredient in this recipe of life."

Everyone needs friends--true friends. I think we use the word friend too loosely, much like the way we use the word 'love'.

More often than not, your friends might be acquaintances. True friends are those who have been on your roller coaster of life. These true friends know your skeletons and your deepest secrets. These are the ones you call when you are in trouble, and you know they will be there for you at any time of the day. Most of my Facebook friends are nothing more than acquaintances. As I get older my true friends are fewer in number. Many I might have considered true friends at one time are now merely acquaintances. When relationships end there is always a division of friends. I saw that years ago when I ended a relationship. I was not alright with it at the beginning but gradually began to understand. My one true friend was there then and is still in my life today. I try to talk to my children about this, but everyone must learn for themselves, including them.

I have many patients whom complain of health problems since menopause. These females are linking this to low estrogen. There are conditions that benefit from inhibiting estrogen and enhancing production of testosterone. Many females can experience some estrogen surges during menopause and in premenopausal times. This estrogen dominance can start early in some cases. There are diseases and some conditions related to excess estrogen and deficient progesterone in women. These are weight gain, fibrocystic diease, PMS, migraines, menstrual cycle disturbances, endometriosis and ovarian cysts. From the field of Epigenomics, we have learned that chemicals in our environment-- in food, water, and air have estrogenic effects. DDT is just one example.

I want to discuss briefly aromatase. Aromatase is an enzyme required for the conversion of androgens (like testosterone) to estrogens. Aromatase inhibitors decrease the concentration of estrogens in the body. Thus these aromatase INHIBITORS are effective in treating tumors that depend on estrogen for growth. This is way they are used in breast cancer. The example is tamoxifen.

This aromatase enzyme is found in the liver. It converts androstenedione and testosterone into the estrogens estrone and estradiol. By inhibiting aromatase (using an aromatase inhibitor) you would produce less estrogen and more testosterone. The reasons to use an aromatase inhibitor in women are to promote healthy breast tissue and muscle mass, and to inhibit fibroids.

The reasons to use an aromatase inhibitor in men is that the aromatase activity INCREASES with age so what little testosterone a man has when he gets old might be converted to estrogens. This is why there is 'male menopause" So by using an aromatase inhibitor in men you will have healthy prostate tissue, proper testosterone levels and a healthy sperm count. Some of you think that testosterone is adversely associated with prostate cancer are now learning that is not necessarily true.

Do you have to take a conventional aromatase inhibitor? The answer is NO. There are supplements and herbs that are aromatase inhibitors. Do you start taking these without consulting your physician? The answer is NO.

Chrysin is an aromatase inhibitor. It is found in the herb Passiflora incarnata

(see photograph above)

Apigenin is another aromatase inhibitor found in species of the herb Chamomile

Isoflavones found in soy, especially genistein and diadzein are potent aromatase inhibitors.

I am in favor of boosting testosterone levels in men. I have no problem with giving testosterone. However, now I check LH, SBG and estrogen levels in men. If estrogen levels are high, why would I give testosterone. It means the enzyme aromatase (which gets higher when we get old) will convert the testosterone I am giving to more estrogen, defeating the purpose. I would use these natural aromatase inhibitors listed above. Not only are they safer but most have other beneficial properties such as being strong antioxidants.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 21, 2011 YOUR HERBAL GARDEN

"LIVE AS IF YOU WERE TO DIE TOMORROW and LEARN AS IF YOU WERE TO LIVE FOREVER."- Gandhi

I try to live each day to the fullest but sometimes Life gets in the way. I remember each day to embrace "Life on Life's terms". Life is sometimes like a roller coaster. I have certainly been on the ride of my life. I have endured it through prayer and meditation. I sometimes reflect on my life 30 years ago. I know I was not sober at that time. So I had problems. I still have problems today. But who doesn't? If someone says they have no problems in their life, then something is wrong. They might not have big problems, but part of life is to have problems. This way you can learn from them and not make the same mistakes again and again. I am constantly learning. I love to learn. I learn from my mistakes. I learn from other people. I learn from prayer and meditation. I learn from 12 step meetings. I learn from patients. I learn from my partner. I learn from my children. I learn from listening to my heart. I learn from books. I want to learn as if I were to live forever.

One of the great advantages of using herbs for health and healing is their relative safety. I have been using herbs for myself and my patients for more than fifteen years. I know plants/herbs are safer than pharmaceuticals, but I do caution patients that higher doses of an herb are not always safe. Exploring how to use herbs has been one of the greatest gifts bestowed upon me.

I have learned that some herbs need a little more caution than others. This does not mean these herbs are not used. I use all herbs I am familiar with. There are only a very few that I have not used. I am sure if a patient ate too much black licorice, a problem would arise. If a patient had too much theobroma (chocolate) there would be a problem.

Do you think if caffeine was a drug that the FDA would approve it? I think not, but you never know. As I read Sauer's Herbal Cures, I am amazed at the many side effects he mentions for certain herbs. It seems that nausea and vomiting are possible with just about any herb.

Today with the NIH and the NCI doing more studies on herbs, there is less negative press about herb use. I do know that if you are pregnant you should avoid large quantities of herbs, especially those herbs with aspirin-like qualities like white willow bark (Salix ssp.)

Are you motivated to use herbs? Are you motivated enough to start growing them in a small pots or in a small area of your garden? Go to the garage, get out the spade and hoe and turn a small area into an herb garden. Get high quality seeds. I use http://www.botanicalinterests.com/

You will be empowered by your garden--I promise you. Herb seeds are easy to grow and can be enjoyed indoors and out! Whether you're looking for classic herb seeds, organic herb seeds, or you are ready to explore new flavors, you'll find plenty of fun and flavorful herb seeds for sale.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 20,M 2011 ERASE AGE SPOTS

"A man must have faith in himself " - Sir William Osler

You might not feel that you have faith in anything, but to be of any use in the world you must have faith in yourself. I had no faith in myself years ago. I had low self esteem. Even when I got sober, it took years to have any faith in myself. Essential to my success in my GOD chosen profession was belief in my mission. My mission was to help others. Once I had the confidence in myself everything seemed to follow. I had to meditate. I had fear of success and also fear of failure. It was a dilemma. Do you have confidence in what you do ?

The cosmetic and fashion industry changes fads and trends for the world. The main focus of the cosmetic industry is making us all look youthful--which involves slowing the effects of aging on our skin. If you want to slow the aging process of your skin, encourage your natural collagen production with herbs and foods that contain lots of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is under utilized and the most unappreciated vitamin by conventional physicians. Think about other compounds that are associated with Vitamin C. Every medical student should be able to name at least one. Maybe not! The reason is that every medical student needs to remember the co factors used in the production of energy. This is called the Kreb cycle. The most common compounds are the bioflavinoids.

If you carefully analyze cosmetics they contain many antioxidants in the form of natural herbs. I love antioxidants for the treatment of liver spots and age spots. Today there are many bleaching agents used on age spots. In Los Angeles there are clinics that use chemicals for bleaching. You cannot imagine what areas get bleached these days. I would recommend natural bleaching agents. The three favorites are horseradish, vinegar and lemon.

AGE SPOT REMOVER:

1. 1 teaspoon of grated horseradish root

2. 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar

3. 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice

4. 3 drops of rosemary essential oil

Add the lemon juice and vinegar to the grated horseradish as quickly as possible, before the enzymes start their breakdown process. Add the rosemary and mix well. Be careful--VERY CAREFUL to keep mixture away from eyes, nose and other sensitive areas of the body.

GET RID OF THOSE AGE SPOTS! For those who do not want to use the mixture above, I have another solution. Buy DMAE and take capsules 2 - 3 times a day.

I want to also tell you about the greatest facial you will ever experience in your life. It is not pore unclogging or proding at your face. It is rejuvenating. I have had one and highly recommend it. Welcome to Tracie Martyn.

Are you looking for easy to use skin care that works? Are you looking for skincare based on safe, natural and organic ingredients? Check out www.traciemartyn.com I use her products and I cannot tell you how many people have commented on what I did to my face! I did nothing except take better care of myself. Outer beauty is important.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 19, 2011 YOUR MATURE COMPLEXION

"JOY IS A SUSTAINED SENSE OF WELL-BEING AND INTERNAL PEACE- A CONNECTION TO WHAT MATTERS" - Oprah Winfrey

Who doesn't want a sense of well being with internal peace? These days I have more internally peaceful days than not. Even the days without internal peace are much better than the days when I was not sober. I try to have a sustained sense of well-being by being active most of the day but also having my moments of tranquility and meditation. I need a connection to what matters every day. I need to connect medically, spiritually and emotionally with my patients in order to help them with their healing process. I am the facilitator of the healing process. It has to come from within the patient. You could say I am a catalyst to their healing. I make a lot of suggestions to the patient in order to allow them to achieve their own healing. Some individuals already know they are on the right path, but still need encouragement. I am honored to be part of an individual's healing process. It makes my heart swell with enlightenment.

The one part of your body that takes on more character than any other area is the FACE. I would rather keep my immature younger, smoother face. Lines start to form in your thirties. Those of us who are "Baby Boomers" already have wrinkles. If you have wrinkles at a young age, you probably have a fair complexion and thin layer of fat under your skin. Most mature skin is dry. This is me. I have wrinkles at nearly 51. Not horrible deep lines, but lines that distinguish me as mature, debonair and handsome. I even started to grow a goatee. I left it gray despite the fact that my daughter thinks I should color it. I try to keep it short. I think it looks distinguishing.

I have changed a well known quote to say, "If G.O.D. has to give men wrinkles, he might at least put them on the soles of the feet." At least a pedicure could be done to remove the wrinkles. Perhaps Mae West would have said to put more wrinkles in the 'gun in their pockets.'

For the dry skin I like to apply rose geranium, jasmine and myrrh to rejuvenate my skin. Myrrh is mentioned in James Duke's Medicinal Plants from the Bible. I have seen some herbalists use very unusual essential oils on dry skin such as carrot seed and rock rose. I prefer comfrey to stimulate skin-cell growth and soothe skin. You can also use marshmallow.

As far back as Egyptian times, there were a few anti aging herbs that are still used today. They are lavender, rose, rosemary, fennel and neroli. You probably have never heard of neroli. It is the plant oil from the blossom of the bitter orange tree. It is written that the 13th Duchess of Alba used rose water and almond oil mixed with egg white for her wrinkles. The Duchess' relationship with famed Spanish painter Francisco Goya and her somewhat eccentric personality have contributed greatly to a continuing interest in her life during the two centuries since her death. It was her complexion that everyone talked about. Goya executed several well known portraits of the duchess. I am sure that foreign film actresses like Garbo and Dietrich used similar techniques.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 18, 2011 RUBBER STAMPING

"Mental healing can be valuable." - Sir William Osler


Although mental healing has been used for centuries with good results, I added a different dimension- The Hobby. Hobbies are healing in their own right. Not only does it boost your self-esteem when a project is completed, but its a great value as a measure of healing one's soul in suitable cases. Everyone can do a hobby. The trick is finding the suitable one for each patient. I can only SUGGEST ideas for hobbies. Science can not supply the heart as Dr. Osler pointed out in one of his famous lectures. To expand on his words-- The heart can be supplied, often miraculously to heal one's wounds. I have seen it accomplished by finding a hobby for yourself. This is your own hobby. You might make a new friend, or perhaps a new partner in this new discovered hobby. The best part is that you will find the little boy or little girl within yourself no matter what age you are.

Do you remember doing rubber stamping with a potato when you were a child? I do. You cut an image, like a star on the potato and used ink and to stamp the image onto paper. I did this in Cub Scouts. My mother was a den mother. She always had many crafty ideas for us in cub scouts. I even remember making candy dishes from melting old records in the oven. We molded different shapes for our candy dishes. I wonder now how toxic to our lungs that project was. I remember using Readers Digest magazines to make Christmas angels and trees by folding the corners of each page. Not as toxic until you used the Spray Paint!

I have done Rubber Stamping using a stamp block to make my own cards and stationery. But this art form can go beyond card making by stamping walls, furniture and even your clothing depending on the type of ink or dye you use. Dye based inks are less expensive than pigment. The metallic inks impart clean edges. I use a variety of different inks. I use Craft Smart, Color Box and the premier of all inks: Stazon. The expense does depend on where you buy them. I often shop at Michael's (now in NYC) and AC Moore. The rubber stamps are often mounted on wood for easy gripping. These are more expensive, but come in a wide variety of shapes. You can purchase the less expensive ones and mount them on foam before using them. You can also take them on and off acrylic mounts (which I do prefer for easy storage).

You can do almost anything with rubber stamps. I made greeting cards for all different occasions and sold them at the Cherry Grove Art Sale for charity. You can get very creative with types of paper you use, the layering of the various types of papers, and added bonuses. I added small rattles for Baby cards, and put Christmas ornaments on the Holiday cards. I even used stitching on my cards. My crafty friend, Carol and I started this together. We went to a Stamp Fair in Long Island. We boarded the bus in front of Ink Pad at 22 8th Avenue, New York City. We even got a stamping bag from the store as an added bonus and off we went. This is the only year in four years that we didn't go as we each had prior engagements. We can't miss next year as we both made great cards. I love her cards. I tend to make 40 at one time, where Carol devotes more time and creativity to a few cards at a time.

The history of rubber stamping dates back to 1844. We have to give credit to the process of curing rubber to Charles Goodyear. He experimented with cooking rubber and sulphur together and discovered that the elasticity held. Rubber stamping is used in banks, offices and in post offices. The scrapbookers (another hobby) use rubber stamping in their book creations. There are clubs, magazines and countless aisles at Michael's devoted to rubber stamping.

It can get expensive so find someone who also stamps and share materials. You will need card and envelope stock, stamps, inks and perhaps some 'extras' for your cards. 'Extras' may be items such as personal photos. Martha Stewart has a lot of the added items, cutters, and objects for your cards. I used quilling on some of my cards.

Make a special card for someone today.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 17, 2011 GROW HAIR GROW

"Pureness in your heart will provide you with fullness in your life."

To the best of my ability, I try to have pureness in my heart. Sometimes the pureness and goodness has interfered with my personal life. For example, I get too involved with the patient's diagnosis , psychology and personal matters. I do not think this is a bad quality, but it saddens me when I see individuals struggle with disease. Their disease not only affects them, but it does affect me. I love my patients. Of course like any occupation there are struggles. I deal with the struggles.

My life is full. I like to have little 'downtime.' Last night my downtime was knitting. K1,P1 a couple of rows and I am ready to sleep. Of course I had to read some of The Queen Must Die too. It is not about human royalty, but in a way it is. It is about the Queen Bee. Not the 1955, Joan Crawford film by the same name-Queen Bee. It is about Eva Phillips. She is a Southern socialite whose manipulation and ruthlessness ruins the lives of everyone around her. The question is, will anyone be able to stop her? Will anyone be able to stop the Queen Honeybee?

No one wants to go bald. Neither man nor woman. I certainly do not. I am happy to say in the last 12 months I do not have to worry about that. Why, you may ask? Because I have used herbs and massage oils for my hair. Every magazine has that one magic bullet to grow your hair. I have found that these products only slow the progression of hair loss. There is no diet for baldness. It is the diet that you use for your general health. If you do have a poor dietary lifestyle, it must be changed. I encourage plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and please go easy on the saturated fats.

We do know that malnutrition and heavy dieting can cause hair loss. I think my hair loss was due to perms and coloring during my early twenties. I do know that your hair needs protein but when I see high protein more than 40%, I also see hair loss.

Until recently I have not seen herbs that could bring hair back. The one herb that has been incredible for me is Horsetail. I ingest the tincture every single day. I have been massaging it on my hair in an oil that I have made for myself. For centuries, both men and women have massaged olive oil in their hair. Massaging the scalp stimulates the circulation and encourages hair to grow. The French have it down--they have used nettles extracted in apple cider vinegar on their heads.

YOU DO KNOW THAT HAIR IS DEAD, BUT THE SCALP IS ALIVE?

Since the scalp is alive it can respond to herbal treatments.

I have used a massaging oil for my hair from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/

If you want to make your own, try this:

1. 1 cup of aloe vera gel

2. 1/2 teaspoon of rosemary essential oil

3. 3-4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar

4. 1/2 teaspoon of Vitamin E

5. 1 tablespoon of nettles tincture

Combine in a blender and mix until smooth. Massage a small amount on the scalp every day. I also add a 1/2 teaspoon of horsetail tincture to the above mixture. It is the Pat Frat Hair Formula.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 16, 2011 SMOKE CAN BE GREEN

"It is a sign of strength, not of weakness, to admit that you do not know all the answers"
- John P Lougbrane

I used to think I needed to know all the answers. I admit that it was due to my low self esteem growing up. Yes, I too had low self esteem. I even had low self esteem into adulthood. What changed? I got sober. I began to realize that NOT knowing all the answers is a sign of strength, not weakness. I could finally admit I do not know all the answers, but am willing to learn. My willingness to learn just about anything has changed my life. If I truly do not know an answer I will admit I do NOT know the answer. Do I know everything about medicine? NO, and neither does anyone else. I know the basics. I have lived by the blog motto-Anything Worth Learning is Self -Taught. It goes beyond that. I will ask the right questions, take the right courses and seek out the right people to get the answers. I would have never done that years ago. I would talk a good talk--today, I walk the walk. Do you talk the talk and NOT walk the walk? Do you just like to hear yourself talk? Are you selfish?

A good example was last night in my Botanical Latin course. I took Latin in college and even taught Latin to undergraduates. I should remember something. I do , but not enough without asking questions and studying. This course is all about Botany. Despite my love for herbs, and the knowledge over the years- I was not speaking the genus and species correctly for the plants, nor could I tell the difference is a plant name was of feminine or masculine origin. I got the answers last night. Did I feel less than for not knowing? Absolutely not, I felt invigorated in the fact that my brain cells still have the capacity to learn.

Let's talk about cigarette smoking. As a former smoker , I have seen a change in the number of people who continue to smoke. I am seeing more and more teenagers smoke. The advertising in geared towards this age group. Twenty percent of adults still smoke. According to the American Cancer Society , 1000 under the age 18 start this habit daily. 43% of adults attempt to quit, but there is a 70-80% FAILURE RATE. I was one of those failures. I started to smoke after I got sober. I am being honest.

There are many ways to attempt to quit. You can use conventional nicotine patches, zyban and now, chantix. There are side effects with everything in medicine. I know that smoking was harder to quit for me, than any other

But here is my honesty. I am a human being with life on life's terms. I knew better but I ignored the harmful effects. How could I tell a patient to stop, when I didn't. Now I did. I tried the nicotine gum and felt ill.

You need support in life from family and friends. I have the support. Support is the ticket to recovery from many addictions. I know that because at 2 months sober , in August 1994, I had the support of a loving man- my dad. My dad drove me to meetings and waited outside until the meeting ended to take me home. Here was a 73 year old man with his 34 year old son entering the parking lot of many churches holding 12 step meetings in the church basement. I started to smoke after I got sober. Can you imagine that.
I used homeopathic remedies( Lobelia and Boron's Anti-Smoking Pack) to stop at one point. But I started again. I was smoke free using colleagues and friend's hypotherapy program - Stop Smoking for the Last Time by George Wissing. Not only did he help me but many of my patients. So what happens--my dad gets ill and I rely again on this addiction.

So do not beat yourself. Famed nutritionist, Carlton Fredericks smoked everyday in his office until smoking beat him down. Even, President Obama had this addiction in addition to countless millions. So you are not alone.

What I learned is the patient has to want to quit this addiction. We all have addictions- good and bad. Addiction to family drama, addiction to the Blackberry, addiction to the iPad, addiction to Diet Soda, addiction to sugar and addiction to sex. There are 12 step programs for many of those addictions, although I personally do not know of the 12 step iPAD addiction program !

Through a dear friend needing to stop smoking due to upcoming surgery, I was able to come to terms with reality. If an individual who has smoked far more than my 5 cigarettes a day can stop--so can I. This dear friend, used an electronic cigarette with water vapor smoke to stop. He researched the many on the market. The consumer lab report listed http://www.greensmoke.com/ as the best choice. After seeing what a difference it made in his life - I become a Green Smoke carrying card member. I love the menthol, vanilla and mocha filters without ANY nicotine. I feel privileged to have found a new way.

You can use the http://www.quitsmoke.net/ assistance or other anti-smoking programs

Whatever method you decide to use to stop any addiction, you have to want yourself to stop.

Until tomorrow...

MARCH 15, 2011 HERBAL TREATMENT FOR AUTOIMMUNE THYROIDITS

"It is YOU, not where you are or what you have that makes the difference."

If you decide to move to another area in the city, another state, or abroad to change your life--think again. What is it about you that must change? In sobriety, we call this a geographic. Geography does not change the problems. You may be avoiding the people, places and things that drive you 'nuts' but you will soon find new places and things that make you 'nuts'. Meaningful change happens within.

It also does not matter what you have in the way of finances, or 'things'. Did you ever know someone who had wealth and fortune and was also miserable? The wealthiest person is the healthiest person, not the richest. These individuals are rich in health - both physically and emotionally.

Is there anything about yourself that you would like to change? I became aware of many of my 'character defects' years ago. Do I still have them? Some I retain--but these defects are workable, and there are some I no longer possess. I am not perfect. I have progressed favorably over the years.

Make a list of your character defects. Pick one you would like to work on first.

Autoimmune thyroidits is called Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. It is an inflammatory disease of the thyroid in which the cells within the thyroid are gradually destroyed by your own antibodies. These antibodies that target specific tissues of the body are called autoantibodies. The two autoantibodies tested for the thyroid are thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin. These autoantibodies reduce the capacity for thyroxine and thyronine hormone production causing hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, constipation, hair thinning or hair loss and loss of outer third of eyebrows. You DO NOT have to have all these symptoms at one time to have Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

Conventional Endocrinologists treat it by starting the patient on synthroid or levothyroxine.

The goal is to treat the production of thyroid antibodies. I feel levothyoixine (brand name synthroid) medical treatment is limited. You must regulate the immune function. Hashimoto's is related to the consumption of gluten (barley, rye , oats and wheat).

The medication is a band aid if you do not change your dietary lifestyle by omitting gluten from your diet. If you still have antibodies while on synthroid (levothyroxine) and following a dietary lifestyle--there is another way.

1. Check to see if you have excess metals either by a serum blood test or 6 hour provocative urine test. Metals, especially mercury has been shown to bind to the thyroid and cause shifts in thyroid hormone production.

2. Check out low dose naltrexone (LDN) and its use for autoimmune disorders

3. If you have Hashimoto's which is autoimmune, then there likely are other autoimmune diseases present that have yet to appear.

4. If you are on synthroid and you still have antibodies and consider these two options:

a. since the antibodies are binding to the synthroid, consider using additional thyroid either by the addition of a natural thyroid or adding a product called thyrotropin (glandular extract from Standard Process)
b. since the anitbodies are binding to the synthroid, consider using herbal remedies

Herbal Remedies:

1. Rehmannia Root has anti inflammatory activity with immune mediating effects. It is sometimes called Chinese foxglove. I have used this herb to regulate female menstrual flow and for viral hepatitis.

2. Echinacea - the best herb for immune modulating effects. The first herb anyone should start if never on herbs.

3. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is an adaptogen; it will increase thyroid hormone levels. Sometimes called Indian ginseng. There are two other adaptogens also used for Hashimoto's: Siberian ginseng (Eleuthrococcus) and Centella (Gotu kola). There are many other benefits to Withania such as reducing anxiety, improving diabetes, arthritis, muscle weakness and much more.

4. Hypericum (St. Johns Wort) is used as an additive herb to the above. It is a great boost to the immune system and it is active against the enveloped viruses such as Herpes, Cytomegalo, Epstein Barr virus.

5. Seaweed (Bladderwrack) - contains large amounts of iodine which will stimulate the thyroid.

NONE OF THE TREATMENT DISCUSSED ABOVE SHOULD BE DONE WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER.

There are other treatment options for Hashimoto's that you can discuss with your doctor. Increasing your own knowledge of this thyroid condition can not only educate yourself, but your own doctor as well if you discuss it with her/him.

Top photograph: Withania

Until tomorrow....