The Yoga of Herbs

We’ve all heard of yoga before now, thanks in part to the Queen of pop herself, Madonna, but have you heard of the Yoga of Herbs?

The Yoga of Herbs is a book containing the detailed explanation and classification of herbs using the ancient system of Ayurveda, an ancient alternative medicine and healing system. All of the most important and influential herbs are included in this fascinating book including the most commonly used western herbs. All are introduced and explained with a profound Ayurvedic perspective and accompanied by a wealth of beautiful diagrams and charts, as well as detailed glossaries, appendices and an index for easy reference.

The system of Ayurveda is the traditional medicine native to the Indian Subcontinent. It is considered an alternative medicine and remains very influential across South East Asia. Involved in the process of Ayurveda medicine is how herbs, massage and yoga can help cure illness and prevent disease. It is “designed” to not only heal the physical body and keep it strong, but also the mind and spiritual self. The idea is that by keeping all three aspects healthy a person can stay free from a host of conditions or be cured of illness.

Everything from what food to eat, what healthy routines to adopt and a list of rules of ethical conduct are involved with the system of Ayurveda. In this respect it is an all encompassing system for health and is practiced widely across the East, becoming more popular in the West all the time.

Have any of you either read this book “The Yoga of Herbs” or had any experience with the ancient healing system of Ayurveda? As always we would love to hear you ideas and stories so please feel free to write in and leave your comments.

What is Chinese Medicine?

Chinese Medicine is the oldest healing system in the world, dating back as far as the 3rd Century BC. The whole idea is based on the principals of yin and yang which are opposite yet complementary universal forces and create balance within the body to allow the free flow of life energy (called qi).

Long term treatment has been known to cure patients of a range of symptoms that they never once associated with their main injury or complaint. It can also improve our body awareness and strengthen the immune system to aid a long and healthy life. The most commonly treated disorders by Chinese Medicine are anxiety, depression, arthritis, migraines, joint pain, asthma, colds and flu symptoms.

It has adapted well over the years so it is still as relevant today as it has always been. Research continues throughout the world into this ancient healing method and the tools involved.

Acupuncture is the most well known tool of Chinese Medicine. This method works by increasing circulation around the body and therefore stimulating the body’s healing process. During an acupuncture treatment endorphins are released which not only relaxes the body but it also regulates serotonin in the brain. Small needles are inserted into the patient’s skin in particular places according to the complaint or illness that needs treating. The needles are placed along the patient’s meridians (which are essentially pathways along which qi travels). By tapping into the energy in this way, the body can restore its balance and rid itself of the complaint for good.

Herbs and herbal remedies are a big part of Chinese Medicine. Herb formulations can be made from all sources including animal, mineral, fruit, seed and plant sources. Generally the herbal remedies can be taken in either a pill or tablet form, or as a tea. Here at Baldwin’s we have a range of products available and if you would like to know more about any of them, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have any of you tried Chinese Medicine? Did it work and cure you of the complaint? Send in your comments about Chinese Medicine below.

St John’s Wort

This herbal remedy has become very widely used around the world in the past couple of decades. It is considered by doctors and scientists across the globe as a valid form of medication for mild to moderate depression. Mental health problems, in particular depression are very prevalent throughout the world, and many sufferers rely on medication or anti-depressants to help. St John’s Wort offers a totally natural treatment for depression and because of this there are absolutely no side effects.

It isn’t so surprising that a natural substance such as St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) would be an effective medication as many of the drugs and medicines we see on the shelves today have a plant or flower base to them. Hundreds of tests and experiments have been carried out to determine what illnesses or conditions St John’s Wort is effective for treating. These have included depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, HIV, anxiety disorder, seasonal affective disorder and even dermatitis. Whilst many of first test results showed promising results for a good selection of these illnesses, there is not currently enough scientific evidence to suggest that St John’s Wort is an effective treatment for anything other than mild to moderate depression. However for this condition, St John’s Wort is a very powerful aid.

Time and time again scientific tests show St John’s Wort to be effective at tackling depression. It should be stated however that it is not very effective in cases of very severe or extreme depression, but for the millions of people who are affected by mild to moderate depression, it is an excellent medication. It allows people to be free from chemically produced drugs for which prescriptions are needed. Have any of you tried St John’s Wort and have you found it be effective? We would love to hear your comments or suggestions about this herbal remedy.

What is a herbal tincture?

A herbal tincture is an alternative to infusing herbs as the tincture can be added directly to a drink such as water or fruit juice. To make a herbal tincture, the herb is placed in a mixture of alcohol and water and then left at room temperature for 2 to 4 weeks. As this point the mixture is filtered and bottled. Generally the ratio of tinctures is 1 part herb to 3 parts liquid. The alcohol solution can vary in strength between 25% and 60%.

Because of the ease taking tinctures, they are particular popular amongst business travellers or those of us on the go. Just a few drops in a drink in the morning if all you need to do to receive the full benefits of the particular herb you taking. The small bottle is easily portable and very convenient too.

Here at Baldwin’s, not only do we offer discounts on large sizes of all our herbal tinctures, but at the moment we also have a 20% discount on our Baldwins Echinacea (angustifolia) Herbal Tincture. This is a good way to experience a herbal tincture without spending much money. You can receive all the benefits of a herbal tincture at Baldwin’s, but without any of the cost.

The benefits of herbal tinctures are numerous. Only a very small amount of the herb is needed and the solution stays potent and strong for many years. There are some herbal compounds that can only be extracted using alcohol, and the small but potent dosage goes to work right away.

Have any of you taken herbal tinctures in the past? Do you think they are something that is worthwhile, or did you not feel many of the benefits. Send in all of your comments below about herbal tinctures.

Foods to combat depression and lift fatigue

How many times have we heard that we have to have a healthy diet, but it really is true. What we ingest has a big effect on our health, well being and even mood. This week I thought it would be helpful to list the 10 things we should make sure we include in our diet, and what foods they are contained within to help improve our mood, fight depression and lift fatigue.

Zinc is vital to help our immune systems function and improve our metabolism and digestion. A zinc deficiency can lead to irritability and even loss of appetite. It can be found in wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, whole grain and high protein foods.

Vitamin B-3 (or niacin) needs to present in ample amounts in our bodies otherwise we are prone to depression, indigestion, irritability and even cold sores. Excessive drinking (of alcohol) can cause a deficiency. Natural sources of this vitamin are found in pork, chicken and oily fish like mackerel and salmon.

Omega-3 fatty acids are the hard hitters when it comes to fighting depression. Studies have shown they even help sufferers of more severe mental illness such as bi-polar disorder. Tuna, salmon, walnuts and canola oil are good sources of omega 3 fatty acids although it can also be taken via a supplement.

Water helps combat fatigue and improve mood. Furthermore it helps your skin and motor function. Drink at least 2 litres a day to really experience the benefits. Caffeine removes water from the body so drink even more water if you are a coffee drinker, or better yet, drink a herbal tea instead of the caffeine laden drink.

Vitamin E boosts our immune system and help fights infections as well as contributing to our overall health. Eat some nuts, seeds and plenty of fruit and vegetables each week to make sure you are getting enough.

Folic Acid levels need to stay high as studies in the past have linked low levels with depression. Sources of Folic Acid can be found in leafy green, beans, peanuts and orange juice.

Calcium helps combat stress as well as anxiety and low levels can result in poor sleep among other problems. Non dairy sources include broccoli and tofu otherwise it is milk, cheese and yoghurt.

Vitamin C is an excellent immune booster. Drink a glass of orange juice each day and include other citrus fruits in your diet like lemons and grapefruit.

Iron deficiency has very negative effects on our health. Low energy levels, fatigue and anemia can be caused. Good sources of iron include beans, beef, peas, nuts and spinach. Liver and beef are also sources however generally we should restrict how much red meat we eat.

Stocking up on these vital nutrients will ensure that you stay feeling well, sleeping better and remain in a positive and upbeat mood. Does anyone have any other tips on combatting depression, irritability and lifting our mood?