Natural Therapies/Remedies

Scars & Scar Tissue—

They Are Not Forever!

Mary Loveless
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

They may have been acquired by accident or a surgical procedure… Scars can be small or large and can cause problems. Some scars are barely noticeable, but others are thick, ropy and gnarly (keloid), with burn victims especially. These scars can also adhere to bone and organs. Some feel like a spider web or roots that travel in many directions. Scar tissue is repair tissue. It doesn’t have the ability of normal tissue to stretch well. It reminds me of duct tape. It does the job—but it’s still a repair job.

SURGICAL SCARS

Common complaints from surgery-related scars and scar tissue include:

  • Thyroid/tracheotomy/neck surgery: Difficulty swallowing, breathing, neck pain, loss of cervical range of motion
  • Open heart surgery: Diaphragm restricted, difficulty breathing, chest pain, thoracic/back pain, limited shoulder range of motion
  • Gallbladder, hernia, C-section, lap band, hysterectomy, appendectomy surgery: Abdominal pain/discomfort, back pain, bladder/bowel issues
  • Mastectomy/breast enhancement/breast reduction/lumpectomy surgery: Difficulty breathing, rib pain, back pain, frozen shoulder, neck pain
  • Knee surgery: Hip pain, difficulty squatting, back pain, patella pain, lower extremity swelling, valgus/varus
  • Episiotomy surgery: Painful intercourse, bowel/bladder issues, headaches, hip pain
  • Vasectomy surgery: Painful erections, testicular pain, bowel/bladder issues, elusive abdominal pain or back pain

ACCIDENTAL SCARS

Cuts, scrapes, burns or falls are never planned, but happen when you least expect them. Some injuries get stitches or are allowed to heal on their own. Others may require a skin graft that may cover a small or large area. Once again, scar tissue is laid down during the healing process, resulting in these common complaints:

  • Cuts or scrapes to the hands and feet (digits), or knees and elbows: Decreased flexibility and range of motion in either flexing or extending, or both
  • Burns to the arms, hands, face, chest or lap: Restricted movement of the skin or joints. The skin is our most heightened sensory organ. Burns and scarring are usually both painful and debilitating

Scar tissue can behave like a tourniquet; it can compress nerves and blood vessels. It can restrict range of motion and limit muscle function. There is hope though—it can be stretched and released. Through MFR, the compression forces of the scar tissue can be changed!

To find the nearest Myofascial Release Therapist, search MyofascialRelease.com. Mary Loveless, PTA, LMT, is an MFR Expert, Assist. Instructor, and a Montana Study Group Facilitator.

2024-02-29T09:43:55-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Juniper Berries…

For Seasoning Recipes, Flavoring Sauerkraut, and Infusing Beverages!

Marlenea La Shomb, N.D., P.Tr.
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

Juniper, Juniperus communis, is an evergreen shrub that grows abundantly here in Montana. In the pine family, the berries are green when immature, while ripe berries are blue/black. In the Western US, juniper also goes by cedar, so a reference to “cedar berries” can also mean juniper. Juniper berries can be used fresh-harvested or dried in a tea, as a tincture, and as the oil. The berries are high in nutrients and valuable plant compounds, with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

HOW TO USE JUNIPER BERRIES:
Unlike other berries, juniper berries are typical-ly used only in small amounts to flavor foods—not eaten in large portions. They have an astringent, pine-like taste, which makes them a popular ingredient for seasoning recipes, flavoring sauerkraut, and infusing beverages. They’re commonly sold dried—either whole or crushed—but can be harvested fresh as well. Juniper berry essential oil is also used in aromatherapy and said to be calming. Additionally, juniper-berry tea can be made at home using foraged juniper berries.

HEALTH & MEDICINAL USES:

  • Lung Disorders, including asthma and bronchitis.
  • Influenza & Colds. Navajo shamans use hot juniper tea.
  • Antidiabetic Properties. A Sioux recipe and a Spanish study have shown its efficacious use as a decoction (boiling and straining).
  • Heart Health. The berries improve HDL (good cholesterol levels), reduce high triglycerides.
  • Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity, attributed to potent compounds in their oil. For foot fungus, soak your feet in warm water with a few drops of juniper oil.

JUNIPER/CABBAGE SAUERKRAUT:

Use a 5-quart fermentation pot.

  • 8 lbs. white cabbage
  • 1/2 tbsp. caraway seeds
  • 3 1/2 tbsp. sea salt
  • 1 1/2 tbsp. juniper berries
  • 2 sour apples (optional)
  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Transfer to the fermentation pot and pack the mix tightly.
  2. Cover the last layer with a few large cabbage leaves.
  3. Use your favorite sauerkraut-making procedures…

New to fermentation? Refer to The Cultured Cabbage, by Klaus Kaufmann and Annelies Schöneck. It’s the very best book I’ve found on lactic-acid fermentation!

Marlenea La Shomb passionately works as a health coach and writer for all who are ready to find harmony and balance in body, mind, and soul through natural therapies and education.

2024-02-29T10:16:23-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies, Recipes|

Natural Joint Repair Without Pain Pills or Surgery

“Sometimes what looks like an obstacle from an injury is actually a gift meant to move you in a different direction.”

Nori (Hoff) Stark
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

My name is Nori (Hoff) Stark. I live in Victor, MT with my husband, Rudy. I have led a very interesting, blessed life, and a challenging one! I grew up in a family of twelve people—seven brothers and two sisters. We all rodeoed, ranched, and farmed for many years together. Riding calves, steers, a long cow once, doing barrel and poles. All the special events came with bumps, bruises, stitches, scars and, of course, bragging rights if I beat any of my brothers in the same event. Buckles, money, and trophies were our winners.

I continued to rodeo with my husband and our three children, Dixie, Dillon, and Emmett until 2000. We ranched, raised Catahoula dogs, calved out plenty of heifers and many mama cows throughout the years. We raised feedlots full of steers and 70 plus horses that I handled from halter-breaking the colts, and put the first 10–20 rides on them. That’s lots of wear and tear on one’s back, arms, and legs!

Ranching comes with big expenses, not just in livestock or the dead stock, but with whatever Mother Nature can do to knock you down and whatever Old Man Winter can do to shut you down. Season of excitement, as we used to say, along with the injuries you might sustain on a ranch.

In 2005, I was kicked in the face by a 700-pound steer. The kick broke all the bones on the right side of my face except for my lower jaw, and I received 8 plates and 22 screws. Then on Thanksgiving Day, 2012, I was in a head-on collision with a 97-mile-an-hour impact as a passenger! A 16-year-old girl, driving on a two-lane, icy, snow-covered highway, lost control of her car, sliding into our lane. She hit us not once but four times, bouncing off our 24-foot trailer. We all survived the horrible accident. Thank you, Jesus!

A few years later, I was hit by a drunk driver as I walked across the street in Cody, Wyoming. A woman blew through the red light at 40 miles an hour and hit me, throwing me into her windshield with my neck hitting the roof, sending me 30+ feet in the air, then dropping me back down on the street. I remember being badly hurt, yet I felt a sense of calm and comfort, as I knew I would be OK. His presence was with me. And by the grace of God, I had no broken bones, just very beat up shoulders.

A year later my blood sugar fell very low, and I fell on my face, shattering my nose and hurting my neck. Clearly, I have definitely had my share of mishaps in this life. At 115 pounds and 64 years of age, my body was quite beat up.

In the fall of 2022, I saw an ad and video on the Internet about Human Umbilical Cord Tissue (HUCT) injections with follow-up interviews from patients who had received positive results from the treatment. Being a tough girl and not wanting any kind of surgery, I called the Bozeman Joint Repair Clinic. I spoke to Jennifer Carter who explained the easy procedure of a total of three injections to the joint in need. She shared with me the many impressive praise reports of happy patients, as well as her own story of HUCT.

After an initial consultation with Dr. Spence in Bozeman, I received my treatment from the wonderful staff at the Missoula Joint Repair Clinic. Libby administers the injections, and Abby is the receptionist. Both ladies were positive, helpful, and very reassuring. I received HUCT injections in both sides of my neck, both sides of my back, both knees, both shoulders, and in an arthritic knuckle on my right hand. Then, a month later, I received Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. I was also given a customized nutritional program to help speed up the recovery process.

In less than three months, I was able to resume all of my former activities. My knees and the knuckle on my right hand had no swelling or inflammation. It was like a miracle! I was able to enjoy life again, taking long walks, bicycle riding, riding motorcycles, riding Rudy’s mules through the mountains, and snowmobiling. The choice to not seek surgery and the opportunity to share my healing journey with others in just a year’s time is quite rewarding and promising for more improvement. My back and neck are also loving the injections that are doing their amazing job.

My husband, Rudy, has recently received the HUCT injections in his right ankle due to injuries resulting from his many years of motocross racing and snowmobiling. He was so impres­sed with my progress in such a short time and added that the Joint Repair treatments have been “a great investment.”

Now we can enjoy many more awesome adventures riding the trails through the Bitterroots. I thank God every day that I am here with Him in the presence of so many good people. I owe all the praise to Dr. Spence and his staff at the Joint Repair Clinic, and everyone who has studied the fascinating results of HUCT injections. It has given me a better life at 64 years of age. Choosing this non-surgical way to make our joints happy and healthy has been the best decision for Rudy and I both. It may be the best decision for you as well if you have suffered injuries or have experienced stiff, painful joints.

“Sometimes what looks like an obstacle from an injury is actually a gift meant to move you in a different direction.” That is exactly what the injections have done for my husband Rudy and I. As Dr. Spence says, “Motion is lotion… Keep a-moving!”

“I have known Nori for over three years, enjoying many walks and fun times. During the first two years, she was constantly troubled by the pain in her knees, shoulder, and knuckles, causing our walks to be slow and short. Some days, she would show me the inflammation in her knees and finger joints that were causing her so much debilitating pain. Her bubbly personality was worn by the constant struggle with the discomfort and pain.

She told me she had chosen HUCT injections instead of surgery. What an amazing choice! Her giddy-up returned and her gait was at full stride. The inflammation in her knuckles, knees, and back had significantly subsided. Along with the dramatic physical mobility changes, it was wonderful to see the pain subside from her face and body in just a few months.”

—Sincerely, Tacy Fleener

The Joint Repair Clinic of Montana (with locations in Bozeman, Billings, Missoula, and Helena) has been helping many Montanans attain great results from arthritis, joint pain, and peripheral neuropathy. The professional staff uses measurable, scientific testing, and x-rays to understand what is going on with your joints to help determine what may be the source of your pain. They can help you learn about the natural options that may be available for you and offer personalized-care programs to help your body naturally. They utilize the tissue from donated umbilical cords from live-birth, healthy moms and healthy babies, which helps the cushioning in your joints.

Care packages can include Human Umbilical Cord Tissue (HUCT) allograft injections, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), chiropractic, home-exercise coaching, nutritional supplements and dietary guidelines. Some locations offer additional, non-surgical, pain-management options, including various ozone and sound and light therapies.

Call (406) 551-1787 today and mention this article to receive the discounted $49 consultation. Visit: www.jointrepairmt.com for more information.

2024-03-04T06:54:02-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Gratitude for Our Senses: VISION

“How Can We Thank Our Visual Powers Enough?”

Arnie Shapiro, MD
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

We have five major senses: vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. They are all quite complex, versatile and marvelous. Our life experience is majorly associated with them. They serve us daily throughout our lives. Although all our senses are important, most people think vision is the one most difficult to live without.

As is the case with all other animals, vision is a crucial factor in survival. Our visual system is a triumph of Nature and DNA. Complex, image-forming eyes developed early in animal evolution. Vision helps animals navigate their environment, tell day from night, find food, peers and mates, and avoid predators and dangers.

Here, let’s discuss vision from the standpoint of gratitude. How can we thank our visual powers enough? It is estimated that 40% of our brain capacity is involved with vision, and 80% of the information we receive is through our eyes. That’s major!

How do our eyes work? Light energy in the form of photons enters through our clear, front corneas. Then it enters through our pupils and gets focused by a lens onto a back screen, the retina. The retinae are actually outgrowths of the brain. They are highly innervated, with specialized cells called rods and cones. Rods are most concentrated on the sides of the cornea, and respond to low levels of light. Cones are concentrated in the center of the retina and are sensitive to colors. As in photography and television, color is a mixture of red, blue, and yellow components. The retinal neurons have photosensitive neurotransmitters called opsins.

Opsins convert color input to electrical output. The optic nerve delivers this output to the visual cortex, which makes sense of the signals with the speed and power of a supercomputer!

Gratitude comes from realizing how much we rely on vision all through our waking hours, and how difficult our lives would be without it. Vision allows us to take in our surroundings, including hazards to avoid, as well as information to take in, and beauty to admire.

How can we best take care of our visual system? Protecting our overall health can go a long way to keeping our eyes healthy. Eat a balanced diet. Be physically active. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses on bright days.

Good nighttime sleep is important. If you spend a lot of time using a computer—who doesn’t nowadays?—consider using amber-colored, blue-blocker glasses. Also, use the 20:20:20 rule—every 20 minutes, look 20 or more feet away, for at least 20 seconds. You could also close your eyes for 20 or more seconds, and imagine a peaceful scene. While doing so, you can form a Mona Lisa smile and breathe slowly and smoothly.

Finally, it is advisable to get an annual exam from an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist. I hope we see eye-to-eye!

— Namaste!

Dr. Shapiro is a career clinic physician who has utilized relaxation techniques with many of his patients. His YouTube channel is: “Arnie Shapiro, MD • Breathing Easy.” Email Dr. Shapiro at: alloydshapiro@gmail.com.

2024-02-29T09:29:29-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Skunk Cabbage—Who Would’ve Thunk?

The Next Big Thing in Natural Medicine?

Crystal Maceira, CBP, LMT, MH
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

Skunk Cabbage, Symplocarpus foetidus, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It has large, spatula-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12-inches long. This herb, which grows in wetlands and swamps, has recently gained attention from science due to its potential health benefits. It’s a unique plant that serves several important functions in its ecosystem.

One of its most fascinating abilities is thermogenesis, which allows it to generate heat and melt through snow, enabling it to bloom early in the spring when few other plants are active. This early blooming period attracts insects for pollination, as well as providing a food source for animals emerging from hibernation.

Additionally, skunk cabbage plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil enrichment. The plant absorbs nutrients from the soil, particularly calcium, which helps to reduce the acidity of the surrounding area. As the plant decays, it releases these nutrients back into the soil, enriching it and supporting the growth of other plant species. Skunk cabbage’s large leaves also provide shelter for small animals and create a microhabitat that supports a diverse range of organisms in wetlands.

Skunk cabbage gets its name from the unpleasant odor it emits when its leaves are bruised or crushed. Its flowers are pollinated by flies and bees, which are attracted to their strong scent. Despite its pungent smell, Skunk Cabbage has been used as a traditional remedy for various ailments such as coughs, colds, fevers, and more.

How Does Skunk Cabbage Work?
It contains several compounds that have been shown to possess medicinal properties. One of these compounds is called symplocin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Other compounds found in Skunk Cabbage include saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, all of which have various health benefits.

The exact mechanism of action for Skunk Cabbage is not fully understood, but re-search suggests that it may work by modulating the immune system. Studies have shown that its extracts can stimulate the production of cytokines, which are proteins that play a crucial role in regulating the immune response. Additionally, Skunk Cabbage may also have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Uses for Skunk Cabbage
Skunk Cabbage, native to North America, has been used by indigenous peoples for respiratory infections, digestive problems, skin conditions, and most notably, as an expectorant. It helps to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract, relieving conditions such as: bronchitis, asthma, and the common cold.

Skunk cabbage has also been used topically to help alleviate pain and inflammation. These analgesic properties make it potentially useful for conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness. Furthermore, it has been shown to have antimicrobial and antispasmodic effects.

More recently, scientists have studied the potential of Skunk Cabbage in preventing and treating chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Some studies suggest it may also have neuroprotective effects, helping to protect against brain damage caused by stroke or other neurological disorders. It’s important to note, however, that while skunk cabbage has a long history of traditional medicinal usage, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and potential side effects.

In conclusion, Skunk Cabbage is an intriguing plant with many potential health benefits. There is growing evidence that this humble herb could be the next big thing in natural medicine. From its potential to boost the immune system to its anti-cancer properties, and even more, Skunk Cabbage deserves closer scrutiny by both scientists and consumers alike. As with any herbal remedy, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using skunk cabbage for medicinal purposes.

Good Health to You! —Crystal

Here at Positive Life Change, we prepare a high-quality tincture of Skunk Cabbage for your use. Mention this article for 20% off when you go to: PositiveLifeChange.info.

Crystal Maceira is a Certified Bowenwork Practitioner, practicing in Helena. She has been a massage therapist for 23+ years. She is also a Master Herbalist and certified IIPA Iridologist. She prepares her own single and formula-blend herbal tinctures. Find out more by visiting PositiveLifeChange.info. Call Crystal at 406-616-2599. Email: crystalclearhealth@gmail.com.

2024-02-29T10:07:08-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

How I Became a Holistic Fertility Expert

Improving Your Success for Conception, Pregnancy & Birth

Tara Angeles, RN, BSN, INHC, Founder of The Fertility Academy, PLLC
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

There are three main factors that have led me to where I am today:

  1. My youngest brother being born with a near fatal disease
  2. My experiences as an IVF nurse at a top US fertility clinic
  3. My own pregnancy complications with my first pregnancy

Let’s start at the beginning. When I was ten years old, my baby brother Ray was born with a rare disease caused by black mold exposure in a house my family briefly lived in. He developed rashes all over his body and started to lose weight, but his pediatrician dismissed his symptoms as being from the winter cold.

Eventually, my mother took him to a larger hospital, where a doctor recognized his symptoms and saved his life. After his discharge, nurses would visit our home several times a week to check on him. Witnessing their care and compassion inspired me to become a nurse.

After completing nursing school, I wanted to work in the field of fertility and started my nursing career as an IVF nurse. Patients frequently asked me. “What can I do to improve my chances of conceiving?” This question sparked a new journey for me. I realized there was a huge lack of knowledge and support for couples seeking care while trying to conceive. I started to delve into the research on how to improve fertility naturally.

The third part of my story now comes in as I got pregnant with my first baby. I experienced hyperemesis gravidarum, a complication characterized by severe nausea and vomiting. This lasted for half my pregnancy, and I lost a lot of weight. Halfway through my pregnancy, I finally started gaining weight back, but I had a lot of questions.

I asked the doctors and midwives I was working with lots of questions, but never felt satisfied with their answers: “It’s common to experience these symptoms. Just keep trying to lead a healthy lifestyle.” What exactly did that mean? Why did this happen to me when I thought I had already been following the recommended dietary guidelines for pregnancy and following a healthy lifestyle? Was there anything I could do to prevent this from happening again?

I began expanding my research into what goes into preparing for a healthy pregnancy. Towards the end of my pregnancy, I developed pre-eclampsia, another pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure and can lead to organ damage, stroke, and both maternal and/or fetal death if not treated quickly. Fortunately, after an emergency C-section, both my baby and I survived, but this was the final experience that inspired me to pivot in my career. I wanted to learn everything there was to know about how to help couples heal their fertility naturally and to prepare for the healthiest pregnancy and baby they could.

I decided to go back to school and became an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, specializing in holistic fertility and hormone health. I had the privilege of learning from many exceptional doctors. What I discovered and learned was incredible and mind-blowing. The body has the incredible innate ability to heal itself with the right support and tools. Even the expression of our genes can be influenced for the better by our behavior and environment. Those changes can then impact the ability to successfully conceive, have a healthy pregnancy, and make “super-babies” (babies that are very healthy due to the preconception healing and healthy lifestyles implemented by their parents before conception).

As I studied, I started to incorporate everything I was learning into my own life. And what happened next was amazing. My husband and I conceived again with our second child on our first try, I did not have hyper emesis gravidarum, and did not get pre-eclampsia with my second child, even though my doctor told me I would likely get it in every pregnancy after my first one.

So, at this point in my career, I committed myself to compiling and sharing this empowering information with couples trying to conceive. Two years ago, I founded The Fertility Academy and have since had the honor of helping numerous couples fulfill their dream of becoming parents. It is one of the most amazing careers to be in and I am so honored to be able to help couples in this role.

Most fertility data coming out today points to a sharp rise in infertility problems involving both men and women, due to a host of different factors and complications. If you are a couple wishing to conceive and have children, together we will take a close look at all the factors affecting your chances of conception. We will find holistic, natural ways to dramatically improve the likelihood of success at every point of your conception, pregnancy and birth. Contact Tara and let’s get you on the road to bringing a happy, healthy baby into your world!

Tara Angeles is a former IVF nurse turned Holistic Fertility Expert. In 2022, she founded The Fertility Academy, a holistic fertility practice devoted to helping couples transform and heal their fertility, so that they can conceive naturally, or dramatically improve success with IVF. Tara not only helps couples to optimize their fertility, but also prepare for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

For more information, visit: TheFertilityAcademy.com.

2024-02-29T10:01:22-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Physio-Energy Therapy (PET)

Can PET Increase Your Quality of Life?

Janet Burke & James Tree-Gilmore
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

A condition or disease is not just physical but is multidimensional according to modern quantum physics. Many health practitioners are now recognizing the benefits of addressing human conditions and ailments from that multi-dimensional approach. The body manifests symptoms that may be based in, not just this 3-D world, but also incorporate aspects from the mental, emotional, soul, or spiritual realms as well. With Physio-Energy Therapy, we use tools of the physical, spiritual, emotional and quantum dimensional realms to address conditions and the person in their entirety, thus resulting in a more complete and lasting improvement, compared to more conventional techniques. PET has been practiced for over eight years in Montana.

As an example, in one of our early weekend PET clinics, a first-time client was suffering for over 20 years from an advanced case of Multiple Sclerosis. As she entered our office, we noticed she was dragging one leg behind her. Other symptoms included some slurred speech and trouble with writing due to the shaking in her hands. Understanding that connections have been found between old neck injuries and some autoimmune problems, we addressed her old neck injury first, applying the various methods that make up PET.

She had noticeable results as she walked out of the office with her legs straight and equal in length, her speech normal, and her hands no longer shaking. When she returned to work that day, the results were quite evident to her co-workers who commented on her immediate changes.

Where PET Is Effective
PET has proven effective for addressing the symptoms of: restricted movement from injuries, back and neck pain, sciatica, Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, headaches, TMJ, sports injuries, and the side effects of cancer treatments. To see a list of symptoms that have been relieved through PET, see the first-hand testimonials HERE.

What Is Physio-Energy Therapy (PET)
PET is a combination of energy medicines and osteopathic-based techniques that address the health of the whole human.

Janet Burke and James Tree-Gilmore have effectively blended together several different healing modalities and techniques to create Physio-Energy Therapy (PET). Both have extensive experience as therapists and bring a lively and fun experience to their sessions.

Blending these therapies during a session provides for a multi-dimensional approach, with the benefits of addressing the whole physical, mental, and energetic aspects of health for clients. The best results come from two therapists working together in universal harmony on the client.

How Does PET Work?
During a PET session, our initial goal is to bring the client into a state of deep, neurological peace and stillness. When this is accomplished, the brain starts to release the building blocks for the regeneration of every aspect of the client’s body, mind and spirit, thereby setting up the interdimensional healing that is needed for the body to recover.

With that in place, the rest of the session involves the application of our nonmanipulative and non-invasive, complementary approach to the client’s whole being.

The History of PET
In 2016, Janet and James (a Cherokee) met at a Sacred Pipe ceremony that James was performing at. A spiritual bond formed, and as they were both alternative-healthcare practitioners, they began practicing their combined healing techniques together. They discovered that by blending their healing modalities on one client at the same time, the effectiveness of the results was magnified greatly. This led them to creating PET. They formed The Whole Health School of Holistic Therapies in 2018.

Twice a month James joins with Janet at one of their two offices in either Hamilton or Anaconda, Montana, to provide effective relief to many health challenges for living a better quality of life. They are currently offering workshops and classes in various cities around the world, as well as in their Montana headquarters. Weekend seminars, weeklong healing intensives, and ongoing development of emerging therapies is their emphasis.

For an appointment or more information, send an email to: pet.wholehealthschool@gmail.com

2024-02-29T09:06:53-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Unlocking the Mysteries of Frankincense:

Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science

Maria Low
Mar – Apr 2024 • Vol 4, No 9

Several varieties of frankincense have been known for their mystical and healing qualities for over 5,000 years. These amazing trees grow in the most difficult conditions—relentless wind, scorching heat, and lack of moisture. They are often seen growing by themselves in the desert. The harsh growing conditions of this haggard tree may hold the secrets of its powerful offerings in precious resin.

Finding Medicinal Frankincense
There are approximately 200 species of frankincense. Each possesses distinct chemical constituents. Gary Young, founder of Young Living Essential Oils, made over eighteen trips to Arabia and Somalia to study frankincense and myrrh. Through scientific testing, he discovered that the rare Sacra Frankincense and the Boswellia Carterii species had the strongest medicinal properties. As a result, Gary distilled these two species at the Young Living distillers in the Middle Eastern country of Oman.

Creating Frankincense Essential Oil
Harvesting frankincense resin is a laborious process. First, the bark is cut just enough to allow drops of liquid resin to exude. The resin sits on the bark from two to four weeks. This process is repeated about four times. Finally, the small clump of resin is cut off, and chips of this resin are

distilled in a stainless-steel vat at specific temperatures. The result is the most sought-after aromatic in existence.

Fascinating History of Frankincense
The famous Frankincense Trail went from Jerusalem to the Far East. People traveled in camel caravans, sometimes up to 5,000 people traveling together. This afforded them protection against thieves. Along the trail was an area once called the Hidden City, now known as Petra. The area is one of the wonders of the world. Due to an earthquake, this mountainous area broke apart.

The Sandstone City
The result of this break-up was a passageway to an area where the mountain was made of sandstone and subsequently, buildings were carved into the sandstone. The guards in the city would see caravans coming and would invite them in for rest and trade. They charged a toll for passage, as well as a fee for the storage of essential oils, spices, gold, cloth, and other commodities. Petra became known as a flourishing outpost for trade, including frankincense.

Frankincense and Ancient Royalty
In bygone days, essential oils were used by pharaohs and kings alike. Resin from the frankincense tree was also used as a smudge to discourage insects, and for purification of a room or building. The Queen of Sheba brought essential oils to King Solomon. Furthermore, he received species of plants from the Queen and grew his own aromatic plants. Another famous figure, Cleopatra, was very involved with essential oils as part of her lifestyle. In fact, she managed farms where she distilled and sold essential oils.

Why Use Frankincense?
The science behind frankincense oil is now becoming more available. Today, frankincense essential oil is showing up in cosmetics and supplements. Reasons to use frankincense include:

  • To fight against unfriendly microbes
  • To balance bodily functions
  • As an antioxidant to purify your system
  • As a reliever of emotional “baggage”
  • To uplift your spiritual awareness

The Frequency of Frankincense
All essential oils have a frequency that can be scientifically measured. Each species of plant has its own pitch or harmonic overtones. Frankincense has one of the higher oil frequencies and this is one of the reasons why it is used for anointing and for emotional support. The Greek word for anointing meant to “cover.” In some cases, the word could be used to mean “pour over the head.” Frankincense oil was also used as a rub. It was often mixed with carrier oil such as olive oil. The anointing process was used to “raise up” the person and to free them from dark energy.

How to Use Frankincense
Young Living has its own scientific library and state-of-the-art scientific instruments. Young Living Members around the world feel fortunate to have our own farms to control each step and to provide the very best precious oil. Here are some of the ways that frankincense can be used:

  • A drop of the essential oil can be put in a glass of water and used as a beverage.
  • The resin can sit in a glass overnight covered in water. Drink first thing in the morning.
  • Frankincense can be diffused to clear your environment.
  • Frankincense can be used in massage as a single oil or blended with other oils.

Young Living Membership
When you become a Young Living member, you can purchase all Young Living products at a discounted price. You can also qualify for free Young Living products. Additionally, you’ll receive free education and a supportive team to help you build your business, if you so desire. Become a member and enjoy a whole new world featuring a healthy lifestyle!

Learn more from Young Living members who make essential oils a part of their lifestyle:

Maria Low, Member #10279, yleo.aspirations@gmail.com
Kathleen Karlsen, Member #1043288, kathleenkarlsen@msn.com
Kasondra Grillo, Member #29010370, kasondra95@gmail.com

References:
Essential Oils Desk Reference
The Chemistry of Essential Oils by David Stewart
Healing Oils of the Bible by David Stewart

2024-02-29T09:04:34-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Bowenwork for Kids

Light-Touch, Non-Invasive Bodywork Resets the Autonomic Nervous System

Crystal Maceira, CBP, LMT, MH
Jan – Feb 2024 • Vol 4, No 8

Bowenwork is a light-touch, non-invasive form of bodywork that initiates the body’s innate ability to reset the autonomic nervous system from “fight-and-flight” to “rest-digest-and-heal” by performing subtle moves along muscles and tendons. It truly needs to be experienced to know just how profound this bodywork can be.

I have been a Bowenwork practitioner for almost seven years. It has given me great pleasure to see the healing process in those I have worked on.

I have become so passionate about it, that I became an Associate instructor so that I can teach a 4-hour class on the basics of Bowenwork. And, I am on my way to becoming an Instructor so I can teach others to become Practitioners.

As an Instructor-in-Training now, I can teach the Modules, but my instructor is responsible for what and how I teach. My journey through that process will hopefully be completed by the end of April of next year. In this article, I would like to let you know of experiences I have had treating children with Bowenwork.

The whole family that lives next door comes to get Bowenwork. The mom was the first to start getting worked on in 2018, when “models” were needed for students to work on. I also need to practice on people to get my log hours for the advanced procedures training. The family really started coming over as the kids got older to be models and whenever they had sniffles or chest congestion. When the youngest was 3 (she is now almost 7), she fell off a ladder go-ing to the loft in their cousins’ newly built log home that is right next door to them, onto the hard wood floor. She wasn’t seriously hurt, but did hit her head hard enough to have a little bleeding from the ear. The doctor had her wear a helmet for awhile. I asked mom if it would be ok to use Bowenwork on her. She said yes. At this point, she really didn’t understand what it could do. I went to their home and while the kids were watching TV, I did a few moves with the little one in my lap. I came back once a week for three weeks and did some more moves on her. I did baby Bowen, Upper Resp/TMJ, and Head during those sessions.

The doctor was very impressed with her healing, as was her mother. From then on, she started coming over more often and also sends her kids over when they have the sniffles or other minor congestion issues. They also love being “models” and the students love working on them. During this last hunting season, both kids went with papa hunting. (They are now 9 and 6.) They walked over 7 miles! The next day, they told mama, “We are so sore and achy, can we go see Crystal for a massage?” They came over at the same time.

I gave them a Bowenwork session, since that CAN be done at the same time! They loved it. Whenever the mom or the kids have runny noses or congestion, they are on my table getting a Bowenwork session.

Recently, I made a special trip to help my grandson. He was born sepsis due to my daughter having preeclampsia. At 22 months, he had not eaten any solid food. He would try, but would spit it out, or throw it back up within a minute or two. It took her months to get him tested to find out what the problem was. The doctors diagnosed him with Eosinophilic esophagitis. It is Type II inflammation. The only thing they could do for him was to give him drugs. My daughter did not want to do go that route.

A few days later, my husband and I were at our Bible Study group. The homeowner where we attend said the Lord told him that the baby needed “this Bowenwork” and proceeded to tell the group the exact moves I would do for Baby Bowen! He had never received a Bowen-work treatment. He also said it wasn’t the esophagus that was causing the issue.

It was a nerve problem. I didn’t quite catch that at first, but then it was like a lightbulb going off in my head. The nerve issue he was talking about was the vagus nerve! (The vagus nerve is the longest and most important part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your heart rate, digestion, mood, and more.)

I reached Oregon late afternoon, so I looked for an opportunity the next day to work on my grandson. The first time I tried to work on him, he was running around. I thought he would sit on the couch long enough for me to perform the Baby Bowen moves, but he eluded me.

A little later, he was sitting in his chair attached to the table watching TV. Mom had put some food in front of him and some water to drink. He wasn’t touching the food. I started performing the Baby Bowen moves on him. At first, he moved his body away from me, but I continued and was able to finish with the Respiratory supine move. Within a minute after I was done, he picked up a chicken nugget and started eating it as he was watching TV. He ended up eating 2 and a half nuggets! Mom and I were watching closely to see if he would throw it back up, but nope, he didn’t! During my stay there, I held an Intro class, so I could teach the basics to my daughter and the “little bit extra” needed to continue to help my little grandson. She has had to do it several times, but now he eats most of the time.

The third child that I was able to help was also recent. I held another Intro class after I returned from Oregon. A student there asked if there was a procedure that could possibly help her 3-year-old son. He was diagnosed with Hydronephrosis, which is a condition where one or both kidneys become stretched and swollen as the result of a build-up of urine inside them. They were preparing him to have surgery on at least one kidney within a few weeks. I said I could certainly try! So, she brought him over within the week. I did the prone Baby Bowen moves, UB 9-16 and the kidney procedure. I barely had any waits, but did let him rest on the table for at least a minute, if not two. They weren’t there very long. I was biting at the bit to hear how he responded. It took her week to email me back, but this is what she wrote:

“I wanted to thank you for giving our son a treatment and give you an update on how he responded. So, the night of his treatment he urinated before bed and within about a half hour of falling asleep he wet the bed. He was in such a deep sleep that he didn’t even wake up when we changed him and the bedding. So, my husband and I took that as a positive response to your treatment and that maybe his kidneys and urinary system relaxed and drained. The next day he seemed to urinate more frequently than he would typically. With the improvement of his ultrasound last Monday and his response to your treatment, we decided to postpone his surgery for a while and see if he continues to have improvement in his Hydronephrosis. That being said, if you feel he should have another Bowen treatment we are willing to try any natural therapies or avenues to help his body heal. Again, thank you so much for your time and appreciate your knowledge.”

We did do one more treatment 10 days later.

An article in Bowen Hands (Mar. 2014, pp. 16–19), by Charlotte Meerman, talks about how Bowenwork can benefit children who wet the bed. This can be found on the American Bowen Academy website (see below).

I am thrilled that I was able to be a part of the healing process of these children! I pray that the opportunity will come along again. In the meantime, I continue to teach those that want to learn just the basics or learn to become a practitioner themselves. Go to AmericanBowen.academy to find out when the next class will be. Most of the time they are held in Helena, but if enough people (4–6) are interested in another area in Montana, I am happy to accommodate!

Good Health to You in the New Year!

—Crystal

Crystal Maceira is a Certified Bowenwork Practitioner, practicing in Helena. She has been a massage therapist for 23+ years. She is also a Master Herbalist and certified IIPA Iridologist. She prepares her own single and formula-blend herbal tinctures. Find out more by visiting PositiveLifeChange.info. Call Crystal at 406-616-2599. Email: crystalclearhealth@gmail.com.

2023-12-27T13:30:01-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|

Olive Leaf Extract

Nature’s Secret for Vibrant Health and Long Life

Marlenea La Shomb, N.D., P.Tr.
Jan – Feb 2024 • Vol 4, No 8

After the flood of Noah had subsided, what did the dove bring to the ark as a sign from God? From Genesis 8:11— “And the dove came in to him in the evening; and lo, in her mouth, was an olive leaf plucked off. So, he knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.”

Scripture has far more to say about the olive, its fruit, oil, wood, and leaves, than any other herb or tree. Olive oil was part of the special ointment used to anoint priests and kings. Solomon crafted the two cherubim who were to guard the Ark of the Covenant in the Temple’s Holiest place from olive wood.

Christ often retreated to the Mount of Olives with his disciples to teach and pray. Some think that the very olive trees under which he prayed are still alive and healthy today. In fact, the name of the Garden of Gethsemane comes from the Hebrew Gatshamanim, which literally translates as “oil press.”

Early Judeo-Christian legend holds that Adam, on his deathbed, asked for the oil of mercy, which the Lord had given him for his own and all people’s redemption. He sent his son Seth to the angel that guarded the Garden of Eden. The angel gave Seth three seeds from the tree of knowledge, out of which grew a cedar, cypress, and olive tree. The Jews declared the miracle of Hanukkah because their eternal flame flickered for eight days on empty. Their fuel was olive oil.

It was a capital offense in Greece to kill or cut down an olive tree. Also, at one time in Greece, only virgins or chaste young men were allowed to harvest from the trees.

Throughout early ages, tea made from olive leaves has been a popular folk remedy for combatting fevers. From as early as 1827, medical reports state that a tea made from olive leaves helped the worst cases of malaria. It was found to be far superior to quinine, the recommended treatment of the time.

Today, the health benefits of olive oil and tinctures and extracts made from its leaves continue to be extolled by both herbalists and medical science alike. Early in this century, the bitter compound was isolated from the olive leaf. This phytochemical, called oleuropein, provides the olive tree with vast disease-resistant properties. It is credited with the olive tree’s ability to live for thousands of years. It protects the tree against nearly every disease.

While olive leaf extract isn’t a cure-all, it may help with your goals for weight loss, improved health, and boosted immunity. It is a significant natural source of wellness with therapeutic properties that include:

  • Gastroprotective (protects digestive system)
  • Neuroprotective (protects central nervous system)
  • Antimicrobial (inhibits microorganism growth)
  • Anticancer (reduces risk of cancer)
  • Anti-inflammatory (reduces risk of inflammation)
  • Antinociceptive (reduces pain stimuli)
  • Antioxidant (prevents oxidation or cell damage)

Olive leaf extract may help with heart health, and herpes breakouts, and much more. You can get olive leaves and make your own tea. The tincture and extracts can be found at your local health food store.

Send inquiries to Dr. Marlenea La Shomb by email to jumpstartyourhealth@gmail.com. Marlenea passionately works as a health coach and writer for all who are ready to find harmony and balance in body, mind, and soul through natural therapies and education.

2023-12-27T13:30:02-07:00Natural Therapies/Remedies|
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