Essential Oils That Help Labor

(Be Well Buzz) These essential oils can be used to help breathing and calming for the mind of mother to be and also physically it helps to reduce the pain and cramps.

Using essential oils during this process helps to ease some of the discomforts of labor, give Mom’s the strength she needs to pursue the birth she desires, create a calm and serene atmosphere, and help to change the birthing rooms to more of a welcoming place, to name a few.

During early labor using lavender to calm the early jitters, both for Mom and her partner by diffusing in the room or using with a carrier oil for light massage.

As labor progresses, Jasmine is a wonderful oil to use. It helps to increase the intensity of the contractions but also acts as an analgesic, helping to take away some of the sensations of the contractions. This can be used on the lower abdomen or used with a carrier oil for massage.

If labor has slowed and needs a bit of a boost, Myrrh can pick things up. You can diffuse it in the room or put it on a cotton ball near the mother. So often the intensity of the contractions will pick up right away and the aroma of the oil can then become an irritant to her.

Black Pepper is a great oil for back labor. Clove or nutmeg can also be used for this same issue. Use care when using these oils as there can be skin sensitivity to them.

Rose Oil is euphoric, it works as a uterine relaxant and it helps ligaments to soften enabling the pelvic bones to expand more easily.

Clary Sage facilitates birth as a euphoric and an analgesic, as a tonic to the respiratory muscles, the uterine system and calms the lower spinal cord. Put 3-4 drops on the inner ankles to help speed labor up.

Bergamot is a refreshing, uplifting oil. It may help relieve anxiety, stress and tension. Diffuse it or apply to forehead or on temples.

Peppermint when inhaled can help reduce anxiety and hypertension. It can be cooling on the lower back. It can help to ease nausea.

Neroli works on the nervous system, allowing it to relax. It calms fear and anxiety, both of which will promote easy breathing, especially if mom is panting or about to hyperventilate.

Essential oil formulas that can help labor:
2 drops of clary sage
2 drops of jasmine
20 ml of grapeseed oil

In the early stages of labor, this blend can be massaged across the abdomen and lower back. Massage should be given at intervals, when a woman feels the need.

A fragrant blend can help soothe pain and promote calm breathing during the contractions.
2 drops of frankincense essential oil
1 drop of mandarin essential oil
1 drop of lemon essential oil
1 drop of grapefruit essential oil

Vaporize the blend with 10 ml of grapeseed oil. You can use it for a bath also.

Labor Cooling Compress Blend:
10 drops jasmine oil
5 drops Roman chamomile
5 drops geranium oil
20 drops lavender oil

Put the oils in a bowl of water; swish the water clockwise, and while the water is still agitated, place a wash cloth into the water, wring out slightly, and use to cool mom’s head and face.

See Natural Healing Tools selection of essential oils, carrier oils and diffusers. 

What You Need To Know About DHA

(About) DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in cold-water oily fish and in seaweed. DHA is also widely available in supplement form. In addition, the body naturally produces small amounts of DHA. (Try Springreen Cod Liver Oil)

In all stages of life, DHA is required for healthy brain functioning. DHA is also essential to the development of the nervous system in the first six months of life.

Studies indicate that DHA may produce a number of other health effects, such as enhanced cardiovascular health. Since DHA possesses anti-inflammatory properties, it's also thought to protect against inflammation-related health conditions.

Uses for DHA

DHA is touted as a natural remedy for a broad range of health problems and diseases, including:

• allergies
• asthma
• attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder
• dementia
• depression
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• psoriasis
• Raynaud's syndrome
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Ulcerative Colitis

Additionally, DHA is purported to prevent cancer, age related mascular degeneration and Alzheimer's disease.

DHA and EPA

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is another omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil. Many dietary supplements contain a combination of DHA and EPA.

Benefits of DHA

Research suggests that DHA supplements may offer a number of health benefits. Here's a look at some key study findings:

1) DHA and Heart Disease

Taking DHA in combination with EPA may reduce several risk factors for cardiovascular disease (including high cholesterol), according to a 2009 report published in Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids. In addition, the report's authors note that taking DHA supplements may moderately improve blood pressure. The report also indicates that people with higher levels of DHA may have a lower risk of atherosclerosis.

In a 2009 research review published in the American Journal of Therapeutics, scientists found that regular intake of DHA and EPA may significantly reduce the risk of dying from heart disease. However, the review did not look specifically at the cardiovascular effects of DHA supplements (as opposed to dietary intake of DHA).

2) DHA and Brain Health

DHA may help protect against age-related cognitive decline, suggests a 2010 research review from Current Alzheimer's Research. Analyzing data from previously published clinical trials, the review's authors found that taking supplements containing both DHA and EPA may help treat mild cognitive impairment (but not Alzheimer's disease).

3) DHA and Depression

DHA may help protect against depression, according to a 2010 research review from Biological Psychiatry. Looking at 14 studies on polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in depressive patients, the review's authors found people with depression may be more likely to have low levels of DHA and EPA. The review's authors suggest that DHA and EPA may help reduce depressive symptoms and, in turn, show promise as an alternative treatment for depression.

More Benefits of DHA

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), fish oil is possibly effective in treatment of several other conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain, psoriasis, and asthma. The NIH also states that fish oil may help reduce risk of stroke and certain forms of cancer (including endometrial cancer). However, it's not known whether taking DHA supplements (as opposed to increasing fish oil intake by consuming oily fish) might help produce these health benefits.

Is DHA Safe?

Although DHA is generally considered safe, taking DHA in the form of fish oil is known to cause a number of side effects, including bad breath, heartburn, and nausea. What's more, there's some concern that fish oil might reduce immune system activity and weaken the body's defense against infection. In addition, taking fish oil in combination with certain medications (such as blood pressure drugs) may produce harmful effects in some cases. Therefore, it's important to consult your physician before combining fish oil with medications.

Where to Find DHA Supplements

Widely available for purchase online, DHA supplements are sold in many drugstores, grocery stores, natural-food stores, and stores specializing in dietary supplements.

Should You Use DHA for Health Purposes?

Regular intake of DHA is important for preserving brain health. Consuming cold-water oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines) several times weekly may help you achieve optimal DHA intake. If cold-water fatty fish isn't part of your regular diet, talk to your doctor about finding a DHA supplement that's right for you.

While taking DHA supplements may offer certain health benefits, it's important to note that DHA supplements should not be used as a replacement for standard care of a chronic condition. Avoiding or delaying treatment for a chronic condition in favor of self-treating with DHA may have serious health consequences.

For pure cod liver oil, try Springreen Cod Liver Oil liquid. For no fish oil, try Yes EFA Supplement in capsule or liquid form made from flax seeds.

Phone Mast Daners

(eHow) In England, cell phone towers are referred to as phone masts. Europeans are aware of the potential dangers raised by cell phone use, cell phone towers and the radiation that makes these devices work. Though not all of the facts are out, independent research has identified several dangers related to phone masts and their radiation.

1. Cancer

   • According to studies, phone masts and the radiation they use are suspected of causing cancer. Radio waves, which are what cell phones and cell phone towers work on, are a form of radiation. Constant exposure to the frequencies put out within a certain distance of phone masts can lead to changes in the body which, according to emfnews.org, can lead to the development of cancer. Leukemia is a common form of cancer that this radiation is said to cause, and tumors have also been attributed to phone mast radiation.

   DNA Damage

   • According to drbenkim.com, the radiation from phone masts may also be responsible for damage to a person's DNA. The radiation, the site claims, interferes with the natural, electrical fields in the human body and in our cells. This interference can lead to a disruption of the cell's normal function, in addition to the degeneration and corruption of a person's DNA. It works much like how data on a computer may be corrupted. Over time the damage may become irreversible and lead to health problems.

   Other Dangers

   • According to drbenkim.com, infertility, eye cancer, immune system suppression, childhood and adult leukemia, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, depression and mutating or alteration of a person's DNA can result from phone mast radiation. Many of these symptoms, according to lef.org, have been confirmed by independent studies done in Europe, though the site claims the information is being manipulated and held back by the cell phone industry.

Read more: Phone Mast Dangers | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6918776_phone-mast-dangers.html#ixzz1nGWiIBQT. Find cell phone protection products at Natural Healing Tools.

Want To Add Antioxidants to Your Supplement Routine? Go Extreme with ACAI Resveratrol

Acai Resveratrol Ultimate ORAC Antioxidant Extreme™

The goal of Antioxidant Extreme™ is to make the most deeply effective and comprehensive antioxidant product ever created —  PERIOD. So many products tout benefits, but simply do NOT contain the actually effective botanicals, or quantities of them, to  be effective. Antioxidant Extreme™ allows you to achieve the benefits that research shows these amazing nutritional substances can provide!

• FAT AND WATER SOLUBLE: Contains abundant quantities of both fat (e.g., vitamin E, vitamin A, curcumin, and carotenoids)a nd water-soluble (e.g., vitamin C and flavonoids)  antioxidants. Free radicals that are formed in the lipid (fatty) sections of the body (cell membranes) are handled by the fat-soluble antioxidants. Those that are formed in the watery or aqueous sections of (blood and fluids within and around cells) are handled by the water-soluble antioxidants.
• ORAC: Based on truthful data, Antioxidant Extreme™ contains by far the highest ORAC value available per dollar. The 120 VeganCap™ size contains over 400,000 ORAC/bottle and the 360 VeganCap™ size contains over 1,200,000 ORAC/bottle.
• Contains GREEN TEA, which has been shown to have extremely potent antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflamatory activity.

GOAL: To make the most deeply effective and highest ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) antioxidant product (both water AND fat soluable) with benefits far beyond ORAC. PERIOD. Free radicals wage a war of destruction on your DNA, contributing to virtually every disease, degenerative and aging process known*. So many products tout benefits but simply do NOT contain the correct botanicals and quantities of them, to be effective. Many formulators are ignorant of this, while many others do it knowingly. Either way, integrity issues come up. Antioxidant Extreme™ allows you to actually achieve the benefits that research shows these amazing nutritional substances can provide!

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Purchase at Natural Healing Tools here.

How to Prepare for a Detox Diet: Tips to Know Before Starting a Detox Diet

(About) Designed to promote whole-body health, a detox diet is a short-term program focused on eliminating environmental and dietary toxins from your system. Although there are many different types of detox diets, most focus on decreasing your intake of potentially harmful chemicals and increasing foods that aid the body in cleansing. By clearing toxins from your body, you may raise your energy levels, stimulate your digestive health, and improve your concentration. Considering the touted benefits, it's easy to see why a detox diet might be appealing to some -- but there are important things to consider before jumping in.

Is a Detox Diet Right for You?

If you're considering a detox diet, it's important to consult with your doctor prior to starting. People with certain health conditions (such as anemia, diabetes, and kidney disease) should either avoid this diet or perform detox only under the supervision of a health care provider. The detox diet is also unsafe for pregnant or nursing women.

People who are constantly exhausted and have low blood pressure may have a syndrome not recognized by most traditional doctors, but identified and treated by holistic and alternative doctors, called adrenal weakness or fatigue. A detox diet can be done, but it’s recommended after a person has rested and replenished their adrenal glands holistically through herbs, diet, and other natural remedies. Take the Adrenal Fatigue Quiz.

Learn more about doing a detox diet safely.

How to Prepare for a Detox Diet

Before you begin your detox diet, you need to get your body ready for optimal cleansing.

Here's how:

1) Give Your Diet a Mini-Makeover
Some foods can interfere with the liver's ability to detoxify your body, which could impair your detox efforts. For one to two weeks leading up to your detox diet, try to eliminate sugar, artificial sweeteners, trans fats, refined carbohydrates (such as white rice and white pasta), gluten, processed soy foods, alcohol, and packaged, boxed, canned, or fast food.

You may also want to take this time to rid your kitchen of any foods or beverages that might tempt you during your detox diet.

Plan your menu for the week and make time to grocery shop. If you don’t normally buy organic, look for local farmers’ markets, health food stores, or grocery stores with a good selection of organic foods. If you’re not able to buy all produce organic, get a fruit and vegetable wash (Environee makes one) to help rid your produce of pesticide residues, waxes, and other undesirable chemicals. See a sample menu on a detox diet.

2) Prevent Caffeine Withdrawal
If you drink caffeinated beverages on a regular basis, you may experience caffeine withdrawal at the start of your detox diet. To prevent headache, fatigue, and other withdrawal symptoms, gradually decrease your caffeine intake at least a week prior to starting your detox diet. Try substituting some of your coffee intake with swiss water decaffeinated coffee and gradually decreasing the amount, or switch to lower-caffeine green tea, white tea, matcha, or oolong tea.

3) Drink More Water
Your body needs plenty of water to flush out toxins during your diet. Drinking lots of water keeps you hydrated and may help flush out toxins, so make sure to drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of filtered water daily.

4) Stock up on Tools for Detox Success
Some practices may help promote cleansing throughout your detox diet. Exfoliating your skin with a dry brush, for instance, may help support circulation and prompt the passage of toxins from your lymph.

To enhance relaxation as you detox, consider buying some essential oils to add to your bathwater or use for massage. Incredibly calming, lavender oil may be especially helpful for those suffering from caffeine-withdrawal-related headaches. Learn about using essential oils safely

5) Know What Not to Cut Out
Do not stop taking any prescription drug for a detox diet. Many health conditions require a constant amount of the medication in the body and discontinuing them can have serious, possibly life-threatening consequences.

Find Detox kits, special formulas and detox helpful tools at Natural Healing Tools. 

New! Bio Bling Health Bracelet

Introducing our new Bio Bling Health Bracelet!

Our "Bio-Bling" Healthy Bracelet combines fashion with wellness! Natural Jade stone and the mineral Germinate come together in the comfortable soft silicon band to emit therapeutic Far Infrared rays and negative ions. This dynamic duo is combined with magnet therapy in the wrist band for maximum benefits!

Scientific studies show that Far Infrared Rays and negative ions penetrate deeply into our skin which can promote increased circulation, pain reduction and relief, calming and stress relief, boosts our immune system and improves sleep quality. Magnets are used for pain relief helping relax muscles and increase energy.

Enjoy the "instant sensation"™ of good health and well being today!

Creating Wealth through Health

Could Electronic Medical Records Add Costs?

(CNN Health) Electronic streamlining of medical records has been touted as a way to save money, against the backdrop of a health care system that is characterized as wasteful. Electronic medical records (or "Health IT") are supposed to save billions of dollars by eliminating duplicate or unnecessary testing.

But a new study is saying just the opposite: Health IT may actually add cost to health care instead of curbing it.

In fact, the study, just published in the journal Health Affairs, suggests that doctors who had electronic access to patient data were between 40-70% more likely to order tests.

"It's a somewhat surprising finding," said Dr. Danny McCormick, assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, and study co-author. "Health IT is often put forward as a major solution to the cost crisis affecting the health care system. If it actually is not likely to decrease costs, we probably ought to know about that early on."

McCormick and colleagues analyzed data from the 2008 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, which included 28,741 patient visits presided over by 1,187 physicians.

To be included in the analysis, physicians needed the ability to order and receive patient radiological and lab tests electronically; and they had to be able to get back results of tests visually - meaning, if they ordered a CT scan of the abdomen, they could get back an image of that scan on their computer.

The theory behind corralling a patient's medical records electronically – and being able to access previous data – is that it would, among other things, obviate unnecessary tests.

But just the opposite happened in this study.

Physicians who had electronic access ordered tests during 18% of visits, compared with physicians without access, who ordered 12.9% of the time.

"What we think is may be going on is that like in a lot of spheres of human behavior, if you make something easy to do, people will do it more," said McCormick. "We saw a strong association between having the capacity to view an image and ordering more tests."

One reason for the disconnect between this study's findings and those suggesting billions in savings, according to McCormick, is that those studies are based on successfully implemented electronic records systems at large health systems, such as Kaiser Permanente and the Mayo Clinic.

But there are real-world considerations that don't translate the same way they do at those big institutions, according to McCormick.

First, smaller practices may not be using technology as sophisticated as larger health systems. Another theory is that simply ordering up another test might be perceived as easier than taking time to review previous test results.

"The effect may be to provide subtle encouragement to physicians to order more imaging studies," according to the study.

A previous analysis by Harvard researchers, published in 2009 in the American Journal of Medicine, similarly suggests that, in general, hospital computing systems have not reduced overall costs.

This most recent survey was not designed to answer more sophisticated questions, like whether the patient actually needed the test. Or whether doctors who are savvy enough to install electronic medical records systems at their practices might also be more inclined toward ordering tests in borderline cases.

To be sure, more study is needed. And that is the point, according to McCormick.

"It really should give caution to those making the claim that Health IT is going to make a substantial dent in the cost crisis facing the health care system," said McCormick.