CALCIUM
Calcium is essential to strong bones and may prevent osteoporosis.

CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE
Calcium pantothenate nutritionally supports the glandular system and helps promote a feeling of well-being.

CAMOMILE
Camomile has been traditionally used for treating insomnia, anxiety, menopausal depression, loss of appetite, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, colic, aches and pains of flu, migraine, neuralgia, teething, vertigo, motion sickness, conjunctivitis, inflamed skin, and urticaria.

CAMOMILE AND ELDERFLOWER TEA
Drinking Camomile and Elderflower tea can help reduce the symptoms of Hay Fever.

Camomile Essential Oil
Soothing and relaxing to both body and mind, easing anxiety, tension, anger and fear. Promotes relaxation, patience, a sense of peace, and allays worry. Often helpful in insomnia.
Chamomile is known to be an emmenogogue and therefore should be avoided in early pregnancy.

CANCER
See the following:-
Beta-glucans, cruciferous vegetables, Flaxseed oil, Raspberries, Rosemary, Selenium, Honey and Cinnamon

www.cancerbuddiesnetwork.org is an online network for anyone affected by cancer who wants to talk to others going through a similar experience.

CAPRYLIC ACID
Caprylic acid is a nutrient derived from coconuts which helps burst yeast cells and hinder their reproduction.

CARDIOSPERNUM
The flowering tropical vine Cardiospermum halicacabum, a plant that has been used as a medicine in Africa & India for centuries, has been prescribed for years by European skin specialists and family doctors. In a study of 833 patients with eczema, better than 4 out of 5 subjects reported improvement or remission of symptoms (inflammation, swelling, scaling, blisters/vesicles, dry skin, itching, burning and pain).

CARNITINE
L-carnitine is an amino acid which nourishes the heart, nourishes and strengthens muscles, and nutritionally supports the circulatory system. L-Carnitine is considered to be a "carrier" of fat to the mitochondria or "fatburning" area of the cell. This remarkable amino acid-like substance is not only necessary for the metabolism of fat at the cellular level; it is also essential in the forming of firm, lean muscle tissue in the body. Recent studies support earlier research which shows that the heart has the greatest amount of L-Carnitine of any muscle in the body. L-Carnitine has also shown to be instrumental in the metabolism of cholesterol. Some overweight people may lack L-Carnitine in their bodies. The heart produces most of its energy from fats; thus is dependent upon L-carnitine. An L-Carnitine deficiency causes extreme metabolic impairment to heart tissue. On the other hand, supplemental L-Carnitine has proved to be beneficial to heart patients.

CASHEWS
Contain heart healthy monosaturated fatty acid and rich in vitamins and minerals that support bones and joints.

CAT’S CLAW
Cat's Claw has been used for Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, leaky bowel syndrome, colitis, haemorrhoids, fistulas, gastritis, ulcers, parasites, intestinal flora imbalance, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, environmental toxic poisoning, organic depression and those infected with the HIV virus. Most of the clinical research which show these alkaloids to be antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, antimutagenic, antioxidant, etc., are tests done "in-vitro" (proven in the test tube) not "in-vivo" (proven in the human body).

CAULIFLOWER
A new study published in the International Journal of Cancer indicates that people who eat broccoli, cauliflower or other cruciferous vegetables had a 29 percent less chance of getting bladder cancer than people who consumed the lowest amount.

The active ingredient that cauliflower contains is isothiocyanates or ITCs. Dr. Hua Zhao and fellow researchers from the Anderson Cancer Center which is part of the University of Texas M.D, conducted studies to discover how isothiocyanates did their work. They found that the ITCs were a de-toxicant which encouraged abnormal cells to commit suicide and normal cells to develop particularly well. Further investigations using animals revealed that ITCs could work as a prevention to tumor growth and possibly reduce the risk of getting colon and lower lung cancer.

Dr Zhao thought that ITCs would be especially effective in bladder cancer prevention as the compounds produced during ITC metabolism were flushed away in the urine. To clarify this, the team compared 697 patients with bladder cancer and 708 health people. The ITC intake was determined in each group and it was found that the cancer sufferers had a significantly lower intake than the healthy control group.

The exact amounts of cruciferous vegetable eaten daily by the two groups were 1.41 half cups for the cancer group and 1.76 half cups for the control group. The researchers felt that this was a large enough difference to conclude that ITCs were making a difference.

CAYENNE
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.

It also helps with dizziness. Put a pinch of cayenne pepper into a glass of warm water and sip. The warmth of the water and the heat of the cayenne helps the body to pump more blood and oxygen to the brain, making you feel steadier.

CELERY SEED
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.

CELL THERAPY
Cell therapy promotes physical regeneration through the injection of healthy cellular material into the body. It is used to stimulate healing, counteract the effects of aging, and treat a variety of degenerative diseases.

CETYL MYRISTATE
See Cetyl myristate, cetyl myristoleate, and other cetyl esters help lubricate the joints, increasing mobility and encouraging a more active lifestyle. These ingredients have captured significant attention recently with researchers and scientists involved in the discovery of natural ingredients that support joint health.

CHAKRA BALANCING
Chakra balancing is the clearing of energy blocks from the chakras. By utilizing various methods, the obstructed energy in the chakras can be balanced and harmonized. Chakras are like relay stations for the vital Life Force energy, and serve as channels of communication between an individual's inner nature or subtle body and physical body. There are seven chakras and each has a particular gland, organ, or area of the body, and a mental, emotional, or spiritual feeling.

CHELATION THERAPY
Chelation therapy is an intravenous treatment designed to bind heavy metals in the body in order to treat heavy metal toxicity. Proponents claim it also treats coronary artery disease and other illnesses that may be linked to damage from freeradicals (reactive molecules).

CHILBLAINS
See Ginger

CHILD BIRTH
see Lavendar Essential Oil

CHINESE CLUB MOSS
see Huperzia serrata

CHIROPRACTIC
Chiropractic is a mode of bodywork that promotes self-healing by manipulating the spine so as to remove blocks in the transmission of nerve impulses from the brain through the spinal nerve and out to all parts of the body. It postulates that malfunction in any aspect of the individual can be attributed to subluxations, misalignments of the vertebrae that disturb the spinal nerves in their mediation of mind and body. Further, chiropractic subscribes to the basic principle that the immune system will function perfectly and maintain the person in robust, good health as long as misalignments of the spine do not constrict the nervous system.

CHITOSAN
Chitosan provides a natural source of fibre and acts like other dietary fibres by benefiting the circulatory system. It also helps the body maintain normal functions of digestion and elimination. Researchers believe that if we cleanse our colon with frequent bowel movements, we can rid ourselves of these dangerous toxins, therefore reducing our risk for disease.

Chitosan acts like a sponge to soak up fat as it passes through the digestive tract. It can bind six to ten times its own weight in fats and oils, preventing them from being absorbed into the body.

In recent trials, people who added Chitosan to their calorie controlled weight loss programme lost an average of 8% of their body weight.

Caution: You should avoid chitosan if you are allergic to shellfish, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

CHOLESTEROL
See the following:-
Artichoke,
Brewers Yeast,
Honey and Cinnamon
Inositol,
Lecithin,
Vitamin A

CHOLESTEROL
See Brewers Years

CHOLINE
Choline helps in the formation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, which assists brain function and health. It also helps the body break down fats effectively.

CHONDROITIN
Chondritin is a substance that helps to form a sponge-like formula that acts as a shock absorber. It also plays a key role in the smooth working of cartilage, tendons and ligaments, and helps to attract fluid into the cartilage. Works well with Glucosamine.

CHROHN’S DISEASE
See Cat's Claw

CHROMIUM
Chromium is necessary for the body to convert glucose to energy. A U.S. Department of Agriculture study has shown that nine out of ten Americans get less than the low end range of chromium recommended by the National Academy of Sciences. Biologically-active chromium (as found in ChromaTone), helps maximize the body's efficient use of insulin. Insulin regulates the metabolism of blood sugar, lipids (including cholesterol) and protein. Studies also indicate that chromium, when combined with appropriate exercise, has very positive muscle-tissue building and toning properties.

CHROMIUM POLYNICOTINATE
See Chromium polynicotinate is nutritionally beneficial as an appetite suppressant and for normalizing blood sugars.

CINNAMON
Cinnamon works as an antioxidant, and has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Maily, it is used to reduce and maintain a healthy blood sugar level. A compound found in Cinnamon is believed to mimic insulin which can help to increase insulin intake, thus lowering blood sugar levels.

Cinnamon has received much publicity since early 2004 about its effectiveness in reducing high cholesterol and triglycerides. Cinnamon bark or oil has been used to fight microorganisms, diarrhea and other gastro-intestinal disorders, and dysmennorhea.

Citronella Essential Oil
Has a clearing and uplifting effect on the mind which could help feelings of depression.
Useful as an insect repellent, for which it is best applied in a spray or diffuser. Also may be used as a general tonic for the body and an aid to clear the mind. May be helpful against headaches and neuralgias.

CIRCULATION

See the following:-

Pine Needle Essential Oil
Tangerine Essential Oil
Cayenne
Ginger
Horse chestnut
Niacin
Nicotinamide

Clary Sage Essential Oil
A very relaxing and even sedating oil. Good for an over-active racing mind and panicky states. Conducive to euphoric feelings of well-being. (Note: can make concentration difficult and should not be used before driving. Also alcohol should not be taken as it can result in nausea.)

A good tonic for the womb and helpful with uterine problems. Helpful with pre-menstrual tension and painful cramps in the lower back.

Clove Essential Oil
Positive and uplifting effect on the mind, lifting depression and strengthening memory.

Beneficial to the digestive system and is renown for relieving wind by reducing gripping. Helpful against vomiting, diarrhoea, intestinal spasm, dyspepsia and parasites.

A very potent oil and should be used with caution - massage may not be a good medium of application since skin irritation could occur.

COD LIVER OIL
Cod liver oil and Omega 3 are very beneficial to joint health. Traditional thought to ‘lubricate’ the joints, it is now known that they benefit the joints by reducing the inflammation that damages the cartilage and supporting the overall cell structure.

Cod liver oil also helps with symptoms of depression. The latest study took place in Norway and included data from almost 19000 people between ages of 40 and 49 and 2848 people between ages of 70 and 74.. Nearly 9% of those surveyed reported using cod liver oil daily. These people had fewer symptoms of depression than those who did not take cod liver oil, and their depression risk diminished with the length of time they had been tasking it. Those who had used cod liver oil for more than nine months had the lowest level of depressive symptoms – about 30% lower than people who had not used cod liver oil in the past year.

COENZYME Q10

Studies that have been conducted on this co-enzyme in the past 40 years demonstrate that it can help maintain healthy immune and cardiovascular systems, tissues and organs, and oral health (especially the gums). It also assists the body to maintain proper weight balance.

COENZYME Q10 facilitates energy release in all the tissues, so it’s great for treating fatigue. It’s in meat, fish, brown rice, pasta and bread, or you can take a supplement.

The supplement helps to neutralise free radicals and is particularly beneficial for the heart as Co-Enzyme Q deficiency tends to be prevalent in people with heart problems. It also helps release vital energy from food and without it the body cannot produce the energy needed to carry out various functions.

It also helps alleviate prickly heat

COLDS and FLU

A cold is a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract caused by one of 120 viruses known as rhinoviruses. Influenza is also a virus and has similar symptoms, often more severe.

The treatment programme:

Cold symptoms include a headache, sore throat, cough, running or blocked nose, sinus pain and tiredness. Flu usually has all of these symptoms and also eye ache, glandular swelling and melancholy. It is important to treat the virus but also vital to strengthen the immune system against the infection.

Recommended herbs:

Use the following individually or in combination. Standard dosage is 15 drops of tincture (of each tincture, if you are combining remedies) in a little water or juice three times a day unless otherwise stated. Take a combination of herbs, such as thyme, lemon balm, astragalus, St John’s Wort or olive leaf at the first symptoms. Repeat every one to two hours during the day, for at least two or three days.

Essential supplements:

● Vitamin C: Helps improve immunity by increasing the production of the virus-inhibitor interferon, as well as other immune cells. Dosage: 500mg, four times a day.

● Zinc: The antiviral and antioxidant is crucial for the function of immune cells. Dosage: 15mg, twice a day.

● Vitamin A: Speeds up healing of the mucous membranes of the lungs and throat, and can help combat catarrh. Dosage: One 5,000iu capsule, daily (avoid if pregnant).
Foods to eat: Nuts and seeds, which supply antioxidants and zinc.

Homeopathic Treatment

• If suffering from fever,sore throat oor ear ache – the best homeopathic treatment is Belladona 30c potency, taken every 2 hours until symptoms subside.
• If suffering from chronic dry cough, try Bryonia 30c potency three times daily until better. If the cough is loose, try Ferrum Phos 30C three times daily until better.
• If you have chronic, painful sinuses, try Kali. Bich three times daily until better.

The best way to take homeopathic remedies – these should be tipped onto the tongue, without touching them, avoiding food for at least 30 minutes before and after (water is OK) and avoiding caffeine, peppermints, toothpate at least 30 minutes either side.

See also the following:-
Hepar Sulph
Honey and Cinnamon
Xanthium Sibricum
Yarrow

Essential Oils:-
Basil
Eucalyptus
Frankincense
Lemon
Orange
Peppermint
Tea tree

COLD SORE
-see geranium

COLIC
see Camomile
See Fennel

COLITIS
See the following:-
Aloe vera
Cat's Claw

COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY
Colonic hydrotherapy, also known as colonics, high colonics, or colonic irrigation, is the practice of cleansing of the large intestine with warm purified water. A single colonic treatment is said to be equivalent to several enemas in removing toxic debris from the colon. This process hydrates the waste and the body, so that bodily fluids, such as blood, lymph, and mucus, can carry nutrients and waste more efficiently. It also softens and loosens waste for easier elimination. Impacted matter is removed from the colon with warm, salty water, making it easier to clear up allergies.

COLOR THERAPY
Color therapy, also known as chromatherapy, is based on the premise that certain colors are infused with healing energies. The therapy uses the seven colors of the rainbow to promote balance and healing in the mind and body.

CONSTIPATION
See the following:-
Aloe vera
Black Walnut
Essential Oils:-
Orange
Peppermint
Tangerine

COUGHS
The lungs are made up of a system of airways called bronchial tubes, lined with cells that secrete mucus. The mucus traps any particles that may enter the lungs when we breathe in, and these are then swept out of the lungs by tiny hairs, called cilia, that also line the airways. When something irritates the bronchial lining – an infection, a smoky environment, or a condition such as asthma – the lungs produce excess mucus. This in turn causes a spasmodic cough that is designed to expel the extra mucus and anything trapped in it.

The treatment programme: Coughs are difficult to treat but several herbs and homeopathic remedies are particularly effective at easing respiration and overcoming the cough sometimes within only a few days. All the remedies I’ve given are relevant for coughs no matter what their cause, unless I have specifically said otherwise.

Recommended herbs:

The following combination of herbs can see a cough disappear within two days if you take them promptly at the first signs of infection. Take 15 drops of each tincture in a little water or juice, three times a day until the cough has gone.

● Elecampane (Inula helenium) This herb activates the tissue of the upper respiratory tract to help you to bring up excess mucus, creating a stimulating but gentle expectorant. Elecampane also reduces bronchial spasms, meaning that it eases coughing, and also acts as an antibacterial agent if the cough is infection-related.

● Coltsfot (Tussilago farfara) Coltsfoot is an effective antitussive because it contains mucilage, bitter glycosides, and tannins, which work together to soothe the irritated mucous membranes and reduce inflammation in the airways of the lungs.

● Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis) Soothing and antispasmodic, lungwort can be particularly effective at reducing a nighttime cough, so relieving disturbed sleep.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) This soothing expectorant contains glycyrrhizinic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes that line the airways.

● Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Mullein soothes the throat and the bronchial passages. Classed as a relaxing reflex expectorant, this herb helps to ease congestion by reducing the viscosity of mucous secretions (phlegm), making them easier to expel.

.● See Fennel

Essential supplements:

As the lungs are an important part of our immune system, it is crucial to get them into prime health quickly. Increase the dosage of these immune-boosting supplements as follows for the duration of your cough, then return to your normal dosage. Vitamin (ester) C (500mg, four times daily) zinc (15mg, twice daily).

Nutritional advice:

During a cough your diet should boost your immunity and clear mucus from and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. Other than the usual junk and processed foods, the only foods you really need to avoid are dairy foods (except plain bio yogurt and cottage cheese), which can be mucus-forming.

Foods to eat:

Eat plenty of oranges, garlic, shellfish (especially zinc-rich oysters), lemons, onions, broccoli, carrots, nuts and seeds. Drink a cup of green tea a day. Ginger will help to reduce inflammation, while lemon and sweet potato will help to clear mucus.

CRACKED NAILS
See EFAs

CRAMP
See Ginger

CRANBERRY
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
Craniosacral therapy is a holistic healing practice that uses very light touching to balance the craniosacral system in the body, which includes the bones, nerves, fluids, and connective tissues of the cranium and spinal area.

CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES
Research conducted by Dr. Jon Michnovicz of the Institute for Hormone Research and Dr. Leon Bradlow of the Strang Institute, suggests that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts may reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain indoles - a unique class of phytonutrients that have been scientifically shown to balance hormone levels, detoxify the intestines and liver and reinforce the body's immune system.

CRYSTAL HEALING
Crystal healing is the use of crystals, usually cut from quartz, to restore energy in the body. It is based on the premise that crystals are energy converters that can turn vibrations from the body into electrical fields or charges. During treatment, crystals are placed along points on the body called chakras in Ayurvedic medicine or meridians in Oriental medicine. These points are energy centers that regulate the flow of energy in the body, and the strategically placed crystals help to stimulate energy flow through these centers. Some simpler forms of crystal therapy involve wearing crystals, placing them around the home, and holding them.

CUPPING
Cupping is a technique used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for certain health conditions. Glass or bamboo cups are placed on the skin with suction, which is believed to influence the flow of energy and blood in the body.

Cypress Essential Oil
Has a calming and soothing effect on the mind. An astringent which helps in many areas of excess fluidity - e.g. haemorrhages, oedema, excess bleeding, nose bleeds, heavy menstruation, sweating (especially of the feet) and incontinence.

Has been shown to be helpful with pre-menstrual tension as well as some of the difficult aspects of menopause - e.g. hot flushes and irritability.

As it tends to regulate the menstrual cycle, it is best not to use during pregnancy.

Home Page