The diagnosis is a subjective, clinical one — meaning that there is no simple test for it. In 2005, the Centers for Disease Control estimated that 7.8% of children under 18 had been diagnosed at some point. More recent reports suggest that one in ten, that’s 5.4 million children have been diagnosed, representing a 22% increase in six years. While some behavior modification and/or counseling is always recommended, all too often the treatment western medicine applies is pharmaceutical, usually a stimulant such as a dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate drug. These medications appear to boost the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, but they only work for a short time and may have multiple side effects.

Many voices have expressed concerns for years about the implications of getting a young person started using stimulant drugs. Parents are often faced with very difficult decisions and have good reason to be wary about taking a chemical route to help their child focus and “behave” in school and other settings.

Doctors continue to study the possible causes and effects of the disorder, but too few are aware of the very effective and safe homeopathic remedies available to treat Attention Deficit Disorder as well as other learning and behavioral difficulties such as Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. These natural substances in extreme dilution help each child in a holistic way to re-balance for a lifetime of learning and maturing and engaging life at every level.

Check out our full article on this topic. It’s amazing what homeopathy can do!

Photo courtesy of ianthes

Would You Like To Let Go Of Stress?

Re-discover a calm place inside, at peace with your surroundings.

Did you know that acupuncture can help?

Twenty dollars, 2 acupuncture needles and 20 minutes of your time will

• Reduce stress,
• Alleviate nervous tension,
• Refresh your body, mind and spirit.

Lay down for 20 minutes in a comfortable, peaceful clinic environment. Close your eyes and rest while 2 painless needles ease you into a more relaxed state of being. Wake refreshed, happier and more in tune with life!

Call today to book  your twenty dollar, 20 minute, 2 needle acupuncture stress reduction treatment. You’ll be glad you did!

Melinda Leeson, DOM.  at Nature’s Own Wellness (941) 926-9082

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If you have osteoporosis and have been taking a bisphosphonate drug such as Fosamax® or Boniva® for an extended period of time, your doctor has likely suggested you take a medication holiday – for at least three years.

Do you know what do you do to prevent further bone loss and possible fractures in the meantime?

Chinese medicine has an effective and time-tested herbal answer. During this hiatus period, you can safely increase the vitality and strength of your bones by drinking Chinese Soup Broth To Make Healthy Bone™ every day.

Finding a safe and reliable strategy for preventing and correcting osteoporosis has become a critical health issue for all of us over the age of fifty. Research studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine have recently exposed a link between long-term use of Fosamax and unusual transverse fractures of the thigh bone, indicating that prolonged therapy with these drugs tends to weaken bone integrity rather than strengthening it. (1)

In April of this year, Dr. Pauline Camacho, from Loyola University Medical Center told Reuters Health that the current AACE (American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists ) guidelines recommend patients take a 3-year hiatus from bisphosphonate therapy after 4 or 5 years of treatment. (2)

Here in the West, there is no pharmaceutical alternative to bisphosphonate therapy other than the usual recommendations for mineral supplements such as Calcium citrate, Vit. D-3, Magnesium, Potassium, Boron, Vit K-2 and Strontium ranelate. Traditional Chinese medicine, however, has been helping people successfully deal with all aspects of aging for a few thousand years!

As an acupuncture physician with 11+ years of experience here in Sarasota, Florida, I offer safe and reliable methods to increase bone strength and vitality through diet, exercise and the above-mentioned Chinese Soup Broth To Make Healthy Bone™.

The herbal ingredients for the broth are supplied in convenient kitchen-ready packets accompanied by very simple cooking directions. You prepare it yourself. Each batch lasts 16 days and can be stored in your refrigerator or freezer until you need it. There are no side effects, and best of all, you can rely on this broth to maintain your bone health all through your golden years!

To read more about it, visit this page.

If you would like individualized holistic assistance with your osteoporosis, call me directly at (941) 926 9082 or visit my website: www.naturesownwellness.com for more information. I would be happy to help!

Melinda Leeson, DOM. at Nature’s Own Wellness

Dedicated to excellence in the practice of holistic medicine

Phone: (941) 926 9082

SOURCES:

(1)  Osteoporosis Drug Linked to Small Fracture Risk Over Long Term, by Daniel J. DeNoon from WebMD Health News http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/571840?src=rss

(2) A 3-Year Holiday From Bisphoshonates Appears Safe by Fran Lowry from Reuters Health

Information http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/741133

What happens when we eat foods that are low in nutritive value?
If we eat processed foods that are inherently low in nutritive Qi, our spleen and pancreatic Qi weakens and becomes sluggish. Symptoms of a weakened spleen/pancreas include lethargy, a slow metabolism, bloating, flatulence, loose stool, blood sugar fluctuations and inevitable weight gain.
If the foods we eat are high in refined sugars, corn syrups, preservatives, coloring agents and other chemicals, our liver becomes toxically overwhelmed, and fails to keep the flow of Qi and blood running smoothly throughout the body. Symptoms of a toxic liver can include food cravings and compulsive eating, irritability, moodiness, depression, indigestion, constipation, elevated cholesterol, tension headaches, irregular menstruation, premenstrual breast tenderness, hypertension, and more.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs  improve nutritive Qi and release excess fat:
Chinese medicine has a proven medical track record of addressing and treating all of these symptoms by balancing and restoring energy to the endocrine and digestive organs and stabilizing related nervous system issues. By addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of weight loss, Chinese medicine provides a comprehensive therapy that energizes your whole being, regulates your digestion and elimination, detoxifies accumulated cellular waste, helps you take control of your eating habits and rediscover an inner sense of peace. Treatments may include ear as well as body acupuncture, massage, breathing exercises, herbal formulas, nutritional supplements and lifestyle recommendations. This comprehensive holistic protocol encourages weight loss at about two pounds per week, and will ensure that you are able to keep it off over the long term.

The experience of having acupuncture is pleasant, relaxing and generally painless. The needles are hair thin, sterile and never used more than once. You may experience a brief electrical sensation when your Qi (internal bio-electrical energy) connects with the needle, followed by a feeling of deep relaxation as your body systems move back into balance with each other. Most patients report a marked reduction in appetite and cravings after just a few acupuncture sessions.

Chinese herbal formulas are used to expedite the weight loss process, support and strengthen the digestion and metabolism and restore harmony to mental and emotional activities that may have previously sabotaged efforts to lose weight. When correctly prescribed, Chinese herbal formulas rarely cause unwarranted side-effects and are safe to use with children as well as the elderly.

If you would like individualized holistic assistance with your weight loss goals, call me directly at (941) 926 9082 or visit my website for more information. I would be happy to help!

When I got my Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy, my vet suggested a raw meat and bones diet for him. He told me to add an equal portion of blended raw vegetables to each meal in order to provide essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to his diet. Just to be sure he would eat this colorful gloop, I taste tested every batch. Yummm! I also noticed an increase in energy almost immediately after every personal sampling, better than a cup of coffee. I was hooked.

Later, I was introduced to the work of Dr. Tom Wu, a naturopathic doctor who works extensively with fresh raw food smoothies to correct chemical and hormonal imbalances in his human patients, many of whom have experienced dramatic improvements in their health.

As an acupuncture and homeopathic physician, I now have the privilege of introducing these concepts to my own patients, and I have a few converts who request new recipes on a regular basis.
As such, I thought I’d better write them down for you. Enjoy! This is the perfect way to get your family to drink to their health!

Healthy Green Drink to Revive Your Energy and Brighten Your Day!
Ingredients: (All fresh 80% vegetable/20% fruit ingredients)

Makes five 8 oz. servings

1 1/2 cups spinach – washed and chopped
1 1/2 cups kale – washed and chopped
2 sprigs basil
2 stems parsley
1 cup cucumber- chopped with peel on
1 stalk of celery – chopped
1 mango – peeled and cut into pieces *1
1/2 banana – peeled
1 kiwi – cut up with peel on
10 raw almonds
1 tblsp. crushed hemp seed
1 cup water room temperature *2 (more or less for desired consistency)

Combine all ingredients in a blender*3 and blend 3-4 minutes on high until consistency is smooth. Pour into glasses and serve once a day for several months as a part of a complete healing program. Look for more recipes in the future to add variety to your experience of healthy eating!

Footnotes:
*1 – When mango, spinach and kale are combined in a smoothie, the body’s ability to absorb their antioxidants, particularly lutein and xanthein, TRIPLES! When blended together, these nutrients reduce the risk of cataracts and lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration. The natural phytonutrients in these vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds correct dietary deficiencies and help your body defend itself against many cancers and chronic degenerative diseases.
*2 – Cold drinks will lower the temperature of your stomach, preventing it from quickly processing the nutrients in the smoothie. Room temperature or warm is always healthier.
*3 – A 3 horsepower blender will grind the skin and seeds to a fine level, thereby freeing the natural phytonutrients locked into the fibers of the vegetables and fruits. This is important for proper digestion. Juicers wastes these important anti-aging and immune rejuvenating nutrients.

Note: If you are allergic to any of the ingredients, you must eliminate them and substitute other fruits or vegetables that are in harmony with your immune system.

Resources:
Tom Wu, N.M.D, Ph.D Wellness Selfcare Center, in San Carlos, CA. Email: drwu2000@msn.com

Okay Doc, You Made Me Give Up All My Favorite Foods, So Now Tell Me What Can I Eat That I’ll Enjoy?

I gave up sweets, sodas, flour products and packaged food. I eat mostly fresh foods and avoid dairy, except for an occasional pomegranate ice cream bar, but I still have weight issues and serious arthritis. When I go to the grocery store, I don’t know which foods to buy or recipes to make that will help me conquer my health challenges. As a physician, I’m supposed to know these answers for my patients as well.

After much research, I’ve concluded that a one-size-fits-all diet plan isn’t going to work for my patient population or me. The vegetables and fruits strategy adopted by my friend Jane makes me feel starved, anxious and light headed. I feel better when I eat lots of protein and veggies with only minimal starches. So what gives?

According to nutritionists William Wolcott, and Joe Mercola, each individual has a distinct way of burning the fuel he/she consumes. They assigned a “metabolic type” to describe three general categories of difference ranging from “protein types” to “carbohydrate types.” According to their theory, as our types differ, so should our diets. I’m a protein type. Jane is a carbo type.

The rewarding aspect of this discovery was the wealth of food combining information I found on Joe Mercola’s website in particular. He also provides recipes for each metabolic type. Very handy!
Some of his ideas don’t work for me. For example, I can’t eat fruit with or after a meal without causing extreme fermentation (very flatulent results).

I would suggest the following precautions: 1) find a physician well versed in nutrition to assist you with your health issues. A proper evaluation of blood, saliva and urine tests may further define what food combinations will work for you. 2) Try a recipe or two and keep a journal of how you feel afterward. If high purine proteins like liver or beef make you feel sluggish, eat more low purine fish. No matter how carefully we listen to our bodies, it’s still a matter of trial and error and maintaining an explorer’s attitude. 3) Read more about it. The only diet that is right for you is the one that you discover and experience for yourself!

References:
• Wolcott W, Fahey T. The Metabolic Typing Diet. Broadway Books, New York. 2000. http://www.metabolictyping.com/
• Joe Mercola, D.C. http://www.mercola.com/nutritionplan/index.htm

Special Note:
Statements made in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Dietary recommendations are the results of my personal clinical research and experience. Remember, always consult with your doctor before undertaking a new nutritional approach. Be safe.

© Copyright 2010 Melinda Leeson, P.A. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, for personal use only in a not-for-profit format. Copying any portions of this article for publication, either print or electronic, is not permitted without prior written permission from Melinda Leeson, P.A.

The fresh vegetables and fruits arranged along the outer walls of your supermarket contain high levels of phytochemicals that appear to protect human health in a way that processed and cooked foods cannot. Phytochemicals such as carotenoids, flavonoids, isothiocyanates and indoles are chemical nutrients found in fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, raw grains and nuts. They are mostly found in the seeds, stems and skin. The “fresh”aspect is as important as the particular set of nutrients found in each plant. As long as the plant is alive, it contains enzymes that help consumers digest and utilize the phytochemicals in
the plant.

The Power of Raw Vegetable and Fruit Smoothies

While there is no established scientific proof, modern clinical research suggests that fruit and vegetable consumption lowers the risk for chronic diseases including specific cancers, heart disease and diabetes. In my experience, raw blended vegetable and fruit “smoothies” provide the most bioavailable nutritional method for disease prevention and health maintenance. A high powered blender easily extracts the phytochemicals contained in the stems, skin, seeds and fiber of selected raw vegetables and fruits, making them readily available to cellular detoxification and repair mechanisms in the body. Research here in the West confirms what the traditional Chinese physicians have known for two thousand years. Certain foods have an affinity with particular organs in the body and have the capacity to stimulate healing in those organ systems. Cantaloupe, for example, is a great source of carotenoids that appear to reduce the risk of lung cancer. Kale, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower, broccoli and brussel sprouts are widely considered to be the healthiest raw smoothie choices in cancer prevention. This vegetable group contains high amounts of phytochemicals known as indole-3-Carbinols and appear to have the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells in the lung, breast, liver, uterine lining, cervix, prostate and colon tissue.
The following smoothie is specifically designed to assist recovery from or prevent a recurrence of cancer. I created it after studying the nutritional smoothie techniques published by Dr. Tom Wu N.M.D. and Janet Wu Ph.D. The cruciferous vegetables in the recipe make the taste slightly bitter, so it took some experimentation to come up with precise ingredient combinations and amounts that would achieve a therapeutic effect and still taste good. Enjoy!

CANCER INHIBITING SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:
2 cups distilled water
(3 cups total for a more liquid consistency)
1 broccoli stem and floweret
1/4 red cabbage
(cut downward through stem including 1/4 of the white base)
1 ear fresh corn cut from the cob
2 carrots with green tops
1/2 red beet
10 raw unsalted almonds
(brazil nuts can be substituted if desired)
1 lime including the white fuzz and seeds
(carefully peel away only the green outer skin)
1/2 fresh banana
1 kiwi including the peel
2 tsp. local bee pollen
2 tsp hemp seed
1 tsp. chia seed
1 tsp. organic Amazing Grass Green Superfood® powder
(available at www.amazinggrass.com)
1 tsp. organic spirulina powder
(Spirulina pacifica available at www.nutrex-hawaii.com)
1” sliced fresh ginger root

Equipment:

• You’ll need a very powerful 3 horsepower blender to extract the phytochemicals contained in the stems, skin, seeds and fiber of the raw fruits and vegetables in this smoothie recipe. I use a “Champ HP3”. It makes up to 5 cups fully loaded. (Juicers are not an appropriate substitute).
• Spatula
• 2 – 20 oz. containers with lids

Directions:
Cut up the vegetables and fruits indicated in the recipe into small pieces. Load the ingredients by weight, placing the lightest ingredients on the bottom and the heaviest at the top. Pour water over the top and cover tightly.

Blender Operation: Depending on the type of blender you have (mine is a “Champ HP3”)
Pulse (press “P”) approximately 20 seconds to get the blades engaged with the ingredients in a smooth manner. Continue blending by pressing the highest speed control on your blender for two cycles at full power. (total 2 minutes) Always place your hand on top of the lid while blending in order to prevent centrifugal force from loosening the bearings. When finished, the smoothie will be warm (101–108º F) and the texture smooth and fluid.

Serving and Storage:
Spatula the entire contents into 2 – 20 oz. containers. Drink one cup and refrigerate the remainder. With a tight lid, refrigerated smoothie will retain its nutritional power for approximately 48 hours. Slightly warm each serving in a saucepan before consuming. Do not drink it cold. The recommended serving size is two cups/day.

If you would like an appointment to learn about other nutritional therapies to prevent or assist recovery from cancer or other diseases, please give me a call at the clinic. I would be happy to help.

Yours in health,
Melinda Leeson, DOM. (Doctor of Oriental Medicine), HMC (homeopathic physician)
Nature’s Own Wellness
7029 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite A. Sarasota, FL 34231 Telephone: (941) 926-9082

Special Note:
Statements made in this blog have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Product and recipe recommendations are the results of my personal clinical research and experience. Remember, always consult with your doctor before undertaking a new nutritional approach. Be safe.

© Copyright 2010 Melinda Leeson, P.A.. All Rights Reserved. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, for personal use only in a not-for-profit format. Copying any portions of this article for publication, either print or electronic, is not permitted without prior written permission from Melinda Leeson, P.A.

Moderate your diet and exercise plan:
At the same time, many people adopt diet plans that severely restrict caloric intake; and they start strenuous exercise programs in order to lose those extra pounds gained since Thanksgiving. Unless these measures are carefully planned and modulated to the body’s current depleted state, hyperactivity in the digestive and hormonal systems will exhaust all remaining energy reserves, leaving us vulnerable to invasion by pathogenic factors.

The most basic plan might look like this. Eat a varied diet containing fresh vegetables, fruits, foods rich in fatty acids, good quality proteins and plenty of water to restore energy reserves. Avoid sugary or processed foods. Add a moderate daily exercise routine that will burn fuel efficiently and promote some weight reduction. Make sure you get enough quality sleep, so that any tissue damage incurred during the day has the opportunity to be repaired while you rest.

Make strengthening your immune system a top priority:
The probability of contracting a viral infection, whether, cold or pandemic related, is primarily influenced by the strength of our immune system. In it’s simplest form, this “is the system of biological structures and processes in the body that protects against disease by identifying and killing pathogens and tumor cells. ” (Wikipedia.org)
I like to think of it as my ‘Pentagon’, the organ group that coordinates and regulates all the armed forces, CIA and Homeland Security for my body. Its primary strengths are vigilance and adaptation. As such, it absorbs data about my internal and external environment, assesses the level of threat, communicates key issues to its operating partners in order to formulate a strategy, and then initiates a series of defensive maneuvers in those areas of my body that are at risk.
All of the personnel in my Pentagon as well as the equipment they use have to be paid for in order to work on my behalf. The decision makers as well as the foot solders and their weapons require the right amounts and types of nutrients for each level of responsibility and job assignment. Vitamins, minerals, certain adaptogenic substances and a Chinese herbal formula called BING DE LING® added to my diet plan act as ‘wages’ for all my Pentagon ‘employees’.

DAILY ADVANTAGE® and PROBIOTIC ADVANTAGE®

After much research, I found and like a vitamin/mineral supplement called DAILY ADVANTAGE®, formulated by Dr. David Williams of Mountain Home Nutritionals. (www.drdavidwilliams.com) One or two packets a day supply essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, select phytonutrients, superfoods and an Omega-3 complex of EPA and DHA fatty acids.

I also take his PROBIOTIC ADVANTAGE® every day. Dr. Williams’ ten strains of beneficial bacteria not only keep my digestive tract healthy but also support increased production of white blood cells. Did you know that 70 per cent of our immune system is located within the GI tract, predominantly in Peyer_s Patches lining the gut with immune tissue? These defense sentinels constantly sift the intestinal contents for immune messages. Taking probiotics is like having your own armed forces recruitment station inside your intestinal tract!

SPECIAL IMMUNE ENHANCING FORMULAS
The top recommended nutrients to fight colds and flu have traditionally been Vitamins C, D, Zinc, Turmeric Root and Selenium(1). Although Dr. William’s DAILY ADVANTAGE® contains generous yet safe amounts of these immune enhancing substances; I like to add three additional supplements to my regime when colds and flu are active in my area, or when I’m traveling. It’s like paying bonus wages to my hardest working Pentagon staff and employees.

I dissolve a packet of Alacer’s Emergen-C IMMUNE DEFENSE® (www.emergenc.com) into a glass of water once or twice daily when my waiting room is full of sniffles and hacking coughs. It contains additional powdered nutrients, antioxidants and minerals, including 1,000 mg of vitamin C, enhanced zinc, A and D vitamins, and extracts of hibiscus and elderberry. Hibiscus(2) and Elderberry(3) contain powerful anti oxidants that wake up overtired officers in my Pentagon.

I also add an additional 1000 IU of liquid Vit. D into my Emergen-C IMMUNE DEFENSE®, drink. It coordinates battlefield information in the war zone, kind of like a colonel at field headquarters, advising his soldiers what to do next. I use Carlson D Drops 1000. (www.ddrops.ca/)

My favorite Chinese herbal formula for strengthening the immune system during cold and flu season is BING DE LING®. It is the creation of Dr. Ruan Jin Zhao, president of AnFaLa, Inc. The herbs in his BING DE LING ® strengthen both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, enhancing the production of antibodies. In my Pentagon model, this would be similar to placing CIA operatives in appropriate defensive locations where they can identify and neutralize foreign agents as they invade the body. BING DE LING® also informs and arms various types of T-cells who might be likened to Marine combat units in the field. Lastly, it supports the body’s immunological memory so that the Pentagon officers may later ward off infections they have seen before.
The great strength of BING DE LING® however, is its simultaneous capacity to directly nourish and inform the organs in charge of all Pentagon activity. These organs, the Liver, Spleen and Lung act as directors and advisors to the chief of my body ‘country’. They are ultimately responsible for all the actions taken by my Pentagon officers and soldiers, thus ensuring my ability to survive and flourish. (For more information, visit http://AnFaLa.com BING DE LING® must be prescribed for you by a licensed acupuncture physician).

That’s the plan I employ every day. My patients who use it have similar healthy and satisfied results; and best of all, we don’t need to take “sick days” from work or family fun! Any sensible extra wages you pay to your own body increases health and vitality. Each person may have slightly different immune defense requirements. If you have any questions, or need some help formulating a plan that works for you, please give the clinic a call. I would be happy to help you.

Yours in health,

Melinda Leeson, DOM

Footnotes:

(1) VITAMIN C fights infections and facilitates healing. Appears to replace rapidly depleting ascorbate in leucocytes as they fight infection, as if rearming them, allowing them to continue fighting. This reduces the severity of symptoms experienced. A safe and moderate adult dose after exposure to pathogens is 2,000 mg to 5,000 mg. daily as tolerated.
VITAMIN D primes the immune system to fight pathogens, but also puts the brakes on out-of-control immune responses. It boosts the body’s production of antimicrobial peptides, a class of proteins that quickly destroys the cell walls of bacteria, viruses (including influenza) and fungi. These peptides also keep the lungs free from infection. Best of all, while vitamin D is destroying the viruses causing the flu, it’s performing another life-saving function at the same time by preventing the immune system from producing a dangerous amount of inflammatory chemicals (cytokines) that attack sensitive respiratory membranes. In severe cases of the flu, this inflammation can destroy the normal cell lining of the respiratory tract. An upper limit of 2,000 IU/day has recently been recommended for infants, children, and adolescents. The upper limit for adult intake of vitamin D has now been raised to 10,000 IU/day. (Alternatives Oct. 2008 ISSN# 0893-5025 Mountain Home publishing www.drdavidwilliams.com.)
ZINC Among other things, zinc enhances immune function and facilitates wound healing. 50 mg/day is a moderate safe dose for adults.
TURMERIC ROOT has been used for centuries in India and China for a variety of health concerns, including boosting the immune system. 200 mg./day is considered a moderate safe adult dose.
SELENIUM influences both the innate “nonadaptive” and the acquired, “adaptive” immune systems. providing barriers to infection and assisting the maturation of both T and B lymphocytes. Researchers at the University of North Carolina found that selenium can actually keep a virus that has entered a cell from oxidizing and mutating into a more dangerous and virulent form. 200 mcg/day is considered a moderate safe adult dose. (Alternatives Special Report 2006 by Dr. David Williams, p. 4)

(2) HIBISCUS flower is rich is vitamin C and antioxidants (anthocyanins) that stimulate the humoral and cell mediated activities of the immune system, slow the growth of precancerous cells, support the management of cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. 100-200 mg/day is considered a moderate and safe adult dose. (John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. 2008 www.wileyinterscience.com/)

(3) ELDERBERRY contains adaptogenic phytonutrients that act as anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, waking up the immune system, increasing production of disease fighting soldiers called lymphocytes, reducing aches, pain and fever. Active ingredients in the berries also bind with viruses before they have a chance to penetrate normal cell walls. 50 mg/day is a moderate safe adult dose. (See laboratory research on elderberries by Dr. Madelaine Mumcuoglu. Infect Dis April 26-30, 1994; Prague, Abstract #1271, 392)

Dear Friends and Patients,

In Mexico, earlier this spring, lung symptoms predominated in the flu cases seen by homeopathic doctors. At that time, Aconite, Belladonna, Bryonia, Arsenicum album or iodatum, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Mercurius vivus and Gelsemium proved most useful. In other parts of the world, gastrointestinal symptoms, e.g. nausea and vomiting, have been pronounced. Considering this, Baptisia tinctoria, Arsenicum album, Ipecac or Nux vomica may provide more individualized treatment in the current scenario.

It appears that the 2009 H1N1 flu resembles the 1918 Flu Pandemic. If true, we need to be very cautious with regard to the possibility of serious complications, especially with weak, pregnant or previously ill individuals. In 1918, many people were suddenly stricken and within hours were too weak to walk. Many died the next day. The most serious symptoms at that time included a blue tint to the face and coughing up blood. In some cases, the virus caused an uncontrollable hemorrhagic pneumonia. In other cases, the virus caused diarrhea that was so severe the patient died from loss of blood and body fluids. If such hemorrhagic symptoms presented themselves in the current pandemic, homeopathic remedies to consider might be Arsenicum album, Baptisia tinctoria, Phosphorus, Cuprum metallicum, Camphora, Lachesis trigonocephalus, Veratrum album, Ipecac or Carbo vegetabilis.

For more moderate flu symptoms, renowned homeopath, Louis Klein, offers Dulcamara as a valuable remedy to consider. Vega Rosenberg adds Stannum metallicum, Eucalyptus globulus, Kali carbonicum, Causticum, Psorinum and Positronium. The National Center for Homeopathy adds Euphrasia, Pyrogen and Rhus-toxicodendron as important remedies in the treatment of influenza.
The following list outlines the most frequently reported homeopathic remedies for Influenza as well as the symptoms associated with each remedy. They are available from Boiron in a 30c potency at your local health food store.

ACONITUM: early stage
Symptoms appear suddenly and harshly
Onset of symptoms after exposure to cold
Fear will die because of the disease
High fever, red congested face
Much sneezing with pain at the root of the nose
Watery nasal discharge
Muscle aches and pains
Dry mucous membranes
Worse: evening, night, touch
Better: fresh air, rest
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Sore, red throat
Pharynx and tonsils bright red
Burning, mildly swollen
Painful swallowing
No pus
Dry croup cough, maybe hoarse voice
Intense thirst for cold drinks
Worse: talking and deep breathing
Better: lying on back

BELLADONNA: early stage
Symptoms appear suddenly
Red, glistening, teary eyes
Red flushed face
High fever greater than 102ºF
Severe headache with violent pulsations
Worse: any light or noise
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS: No 1 for Acute throat inflammation
Cough with throbbing pain
Swollen glands
Dry burning heat
Burning pain extends to right ear when swallowing
Neck tender to touch
Worse: swallowing, talking, cold air, touch
Better: sitting up in bed

BAPTISIA: Sudden Onset
High fever, Listless, PROSTRATED, indifferent
Profuse sweating
Dull red face
INTENSE THIRST
Parts rested upon feel sore & bruised
GASTRIC SYMPTOMS:
Offensive diarrhea and vomiting

ARSENICUM ALBUM:
Agitated, anxious or fearful patient
Sure he will die. Does not want to be alone
Thirsty, but only drinks small sips frequently
Prostrated, tired, exhausted
Widespread COLD, feels CHILLY
Not improved by much covering
Burning, watery, nasal discharge
Alternating with dryness or blockage.
Frequent sneezing without relief
Nostrils become sore & red.
Worse: change of temperature, cold, damp, and after midnight.
Better: heat and warm applications, (except headache) hot drinks
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Begins with arduous throat pain
Better consuming hot drinks
Cough after drinking
GASTRIC SYMPTOMS:
Diarrhea after eating or Drinking
Nausea on seeing or Smelling food
Violent vomiting & frequent but scanty diarrhea.
Burning evacuation

BRYONIA ALBA: Slower onset
Begins with sudden head pains
FEVER with chills
ACHES ALL OVER
Intense back & leg pain,
EXTREME THIRST for large amounts of cold drinks infrequently
DRYNESS of mucous membranes
Worse: ANY MOVEMENT, deep breathing,
Better: rest, fresh air, & applying PRESSURE to the painful part.
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Infection in the nose may spread rapidly to the chest.
Red throat, Dry hacking cough in evening without sputum
Spasmodic cough shaking whole body causing pain in head & abdomen
Dry air passages with THIRST
Wants to be very still and left alone

IPECAC:
Pain felt in the bones
NO THIRST
Worse: night, deep inspiration, esp. in a.m. while lying in bed, warm room.
Better: after expectoration and cold drinks.
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Broncho-pneumonia signs
Totally dry paroxysmal cough causes choking, gagging or vomiting. GASTRIC SYMPTOMS:
Pronounced nausea

EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM:
FEVER that starts with chills, followed by heat & sweating.
SHIVERING & shaking
Congested face during fever
Continued fever, with intense & insatiable THIRST for cold drinks
INTENSE ACHING OF BONES & back pain as if it were broken or dislocated. Sweating improves symptoms except the headache which is bursting with sore eyeballs.
Worse: movement, cold, open air.
Better: resting, warmth, sweating.
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Painful cough, aggravates the chest when coughing

GELSEMIUM: usually gradual onset
Fever alternating with chills
Shivers & chills run up & down the spine. Feels chilly esp. in back
NO THIRST
Face congestion, injected eyes
Profuse perspiration or no sweating
Hands/limbs tremble
Dull, dizzy, drowsy, “benumbed,” downcast, depressed
Little thirst
Sneezing
Intense muscle aches, with leg pain, feels heavy & weak
Eyes/head heavy,
Double vision
Remains immobile in bed
Rapid pulse
Worse: cold damp weather
Better: after urination, open air.
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Sore throat
Dry cough

MERCURIUS VIVUS:
Begins with hoarseness & aphony. Cold ascends to eyes.
Yellow/green catarrh, running nose.
Nose is swollen shiny, sore
Fever with night sweats that do not improve
INTENSE THIRST, CONSTANT HUNGER
Indented tongue.
Halitosis.
Bone pain.
Very wary.
THROAT & CHEST SYMPTOMS:
Sore ulcerated throat, as if it were raw meat with raw burning pains or splinter-
like pains that shoot into the ear or neck on swallowing.
Dry cough, spasmodic
Offensive breath with profuse saliva esp. at night.
Swollen glands
Worse: night, swallowing, heat or cold
Better: moderate temperature

NUX VOMICA:
Extreme CHILLINESS. Just cannot get warm.
Nasal congestion worse at night
Runny nose during the day, or much sneezing alternating with blocked nose, blockage alternates sides.
Aching teeth, limbs & back
Thirsty for warm drinks
Irritable
Worse: early morning, eating, cold air
Better: heat, laying down, sleep Raw or sore throat
GASTRIC SYMPTOMS:
Maybe nausea with cramps and painful vomiting or ineffectual attempts to vomit
Maybe diarrhea with cramps and painful voiding, possible ineffectual urges to stool

ADDENDUM: Homeopathic remedies are prepared from natural sources in micro-doses and are recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration. They are also non-toxic and, when properly administered, can be used safely with infants, children and adults. However, each individual’s health is precious. Prescribing a homeopathic remedy requires strict individualization. Please consult a professional homeopath before taking any homeopathic remedy for Swine Flu / Influenza.

I hope this information is helpful to you. If you are having trouble discerning which remedy would help your situation, give us a call and we can set up a telephone apt. for you. In the meantime, be well. I will be putting more information on preventative measures and immune boosting natural supplements in my next blog. See you then!

Yours in health,

Melinda Leeson, AP., DOM.

RESOURCES:
• Dr. José Matuk and Dr. Corrado Bruno: Liga Medicorum Homeopathica Internationalis H1N1 Flu 2009
The Mexico City homeopathic doctors` 2009 Mexican complete report: http://www.hpathy.com/papersnew/gal…
The above paper contains a complete list of the remedies used in Mexico earlier this year.
It also publishes a more comprehensive list of remedies to treat hemorrhagic influenza.
• Luia J.B. Galicia, Dr. Oscar A. L. Garcia, Dr. Emmanuel P. Lorenzo, Dr. Fernando D. F. Flores: Observations of Mexican Flu 2009: http://www.hpathy.com/papersnew/gal…
• Important for Swine Flu Epidemic: Homeopathy Successfully Treated Flu Epidemic of 1918 http://www.naturalnews.com/026148.html
• Louis Klein: http://luminoshomeopathy.wordpress.com/
• Vega Rosenberg: http://www.achieveradio.com/universal-affluence/
• Paul Herscu: http://www.hersculaboratoryflu.org/

Dear friends and patients,

Many of you have asked for more information about holistic preventative techniques and treatments for the current H1N1 influenza epidemic. I have a lot of research and helpful information to share with you, so much so that I’m going to break it down thematically into short daily blogs. This first blog will cover the most basic homeopathic treatments available for you from almost any homeopathic pharmacy.

Much has been written and or televised about where the flu is appearing and who has been affected, but little information is available for those of you who 1) would prefer to use homeopathic preventative methods, and 2) for those who have already contracted the flu and wish to treat it homeopathically.

First of all, it is worth noting that for some individuals, the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus can produce serious pathology, especially in previously weakened patients or in pregnant women. Concurrent to using homeopathy and natural over the counter products, please see a licensed health care practitioner in your local area for diagnosis, treatment and reporting.

Richard Moskowitz M.D. has given permission to fellow homeopaths to reprint the following excellent “Swine Flu Advisory” for all who wish to learn more.

“It is in no sense a plea or recommendation to choose homeopathic treatment in lieu of standard public health measures or effective vaccines if and when they become available. It is intended solely to inform the public and the medical community about a simple method for the prevention and treatment of epidemic influenza that they may not be aware of, that is safe and inexpensive, and that has repeatedly proved its worth in the past. It calls for a modest three-tiered strategy that is well within the capability of any region or locality acting on its own, without any need for Federal assistance or the quota of unwanted surveillance and red tape that usually come with it.

Level 1. Prevention in Advance of the Outbreak.

The first level is prevention in advance of the outbreak, or in its earliest stages, when the first documented or reported cases appear in the vicinity. If the specific vaccine is not yet available in sufficient quantity, either of two homeopathic medicines may offer a good measure of protection for a period of weeks and months, and may be taken with perfect safety by anyone. The first is Influenzinum, the homeopathic “nosode” or medicine prepared from the virus itself, and may be taken in the 30C or 30th centesimal dilution, somewhat as follows: 3 doses within a 24-hour period (waking, bedtime, waking), repeated weekly until the outbreak passes. Although the mutability of the virus limits the effectiveness of specific vaccines prepared from any previous strain, this homeopathic nosode made from the deadly 1918 virus has had an excellent track record in the regular annual epidemics since then.

Another proven choice would be the homeopathic medicine prepared from duck heart and liver, because the remedy has less to do with the microbiology of the virus than the reaction of its animal host to it. It is available OTC from several different manufacturers, under a variety of trade names, such as Oscillococcinum (Boiron Labs), and may be taken in the 200C dilution, on roughly the same schedule as the nosode. It too has proven highly effective in preventing influenza if begun at or before the time of exposure, and also works quite well for incipient cases if given early enough.

Level 2. Preventive Treatment in the Early Stages of Illness.

Once the disease has broken out in the vicinity, homeopathic physicians are trained to examine each case individually, and to prescribe the one medicine that corresponds most closely to the unique symptom-picture of the patient as a whole. In an epidemic, where the illness tends to look quite similar in most people, after 15 or 20 cases are treated in this individualized manner, one medicine will emerge as having been extremely beneficial to about 75% of the cases, not only in alleviating the intensity of the symptoms, but also in speeding the recovery, and thus shortening the course of the disease.

Three medicines that have been used successfully and repeatedly in this way for past outbreaks are Gelsemium sempervirens (yellow jasmine); Bryonia alba (white bryony); and Eupatorium perfoliatum, or boneset, although the list of possibilities is much longer. Known as the the one that proves most suitable becomes in effect the specific remedy for the outbreak as a whole, and may be given out prophylactically to everyone at the time of exposure, or even beforehand, when the disease is nearby. It will also do excellent service in treating early or incipient cases.

Level 3. Individualized Treatment of Advanced or Complicated Cases.

For the remaining 25% or so of the cases, who do not simply “receive” and copy the standard picture, and thus do not respond as well to the genus epidemicus, but go on to develop a more elaborate and sometimes more intense pattern of their own, other equally beneficial medicines will be identifiable by a trained homeopath, based on further individualization of the total symptom-picture, as above. Clinical experience has shown that about 15% of these cases correspond closely to a second remedy, which must also be determined uniquely for the outbreak, while the remaining 10% exhibit more idiosyncratic symptom response-patterns that call for a variety of other medicines. Some of the most severe or complicated cases may of course require hospitalization and conventional treatment as well.

Long experience with epidemics of smallpox, cholera, scarlet fever, typhus, and other such diseases at a time when vaccines and antibiotics were not yet available has shown this simple method to be highly effective in mitigating their severity and duration, both by treating the people who are already sick, and by preventing their spread to and lessening their impact on others in their path. It is inexpensive and totally safe, involving the use of simple home remedies that are available to anyone without a prescription, thus allowing the physician to focus on the more advanced and complicated cases. As part of the overall public health strategy, the homeopathic approach could be of great benefit, especially where and when conventional vaccines and medications are ineffective or unavailable.”
Richard Moskowitz, M.D. Spring 2009

For more information on other holistic flu prevention measures, please visit our blog again in a few days. I will also be adding more information about the homeopathic remedies mentioned in this article that were successfully used during the Mexican H1N1 flu epidemic earlier this year.
Yours in health,

Melinda Leeson, AP., DOM.