Bamboo Wise

As we move deeper into the autumn season, and approach winter, many people are being plagued with chest colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments. There are some simple, effective, natural treatments that can be used along with some nutrition do’s and don’ts.


First, avoid foods that create mucus, and will only make your symptoms worse. This includes: cane sugar, high fructose corn syrup, milk products, and white flours in breads and pasta. Instead, eat green leafy vegetables such as: kale, cabbage, collards, or bok choy at least once a day. Make sure your plate is a plethora of color with a variety of veggies. Choose whole grains including: brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth, barley etc. Finally, drink carrot juice because it is good for the lungs, and don't forget Mom's homemade chicken soup.

The following is a list of homeopathic remedies that are safe and effective:

1. Oregano Oil- This is used as a natural antibiotic and is excellent for bronchitis, whooping cough, tuberculosis, pneumonia, anthrax, and a variety of other ailments. (Research from Georgetown University has shown that it is more effective than antibiotics for some “staph” infections.) It can be taken internally, and you can also use it as a vapor mist. As a vapor mist, boil 2 quarts of water, and allow it to set for a minute. Put in 3-6 drops of pure organic oil, and breathe the vapors. Repeat twice or 3 times daily. As an option, enclose a towel over your head and the bowl so that the vapors are contained.

2. Lotus Root Tea- Grate the lotus root (which can be found at most Asian markets 99 Ranch, Mitsuwa) and squeeze the pulp with a cheese cloth until you have ½ cup of lotus root juice. Add 2-3 drops of fresh ginger and ½ cup of water. Boil for a few minutes than drink. This is excellent for breaking up the mucus.


3. Put a rub on the chest, such as menthol. Look in your local health food store (Whole Foods, Mother's Market)
 
Eating a well balanced diet, resting, and the above remedies, should help you have a quicker recovery, and allow you to enjoy, instead of dread, the season.

     This year’s flu season has an added twist with all the notoriety the swine flu is receiving. Some people wonder how to prepare, and what to do to avoid the media sensationalized pandemic. There are some simple steps you can take to increase your immune system, and natural remedies that will ward off even the nastiest bugs.


     One of the best ways to increase your immune system is to regularly exercise. This doesn’t mean that you have to become a body builder at the gym. It can be as simple as taking a walk with a loved one, or as gentle as yoga stretches. Inactivity, on the other hand, lowers the immune system.

     Diet is also key in maintaining a healthy immune system. Eating organic whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables is the best way to stay healthy. You should look at your plate, and see the colors that adorn it. Your plate should be piled with a plethora of colors: green leafy vegetables, yellow succulent squashes, and bright orange carrots, just to name a few. If you see too many brown or beige colors, than you are missing some important vitamins, and need to start again. Also, choose whole grains instead of white flour products. Whole grains are rich in magnesium which is deficient in the “modern” diet. Stay away from processed, refined foods, especially cane sugar and high fructose corn syrup which lower your immune system. Part of maintaining a healthy diet is to drink fresh water, and get at least 20 minutes of fresh air and sunshine.

     Another important aspect is to maintain a peaceful environment. This would include surrounding yourself with supportive people. It would also mean having a daily routine of prayer and meditation.

     If you start to feel that you might be catching something, nature has provided us with a few remedies to fight the flu. The elderberry tree was referred to by the Indians as the musical tree. They used its branches to make their beautiful flutes. They also used the leaves as teas. It has been found that an extract, Elderberry Extract, is a safe and natural remedy for fighting the flu. Another remedy is oregano oil which was first used by the Greeks. The variety, Origanum Vulgare, should not to be confused with the oregano that is commonly used in cooking. Georgetown University has found in its studies that oregano oil is more effective in fighting some staph infections than pharmaceutical antibiotics. Its active ingredient, carvacol, is a natural compound that is said to fight viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungus. Another remedy with similar results is grapefruit seed extract. It was first discovered in 1972 by a physicist named, Dr. Jacob Harich. The seed and pulp of the grapefruit is dried and crushed into a fine powder and then dissolved into filtered water. The end of the process creates a broad spectrum antibacterial solution.

     Remember to eat healthy, exercise, and maintain a peaceful environment. These principles will not only help you avoid the flu this season, but also give you a better quality of life all year round.

Please note that this information is not meant to substitute for medical advice. Please consult with your doctor.