Health Stress and Anxiety

Posts Tagged ‘wellness’

Reaching Back in Time

Aromatherapy always conjured up for me simple ideas of nice smelling things to relax you. I truly had little interest in those racks of little bottles in the health food store. But some friends of mine encouraged me to have a look at the science as to essential oils being healing medicines. Never in all my schooling were the volatile components of plants mentioned, or if they were, it was cursory, within a look at plant physiology. Now I’ve been through a series of science-based aromatherapy books and research papers, and here’s my discovery of aroma-medicine, something practitioners using aromatic oils have known all along.

So Much More Than Just Aroma

I have been using natural and alternative wellness treatments for my health for years, yet I had only associated aromatherapy with getting a massage or putting lavender on my pillow for a better night’s sleep. Unbeknownst to me, aromatherapy has been used for centuries and currently used in medical facilities in France. Now, with a rising interest and even demand for alternative and complementary medicine (CAM), research is being conducted on the benefits of aromatherapy for infections, psyche, nerves, hormones and to some extent inflammation, allergies and metabolic conditions.

Aromatherapy is Aroma-Medicine

Contrary to my own vague association, aromatherapy is more than smelling certain scents. Jane Buckle, RN, Ph.D. concludes that there are four main types of aromatherapy: clinical, stress management, beauty therapy and environmental fragrancing. I think many of us have an association of aromatherapy when it comes to beauty therapy and good smelling fragrances from the aroma of essential oils, yet the clinical and stress management aspects of aromatherapy have been hidden from view.

Still, to wrap my science-slanted mind around what truly is aromatherapy, I needed to get more of a workable definition. The gist of the meaning of aromatherapy is that it is therapeutic uses of essential oils of aromatic plants. These oils, usually extracted from plants using water or steam distillation, are mainly used in diffusers as well as topically. Once the aromatic essential oils are extracted, the oils are quite volatile. When the oils are exposed to air, they change from a potent liquid into an aromatic vapor within seconds.

In Advanced Aromatherapy, Dr. Schnaubelt explains that the main chemical component of essential oils are terpenes and it higher homologues as well as phenylpropane derivatives. Yet it must be pointed out that the synergy of each oil has it own unique qualities as well as specific chemical components.

Reacquainting with Nature

The affects of this high-tech civilization that we live in are far reaching. Yet, one that is often overlooked or forgotten is the loss of nature – both in our surroundings and in personal knowledge and interaction. In this modern age, it seems that humans have separated mind from body and body from soul. Aromatherapy simply is nature in a bottle.

Probing into my biology textbook, I read about plant defenses in a whole new light. Plants produce chemical compounds, mostly terpenoid compounds, in order to defend themselves against predators such as insects and animal herbivores as well as against fungai and other microbes. These terpenoid compounds also are used in plant to plant competition, where established plants inhibit germination of other plants. And of course plants use scent in attracting beneficial insect and bat pollinators. Thus, it is evident that the role of essential oils is vital to the continual establishment and growth of plants.

Creatures and Aroma

Remembering my general observation of various animals, I wonder now why the usage and medicinal properties of plants is so unfamiliar in our culture. I have known for years that horses select various plants to facilitate detoxing of metabolic toxic buildup, as well as select certain plants for antiviral and antiparasitic uses. I remember in learning in one of my graduate classes about Chimpanzees eating certain plants to cleanse their accumulation of internal parasites.

And, I know from my graduate work in entomology that insects have fairly well developed chemoreception and some are attracted to plants by their scents. It tugs at my reasoning why plants and their essential oils are not more widely used in everyday life, but as I have pointed out above that is now changing. In part two of this paper, I will dive into the physiological aspects of how aromatherapy is absorbed into the human body and the current research on clinical and stress management uses.

The team at Ananda has designed an essential oils ‘use chart’ for your convenience. Enjoy high vibe learning.

What causes fear? Why does fear seem to cause some people to react irrationally while others go on without too many issues? What causes fear to paralyze a person from living their lives? Some people will focus on the fear, which lead to more problems. What are these problems ? For one thing it can lead to Panic Attacks and Anxiety Attacks. This is when a person will need to seek outside treatment such as a therapist to overcome what causes them fear.

If regular therapy does not seem to help a person suffering from fear then a therapist might prescribe medication to supplement the treatment into what causes fear. However, any prescribed medication should be taken for a short amount of time; at least until a person can deal with the problems that causes them fear and grief. The result, of course, is that people suffering form anxiety and panic attacks will combine medication with various other techniques in the hop they can eventually get off the medication.

What Causes Fear – Five Main Causes of Fear

Fear 1 – Common Social Situations

Many people have a problem dealing with social situations. For one thing they may not enjoy being around other people. Some people try to keep people away, both physically and emotionally, due to childhood social memories or even later trauma that effected their belief in others.

Fear 2 – Social Situations In Particular Circumstances

Fear can often be based on specific situations. In some cases people are simply frozen in place when they are asked to talk in front of an audience. This fear of public speaking usually comes from a bad experience.

Fear 3 – Closeness to Certain Animals

Animals are a major factor behind what causes fear for some folks. For example a man might not like being near dogs because he was bitten as a child. Man and Woman who had not grown up around dogs might also develop a strong fear of the animals.

Fear 4 – Insects like Arachnids

There are many other things people are afraid of then mammals. Many people are afraid of creatures that are a lot smaller and have a lot more legs. The spider is actually the most often feared creature with more than two legs. Spiders tend to show up where you least expect them. Another insect that causes irrational fear is the fear of cockroaches. These bugs, like spiders, can fit into small areas and surprise a person.

Fear 5 – Being in an Enclosed Environment

Many people fear being in enclosed spaces. What causes fear such as this? This is usually due to an experience of being closed in an area for a significant length of time such as staying in a tornado shelter or closet during a tornado warning. Childhood punishments, like being locked in small closets and pantry’s can often lead to a fear of enclosed spaces. A fear of enclosed spaces has also been caused by getting trapped in an elevator when the power fails for a long time.

We can see very clearly that fear is caused by a lot of reasons and while many people share the same causes, there are a great many people suffering the same symptoms for different causes. While such debilitating fear can affect a person everyday life, with time and help, it is possible to overcome what causes fear and panic.

For more information on What causes fear, Anxiety, Panic Attacks and related mood disorder issues visit Anxiety Panic Resources – get our free Downloadable 40-Part Video and MP3 Audio Mini Course. Grab a totally unique version of this article from the Uber Article Directory

Panic Away – Testimonial

Suffering from Anxiety was a struggle that affected the quality of my daily life but all anyone could offer me was medication. In the modern age a lot of us are beginning to worry over the downsides of medication and we will of course always prefer being cured instead of treated. A number of more natural techniques are becoming popular because other people have the same concerns as myself.

One digitally available product that seemed to be getting a lot of good feedback was Panic Away. So I decided to try it and see if it was as good as the hundreds of testimonials on the web site said it was.

This system was invented by another person who had suffered for panic attacks, Joe Barry. He invented this technique to cure panic attacks because he was as frustrated with the idea of just being treated with medication for the rest of his life as I had been. Panic Away is the result of his work and, I was happy to find out, it works!

Panic Away has been effective for everyone who has ever tried it, which is something no other product can say.

The ‘One Move Technique’ utilized by Panic Away did not just reduce my panic attacks but eliminated the anxiety I felt on a daily basis. Panic Away did this by attack my fear of panic attacks, which, it turns out, was the cause behind them in the first place.

Panic Away was able to radically restore my self-confidence by helping me to restore my own sense of calm by utilizing modern psychology. Panic Away also deserves credit for not using the time worn techniques of ‘deep breathing,’ or ‘distraction,’ which take a lot of time and rarely provide escape from the condition once and for all.

Positive aspects of Panic Away

It’s all natural.

It is a very simple and easy method to use.

It was much cheaper than going to a doctor.

By challenging my fears of oncoming anxiety Panic Away helped without forcing me to avoid situations or panic attacks triggers.

Panic Away Cons

I did have to invest some time into learning the technique.

Even though I barely no I’m doing it anymore, it does need me to implement the technique at certain times.

Conclusion

While a lot of systems need to be implemented every time you feel anxiety building, Panic Away is a step above the rest because of its focus on breaking the self perpetuating cycle of Anxiety, which was causing my panic attacks. This means that by using Panic Away I was able to reduce my anxiety and the number of panic attacks I was getting while continually moving towards escaping the reason behind my condition.

The fear I had over the number of medications thrust my way for panic attacks is probably troubling a lot of other people today. Panic Away is a vital and very successful alternative to anyone suffering from this fear or anyone suffering from panic attacks.

For more information on Panic Away Reviewed, Anxiety, Panic Attacks and related mood disorder issues visit Anxiety Panic Resources – get our free Downloadable 40-Part Video and MP3 Audio Mini Course. Simply send a blank email to free@anxietypanicresources.com or visit our website to get your own copy right now.

Originally known as zone or reflex therapy, Reflexology is a holistic healing method that assists the healing of the body through the use of therapeutic pressure and massage of the reflex points found on the feet and the hands. There is evidence that the art and science of Reflexology was used by the ancient Egyptians, Japanese, and Indian cultures as a tool to encourage and facilitate excellent health. Modern Reflexology is rooted in research in Europe and Russia dating back over 125 years. Russian physicians of the early 1900′s followed the reflex research of Nobel prize winner Ivan Pavlov to create today’s reflex therapy. Through stimulation of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and by encouraging the release of toxins, Reflexology supports the entire body in healing itself.

Considered an exceptionally effective method for activating the healing powers of the body, modern Reflexology is both a science and a healing art. As a science, Reflexology requires dedicated study, technical knowledge, practice, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology is most effective when the therapist works with intention, dedication, and gentle loving care. Modern Reflexology now generally includes the use of essential oils during the session, as the reflex points are particularly receptive to this potent plant medicine. When skill and care are combined with sound healing practices, Reflexology can help to facilitate healing and encourage overall well-being.

Science teaches that one’s vital energy circulates between the various organs while saturating every living cell and tissue. It has long been known that good health depends on the dynamic balance and natural functioning of all the body systems. This ever-changing state of balance is called homeostasis. In order for the body to function optimally, all systems must act in synergistic harmony. If the energy becomes blocked or congested in one part of the body the whole organism is affected. Through the use of precisely applied techniques and oils, blockages can be released and health can unfold naturally.

There are many benefits of receiving regular Reflexology sessions including the reduction of stress by inducing deep relaxation. During the session, the body and nervous system are allowed to deeply rest and consequently functions in a more balanced state. As a result, the body moves toward homeostasis and healing can take effect. A fantastic study conducted on soldiers in Israel found that reflexology benefited these ‘soldiers (who were) suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, providing temporary relief from symptoms including anger, depression, and muscle tension. The soldiers who received weekly reflexology treatments also experienced improved sleep patterns, levels of concentration, and an overall lift in mood.’ (Reflexology on the Front Lines of Health Care’, Massage Magazine, November/December 1998). Using a few drops of therapeutic grade Lavender essential oil is an excellent choice for decreasing stress and facilitating relaxation. In addition, Frankincense, Roman Chamomile, and Rose essential oil, are all lovely choices for encouraging relaxation. Choosing the best oil and application location is as easy as listening to your ‘inner guide’. Move slowly, while holding the greatest healing intention, allowing yourself to use the most effective oils on the reflex points which are naturally calling for them.

Reflexology can also assist in the cleansing and purification of toxic energy, the revitalization of vigor, and the balance and integration of the natural rhythms of the body. Gravity pulls toxins downward to the feet therefore reflexology is a natural tool for helping to clear this old energy. A skilled reflexologist can pull these impurities from the feet using both proper massage techniques and cleansing, detoxifying essential oils.

Soaking the feet in epsom salts with a few drops of essential oils can help to facilitate the release of old energy – this can be done at the completion of a session, or in between sessions. This is a very healing therapy that is safe for elderly, pregnant, and children. Use one-quarter to one-half cup of epsom salts in warm water. Add in three to four drops of essential oils and relax for half an hour. Foot baths are wonderful for those who have been ill or are exhausted. Aromatherapy baths are generally considered safe as long as the essential oils are properly dispersed throughout the water – the essential oils can be diluted in a carrier oil before pouring into the foot bath. Grapefruit, Geranium, and Juniper are all wonderful essential oils for detoxification, and can be used at the same time as oils for relaxation, such as Lavender, Sandalwood or Ylang Ylang.

Reflexology stimulates and encourages blood flow to the feet thus helping to nourish all the extremities of the body. Studies have shown that Spruce essential oil is an excellent choice for those with poor circulation. Spruce is non-toxic and non-irritating.Ylang Ylang Sweet Marjoram, and Lavender essential oil have been found to reduce blood pressure. Further, Reflexology is an excellent way to revitalize energy. Low energy levels are often due to accumulations of toxins and energy blockages. Once those are released, uplifting essential oils can be used to restore natural vital energy balance. Bergamot oil is excellent for this, and is the foremost ‘natural anti-depressant’ essential oil. Rosemary is also very uplifting and energizing; other oils can be uplifting and calming at the same time; Black Spruce and Pine (Pinus kessia) are particularly suited for this.

Reflexology balances and integrates the body. As energy pathways are opened, strengthened, and brought into balance, the body returns to its natural rhythms. Energy flows. The body, mind, and spirit are brought back into balance. Rose essential oil is a wonderful oil for balancing and integrating the energy pathways of the body. Facilitate this healing by gently anointing your clients/friends feet with Rose and allowing them to bask in the high vibration healing of this beautiful flower. Ylang Ylang essential oil is also lovely for balancing one’s masculine and feminine energies. Note that with all the essential oils, just the smallest amount is necessary to impart their profound healing action; the strength of the aromas should be gentle and pleasant at all times.

As with all natural healing modalities, both the practitioner and the client benefit from the healing process. This active healing extends into into other areas of life, further creating an environment of well-being. Reflexology is an excellent way to assist oneself and one’s client in becoming independently healthy. It is my opinion after having benefited from both receiving and sharing reflexology sessions with many clients, friends, and family that Reflexology is an exceptional natural tool. It is easy to get started, either performing the practice on yourself or with a friend, letting your intuition guide you through this important, loving process.

The author is a frequent user of Blue Tansy essential oil and other natural botanicals for healing.

Birch Polypore, as the name suggests, grows on dead or dying birch trees. It can be found in birch forests around the world.

Birch Polypore’s 15 minutes of fame came when it was discovered among the remains of Oetzi the Iceman, whose 5,300 year old mummified body was found 1991 at the border of Austria and Italy in a glacial ice cave.

It’s generally agreed that Oetzi used the Birch Polypore to treat a parasitic infection. Eggs of the intestinal parasite Trichuris trichuria were found in his gut. [190]

And indeed, Birch Polypore tea has been used historically as a folk remedy against intestinal parasites. It has also been used as a styptic to stop bleeding, and as a general antibiotic. [25]

A finding in 1997 confirmed that certain compounds in Birch Polypore extract help diminish chronic dermal inflammation [191] and being generally anti-inflammatory. [192]

In terms of its antibiotic properties, Birch Polypore extract has been found effective against Bacillus megateterium. [194] One antibiotic compound that has been isolated from Birch Polypore is known as Piptamine. [193] Medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets proposes that Birch Polypore extract be tested for its effectiveness against anthrax Bacillus anthracis. [134]

Another potent compound isolated from Birch Polypore is Betulinic Acid, which is produced by birch trees and then extracted and concentrated by the Birch Polypores. A study on melanoma in 1995 found that Betulinic Acid exhibited toxicity against melanoma cells while having no adverse effect on healthy cells. [195] A later study, in 2002, may have discovered the mechanism behind Betulinic Acid’s cancer toxicity when it found that it inhibits certain enzymes involved in the growth and development of tumors. [196]

In 2001, Betulinic Acid derivatives of Birch Polypore extract demonstrated unique antiviral effects against HIV by blocking HIV reproduction. [197]

In 2004, medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets filed a patent on an extraction method of Birch Polypore after researchers at USAMRIID (U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Disease) and NIH (National Institute of Health) published findings that Stamets’ Birch Polypore extract effectively killed vaccinia and cowpox viruses while not harming human tissue. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.

Dr. Rafael has worked with natural health since Chiropractic College in 1996. His current focus is research and writing about medicinal fungi, working specifically with the MycoMedicinals of Paul Stamets, whose Birch Polypore extract is part of the synergistic blend Paul Stamets Host Defense. For research references to this article, go to the Piptoporus betulinus page.

A 1999 research paper reported Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma tsugae) to have “the strongest antioxidant activity of five species of Ganoderma [Reishi] tested,” a more potent free radical scavenger than Vitamin E. [831] Other published papers have also reported extraordinary antioxidant levels in Hemlock Varnish Shelf. [827, 828, 829, 830]

Growing on Eastern Hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) throughout the Appalachian Mountains, Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma tsugae) is the local variety of Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma spp.) in the eastern parts of the U.S.

Much of the therapeutic benefits are the same as those of the Common Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), which is the oldest used medicinal mushroom in Traditional Chinese Medicine with a 2,000 year history.

Hemlock Varnish Shelf is not limited to the U.S., though, and plenty of Asian research has been conducted specifically on this species of Reishi.

Grown commercially in Taiwan as a medicinal mushroom, Hemlock Varnish Shelf is exported to mainland China, where it is traditionally used to treat autoimmune diseases and asthma, as well as other conditions involving inflammation.

In modern scientific literature, we can only find one study on the use of Hemlock Varnish Shelf in the treatment of an autoimmune disease. A paper published in 2001 stated: “Improved the survival rate of lupus” [800] with the administration of Ganoderma tsugae extract.

In cases of asthma or lung inflammation, there have been three studies confirming the effectiveness of Hemlock Varnish Shelf. It’s been found to “exert anti-inflammatory effects on airway responses” [801] in cases of allergic asthma and broncheoalveolar inflammation. [802, 803]

A unique and increasingly popular use of Hemlock Varnish Shelf is as a form of skin substitute to aid in wound healing. Sold under the name of Sacchachitin, this Ganoderma tsugae-derived skin substitute has been shown in many studies to help speed up skin healing. It’s been reported that “rapid wound healing” occurs when the injured area is covered by Sacchachitin as compared to gauze. [804] A “wound area covered by SACCHACHITIN completely healed by 21 days, while that covered with cotton gauze did not,” states one paper. [805, 806, 807]

Hemlock Varnish Shelf extract has also been tested for its antitumor properties with promising results. [808, 809, 810, 811, 812] In particular lung cancer [813, 814, 815] and breast cancer [816] have responded favorably in scientific research. It was also shown in one study to help prevent cancer metastasis. [817]

Same as with Common Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), the Hemlock Reishi (or Hemlock Varnish Shelf) has also been shown to be a powerful immunomodulator. [817, 818, 819, 820, 821, 822, 823] What that means is that both of these species of Reishi will help adjust the immune system up or down, whichever is needed. They can help strengthen a weak immune system in one person, [824] while helping to calm an overactive immune system in another person, perhaps someone with an autoimmune disease or an inflammatory condition such as allergy, asthma or arthritis. [825]

One study conducted in 2004 found Hemlock Varnish Shelf extract to posses liver protective properties and be anti-fibrotic. [826]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.

Dr. Markho Rafael has worked with natural health since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently specializes in medicinal mushrooms, working specifically with the extracts from Paul Stamets, including reishi synergistic blends such as G5 (Ganoderma Five) and CordyChi Extract. For scientific references to this article, please visit the Ganoderma tsugae page.

The medicinal mushroom Zhu Ling is prevalent in pharmacies throughout China. Available in the form of dried thin slivers, it’s sold as a remedy for urinary tract infections and tumors, and as an antibiotic and diuretic. [300]

Zhu Ling grows under the ground on rotting wood. It stays fresh in wet soils for over a year, which proves that it has a powerful immune system loaded with chemical compounds to fight off microbes.

In confirmation of its use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for urogenital infections, one study showed Zhu Ling having an inhibitory effect on Chlamydia trachomatis. [302]

A series of modern studies have found promising results in the use of Zhu Ling against parasites, treating Hepatitis B and boosting the immune system, [303, 304] as well as in the treatment of certain types of cancer, [305, 306, 307, 308] including leukemia, [310, 311], bladder and liver cancer. [309] It has been reported to be helpful in immune system recovery and preventing cancer recurrence after chemotherapy and radiation. [312] Two papers from 1991 and 1994 reported 68% and 50% reduction rates of cancer recurrence with the use of Zhu Ling after chemo and radiation. [313, 314]

Two parasites that have responded well to treatment with Zhu Ling extract are Plasmodium falciparum (malaria) and Brucella spp. (brucellosis). Lab exposure of the malaria parasite to Zhu Ling extract proved 100% effective. [310] We don’t as of yet have any report from a study on live patients with malaria.

Tests on live subjects with brucellosis have been conducted, showing an improvement in immune system function. [315, 316] Immune system suppression is a characteristic symptom of brucellosis.

As previously mentioned, another of the many uses of Zhu Ling in Traditional Chinese Medicine is for hepatitis B. This use has been affirmed by modern research. [317, 318] A 2001 study reported that although not powerful enough as a standalone treatment of hepatitis B, it was useful in combination with other treatments. [319, 320] Positive results have also been reported in use of Zhu Ling with toxic hepatitis. [321]

A novel use of Zhu Ling besides the traditional Chinese usage is as a powerful anti-inflammatory, as reported by a new study published in 2008. [322]

One contemporary research paper published findings that Zhu Ling helped balance urine output by increasing low urine production and decreasing excessive production. [301]

A non-glamorous but pragmatic use of Zhu Ling Might therefore be to offer it to patients waiting to give a urine sample, to shorten the wait. [300]

In his book Mycelium Running, medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets also lists viruses and respiratory conditions as areas where research has shown Zhu Ling extract to have a beneficial effect. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.

Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.

With a unique flavor alternately described as lobster or shrimp, the gourmet mushroom Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) with its out-of-this-world showy display of cascading ‘teeth’ also possesses singular medicinal properties – stimulating myelin and nerve regeneration [150, 151] – which upon further study may prove beneficial in a whole series of neurological conditions. Paul Stamets suggests the possible usefulness of Hericium erinaceus extract in conditions such as Alzheimer’s, muscular dystrophy, M.S. and dementia. [134]

In the wild, Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) grows on hardwood trees, especially oak, sycamore, maple, walnut and beech. It can be found throughout the temperate areas of the world, from North America and Europe to Japan and China.

The active compounds that have received the most attention for their nerve regenerating properties are named erinacines, a series of low molecular weight molecules that are able to pass through the blood brain barrier – an essential attribute for any medicinal compound expected to be able to effect healing on myelin or nerve tissue. [152, 153, 154]

In Japan, there are two patents on extracts of Hericium erinaceus. The first was filed in the 1990′s for a process of extraction that yields what has been named “Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor.” [150, 151] The second from 2004 is for a water extract of Hericium erinaceus. It is likewise used to stimulate nerve regeneration. [155]

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Hericium erinaceus has historically been prescribed not only for neurological conditions but also for ailments of the digestive tract, in particular for cancers of the digestive organs, such stomach cancer and liver cancer.

Modern studies have affirmed the validity of this traditional application of Hericium erinaceus extract. One paper published in 1985 reported positive findings in the treatment of atrophic gastritis. Another from 1995 concluded that Hericium erinaceus had an ameliorating effect on hepatoma with an increased life expectancy for treated patients. [156]

Finally, a few additional areas where modern research has reported benefits from the use of Hericium erinaceus extract include: Anti-tumoral [159]; stomach cancer [134]; inflammation [134]; immune support [157]; antimicrobial against Aspergillus and Candida. [158]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.

Credit: Thank you to Paul Stamets for source material.

Stress is a well known contributor to the development of disease. And we live in a world full of stress with less and less time to relax. Not a very good combination. Relaxation is the key to a healthy life. It can significantly reduce the stress levels and give our bodies an opportunity to unwind. In this article we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of relaxation.

Learning basic relaxation techniques can hugely help you on both physical and mental level. It decreases the wear and tear that everyday life inflicts. Everyone can and should learn how to relax. It’s a smart thing to do.

What are the physical benefits? If done frequently enough (minimum 3 times a week) in can lower your blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, strengthen your immune system (stress hormones suppress the immune response), release tension from muscles and joints, enhances your metabolism, and greatly reduce the risk of development of a variety of diseases.

What about mental benefits? There are equally many and include less chance of developing depression, anxiety or panic disorders, less anger and frustration, better concentration, greater creativity, increased emotional stability, prevention of more serious psychological disorders, and improved learning ability just to name a few.

In general, regular relaxation can make you a happier, more productive, optimistic, and confident person. It would really be a shame not to utilize its full potential.

There are plenty of choices, if you wish to research this subject further. You could try many relaxation techniques – from Yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, to music, exercise, massage, deep breathing, and visualization.

For starters, you could simply turn of any distractions, like TV, sit comfortably or lie down, and close your eyes. With some meditative music you could be relaxing in no time. Audio guided relaxation is one of the easiest ways to start.

In 1993, Japanese mycologists discovered and began to cultivate a new medicinal mushroom found in the fields northwest of Sao Paolo, Brazil. Best known by its Latin name as Agaricus blazei, it has rapidly become one of the top five most sought after medicinal mushrooms in the world.

The primary focus of research conducted on Agaricus extract has been devoted to its cancer combating potential, in particular in regards to uterocervical [25] and breast cancer.

Agaricus extract contains more beta glucans than any other mushroom species investigated. In addition to the research on Agaricus blazei itself, it may be worthwhile to look into the abundant research that has been done on beta glucans. [25]

Testing on cancer cells in laboratories (in vitro) have yielded mostly negative results, while testing on live subjects (in vivo) has been very positive. This indicates that the medicinal compounds in Agaricus extract work by stimulating the immune system of the patient rather than directly attacking mutated cancer cells. [135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140]

In fact, one Japanese study from 2002 showed that when stimulated by Agaricus extract, macrophages would deliver a two punch knockout to cancer cells. (Macrophages are a type of white blood cells.) Eight hours after taking Agaricus extract, the patient’s macrophages excreted a cancer killing compound known as alpha tumor necrosis factor. Then four hours after that, the same macrophages excreted another compound specifically targeted to finish off the now weakened cancer cells. [141]

An additional cancer protective property of Agaricus extract is that it helps inhibit the production of aromatase, a human enzyme associated with breast cancer development. [142]

Both water and alcohol extracts of Agaricus blazei contain potentially important therapeutic compounds. [143] The mycelium (“roots”) in particular appear to contain high concentrations. [25]

The immune enhancing properties of Agaricus extract may also make it useful against other diseases. E.g. a study on Agaricus blazei against salmonella reported positive results. [144]

Some words of caution: A 2003 comparison between different sources of Agaricus blazei reported that samples from China contained significantly higher levels of the heavy metal cadmium than samples from the U.S. [145]

The second caution is that, even though Agaricus blazei shows great cancer-fighting potential, it also contains carcinogenic compounds known as agaritines. (The agaritine compounds are also found in portobellos, crimini and button mushrooms.)

A 2003 study by Stijve et al. found that the Agaricus blazei extract produced in the U.S. by medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets contained significantly less agaritines compared with Agaricus blazei from California or China by a factor of 2000% and 8000% respectively. [145]

“Years ago, Paul Stamets … developed methods that precluded agaritines, and Stijve et al. (2003) published a comparison of commercial products from the US, China, and Japan. All but [Paul Stamets] products contained significant amounts of agaritine.” [145]

Additional therapeutic effects of Agaricus extract as listed by Paul Stamets in his book Mycelium Running may include: Blood sugar; viruses; cholesterol; sarcoma; colorectal cancer. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any medicinal mushroom or herb without prior approval by medical doctor.