PROBIOTICS EFFECTS BRAIN FUNCTION

images-4UCLA researchers now have the first evidence that bacteria ingested in food can affect brain function in humans. In an early proof-of-concept study of healthy women, they found that women who regularly consumed beneficial bacteria known as probiotics through yogurt showed altered brain function, both while in a resting state and in response to an emotion-recognition task. Continue reading

TREAT INSOMNIA WITH ACUPUNCTURE

images-3Some reports suggest that certain acupuncture procedures have a nearly 90% success rate for the treatment of insomnia. Through a complex series of signals to the brain, acupuncture increases the amount of certain substances in the brain, such as serotonin, which promote relaxation and sleep. Continue reading

CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE FOR ENDOMETROSIS

imagesTraditional Chinese herbal medicines can help relieve the pain of endometriosis as well as the prescription drugs normally used, and they also cause fewer side effects. British researchers who reviewed two trials that included a total of 158 women found that a preparation of Chinese herbs provided relief comparable to the drug gestrinone with fewer side effects. Continue reading

SPRING FULL MOON CELEBARATION

Spring Full Moon

Written by Lisa Hampton,
MS-Founder, Mindful Fitness

Blossom in epic expression! Spring is a time of celebration as we emerge from the darkness and into the light. A full moon rises and we draw upon its energies to release what no longer serves our highest potential and focus on the new and vibrant within us. It’s the perfect time to ‘spring clean’ your self-care program including nutrition, exercise, relaxation and spiritual practices. As we shine with possibilities, we embrace the changes of this inspiring season.
10 Mindful Ways to Enjoy Spring Continue reading

CORYDALIS: Is This Right for You?

Corydalis blossom in the spring woods
by The Dr. Oz Show

Corydalis is an herb often used in traditional Chinese medicine for pain relief. Experts say it can be used for headaches, menstrual pain and back pain – even back pain caused by nerve problems or muscle spasms.

Though corydalis has been used since ancient times, much of the modern research done on corydalis so far is still in early stages. Studies done in animals suggest that corydalis may be effective at treating pain triggered by cold and may help block inflammation and nerve pain. Continue reading

SOOTHING EYE COMPRESS

Soothing Eye Compress

2 cups (500ml) water
2 teaspoons (10ml) of dried lavender buds or calendula petals

Directions: Bring the water to boil. Remove from heat add flowers and cover. Steep for 15 minutes, then place in the refrigerator and allow cooling for 1 hour. Strain. Keep refrigerated and use within 4 days.

Apply to a cotton pad. Press the pad onto closed eyelids and keep it on for at least 5 minutes. Do not use if you are allergic to lavender or calendula.

QI BAI GAO – brighten the skin facial wash

This facial wash can be used for regular skin care, especially for age/dark spots, facial discolorations, brightening the skin, and dry skin conditions.

Clean the below herbs, then grind them together into a fine powder. Mix the powder with egg white to form a thick paste and make into small balls. Sun dry the herbal ball.

Usage: After washing the face, take a small ball and dissolve it in a small container of warm water and apply to entire face and neck. Leave for few minutes then remove with damp towel and wash with cool water. Apply moisturizer. Use 2 to 3 times a week.

Ingredients:
1 gram of each herb
• Bai Zhi/ Angelica Dahurica root
• Bai lian/Ampelopsis japonica root
• Bai zhu/Atractylodes macrocephalae
• Bai fu zi/Typhonium Tuber
• Bai fu ling /Poria cocos fungus
• Bai ji/Tribulus terrestris fruit