Turn Food Waste to Treasure

Every day, we throw away many foods that we think as waste. Here are a few examples of how you can turn food waste into treasure.

A New Edition of Coffee – Date Seeds
Date seeds contain antioxidants and fiber. They help regulate your blood sugar and prevent kidney stones and liver damage. Date seeds can also be used as coffee and they are caffeine-free.
 
Other Health Benefits include:

• Heart Healthy
• Supports gut health and digestion
• Promotes brain health
• Promotes weight loss

Avocado Seed Tea
Here are some amazing health benefits of avocado seeds.

• Aid digestion.
• Contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that benefit your heart function.
• Boost immunity with anti-inflammatory properties.

Instructions on how to make your avocado tea.

• Boil the seed for 5 minutes.
• Take it out and place it on a cutting board, the outer skin will peel off.
• Cut it into quarters. Put back into boiling water for 5 more minutes. The water will change to a pinkish color. Let it cool and enjoy it with a squeeze of Lemon or a sweetener of your choice.

Lemon Peels
Lemon peels contain as much as 5 to 10 times more vitamins than lemon juice. The surprising benefits of lemon are its miraculous ability to kill cancer cells! It is more potent than chemotherapy. It is also considered an anti-microbial spectrum against bacterial infections and fungi, effective against internal parasites and worms, regulates blood pressure, and an antidepressant. The source of this information comes from one of the largest drug manufacturers in the world, saying that after more than 20 laboratory tests since 1970, the lemon extract revealed that it destroys malignant cells in 12 cancers, including colon, breast, prostate, lung & pancreas…and it is more effective than the drug - Adriamycin, which is used chemotherapy, slowing the growth of cancer cells. And what is even more interesting is that lemon extract only destroys cancer cells and does not affect healthy cells.
Now, you should include the peels when you consume lemons, add them to your tea, and soups, and grate them in your salads to fully enjoy this amazing gift from Mother Nature.

DIY Non-Toxic Citrus Fruit Peel Cleaner

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups of orange lemon, lime, and grapefruit (more or less) peels.
• 2 cups of white vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

• Fill a mason jar with the peels. Your jar should be at least half full.
• Add white vinegar to cover the peels.
• Seal tightly with a non-metal lid.
• Allow infusing for 2 to 3 weeks.
• Strain contents through a fine mesh sieve
• Use as an all-purpose cleaner.

For more tips on natural remedies and self-healing, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

How Can Nutrition Affect Your Sleep Quality?

Many people who have challenges losing weight are also experiencing poor sleep quality because elevated cortisol levels increase fat storage in the body, especially abdominal fat. When your cortisol levels remain chronically high, your body thinks it is going through starvation and begins to store more fat around the abdomen. This also increases insulin levels, which is a fat-storage hormone. High cortisol increases blood sugar to help get you through a stressful situation regardless it is a lack of sleep or other stress, but high blood sugar increases your sugar cravings. Chronically elevated cortisol levels also contribute to adrenal fatigue, which slows down your metabolism, and affects your thyroid function and hormone balance. All these create a vicious cycle of weight gain. 

Certain nutrients can affect your sleep quality. According to studies, low Vit.B12 levels can affect your sleep. Vit.B12 plays an important role in the liver detoxification process. It is also crucial for nerve tissue health, brain function, and the production of red blood cells. Your gut bacteria produce B12 below the ileum. If your gut health is impacted, it can affect your B12 level. If you have low stomach acids and your stomach doesn’t have a sufficient amount of intrinsic factor to pick up B12 from the food, which can affect your B12 absorption, this is especially true for those who take anti-acid drugs for acid reflux. You can see that the B12 level in your body is closely linked to your gut health and brain health. If your serum B12 level is low and you want to take a supplement to boost it, it is a good idea to take a Vit.B12 supplement that contains both methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, which supports both your liver health and the energy production of mitochondria. Food that is a good source of B12 includes meat and eggs.

If you have iron deficiency anemia, it can affect your sleep too. Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia that is due to an insufficient amount of iron stored in your body, which causes the blood to lack an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues; when their capacity is affected, this can lead to chronic fatigue, lack of energy, shortness of breath, headaches, reduced appetite, and poor sleep quality. Researchers have found a particular gene is strongly associated with insomnia. This same gene is also associated with iron-deficiency anemia and it is involved in the metabolism of iron in the body. This particular gene is also linked to restless legs syndrome, a neurological condition that can significantly impact sleep.  In restless legs syndrome or RLS, people experience a powerful urge to move their legs. The overlap of the same brain region linked to both hemoglobin levels and shorter sleep duration may suggest a common pathway in the development of anemia and insomnia.

What about other nutrients that can also affect your sleep quality? And how does your spleen play a role in the quality and quantity of your blood based on TCM? Please check my recent video. 

December Astrology and 2023 Predictions

The energy in December is busy and swift because the full moon is in the air sign of Gemini and social media is a hot place to check-in. Then we have the winter solstice and another new moon in the earth sign of Capricorn.

Numerology Significance
The Cold Full Moon falls on Dec.7^th and it is at 16 degrees (1+6=7) of Gemini. Number 7 repeats itself, and it is associated with cosmic energy and influences from higher dimensions. We may see more galactic encounters from our star families moving forward, who are helping raise our collective consciousness for ascension. The new moon in November is at 1 degree of Sagittarius, which indicates the new beginning. The last new moon of the year will fall into the Zodiac sign of Capricorn on Dec.23^rd (2+3=5), number 5 is associated with freedom. Numbers are a universal language and all these numbers indicate a bright 2023!

The Significance of the Lunar Node Eclipses
We experienced a partial solar eclipse on October 25^th and a total lunar eclipse on November 8^th, which is very significant because they occurred at both lunar nodes and only occur every 18.6 years. The North Lunar Node (Rahu) and the South Lunar Node (Ketu) transition in the 2nd and 8th houses will initiate the desire for freedom and change, including financial freedom and spiritual transformation. Changes come inside first and project to the outer world. The Lunar Node Eclipses urge us to look more closely at our needs and desires concerning the balance between earthy, practical, peace-loving Taurus and emotional, transformative, and crisis-oriented Scorpio. The energy triggered by these eclipses gives us a cosmic push to make changes in our lives. In Vedic astrology, this transit occurred in the 1st and 7th houses, influencing our relationships with others and transforming our self-identity. If you meet a significant another, this means it is likely a karmic relationship from past lives, this makes a soulmate connection possible. On the other hand, those relationships that don’t fulfill your heart and soul desires will likely fall apart. Ketu aspects the planet Saturn, which rules our karmas. This urges you to do some inner work, find your inner gifts, and reconnect to your inner self, creating a new path that leads you to ultimate happiness. With the positive influence of Jupiter from Pisces, it brings the expansion of spirituality to a large scale, more spiritual leaders will merge into the surface during this period. Manifestation also comes easily with increased consciousness. Taking action for your desires but detaching from the outcome is the key to manifestation.

To continue reading December astrology predictions, please click here.

Christmas Astrology Reading Special Offer
If you would like to know the origin of your star families and the predictions for the second part of your life and your career, you can book an astrology reading with me, and I will make an analysis of your natal chart based on sidereal astrology and Starseed origins, also combine your D9 and D10 charts from Vedic astrology to dive deep into your soul blueprint, your relationships and career path in this lifetime. Please check a variety of readings that I offer, they can be great tools to guide you through your life journey, especially during this dawn of the New Age that is packed with big changes and transformations globally. I am offering a special discount for a detailed reading as $70 for a one-hour reading during this holiday season. 

Two Simple Remedies from Chinese Folk Medicine

As we are shifting to the new timeline, it is time to go back to our ancestors to seek wisdom. Today I am going to talk about two remedies from Chinese Folk medicine.

Stop Nose Bleeding In a Second

The Law of Polarity has been used in TCM extensively. Any illnesses are energetic blockages in the body that cause the imbalance of the Yin and Yang energy flow. How to stop nose bleeding in a second? This is where the Law of Polarity kicks in. Use the lower part of the body to treat the upper part and the left for the right. Balance is the key. 

How does it work? Crush a fresh garlic clove and apply it to the sole of your foot. If the bleeding is in your right nostril, apply it to the left foot, and if the bleeding is in your left nostril, apply it to the right foot. Cover the garlic with a piece of cheesecloth and use a bandage to hold it in place, leave it for 15-20 minutes and rinse it off, it usually stops the nose bleeding right away. 

Drum the Head

Drumming the head is another popular ancient technique to strengthen Chi (energy) in the kidney meridian. According to TCM, the energy flow in the kidney meridian opens in the ears. When the energy in the kidney meridian is strong, the hearing function of the ears is enhanced and the mind is sharp. This exercise can help relieve annoying tinnitus. How to do it? Very simple: use both of your palms to cover your ears, and use your fingers to knock the back of your head horizontally. When your ears are fully covered, you can hear the sound of drumming as your fingers knock your head like playing the piano. This is where the name – “drum the head” came from. The pressure to knock your head should be comfortable. There are many acupoints around your head, when you do this exercise, your fingers happen to touch three important acupoints on your head, including “Feng Chi” and “Nao Hu”. Therefore, you are stimulating these acupoints when performing this exercise. This exercise can help prevent headaches, tinnitus, vertigo, and even strokes. Just 30-50 times a day with this simple exercise, you will notice that your mind is sharp and the annoying ear ringing is going away. 

I will be at the Wellness Fair on Nov.26th in Parksville.  I will also bring some natural healing products that I made, including hand-healing balms for pain relief and anti-aging, hair products to boost hair growth and prevent grey hair, and other natural health products. I highly recommend that you download an app on your phone called "Think Dirty" or "Yuka" to check all the what-so-called natural products for your skin and hair in the stores, you will be shocked that how many carcinogenetic chemicals are in these products. Knowledge is power and prevention is the key. These natural herbal products I made can be great options for Christmas gifts. I will also offer gift cards for readings, they can be a pleasant surprise to your friends and families as everyone is keen on their new future with tremendous changes that are coming globally. Please check my posts below for more details. I am looking forward to seeing you there. 

Get Rid of Phlegm with This Simple Tip

Many people experience excess phlegm during the fall season because the energy is peaking in the lung meridian during the fall according to TCM. Did you know that excess phlegm is linked to a weak spleen meridian? This means the energy in the spleen meridian is not able to eliminate waste efficiently in the body. This in turn affects your digestion and lung function because the lung meridian is associated with the large intestine meridian and the spleen meridian is part of your digestive system. How to get rid of excess phlegm easily and boost your digestive system at the same time? Here is a unique technique from TCM.

First, let’s talk about licorice root, it is an ancient herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has been used in many herbal blends to treat various health issues in TCM. Licorice root has anti-viral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. The active ingredient glycyrrhizic acid in licorice root helps treat a cough, sore throat, asthma, etc. Licorice root is also a great herbal remedy to treat digestive disorders, such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, and other digestive-related issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties. One of the great aspects of licorice root that most people are not aware of is its detox power, it helps detoxify the liver and other organs and protects the liver from toxins and viruses overload. It helps reduce excessive phlegm, soothes coughs, and gets your lungs back on track fast.

There is a magical spot on your leg that can help get rid of phlegm. It is called Fenglong acupoint. Where is it located? It is on the anterior of the leg midway between the crease of the knee and the tip of the lateral malleolus, 2 Cun lateral of the tibia.

How does it work? Grind some licorice root and apply 1 tsp. to the Fenglong acupoint, use a bandage to hold the licorice root in place, after 12 hours, take it off and rest for 12 hours, then apply it again. One treatment cycle is 5-7 days. Licorice root helps reduce phlegm. Fenglong acupoint is in the stomach meridian and it is known to get rid of phlegm. This combination works wonders.

Here is another simple remedy to get rid of excess phlegm.

Honey and lemon: This powerful combination is very effective in the treatment of respiratory problems due to its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of raw honey
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

 Direction:

Mix two ingredients in a bowl and consume it three times a day.

I hope you enjoy the information, for more information on self-healing tips, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

A Powerful Adaptogen for Your Brain and Immunity

The brain and gut axis has been a hot topic lately. Did you know that the gut channels 90% of information to the brain while only 10% of information goes from the brain to the gut? This means your brain health is significantly affected by your gut health, and vice versa. Many people use anti-psychotic drugs for their mental health challenges, but these drugs can also damage your gut health besides a long list of side effects. This is because most neurotransmitters are produced in the gut, not in your brain. The body is a living matrix, and each organ’s coherent state is achieved by balance and homeostasis.

I am going to talk about a remarkable herb for your brain and immunity.

Rhodiola Rosea is traditionally used in Chinese medicine and Scandinavian culture. It is known as 'Hong Jing Tian' in Chinese and it is known to replenish Chi (Qi), clear the lungs, nourish the heart, fortify the spleen, boost mental acuity, and has calming effects on the central nervous system. It is often recommended as a herbal supplement for those who suffer from general weakness and adrenal exhaustion. The plant itself also has petal-shaped radiating leaves that form a similar pattern to a rose flower. The pleasant floral scent that Rhodiola comes from a volatile oil that gives it a unique fragrance and flavor. The rosy pink-colored tea also tastes like rose petals. Rhodiola is a tonic herb native to the cold harsh climates of Siberia, Tibet, and the Northeast. Indigenous cultures of Siberia were known to secretly guard Rhodiola's harvesting and preparation techniques, and are shared only among family members. Rhodiola Rosea is known by several different names such as “arctic root”, “roseroot”, and “roseworth” due to its long history dating back thousands of years. 

A Powerful Adaptogen

Rhodiola Rosea is a natural adaptogen, which can increase resistance to biological, chemical, emotional, and physical stress. The compounds in this herb are considered adaptogenic, which means that they can help mediate our hormonal and metabolic states. In other words, it helps in providing relief from depression and chronic stress. Research suggests that Rhodiola Rosea can affect numerous aspects of cognitive health, including improving memory and concentration. This means that it can affect the decision-making process, and reduce irritability and stress.

Rhodiola increases the epinephrine and norepinephrine availability in the system. By raising the levels of neurotransmitters associated with energy, it improves neuron connections, enhances cognitive abilities, reduces fatigue, and lifts mood.

Several active components give Rhodiola Rosea amazing healing properties. For example, Salidroside is a glycoside of Tyrosol, which is considered to be the primary bioactive ingredient of Rhodiola Rosea. Salidroside and Rosavin compounds are most relevant for cognitive enhancement and mental performance.

Promotes Weight Loss

Rhodiola Rosea speeds up the fat-burning cells in your body, it has been directly linked with increasing metabolism and stimulating better circulation of blood and oxygen within the body. When your organs receive more oxygen, they function more efficiently, particularly muscles, and nerve cells. Rhodiola Rosea benefits weight loss and fat burning by stimulating specific enzymes. When these enzymes are more present in the body, ATP releases from the Mitochondria, which are the energy-producing power plants of our cells. It also enables enhanced uptake of glucose and fatty acids into our muscle cells. The entire process improves fat burning and metabolism and boosts cellular efficiency.

Strengthens Muscles and Speed Up Muscle Recovery

This herb also has the ability to increase red blood cell (RBC) counts. It performs this task by stimulating EPO (erythropoietin). EPO is a hormone produced by our kidneys that promotes the formation of red blood cells. Our muscles can function at peak performance by improving oxygen and nutrient flow. This allows you to exercise more often, and stimulate more muscle growth overall. Rhodiola prevents the negative effects of the stress hormone cortisol, which leads to better muscle growth and post-workout recovery. Plus, it stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate (CP) and boosts the energy needed for accelerated training.

Heart Health and Immunity

Research has shown that Rhodiola Rosea can regulate the heartbeat, eliminate heart arrhythmias, and prevent atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. This herb can also stimulate the production of immune cells, which improves the immune response and establishes homeostasis within the body.

How to Take Rhodiola?

Rhodiola extracts, capsules, or herbal formulations are available from a variety of sources. 200mg is considered to be the standard dosage. If you’re taking this supplement above the moderate dosage, side effects may include allergy, increased libido, chest pains, insomnia, and increased blood pressure.

Dried Rhodiola root pieces or powder can be used to make tea or tinctures. To extract the beneficial compounds in the root you do need to simmer it in hot water for at least 20-30 minutes or soak it in an alcohol menstruum for 2 weeks or longer if you are making a tincture out of it. 

I hope you enjoy the information, for more information on holistic health and natural remedies, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

Why Is Sleep the Best Medicine?

If you suffer from insomnia chronically, it can affect your gut health because gut and brain communication is bi-directional, it can also increase the stress hormone cortisol level, which contributes to chronic inflammation that increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
 
The glymphatic system is a waste collector that picks up toxins and waste in your brain and nervous system. This housekeeping system works best during your sleep, which makes sleep the perfect time for brain detoxification. One of the most important waste products that your glymphatic system helps to remove is the beta-amyloid proteins. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, beta-amyloid proteins play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, your sleep quality is linked to the risk of Alzheimer’s. When you have good sleep, the glymphatic system helps detoxify beta-amyloid proteins and other waste and slows down brain aging.
 
Improving your deep sleep is very important for brain detoxification, cognitive and neurological health, reducing inflammation, cellular rejuvenation, boosting your energy levels, and improving your immunity and overall health. Researchers have found that shift workers who have to adjust their sleep cycles experience more disturbed sleep and also have an increased risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. REM sleep is critical for deep cleansing of your brain, balancing your emotions, and boosting your mental health.
 
Today, I am going to introduce two simple remedies to boost your sleep quality. We have five senses, but many of us overlooked the amazing healing power of smell. You can make a small herbal pillow beside your bed that can induce deep and restful sleep.
 
Here are the recipes for your sleep pillow:
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons of lemon balm
2 teaspoons of rose petals
2 teaspoons of lavender
2 teaspoons of camomile
1 teaspoon of dill seeds
 
Recipe for babies:
2 handfuls of camomile
1 teaspoon of dill seeds
 
Method:
Mix everything and put them in a small bag. Place it next to your pillow or under your pillowcase. You will find yourself drifting to sleep easily with these soothing scents.
 
Many of us have been using nutmeg as a spice in the kitchen. Did you know that nutmeg helps induce deep sleep? Nutmeg and poppy seeds are great sleep remedies, nutmeg takes about four hours to induce sleep and California poppy seeds work in 15 minutes, this two combining together can increase your sleep duration and quality. You will need to take the nutmeg four hours before your sleep to maximize its effects. The best way to take nutmeg is to crush a whole nutmeg before taking it, you can take half of it with a glass of water. Poppy seeds are also great for hair and skin, they benefit your heart and digestion too.
 
Here are some amazing health benefits of nutmeg:

• Enhances digestion and reduces diarrhea.
• Improves sleep quality and relieves insomnia.
• Relieves joint pain and muscle spasms due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stimulates the brain’s nerve cells, lifts mood, and reduces stress.
• Helps eliminate toxins in the body, boosts metabolism, and promotes weight loss.
• Nutmeg is rich in myrislignan which helps treat liver inflammations.
• Enhances the circulation of blood, regulates blood pressure, and reduces high cholesterol.
   

I hope you enjoy the information; I will give a presentation at “Know Your Service Provider” on Dec.1^st in Nanaimo about how nutrition plays a role in your sleep. Please check my poster below for more details. I am looking forward to meeting you there.

How to Listen to the emergency Calls from Your Internal Organs?

Have you ever had these feelings? Your arms often feel sore and numb, and your calves are prone to cramps when you sleep at night. You may wonder what’s going on. This is because our internal organs have accumulated too many toxins, and the body is sending us a distressful signal and asking for help. Regular detoxification is absolutely necessary for a healthy body, but do you know where the toxins are hiding in your body? Let’s explore.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an issue with your kidneys can affect your voice and your speech quality, and your voice may sound hoarse. If you have heart issues, your left arm may be sore, numb, and painful; and you are more prone to tongue ulcers, insomnia, and heart palpitations. When your spleen and stomach are weak, you may experience migraine and fat accumulation, especially in the abdomen. If your liver is stressed out, you may experience cramps in your calves at night when you sleep; and the surface of your nails may have raised ridges or sunken downwards. When you suffer from lung issues, you may experience constipation because the lung meridian is associated with the large intestine meridian, and you may be more emotionally sensitive to sadness and grief.

If there is an issue with the internal organs, it is necessary to detoxify them in a targeted manner, otherwise, the accumulation of toxins will cause more damage to the body down the road. Let’s look into the solutions on how to detoxify each organ specifically.

Detoxify the Heart

The “Shaofu”(HT-8) acupoint is one of the most important acupoints on your palm when it comes to detoxifying the heart meridian. When a loose fist is made, the Shaofu acupoint is located at the tip of the little finger between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones. You can add some pressure when pressing this point and alternative both of your hands.

Did you know that foods with a bitter taste help detoxify the heart meridian? The most popular remedy from TCM to detoxify the heart meridian is the core of lotus seeds, it looks like a small green shoot and has a bitter taste. It disperses the excess fire in the heart meridian but does not affect the Qi (energy flow) in the body, so it has been considered the best food to dissolve excess heat in the heart meridian due to toxins overload. You can use it to make tea, and add some licorice root to enhance the potency of its detoxification.

The best time to detoxify the heart meridian is around noon between 11 am to 1 pm because the energy is peaking in the heart meridian during this period. Foods with red color help nurture the heart, such as dates and berries. Longan fruit has been long regarded as a heart-tonifying fruit. A short nap during this period also helps rejuvenate your heart and facilitate the detoxification process. 

To read more, please click here.

If you are interested in a supplement that helps the body remove toxins and toxic heavy metals more efficiently, please check here.

Why Is A Healthy Bile Flow Critical for Your Health?

Did you know that a healthy bile flow is also critical for liver detox? Liver detox involves three phases. Phase three is the final conversion where toxins are ready for excretion in the bile or urine. This is why a healthy bile flow is critical to help remove toxins from the body through the intestinal tract.

Most people believe that gallstones can be found only in the gallbladder. The truth is that most gallstones are actually formed in the liver and a few occur in the gallbladder. Apart from assisting with the digestion of fat, calcium, and protein foods, bile is needed to maintain normal fat levels in the blood, remove toxins from the liver, help maintain proper acid/alkaline balance in the intestinal tract, and keep the colon from harmful pathogens. There is a close connection between bile production and thyroid function. Bile triggers the release of the enzymes that convert T4 to T3, which is the active form of thyroid hormones. T3 specifically supports brain function, heart function, and digestion and plays a role in your metabolic rate and bone health. According to studies in Finland, hypothyroidism is 7 times more likely in people with decreased bile flow. Fats are the building blocks of hormones, if you are not absorbing fat, your body is unable to make thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones also help relax the sphincter of ODDI, which is the muscular valve surrounding the exit of the bile duct and pancreatic duct into the duodenum. It controls the bile flow into the small intestines.
 
People with chronic illnesses often have several thousand gallstones blocking the bile ducts of the liver. People who are overweight or obese have a significantly higher rate of gallstones because being overweight increases the amount of cholesterol in the bile, which increases the risk of gallstones. People who undergo rapid weight loss are also at a higher risk of developing gallstones because the liver reacts by releasing extra cholesterol into the bile. Being overweight tends to reduce the amount of bile salts in the bile, which cause less cholesterol to be dissolved. Women are more likely to develop gallstones than men. The main reason is the female hormone - estrogen. Excess estrogen from pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, and birth control pills can potentially increase cholesterol levels in bile and decrease gallbladder movement, which leads to gallstones.

Many people don’t produce enough bile. Bile insufficiency is linked to many health challenges, such as bloating, indigestion, nausea, chronic fatigue, constipation, and back pain. 

How to boost the detoxification power of your liver and bile production in a simple way? Please check my recent video. 

A Natural Remedy for Psoriasis and Much More

Many people suffer from skin issues such as psoriasis these days due to the toxins overload from our food supplies, the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the skin and hair products we use. Today I am going to talk about a herb that helps relieve psoriasis and detoxify the body.

Sarsaparilla is a tropical plant from the genus Smilax. It is a woody and prickly vine that grows deep in the rainforest. It’s native to South America, Jamaica, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Its other common names include Liseron epineux, Liseron piquant, Salsaparilha, Zarzaparrilla, Khao yern, and Jupicanga, etc. Many parts of the sarsaparilla plant are used as flavorings in foods and beverages. Modern forms of the drink called sarsaparilla don’t contain any part of the plant.

The sarsaparilla root has been used medicinally for centuries. It contains plant sterols and natural antioxidants that are known to benefit human health. Indigenous people around the world used the root of the sarsaparilla plant for treating joint problems such as arthritis, and skin problems including psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. The root also has blood-purifying properties. It is also a rich source of flavonoids that are known to benefit the immune system and prevent cellular damage. Chemicals known as saponins can help reduce joint pain and skin itching and also kill bacteria due to their anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Another compound in sarsaparilla called astilbin treats psoriasis. Studies have shown that sarsaparilla root can protect collagen production from damage due to the sun rays. Saponins are also referred to as natural steroids that can help relieve many symptoms associated with menopause. Sarsaparilla also possesses diuretic properties that help reduce water retention, puffiness, and swelling. One of the traditional uses of sarsaparilla was to cleanse the blood of impurities and eliminate toxins by binding to the toxins, which helps protect the liver.

Don’t confuse sarsaparilla with Indian sarsaparilla, which is called Hemidesmus indicus. Indian sarsaparilla is sometimes used in sarsaparilla preparations but doesn’t have the same active chemicals as sarsaparilla.

The effect of sarsaparilla may vary depending on which specific type of sarsaparilla plant is used and which parts are included. The root is most often used medicinally.
The health benefits of sarsaparilla include the following:

• Relieve rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Contain astibin that helps treat psoriasis.
• Prevent seasonal colds and flu and relieve coughs and fevers.
• Protect the liver from damage.
• Fight against many cancers and boost immunity.
• Promote weight loss.
• Detoxify the body and purify the blood.

Cautions: taking a large amount of sarsaparilla may cause stomach irritation. It is a diuretic and increases urine output, therefore, it is best not to take sarsaparilla while you are dehydrated.

You can take this amazing medicinal herb in a supplement form, but the best way is to use the root to make your herbal tea. Here is how to do it: boil up a cup of water and add a teaspoon of your finely chopped sarsaparilla roots. Allow it to steep for at least 20 minutes before draining the mixture. You can drink it several times a day, especially when coming down with a cold or fever. It is a great remedy to put your health back on track quickly. What do you think?

I just added a new service: ear candling. Ear candling helps relieve annoying tinnitus, removes excess ear wax and also reduces headaches, sinus infections, vertigo, and improves hearing. The ear candles I use are made from pure beeswax and essential oils, with no preservatives of any kind. If you are allergic to essential oils, I also have unscented ones. As an add-on service to my other TCM treatments, it is $20 for one treatment, a single treatment is $30. Please click here to check more details.

Why the Oral and Sinus Health Matters

Gut health has been a hot topic these days, many people are aware of the leaky gut syndromes and SIBO (bacteria overgrowth in the small intestine). But your digestive tract starts from your mouth. Have you ever thought that the leaky gut may relate to the imbalance of the oral microbiome? Maybe your dental surgery is overkill for your oral health? Let’s talk about root canal treatment, it basically applies antibiotics to the dead cells in your gum, which means applying acute care to chronic infection, this may pose risks of potential infection later on. Has your dentist discussed with you the potential health consequences before the surgery? Or do you solely rely on your dentist to save your teeth? It is time to look into different options before jumping to a conclusion. According to TCM, your mouth is linked to many meridians, such as the spleen, stomach, kidney, heart, and liver meridians. Therefore, your oral health can significantly impact your cardiovascular system, your gut health, and much more.

How to take care of your oral health with some simple self-care tips? Oil pulling is a great way to prevent oral cavities and improve the self-defense mechanism of your oral microbiome. Oil pulling kills harmful bacteria in the mouth and prevents bad breath and cavities. It also improves gum health by reducing inflammation, reducing plaque and gingivitis, and stimulating saliva production, which is needed to help break down the nutrients in your foods. The key is to make it a daily practice and make sure you swish the coconut oil around in your mouth for at least 10 minutes and slowly increase the duration.

What about mouth breathing habits at night? When you sleep with your mouth open, you keep elevating the stress hormone cortisol in your body all night long, plus:

• Impaired sleep. While it may seem like you can get more air through your mouth, this breathing method reduces oxygen absorption in your lungs. The result is a lack of deep.
• Dry mouth. Breathing through your nose introduces air to the mucus lining within your nostrils. This mucus plays three roles: warming and moisturizing the air before it is absorbed by your lungs.
• Bad breath. A symptom of dry mouth is bad breath. As the mouth dries out, your saliva glands try to compensate but are rapidly overwhelmed by the continual influx of dry air. Saliva helps wash down food particles, staving off bacterial growth which reduces unpleasant odors.
   

Taping your mouth at night can be an option in order to train your mouth to close at night if it is necessary.
 
Let’s talk about the nasal microbiome, which is not only linked to your lung health but also affects your brain health. If your nasal microbiome is compromised, harmful pathogens can travel to the canals of your brain through the nasal passage and damage the neurons and brain cells, which can cause brain fog, anxiety, and panic attacks. The energy is peaking in the lung meridian in the fall according to TCM, this is the time to take care of your lung health. One simple tip to prevent sinus infection is to apply a thin layer of coconut oil with a cotton swab in your nostrils, coconut oil not only helps increase the moisture in your nasal passage but also prevents sinus infections due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial activities. This technique is simple and effective to improve your sinus health.
 
Prevention is the key, all you need is to develop a healthy daily routine and take charge of your own health. For more information on self-care tips and natural remedies, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

Bring Wild Medicinal Foods to Your Garden

It is the season to pick the wild mushrooms again. Did you know that you can bring these nutrients packed delicious foods to your backyard so you can enjoy them more often? All you need is to dig a hole and plant them in your backyard, and they will blossom in your backyard next year. This is more sustainable and a great way to create a diverse garden for your health.

Two cancer-fighting mushrooms are worth mentioning.

Shiitake mushrooms extract has been used in herbal remedies for thousands of years in Eastern medicine. Like other fungi, shiitake mushrooms offer a variety of phytochemicals such as lentinan and laminarin, which are polysaccharides that have anti-tumor effects and promote the death of cancer cells, as well as lentinacin or eritadenine that have cholesterol-lowering effects. Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates containing two or more monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds. The unique polysaccharides in shiitake mushrooms were considered primary anti-cancer compounds such as lentinan and beta-glucan. But many non-polysaccharide compounds in shiitake mushrooms also have anti-tumor effects and work together to achieve these amazing anti-cancer results. Shiitake mushrooms are a very good source of antioxidant minerals such as manganese, selenium, and zinc, as well as other powerful antioxidants including L-ergothioneine, which is a remarkable antioxidant that protects cells from the damage caused by free radicals and strengthens your immune function, it also protects against neurotoxins that contribute to cognitive decline.

Agaricus mushroom is considered a “cure-all” herb in Japan. It is a Brazilian rainforest fungus that is among the premier immune system tonics of all known natural substances. It is the richest source of polysaccharides known as beta-glucans, which have been solidly established to be among nature’s most potent immune-boosting agents. Agaricus has double-direction activity on the immune system. In other words, it can be used to boost a weakened immune system, or it can be used to moderate an excessive system in cases of autoimmune disease and allergies. This means it is an immune modulator. It also helps suppress excess inflammatory cytokines and simultaneously helps boost cancer killer cell response in cancer patients.

The amazing health benefits of Agaricus mushroom include the following:

• Fight against cancers with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Relieve chronic fatigue and boost energy levels.
• Balance blood sugars for diabetes.
• An immune modulator that provides antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. 
• Reduce high cholesterol and improve heart functions.
• An adaptogen that manages and balances endocrine functions. 

Are you ready to bring these powerful healing foods to your garden? It is time to take action. For more information on holistic health and natural remedies, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

The Myth between Cholesterol and Heart Disease

Cholesterol has been blamed for the risk of heart disease for a long time. Cholesterol is essential for the body to make hormones; it also helps the body to move toxins out of the body. No correlation exists that the lower the cholesterol, the better the heart health. If you take medications to lower your cholesterol such as statins, they not only increase the toxicity in the liver but also deplete Co-Q10 in your body, which is a compound made by your body and stored in the mitochondria of your cells. CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that improves heart function, increases ATP production, and limits oxidative damage. It protects the brain, heart, and muscles. There are more mitochondria needs in heart muscle cells than in any other area of our bodies. In addition to creating muscle weakness and pain throughout the body and promoting dementia symptoms with these drugs, heart attack risk is increased by starving the heart of CoQ10.  The source of coronary heart disease is not even cholesterol. It’s arterial inner wall inflammation caused by processed foods and excess sugars. It has nothing to do with saturated fats based on recent research. In other words, the cholesterol-lowering drugs you are taking do more harm than good to your heart in the long run. A healthy diet and an active lifestyle are far more important than drugs for your heart health.

What are the causes of chronic inflammation in the body? Toxins, parasites, and these two go hand in hand because toxins feed off parasites. Stress is another cause of chronic inflammation in the body that many have overlooked.

Based on my observation after working in healthcare for many years and doing readings since I was 9 years old. I have noticed that people who suffer from ongoing emotional stress are more prone to heart issues. This is because chronic stress triggers inflammatory responses in the body.

According to recent research, emotional stress can contribute to the development of chronic heart disease, or trigger acute cardiac problems in people who already have heart disease.

Did you know that the simplest and most effective way to manage your stress is your breathing? In a relaxed parasympathetic state, the body sends 50% of blood to the liver and kidneys. In a stressed and fight-to-fight sympathetic state, the body only sends 2% of blood to the liver and kidneys, there is also an 80% decrease in the blood flow to the gut. When your breathing is shallow, this is where anxiety and panic attacks come from. It also affects your gut health and weakens your immunity.
 
The tongue is the strongest muscle in the body. If it is not properly positioned, it puts strains on the cervical muscles that affect the neck and shoulders. The tongue should be in a relaxed position and touch the roof of your mouth, and the tip of the tongue should touch the back of the front teeth, this tongue position has been addressed by the ancient wisdom of TCM for thousands of years, now, we just understand why. Did you know that the number one cause of oral cavity is the habit of mouth breathing? It affects the oral microbiome and PH level. Breathing through the nose also prevents dry mouth. Nose breathing also improves the oral microbiome which helps increase nitric oxide, which is a vital molecule produced in your body that impacts many aspects of health. It helps blood vessels dilate to promote proper blood flow and provides various health benefits, including improved exercise performance, managing diabetes, lowering blood pressure, and better brain function. It can boost heart health by making blood platelets less sticky. It is the number one anti-aging compound that also has antiviral and antibacterial properties, it also enhances your heart function and boosts your libido.
 
Did you know that you can use your hands to reduce high blood pressure effectively? Two blood pressure spots on your ears can effectively lower your blood pressure if you massage them regularly. Please check the post below for locations. I hope you enjoy the information, for more information on holistic health and self-healing tips, please visit https://optimalhealthsolutions.ca.

Detox and Weight Loss

Did you know that fat cells are a storage room for toxins? When our bodies are overburdened by toxicity, it can lead to not only feeling drained energetically, but it can also contribute to weight gain. These toxins affect our body functions and slow down our metabolic rate. 

A healthy lymphatic system is critical for successful weight loss because it provides efficient drainage to help remove toxins and waste from the body. Many people are aware that the liver is the detoxification center, but your lymphatic system helps move the toxins and sweep them quickly out of the body through the colon. When our body is loaded with pesticides, fungicides, drugs, xenohormones, GMO food, petroleum-based cosmetics, petroleum-based solvents and detergents, pollutants in the air, toxic heavy metals, and other toxic chemicals, they not only make the liver overwork and also contribute to a sluggish liver, these toxins are dumped into your lymphatic system and fat cells. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fat is considered waste built up in the body due to a weak spleen meridian, which totally correlates to an insufficient lymphatic system. And the most favorite place for the fat cells is in your belly because abdominal fat is highly inflammatory, it mobilizes easily into the bloodstream and contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation.

The hepatic portal vein is a blood vessel that carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen to the liver. The liver and intestine are tightly linked through the venous system of the portal circulation. Consequently, the liver is the primary recipient of gut-derived products, especially dietary nutrients and microbial components. It functions as a secondary “firewall” and protects the body from intestinal pathogens and other microbial products that have crossed the primary barrier of the intestinal tract. The intestinal barrier damage increases the detrimental microbial exposure to the liver, so the liver is closely connected to our gut health. When you cleanse your colon, you also help cleanse the liver.

Toxins don’t only come in the form of chemicals. What about emotional toxins, or toxic energies, that can affect our ability to lose weight? From energy medicine, excessive weight is the manifestation of layers of emotional baggage and limiting beliefs.

How to treat the body as a whole and detox more efficiently and lose weight easily? Please check my recent video.

Why Should You Take Care of Your Lungs Now?

There are 24 seasons in the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which works with the body more closely. Now we just entered the Fall season based on these 24 seasons. The energy is peaking in your lung meridian. This is the time to take care of your lungs and strengthen your lung function to prevent a cold or flu during the cold winter. Food with white colors soothes your lungs based on TCM, such as pears, cabbage, cauliflowers, and mushrooms. Lobok is a great lung healing food that treats and prevents coughs. 

Have you heard about horseradish? Horseradish root is packed with nutrition and is rich in many key nutrients, including calcium, fiber, zinc, Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and manganese. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from cellular damage. Many studies suggest that horseradish helps prevent the growth of colon, lung, liver, and stomach cancer. Horseradish tastes hot and spicy. It originated in south-eastern Europe, where it was once called “red cole” in England and “sea radish” in Germany, and eventually, it spread all over the world. Horseradish is cultivated primarily for its large roots, which have brown skin and pure white inside.

Horseradish has exceptionally high vitamin C content. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that boosts your immune functions and enhances the detoxification abilities of your liver. The anti-cancer properties of horseradish come from its bioactive component allyl isothiocyanate, which is known to prevent various cancers. Allyl isothiocyanate also offers antimicrobial properties that can offer protection against a variety of microbes. For instance, roast beef added with horseradish essential oil displayed the most resistance against bacterial growth. Other compounds in horseradish, such as glucosinolate and sinigrin, also possess chemo-preventive effects. Horseradish is known to treat respiratory disorders, the antibiotic properties of the root can play a major role in treating respiratory ailments. including mucus from a cold and sinusitis. It has been used in traditional medicine for treating bronchitis, cough, common cold, and sinusitis. Studies have shown that horseradish has an antibacterial component called allyl isothiocyanate, which help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). This is because it has both antibacterial and diuretic properties. It also contains natural chemicals called isothiocyanates, which promote weight loss by increasing your metabolism naturally. Horseradish is part of a group called cholagogues because it triggers the gallbladder to release bile that aids digestion.

Here Are some amazing health benefits of horseradish.

• Clears sinus passages and clears out mucus.
• Helps treat UTIs due to its antibacterial and diuretic properties.
• Promotes weight loss due to its low calories and high fiber content.
• Aids digestion.
• Prevents hair loss and boosts hair growth.
• Reduces age spots.
• Increases the liver’s ability to detoxify toxins.
• Prevents cancers and boosts immunity due to its rich antioxidant content.

How to use horseradish externally to reduce age spots? You can make horseradish paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for about 20 minutes and then wash it off with water. You can try this tip a few times a week. Alternatively, you can grate a piece of horseradish root and mix it with a small amount of apple cider vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for about two weeks and strain it. Use a cotton swap to apply it to the affected areas. Follow this remedy three times a day for about a month. This is way cheaper and more effective than expensive cosmetics out there to reduce age spots. 

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