Don't fall victim to cancer; learn how to battle the disease and win
by: Julie Wilson
cancer prevention, holistic medicine, anti-cancer
(DrEddyClinic News) How to Fight Cancer & Win, by William L. Fisher, is an amazingly informative book about cancer, its causes, and advice on how to beat it. It was published in the 90s, but is as relevant today as it was then, presenting a host of "scientific guidelines and documented facts for the successful treatment and prevention of cancerhttp://preventcancer.news/ and other health problems." The following is an excerpt from the book:
What it is
Cancer in man is a group of related diseases (over 100) that may develop in any part of the body. It can strike anyone of any age but comes more frequently as we get older. One death in every four in the United States comes from cancer.
Statistics show that over 66 million Americans now living will eventually develop cancer. It occurs in just about three out of every four families in the United States and kills more children between the ages of 3 and 14 than any other disease.
But a diagnosis of cancer is not necessarily a death sentence. Dr. Vincent T. DeVita, Jr., former director of the National Cancer Institute, says, "The American people are unduly pessimistic about what happens to them when they have cancer. Truly, half the cancers in this country are curable."
Statistics from the N.C.I, show steady progress against this most feared of all diseases. In the 1930s, less than 20 percent of cancer victims survived for five years. By the 1940s, the five-year rate of survival had grown to 25 percent.
Today, over 50 percent of diagnosed cancer patients survive to reach the magic number of five years. Children have fared even better. At least 60 percent are expected to be among those surviving for five years.
What it does
How does this killer operate? In brief, cancer is the uncontrolled and disorderly multiplication of abnormal cells that form a malignant tumor (neoplasm) that is usually identified medically as a carcinoma or sarcoma, depending on what part of the body is involved.
The main difference between benign and malignant tumors is that benign tumors are usually enclosed within a capsule composed of a membrane of connective tissue. Benign tumors don't spread, and degenerative cell changes are much less frequent than in malignant tumors.
But a cancerous cell operates outside natural law. Cancer destroys life by invading an essential organ where it grows out of control. When it expands to the point where the organ can no longer carry on its essential function, death inevitably follows.
Dr. Lance Liotta, chief of the NCI's Laboratory of Pathology, explains, "Cancer invasion and metastasis (spreading) is the main cause of treatment failure. That is really what kills the patient in most cases."
The human body is a gigantic collection of cells. Cells and the products of cells make up all the tissues and organs of the body. All bodily functions are carried on by cells. Cells of one tissue differ from those of other tissues, depending on what function they perform.
The chromosomes contained in the nucleus of each cell carry the programming that determines how the cell will function in the body.
Normal Cell Division
New cells develop only from preexisting cells and come into being by a process called mitosis, or cell division. During mitosis, the cell's chromosomes divide and move to opposite sides of the original cell. Upon completion of the last of the four phases of mitosis, each of the two new daughter cells is an exact duplicate of the original cell, complete with a full set of programmed chromosomes that tell it what to do and how to function.
ONCOGENES - This term comes from the Greek word "onko," or tumor, and signifies a gene with the potential to cause a cancerous tumor http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=70&t=496. Packed into each and every cell in our body are upward of 50,000 bits of information called genes.
Genes comprise the genetic code for all parts of our bodies. Among the 50,000 genes present in each cell, science has identified about 20 different proto-oncogenes in perfectly normal genetic material. This means that every single one of us carries proto-oncogenes capable of developing into cancer http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=94&t=31029.
Since proto-oncogenes are present in all normal cells, the question is "What turns them on?" Why do some unfortunate individuals develop cancer while others, even those in the same household, do not?
Researchers are working overtime to target the triggers. Certain external factors (including chemicals, viruses, and exposure to radiation) are being investigated because of their ability to cause gene mutations.
To read more from How to Fight Cancer & Win, pick up a copy here http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1891434012/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1891434012&linkCode=as2&tag=dreddyclinic-20&linkId=NH7UFFXEAHDXDND5, today.
Sources:
Fischer, William L. (2000) How to Fight Cancer & Win: Agora Health Books
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=70&t=496
5 Health Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil
(DrEddyClinic News) Hemp seed oil is a great source of high-quality nutrients and has a long history of use in Eastern culture as a multi-purpose natural remedy. Despite its widespread popularity, prejudice related to its association with cannabis has kept it from common use in the West. While the oil contains virtually no THC http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=33620, the psychoactive element in cannabis, hemp oil is still considered sketchy to some. Thankfully, education is prevailing and the market for hemp seed oil is growing in the United States, with an increasing number of people seeking it out for its reported health benefits.
1. Good for Heart Health
Hemp seed oil has a 3:1 ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, a balance that has been shown to support heart health http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=106&t=32685 and promote proper cardiovascular function. [1] These nutrients play a role in many biological processes and may help prevent a number of degenerative diseases. [2]
2. Supports Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails
Hemp seed oil is often used as a moisturizer for the skin, and for good reason. Studies have indicated that hemp seed oil can dramatically decrease skin dryness to alleviate itching and irritation. [3] Moreover, the antioxidant http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32801 and anti-inflammatory properties may protect against the aging process while soothing the skin. [4]
3. Excellent Nutrition for Your Brain
Hemp seed oil contains essential fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that are required for brain development. DHA http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33213 is crucial to the health of the brain as well as the retina of the eye, particularly in the first year of life. [5] Mothers who supplement with hempseed oil during pregnancy may provide brain- and eye-protective benefits for the developing baby.
4. It’s a Mercury-Free Fatty Acid Supplement
Taking a fish oil supplement can be a helpful way to increase omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, a nutrient that is essential for brain development, immune system health, and mood regulation. [6] [7] [8] Expectant mothers certainly want to include these nutrients in their diet; however, fish contains a great deal of mercury http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=32335 which can hinder neurological and developmental mechanisms in the unborn baby. Fortunately, hemp seed oil works as a terrific alternative to traditional omega-3 fatty acid supplements and doesn’t carry the same risk of mercury ingestion. [9]
5. Supports the Immune System
The essential fatty acids in hemp seed oil have been shown to promote healthy flora in the intestines and support immune system response http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=32611 and function. [10] This can be very helpful during the cold and flu season when viruses are running rampant at school, work, and in everyday social interactions.
Is hemp seed oil part of your life? If so, what do you use it for? We’d love for you to leave a comment and share your experience!
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
1. Gavel NT, Edel AL, Bassett CM, Weber AM, Merchant M, Rodriguez-Leyva D, Pierce GN. The effect of dietary hempseed on atherogenesis and contractile function in aortae from hypercholesterolemic rabbits http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21893466. Acta Physiologica Hungarica. 2011 September;98(3):273-83. doi: 10.1556/APhysiol.98.2011.3.4.
2. A. P. Simopoulos. Evoluntionary aspects of diet, the omega-6/omega-3 ratio and genetic variation: nutritional implications for chronic diseases http://www.direct-ms.org/pdf/NutritionFats/Simopoulos%20Omega%20ratio%2006.pdf. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 28 July 2006. 60 (2006) 502-507.
3. Callaway J, Schwab U, Harvima I, Halonen P, Mykkänen O, Hyvonen P, Jarvinen T. Efficacy of dietary hempseed oil in patients with atopic dermatitis http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16019622. The Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 2005 April;16(2):87-94.
4. Sapino S, Carlotti Me, Peira E, Gallarate M. Hemp-seed and olive oils: their stability against oxidation and use in O/W emulsions http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16130045. Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2005 July-August;56(4):227-51.
5. Connor WE, Neuringer M. The effects of n-3 fatty acid deficiency and repletion upon the fatty acid composition and function of the brain and retina http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/3241811. Progress in Clinical and Biological Research. 1988, 282:275-294.
6. Bourre JM. Roles of unsaturated fatty acids (especially omega-3 fatty acids) in the brain at various ages and during ageing http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15129302. The Journal of Nutrition Health and Aging. 2004;8(3):163-74.
7. Ergas D, Eilat E, Mendlovic S, Sthoeger ZM. n-3 fatty acids and the immune system in autoimmunity http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11802309. The Israel Medical Association Journal. 2002 January;4(1):34-8.
8. Peet M, Stokes C. Omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of psychiatric disorders http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15907142. Drugs. 2005;65(8):1051-9.
9. Emily Oken, Robert O. Wright, […], and Matthew W. Gillman. Maternal Fish Consumption, Hair Mercury, and Infant Cognition in a U.S. Cohort http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1281283/. Environmental Health Perspectives. October 2005; 113(10): 1376-1380.
10. Fritsche K. Fatty acids as modulators of the immune response http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16848700. Annual Review of Nutrition. 2006;26:45-73.
The 9 Best Herbs for Lung Cleansing and Respiratory Support
(DrEddyClinic News) Your respiratory system is constantly working. All day, every day, it is the vehicle for oxygen to enter your body. Unfortunately, it can also be an entry point for pollutants, irritants, dust, mold, fungus, harmful organisms, and other toxins. Unless you’re living in a bubble, the constant assault from impurities can take its toll. Fortunately, whether you’re experiencing the negative effects of inhaling toxins, or simply want to ensure your lungs are always at peak performance, nature has provided a number of herbs and botanicals that provide deep nutrition for the respiratory system.
How are Herbs Beneficial for the Respiratory System?
Herbs that support lung health typically do so by offering one or more of the following benefits:
- They may be an expectorant — which helps break up and expel chest congestion.
- Soothe irritated nasal passages and airways.
- Relax the muscles near the upper respiratory system to quell a cough.
- Calm the release of histamines.
- Fight the harmful organisms that can produce upper respiratory problems.
- They may be a source of antioxidants and reduce oxidative damage and redness.
- Let’s take a look at the nine best herbs for respiratory health!
1. Eucalyptus
Native to Australia, eucalyptus isn’t just for Koala bears! Aborigines, Germans, and Americans have all used the refreshing aroma of eucalyptus to promote respiratory health and soothe throat irritation. Eucalyptus http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33696 is a common ingredient in cough lozenges and syrups and its effectiveness is due to a compound called cineole. Cineole has numerous benefits — it’s an expectorant, can ease a cough, fights congestion, and soothes irritated sinus passages. As an added bonus, because eucalyptus contains antioxidants, it supports the immune system during a cold or other illness.
2. Lungwort
Lungwort http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33692 is a flowering rhizomatous that actually resembles lung tissue in appearance. However, this natural remedy doesn’t just look the part. As early as the 1600’s, lungwort has been used to promote lung and respiratory health and clear congestion. Lungwort also contains compounds that are powerfully effective against harmful organisms that affect respiratory health.
3. Oregano
Although oregano contains the vitamins and nutrients required by the immune system, its primary benefits are owed to its carvacrol and rosmarinic acid content. Both compounds are natural decongestants and histamine reducers that have direct, positive benefits on the respiratory tract http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33701 and nasal passage airflow. Oregano has so many health benefits http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=33706 that a bottle of organic oregano oil should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet. I recommend you check out this article to learn all the uses for organic oregano oil http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=33706.
4. Plantain Leaf
The plantain http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=33693 leaf has been used for hundreds of years to ease cough and soothe irritated mucous membranes. Clinical trials have found it favorable against cough, cold, and lung irritation. Plantain leaf has an added bonus in that it may help relieve a dry cough by spawning mucus production in the lungs. Good stuff!
5. Elecampane
The Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and even Indian Ayurvedic medicine have cited elecampane http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33688 for respiratory support and, since the 1800’s, lozenges and cough drops have been produced from elecampane root. The reason? Elecampane has a relaxing effect on smooth tracheal muscles. There are two active compounds in elecampane root that provide the beneficial effect — inulin, which soothes bronchial passage, and alantolactone, an expectorant with antitussive action.
6. Lobelia
Did you know that horses given lobelia are able to breath more deeply? Its benefits are not limited to equestrians. Lobelia, by some accounts, is thought to be one of the most valuable herbal remedies in existence. Lobelia http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33694 contains an alkaloid known as lobeline, which thins mucus, breaks up congestion. Additionally, lobelia stimulates the adrenal glands to release epinephrine, in effect, this relaxes the airways and allows for easier breathing. Also, because lobelia helps to relax smooth muscles, it is included in many cough and cold remedies. Lobelia should be part of everyone’s respiratory support protocol!
7. Chaparral
Chaparral, a plant native to the southwest, has been appreciated by the Native Americans for lung detoxification and respiratory support http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33715. Chaparral contains powerful antioxidants that resist irritation and NDGA which is known to fight histamine response. Chaparral is also an herb that fights harmful organisms. The benefits of chaparral are most available in a tincture extraction but chaparral tea may support respiratory problems by encouraging an expectorant action to clear airways of mucus.
8. Peppermint
Peppermint http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33691, and peppermint oil http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33702, contains menthol — a soothing ingredient known to relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract and promote free breathing. Paired with the antihistamine effect of peppermint, menthol is a fantastic decongestant. Many people use therapeutic chest balms and other inhalants that contain menthol to help break up congestion. Additionally, peppermint is an antioxidant and fights harmful organisms.
9. Osha Root
Osha http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33690 is an herb native to the Rocky Mountain area and has historically been used by the Native Americans for respiratory support. The roots of the plant contain camphor and other compounds which make it one of the best lung-support herbs in America. One of the main benefits of osha root is that it helps increase circulation to the lungs, which makes it easier to take deep breaths. Also… when seasonal sensitivities flare up your sinuses, osha root, which is not an actual antihistamine, does produce a similar effect and may be help calm respiratory irritation!
Supplementing with Lung Support Herbs
All of the above herbs are available, in various forms, as nutritional supplements and in tea blends. Additionally, many people grow herbs in their garden and simply consume them as food. That’s not a bad idea! If you grow them yourself, you can rest easy knowing the source is a good one. If not, it can be difficult to know if nutritional supplements use herbs that are organic, contain pesticides, ethically harvested, given clean water, etc. These are not factors for which you can or simply should assume the best — ask questions and verify that you’re getting the best product possible. To make it easy, I recommend Allertrex http://bit.ly/dreddyclinic-allertrex, which contains all the herbs listed above except for oregano and osha root – organic and wildcrafted – as well as lovage http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=33970, bee balm, orange peel http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=34141, menthol crystals http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=34206, and nascent iodine http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=33657.
Have you used any of these natural remedies to support your respiratory health? What benefits did you notice? Please leave a comment below and share your experience with us!
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
