Living With Nature’s Rhythms...one season at a time.

The Energetics Of Herbs in Skincare

There are so many reasons I love being 52, but age spots and red patchy skin aren’t up there on the list of my favourite things. So if they decide to start vanishing, after giving my skin a daily treat of herbal medicine that’s been valued for it’s healing properties for centuries, and grown lovingly somewhere akin to paradise, and at the same time helping to relax and unwind my nervous system, then why wouldn’t I?

Most of us can grow some herbs at home, and amongst the easiest are Rosemary, Comfrey and Calendula.

If you’re not quite there with the whole garden goddess thing, then have a look at The Herb Farm Skincare range from New Zealand, now available to us in Australia.

Since 1993 they’ve been taking the hard work out of enjoying these ancient medicinal herbs at home. Not only are TheHerb Farm Skincare delicious products available internationally, but they’re formulated in a way that suits the modern woman’s skin – her spirit or #Shen as it’s referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine. And goodness knows our mostly dry Aussie skin could use a drink, and some nurturing.

The Herb Farm Skincare uses these healing herbs in their skincare for the same reason our foremothers did – for radiant and dewy skin thats reflects our overall wellbeing.

To enjoy a 15% Janella discount on your The Herb Farm Skincare order, use this code JANELLA15 and watch your skin take a deep sigh of relief, and a big drink.

Why have we used these particular herbs in skincare for centuries…

Rosemary is known to increase circulation thanks to its slightly warming nature that contains a chemical known as carnosol, and is a major contributor to rosemary’s incredible antioxidant action. Carnosol has additionally been found to be anti-inflammatory. Rosemary is used effectively to lighten dark spots and blemishes on the skin resulting in an enviable skin tone and a glowing complexion. And…these properties of rosemary help protect our skin and prevent signs of premature ageing by reducing both swelling and puffiness of the skin.

Comfrey is a cool and moist herb usually found growing by lakes or in swampy areas. It has the highest mucilage (gooey) content of any herb, so it is a very moistening, incredibly soothing, calming, and healing herb. Ideal for healing acne, chapped, damaged, and irritated skin. It has long been valued on an energetic level as it ‘heals wounds so deep that it has a profound effect on the soul’s journey’. Used for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative purposes, it activates the healing process after environmental damage. Comfrey is ideal for dry skin, (and the compost bin too).

Calendula is a cooling herb, ruled by the sun, with a great affinity to the solar plexus – helping us to shine, feel our own innate power, and and bring forth our confidence into the world. It usually blooms at the new moon each month in summer, and has traditionally been used in ritual to ‘inspire optimism and vitality and to attract success in every area of life’. Its protective energy draws light and love into our energy field, protecting us from negative influences. Calendula contains anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that treat most common skin conditions. It’s also good for reducing bruises, cuts, scars, and sores.

fullsizerender Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — Calendula in my garden

To enjoy a 15% Janella discount on your @TheHerbFarmskincare order, use this code JANELLA15 and watch your skin take a deep sigh of relief.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are a generic term that describes the mopping up of free radicals (the bad guys) in your body – by increasing oxygenation.

Modern food far from existing in its original state, the stress of living in today’s world, strenuous exercise, sun exposure, pollution, chemicals used to grow our food and make our cosmetics, computers, TV’s and carpets, smoking, and bacterial infections can all cause a rise in free radicals to dangerous levels. This results in damage at a cellular level resulting in premature ageing like wrinkles, bad skin, black rings under the eyes and sometimes, serious illnesses such as cancer.

Many antioxidants are vitamins like C and E, but Carotenoids are the most powerful anti oxidants known. Along with chlorophyll, carotenoids are what give plants their colour. The most powerful carotenoid is Astaxanthin (blue-green algae), and the next is Beta Carotene, of which Spirulina is the richest known natural source. There are other foods high in different antioxidants. This is where you’ll find lots of them –

Astaxanthin

This little known carotenoid is now believed to be the most powerful antioxidant by far. There are only two natural sources of natural astaxanthin—the micro-algae that produce it, and the sea creatures that consume the algae (such as salmon, shellfish, and krill). Astaxanthin is 65 times more powerful than vitamin C, 54 times more powerful than beta-carotene, 550 times more powerful than Vitamin E. No adverse reactions at all have been found for people taking Astaxanthin. It’s perfectly safe. You’ll find astaxanthin in supplement form on line.

You may have heard of astaxanthin before. The synthetic version made in a laboratory is commonly used worldwide to give farmed fish, especially salmon, its pinkish red colour. You really do want to avoid man-made astaxanthin as it’s made from petrochemicals, which makes it a toxic hormone disruptor.

Cacao

According to a study in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” published in 2003, researchers compared the antioxidant capacity of black tea, green tea, red wine and cocoa, concluding that cocoa has the highest antioxidant activity among the four products and the greatest potential for health benefits.

Garlic and its juice

Garlic is one of the best medicines in the world. It has natural ‘germanium’ and is anti-fungal and antibacterial (just to name a few of its actions). If you’re cooking your garlic, crush it up and let it sit for ten minutes before adding it to your recipe. It has to sit so that the enzymes can create the healing phyto-chemicals we need.

Dried Fruit

Goji berries have an enormous amount of antioxidants, yet dried Pomegranate seeds, (also expensive) have almost double the amount. And then comes dried Indian Gooseberries that have around 10 times more than Goji berries.

Green Super-Foods

Spirulina, chlorella and barley grass are chock full of minerals and enzymes. The enzymes are both anti-mycotoxin (mycotoxins are released by yeast/fungal infections) and antioxidants.

Matcha

This premium green tea powder from Japan is used for drinking as tea, or to use as a vibrant, green ingredient in recipes. Other green teas are grown throughout the world, but Matcha is unique to Japan. One cup of Matcha contains as much as 10 times the antioxidants of one cups of brewed green tea.

Quercetin

An antioxidant belonging to a class of water-soluble plant substances called flavonoids. Some research has shown quercetin-rich foods, such as apples, berries, red grapes, red onions, capers and black tea, are ‘natural antihistamines’ as they prevent histamine release. Quercetin is also available in supplement form.

Selenium

Sources include wheat germ, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs and brown rice. Brazil nuts are perhaps the best source of this important mineral, and eating just 3-4 Brazil nuts per day may provide adequate intake for most people to maintain levels. Although, a supplement may be necessary if levels are low.

Vitamin A

Is found in dark green leafy veggies such as kale, rocket, baby spinach and all your Asian greens and any fruit or veg’ that is green, yellow, red or green in colour – so pumpkin, carrots, capsicum and broccoli, and spirulina has an enormous amount.

Vitamin C

This vitamin has long been known to battle the effects of ageing and disease. Like Vitamin E, Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant so it will help to reduce free radicals. Most fruits especially guava and paw paw are good sources of Vitamin C as are vegetables like kale, broccoli, cauliflower, tomato, Brussels’ sprouts and cucumber. Goji berries, Gubinge and Camu Camu have more Vitamin C per weight than most other foods on earth.

Vitamin D

Different from other vitamins because our bodies can make most of what we need with exposure to sunlight, unlike having to get it from our diet. In fact most foods aren’t great sources of vitamin D, and there are only a small amount to choose from. The best sources are cod liver oil, sardines, wild Alaskan salmon, mackerel and mushrooms. Sunlight is the best way to get your Vitamin D as it promotes this vitamin’s synthesis from cholesterol in the skin.10-15 minutes a day is enough, and allowing the sun to shine on as much of you body as you can is the way to go.

Vitamin E

Found in olives, nuts and seeds oils, wheat germ and leafy greens.

Zinc

Good sources are oysters, organic red meat, wheat germ, miso, pumpkin seeds, alfalfa, sardines, legumes, mushrooms, pecans, organic soybeans, sunflower seeds and whole grains.

Herbs + Spices

Extremely high in antioxidants, in fact at least 10 times higher than the foods above per weight, and the herbs and spices below are in a class of their own when it comes to antioxidants. Add these foods to your meals but you can also use them as essential oils and some of them as herbal tinctures. Look for 100 percent pure (therapeutic grade) oils, which are highest in antioxidants, and organic or at least wild-crafted herbal medicine. From the highest are cloves, cinnamon, rosemary, oregano, turmeric, cumin, parsley (dried), basil, ginger and thyme

Antibiotics

Many of us are now aware that some things are better for our microbiota than others, and to varying degrees. Antibiotics and laxatives, as well as medications against fever and pain, contraceptive hormones (The Pill), or those to alleviate menopausal symptoms all negatively affect gut flora composition. Antibiotics when prescribed responsibly are obviously life saving. They have saved countless lives and wiped out many diseases. But, there’s a price to pay for everything, and in this case the over- use of antibiotics has gotten us into some serious strife.

These days however, it’s pretty hard to avoid them. Even if you’re a raw food vegan who’s never sick, you’re still likely to be exposed to antibiotics. 80% of the antibiotics manufactured world wide are for animals for food, so we’re constantly being exposed to antibiotics, every time we eat or drink, as the manure your veggies are grown with comes from animals that have been fed antibiotics. Antibiotics are in our food and in our water.

Studies are showing that small amounts of antibiotics given regularly, is a whole lot worse than one big hit when you’re sick and you actually need them. Antibiotics are not meant for prevention, but it is a billion dollar industry, so making changes to the system is, well, tricky.

It’s encouraging to see that more and more conscious farmers are using herbs and essential oils like oregano oil to replace expensive and damaging antibiotics that are so commonly and mindlessly used in commercial farming. The over-use of antibiotics both for us and in our food is destroying our gut flora, reduces immunity, increases anxiety and depression and keeps us susceptible to everything. Not to mention the damage they’re doing to our animals and our planet.

So far, western medicine’s answer has been to prescribe yet more drugs, so that now we have arrived in a scary place called ‘antibiotic resistant’. This is now at crisis levels, meaning some infections are becoming untreatable. What we’ve basically done is coat our world in a bubble of antibiotics by our overuse and inappropriate use of them. And antibiotic use is in Australia, which directly affects the development of antibiotic resistance.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is a type of staph’ that has developed resistance to a family of antibiotics similar to penicillin. When we take an antibiotic, the drug kills many bacteria, but a few survive. These surviving bacteria are now resistant to that antibiotic, and then they multiply. What this means is, every time a patient takes an antibiotic, he or she is creating more drug-resistant bacteria. The growing number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses a very serious and immediate threat to our health as a species. In 1974, MRSA infections accounted for 2% of the total number of staph infections; in 1995 it was 22%; in 2004 it was 63%. These bacteria were once mainly found in hospitals, doctor’s surgeries and nursing homes, but recently they’ve been showing up in gyms, schools, sports clubs, and other places where people are in close contact.

Two-thirds of the children today have already taken a course of antibiotics by the time they are 12 months old. Antibiotics have been shown to affect the childhood microbiome causing changes associated with allergies, obesity and autism – three of the biggest childhood issues in developed countries. This means long-term health implications for these children. While this link is still being researched, the evidence is mounting.

Bacterial infections need antibiotics, as the infection will only get worse, if it’s not treated. Examples of serious infections that arguably need antibiotics under one year of age are meningitis, whooping cough, pneumonia, infection in the blood and urinary infections. Antibiotics are ineffective for common viral infections however, so treating these with antibiotics results in none of the benefits and all of the disadvantages. These include most respiratory infections – for example of the ear, throat and chest, yet we are still constantly being prescribed antibiotics for these conditions. There are many effective alternatives to synthetic antibiotics. Herbal medicine and essential oils have both undergone much research and the results are exciting.

A recent British report estimated that antibiotic and microbial resistance could kill an extra 10 million people a year and cost up to $100 trillion USD by 2050 if it is not brought under control, and soon.

Btw, scientists often modify seeds using antibiotic-resistant genes in the genetic engineering process. Some people wonder if there’s a link between these GM Frankenfoods and the ever increasing rates of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

See GMO Foods in my eBooks

Castor Oil packs

Castor Oil – coming from the seeds (or beans) of the Ricinus communis plant, is an oil rich in antioxidants and Ricinoleic Acid (RA) and also contains small amounts of linoleic, oleic and stearic acid. The healthiest and safest version of castor oil comes from de-hulling the bean, then cold-pressing the seeds to produce the rich and viscous oil.

Castor oil packs have been used by healers to help reduce a variety of health conditions for many generations. Placed over your abdomen or liver, these packs are used to improve liver detoxification, breakdown kidney stones, reduce period pain, reduce symptoms of autoimmunity, support uterine and ovarian health, improve lymphatic circulation and reduce inflammation.

To DIY: Mix two to four drops of an essential oil – depending on what you’re treating – with enough warm castor oil to lightly soak a piece of cloth, (either a lightweight tea towel, or a piece of linen, or even a face washer). Castor oil has a rather strong smell, so be ready.

Btw, you can buy packs that include a piece of flannel cloth and a pack, with straps – so you’re all sorted. Just Google ‘castor oil packs’. (See images.)

Wring out the cloth to remove any excess oil, then place it over your abdomen or liver for at least 30 minutes, with a heat source like a wheat pack or hot water bottle over the top of it. This helps to stimulate lymph and liver function. Lie flat in bed, and perhaps cover your eyes with an eye pillow and use this time of quiet relaxation to go within.

Placing the pack on the right side of the abdomen or the whole abdomen will help support the liver and digestive systems, as well as reproductive and colon health. These packs are used also to relieve pain. Aim to do it 3 times a week, and relax.

Castor oil packs can be a bit messy, so I wrap mine in a plastic-free cover like a bees wax wrap, or an apron. Be aware of any skin sensitivities, so avoid applying the oils directly to your skin.

Side note – I was once at a sanitarium (health retreat/hospital) in Austria, and part of the program was a daily liver pack, such as this one above. Instead of the oil-soaked cloth though, they used flaked pieces of dried burdock root (a great liver herb) that had been warmed and stuffed in a plastic zip lock bag. It was delivered to my room like this, so all I had to do was lay down on my bed, put a light towel over my abdomen and then the compress over the top. Gawd it was nice. And I really did feel the benefits. Gut and reproductive pain, as well as pent up anger and resentment – all but disappeared using these packs daily for the 5 days I was there.

Either way you decide to do it – it’s going to help.

Aloe Vera – anti viral

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera produces at least six natural antiseptic agents, killing mould, bacteria, fungi and viruses, so it’s little wonder aloe vera is one of nature’s most gentle, yet potent, digestive healers. This magical plant is so powerful that researchers and scientists are looking at its potential to fight AIDS, cancer and virus’.

If you use commercially prepared aloe vera, get certified organic juice. If using it fresh, split a large leaf down the middle and scrape out the flesh, avoiding the mildly toxic, yellow part closest to the leaf. Drink 30mls or aloe juice morning and night on an empty stomach.

As a topical moisturiser it’s fantastic also. I rub the gel (I buy in a pump bottle) all over my face and neck as soon as I wake up, after splashing my face with water, and again last thing at night.

While it has many topical uses, I’m a huge fan of its ability to soothe and heal the gut lining, which has a big effect on our skin, mood, weight and overall health. Here are just some of it’s other benefits:

relieves gastrointestinal disorders such as leaky gut, indigestion, reflux, heartburn, bloating and constipation
reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, including bloating and discomfort
eases stomach ulcers, colitis, haemorrhoids, urinary tract infections and prostate problems
reduces gum disease
speeds up healing
helps maintain healthy gut bacteria
reduces cholesterol and triglycerides for a healthy heart
balances blood sugar levels and blood pressure
reduces arthritis and rheumatic pain
helps with detox
fights viral, bacterial and fungal infections

Ginger, Lemon and Mint Aloe Jelly (makes 2 ice cube trays)

These jellies are useful for when you’re feeling nauseous, or feeling like you’re coming down with a cold or ‘flu, suffering with any gut pain at all, or reflux.

400ml aloe vera juice, unflavoured

2 tsp agar flakes

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

2 tsp grated lemon zest, or 2 drops lemon essential oil

1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped or 1 drop peppermint essential oil

Sweetener, optional

Method: Squeeze the grated ginger over a small bowl, so you get the juice, then set aside. (Use the ginger fibre in your cooking.) In a saucepan over medium heat, gently warm your aloe vera juice, then whisk in the agar flakes until dissolved. This should take a minute or two. Bring to the boil then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly, then whisk in the ginger juice, zest and mint (or essential oil). Pour into ice cube trays and chill until set, about an hour.

Red Meat

It’s looking likely that the association between eating meat (lamb, beef, veal, pork) and cancer may be in part due to our own individual microbiome. This means that a person with a less than healthy gut flora may be at an increased risk of cancer if he or she consumes high amounts of either fresh or processed red meat. Yet a patient with a normal, healthy microbiome may not be. But what are considered ‘high amounts’? Good question and it’s difficult to find any consistency around recommendations, but it varies widely between 60g a couple of times a week, to no more than 7 serves a week, no bigger than 100g each, and then beyond and below this. Furthermore, results from the 2009 European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC-Oxford) suggest that if moderate meat eaters (less than 100g daily) consume enough fruits and vegetables, their death rates may be similar to vegetarians. I just wonder how accurate these studies are, who’s conducting them, and what type of meat is being used in the research – meaning organic, pasture-fed or conventional, as there is a world of difference between them.

Modern Meat

Animals grown today for food are typically fed GMO (genetically engineered) feed, when their natural diet is simply plain grass and air, and not genetically modified. Plus they’re given antibiotics to prevent disease. This difference in the animal’s diet creates an enormously different type of meat. This type of meat is toxic, hormone disrupting and disease-causing.

Processed Meats

You may have saw the relatively recent report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an independent agency of the World Health Organisation (WHO), stating that processed red meat was a Group 1 carcinogen (known to cause cancer), and fresh red meat was a “Group 2” (probably carcinogenic). The WHO includes hot dogs, ham, sausages, corned beef, beef jerky, and canned meat among it’s examples of processed meats. (Prosciutto isn’t included in this group btw.)

Nitrates

Carcinogenic compounds called N-nitroso compounds (NOCs) are formed when meat is processed either by curing and/or smoking. NOCs are present whether you buy nitrate-cured meat or natural meat cured with celery extract. After it was discovered that there were high levels of carcinogenic nitrites in bacon and processed meats, some manufacturers reduced the amounts of nitrites and added antioxidants to help protect against the formation of NOCs. NOC’s are still part of processed meats, just in varying levels.

How much is too much?

Cancer Council of Australia says ‘a moderate amount’ of meat is a 65g serve of cooked meat each day, or 2 serves (130g) 3-4 times a week. Avoiding consuming more than 455g of cooked, lean red meat each week.

I believe this to be way too much! Many health experts would agree, recommending that 60g of organic, red meat twice a week is enough. I am one of these.

Cooking Methods

Cooking meat at high temperatures as you would when you grill, bbq, char-grill, oven broiling, pan fry or deep-fry leads to a reaction between compounds in the meat forming carcinogens called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). Pan-frying at high temperatures leads to the highest accumulation of HCAs, based on a 2015 study.

PAH’s

When fat and juices from meat drip onto the fire of a grill, causing flames, another type of carcinogen called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are formed. These PAHs in the flames then stick to the surface of the meat. PAHs also can form when we smoke meats.

Added Salt

Almost all processed meats are manufactured with large amounts of refined salt added. High dietary (refined) salt concentrations in almost all foods are associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers (mouth, throat, oesophagus, stomach, and colon), along with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Antibiotics and Pesticides

The excessive use of antibiotics in meat production is a very real concern regarding the dramatic increase in antibiotic-resistant disease in humans. As we know, antibiotics devastate our gut bacteria, and this reason alone is enough to make sure you only buy organically raised, grass-fed meats, as they’re not allowed to use antibiotics, (or GM feed). As for pesticides, non-organic meat is one of the main sources of pesticide exposure, not fruits and vegetables! This is because the animals are fed a diet consisting primarily of GMO grains, which are of course sprayed with pesticides. In Australia this happens less frequently, but it still occurs.

The World Health Organisation report, “Global Strategy for Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance,” states that farmers’ use of antibiotics in livestock enables microbes to build up defences against the drugs/medications, leap up in the food chain and attack human immune systems. The WHO is one of many major health organisations that are calling for an end to the widespread use antibiotics in poultry and livestock.

GMO Feed

Livestock has been fed genetically engineered crops since they were first introduced in 1996 and each of the top 6 GMO crops are heavily utilised by the global animal feed market. Some of the most common ingredients are soy, cotton, corn, canola, sugar beets, and alfalfa – 5 of the top 6 GMO crops. The countries that produce the most animal feed–the United States, Brazil, and China–are all leaders in GMO production, so it’s no surprise to learn that their animal feed products are made up of significant amounts of GMOs. The commercial animal feed industry is by far the largest purchaser of US GMO corn and soybean meal. Of the two largest GMO crops in the United States, 98% soy and 79.5% of corn goes directly into feeding animals, and btw also used for fuelling cars in the US. See GMO

The Planet

Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and chicken farming contribute to around 6 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide) each year. This is around 18% of global emissions, but some estimate this at more like 51%. Clearly the rate at which we’re eating meat can’t be sustained. Beef has the highest carbon footprint compared with poultry, fish, and plant foods. The top environmental concerns with commercial red meat production are greenhouse gas emissions, water and land use, fertilisers/pesticides, GMO and antibiotic use.

Bone Broth

Bone Broth

Bone broth is really just stock that’s been cooked for a long time. We now know that slow-cooked bones are a great source of collagen (as is slippery elm) for beautiful skin, hair, nails and teeth, and guard against a leaky gut by sealing up the holes causing the ‘leak’. People also report that bone broth helps reduce allergic symptoms, improves a struggling immune system, improves brain health, and helps reduce cellulite by improving connective tissue.

Too much of a good thing? Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, or suffer with migraines, brain fog, severe mood swings or nervous tics? If so, then bone broth may not be for you. Also, children with nervous system disorders such as ADD, ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, should not drink long-cooked bone broth. There have been many reports of seizures after drinking bone broth, even just a small amount.

Cooking bones for a long time creates very high levels of glutamine, so if you have leaky brain—as those with leaky gut often do—high amounts of glutamic acid/glutamine can trigger seizures if you’re prone to them. Autoimmune issues usually means leaky gut, and leaky gut means leaky brain, and leaky brain means glutamic acid sensitivity.

Bone Broth Recipe:

1kg organic beef or lamb bones; or chicken or turkey carcus; or fish frames

1 onion

2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

1 large carrot, roughly chopped

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Method: Pop the chicken carcass, fish frame or beef bones on a baking tray at a high temperature of around 230°C. Roast until the bones are brown, almost too brown. This takes around 30 minutes.

Now you’re ready to boil the bones. Place them in the heaviest, biggest stockpot you have, along with your veggies. Don’t leave behind the crisped brown or stuck bits on the bottom of the baking tray; loosen them with a little water and a metal spatula, then add those to your stockpot too. These are some of the most flavoursome bits. At this stage, add whatever aromatics you like, but keep it simple. Things like black pepper, bay leaves and celery leaves work well, or just use the veggies.

Add enough filtered water to just cover the bones, then add the vinegar. Let the pot sit on the stove without heat for about 20 minutes. This lets the acid from the vinegar go to work on the bones, making their nutrients more available.

Bring to a rapid boil, then drop to a simmer and cover. How long you simmer it can vary, depending on how deep you want the flavour, and how much time you’ve got. Fish broth really only needs 30 minutes; chicken broth about two hours; whereas beef stock can be simmered anywhere from 1-2 hours. Cool slightly in the pot then get ready to strain. Remove all the scum and impurities floating on top, then use a fine colander to strain. Use in the next day or two, or freeze in 1 litre containers for up to 3 months.

Folate in Wheat

Our wheat has been fortified with folic acid – the synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9) since the 1990’s. It’s also added to many other foods like breads, cereals, and some packaged foods. If you’re wondering why you can eat wheat in Europe – or wheat products imported from Europe – without experiencing the same unwanted symptoms, it’s because they said NO to this process, as they consider this grain good enough in it’s natural form. To avoid this unhealthy toxic additive, buy organic wheat, or spelt. Or look for pasta and flour imported from Europe.

Chicken

Chicken

Red meat has traditionally been Australia’s favourite meat, but we’re now eating half as much lamb as we were in the 1980s and two-thirds the amount of beef, twice as much pork, and nearly 2.5 times as much chicken. Worldwide consumption of chicken was 13.2 kg per person in 2014; pork was 12.6 kg, yet Australians devoured 49.3 kilograms of meat per person in 2014, 170 grams more per person than the Americans.

Worldwide, chicken is now the world’s favourite meat, and trying to find out exactly how the chicken you’re eating was raised and fed isn’t that easy. Labelling certainly doesn’t make it any clearer. So, what do we need to look for when buying and eating chicken?

Conventional

Animals raised for food aren’t given the same legal protections we give to dogs and cats for example. There’s nothing preventing farmers to perform surgical procedures like beak trimming or tail cutting without anaesthetics. They are also allowed to inhumanely raise them in extremely cramped conditions where they can barely move. This can lead to a lack of mobility and increases the incidence of sickness, skin diseases and the ability to access food and water. This stress created in the chickens can lead to increased disease and the increased need for antibiotics, not to mention ‘stunted’ meat is devoid of taste and lower the nutritional value.

Other welfare issues include birds’ inability to express natural behaviours such as scratching, foraging and dust bathing, and access to perches. It’s also permitted for chickens to be kept under continuous lighting for 23 hours a day.

Many of the antibiotics fed to mass-produced chickens are identical to the ones given to humans. Overuse of antibiotics has lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, increasing the potential for human disease.

Buying certified organic poultry is the only way to be sure the animals you’re eating haven’t been fed GMO feed, using the four main GM crops — canola, cottonseed, corn and soy.

Free Range

‘Free-Range’ chickens technically have access to the outdoors, but this doesn’t mean they actually go outside. Typically, meat chickens don’t go outside until they are fully feathered, around 21 days old, and begin to be harvested when they reach slaughter weight at about 35 days old. This means that, free range might mean only 14 days at most might be spent outside.

There are no laws requiring the birds to be active and to express their natural behaviours either. No pecking objects, perches or bedding in which to dust-bathe, or any laws requiring a dark period that’s long enough so they can rest properly. Like Free-Range chickens, 23 hours of continuous light is allowed. 4 hours for RSPCA’s Approved Farming Scheme, 8 hours for certified organic chickens.

Just seeing ‘free-range’ on the packet doesn’t mean the birds are actually free-ranging. It’s important to choose certified free-range products. Certification means farms are subject to third-party audits so shoppers know that certification standards are being upheld. You’ll see a symbol from the Free Range Egg and Poultry Association (FREPA).

Btw, Free-range doesn’t mean they can’t be fed GMO feed and antibiotics. It only means they have ‘access’ to the outdoors. Free range or not, the amount of birds allowed per square metre is 40 kg, which is about 20 birds at a harvestable weight of two kilograms each.

Organic

Organic animal products all come from free-range animals, that have access to pastures and pesticide-free food for their entire lives. So, in a way, organic, free range, RSPCA and Eco’ all overlap. Organic chickens eat organic feed and the use of antibiotics, GMO feed and feed made from other animal parts cannot be used in organic chicken farming. Thriving in a stress-free environment, this makes all the difference in the world in terms of their health, nutritional value and taste. 8 Hours continuous darkness is required so they ca get adequate rest.

Organic chicken farming has a strict focus on environmental sustainability, animal welfare and protecting the habitats of native animals. Be sure to be certified organic poultry. The Australian Certified Organic “bud” logo is the most recognisable of the logos.

Salicylates

Salicylates

In the 1960s, rheumatologists noticed that some children taking arthritis medication were behaving strangely. One professor reported a patient who attacked him with a knife while ‘under the influence of salicylates’. Then in the 1970s, an American paediatrician noticed that it wasn’t just the salicylate in the meds causing the problem, but also by natural salicylate in foods. Later a study confirmed that children’s learning could be affected by both salicylate in foods and salicylate in some medications.

What

Salicylates are chemicals naturally occurring in many plants. They work to protect the plants against insects and diseases, acting like a kind of natural pesticide.

Who

Most people with this sensitivity have no idea what’s triggering their symptoms, yet it’s not uncommon to have a salicylate sensitivity. Research shows that approximately 75% of children with behaviour problems, 70% of people with IBS, 60% of people with food-induced itchy rashes, headaches or migraines and 20% of adults with asthma may be sensitive to salicylate.

Where

Salicylates are found in most fruit, some vegetables, herbs, spices, tea, coffee and nuts. Things like berries, citrus, tomato sauce, jams, honey, yeast extracts, juices, beer and wines, and processed foods with those flavours. Salicylates are also found in some medications. (Aspirin being the best known, was originally extracted from willow bark when introduced nearly 150 years ago. It was regarded as a completely safe wonder drug but by now, numerous side effects have been documented. Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) induced stomach problems are estimated to cause 76,000 hospital admissions and 7,600 deaths each year alone in the USA. Other NSAIDs, as well as over-the-counter topical medications – such as lotions and ointments should also be avoided as salicylates are easily absorbed through the skin. They are also present in artificial fragrances (e.g. peppermint and mint flavouring), perfumes, scented toiletries, eucalyptus oils, industrial chemicals, plastics and some pesticides, and like sulphur dioxide, doesn’t even need to be eaten to cause havoc; they can have a negative effect simply by inhaling them. Don’t despair however, as four of the top five foods low in salicylate (Brussels sprouts, cabbage, garlic and shallots/scallions)^,have been found to be most effective in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Eat Whole Food

Where once we ate whole fruits and veggies, nowadays that’s been replaced with bi products of these foods. As a result we’re consuming high levels of processed, concentrated salicylates in fruit or vegetable juices, sauces, pastes, powders, jams, stock cubes, tomato paste and dried fruit and vegetables, syrups and flavourings, hot potato chips and soft drinks.

GMO

The other issue increasing salicylate levels in our food is picking fruits and veggies when they’re unripe (for a longer shelf life) when salicylates are at their highest. Naturally tree-ripened fruit is a much better option, when it’s just about to fall off the tree. Moreover, plants are now genetically engineered to have increased salicylates for disease resistance. These foods are very often available all year round, and that’s very worrying.

Addicted

Chemicals can be addictive, and those occurring naturally in plants are no different. It’s not unusual is to see children with a salicylate- sensitivity chowing down on very little other than the highest salicylate foods – tomato sauce, fruit juice, broccoli, grapes, berries, kiwi fruit, sultanas and fruit- flavoured yoghurts. Most of the time parents are unaware of the child’s ongoing addiction/intolerance – as the food is considered ‘healthy’.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person, but digestive problems are the most common. Things like reflux, nausea, vomiting, stomach bloating and discomfort, pain, wind, diarrhoea and/or constipation; behaviour problems such as irritability, restlessness, inattention, oppositional defiance, symptoms of ADHD; asthma, stuffy or runny nose, nasal polyps, frequent throat clearing; anxiety, depression, panic attacks; sleep disturbance – difficulty falling asleep, night terrors, frequent night waking, sleep apnoea; rapid heart beat and arrhythmias; tinnitus, hearing loss; joint pain, arthritis, and more. Very often it’s a feeling of being generally unwell, run down, or just plain irritable.

What To Do

Salicylate sensitivity varies greatly. Some people improve just by cutting down on their intake, and others will have to avoid high salicylate foods altogether. Reactions are related to dose – the more you eat, the more likely you are to be affected.

Pork

What’s more important when you’re looking for safe and ethical pork products? That they’re allowed to free-range, they’re nitrate and growth hormone free, or certified organic? And while many of us are aware of these health concerns, and the cancerous issues recently raised by eating preserved and cured meats, let’s not forget about the added gluten, GMO soy, antibiotics, hormones and preservatives use in pork products. There are so many choices now that it’s almost impossible to navigate this world of pork, and easier to ignore your better judgment because it’s all too hard, and resign yourself to buying pork from the supermarket. Here’s why you don’t want to be doing that.

Free Range

More of us are trying to buy free range pork, but what do you look for on the label? “Bred free range“ means the mother pig is ‘free to range’,too that is until she weans her piglets. After that they are all housed in shelters, and this is where ‘free-range’ pork comes from. You’ll often see the word “bred” dropped at retail level, and this is allowed.

Growth Enhancers are allowed to be used in Australian pig farming. These are not an antibiotics, but instead they alter the animal’s metabolism so that the pig can produce more lean tissue (muscle) and less fat. Natural pig farming opposes the use of growth hormones to artificially accelerate the pig’s growth and weight gain.

Antibiotics

Over 65 per cent of small-goods sold in Australia come from Denmark, Canada and the United States where they have been intensively farmed using routine antibiotics. Pork producers have found that by giving small doses of antibiotics to hogs via their feed, the animals are able to grow larger in a shorter amount of time.

Bromines

Bromines are a class of halogens that include fluoride, chlorine and iodine. Exposure to bromine can lead to a bromine toxicity, known as ‘The Bromide Dominance Theory’, and it has many detrimental consequences to our health. Firstly your thyroid will not hold on to the iodine it needs because when you ingest or absorb bromine, it displaces iodine, so you end up with an iodine deficiency. This is bad news because iodine affects every tissue in your body, not just your thyroid.

Bromine is a central nervous system depressant and can cause a number of psychological symptoms such as acute paranoia and psychosis. Bromine toxicity can also manifest as –

Cardiac arrhythmias
Fatigue
Loss of appetite and abdominal pain
Metallic taste in your mouth
Severe acne
Skin rashes
Low Thyroid function

Bromide-containing pesticides (methyl bromide) are also widely used for soil fumigation and post-harvest treatment. Residues in non-organic food are the most common way we are exposed to Bromines. They tend to accumulate through the food chain – meaning we face a particular risk of these chemicals slowly building up in our bodies. Also as fire retardants in our computers, pillows, cushions and TVs.

Where else can Bromines be found?

Bakery goods and some flours – a dough conditioner for impatient bakers (potassium bromate)
Soft drinks, including Mountain Dew, and until recently Fanta and Gatorade and other citrus-flavored sodas – in the form of brominated vegetable oils (BVOs) to help suspend the flavour and colour evenly in the liquid.
Medications such as some inhalers, nasal spray, for ulcers, and anaesthesia agents
Bromine-based hot tub and swimming pool treatments. A better option than bromine and chlorine is an ozone purification system. This way it’s possible to keep the water clean with minimal chemicals

Plastics (to make computers)
Fire retardants like polybromo diphenyl ethers or PBDEs used in fabrics, carpets, upholstery, your TV, computer and mattresses
Toothpastes and mouthwashes – (Potassium bromate) added as an antiseptic and astringent. It can cause bleeding and inflammation of the gums.

How To Avoid Bromines.

It’s not easy but you can limit your exposure by :

Open the windows to your building/home and car to let the fresh air in. Environmental toxins are much higher inside buildings and cars than outside. Use fans to circulate the air.
Look for organic whole-grain breads and flour. Or else you can look for the “no bromine” or “bromine-free” label on baked goods.
Eat organic as often as possible.
Reduce exposure to pesticides by washing all your produce, preferably in a sink full of diluted apple cider vinegar.
Your car upholstery
Use glass and ceramic storage containers, avoiding eating, drinking or storing food and fluid in plastic.
Avoid soft drinks.
If you own a hot tub, look into ways of keeping the water clean with minimal chemical treatments.
Look for personal care products that are as non-toxic as possible. Remember your skin is your largest organ so it will absorb toxins.

Today, bromine is extracted on an industrial scale from salt lakes that are especially rich in the element, like all the Dead Sea. It’s huge business.

In 1990, the United Kingdom banned bromate in bread. In 1994, Canada and Japan did the same in 2010. Brazil recently outlawed bromide in flour products, and the US have no laws around it’s use, and sadly nor do we have any here in Australia.

also see Organic, Thyroids

Panchakarma: The Different Massages

Living on planet earth over the last 60 years or so has had a detrimental effect on our bodies and mind. Our 21st century lives bombard us with excessive amounts of toxins, both physically and mentally. On top of this, we’re so disconnected from nature and our surrounds, that what’s demanded of us in order to stay or get healthy – is to periodically undergo some form of detoxification.

This means taking a break from environmental pollution, contaminated food and water, unhealthy eating and drinking habits and thought patterns, and continuous emotional, physical, invisible (mobile phones microwaves, wifi) and chemical stress, and an ever increasing dependence on western drugs. PK gives us this opportunity.

This is an individually designed combination of massage (and other treatments), herbal medicine, a simple and light diet, and removing all stress from the body and mind. These treatments are designed to purge physiological stress and accumulated toxins out of the body that are preventing our own natural state of good health.

I had my treatments from 9am until about noon each day, with the same two nurturing therapists daily. I know this sounds blissful, and it was in the beginning. But after about a week of daily 2 hour massages, sometimes followed by enemas, it gets harder and harder to lie there, and receive. 21 days is definitely enough.

The massages are many and varied, depending on your own dosha (your constitution) and the reason why you’re there. That is, the state of your health.

1. ABHYANGAM: Therapeutic oil is lightly applied from head to toe, to soothe sore muscles, increase energy and rejuvenate all your senses. It also helps improve mental alertness, circulation and sleep.

kerala ayurvedic treatments massage therapy for real relaxation Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — Abhyanga – Head to toe oil massage

2. SHIRODHARA: This is the signature Ayurvedic massage from body, mind and soul. A continuous stream of medicated oil falls gently on your forehead from a specific height through a specially made apparatus. Regular treatments improve memory, flush out impurities, nourish the hair and scalp, release stress and strain and deeply relax the nervous system. It also stimulates arterial and lymphatic circulation. I had one of these each day! The deep state of rest (or transcendence) I experienced each time was profound.

2278784 5381719 image a 1 1518451181142 Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — Shirodhara – A stream of oil falls on your forehead

3. UDWARTHANAM: Powdered herbs and pastes are used to exfoliate the body using special strokes designed to deeply cleanse the skin and its pores by breaking down cellulite under the skin, leaving your skin soft and glowing, and helping to remove excess fat. This massage will also stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxic residue from your tissues. Dry massage – the therapists use powdered herbs or pastes. These massages are designed to stimulates the blood circulation and also to exfoliate the skin. You’re so clean and smooth after this treatment.

treatment thumbs 20 26 0 Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — Udwarthanam – Exfoliating scrub

4. PIZHICHIL: Warm oil is squeezed all over the body, whilst being gently massaged. It’s kinda heaven! This massage is designed not only to put you in a state of bliss, but also (or because of) to reduce blood pressure, body aches and pains, and helps heal rheumatoid (joints) conditions, as well as giving your immune system a big boost.

pizhichil ayurveda Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — Warm oil is dripped all over your body

5. ELAKIZHI: Bundles of muslin are filled with herbs and powders, then twisted before being warmed in medicated oils. They are then used to massage the entire body, whilst shifting/rocking the person from side to side. This technique increases circulation, promoting perspiration, allowing dead skin to be eliminated. It’s also toning and ever so relaxing.

maxresdefault Herbal medicine,natural remedies for menopause,acne solutions natural,Australia — ELAKIZHI – Little muslin bundles are used

One of my therapist for the 21 days. She’s getting the equipment ready for Shirodhara

Panchakarma: Ayurvedic Astrology

On my second last day in Rishikesh, I finally scored myself an appointment with a doctor I’d heard great things about. And he ended up being about a 2 minute walk from where I was staying!

Ok, so this was an incredible hour of my life! He put his hand around each of my wrists, one at a time – to feel my pulse. With this – he understood me on a such a deep level, so much so that if I was new to this kind of thing – I might have felt vulnerable and perhaps ashamed, but at 50 – I know myself, and have learned to accept me, (most days).

The ancient science of Ayurveda and PK, allows the skilled practitioner to really see who you are. It’s a bit spooky really, but fascinating and validating at the same time.

His assistant Ella (my new BF) told me that during her first session with him she raced upstairs to her room to make sure he hadn’t in fact read her diary. 6 years later, cured of chronic illness and 18kg down – she runs his practice and organises his PK clients that come from all over the world.

He immediately told me that my mind is the source of my gut issues. Something I know, but amazing to be told this after he held my wrists for about 30 seconds. He then went on to explain the exact mental patterning I have that is causing my gut to be unhappy. Whoa! Now this was new info’. When I told my Mother what he said – she said ‘that’s exactly what you do and how you think’. Confirmation from the person who knows you best is always a good/enlightening thing.

He explained how the Sun (and Mercury) were strong in my birth chart, causing too much heat in my stomach, preventing proper digestion. To counteract this heat, he suggested I fast on Tuesdays – as this is the Sun’s day. (Each planet has a day where it is strongest.) So I’ve been doing this since I’ve been back. He suggested I eat nothing (but water) all day then have a bowl of #Kitchari for dinner – but I haven’t done this yet. Instead I’m having paw paw for brekky, then Kitchari for lunch then nothing for dinner. (It’s so much easier fasting when you don’t work and live close to your kitchen.) He also suggested 30 minutes of ‘Salute To The Sun’ – the yoga sequence.

Having your Ayurvedic astrology done (with a skilled and honest practitioner) will blow your mind! After all – aren’t we meant to know ourselves, our personality – then work to strip away all that isn’t working for us? To find our authentic Self…

A month after I’ve returned from my PK experience – I feel happier, healthier and more peaceful than I reckon I ever have been.

If you’re interested in doing PK somewhere good in India, and clean and safe – contact Ella on +91 96348 166 38. Tell her I sent you (for a discount and a speedy reply).

Panchakarma: What I ate for 21 Days

Breakfast was a small bowl of paw paw, about one cup. If I was having a basti (enema) then I skipped breakfast and had it after that ‘delightful’ process.

Mid Morning – I had a pomegranate (coz they’re abundant in India, super healthy, and I LOVE them) or a mandarin.

Lunch was 2 small bowls of food – one was a stirred veggie in a tiny bit of ghee and some cumin seeds (great for digestion), and the other was a really thin Dahl (lentil soup). Seriously, I was full after this.

Dinner – I usually tried to miss this meal, but any Ayurvedic doctor said I should have something to keep my digestion working. I know my body likes it when I don’t eat dinner, but I was a good patient and surrendered to listening to him, sometimes…

I drank one or two cups of tulsi or chai (or combined) tea a day and lots of clean water. (Not as much as I should’ve I must admit – and this was because I went out (shopping, exercising, sight seeing or visiting a temple or ashram) after my 9am treatments each day, and going to the toilet in India is not pretty!

Hunger didn’t seem to be an issue whilst I was doing PK, even though I was exercising quite a bit and I was eating less than I normally would. And some of the best news is that I haven’t gained back any of the 4kg I lost on PK, (and 3kg more since home). This is unusual for me as it usually finds its way back to me after my week of juice fasting each year in Bali. PK helps your body balance so it works better for you.

Panchakarma – The Science Of Rejuvenation

In March I spent 21 Days in Rishikesh, India doing this ancient cleanse, and I’m still feeling the positive effects. Most days were a challenge, but not due to anything besides the long period of solitude forcing me to go within. No distractions, no one to blame for anything – just me and my 50 years of built up mental constructs and patterning. See what I mean? Hard. There was one day I was so angry that I thought I was going to burst. Then the next day was pure joy. And another day ridiculously anxious for no apparent reason. Staying present is essential during a cleanse like this, mostly to remember that these are OLD emotions and impurities being detoxed.

The toxins – whether mental, spiritual, physical or emotional need to be moved from their hiding places in our body before they can be detoxed, and WOW – do we feel it. ‘Let It Go – the present moment is all that exists’ was my constant mantra. Some days I achieved this better than others! More to come on this…

So why do Panchakarma (PK)? This is an Ayurvedic treatment that helps our body purify itself of ama (toxic impurities) that we have accumulated over the years due to either poor digestion, thoughts, or an imbalance in your own dosha (basically, this your body type).

This ancient science knows that human life cannot be separated from cosmic life; spirit, body and mind are in an intimate dance with everything else in creation – material and non-material. PK cleanses on every level.

Our mouth, anus and the pores of our skin are the three usual routes our clever bodies use to eliminate waste and toxins, and during PK our own dosha is stimulated to gather these impurities from deep within and redirect them to the gut, and then to the 3 main outlets for elimination.

Any PK cleanse will start will gathering up the impurities, and this is done by daily oil massage, a light diet and herbs.

Increase Detox’ via our 6 Elimination Channels – it’s not just about the liver.

It’s that time of year when many of us are thinking maybe that week of Pina Colada’s and chips lounging around the pool may not have been the best idea. Guilt and fear have set in. But no need to panic, because there is a safe and easy way to get back to your pre-silly season weight and vitality, fast.

We’ve all heard about the importance of the liver’s role in detox, but what about the other 5 ways we can eliminate waste from our bodies? Yes the liver is our major organ of detox’ but if any of the other 5 channels are blocked or burdened then it will put extra stress on all of them. The weakest link in this case will cause problems for the other channels of elimination, making us feel like a wheelie bin after Xmas. We need to be constantly removing waste from our bodies via these 6 channels, so it’s important we keep them all functioning as efficiently as possible. And in fact it’s not that hard.

A lot more toxins are coming into our bodies and staying there these days. There’s an influx of them coming from medications including the Pill, painkillers and HRT, household cleaning products and cosmetics, also our food is pretty toxic unless it’s grown organically, and then there’s all the hidden toxins inside our homes in our mattress, couch, computers, carpets and kid’s toys’. This is causing a toxic overload in our bodies. By this I mean the amount of toxic chemicals we are exposed to, circulating in our bodies are outweighing the rate at which our 6 channels of elimination can remove/detox them. So, lets give them a hand.

Below are our 6 elimination channels, and some easy ways to help the exit of toxic build up from each channel. These toxic, free radicals contribute to oxidative stress that lead to a very unhappy body, and mind.

Liver – Chlorella, spirulina, iron-rich foods, herbal medicine and tea including Dandelion Root, lemon water in the morning, Epsom salts, broccoli and green leafy veggies
Skin – skin brushing, sweating, avoiding toxic body products
Lungs – Deep breathing, exercise, hyperbaric oxygen chamber, time in nature, meditation herbal medicine and tea including ginger
Bowel – Psyllium husks, digestive enzymes, fibre-rich foods, Aloe Vera herbal medicine like licorice and Chamomile, colonic irrigation, enemas, bentonite clay, Epsom salts
Kidneys – A steady intake of clean water, herbal medicine and tea like Celery, mediation
Lymphatic system – Rebounding, exercise, skin brushing, massage, zen chi machine

I personally like starting my day with ritual, especially at this time of the year when we’re all trying to get back into some kind of routine, and lose those extra kilos that have found their way onto our bodies. A morning ritual sets me up for the day and helps me to remain mindful about my intentions for that day. If I rush out of the house in the morning then I’m a bit off all day, and so is my gut, and mood. Try to take a few minutes for yourself in the morning; it’s an investment in your future. It’ll be worth it.

Oil Pulling – This will remove the toxins that have built up overnight, or at least brush your teeth before eating or drinking. You don’t want to wash those nasty bacteria down into your gut.
Aloe Vera – Take 30 mgs on an empty tummy. Do this again before bed if you can. This is one of the best things you can do for gut issues. What Native Americans call the “Wand of the Heaven” is one of nature’s most gentle, yet potent, digestive healers. If you’re suffering from digestive disorders, including leaky gut or fructose malabsorption, add aloe to your diet.
Lemon Water: Squeeze half a lemon in half a glass of warm water. This will help to alkaline your system. The lemon will give the liver a kick-start, and the warm water will stimulate digestion. You can also add some sliced or grated ginger or turmeric if you like. Or try adding Lifestream’s Honey + Ginger Syrup with manuka honey for extra health benefits.
Breakfast: Instead of skipping breakfast altogether when you’re wanting to slim down and perk up a little, a smoothie is ideal as you can put all your nutritional needs in one glass. Include Lifestream’s Essential Greens+ (containing spirulina and chlorella) for it’s ability to detox and cleanse, its protein and iron levels and it’s good affect on the liver; and Lifestream’s Bowel Biotics Fibre that includes psyllium husks and loads of pre and pro-biotics for great gut health. Throw in some coconut water and pineapple for its ability to stimulate digestive enzymes, and you’re on your way to achieving great health from the inside out.

Janella Purcell 2016

image credit to Urine Drug Test.

Adrenal Fatigue (AF): CAUSES

When our body perceives or is in danger, our adrenal glands will release stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This release should last about 20 minutes until we can get away from the danger, or kill and potentially eat the predator, then swiftly return to homeostasis (balance).

Nowadays we’re releasing stress hormones practically 24/7, even in our sleep. Cortisol creates chronic to severe inflammation that eventually causes premature ageing and leads to an earlier death. The adrenal glands are about the size of an almond that sit on top of your kidneys. They may be small but they pack a serious punch. Among their many responsibilities are controlling blood sugar, burning protein and fat, and regulating blood pressure.

The adrenal glands are endocrine glands (a collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things) that sit on top of your kidneys and are responsible for the production of a host of hormones and neurotransmitters – cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine. All of these have a massive impact on how you handle stress, look, feel, sleep, breed, handle illness and generally function.

These hormones and neurotransmitters being produced by the adrenal glands play a huge, and rather complicated role in your health and wellbeing. If you suffer with AF it can be the major cause of excess fat storage, irritability, brain fog, immune issues, a problematic gut, an achy body and extremely low energy levels.

AF can lead to Adrenal Collapse, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, thyroid issues, auto-immune disease, infertility, cancer, gut and immune issues, and many more health problems.

Causes

Continued negative thinking
Chronic fear, loneliness, anxiety, feeling unsafe, unworthy
Prolonged illness, surgery or injury
Emotional trauma, recent or distant
Chronic insomnia
Grief after the death of a loved one, miscarriage, infertitlity
Stressful experiences like divorce, relationship breakup, bullying, work stress, compassion fatigue, financial stress, sexual abuse
Some medications and long term intake of these
Exposure to environmental toxins and pollution

For ways to TREAT AF – See my other Blog posts. (Enter ‘Adrenal Fatigue’ into the search engine.)

Astrology By Alicia

Hi, I’m Alicia, lover of all things in the sky above. My wish is for astrology to bring understanding, insight and help others live a conscious life. This is some small insight into the month ahead, may it help you navigate with ease and grace! For more information, please visit my website www.futurefrequency.com.au

2018 – What’s your next move?

Mars is now getting his mojo back after his loooooong time of backwards motion (Mars doesn’t do backwards very well!). Mercury has left his last retrograde well behind and is speeding through the sky. Venus is gliding swanlike through the last degrees of her home zone of Libra. And that tricky eclipse season is finally over. So yes, things feel on the up and up, the path has smoothed out, the sun is shining, the birds are singing… what could go wrong?!

September sees Venus and Mars moving from dynamic cardinal signs into more staid fixed ones, and Mercury will change signs twice, so there could lots of chop and change after the inertia of the last few months. It’s just like a chess game, putting the pieces in place so you can take advantage of the opportunities that will open up as the year draws to a close. Keep a cool head and a close eye on the other player (which may just be the Universe), and you’ll be fine.

One thing to highlight this month is Mars revisiting the end of Capricorn and early Aquarius for a third time. Look out for themes in your life since early May, anything that may have felt frustrating, anger inducing, blocking or even wanting to completely cut-off or withdraw. Now you have your second chance, revisit what was happening, squeeze the last bit of understanding from it and heal so you can move beyond. Have a look at all you’ve learned and make a course correction, slight or not, as there is much more clarity about your purpose and what is driving you. If there have been hurts along the way, forgiveness works magic, and Jupiter in Scorpio can help us find joy in the darkest of places.

The key dates to keep in mind this month:

4 – 16 September – Mars square Venus

This energy lasts a while, and it starts off with Venus on her home ground in Libra and Mars feeling pretty uplifted in Capricorn so things seems easier as they’re both on their best behaviour. But when Venus moves into Scorpio the charm wears off and Mars into Aquarius the next day will see some containment and withdrawal. Competition in relationship may rear it’s head, causing you to assess your own value, what you feel you are worth and what you will NOT do. Causes of relationship conflict may need some more focus, especially if it’s conflict from mid-June still hanging over your head. It’s definitely a time to be honest and direct about your relationship needs, be willing to see from anothers perspective and to offer (and ask for) authenticity and freedom.

6 September – Mercury into Virgo

Mercury has picked up some serious speed and is finally moving out of Leo, where he has been since the beginning of July (again, another planet that doesn’t do well with sitting still or going slow). Now he’s in his home ground of Virgo, he’s pulling on his analytical glasses to examine all he’s learnt about himself in Leo, and work out how we can best be of service to the world around us. Refinement of mind is the hallmark of the next few weeks, and you may find your thinking patterns go more internal as Mercury gets closer to the Sun.

9 September – Venus into Scorpio

The image that springs to mind here is Kate Middleton in a burlesque bar: it isn’t really her kind of place and she won’t want media to see her there BUT she’ll probably make the most of it, pull out her charm and have some fun. Plus she’s got her friend Jupiter in there already, who’s bought her a drink, kept her seat warm and gathered a group of interesting people for her to meet. For us all it’s time to find pleasure and connection in the more intimate and vulnerable spaces. It can also bring healing and harmony to the pain that has been pulled into the light since Jupiter moved in there in October last year (#metoo).

10 September – New Moon in Virgo

Happening at 4:03am AEST, this New Moon will be focussed on creating a stable base of efficiency, discipline, order and refinement so we can perfect ourselves towards a higher purpose. Part of this is around a good routine and looking after our body and health – cleaning up our temple. It also rules our day-to-day work life and projects, as well as building a good service life that is focussed on helping others. More on this to come closer to the time.

11 September – Mars into Aquarius

We’re back in the territory Mars entered last on 17 May, with a focus on living our ideals and following our passion towards our higher purpose. Clarity and insight abound now, as progress picks up and we can finally move forward on whatever plans or projects have been put on hold since May. Being an air sign, listening to your rational mind and staying neutral will pay dividends in whatever path you decide to follow. It’s all big picture stuff, and the trials and tribulations of the last few months have given us all some new perspectives. Don’t be afraid to make the changes that are needed to let this fresh breeze blow away the cobwebs.

11 – 12 September – Mars, Venus – meet Uranus! Oh, and hello Ms Moon in Scorpio!

With Mars back into contained Aquarius, and Venus in the depths of Scorpio, both will come into contact with firecracker Uranus who is grinding his way through earthy Taurus. And just to add to the fun, the intensely emotional Moon in Scorpio will join the party. It’s like having dinner with family who don’t get along and you’re just waiting for something to explode. Fireworks are likely, and with our emotions in the driver seat we’re liable to be driving blind. There may be sudden urges to rush into something when it comes to partnership… just heed the old saying “Love in haste, repent at leisure” and you could also insert the word “hate” instead of love here too. Be conscious of impulsive spending on pleasurable things to try to feel better – self-worth was never found in the bottom of a shopping bag. Luckily Mars will meet up with fixed star Altair at the same time, and bring some of his high-minded wisdom into action. And remember while honesty is vital, it doesn’t need to be brutal!

Try using this time positively by:

· using your deep emotions or intuition to create something beautiful and unique… an art therapy workshop perhaps or just letting the creative juices flow without judgement.

· coming up with an out of the box idea with a business partner,

· surprising your loved one with a romantic adventure where you have space for just yourselves.

21 September – Mercury Cazimi at 28 Virgo

Or astrologer speak for a day of brilliant communication! When Mercury is right up close to the Sun (within 17 minutes), it gives an extra boost of energy to any Mercurial tasks. Think communication of any kind, so it’s a great day for writing, connecting with others, teaching or presenting, short trips, even organising or planning under this Virgo energy. Mercury will be cazimi the Sun between 3:51am and 7:51pm AEST that day, so make the most of it by holding any important conversations, signing contracts or making a proposals under it’s benefical and persuasive energies.

*A short note from Alicia: Mars is pretty strong in my chart (an understatement, but that’s for another time), and now it’s finally going direct I’m being dragged forwards, whether I like it or not, with things I promised myself to before the retrograde happened. Let’s just say this Mars retrograde has been full of revelations for me around what I say yes to, how I prioritise my time and my time management skills. So my apologies that this forecast is late and not in video. It’s also cut short because later in the month I’m moving to monthly forecasts that will follow the Sun changing signs. I believe this will offer a better and more consistent main backdrop to the month. It feels right to plan this with the Sun in Virgo bringing focus on the practical doing of things, looking at the purpose of our lives and becoming our best possible selves. On 23rd the next forecast will be released as the Sun moves into balanced, harmony seeking Libra. Until then, wishing you much success!

https://www.futurefrequency.com.au/blog/september-2018-what-s-your-next-move

Adrenal Fatigue: Lifestyle Recommendations

Keep it simple, by doing less. Practice ‘The Law Of Least Effort’, and follow these recommendations.

– Sleep and Naps: Aim to be in bed and asleep by 10pm, otherwise your adrenal glands will give you a second wind thinking you’re in danger/ fight or flight. You want to be asleep before you get the 11pm -1/2am energy burst, (that also makes you want to eat)! Try to get at least 8-10 hours a night as your adrenal glands recoup when you’re asleep; it’s one of the best tools for recovery. Daytime rest breaks are important throughout the day also. Anywhere from a quick 20 minute kip to 2 hours.

– Meditation: This is the best thing you can do for your adrenal glands. Full stop.

– Stress: Avoid situations, toxic chemicals, people, and thoughts that cause you pain and stress. It’s very important we manage our stress by learning a mediation technique and practicing Mindfulness. Do what makes you happy as much as you can. Avoid multi-tasking. Less is more.

– Avoid multi-tasking

– Reduce or eliminate recreational drugs and your alcohol intake, which both can make symptoms worse.

– Regular Exercise: Helps to improve hormonal balance and sleep quality. Follow this rule – go until you can’t anymore, rest until you can. Also reduce high intensity cardio’ exercises and replace them with gentle exercises, for now anyway. Avoid pushing yourself at all. Exercise produces cortisol, making AF worse. Go slow! Try Qi Going, restorative yoga, a beach walk and swim, mindful walking, gentle swimming or cycling. A good way to know if you’ve done too much, is how you feel after you exercise. If you’re exhausted – yep, too much.

– Toxic Chemicals: Reduce your exposure to these hormone disruptors as much as you can – in your cleaning products, cosmetics, home furnishings, and in your food. Go organic!

– Rule out Addison’s Disease (insufficient levels of cortisol in the blood) and Cushing’s Syndrome (excessive amounts).

For more on Adrenal Fatigue, check out my other posts.

Adrenal Fatigue: Treatment

DIET

I truly believe that the number one thing we need to ‘do’ here is not ‘do’, but BE. It’s important to take yourself easy during this time. It could take up to 3 years to fully recover from AF, and that’s only if you really, truly care for yourself, listen to your mind/body, and make the necessary changes to your diet, lifestyle and thought patterns. Remember, how you’ve been living up until now is how you got where you are, so some changes are needed in order for you to regain your health. You can heal from AF.

– Cut out white sugar and flour: They both need more insulin for the body to break them down, making extra work for the adrenal glands. Too much sugar increases blood lactate levels, which is acid-forming, so avoid it.

– Avoid caffeine, alcohol and energy drinks: Any drinks that contain caffeine drain the adrenal glands of energy, as does alcohol. Alcohol because the sugar will interfere with your blood sugar and your liver will be left to deal with the toxins inside your body.

– Cut out processed, highly refined and junk foods: These foods are particularly bad if you suffer from AF as they’re not supporting your body but depleting it further.

– Good quality protein: Nuts, legumes and lentils, sustainable fish, quinoa, spirulina, goats products, hemp, organic chicken and eggs are all great sources of protein. Red meat can return after your adrenals are functioning better. (Adjust this list to suit your individual intolerances.)

– Salt: Keep unrefined salt in your diet. Make it Celtic, Himalayan or Murray River salt, juts not refined, processed table salt.

– Vegetables are a crucial part of a healthy diet. We’re meant to be eating around 6 serves a day (300g) of veggies, and plant food should consist of about 75% of our diet. Adrenal Fatigue or not.

– Limit Fruit: Fruits contain both fructose and potassium, which should be avoided now. Some fruits like berries, kiwi and honeydew are ok now though.

– Breakfast: It is best to eat within an hour or 2 of waking up, and this should be before 10 am. This will help to restore your body’s blood sugar levels after the hours of sleeping, so that you’re not relying on your adrenal glands for energy. If you’re not a morning eater, then have one of my smoothies.

– Lunch: Around 12:00pm, as the body is quick to use up the energy gained from breakfast.

– Snack: between 2 pm and 3 pm, as there is a dip in cortisol levels at 3 or 4 pm. Try hummus and seed crackers; 4 brazil nuts; a green smoothie.

– Dinner: between 5pm and 6pm (ideally before 8pm), and it should be your lightest meal of the day. You can eat another healthy snack before you go to bed (early) if you need to, but try not to.

– Avoid going for instant energy: Often when we feel fatigued or stressed, we look for foods that will give us a fast burst of energy and make us feel good, short term. Usually the culprits are refined carbohydrates/sugar like, biscuits, cakes, lollies, chocolate; and caffeine and carbonated drinks.

– Eat good fats: Coconut oil (organic), I believe, is the healthiest saturated fat we can eat. It has the ability to balance thyroid function by promoting the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone, one of the building blocks our bodies use to produce hormones. Remove transfers and oils like canola, soy, cotton and corn as they are highly inflammatory foods, (and usually genetically engineered) that can contribute to AF. See Fats + Oils

– Avoid processed dairy: That means anything that’s not organic. If you’re having issues digesting even quality dairy then avoid it during your 30 day Reset, to allow your gut time to heal, then slowly start to reintroduce it. Start with fermented dairy like yoghurt, cottage cheese, lubne, quark and kefir, starting with goat’s and sheep’s products, and finally cow’s products.

– Fermented foods should be included in your diet. Not everyone can digest these foods in the beginning, so listen to your body’s own wisdom and gut. See Fermented Foods.

– Avoid artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucrolose and also high fructose corn syrup.

– Avoid all kinds of yeast including Brewer’s yeast in beer, baker’s yeast in bread and pasta, and nutritional yeast, as they will only feed any overgrowth of bacteria and fungi present in your gut.

– Include seaweeds. See Seaweeds

EcoBeautyEditor

This is a great website for all things natural in the world of beauty.

This is an interview Shannon did with me.

https://www.ecobeautyeditor.com/people/janella-purcell/

Adrenal Fatigue (AF)

Adrenal Fatigue is nothing new. Obviously we humans have lived through periods of chronic stress over the millennia, surviving terrible wars, famine, natural disasters and disease. It wasn’t until a French Doctor named Emile Sargent first described AF in medical literature in1898, after an epidemic of influenza, that it became part of our consciousness, and diagnoses, almost 100 years later.

Prolonged stress – physical, mental or emotional, which seems to be the norm’ in the 21 century, I believe is behind most of our health issues today. That, and toxic chemicals, and the two together are a disastrous combo’.

Symptoms – How many do you have?

Chronic fatigue, and not just tired, especially in the morning

Feeling overwhelmed

Weight gain, especially around the abdomen

Body aches

Trouble concentrating

Failing memory and recall

Fast nose breathing

Sagging skin, age spots, stretch marks, broken capillaries, skin tags around neck and groin, dry skin, cellulite

Attracted to alcohol

Low or no libido

Muscle aches and weakness

Bone loss

Low cortisol (after it being high for too long) increases inflammation in your body

Insomnia

Hair loss

Signs of blood sugar imbalance like crankiness, fatigue, intolerant, hungry with constant cravings

Craving for salty and sweet foods

Swollen ankles and aching calves – worse in the evening

Feeling dizzy and lightheaded when rising from sitting or lying, or getting out of the bath

Low or high blood pressure

Multiple food sensitivities

Premature ageing

Frequent urination

Increased sodium retention and water absorption in the intestines

Intolerance to potassium foods

Forgetting words mid sentence

Mood changes like irritability, depression, anxiety and frustration

Reproductive issues like ovarian cysts, Endo’, PCOS, irregular periods, and unexplained fertility.

Autoimmune patients will have low cortisol

High cortisol will interfere with the functioning of your white blood cells (immunity)

Elevated levels of cortisol, if prolonged, can lead to a breakdown of proteins and muscle wasting.

AF is often found holding hands with thyroid disease.

July is retrograde month…

Retrograde motion is a funny thing. Astronomers say it is entirely perspective driven as the retrograde planet doesn’t actually go backwards, and that is true (see this YouTube clip if you’d like to understand more). However, for us here on Earth the other planets in the sky operate as pipelines of stellar energy from the constellations beyond them, so we cannot ignore the emphasis of that planet’s seemingly extended journey through a particular constellation.

I am bringing this up is because a lot of planets retrograde right now. The outers (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) spend much of their time that way as Earth’s movement is much faster, so we’ll put them aside for now. Mar’s retrograde in Aquarius ( 27 June until 27 August) is already being felt. In some ways it is coming up as sluggish energy, or less power to get things done. It’s like your reserve tank of petrol has been emptied, there’s just nowhere to dig down deeper to. Impatience and frustration will come to the fore more easily now, especially if we don’t use it as a time for rest and restoration. It also brings out the darker side of Mars, think anger, rage, war; the smallest spark that can set off a raging fire. The horrendous fight that broke out during the basketball match in the Philippines a few days ago is, sadly, a perfect illustration of this energy.

For us in the southern hemispheres, it’s an ideal time. We’re in winter hibernation anyway as our bodies are naturally making more use of the lower temperatures and longer nights. Our northern hemisphere friends best make sure this summer is laidback and languid summer, with all serious plans on hold until September. Mars is a hot, dry planet, so make sure you drink lots of water and don’t overheat yourself. It also is a time for soothing foods full of healthy oils to put out its fires. Making rest an important part of our daily lives is something to add in here. As author Alex Soonjung-Kim Pang states, in his book on the subject, “When we take the right to rest, when we make rest fulfilling, and when we practice rest throughout our days and years, we also make our lives richer and more fulfilling.” Definitely a book to curl up with during the slower energy of these times.

As for other side of Mars coming out, it will take all we have in us to stay calm, centred and neutral. It’s a chance to do some resistance training to build different muscles – those of patience, calm and forgiveness. To grow patience in our lives by quelling our frustrations. To increase our calmness through rest, meditation and contemplation. To build forgiveness as we dwell on past battles or wounds. The lunar eclipse on July 28^th will trigger this point, so keep an eye on yourself and your reactions to any tension that may come up.

Mercury, the planet of communication, our mind, our intelligence, will also slow in it’s tracks and appear to move backwards from 25 July until 19 August. This is a time of rest for our minds, to turn inwards and examine our inner mental landscape. As it is happening in Leo, it I the perfect chance to examine ego, the big I self, and see just where it is leading us. Come from that small “i” place in yourself, the one that listens to the chatter of the monkey mind, and you may just uncover some interesting insights to help you move into more consciousness about what drives and operates in you. Mediation, contemplation, mindfulness – anything that will help you be in this space and operate from your core self.

Mercury rules all things communication related, as well as things that take us on short-trips. So expect problems that can involve you communicating such as computers going haywire, phones being lost, cars breaking down. I find the phone companies always have some big outage when Mercury goes retrograde. Mercury is a cold, dry planet, so keeping up with water and oils while it is highlighted will help, and perhaps it will help take some of the heat out of Mar’s fiery furnace.

Thankfully, there is optimistic light being shed by Jupiter as it turns forwards on 10 July… it will open the door to faith, belief and flow. Since March we’ve been spending time in the watery depths of Scorpio, meeting our inner demons and whatever else dark and mysterious that dwells down there. Now it’s time to rise up, and bring those demons into the light. It is like the hero of story coming out of their dark night of the soul; walking out of the battle, wounded but alive, empowered and ready to start a new life of freedom!

Alicia Shaich Yusuf – Astrologer

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Lifestyle Changes

– Exercise: 20 minutes of aerobic/cardio’ exercise daily will turn on the production of BDNF (brain-derived neurotropic factor), the brain’s ‘growth hormone’. Anything that increases your heart and breathing rate in a way that can be sustained for 20 mins or so. Brisk walking, running, swimming, a slow jog, cycling or Cross Trainer.
– Sleep: 8 hours a night is vital for brain health.
– Overnight Fasting: 14 to 16 hours of daily fasting is recommended. This has a lot to do with the ApoE4 gene and its inflammatory nature. Have your last meal at 5 pm, and breakfast the following day between 7-9am. This will be beneficial if only for 2 days a week.
– Reduce Stress.This is essential to help keep inflammation down.
– Gut Health: Address Leaky Gut and SIBO, as an unhealthy microbiome has been linked to AD, and your gut after all, is your second brain. The microbes living in your nose and sinuses have been getting lots of attention of late also. There needs to be a healthy balance.
– Prescription and over-the-counter drugs: Those taken to help you sleep, for allergies, reflux, pain and more are being increasingly linked to dementia.
– ‘The Vielight’: Dr. Lew Lim’s device stimulates the brain with near-infrared light. Using it for 20 mins a day has been found to boost cognition and reduce symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s.

– Electromagnetic exposure: Wireless technologies need to be avoided, or at least massively reduced. This particular type of radiation activates the voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) in your cells, and you’ll find most of these VGCCs in your brain, heart and male testes. Try removing wifi in your home/office, and use a plug-in chord instead to connect to the internet.
– Aluminium is toxic to the brain at high levels, and research has shown that an accumulation has been linked to the progression of this disease. Particularly avoid heating food in aluminium as the heat will release more toxic compounds.
– Alcohol is a toxin and can cause brain cells to die faster than normal, so avoid excessive amounts. Organic and preservative-free red wine is your best option.
– Microwave exposure and glyphosate (RoundUp) both disrupt our blood-brain barrier, and therefore mitochondrial dysfunction, which are among the most significant factors contributing to Alzheimer’s Disease.
– Exercise: Vital for the prevention and treatment of AD. Those who regularly physical active had the lowest levels of tangles and plaques on their PET scans, meaning they had a much lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Essential Oils

Frankincense and Rosemary are your oils of choice. HOW TO USE them…
– Add a few drop to your vaporiser.
– For people with sensitive skin, it is best to dilute oils with a carrier oil like coconut, olive, sweet almond, hemp, castor or jojoba before topical application. They each have their own unique benefits. Depending on the strength of the EO, and thickness of the carrier, add about 3-5 drops of EO per teaspoon of carrier oil.
– Place a few drops in a 25ml glass roller-ball bottle with a carrier oil of rosehip or fractionated coconut oil. Roll the blend over the skin.
– Apply a drop on an organic cotton ball or hanky and sniff it throughout the day
– Add a few drops to simmering water (or to a nebuliser, if you own one) for a steam treatment. The steam will also hydrate dry skin
– Add 5 drops to an aromatherapy diffuser/vaporiser
– Add 10 drops to your bath
– Add 20 drops to 3 tbsp of carrier oil and rub all over you body before you get in the bath or the shower.
– You could add few drops to a small spray bottle, fill with clean water and use as a spritz. It’s beautiful to do this in the warmer months using lavender or rose oil
– In cooking add 1-2 drops per recipe for a safe way to use some of the stronger oils like cinnamon, clove, peppermint and thyme.
– Oil Pulling is a safe way to use EO’s to help treat oral thrush and systemic infections. Blend just one drop each of the above oils with one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish in the mouth for 5-20 minutes.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog on my website.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Herbal Medicine

– Brain Function: especially Turmeric, Gingko, Lion’s Mane and Panax Ginseng
– Antioxidants like Green Tea, Pomegranate, Nigella, Cinnamon,
– Anti-diabetic like Gymnema and Nigella
– Gut Herbs, particularly anti-bacterial like Barberry and anti-candida like Usnea, Pau D’Arco, Thuja, Tulsi.
– Heart Health, if needed. Coleus and Hawthorne berries for balancing blood pressure, Gingko for circulation, and Motherwort.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Supplements

– Vitamin D: A severe deficiency may increase your risk of dementia by over 100%
– Omega 3 DHA: 1 gram daily.
– CoQ10 to oxygenate the blood
– Turmeric to reduce plaques and inflammation (image below)
– Medical Marijuana: Studies have shown that very small doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a chemical found in marijuana, can slow the production of beta-amyloid proteins, a key contributor to the progression of Alzheimer’s.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Foods To Avoid

– Studies show people with higher levels of pesticides in their blood, face a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
– Too many carbohydrates, especially from grains, cereals and sugars
– Farmed fish like fresh salmon and barramundi
– Mercury in tuna and dental fillings
– All processed and refined foods
– Sugar, in all its forms
– Tap water
– Foods packed in aluminium
– Toxic cookware and mattresses

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Foods To Include

Currently western medicine has no effective treatments, instead using medications to reduce dementia symptoms. The average person with Alzheimers is expected to live for eight years after symptoms begin, but before this is the huge toll this disease is having on the familiesdealing with it. Alzheimer’s disease typically affects people aged 65 years and over, although younger-onset Alzheimer’s is on this rise.

Your diet isa huge contributor, and probably the greatest risk factor. To help prevent Alzheimer’s we need to focus on a diet that fuels your brain and body with healthy fats, omits trans-fats and outer processed oils,, contains very little sugar, and is low incarbohydrates. This healthy way of eating is beneficial not only for Alzheimer’s, but diabetes and heart disease as well.

Include

– Organic, unprocessed food is essential

– The Mediterranean Diet has been shown to be one of the best ways of keeping the brain from developing the toxic plaques associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

– Whole grains, a few times a week and ensure they are properly prepared.

– Red meat: 60g once or twice a week (or less)

– Wild-caught seafood twice a week

– Fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens like spinach and kale and non-starchy veggies like eggplant, cauliflower, artichokes, tomatoes and fennel.

– Healthy fats like wild-caught fish, nuts, seeds, olives and their unrefined oils.

– Pulses, legumes and beans, properly prepared.

– Herbs and spices high in antioxidants like parsley, rosemary, oregano.

– Fermented dairy like yoghurt, kefir or quark, to create healthy bacteria in out gut and brain.

– Eggs, goat milk and poultry, organic of course.

– Tea and coffee, organic.

– Clean water. Avoid tap water.

– Red Wine, preferably organic and preservative -free

– Foods high in zinc like pepitas, oysters, organic fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir, beans and pulses, wild-caught fish and some organic grass-fed meats.

– Coconut oil and MCT, especially when coupled with a low carb’ diet, serves as brain fuel instead of glucose.

– Magnesium rich foods like green leafy veggies, dark chocolate, almonds, pumpkin seeds, yoghurt and kefir, avocado and black beans.

– Fibre: mostly from fruits and veggies, not grains and cereals.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: The Different Types.

1. Inflammatory or hot: Patients present with predominantly inflammatory symptoms.

2. Atrophic or cold: Partial or complete wasting away or decrease in the size of the brain.

3. Toxic or ‘vile’ Alzheimer’s: Patients have been exposed to high amounts of toxins.
4. There’s also a mixed type, called 1.5 or Diabetes Type 3, which is referred to as ‘sweet’, and is a subtype that involves both inflammation and atrophy due to insulin resistance and glucose-induced inflammation.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my website’s Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: Underlying Causes

Western medicine tells us Alzheimer’s disease is incurable with no known cause. However, recent discoveries are telling us that there is more than one cause, and if you find and address those factors, there’s much that can be done.

Insulin Resistance: Research has for some time been suggesting the connection between Alzheimer’s disease and insulin resistance; even slightly elevated blood sugar. Having diabetes or heart disease will also increase your risk, as all three conditions are associated with insulin resistance. Atherosclerosis, (stiffening of the arteries) has also been associated with the buildup of the beta-amyloid plaque in your brain that is used to diagnose Alzheimer’s.

Genes: It’s estimated that your genes account for less than 5 percent of Alzheimer’s cases. Even if you have inherited this “Alzheimer’s genes,” it doesn’t mean your fate is set in stone, as there is much you can do to prevent those genes from ‘expressing’, thereby significantly lowering your risk. The gene responsible for that 5% is thought to be the apolipoprotein E4 (APoE4) gene, but new research suggests another called TOMM40 is involved. APoE4 is thought to increase Alzheimer’s risk by influencing the buildup of amyloid plaque in the brain, but recent research revealed a TOMM40 variant may actually be more influential than APoE4, as its reduces the ability to hold onto new information, particularly verbal learning after the age 60. A TOMM40 variant may actually be more influential than APoE4 as TOMM40 appears to do this alone, without the help of APoE gene. And there is the possibly that other genes are involved, that we haven’t even started to look at yet. The causes of memory decline are even more complicated than we once thought.

Environmental Toxins: Causing free radical damage and vitamin deficiencies.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Alzheimer’s Disease Week: AD now the biggest killer of women in Australia.

Dementia, now the biggest killer of women in Australia, and affecting about 160,000 Australians, is a term used when the brain no longer functions as it should. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common reason for dementia, accounting for 50-75% of cases.

For the first time in 2016 dementia killed more women than heart disease, and only the third-leading cause of death for men. Heart disease remains Australia’s biggest killer, accounting for 12 per cent of all deaths. Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, came in second at 8.3 per cent, and stroke, was third at 6.6 per cent. But soon, dementia is likely to take the place as the biggest killer for both men and women as advancements in heart disease, prevention and treatment increase.

Theories as to what’s causing the dramatic increase in Alzheimer’s include an inability to properly useglucose, free radical damage/environmental toxins, and vitamin deficiencies.

For more info’ on Alzheimer’s Disease, check out my Blog.

Non-Toxic Cookware: What you need in your kitchen. What’s safe and what’s not?

November Blog – Lately you may have heard or read about non- stick pans being less than safe, even highly toxic. We spend so much time, energy and money on keeping our food clean and green, so why ruin all the good work by cooking it a vessel that is leaching heavy metals into our food – potentially contributing to disease. Like with so many things these days there’s much confusion over cookware – which pots and pans are safe and which ones aren’t, so I thought I’d take a look at what the safest options are for us to be cooking with and how many pieces do we really need.

[private]Personally I use a cast iron skillet for just about everything. Everything that needs a spatula or thongs rather than a spoon to cook that is. I cook omelets, tofu, tempeh, fish, dry roast my nuts and seeds, seriously pretty much everything gets cooked in it. It lives on the stove and I just wipe it out with a kitchen cloth or paper towel if it needs it but more often than not it doesn’t, and this is because it has been ‘well seasoned’. This is a term given when the pan has been used for a while and develops a coating of polymerized oil, which not only turns it into a nice non-stick surface, but also acts as a barrier between the iron and your food. It allows it to cook just beautifully getting a nice crust on your food without sticking. That means the searing and frying qualities improve with time.

The cast iron pan stays on top of my stove with one of those mesh shields over it (that you use to prevent oil splattering when cooking at higher temperatures), to stop anything untoward falling or getting in when I’m not using it. I love this pan and have given one to most members of my family. Because I love them also. We’ve been together a long time now (the pan and I) and it only cost me about $10 in a camping shop. Actually I think I bought it for a camping trip. They are still cheap and available in most kitchen shops and camping stores. They just keep getting better with age.

I also have 3 stainless steel pots. One really big one, I guess around 20 litres. I use this one to make big batches of veggie stock that I freeze. My father gave me this one – he used to cook the crabs he caught in it when we were kids. I have another that’s about 5 litres that I use for all my soups, Dahl’s and curry’s and also for cooking grains in, and a smaller one I use for boiling eggs or beetroot, or for times when I just need a smaller pot. I use this one the least and probably don’t really need it but when I’m making lots of different dishes say for a party or cooking baby food, then it comes in handy. I also have a wok, but I have to say I only use this for stir-fries and the very occasional time I deep fry. I recently acquired a stainless steel pressure cooker and it’s pretty amazing. I can make stock in 15-30 minutes instead of 2 hours (but it’s not always quite big enough for my batches of stock) and it cuts down the cooking time of dried legumes and grains in half. So if you’re eating a lot of legumes and/or grains or like to make one pot meals, then seriously think about getting one of these beauties. Cutting down on cooking time is of course saving energy (electricity or gas) as well, so a greener choice.

Non- stick pans that came out a few decades ago were sold to us as the next big thing. They allowed us to melt cheese in them without having to scrub the pan clean afterwards. (Who melts cheese in a pan anyway? The person who is doing this is probably melting it in a microwave.) So what’s wrong with them?

Non-stick cookware is sold under different trade names like Teflon, Excaliber, and Silverstone, the coatings are made with a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which itself is made from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOA has been linked to male infertility, pregnancy difficulties, high cholesterol and thyroid problems. This toxic stuff is awful of cause and needs to be avoided at all costs.

Sometimes the manufacturers get a bit sneaky and say their pans contain no Teflon, but they’re still coated with PTFE, so it’s still Teflon. PTFE coatings have been found to emit six different toxic chemicals and are linked to something called ‘Teflon flu’, characterized by headaches, backaches, and chills. We once heard these pan were ok as long as we don’t scratch them. Not true. These pans only need to be heated to a mere 40oC to leach their toxic chemicals. PTFE-based coatings emit ultrafine particulates when heated to 240°F. To put that into context when frying meat, a pan can reach anywhere from 200oC° to 245° – and PFOA is released when the pans reach 360°C. To let you know how easy it is to get your pan that hot – you can reach 390°C after preheating your pan for 3 minutes and 20 seconds.

PTFE-based nonstick coatings are sold under a number of brand names besides those mentioned above, so avoid anything advertised as Fluron, Supra, Greblon, Xylon, Duracote, Resistal, Autograph, Unison, Swiss Diamond, and T-Fal. This includes cookware as well as small appliances like toaster ovens.

Aluminum: we’ve all heard about the link between aluminium and Alzheimer’s and many of us have thrown out our aluminium pans in favour of non stick pot and pans. Was this a good idea? Is aluminium that bad? Yes it is. It’s a great heat conductor and it evenly distributes heat without the high price tag but this is where its virtues end. Aluminum has been linked to bone and brain damage and has been found to interfere with the central nervous system. Some studies have shown that it does cause cancer in estrogen receptors in human breast tissue. In cookware, it reacts with highly acidic or salty foods, imparting a yucky metallic flavor to your food. Some studies have shown that when heated and in contact with an acid (like tomato sauce), potentially dangerous aluminum salts can leech into the food. Allowing the aluminium to ‘touch’ your food is where the problems begin. So manufacture’s now ‘anodize’ the aluminum. This happens by dipping a piece of aluminum cookware into an acid bath, and running an electrical current through it. This causes ‘controlled rusting’ which forms a hard coating that prevents food from reacting with the metal. In theory it’s a good idea, to coat the aluminium, but repeated exposure to acidic foods like tomato sauce can cause ‘de-anodization’ which means we’re back to where we started – having the aluminum touching your food. But really, you’d need to be doing a lot of slow cooking of acidic foods. And some leading manufacturers of anodized cookware still add PTFE and PFOA/Teflon-type toxic nonstick material to its coatings.

Most aluminium pots and pans these days are anodized, so you’ll rarely find a straight up aluminium piece. If you’re careful not to use any metal utensils in an anodized aluminum pan – because many are only anodized on the surface, and the oxide coating can possibly scratch and lead to aluminum leaching – and you don’t slow cook acidic foods for too long too often, you should be ok with this type of pot. So if you’re going this way, be sure to look for very high quality anodized cookware, which doesn’t have a chemical nonstick coating. These brands are obviously more expensive – but worth it for your health. Le Cruset is at the top of your wish list here but there are also less pricey alternatives available.

Better Options

Cast iron

Sure they’re heavy – so leave it on the stove if you’re using it all the time. This cookware is for those of use who appreciate even heating, reliable heat retention, and extreme durability – without the chemicals. This stuff has been used for centuries.

There are some concerns about cast iron leaching actual iron into your food. Some say that this is a good thing—since many people are anemic, or iron-deficient. But there’s also the argument that you could be ingesting too much iron, since excess levels of iron in the blood can be a problem. You can reduce this significantly by simply keeping your cast iron well seasoned. The seasoning is basically a layer of crystallized (polymerized is the technical term) oil, which sits on top of the actual iron itself (and in between it and your food). Also, it’s best to avoid cooking things, which are very wet—like sauces—in cast iron, as well as things, which are highly acidic—like tomatoes. This not only draws iron out of the pan and into your food, but also can break down your seasoning, and you really don’t want that to happen. So keep cast iron for your skillet (flat pan) and use it for short term cooking only. If it’s saucy, wet, or acidic, use a different piece of cookware made from either enamel-coated cast iron or stainless steel.

Enamel coated cast iron or steel.

Enamel-coated cast iron skillets have all the benefits of cast iron, without the possibility of the metal reacting to foods and leaching. And, they are low-maintenance, as they’re naturally non-stick and non-porous without any seasoning to maintain. High-quality enamel coating is non-reactive and safe for all types of cooking. Lesser-quality enamel may contain lead, or may chip, allowing less than safe material underneath the coating to leach into food. They have the same heat distribution and other benefits of traditional cast iron, but the porcelain enamel makes them easier to clean, and without the toxic properties of Teflon. And they are more expensive.

Glass

Many glass dishes aren’t safe top use on the stovetop, but for baking glass is an essential part of your non-toxic cookware. Pyrex is still one of the most popular makers of glass bake ware, still uses the same soda lime base that it developed in the 1940s, and it’s also reliable and durable enough that you can use pieces your Grandma gave you. I sometimes find gorgeous pieces in vintage and second hand shops – at great prices.

Copper

The excellent heat conduction properties of copper make it an obvious choice for cookware; it’s especially responsive to changes in temperature from the heat source, so when you turn down the burner just prior to your dinner burning, the pans can adjust. But they also offer the potential for metals leech into your food, so choosing a pan that’s lined with stainless steel. Again use wooden utensils so you don’t scratch the stainless steel, which can also leech.

Ceramic Cookware and Bake ware

The beauty of this type of cookware is that it can go right from the freezer to the oven or stovetop safely. The interior ceramic glaze is non-toxic and the non-reactive and pieces usually come with a 50-year guarantee. Great for pies, casseroles, soups, curry and anything else you want to make bulk of and freeze, or not. This type of cookware isn’t expensive and again looks out for it in second hand shops.

Stainless steel

As always, buy the best you can afford. Quality matters. Stainless steel is made up not just of carbon steel, but other metals like chromium and nickel, so you want the highest-quality stainless steel, and this means one that contains less of the cheap heavy metals as filler. The less ‘nickel’ the better, as it is toxic and can leach from the steel into your food. High-quality stainless steel will have some levels of nickel but it will be constructed in a way that makes it resistant to corrosion and leaching or reactivity. To be on the safe side though, avoid cooking foods for a long time or storing acidic foods in stainless steel, as acids are what can react with the metal causing it to leach.

Stainless steel is a great choice for most types of cooking, but if you’re going to be cooking a giant batch of something with a tomato base, like chili or tomato sauce, simmered on the stove for hours on end, then I’d probably suggest going with an enamel-coated stock pot. All Clad is generally considered to be the best when it comes to stainless steel, and rightly so. They’ve been around for ages and deserve their solid reputation. Their products are well constructed with heat-conducting aluminum sandwiched between layers of quality magnetic steel. On the pricey end.

Terra cotta

This old favourite takes a similar approach to non-stick coatings, covering its cookware with a product called SandFlow, which is made without PTFE or PFOA (both toxic carinogens). Even better, some coatings are applied and attached using water instead of the dodgy, toxic solvent. Avoid metal utensils and the pans will stay in good condition for years, and they are three times more durable than ceramic-based surfaces. These are affordable cookware. Also checkout retro and second hand stores.

Bake ware

A lot of the equipment used in baking these days is non- stick, and we know what that means – toxic once heated. Non-stick baking dishes, cookie sheets, muffin trays and cake tins give off dangerous chemicals into the air when they’re heated. These are to be avoided. What about aluminum?

Regular aluminum that isn’t coated with nonstick chemicals isn’t ideal, but doesn’t mean you have to toss your aluminum just yet. The real danger with aluminum bake ware is that it can leach the toxic heavy metal into your food—but you’re only at risk for that when it’s touching the aluminum. So, for cookie sheets and muffin tins at least, an easy fix is to use parchment paper or reusable silicone baking mats, unbleached paper cupcake liners or silicone muffin tin liners. Just make sure the aluminum isn’t touching your food.

I love glass pieces and enamel-coated stoneware for baking, with some stainless steel items thrown in there too. Pyrex glass dishes are always a good choice for baking. Stainless steel is your best bet for cookie and baking sheets.

Again Pyrex is a good choice also for baking sheets, pie and quiche dishes or enamel coated.

For a muffin tin, really any aluminium one that’s not non-stick will do. You can get stainless steel ones but check the quality to ensure there’s little nickel. They’re expensive so you want to know you [re getting your monies worth.

Most round cake pans are made with aluminum so either line them with non-bleached paper, or use a stainless tell one.

Spring-form pans are also usually made with aluminum, so either line them with non-bleached paper or get a silicon spring-form with a glass base.

A stainless steel roasting pan—as opposed to aluminum or nonstick—is a great piece to have in your kitchen

So that’s it – the low down on toxic cookware and just what pieces you need in your kitchen for what.

Remember to recycle old pans by using them for camping, for the kids’ play kitchen or even to plant your herbs op flowers in, or you can always pass your old cookware on.

Having non-toxic cookware is all part of having a cleaner and greener life. The less chemicals the better – for you and planet and our meals.

With love and chemical free cooking,

Janella[/private]

Janella’s Cleanse Week: CHARCOAL.

Activated charcoal helps the body flush out the toxins and chemicals that cause damage.

Environmental toxins need to be eliminated regularly, as they burden our system via pesticides on food, chemicals in the water we drink and shower in, in cosmetics and cleaning products, and exposure to mould.

Activated #charcoal can help to reduce joint pain, increase energy and improve mental function and help promote a healthy digestive tract by removing toxic build-up.

For a cleanse – take 10 grams 90 minutes prior to each meal, for two days.

Healing naturally. The power of herbal medicine and food as support.

In today’s busy and often over-medicated world, many Australians are going back to wellness basics. They are embracing herbal medicine, natural foods, and traditional healing practices to support their physical and emotional balance. This shift towards natural living is not just a trend. It is a choice to care for the body in a sustainable, empowering, and nourishing way.

What is Herbal Medicine?

This involves using plants and plant extracts to support health and treat illness. It is one of the oldest ways to heal. It has roots in many traditional systems. These include Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, as well as Indigenous Australian bush remedies. In recent years, in Australia, it has grown in popularity. This is due to its gentle and effective approach. It focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Herbs like ashwagandha, turmeric, sage, and chasteberry are often used for many health problems. They can help reduce stress, support hormone balance, and improve digestion and immunity. These natural remedies work well with the body. They have fewer side effects than synthetic options and support long-term health.

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Food as Medicine

Alongside herbs, food plays a central role in natural healing. Using whole, organic, and seasonal ingredients helps lower the body’s toxic load. It also supports gut health and helps every system work well. Through natural cooking, we can fuel ourselves with life-giving nutrients that support energy, clarity, emotional stability, and physical resilience.

Author and naturopath Janella Purcell is a leading voice in this space. She provides recipes, advice, and tips on how food and herbs can help with many problems. These include everyday tiredness and more serious issues like hormonal imbalance and skin problems. Her philosophy is simple: eat real food, live consciously, and treat your body with kindness.

Janella’s approach combines Herbal medicine with naturopathy and wholefood nutrition, making it accessible and practical for everyday Australians. Her blog has educational posts about real-life issues. These include natural remedies for menopause, food intolerances, and emotional wellbeing. It offers a complete guide for living well.

Superfoods and Their Impact
Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods that offer exceptional health benefits. These include everyday favourites like blueberries, kale, chia seeds, turmeric, and spirulina. No food is a magic cure, but adding superfoods to your meals can have a strong positive effect.

They are known to reduce inflammation and improve gut health. They can help balance hormones and support clearer skin. This makes them a great option for those seeking natural and gentle acne solutions.

For people with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema, a clean, wholefood diet can help. This is where working with a naturopath eczema specialist, such as Janella, can be particularly beneficial. Using natural treatments, soothing herbs, and dietary changes, eczema sufferers often see dramatic improvements without relying on steroid creams or antibiotics.

Supporting Women Naturally
Hormonal health is another area where it shines—especially during menopause. Many women experience hot flashes, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. Many women are now looking for natural remedies for menopause instead of hormone replacement therapy. Some of these remedies include herbs like black cohosh and red clover, as well as adaptogens like maca.

These herbs, along with healthy superfoods and calming practices like meditation and yoga, help women feel safe and supported. They can move through this stage of life with confidence and ease.

Janella writes about these changes in this Resources page. She shares tools and tips to help manage menopause naturally, without fear or confusion. Her advice combines evidence-based Herbal medicine with lifestyle guidance that reflects decades of clinical practice.

Emotional and Mental Wellbeing
It’s not just the body that benefits from natural foods and Herbal medicine—the mind does too. Chronic stress, anxiety, and burnout are at an all-time high. Eating poorly, skipping meals, or relying on processed foods can spike cortisol, affect sleep, and contribute to emotional instability.

Natural foods, superfoods, and Herbal medicine can help regulate stress hormones and nourish the nervous system. Herbs such as lemon balm, passionflower, and rhodiola are known to calm the mind. They are often suggested for people who want to boost their mood and mental clarity without using drugs.

This is part of the holistic approach Janella champions so well—caring for the whole person, body and soul.

The journey to wellness doesn’t have to be complex. By embracing Herbal medicine, natural cooking, and incorporating superfoods, we begin to shift from managing symptoms to truly healing. Whether you’re looking for natural remedies for menopause, gentle acne solutions natural, or support for chronic conditions like eczema, there’s power in returning to nature.

Through her compassionate voice and rich resource of information Janella offers Australians a path to vibrant, holistic health. It reminds us that we can find what we need to feel better in simple places. We can feel stronger, calmer, and clearer. Often, this can be found in our gardens, kitchens, and the wisdom of our ancestors.

Let food be your medicine, and let your healing begin naturally.

Living With Nature’s Rhythms...one season at a time.

Red Meat

Pork

Herbal medicine Australia

Healing naturally. The power of herbal medicine and food as support.

What is Herbal Medicine?

Food as Medicine