EarthEssence Natural Therapies in Launceston, Tasmania | Medical and health

EarthEssence Natural Therapies

Locality: Launceston, Tasmania

Phone: +61 459 568 840

Address: 173 C Elphin Road 7250 Launceston, TAS, Australia

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24.01.2022 Benefits of Diaphragmatic Breathing Diaphragmatic breathing is defined as breathing through the nose into the diaphragm while the chest remains relatively still. This huge muscle is affected by both the Vagus Nerve and the Phrenic Nerve, and so acts as a cross road of information involving many body systems including the cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. So the theory is, if you can calm the information 'given out' by this muscle, you can ca...lm these systems. A review of recent studies was set up to determine if it's a worthwhile treatment for different conditions. Those experiencing asthma, CORD, hypertension, functional constipation and anxiety showed significant improvements for practicing this technique twice a day, through a mix of relaxing the nervous system and increasing blood and oxygen flow to affected organs. Those with asthma increased their lung volume, thoracic volume and decreased intrathoracic pressure, effectively giving them stronger lungs. Another study found that in elderly patients with cancer, diaphragmatic breathing helped as relaxation tool, and also by possible providing the body with more oxygen and improving respiratory behaviour. Another study on people suffering severe migraines found similar results. Of all the studies reviewed, the only ones that were inconclusive were those involving COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Two meta-analyses showed that this form of deep breathing improved walking distance and respiratory rate in people suffering from moderate to severe COPD while another review showed that it may actually make lung pain worse. The authors of the study concluded that practicing breathing using the diaphragm is a cost effective and practical technique for improving quality of life and management of the above mentioned treatment, while further study was required to really investigate how the technique affects the involved nerves. See more

24.01.2022 Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioca) Nettle leaf has long been used in western Herbal Medicine throughout Europe and Northern America. Also known as stinging nettle and common nettle, this perennial will grow wherever soil has been disturbed. It has been used in cloth manufacture up until the 20th Century as a replacement for linen. It would also have been one of the first herbs planted around houses in Middle Ages to form what we now know as a "lawn", which was originally just a co...llection of plants near the home used for cooking, medicine and stock feed. Young shoots, including the stem and leaves are still foraged for cooking and are used as a vegetable, and in today's modern would is often included in juices and smoothies, especially in England. Nettle has a very high mineral and vitamin content, including, most famously silica, due to the multitude of tiny fine thorns covering the leaf. In fact you get more silica from nettle than you do from Horsetail, as the silica in Horsetail is in long polymers that the intestinal system can barely absorb. Nettle leaf is most used as an 'alternative', a term we use as a blood cleanser, indicating its benefits for the liver. The high iron and vitamin C content in the one spot also make it a handy helper for anaemia. It is also used to promote milk flow for breast feeding. Made up as a tea, it can also be used as a hair rinse to help ease dandruff and other scalp conditions, and is also worthwhile trying on the skin as a compress to help with eczema and other weeping skin complaints. There are no contraindications or interactions for nettle leaf if you use it as a food or tea. But if you're using it long term and/or in excessive amounts you will get complications with diabetic medications and any medication that is affected by the liver, so even though this herb is very safe, be mindful you can still have too much of a good thing! See more

24.01.2022 Hi Everyone! Hope you are feeling well! Will be in the clinic tomorrow, if you want to pick up any supplements please arrange it with me privately so I can ensure there is only 1 person in the clinic at a time

24.01.2022 Sacropenia Sacropenia is the name given to the muscle wastage that occurs in old age, and becomes a major factor when talking about chronic injury and pain, loss of mobility and loss of independence for many people. While we don't really know what triggers it, we are beginning to understand the morphology and progression of the syndrome. Not only is there a loss of muscle tissue for the individual, if obesity is a problem you will also get fat tissue growing into the muscle.... So you have with less muscle fibres but also they become very ' disorganised' and consequently less effective. So reducing obesity is paramount to lessen sarcopenia. You have also heard the saying ' Use it or lose it"....that is the next step to reducing muscle loss! The more muscle mass you have, as well as the more active you are and remain into older age, the slower any muscle wastage will be. Thirdly, it is important to remember to eat protein, and strangely, this actually gets harder as you get older as digestive systems may not work as well and we also lose our 'taste buds' for protein....the body seems to prefer to eat less meat, so plant based or dairy based proteins become more and more important. Include lots of beans, milk products (if not lactose intolerant) and eggs in the diet. There does not seem to be a ' magic supplement' that you can take to prevent sarcopenia from happening, or to reverse it's effects, but it is being worked on as it's recognised as being a major health issue for more and more people...so watch this space! But, until then, as you get older, remember that movement and protein are your best friends! See more

23.01.2022 Fenugreek (Trionella foenum-graecum) Also known as Bird's Foot or Greek Hay Seed, this annual grows up to 60cm in length with small leaves in groups of 3 going up the stem. Native to the Eastern Mediterranean countries, it is now cultivated commercially in England, India, Africa and a small amount in Australia. Traditionally, it has been used as a fodder crop or a vegetable. In India, the seed is used as a spice in curries, as well as a vegetable as well as a natural sourc...e of yellow dye. In Egypt, the seed is roasted and used like coffee. As a medicinal herb, it can be used as a poultice, tea or herbal extract from the seed. It looks a lot like alfalfa to me, and can be grown on a kitchen bench in the same way, with or without soil. Therapeutically, the seed contains a lot of steroidal compounds that closely resemble the body's sex hormones, and has long had a tradition of use for increasing lactation in nursing mothers. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is used for impotence in men and also for the sweating and depression that can go alongside menopause in women. It has a very high source of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, which can also explain it's use for menopausal symptoms as well as rickets, anaemia, gout and scrofula. Added to a cream as pulverised seeds or an extract it has great drawing power, and is used to treat carbuncles, boils and abscesses. There is also evidence and current studies in regards to its use for Type 2 diabetes, as well as being a lung herb. While it has few contra-indications with medications, it does have a stimulating effect on the uterus and should not be used as a medicine by pregnant women. See more

23.01.2022 Post Menopause symptoms? Try St Mary's Thistle (Silybum marianum) When a naturopath or a herbalist makes up a tonic for a menopausal or post menopausal woman, depending on symptoms, we are sure to put in 2 herbs. One will be an oestrogenic herb such as chaste tree , as it has plant components that our bodies recognise and use as oestrogen. The other will be a liver herb, as liver breaks down old hormones, as well as ' causes heat in the body), and is useful for the managem...ent of hot flushes. St Mary's Thistle, also known as Milk Thistle (especially in America) has not been studied for use singularly in this way. In a recent study of 80 women, hot flush severity and frequency decreased at weeks 4, 8 and 12 while taking St Mary's Thistle in comparison to a placebo group of similar age, body weight, severity and frequency of hot flushes. It is thought to have worked due to a mild phyto-oestrogenic component of St Mary's Thistle as well as helping the liver be more efficient at breaking down excess oestrogen hormones when the body produces surges. Notably, the symptoms continued to be reduced 1 month after taking the St Mary's Thistle stopped. Future studies are being planned by the same team to compare results in larger groups and also against pharmaceutical treatments. Good to see science proving what we already know! See more

23.01.2022 The first aspect of the rare Sydney Rose to strike you is its beautiful, intense pink fragrant flower (about 2cms across) which does not fully open. Sydney Rose... can grow up to a metre in height. Pink is symbolic of the love vibration and the healing quality of this remarkable Essence is to realise and know on a deep heart level not merely an intellectual level that there is no separation between us, that we are all one. If human consciousness is going to evolve then this will need to be the one fundamental premise to be embraced and to operate from, for in so doing it will create compassion, tolerance and love for others and the willingness to help and support others. Not surprisingly, whilst making this Essence I kept hearing over and over this message "the crowning glory, the crowning glory, this is the crowning glory of the Bush Essences." https://ausflowers.com.au//Sydney-Rose-Flower-Essence-15ml #AustralianBushFlowerEssences #abfe #emotionalhealing #bushfloweressences #bushflowers #floweressences #bushessences #flowers #australia #vibrationalhealing #vibrationalmedicine #emotionalwellbeing #naturalremedies #healthyliving #separated #deserted #unloved #weareone #compassion #unity #together #connected #tolerance #love #oneness #weareallone

22.01.2022 Bursitis...The Gift that Keeps Giving.... but not in a good way! Every joint has layers of tissue. First there's the skin, then the different muscles and tendons, ligaments and the bones. You also get muscles, tendons and ligaments attaching to bones at different angles so you can get different movements, all of your joints are a mix of stability and flexibility. Now, when the different tissues move, it creates friction, so the bursa act like 'spacers', they help to give a...Continue reading

22.01.2022 Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) Also known as Absinthe, Madderwort, Green Ginger and Old Women, this herb has been used since ancient Greco-Roman times when it was used as an antidote to certain poisons, insect repellent and an antiseptic. Native throughout Europe, North Africa and western Asia, it was well known in English herbal medicine as one of the finest remedies for the digestive system known, and is still widely used for this purpose today. It will also stimulate th...e appetite, and so is a useful convalescence herb. It was also used at this time for labour pains and childbirth, an antidote for drunkedness, a remedy for intestinal worms and as a compress on the skin for pain. The flowers and tops are used in western Herbal Medicine and it is found mainly in tonics for the digestive process and worm infestations (especially roundworm and pinworm). This plant, as well as containing carotene, vitamin C and tannins also contains a volatile oil containing thujone. This oil is not found in a water extract. It acts as a suppressant on the central nervous system that can make a person feel like they're drunk! Taken in excess, this oil can cause vomiting, dizziness, vertigo, convulsion and even death, which led to the banning of the liqueur Absinthe in Europe in the nineteenth century. Now it is used sparingly to flavour vermouth! Due to potential toxicity in overdose or if taken for too long, this herb is not generally combined and given in minimal doses. It should be avoided by women who are pregnant or breast feeding, and in cases of peptic ulcers, acute gastroenteritis and haemorrhoids. See more

22.01.2022 Rosehips (Rosa canina) Rosehips are the 'fruits' formed after the rose flower has been fertilised and in which the seeds develop. You may want to use any rose in the garden but please take note that studies only use the traditional, old fashioned 'briar' type roses, not the hybrids that are so common today. Rosehips were used in Ancient Greece and have been used as a medicinal tea in most countries and cultures that have grown roses. Traditional European folk medicine used ...rosehip to treat a range of conditions such as diarrhoea, respiratory infection, bladder infection and diabetes. It has also been known to be a very rich source of vitamin C, and was used during and after World War 2 to prevent scurvy as citrus fruits were in short supply. Studies today show that rosehips are helpful in their traditional uses and also in the treatment of diabetes, as an immunomodulator, organ protective and anti-inflammatory due to other plant compounds found besides the vitamin C. Most people use this as a tea, and it is used as a nutritive or convalescent herb when used as a herbal extract. It is unlikely you will overdose on rosehips, but remember that excessive vitamin C will give you diarrhoea! See more

21.01.2022 Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) Also known as Red, Moose or Indian Elm, this herb is made from the inner bark of the tree. First used by the Native Indians of Eastern and Central America, it was found to be a useful healing agent to skin wounds and burns when moistened. Boiling the inner bark mad a brew that was healing and soothing to the digestive system. This tradition become part of pioneer folk medicine and was used and well documented by surgeons during the Civil War. Wh...ile it is not so widespread in the use of soothing and healing skin anymore, it is a mainstay for intestinal herbal medicine, whether it is for upset stomachs, food poisoning, ulcers, colitis, diarrhoea or constipation. It is also a nutritive herb and is often taken by people who are convalescing, especially if nausea is making it hard to keep food down. This herb is available as capsules or as a liquid extract and is very safe to take long term, although you must stay within a safe dose range. See more

21.01.2022 JUST ONE WEEK TO GO ..... BLUECOAST YOGA NEW WINTER TIMETABLE AND NEW LOCATION... Yoga classes will resume from Monday July 6th in the Conference Room at the Beachfront Bicheno. ********************************** Monday Restorative 3.15-4pm Beginners 4.30-5.45pm Men’s yoga 6.10- 7.15pm Tuesday Strength/stretch/flow 5.15-6.45pm Thursday Strength/stretch/flow 9-10.30am Gentle nourishment 11-11.45am The conference room will be a safe COVID-19 space with all necessary protocols adhered to. I so can’t wait for us to be together again on our mats and nurturing and caring for each other! See you soon. Helen xx

21.01.2022 Be safe and I’m sending you all hugs, kisses and healing love and light debs

20.01.2022 Thank you Healing Energy Tools debs

20.01.2022 A good reminder for this time of year!

19.01.2022 7 Signs of Zinc Deficiency Vital for the maintenance of good health, it is estimated that up to 85% of women and 50% of men are zinc deficient, due to poor diet, absorption problems, lack of zinc in Australian soil and diets that exclude foods rich in zinc. There is no storage of zinc in our body so a certain amount is required everyday, which is why some people require supplementation. Here are 7 signs of deficiency. White spots on fingernails, but be aware these can also b...e formed through knocks or injury Poor immune function, usually the most common sign Issues with poor taste or smell Mood and neurological disorders, including depression, lack of or poor sleep, nervousness and hyperactivity Exacerbation with gastrointestinal problems, due to poor healing abilities of cells Skin complaints, important for wound healing, maintenance of healthy skin and treatment of dermatitis problems and Thinning and grey hair. Zinc deficiency is associated with depigmentation of the hair. it is also an important cofactor for a healthy thyroid which, when compromised can also cause hair thinning and alopecia See more

18.01.2022 Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) Schisandra is primarily a Chinese herb, cultivated in North-Eastern China, but no doubt being grown in other parts of the world now. It's a woody vine that grows up to 8 metres tall with pink flowers that turn into red berries. The berries are the only plant part used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and they are one of the most important tonic herbs in this modality, being used to ' quiet the spirit and calm the heart'. It also grows in so...me parts of Russia, where it is known as Limonnik. Used in teas and herbal extracts, this herb is adaptogenic, meaning that its constituents will balance in particular, stress responses. The herb is also used to strengthen the uterus, improve mental clarity and improve irritability and forgetfulness. It's main area of use in the West is as a protector of the liver. Schisandra has over 30 different lignin components which are highly studied and all liver protective. It is also effective in the treatment of respiratory problems such as chronic coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing...this may be partially due to its high content of vitamin C. The high vitamin C content may also explain the traditional use for skin beauty and conditions, such as eczema and rashes. It can also be used to tone and strengthen the kidney, and to help improve failing eyesight and hearing. Limonnik The berries can be eaten raw or it can be used in a powder or as a liquid extract. Due to its increasing stomach acids and liver enzymes, it should not be taken by anyone who is on medication that is changed by the liver, such as (to name a few) ibuprofen, diclofenac and warfarin. It also should not be taken by anyone suffering from GERD, epilepsy, peptic ulcers or high brain (intercranial) pressure. Women who are pregnant or lactating should also not take this herb. See more

18.01.2022 Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestris) Gymnema, also known as gurmar or periploca of the woods, is native to India and Northern Africa and has an extremely long tradition in Ayurvedic medicine. It's traditional use was for balancing energy. mainly through the blood glucose system. It still has this use today, and is perhaps one of the most avidly researched plants for the aim of curing diabetes. The name gurmar means 'sugar destroyer". The whole plant or just the leaves are used. W...hen chewing the leaves, your taste for sweet and bitter is numbed, so food is virtually tasteless or tastes awful. If you were addicted to sugar, you would soon associate sweet food with a not very pleasant taste, instead of reinforcing reward patterns in the brain, leading to a reduction of food consumption. So it can help reduce weight as well as control sugar cravings! Some research has suggested it will also help restore the health of the pancreas, but this may depend on how much damage has already been done. As it helps to control blood sugar levels, in it also used as a liver tonic, and also has some anti inflammatory and diuretic effects. This herb was traditionally used by eating the leaves or having it as a tea, but has been available as a liquid extract for a few years. While the use of this herb sounds to good to be true, it is reliant on the person taking it, it won't build up in your system, so if you want to break your diet for a few days, all you have to do is not have the herb, so while it is very helpful for those with a sweet tooth, the person still has to be actively involved and committed to the diet. This appears to be a very safe herb to use long term, but if you are already diabetic and using medication, you should be careful integrating this herb into your self care, as it will alter the amounts of medication you will require. See more

17.01.2022 Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) Hyssop, also known as stewing herb, is a native to central Europe and Russia, and almost looks like a northern equivalent of lavender, although it grows into a bigger shrub and has a camphor scent. It has been introduced and naturalised in North America, and quite possibly some parts of cooler Australia. It is in fact a member of the mint family, and has long been used in perfumery and aromatic practices due to its powerful scent. It has long b...een revered as a sacred herb and has been used by many cultures and religions in cleansing rituals. We use the dried aerial parts of the plant in modern herbal medicine as a tea, herbal extract, syrup or in creams such as chest rubs. The essential oil can be used in aromatics but should never be consumed as it contains a compound called ketone pino-camphone, which can cause convulsions. It is commonly used now for coughs, colds, and bronchitis as it has anti spasmodic and expectorant actions. It will also lower fevers and can be sedative as well. It is believed to be anti viral, especially against cold sores, and like many herbs these days is being tested for anti-bacterial and anti- inflammatory properties. While it is considered safe to use long term in teas or as a culinary herb, there is still some debate as to long term use as a herbal extract, due to some of its more volatile components, so stick within dosing limits and probably don't give it to children. People who have seizures should stay away from this herb. See more

16.01.2022 Angelica (Angelica archangelica) Also known as Garden Angelica, European Angelica, wild Angelica and greater Angelica, this plant is a native of Europe, Scotland and Lapland and is quite different to Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis) which most of you would know as Dong Quai. According to legend, in the Middle Ages, an angel appeared to a monk in a dream and told him this plant would cure the plaque, and so it was given the name Angelica (with the archangel added later). ...It was used for everything from dog bites to ulcers, from deafness to colic, but became used medicinally as a carminative (digestion) and expectorant (lung) from the 17th Century. The roots and leaves are used medicinally while the stems and seeds are used for culinary purposes. It is used mainly as a tea or herbal extract. Angelica is mainly used now for coughs, bronchitis and pleurisy, especially when it is accompanied by fevers, colds or influenza. It's antispasmodic and carminative actions make very useful for dyspepsia, relaxing the stomach, flatulence and is also useful in stimulating appetite, especially for those suffering from anorexia nervosa. It has a long history of being a 'botanical' in alcohols such as gin, vermouth, Benedictine and chartreuse due to its effects on calming the digestive system and as a flavouring agent. It will also increase urine production, making it useful for the treatment of cystitis and urinary inflammation, but overdosing can cause problems for the kidneys. Used topically on the skin it is useful for pressure sores, joint and nerve pain. A very interesting treatment for Angelica is the essential oil being used in aromatherapy to diminish nicotine cravings with studies proven to have beneficial effects with only 2 minutes of use! Unfortunately for Angelica archangelica, it suffers from a lack of study, (and use these days) due to the popularity of its Asian counterparts. it should not be used by pregnant or lactating women, and use in some people can cause pigmentation changes to the skin with sunlight. See more

16.01.2022 Can't Sleep? Try acupressure. One of the best acupressure points I've used for insomnia or unpeaceful sleep in CV 17, also known as 'chest opener' or the Sea of Tranquility, to give it's Chinese name. It can be felt easily on the breastbone, 3 thumb widths up from the base of the bone. What I have found in practice is that the 'block' can ' move' up and down as the energy of the meridian changes, so you can also 'walk' your fingers up along the breast bone to make sure you u...nblock any point along the Conception Vessel Meridian. This meridian is known as the "Sea of Yin", so it is about being able to rest, relax, restore and be at peace with yourself (to put it simply). The Conception Vessel is paired with the Governing vessel, which runs down your spine. This is the "Sea of Yang", so it's about being vibrant, dynamic and strong. One of the easiest ways to balance, and unblock, the both of them is to stretch your back using the cat pose (arch your back) and then stretch your front using the cobra pose. But do both stretches gently, don't over extend yourself. See more

16.01.2022 When was the last time you really relaxed??

15.01.2022 Corn Silk (Zea Mays) First cultivated in the Andes Mountains and Central America, this is the good old fashioned corn that you grow in your backyard. The long fibres from the corn are traditionally taken and boiled in water to give an infusion or tea. From South America, corn has been introduced into Europe and Asia as a food source but also as a useful remedy for acute or chronic inflammation of the urinary system, which is NOT the same as treating kidney infection or infl...ammation. Corn silk is used for cystitis, urethritis prostatitis, nocturnal bed wetting, kidney stones and gout. It soothes and relaxes the bladder and the lining of the urinary tubules. While not treating the kidneys, it's thought that improving urine flow helps prevent the formation of kidney stones and the excretion of the kidney stones (by relaxing the tubules). It is thought to have a similar action on the bile duct according to Traditional Chinese medicine. This makes it easier for more bile to flow from the liver into the small intestine to improve chemical breakdown of fats and proteins. Corn silk is a very safe herb to take and can be used in large amounts for quite a long period of time as a tonic for the bladder, but again, it will not treat the kidneys! Due to its diuretic action, it should not be used with diuretic medication. See more

14.01.2022 Post Operative Pain? You May Want to Try Vitamin C Vitamin C is so easy to get from so many foods that it's questionable if any one without a health complaint needs to supplement it. And we all know how good it is for us, but did we ever think of it as pain relief? A recent meta analysis of 7 placebo controlled trials involving over 500 patients evaluated the effect of vitamin C on acute post operative pain. It was given either intravenously or orally with doses ranging fr...om 0.5g twice a day to 50mg per kg of patient weight for the intravenous groups, while 2g per day was given to those in the oral taking group. Pooled analysis showed lower pain scores and lower morphine use in the intravenous groups when compared with placebo at 1 to 2 hours, 6 hours and 24 hours post operation. The oral administration also showed significant reductions in pain and morphine use at 6 and 24 hours post operation when compared to placebo groups. It's thought that the simple reduction in oxidative stress to any nerve injury following an operation prevents the development and maintenance of nerve pain. So while we can't all be hooked up to an IV drip, if you're suffering from pain, it may be worthwhile including some vitamin C in your treatment program. See more

14.01.2022 Rough Bluebell (Trichodesma zeylanicum) This plant is found in sub tropic and tropic areas of South East Asia, Africa, India and Australia (except for Victoria and Tasmania). It doesn't seem to grow in abundance, ie you won't come across a field of them, but grow spread out across grass and wood lands. This flower is used in the Australian Bush Flower Essence range for the heart chakra, and is a card that people usually 'don't like' getting, mainly because it has to do with ...manipulation, whether one has been the victim or the perpetrator! But it is certain that we have all been both at times, and this essence is all about accepting your 'dark with the light' and moving on. On a physical level, it is thought to affect the frontal lobe, which has a control mechanism for impulsiveness, which is why it's great for people who act without thinking through the repercussions, or for those who just don't care of the consequences for other people. It is also good for those who crave and demand the love and devotion of others, but can not or will not return those emotions. In India, the flower is used traditionally as medicine for dog and snake bites and scorpion stings (quite good symbolism!) while Australian Aborigines use the plant to treat skin sores, itches and lesions. On an energetic level, this essence is also used to cleanse a person's skin of those things that irritate us, while filling a person with love, compassion and sensitivity towards self and others. See more

14.01.2022 Crateva (Crataeva magna, synonomis with Crataeva nurvala) Found in the sub-alpine regions of India and Bangladesh this deciduous tree can grow over 15 metres and produces long, large dark green leaves and beautiful fragrant white/cream flowers. The bark and leaves were traditionally used as a strong tea, and was considered the go to remedy for anything to do with the renal system. When we use it in western herbal medicine it is almost exclusively the bark that is used in ...a liquid extract. It is also known as the Sacred Lingam tree, the Holy Garlic Pear or the 3 leaved caper. The constituents work to help strengthen the bladder muscles and to treat bed wetting, incontinence and chronic and acute urinary tract infections. It helps deactivate glycolate oxidase enzymes, which decrease oxalate and the formation of kidney stones. It also acts as a urinary disinfectant and a diuretic. Another common use is in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Crateva has also been noted to be good for the heart as it clears arteries, but this use is still being studied by western medicine. Other known uses in modern Ayurvedic medicine include reducing inflammation for arthritis sufferers, treated infected lymph nodes of the neck and in general, being a blood purifier. This last action also makes it a handy liver treatment. While this herb has no known contraindications or cautions, as it could make people dizzy due to changes in blood pressure ( as the kidney is greatly involved in maintaining blood volume). Also it should be noted that kidney and bladder infections and conditions can have huge impacts on your health, so it would be advisable to get conditions correctly diagnosed by a doctor instead of guessing what's wrong and trying to treat it yourself. See more

14.01.2022 Trinity College Dublin has begun transforming its front lawns into wildflower meadows after public support for the bee-friendly project.

12.01.2022 How Are You?? Between Covid, financial stress, travel restrictions, trying to get back to some form of 'normal' and media full of bomb blasts, fires, and race riots, AND then throw in an American election with Trump at the centre of seemingly everything......How are you? I can't remember a time of life where things seemed more complicated, draining, stressful, tiring on Every Level for Everyone, GLOBALLY, so if you need a break, but can't get further away than Flinders or ...Bass Island....here's some tips! Don't be afraid to turn off the tv for a while Don't be afraid to get help with your sleep routine...if you can't sleep, EVERYTHING is harder. Don't be afraid to make big changes in your life....Things may seem unstable now, but waiting for things to 'get better' may mean you're waiting forever.....if it needs changing, then change it. Don't forget the difference of good diet can make...You can eat yourself into depression within 1 month of poor nutrition, and it will then take about 6 months to 'eat' your way out of it. Don't forget to be as social as you can with the ones who support and uplift you, and don't forget to support and uplift them. Don't punish yourself for a bad day or week. We all have them! Don't be afraid to tell everyone to go away for a bit so you can regroup, chances are, they may be wishing they could do the same thing. Don't be afraid to get qualified help from a GP, herbalist, psychiatrist.....what ever help you need! Stay Well Everyone!!

12.01.2022 Advice from María Sabina, Mexican healer and poet - Heal yourself with the light of the sun and the rays of the moon. With the sound of the river and the wa...terfall. With the swaying of the sea and the fluttering of birds. Heal yourself with mint, neem, and eucalyptus. Sweeten with lavender, rosemary, and chamomile. Hug yourself with the cocoa bean and a hint of cinnamon. Put love in tea instead of sugar and drink it looking at the stars. Heal yourself with the kisses that the wind gives you and the hugs of the rain. Stand strong with your bare feet on the ground and with everything that comes from it. Be smarter every day by listening to your intuition, looking at the world with your forehead. Jump, dance, sing, so that you live happier. Heal yourself, with beautiful love, and always remember ... you are the medicine. See more

12.01.2022 Sciatica or Piriformis Syndrome As we are self isolating and not moving around as much, some of you may be experiencing sciatica....that sharp, numbing pain that shoots down 1 leg that makes hard to get up, difficult to walk, and then you make it worse every time you go to sit or stand up or get in and out of cars. As you can see from the picture of muscles, the sciatic nerve runs down from the spine and threads through between the piriformis muscle and the rest of the glut...eal muscles. So when it becomes inflamed, it causes muscular inflammation. Similarly, when there is muscular inflammation, this irritates the nerve, causing pain. It's often made worse by obesity, lack of exercise, wearing high heels and sleeping on too soft a mattress. First aid includes rest, ice treatment ( 10 minutes on and 20 minutes off), or gentle heat if you've been battling the pain for more than 2 days, and referral to GP to ensure there's nothing worse going on and getting better pain relief and/or anti-inflammatories. In herbal medicine, we would recommend a nerve relaxant such as passionflower or a muscle relaxant such as teasel or magnesium supplementation. Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory but often doesn't really work for sciatica unless you team it with a nerve relaxant and/or magnesium. Gentle stretches will also help. How do you tell if it's sciatica or bursitis? A quick check is that sciatica hurts all the time, but bursitis hurts when you walk up stairs but not while walking! See more

12.01.2022 White Horehound (Murrubium vulgare) The name for this herb is thought to originate from the Old English 'Har hune' , meaning hairy plant, but can also have its name traced back to Ancient Egypt where it was a popular herb and thought to be named after the Egyptian god Horus. It also has a Jewish tradition where it is one of the herbs eaten at Passover. It is a bushy perennial herb with white flowers and a woolly appearance thanks to all of the fine hairs that cover it, and i...s native to Central and Southern Europe, North Africa and West Asia. It became naturalised to the United Kingdom where is was used for horehound candy, or what we now know as a cough lozenge. Eastern regions of England used to brew white horehound as an ale. Emigrants took white horehound to Northern America, where it was widely used by the Shaker communities and has now become naturalised there. The dried leaves and flowering tops are used in herbal medicine as a tea, liquid extract,powder or expressed juice. It can also be included in an ointment for healing wounds and skin conditions. The plant's bitter principle 'marrubin' is useful as a bitter digestive and also has an expectorant property......hence it's traditional use for coughs and respiratory disorders. It also has an anti spasmodic action on the bronchus. The calming action is extended throughout the body, and is often used for ' a nervous heart'. There has been some scientific study into the use of murrubin for normalising an irregular heartbeat. Low therapeutic doses are safe. Excessive doses can seriously decrease blood pressure as well as cause disturbances in normal heart rhythm. It is thought best to deep pregnant women on very low doses See more

11.01.2022 Kudos Dad. This little girl will have precious memories of her childhood and spending time with her daddy!! Credit: jimu25702 - https://www.instagram.com/jimu25702/

10.01.2022 This Essence is for people who feel stuck. It acts as a catalyst for those who know what they want to achieve but do not know how to go about it. It is for peop...le who are too reliant on others. It promotes independence and boldness. This Essence is extremely effective, though the changes may not be as anticipated. Like the Grey Spider Flower this plant is a member of the Grevillea family and its flowers are a dark red colour, similar in colour to the Waratah. #AustralianBushFlowerEssences #abfe #emotionalhealing #bushfloweressences #bushflowers #floweressences #bushessences #flowers #australia #vibrationalhealing #vibrationalmedicine #emotionalwellbeing #naturalremedies #healthyliving #stuck #feelingstuck #oversensitive #criticism #reliant #boldness #strengthtomove #empower

09.01.2022 Hibbertia (Hibbertia pendunculata) This flower essence is used in the Australian Bush Flower Essence range to help regulate and balance the parathyroid glands. These glands are responsible for the hormones that help both lay down and break down calcium and phosphorus in the bones, which then balances blood calcium levels. When more bone is broken down than laid down, we start to get problems of weakened/ breaking bones and osteoporosis. Energetically, it is highly linked ...to the sacral chakra. The sacral energy centre is linked to the structure of the physical body, so skeleton, muscles and organs. In terms of emotional energy, it linked to movement (look at how close the name is to 'inertia'!). Are you happy with yourself, do you accept yourself, are you always striving to be the best, are you constantly working on yourself but not letting anything integrate and/or balance? This essence is really useful for those who are constantly learning but neve seem to fully integrate the knowledge (hence it's use in the Cognis essence). In more 'spiritual' terms, it 's great for people who are 'workshopaholics' as a teacher or a learner, but don't seem content to just 'be'. See more

08.01.2022 Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) Also known as trefoil, cow clover, meadow clover and bee bread, this plant is found in pastures, meadows and along roadsides in Europe, temperate Asian countries and Northwest Africa. As a fodder plant, it is now naturalised in most countries. It's a short lived perennial, growing to 50cm in height with dense red, purple or white flowers. The flower heads are used either in herbal medicine, either as a tea or herbal extract. This herb is an al...terative, a term which loosely means blood cleansing, but more accurately helps the cleanse the lymph system. This makes it a very useful plant in treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Red clover seems to be especially good for children with these complaints and is best tried first as a tea, which can be flavoured to a child's taste. It is a relaxant and expectorant, making it useful in the treatment of bronchitis and whooping cough. This herb is perhaps best known in Australia as an oestrogenic , and is therefore useful in treating unwanted symptoms of menopause and other hormonal disorders. If treating menopause, I would team it with something for the adrenal glands, such as oat seed or withania. Some people may be allergic to this plant, so if you have any allergies to any member of the Papilionaceae family do not ingest or use on skin. it also should not be taken by any women who are breast feeding, pregnant, or have endometritis, uterine or ovarian cancers or uterine fibroids, due to its oestrogen like compounds. This plant is naturalised in Tasmania, but please be sure to have someone correctly identify the plant before using it, as there are many species of clover and the information here is very species specific! See more

07.01.2022 When was the last time you went to the dentist? People seem to sort into 2 categories, those who go regularly and those who are dragged kicking and screaming only when it's really, really, really necessary (I'm in the second!). But dental health really is a keystone to our overall health, not just for our teeth but also for the health of our gums. Unhealthy gums can be a very easy route for bacterial infections that undermine our immune system, and leading us to always have... colds, feel run down or tired, etc. So we take extra vitamin C or herbs, blame our lifestyle or modern day living or just getting old.....when in reality our dental health is the problem. Studies have shown that improving dental health can reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in people by between 30 to 50%, that's a massive improvement in overall health management for those people. There's no reason to believe that this sort of result wouldn't extend to throughout the population. And while the idea of getting a filling is terrifying for some, there is a new movement now in dental science called minimal interference, whereby very small cavities are left, and with changes in dental hygiene and diet, most will actually be repaired by the body itself. And that's great news for those of us who curl up in the foetal position when we hear the sound of a drill. So if you feel like your health is a constant battlefield, it may be worthwhile having your teeth and gums checked! See more

07.01.2022 My Back's Sore...... The perennial need for a massage therapist that is never ending.....sore backs. So here are a few stretches to help with sore backs that may not immediately come to mind. If you've hurt your back or ongoing problems, please get it checked by a doctor or a physiotherapist....this does not mean a physical trainer (no offence but they're not trained medically, nor do they have access to ultrasounds or xrays). Photo 1 is the cat stretch. it lengthens all o...f the thoracic muscles (middle back) and is fantastic for the muscles that go along the length of the spine which will get tight whenever the back or neck is sore without you noticing. Do it gently, you want to feel a light stretch as opposed to pain. The next 2 photos are for the legs. If you have back pain, you will walk stiffly, which means that the legs won't move in their usual way, and so the quads and calf muscles in particular get tight. This exacerbates not moving correctly, the stiffness in the back is amplified and the cycle continues and worsens. Many people will insist on an hour massage for their back, but would get a much better result long term if they let the therapist spend 15 minutes on the back of their legs. With the calf stretch, ensure that both feet are pointing forward and are aligned with the leg, otherwise you won't get the best stretch and may end up hurting the knee. Also be gentle with this one, if you go too hard you can hurt the back muscles further. The third picture stretches the hamstrings and the calf and will give a gentle stretch to the length of the spine as well. Only go as far as you can comfortably go, if you can only reach your knees, that's fine....it's a stretch, not a competition See more

06.01.2022 Hi Everyone!! Hope you are all well. Have just been told that restrictions on massage are being lifted on May 18th, so feel free to make a booking using facebook or ringing/texting me on 0459 568 840. If you have flu like symptoms please be wise and isolate/get medical help! Let's hope this is the start of rebuilding!! P.S. had my flu vaccination 3 weeks ago

06.01.2022 Methylation...What Does It Really Mean? If you are follower of naturopathic medicine or alternative therapies, you are likely to have heard about methylation, with a big fuss being made about whether you need certain Vitamin B products (especially folic acid) or not depending on what genes you have. Before you spend more money on a vitamin B product or have an expensive genetic test done...consider the following information from the latest seminars.... 1. Methylation is basically another word for energy production, if you're alive then you're methylating, if you're dead, then you're not......it really is that simple. When flooded with the argument or someone giving you health advice, if in doubt, refer back to this. 2. The people who did the original work on methylation and whether certain genetic components required different forms of vitamin B now consider it to be a moot point. They no longer to the testing, not do they recommend that people have it done. 3. Having methyl groups on your genetics is perfectly normal and you can think of them as a stop sign on a road. It basically says do you really want to rush through or would you prefer to pause and think a bit....sometimes it won't matter, sometimes it will. We don't know what will happen long term to people who take supplement forms that over ride this stop sign and enter more compounds directly into the energy production cycle. 4. Folic acid acts as a genetic stabiliser and there is no evidence that having folate supplements promotes folate sensitive cancer. 5. There is very little evidence that unmetabolized folic acid causes harm. Thousands of trials using folic acid at greater that 200mcg/day have demonstrated safety and efficiency. 6. Folic acid does not mask B12 levels. This was believed when the two could not be clinically distinguished from each other, but those days are long past, anyone who tells you otherwise should get up to date information. 7 And perhaps the most important.....It is believed by some that folic acid cannot be used in individuals with the MTHFR polymorphism ( ie the ' dreaded' methyl gene!). This is simply not true, it works equally well regardless of whether the gene is there or not....BUT IT IS CLEVER MARKETING!

05.01.2022 I'm often asked by people how to become more 'spiritual'? You can study various modalities, do workshops, follow different 'recipes' or gurus, or you can JUST Be KIND. Without expecting or wanting reward or recognition, From others or the Universe... To yourself, others and the World around you JUST BE KIND. Doesn't mean you can't express an opinion or have to be quiet to keep the peace, Doesn't mean people can walk over you or expect you to be a slave, Doesn't mean you won't have bad days or people or circumstances that really push every single button. It just means at the end of the day, Go back to the first principle, JUST BE KIND. See more

04.01.2022 Calm and Clear Spray and Mist Produced by Australian Bush Flower Essences, this mix is great for slowing the mind and helping with being calm in times of stress. The drops can be taken orally, or put onto the pulse point while the mist is sprayed over the head. This one is really good for people who can't sleep or for young children who have had nightmares (although Emergency Essence may work better for those who are REALLY stressed). It will also work well with pets. You ...can put the drops directly into their mouth or into their water bowl or spray the mist over their head and body. It tends not to bother dogs too much, although they may dislike the faint smell, but cats get really funny about outside influences on their energy field, so while you may get a first go.....don't be surprised if you don't get a second!! You can still buy from the clinic, just send me a message or text and we can arrange a time for you to pick the products up. Also, if you live in the Newstead/Norwood/South Norwood area they can be delivered to you free of charge, or alternatively, products can be posted out. See more

04.01.2022 Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale) Also known as Lion's Teeth, Fairy Clock and Swine's Snout, the dandelion is one of the most useful plants in herbal medicine, and people still call it a weed! All parts of the plant are used, but this review is about the root. The roots are best collected mid summer when the plant is at its height of growth and the root is at its most bitter part of the life cycle. It is then split and dried. It can be used in a herbal extract, tea o...r coffee or eaten as a food. The root contains many bitter components, making it a great food or treatment for the liver and digestive system as a whole. It is very high in vitamins and minerals, especially potassium. So one of its main actions as a herb is as a source of nutrition. For the liver, it increases the amount and the quality of bile produced and will also help protect the liver. As an alterative it works with the blood and the lymphatic fluid to help 'clean' out these circulatory systems. It is a mild laxative, and is anti-inflammatory for the digestive system, especially the intestines. It also has a diuretic effect, which can be helpful for women with menstrual symptoms that cause bloating or for people for have buildup within their lymphatic system. Dandelion root may also help relieve the swelling of arthritis. While it is generally a very safe herb that can be taken long term that are a few cautions. If you have any problems with the bile duct or gall bladder it is best to stay away from dandelion root. Also for those people on medication that requires low or no supplementation of potassium, it would be best to stay away from this herb. This also includes people who are having dialysis treatment, which requires people to limit the amount of potassium in their diet. See more

03.01.2022 Recent Study on Reducing Obesity Risk Using Alpha Lipoic Acid Alpha lipoic acid ( or lipoic acid) has been used as an antioxidant supplement to help scavenge free radicals and metal ions, as well as promoting antioxidant defence systems. It has been used to promote healthy blood sugar levels in people and healthy weight by alternative health practitioners due to its ability to 'clean up' the llver, which in turn, gives us better blood sugar control. In this meta analysis pu...blished in the JOurnal of Clinical Practice in 2020, the authors aimed to combine the results of many studies to see what they can learn from a much larger group of subjects. Out of 1910 studies identified 24 were similar in terms of dosage, age of participants, length of time on supplementation and use of placebo group. They found that taking the lipoic acid significantly reduced BMI and weight when compared to the placebo group. They also found that waist circumference reduction was highly dependent on the length of time the lipoic acid was taken (ie, the longer on the supplement, the greater the reduction in waist). They also found that this reduction in waist circumference had a greater impact for the women involved in the study but not the men. So, particularly if you're female, taking lipoic acid long term can help reduce your obesity risk. See more

03.01.2022 And today's card is Kwan Yin (also transliterated Guan Yin), the Chinese mother of compassion. She is a healing Goddess and is said to grant children to those ...who want them. In these topsy turvy times, remember to have compassion for yourself and others as we go through these difficult changes. We are all going through this, though undoubtedly some of us have it harder than others. Keep those of us who are struggling in your mind, even if you are also struggling--don't allow your fear or anger at the situation in the world make you close off that world and the people in it. It can be very easy to start thinking selfishly when you are scared--with good reason, as you do need to see to your own safety first--but again, do not let yourself get so hardened you cannot feel compassion for others. Keep them in mind, and do what you can to help. Kwan Yin ("She Who Hears the Prayers of the World") was originally the mother Goddess of China, who proved so popular She was adopted into the Buddhist pantheon as a bodhisattva (much like the Goddess Bridhet was made a saint). A bodhisattva is a person who has attained enlightenment but chooses to forgo Nirvana and remain in the world to help others attain enlightenment. Kwan Yin's specialty is compassion, and She is known as the Goddess of Mercy. Before She became a bodhisattva, Kwan Yin was a princess named Miao Shan. As Miao Shan She endured many trials, especially from Her father, who wanted Her to marry. But She refused, and instead dedicated Her life to Buddhism. As the still-popular mother Goddess of China, Kwan Yin is known as a great healer who can cure all ills. She is also a Goddess of fertility, and is often shown holding a child. In this aspect She is known as Sung-Tzu Niang-Niang, "The Lady Who Brings Children." She is shown holding a crystal vase, pouring out the waters of creation. Simply calling Her name in time of crisis is believed to grant deliverance. Kwan Yin is sometimes also depicted as male, especially in Japan, where She is called Kwannon, and equated with the bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, Lord of Compassion. This card in a reading indicates compassion and mercy are needed in a situation.You can cultivate compassion by meditating on this card, or the other Goddesses of compassion, White Tara and Green Tara. Remember to first of all shine compassion on your own self. Alternate names: Kwan Shih Yin, Kwannon, Kannon, Guan Yin, Kwanjin, Miao Shan (which would be an awesome name for a cat!) Titles: Senjiu-Kwannon, "Thousand-handed Kwannon" and Jiu-ichi-men Kwannon, "Kwannon of the Eleven Faces," both of which are attributes of Avalokitesvara; Bato-Kwannon, "Kwannon With The Horse's Head" (from a figure of a horse's head in Her diadem)

03.01.2022 Paw Paw (Carica papaya) The Paw Paw essence is very popular in the Australian Bush Flower Essence range as it is all about feeling overwhelmed and needing the energy and emotional support to be able to cope. For that reason, it's found in the Cognis and Radiation essence blends, but depending on an individual's circumstances, I have also added to the relationship, emergency, adolescence and transition blends. It helps people to integrate the information at hand, to make clea...r decisions and to ' look before leaping'. So it can also be quite useful for younger children with ADHD symptoms. On the physical side, it can be quite a good essence for back problems (after all this is your physical support). I find though that most people who take this essence, besides head aches, usually have stomach symptoms, as this is an organ that reacts very quickly to stress and anxiety. See more

02.01.2022 Mushrooms, mushrooms and more mushrooms! Yes, the hobbits had it right! Mushrooms are a great food source filled with vitamins, minerals and fibre, but they are being studied more and more for their B-Glucans. B-Glucans are complex sugar polymers found in the cell walls of algae, lichen, fungi, bacteria, yeasts and some plants such as oats and barley. Their role in decreasing cholesterol levels are well studied now, but they are also being looked at more and more for their e...ffect on the immune system. B-Glucans, especially those in medicinal mushrooms such as reishi and portabello, are being found to have a positive effect on the innate and acquired immune system. They have antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties and are believed to help in times of fatigue, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation and for chronic skin ailments. Manufacturing processes are believed to be detrimental to the size of the molecule (ie breaks the polymer chain), which decreases the functionality of the polymer within the human body. So for your immune system, and cholesterol levels, increasing mushrooms in your diet is a great way to optimise your health....just don't cook them to death! See more

01.01.2022 So....How is your liver? Thanks to the excesses of Christmas and New Year, our liver, and digestive system in general often needs a bit of a break. Here are some things you can do to help the liver in particular. 1. All that sugar and alcohol.........stop having it!... 2. Drink more water 3. Increase your fresh vegetable and fibre intake 4. Get some exercise 5. Have foods or liquids with bitter tastes to prompt the liver to make more bile (beer and wine don't really count with this one) 6. If still feeling 'sluggish' get some liver herbs such as St Mary's Thistle, Dandelion Root, Gentian or Globe Artichoke, but if you are going to take herbs, you must drink more water to get the most benefit 7. Get some sleep.....don't disregard how a few nights of good sleep can help your health in all areas See more

01.01.2022 No, you’re not stuck in a chronic hysteresis*; I picked Kamrusepas again, just like yesterday. She’s the Hittite Goddess of healing and magic Who heals with s...weetness. She is a powerful magician. I take Her appearance today as reinforcing yesterday’s advice to nourish yourself with good food and kindness. This world right now is, frankly, a mess; and while it is an excellent opportunity to change things for the better this is also hard, hard work. There is a lot of very justified anger in the air now; and while anger can be very useful it can also be very wearying. Kamrusepas at this time is a gentle reminder that we cannot go at full tilt all the time. We must make sure our own needs are met before we can be of best service to others. Take some time today to do something nourishing for yourself; this could mean eating well, making time to meditate on the sweet things in your life, forgiving yourself for a past wrong, or anything else that brings a little kindness into your life. At the very least, stretching to release any tension you’ve been holding in will do you a world of good today. From my website: Kamrusepas is a healer Goddess of the Hittites, a people who lived in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) and northern Syria, around 2000-1200BCE (when they were conquered by the Egyptians under Ramesses II). The Hittite pantheon of "the Thousand Gods" came to include Deities from many neighboring pantheons, such as those of Sumeria and Babylon, Assyria, and even India. Kamrusepas "the Mother" was known as a powerful magician and healer, Who could heal paralysis and cure illness by "loosening that which is bound." According to legend, Kamrusepas was responsible for healing the agriculture and fertility God Telepinu of His anger. In His rage He had withdrawn from the world, taking all His possessions with Him. Without His life-giving gifts, nothing on Earth or the world of the Gods would grow. Fires could not be lit, plants and animals died, and even the Gods starved. On the orders of the Mother Goddess Hannahannas, a bee was sent to sting Telepinu and goad Him from hiding. This, naturally enough, did not do much for His temper, and when He returned, Kamrusepas performed a complex ritual, calming the God with honey and fruits, and banishing His anger to the Underworld. Kamrusepas is shown here combing out Her braid to prepare to work Her healing magic. Symbolically, hair represents energy and the life-force, shown in the tradition by which witches were reputed to bring wind or storms by brushing their hair. This unbinding is also meant to show how the metaphor of paralysis can be healed, by carefully untangling a situation and letting go what needs to go. Drawing this card in a reading indicates that a situation that is stubbornly stuck can be freed up by working with the ideas of relaxation and release, and that healing flows best when you are comfortable and calm and open to the energy of the Universe. Also, keep in mind that an attitude of nourishing sweetness can do wonders. Alternate names: Katahzippuri, Katahzipuri, Kamrushepash, Kammarushepash *also known as a time loop, for those of you who aren’t Gallifreyan.

01.01.2022 Underarm Lymphatic Drainage This is an area where 'do it yourself' is very easy and practical. You don't need to dig deep, you're not looking to smooth out muscle knots but to move the lymphatic fluid that's found in/around all tissues. A little each day or every second day done consistently will be more beneficial than seeing someone once a fortnight or month. Don't forget to drink water to help the fluid move and all over exercise, such as walking, will help reduce overall lymphatic build up .your best helper is muscle movement! Please remember that if you feel any unusual lumps to see your GP