10. Wet Laundry.

How can there be bacteria in the machine designed to clean our clothing? When clothes go into the washing machine, bacteria from one piece of clothing can easily transfer to another. Dangerous viruses like hepatitis A are also especially transferable. Using the hot cycle in a dryer has been found to kill off a lot of the remaining bacteria and is a good precaution. Bleach has been found to kill 100 percent of bacteria on clothing when paired with a hot drying cycle.

9. Money / Credit Cards.

These everyday essentials get handled by lots of people, and germs thrive on the surface of money or lurk  in the crevices around numbers  in case of credit cards. Since it's hard to avoid handling the literally dirty money, give a debit cards a quick cleaning with diluted alcohol wipe once in a while and let them air dry before placing them back in your wallet.

8. Kitchen and bathroom Faucets and Sinks.

WebMD reported that Faucets and sponges in kitchens harbor more germs than bathroom surfaces. In the Hygiene Council survey, kitchen faucet handles carried more than 13,000 bacteria per square inch and bathroom faucet handles had more than 6,000 germs per square inch. This is higher than most other spots in the home. WebMD recommends using a disinfectant spray cleaner every night after cleaning up.

7. Vacuum Cleaner.

These marvelous contraptions are designed to clean the home, but they can also be a central source of bacteria. “We looked at 30 vacuum brushes. Fifty percent contained coliform fecal bacteria and 13 percent E. coli,” a scientist told WebMD. “There's not much you can do about the brush,” he says. “Vacuum the cleanest areas first and the dirtiest last,” he suggests. That way, you'll be less likely to spread around as much bacteria.

6. Light Switches and TV Remotes.

These are places we often touch every day, and normally forget to sanitize. Many of us are guilty of grabbing an after-work snack and flipping on our DVR. Bacteria from many different sets of hands and the remnants of couch-potato snacking has probably accumulated into a ceste pool of germs. If a member of your household is sick it is especially important to wipe them down.

5. Your Toothbrush.

Do you store your toothbrush on the bathroom counter? Considering that flushing the toilet can cause germs to fly anywhere from 6-10 feet, you may want to reconsider. At the very least, keep your brush as far from the toilet as possible, and protect it in a plastic container or holder.
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months. Antibacterial soaps do little to kill the bacteria found on toothbrushes. To clean it, try running it through your dishwasher about once a week, since the high heat will help sterilize the brush. Finally, don't share your toothbrush with anyone, and avoid storing it in a communal cup or container. Store each brush separately in an upright position to allow the bristles to dry after each use.

4. Kitchen Sponges and Cloths.

Sponges make it easy to wipe up spills and messes, but they also make it easy for bacteria and germs to grow. Sponges stay wet long after they aren't being used anymore, creating the perfect environment for budding microbes to flourish. These pieces designed to clean other things may in fact be some of the most germ-infested parts of the home.  The recommendation is to run sponges through the dishwasher regularly and dish cloths through the washing machine. A recent study conducted by the Hygiene council showed that over 70 percent of kitchen sponges in U.S. homes failed a hygiene test.  WebMD reported that Cleaning cloths were the most contaminated items sampled by the Hygiene council. Thirty-one percent of cloths were contaminated with E. coli and 21 percent with Staphylococcus aureus. Watch out for your purse too.

3. Bathtub and Shower.

The Center for Hygiene and Health in Home and Community conducted an in-home study that revealed many bathtubs contain up to 100 times the amount of bacteria found in a trash can. Experts recommend disinfecting bathtubs and showers at least once every two weeks.

2. Workplace Desktop (PC, keyboard etc.)

According to the National Research Center for Women and Families, studies have found the average desktop has 400 times more bacteria than a toilet bowl. Since most people overlook this area for cleaning, germs that cause the flu and common cold are able to thrive and multiply. And what about the microwave handle and refrigerator door in the office kitchen? Office kitchens in general are very germy places, so you may want to take some precautions the next time you are heating up your lunch.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends regularly wiping down your desk with a disinfectant. Bleach or alcohol-based cleaners do the trick; antibacterial cleaners are not necessary. If you use the office kitchen, make sure to wash your hands with warm water and regular soap before and after eating your lunch. Washing your hands for 15 to 20 seconds is sufficient enough to kill off any harmful germs that may be lingering. Alcohol-based hand wipes and gel sanitizers also work when soap and water are not available.

1. Your Hands

Consider all the surfaces you touch over the course of the day. Then consider all the other people who have touched the same exact surfaces as well. Let's face it — our hands are dirty bacteria transmitters. They are the common link in spreading germs.
You may know that washing your hands is essential, especially during cold and flu season, but do you know how to wash them effectively? The CDC recommends washing your hands, front and back, for 15-20 seconds with regular soap and water (no need for antibacterial soaps–using these can actually cause adverse effects). A good rule of thumb is to recite the entire alphabet in your head from start to finish while scrubbing up. This is sufficient time to rid your hands of any harmful germs that may be lingering.

So, should we run around our homes sanitizing each and every surface? Probably not. Many germs in our homes are not dangerous. Consumers today are bombarded with cleaning products from every direction that encourage sterilizing the house and preventing illness, but in reality many of these germs are natural and good for our bodies. Children especially need to be exposed to many different types of bacteria from a young age in order to develop a strong immune system.
However, some studies show that up to 65 percent of common colds are picked up from bacteria transferred through household items. When anyone with a cold or other illness has entered the house, it may be a good idea to sanitize these ten household items in order to prevent spread of the cold or disease.

The University of Arizona and Kimberly Clarke recently reported some external threats as well:  Vending Machines, Mailboxes, Phones, Purses/Wallets automobile dashboards, children's car seats, cutting boards and TADA the worst ever...the airplane bathroom...

It is possible to build and protect our health so that we can live life optimally.  Radiant health is attainable, and we can maintain it once we have it.  Radiant health is attainable if we learn the secrets of living in accord with Nature's laws and take advantage of a few of Nature's tools.

Among the great “tools” discovered by humankind to aid in the attainment of radiant health are the Chinese tonic herbs, also known in Asia as the “Superior Herbs”.  The tonic herbs are the elite herbs of the Chinese herbal system, the most fully developed herbal system in the world.  The Chinese tonic herbs have always held a very special place in Asian culture. These very special natural substances have been associated with the highest qualities of living, and thus are associated with the ideals of long life, slow aging, glowing health, happiness, wisdom, physical vitality, adaptability, sexual vigor and response, mental acuity and clear intuition, love and compassion, and harmonious relations with Nature and with one's fellow human beings. By achieving these goals, one can be said to have attained true “radiant health.”

What distinguishes Chinese herbalism from other systems has been the attitude the Chinese and other Asian societies have taken toward health.  Putting the emphasis on promoting health, they have created a body of knowledge concerning the health-promoting tonic herbs that no other society or system has matched. Other healthcare systems have emphasized the remedial over the preventive.

The Traditional Three Treasures System of Healthcare

Jing, the First Treasure

The first “treasure” is known as Jing, which may be translated as regenerative essence, or simply as essence. Jing is fundamental to life. It is the deepest source of energy in the body and is associated with our genetics. Jing is also our long term energy and may be thought of as our reserves of life force. In Asia, Jing is associated with regeneration, longevity, youthfulness, deep long-term vitality, mental energy, the source of power for the reproductive system and for optimal functioning of the immune system. Jing energy also supports our skeletal system, renal functions and our ability to hear. Jing is believed to govern our courage and is the power behind our will.

Jing energy is depleted by living itself, but most especially by stress, excessive behavior, and overwork. Jing energy can be re-acquired and replenished through the consumption of certain rare herbs which contain this treasure.

Jing herbs are divided into two categories: Yin and Yang tonics. Sophisticated formulations have been developed over the centuries that build Yin and Yang energy and these are created by blending Yin herbs and Yang herbs in one's diet. The secret of rejuvenation and in maintaining our health lies in rebuilding the right balance of Yin and Yang

Yin herbs are deeply nourishing. They replenish spent Jing and build reserves that are stored in the body for future use. They are famed for their long term regenerative qualities. They are generally moistening and are believed to be youth preserving.  Yin herbs should be consumed by people who have depleted their yin reserves. Life itself depletes yin, and yin is constantly consumed as we grow older, until by middle age many people experience yin depletion. Besides aging, yin is also specifically depleted by stress, overwork, exhaustion, childbearing, excessive or chronic drug or medicine use, disease, excessive emotionalism and sexual excess. Those who are deficient in yin Jing tend to be chronically exhausted, and they tend to have dark rings under their eyes, backaches, weak kidney and reproductive functions, low resistance to infection, weak digestion and show signs of rapid aging, including dryness and wrinkling of the skin. Yin Jing herbs are capable of replenishing the treasure and building reserves for the future. Thus Yin Jing herbs are considered in Asia to be the cornerstone of rejuvenation and the foundation of longevity.

Yang herbs are deeply empowering. They rekindle the fire of life where it has been spent and invigorate vitality at the deepest levels. They are famed for their rejuvenating and deeply invigorating qualities. Yang herbs are used to build creative power, will power, sexual energy and athletic vigor. The result of consuming YangJing herbs is a renewed and sustainable youthfulness. However, Yang energy tends to be warm and invigoration and therefore requires Yin to maintain coolness and balance. Yang herbs should never be taken by a person suffering from Yin deficiency because the Yang herbs can further aggravate the situation by consuming the already deficient Yin Jing. If you wish to utilize Yang herbs, build up the Yin Jing first until all signs of Yin deficiency are eliminated. This may take some time, but regular consumption of powerful Yin Jing herbs will surely nurture the deep yin. Eventually Yang herbs can be consumed – and  that's when the real fun begins.

Some people may experience hot symptoms and dryness, and still be Yang deficient. It is possible to be both Yin and Yang deficient but to be more Yin deficient. This will result in what is known as “false fire,” where the person will experience heat, inflammation, low grade fevers, hot flashes, etc. These people will certainly need to consume a lot of Yin Jing herbs, but they may also need to consume a small amount of Yang Jing herbs if they also lack any power.

QI, the Second Treasure

The second treasure is known as Qi. Qi may be translated as vitality, though that term is an over-simplification. Qi is the energy of life that we acquire through breathing and eating and manifests as our day to day vitality. Qi tonics are also divided into two categories: Qi (Energy) tonics and Blood tonics. These Qi and Blood tonics are important in the maintenance of day-to-day health and vitality, our resistance to disease and our ability to cope with stress.

Qi tonics fortify the digestive, respiratory and immune functions and are necessary for true health. Qi tonics also help build muscle and develop muscular strength. Blood tonics help build blood and nourish all the tissues of the body.

It is said that “men are governed by Qi and women are governed by Blood. This means that men generally benefit by consuming more Qi tonics while women generally benefit by consuming more Xue tonics. This does not mean that men do not need Blood and women do not need Qi. It is simply a matter of natural balance. Everybody should consume some amount of Qi and Blood tonics regularly according to need.

SHEN, the Third Treasure

The third treasure is called Shen. Shen is the energy of consciousness and awareness.  Though there is no precise translation for Shen, it is often translated as Spirit. Shen is the vitality and stability of the mind and of the human spirit. A person with strong Shen is one who is calm and at peace, strong minded, aware, clear, centered, deeply intelligent and profoundly happy.

A person who is kind, generous and giving and who has a big heart is said to have a lot of Shen. Certain herbs have been found through the centuries to enhance this Shen energy. Shen tonics generally have a mild calming quality.  When combined into an herbal program that is taken daily, Shen tonic formulation will have profound effects on our state of mind and body.

Tonic herbs can be categorized as Jing (Yin and/or Yang), Qi (Qi and/or Blood) and Shen (opening and/or stabilizing) by virtue of which treasure(s) they tend to nourish and develop.

If Chinese herbalism sounds complex...IT IS!  Do not attempt to treat yourself with Chinese Herbs...

Your Life is Like a Candle

A simple, traditional analogy by which one can understand the Three Treasures concept is to think of life being like a candle.  The candle is you the oxygen is acupuncture which moves energy and fire is chinese herbs which create energy which can be moved by acupuncture.

If you are ready to explore radiant health give us a call at 847-577-4455 to schedule a free consultation as to how acupuncture and chinese herbs can enhance your health appearance and energy.

 

Have a healthy week!

Optimal health is an excellent New Years Resolution!

Arthritis is one of the most pervasive diseases in the United States and is the leading cause of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention one out of every three Americans (an estimated 70 million people) is affected.

For many people arthritis pain and inflammation cannot be avoided as the body ages. In fact, most people over the age of 50 show some signs of arthritis. Joints naturally degenerate over time. Fortunately, arthritis can often be managed with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis isn't just one disease; it's a complex disorder that comprises more than 100 distinct conditions and can affect people at any stage of life. Two of the most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While these two forms of arthritis have very different causes, risk factors, and effects on the body, they often share a common symptom—persistent joint pain.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in the United States, affecting an estimated 21 million adults. OA begins with the breakdown of joint cartilage, resulting in pain and stiffness.
OA commonly affects the joints of the fingers, knees, hips, and spine. Other joints affected less frequently include the wrists, elbows, shoulders, and ankles. When OA is found in a less frequently affected joint, there is usually a history of injury or unusual stress to that joint. Work-related repetitive injury and physical trauma may contribute to the development of OA. If you have a strenuous job that requires repetitive bending, kneeling, or squatting, for example, you may be at high risk for OA of the knee.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect many different joints and, in some people, other parts of the body as well, including the blood, the lungs, and the heart. Inflammation of the joint lining, called the synovium, can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, warmth, and redness. The affected joint may also lose its shape, resulting in loss of normal movement. RA can last a long time and can be a disease of flares (active symptoms) and remissions (few to no symptoms).

Diagnosis and Treatment of Arthritis with Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

According to Chinese medical theory, arthritis arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes blocked. This blockage is called, "bi" type pain and is widely studies and successfully treated using a combination of acupuncture and/or Chinese herbs.

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine have been found to be extremely effective at treating the pain and inflammation associated with all types of arthritis. The acupuncture points and herbs that are used depend on if the blockage of Qi (arthritis) is caused by the pathogen wind, cold, damp or damp-heat.
Traditional Chinese Medicine does not recognize arthritis as one particular syndrome. Instead, it aims to treat the specific symptoms that are unique to each individual using a variety of techniques such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, bodywork, lifestyle/dietary recommendations and energetic exercises to restore imbalances found in the body. Therefore, if 10 patients are treated with Oriental medicine for joint pain, each of these 10 patients will receive a unique, customized treatment with different acupuncture points, different herbs and different lifestyle and diet recommendations.

Your acupuncturist will examine you, take a look at the onset of your condition and learn your signs and symptoms to determine your Chinese diagnosis and choose the appropriate acupuncture points and treatment plan.

The Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture points to treat Arthritis are located all over the body, not just directly over the affected area. During the acupuncture treatment, tiny needles could be placed along your legs, arms, shoulders, and perhaps even your little toe!

There seems to be little sensitivity to the insertion of acupuncture needles. They are so thin that several acupuncture needles can go into the middle of a hypodermic needle. Occasionally, there is a brief moment of discomfort as the needle penetrates the skin, but once the needles are in place, most people relax and even fall asleep for the duration of the treatment.

The length, number and frequency of treatments will vary. Typical treatments last from five to 30 minutes, with the patient being treated one or two times a week. Some symptoms are relieved after the first treatment, while more severe or chronic ailments often require multiple treatments.

Chinese Herbs for Arthritis

There are many Chinese Herbal formulas that are commonly prescribed for arthritis. Your acupuncturist will examine you, take a look at the onset of your condition and learn your signs and symptoms to determine which herbal are best for you.

Studies on Acupuncture and Arthritis

Several studies have shown that acupuncture can help people with arthritis and related auto-immune diseases.

In one Scandinavian study 25 percent of arthritis patients who had been scheduled for knee surgery cancelled their operations after acupuncture treatment. In the study, researchers compared acupuncture with advice and exercise for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip. Thirty-two patients awaiting a total hip replacement were separated into 2 groups. One group received one 10-minute and five 25-minute sessions of acupuncture, and the other group received advice and hip exercises over a 6-week period.

Patients were assessed for pain and functional ability: Patients in the acupuncture group showed significant improvements, while no significant changes were reported in the group that received advice and exercise therapy. The results of this study indicate that acupuncture is more effective than advice and exercise for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip.

Another study at the University of Maryland showed that elderly arthritis patients with knee pain due to arthritis improved significantly when acupuncture was added to their treatment.

The randomized clinical trial, performed at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, determined whether acupuncture was a clinically safe and effective adjunctive therapy for older patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

The study addressed these questions:

1. Would the addition of acupuncture to conventional therapy produce an added measure of pain relief?
2. Would the effects of acupuncture last for 4 weeks following the end of treatment?
3. Would acupuncture have any side effects?

Seventy-three patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. One group received twice-weekly acupuncture treatments and conventional therapy for 8 weeks, and the other group received conventional therapy only. Patients who received acupuncture had significant pain relief and showed improvement in function. Those who did not receive acupuncture showed no significant change. No patients reported side effects from any acupuncture therapy session.

Safe Alternative to Medication

Even without the studies, the popularity of acupuncture for arthritis continues to grow because more and more people have found significant relief from Oriental Medicine without the negative side effects that come from Western pharmaceuticals.

Lifestyle and Dietary Instructions

Your diet plays a crucial role in helping you avoid or control arthritis. The first objective of a healthy diet is to help you lose weight if you are overweight. Being overweight can cause additional stress to your joints.

The second way a balanced, varied diet can help ease the pain of arthritis is by providing vitamins and minerals that keep your joints healthy and avoiding “damp” foods such as dairy products and greasy or spicy foods.

If you have arthritis or knee or hip pain, vitamins C and vitamin D can help prevent bone and cartilage destruction. And a multivitamin can help ensure that you always get the nutrition you need.

Here are some other healthy (and delicious) choices to include in your diet.

• Ginger - A natural anti-inflammatory, available as powdered extracts in capsules as well as alcohol-based extracts. Follow the dosing directions on the label. Or make tea by combining one-half teaspoon of grated ginger root with eight ounces of boiling water. Cover and steep for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain and add honey to taste.
  
   
• Fresh pineapple - Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, reduces inflammation. Be sure the pineapple is fresh, not canned or frozen.
  
   
• Cherries - Recent research has shown that tart cherries are an excellent source of nutrients that may help to reduce joint pain and inflammation related to arthritis.
  
   
• Fish - Cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep joints healthy as well as reduce pain and swelling. If you don't care for fish, consider supplementing your diet with fish oil capsules.
  
   
• Turmeric - Another natural anti-inflammatory. Look for an extract of whole turmeric, in health-food stores; follow the dosage directions on the label.  We recommend these productsCURCUMIN 97, ARTH-9 available at our store:

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine is an art and a science that takes years to master. Rheumatology in Chinese Medicine, 2002. By G. Guillaume & M. Chieu
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Formulas and Strategies, 1990. By Dan Bensky & Randall Barolet
Acupuncture: A Comprehensive Text By Shangha