Meilyr James discusses health matters with DJ Leighton Jones on Swansea Sound, in his monthly broadcast.

You can listen to the podcast playing here without leaving our site or visit http://herbalclinicswansea.podomatic.com to hear this and other podcasts in the series.

Colds tend to occur more often in autumn and winter as the change in outer climatic conditions has an effect on our internal environment. Cold and damp cools our bodily systems down so that we are less able to clear toxins from the body. This establishes a medium that is suited to the growth of bacteria and viruses and we ‘catch a cold’. Have you ever wondered why a particular friend or colleague never seems to get a cold, whilst you are rarely without one? You may have come to the conclusion that contact with the virus is not the whole story behind why we become infected – if the ‘soil’ of the body is right then a virus can survive, and thrive.

 Prevention

So how do we prevent frequent colds? Working in harmony with the seasons is a simple, yet effective strategy. As the temperature cools down we need to warm ourselves up. Over the summer cooling salads and juices may have kept us refreshed, now is the time for warming soups, spiced stews and root vegetables, which are seasonally available at this time. Cumin, cinnamon, turmeric and garlic can all help to keep the body warm and the digestive fire strong, therefore preventing a build up of toxins, which encourage bacterial proliferation.

We also need to make sure our metabolism is running warm so continuing a regular aerobic exercise program is essential, whether this be a brisk walk with your dog or cycling to work. Ensure your system is fighting fit and it will fight off those microscopic invaders for you.

The immune system plays an important role in preventing infection and is particularly influenced by stress – mental, physical and emotional. Take a moment to notice the stresses in your life – Are you working too hard? Are you emotionally content? Do you have a high toxin load from factors such as smoking, alcohol or fumes? Allow a little time to re-balance and it may save you time off sick in the long run.

 Herbal medicines

Treated naturally with rest and herbal medication, the severity of a cold can be diminished and the duration reduced.

Many useful herbs for easing the symptoms of a cold are widely available and can be utilised at home. An infusion can be made with 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger root steeped in boiling water, some honey (preferably manuka which has antiseptic properties) and freshly squeezed lemon. This can help to remove mucus and stimulate the body’s natural defences. If you have some cinnamon quills available try breaking them up and adding them to the teapot for a delicious warming tonic. Fresh sage is specific for clearing viral and bacterial infections from the throat and sinus. To prepare, place a handful of the leaves in a teapot and pour on boiling water. Cover and allow it to infuse for 10 minutes then add a little honey and drink frequently until the problem clears. (NOTE: caution in pregnancy, herbs can be powerful in their actions and excessive quantities can have an effect on the female reproductive system).

Tussilago farfara (Coltsfoot) – Tussilago soothes the mucous membranes (the delicate inner lining of the respiratory and digestive organs), tones the bronchi and aids expectoration and the removal of mucus.

Capsicum minimum (Chilli pepper): Capsicum is strongly heating, increasing localised blood flow and stimulating the immunity.

 Iridology

The lungs are represented in the right iris at 2-3 o’clock and in the left iris at 9-10 o’clock  (when looking at your own reflection). Noticeable gaps, pigments or colour changes may indicate predisposition to lung complaints.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Labyrinth’ magazine in November/December edition, 2011

Click to Download a pdf version

A natural balance

When we are out of balance we experience disharmony in our bodies and any change we face will be difficult. We can provide assistance and support to make this a more comfortable process. Consider all aspects of your life, physical and emotional. Take the time to sleep and exercise, spend time outdoors and eat nourishing vibrant foods. Ensure a balance between your work and personal time and confront any emotional or psychological issues. Be content, this in itself brings healing.

A change of perspective

End of reproductive years does not equate to end of life! With newfound freedom from monthly hormonal fluctuations and the experience of maturity, menopause can be approached as an exciting change heralding a fresh start. Anthropologist Margaret Mead wrote, “The most powerful force in the world is a menopausal woman with zest,” so be open to all the positive this change can bring.

Drugs

Hormone replacement therapy is marketed to both doctors (by the companies who make the drugs) and to patients, as beneficial to health by preventing various diseases. However, research indicates otherwise.  According to the US Women’s Health Initiative study, hormone therapy increases your chances of developing coronary heart disease by 29%, stroke by 41%, lung cancer by 60% and ovarian cancer by 38%, to name but a few.

Be well informed from a variety of sources before you agree to hormonal intervention. ‘What Doctors Don’t Tell You’ publication is read by both lay people and some doctors to access independent research on medical drugs, rather than research funded by the pharmaceutical companies who are selling the drugs.

Herbal synergy

Plant derived oestrogen is widely available for symptomatic relief. Soya products, nuts and seeds can be beneficial to include in your diet. Many herbs have a balancing effect on the hormones, however each case must be addressed individually.

Cimicifuga racemosa (Black cohosh): This plant contains phytoestrogens and is useful for arthritic complaints as well as depression as a result of digestive issues.

Humulus lupulus (Hops): Hops have appreciable oestrogenic properties. It’s sedative effects, help to calm visceral tension in the body and ease palpitations and tense bowel states.

Iridology

Congestion throughout the body can make menopause a challenge and is indicated by the appearance of dull or murky eyes with regular discharge from the corners and lids. Inspection of the region of the iris representing the uterus, ovaries, kidney and adrenal will also highlight potential problems.

Meilyr James BSc (Hons) DBTh DAcu AcuC DIr MGNI

Registered Medical Herbalist, Iridologist and practitioner of acupuncture.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Aura’ magazine in November 2011

Click to download a pdf

Adults need an average of 8 hours sleep every night and young children need 12 hours. Throughout the night our sleep progresses through a series of stages in which different brain wave patterns are displayed.

The delta waves manifested during deep sleep allow restoration of the immune system, release anti-ageing hormones, heal the mind and repair the muscles. The heart and breathing rate are slowed and the blood vessels dilate to provide nourishment to all the cells in the body. Cortisol – a hormone released when we are stressed which has damaging effects throughout the body, is reduced during deep sleep. During REM (rapid eye movement) sleep the mind is able to process emotions, memories and consolidate learned information.

Tips for a peaceful night’s sleep

•  Eat the last meal of the day at least 3 hours before going to bed. Whilst the digestive system is active your metabolism is high and you cannot truly rest.
•  If possible keep your bedroom as a sanctuary of sleep! Don’t work in bed or your brain may come to associate this with a place of activity.
•  If worries or plans are keeping you awake, keep a notebook by your bedside so you can write them down and release them before you lay down, free and peaceful.
•  Try unwinding for half an hour before bed. Relaxation techniques such as visualisation, alternate nostril breathing or calming music can allow your mind to switch off and your body to relax.
•  Exercise during the day can promote a good night’s sleep. Physical activity keeps the circadian rhythm running effectively – at night a slight rise in body temperature is experienced which primes the body to fall asleep easily.
•  Listen closely to your body’s signals. Often we reach a point in the evening when we feel naturally tired. This is the best time to retire. If you stay up, you may pass through this and begin to feel more alert.

Herbal Medicines

Valeriana officinalis (Valerian): This grounding herb is valuable for insomnia related to a nervous disposition. It is a gentle sedative with antispasmodic actions, easing cramps and tension.

Tilia europaea (Lime flower): Used to relax a tense nervous system and musculature this herb can be combined with chamomile to make a pleasant and relaxing bedtime tea.

Iridology

On examination of the iris, dark or light pigment changes may be seen over the location associated with the liver, positioned between 7.30 – 8 in the right iris (when observing another person), in an individual experiencing insomnia.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Labyrinth’ magazine in August/September edition, 2011

Click to Download a pdf version

Remedies

Minor burns and sunburn: Lavender essential oil (Lavandula officinalis) applied neat to the affected area brings immediate relief to pain and inflammation, allowing the burn to heal quickly. Another valuable herb is Aloe vera which has the unique ability to help skin renew itself by stimulating cellular metabolism, thereby promoting oxygen exchange and increasing the absorption of nutrients. Keep a plant on the windowsill, they are easy to grow and can be used whenever needed. Snap off one of the fleshy leaves at the base, slice off the outer skin on one side, and place the gel side of the leaf against the burn. Cover the aloe with roller gauze and surgical tape to keep it firmly in place.

Colds and sore throats: Listen to the signals your body gives, we often feel a little run down, tired or irritable at the onset of a cold, this is the time to act! Drink plenty of warm water and take a hot foot-bath with a tablespoon of Colman’s mustard powder to enhance the circulation. This will increase the body’s energy and boost the immune system. For sore throats place 1-2 tablespoons of fresh sage (Salvia officinalis) into a mug, pour on boiling water and cover so that the steam (and medicinal essential oils) cannot escape. Allow to infuse for 10 minutes, then drink with a little manuka honey. Sage is specific for clearing viral and bacterial infections from the throat and sinus and can be drunk frequently until the problem clears. Sage also has an effect on the female reproductive system, proving useful for the hot flushes of menopause, though it is not advised during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Nausea and bloating: Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) has anti-emetic and carminative properties making it useful for indigestion, nausea and morning sickness. Use one teaspoon of the fresh grated root and infuse in hot water in a covered mug and sip slowly. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) can be grown in pots in the garden and a few leaves chewed or an infusion made to calm the stomach and ease wind.

Accidents and injuries: Homeopathic Arnica montana is a vital remedy to keep at hand to arrest bleeding and help with shock in the event of an accident. Rescue Remedy is a Bach flower remedy formulation that calms and reassures assisting with the psychological trauma of an injury.

Wounds: Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is a strong antiseptic and antibiotic, both topically and internally. Witch hazel  (Hamamelis virginica) can be used externally to reduce bleeding as its astringent properties bring tissue and blood vessels closer together.

Stings: Lavender essential oil and aloe vera can again be useful here to cool the heat and reduce inflammation. Also of value is homeopathic Apis (dilution made from a bee sting), which can be used to treat anything with symptoms of redness and swelling made worse by heat.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Aura’ magazine in August 2011

Click to download a pdf

Drinking plenty of water helps concentration, memory, stamina, eyesight, kidney health and increases longevity. A lack of water can be a major factor in pressure headaches, frequent colds, digestive disease, hormonal problems and even depression. A 2% loss of water can result in a 20% decrease in energy levels. In short, this fluid we evolved from is vital to our lives!

How To Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of pure water  (about 4-6 pints or 2-3 litres per day) with no added squash, flavourings or sweeteners as these are not hydrating. Drinks containing caffeine such as tea and cola encourage water to leave the body.

Try drinking water when you feel hungry as sensations of hunger and thirst are generated simultaneously by the hypothalamus in the brain. Often the need for water is mistaken for hunger and we eat rather than drink (with obvious implications for weight gain.) If you still feel hungry 20 minutes after drinking, then you can eat.

Include essential fatty acids such as hemp seed oil, in your diet, which allow the body to absorb water more effectively. Most modern diets are low in these.

Invest in a good quality carbon filter water jug to remove some impurities and chlorine (linked to cardiovascular disease) from your tap water. Alternatively a distiller removes 99.9% of dissolved toxins including heavy metals and residues from herbicides and medications such as the contraceptive pill.

Eat plenty of hydrating foods such as fresh fruits, steamed vegetables, soups and porridge.

Herbal medicines

Ulmus fulva (Slippery elm): This powdered bark can be mixed with soya milk or hot water to make a soothing, nutritive and hydrating drink. It is particularly healing to the digestive tract, assisting in restoring mucous membranes and healing ulcerated surfaces.

Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel): Fennel seeds strengthen a weakened digestive system, restoring the digestive fire without overheating the body and creating dryness. They can be used for indigestion and are calming to the nerves.

Iridology

Examination of the iris by a trained iridologist can reveal the internal condition of the body. Signs of dehydration include a lack of tears, a film over the conjunctiva, a sensation of dryness of the eyes and eyestrain.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Labyrinth’ magazine in June/July edition, 2011

Click to download a pdf

Our biological system that deals with these toxins is called the cytochrome P450 system and is governed by the liver. It is responsible for binding potentially harmful molecules and ensuring their excretion via the kidneys and bowel.

Unfortunately, our biology has not been able to evolve quickly enough to keep up with the massive increase in synthetic chemical exposure that has occurred over the last 50 years. As toxins accumulate we may experience unpleasant symptoms such as allergies, lack of mental clarity and low energy. Toxic waste from incomplete digestion of foods may leave us feeling lethargic, bloated and congested. The solution? Detox!  A spring-clean for the body and mind.

How to detox

If possible, set aside some time to take extra care of yourself during your detox; this should be a nurturing experience, not a punishment.  Do a little research and plan a detox regime that suits you – perhaps you can set aside a week to really focus on the process or incorporate a few changes gradually into your routine.

Useful tips

• Drink plenty of warm/hot filtered water
• Eat plenty of salads, steamed vegetables and home-made soups
• Experiment with a juicer.  Packed with vitality and nutrients, juices can be an energising and delicious addition to your program.
• Green/white teas are antioxidant rich – protecting cells from damaging free radicals, which are increased through exposure to pollution, cigarette smoke and herbicides.
• Cruciferous vegetables – broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and watercress are rich in isothiocyanates which boost the body’s P450 system
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, meats, dairy products and eggs
• Drink plenty of ginger and lemon tea

Herbal synergy

Carduus marianus (Milk thistle): Specific for aiding the liver’s natural detoxification mechanism, this herb enhances the P450 system.  Being liver protective it also reduces the impact of poisons in the system.

Taraxum officinale (Dandelion):  Stimulates the liver to produce bile, which plays an important role in detoxification as it carries stored fat-soluble toxins away from the liver to be excreted in the stools.  It has a diuretic action on the kidneys, therefore assisting the removal of water-soluble waste.

Iridology

The eyes will often appear clearer and brighter following detoxification of the body. A dullness to the eyes is an indication that toxic matter is present. A trained iridologist can examine the markings of the iris to ascertain the condition of the body.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Aura’ magazine in May 2011

Click to download a pdf

If you experience regular headaches, take a little time to listen to what your body is telling you and consider what the cause or causes may be.  Headaches need not be accepted as a normal part of life.

Causes

Dehydration: Causing constriction of the blood flow to the brain and poor elimination. Drink plenty of water, 4 pints per day in the winter and 6 pints in the summer. Try drinking hot water with some freshly squeezed lemon first thing in the morning to get you off to a well- hydrated start.

Diet: Irregular eating patterns disturb the blood sugar balance within the body. Replacing meals with sugary snacks can be particularly problematic. Ensure you eat at regular times and don’t skip breakfast! A simple bowl of porridge oats cooked with soya milk and cinnamon can nourish the nervous system and provide a slow burning fuel for the body. Easier said than done? Work hard to achieve your goal for two weeks and you’ll find it becomes your habit, then it’s much easier to keep up!

Unresolved stress: Stress may be emotional, mental or physical. If a stressful situation persists, internal tension can build up, causing a headache. Take action to resolve any enduring concerns, as a lingering awareness of something that needs to be dealt with will, in itself, cause a headache. Meditation can allow the space and time for your thoughts to settle and provide increased clarity, which will help in guiding you to make positive choices.

Muscular tension: Tension in the neck as a result of poor posture, straining or spinal mis-alignment can cause headaches. A regular massage, either with a trained therapist or willing partner/friend will help to ease the tension. Try to be aware of your posture throughout the day and correct it regularly. Introduce a few stretches in the morning and afternoon to release any tension from the neck and shoulders. Yoga can be a helpful way of learning to let go.

Herbal Medicines

Herbs work in harmony with the body to restore health and balance, making them a perfect complement to any diet and lifestyle changes you may want to make. In most cases it is advisable to consult a qualified herbal practitioner, as they will be able to formulate a prescription tailored to your individual needs.

Stachys betonica (Wood betony): Promotes the growth of nerve endings and is a potent nervous tropho-restorative (nutritive, restoring vital nourishment to an organ or system). It decreases and regulates the flow of blood to the head and can therefore be a useful herb for headaches, particularly of nervous origin.

Piscidia erythrina (Jamaica dogwood): Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. Contains piscidin, a nerve sedative, and is particularly useful for migraine and tension headaches.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Labyrinth’ magazine in April/May edition, 2011

Click to download a pdf

How to improve your energy levels

SLEEP:  Quality sleep is vital. A Japanese study in 2007 concluded that lack of sleep increased white blood cell count (the immune cells), a sign that the body is under stress and has therefore increased it’s protection.

NUTRITION:  Fruit and veg leave you feeling light and energised, try increasing these.

HYDRATION:  We are made up of 70 – 90% water! All of our systems work better if we drink more water.

EXERCISE:   Sends nutrients and oxygen to the body and brain.

BREATHING:  Increase your oxygen capacity by learning to breathe with the whole of your lungs (most of us don’t!).  Oxygen rich blood increases our mental and physical performance. Yoga is a good way to learn this technique.

STIMULANTS:  Sorry, no!  These provide a temporary fix of high energy, which drops even lower when the effects wear off.

WASTED ENERGY:  Mentally, worrying and putting off dealing with a problem expends energy with no result. Physically, by becoming more efficient, planning and organising our lives, we can save energy lost by ‘chasing our tails’ and looking for pens/documents/shoes!

Herbal Synergy

Adaptogens are a class of herbs which provide energy where required. They are deep acting with influence on the immune, endocrine (hormonal) and often nervous systems. Most cultures with a history of the use of traditional medicines include adaptogens in their daily lives after the age of about 60 years.

Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng):  Originating from East Asia, this root is used for individuals with a delicate physique and weakened condition. It strengthens the adrenal cortex and therefore has a reputation as a longevity herb.  It gives clarity and aids mental acuity.

Chamaemelum nobile (German chamomile):  Native to Britain, this herb is a tonic with actions on the liver and digestive system, through which it can improve the appetite and vigour. It also acts on the nervous system calming and balancing energy.

© Extracted from a weekly radio broadcast 2010

Published in ‘Aura’ magazine in February 2011

Click to download a pdf