Rush Limbaugh Hospitalized

Mr. Rush Limbaugh, the successful and popular conservative radio talk show host, was hospitalized in Honolulu, Hawaii on Wednesday (December 30). Mr. Limbaugh was on his usual two-week annual vacation during Christmas time. We all pray for a fast recovery for Mr. Limbaugh. Get Well Soon, Rush.

When in doubt...PRAY

The Number 7and Number 3

In the Jewish tradition, the number 7 signifies whole, completion, oneness, and unity. It is a perfect number. God the creator made heaven and Earth in 7 days. There are 7 heavens and 7 earths. The Catholic Church has 7 commandments. The number 7 refers to God, the Almighty, being perfect. Another number of importance is number 3. We believe in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus Christ was risen from the dead after 3 days.

Insomnia

Herbalists often recommend a relatively higher dose of Valerian in the management of insomnia. Valerian is a very powerful herb and should never be taken if the patient is planning to operate machinery (like driving a car).

Happy Sunday

A Christmas Story

My family and I used to travel to Michigan on Christmas to celebrate the holidays with relatives. About ten years ago, we were coming back home on Christmas day. There was nothing opened to dine except for a Chinese restaurant in Ohio. We stopped there about 7 PM Christmas day. The Restaurant had a buffet and it was not full, except for a few tables. We stayed there for about an hour. On the way out I stopped by the cashier to pay my bill. The cash register guy told me that it had been paid by another party who were there dining that evening. I asked who they were. He answered that he was not supposed to tell. I offered to leave a tip. He said the tips was also included in that payment. We left the restaurant smiling and with thanks in our heart. It had just started to snow. We run to the car to get going. Someone had cleaned our windshield from the snow. We had a very nice time with our relatives that Christmas, and we gained more on the road home. Merry Christmas.

Happy Birthday BMP

Today Botanical Medicine Posts (BMP) is one year old. Thanks to all my Followers and readers, you have inspired me to continue writing this blog. Thank you.

The United States Senate Passes the Health Care Coverage Bill Today with a Vote of 60 to 39

HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAH, HALLELUJAAAAA...H

Will January 2010 Repeat that of 2002?

The above picture was taken in Fuquay-Varina, NC on January 4, 2002. It was a huge surprise to say the least.

Vitamin C

Ascorbic acid is the chemical name for Vitamin C. This vitamin has been shown to help with flu and cold symptoms. Vitamin C is also important for absorbing iron from gastrointestinal tract. Perhaps the most important function of Vitamin C is with eyes health. Fruits are important sources of Vitamin C.

Yucca Plant in Snow

Yucca

This plant is useful for skin applications as well as being an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Naturopaths use Yucca for arthritis and similar conditions.

Microbiology Testing

To detect the presence of bacteria or fungi in a sample a portion of the sample is incubated in agar. The incubation period varies depending on the suspected micro-organism being detected. Some incubation periods may last up to two weeks at a specified temperature. If the micro-organism is present in the test sample, its growth would be obvious in the agar medium.

Alga growing inside an enclosed dome

Indian Figurines

Cholesterol and Triglycerides

This chart represents the blood cholesterol and triglycerides levels for one patient obtained over a period of 15 years. Notice the agreement in the troughs and peaks between the two levels.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a natural red pigment found mainly in tomatoes and watermelon. This agent has been associated with a decrease risk of many cancers, primarily prostate cancer. lycopene is an extremely powerful antioxidant.

PSA Levels

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) rises in patients who suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or in patients with prostate cancer. Although the test is not highly predictive for prostate cancer, it does help in the total evaluation of patient. In this chart, the data are for a patient who reached the age of 50 years corresponding to the point on the x-axis of 140 months. Note the steep incline in the level of PSA overtime. For patients over 50, it is highly advisable to undergo routine screening for PSA.

AST and ALT

The aminotransferases (AST and ALT) are enzymes found in the liver and muscular tissues. AST is associated with muscle (including the heart muscle) or liver injuries. On the hand, ALT is more specific for liver injury. In this chart we present data on the levels of AST and ALT over 15 years. Note how both rise and fall parallel to each other indicating, at least in this patient, that the source of "injury" is the same, most likely the liver.

Free T4 and TSH Levels in the same patient over time

Despite the fact that Free T4 levels are normal, the levels of TSH are borderline normal. The chart represents data on the same patient (multi-nodular goiter) taken over many months.

Total Cholesterol vs. HDL and LDL

This chart represents data on total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL from the same male patient (data collected since 1994; about 187 months). It is interesting to note that as the total cholesterol concentration increased the LDL level also increased. The HDL level remained about the same regardless of the total cholesterol concentration.

Hemoglobin vs. Number of Red Blood Cells

The erythrocytes (red blood cells) carry a pigment known as hemoglobin. This substance binds to both carbon dioxide and oxygen in a reversible manner, allowing the "breathing" process to function. Thus, it is logical to note that as the number of red blood cells rises the concentration of hemoglobin in blood also increases. The chart presented in this blog is for a male patient whose level of hemoglobin and the number of erythrocytes was monitored periodically over 187 months (since 1994).

Relationship between TSH and Free T4

A negative feedback loop exists between TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) and T4 (Thyroxin). TSH is secreted by the pituitary gland and its secretion by this gland is in turn regulated by the hypothalamus. The function of TSH is to stimulate the secretion of T4 by the thyroid gland. When the level of T4 rises in the blood, the level of TSH drops--a negative feedback process. The chart presented in this blog is for a male patient who suffers from a multi-nodular goiter (an enlargement in the thyroid gland). The level of TSH versus Free T4 in the blood was measured over a period of 187 months (since 1994).

Snow Storm over Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina

A very intense snow storm hit our area today where it blanketed the mountains area of North Carolina with many inches of snow and dumped freezing rain and snow over the central North Carolina. Rain dominated over the eastern coast of the state. Temperatures dropped below freezing and will continue until tomorrow. No significant accumulation of snow in the greater Raleigh area, however more snow is detected toward the North and the West. This year winter arrived earlier than usual.

Vitamin D and Lymphoma

A recent study from Mayo Clinic showed that patients with lymphoma had a worse prognosis if their Vitamin D level was below normal. Acceptable levels for Vitamin D are in the range of 32 to 100 ng/mL.

Bacteria in Cigarettes

Investigators from the University of Maryland have discovered that cigarettes harbor many pathogenic bacteria. Their study suggests that smokers may risk attracting potential infections from breathing the cigarette smoke.

Constipation

Constipation may be due to not drinking enough water or not eating high enough fiber in the diet. Although various drugs and disease states may cause constipation, however most people suffer from this condition because of inadequate food consumption habits. Recent studies have also shown that Parkinson's disease patients are twice as likely to suffer from constipation than the rest of the population. And medical investigators believe that this condition may be an "early sign" for Parkinson' disease.

HDL Role in Cardiovascular Events

It is widely accepted among medical scientists that an increase in the blood level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) and a decrease in the blood level of low density lipoprotein (LDL) leads to lower risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack. Most physicians aim for their patients to have HDL level of a least 40 mg/dL and for LDL not to exceed 99 mg/dL. Recent studies have shown that a combination therapy of torcetrapib and atorvastatin has done just that, lowering in LDL and an increase in HDL. However, the results from these studies have also revealed an increase in cardiovascular events instead of a decrease. The mechanism of action of torcetrapib is inhibition of the activity of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP). By this mechanism HDL level is elevated, while the statin drug decreases LDL level. Interestingly, a recent study from Boston University showed that CETP blood level is inversely associated with morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular events. One would wonder if the current medical wisdom concerning HDL and LDL is accurate or correct; for now these studies challenge the currently acceptable notion that a high HDL level and a low LDL level are clinically desirable.

Treatment Options of Barrett's Disease at Mayo Clinic

Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's syndrome is a condition whereas the natural columnar epithelium of the esophagus is replaced by metaplastic cells. The metaplastic cells may become dysplastic and cancerous in some people. Various treatments for this condition are available in major health centers such as Mayo Clinic. This condition may be helped by drinking plentiful of clean water daily, weight loss, eating smaller meal portions, avoidance of acidic drinks such as cola beverages and citrus juices, avoidance of drinking black tea and coffee, avoidance of fatty foods, avoidance of spicy foods, eating dinner early enough and not going to bed for at least three hours after eating a meal, not wearing tight clothes, and elevation of the head of the bed. Natural remedies for this condition include DGL licorice, Selaginella (Selaginellae doederleinii), oldenlandia (herba hedyotidis), Aloe vera juice, Marshmallow, Bladderwrack, antioxidants, and Slippery Elm. Consult a doctor and a naturophatic physician to guide you through these treatment options.

Unusual Behavior

There are so many stories out there that make the brain spins. Often no explanation can be found to certain phenomena. This could be due to multiple factors. One obvious factor is the lack of knowledge. I do not think that anything occurs on this planet cannot be explained. The only reason we think it is "supernatural" is the fact we are still not developed enough to understand it. If you told someone who lives during the 16th century, for example, that it is possible to show people living on the other side of the town inside a box (nowadays we call it TV), that person would think that there is something wrong with your mind. Likewise, phenomena that we observe today and we cannot explain them, we just have to wait until someone comes up with an answer. God created man on his own image. We, therefore, will learn how to explain everything---one day.

Water Behavior

Water is essential for life on this planet. All living organisms depend on it. Many of these organisms live it. Water is liquid above zero degree celsius. As the temperature of water is reduced, water volume shrinks accordingly until the temperature reaches four degree celsius (refrigerator temperature). If the temperature of water drops further toward zero degree Celsius, the volume of water begins to expand rather than contract. This expansion in volume reaches its maximum at zero degree Celsius (the freezing point for water at one atmospheric pressure.) Not only the volume of frozen water (ice) is larger than liquid water, but also the density of ice is less than that of liquid water, thus ice floats on the surface of its liquid. Perhaps this is why this planet could support life on it. Can you imagine if lakes and rivers began to freeze and the frozen mass remains at the bottom of the liquid. All creatures in that river would be entrapped by the ice and eventually die. The good Lord has created Earth and everything on it to live harmoniously on it. That is why it is important for us to protect this planet the way God has given it to us. That is why it is important to consider issues like Global Warming. When water molecules are held together in tight bounds (hydrogen bounds), and water is frozen, because of this hydrogen bounding the volume of ice is much larger than that of liquid water. If you visit the Charles River in Boston, Massachusetts during winter, you would find it frozen (only on its surface). However, underneath that frozen superficial layer of water, life goes on.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

Climate Debate

Some claim that "global warming" is just a big hoax. Others believe that it is just a simple fact, the Earth is warming rapidly and we, humans, are contributing to this. This debate is found in scientific journals related to this topic. The debate does not belong to radio talk shows nor to politicians. The last time I reviewed the "Scientific Method", radio talk shows and politicians were not part of the process. As any other science, there are always some arguments among scientists on how to interpret the data. This issue whether it is true or not is independent of political affiliation, religious belief, or opinion. The final answer rests with how the data are interpreted correctly based on scientific acceptable designs and procedures. It really does not matter how anyone feels about it. This issue belongs to science, and the rest of us should only listen.

Sunday's Flowers

Houses

In the US most houses have a significant area surrounding the actual house for landscaping and/or gardening. This area often contains trees for shading during the hot summer month. It also keeps the area looks "natural". Plants are the lungs of this planet. We all can live harmoniously with them. If you plan to build a house, consider leaving as much of the natural habitat as possible. It is the right thing to do.

Killing Asian Carp

On December 2, 2009 authorities in Chicago, Illinois have ordered poisoning Asian Carp fish that are on their way to Lake Michigan. The poison was identified as "rotenone", a natural substance found in the root and stems of the plant Lonchocarpus nicou. It is not highly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and thus it has limited, but important, toxicity to human. This natural poison is commonly used to kill fish, especially by the indigenous people. A potential side effect on human is the development of symptoms mimicking Parkinson's disease.

It is extremely wise to conduct epidemiological studies in the area and surrounding areas of Sanitary and Ship Canal before and after the dumping of rotenone. In particular, health authorities should focus on Parkinson's disease-like symptoms in this population.

Kava kava

Kava is an herb for anxiety. Although Ginkgo and St. John's Wort can be used for the management of anxiety symptoms, kava is a superior herb with this respect. Unfortunately, in the Western world kava has been associated with a severe form of liver damage. Many European countries have banned kava from their markets, and US FDA has placed several public warnings concerning its use. It is interesting to note that the use of kava tea by its native islanders has not been associated with liver damage. Perhaps the way Westerners process this herb into commercial products, the amount ingested, and the frequency of taking it all contribute to this toxicity.

Vitacost.com Blog

Information and dietary supplement products

Wart Removal

The sap from dandelion stems when applied fresh on warts can be effective in reducing their size. As always, wart removal may take some time, perhaps several weeks of repeated applications. Another gentle treatment is to bandage the wart with a piece of banana peels or with a pineapple fresh fruit.

Happy Thanksgiving America

Cranberry

Cranberry is a delicious side dish often served during Thanksgiving dinner. Cranberry is known to help with urinary tract infections. Its unsweetened juice (or sweetened with stevia) enhances the clearance of bacteria via urination. Its mechanism of action includes inhibiting the bacteria from attaching itself to the bladder's wall, thus effectively eliminating it in urine.

Herbevores and Carnivores

The new generation of Japan's males are defining themselves in a new trend known as "Herbevores". About 60% of young Japanese males identify themselves in this category. "Herbevores" are young men who are heterosexuals, however they have no interest in pursuing a relationship with a female. They claim they would be interested in dating only if a female initiates the invitation. This could be dangerous to the Japanese society in general as the birth rate in Japan is one of the lowest worldwide. It is highly probable that "Herbevores" would reach the US shores soon. Long gone the Hippies; welcome the "Herbevores" and their opposite, of course, the "Carnivores."

It is almost Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day in the US. One holiday that everybody celebrates. In it, we thank the Almighty for his goodness on us. We thank God for our friends and families. We thank him for raining on us his gifts. Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone.

The Party Line's Reasoning

I am often turned-off when I hear arguments along the party lines. Democrats or Republicans are guilty of that. Health care issues are neither Republican nor Democratic; they are American issues. Do not give me the party line when it comes to health care issues. This probably would surprise you, especially after you read some of my blogs. I am independent/unaffiliated. Yes, I am not a Democrat nor a Republican, and my party line is American. I believe the Congress is on the right track in providing a health insurance bill to the American Citizens. This would benefit all of us. Rich and poor; men or women; adults or kids; Republicans or Democrats. The Obama's Administration is on the right track in fixing the health system. My prayers are for them to succeed.

Bugs

The term "a computer bug" was originally framed by the US Navy when they discovered a real bug inside their computers that caused problems with the computer functioning.

H1N1 Vaccine: Unacceptable Adverse Events

The Canadian government announced today the withdrawal of thousands of H1N1 vaccine units from its market citing numerous adverse events that are beyond "norm". Meanwhile, four patients at Duke Hospital (Durham, NC) died today from complications due to "resistant" H1N1 infections.

Finaly Economical Recovery is a Reality

Today, November 16, 2009, my own micro-economy has reached its peak that of December 2007. It took about two years to get to this point. However, my micro-economy is still down due to what I have lost since January 2008. The recovery is on its way, thanks to the Obama's administration that placed the right steps forward. Thank you President Obama. WE LOVE YOU.

Sure Sir

Assuring people that you have listened to them is a nice thing to do. It is the right thing to do. Be polite. Do not argue with people. No one needs the wrong attitude. This world need more people who would work with each other. Do not contribute to the negative energy that some people like to dissipate around them. Be positive. Contribute and help in your community. And, yes sir, you would be loved by everyone.

College Exams

For every course taken in college, there is at least one exam given during the semester. The majority of college students do not want to study. They just want to be informed. Being informed and knowing the subject are really two totally different things. When asked how come you did not do well on the exam, the answer often stated "I knew it, but I could not answer the exam's questions." Some students claim they studied and knew the material very well; it is just the exam they cannot do. Those students are in state of denial. They are too proud to admit it that they did not know it, or they are just plain lying to the professor. Unfortunately, professors know very well whether a student have studied or not. On every exams they are questions known in the academic community as "gimmies." Those students who miss the "gimmies" are without any doubt did not even touch the material. Another problem faces academia is the notion that studying the night before the exam is plenty of time to succeed in a course. This is another fallacy that some college students live by. These are the C and D students. Most of those students will end up nowhere in their career. Do not be one them. Study hard and succeed in life. Believe me you would be much happier the rest of your life.

Arguments

For each argument there are two parties. Many of those arguments are due to differing point of views. These point of views are perhaps both correct from the point of view of the beholder. Arguments are often resolved by the involvement of a third party who does not have a stake in the conflict. For some arguments, a resolution is not possible because the parties have reached a point of unreconciled difference. Unless one of the parties is willing to give up on that point, the parties would never reconcile. Arguments are often created to win some ground in a conflict. The source of the argument may not be clear to everybody. Some may argue without knowing all the facts needed to win, so they loose. Others may argue knowing that a point of view is inherently wrong, but they introduce it to "muddy the water' or as a "smoke screen." Very few people live to have conflicts in their life. Those are the exceptions to the rule. The rule is most people try to avoid arguments as much as they can. Unresolved issues do not just go away; they mutate. Try to resolve your arguments with your neighbor as long as you are still talking to each other. Otherwise, the consequences may be severer. Imagine a world without arguments. All people live in perfect peace. All have their own deserved shares in their lives. no poverty, no sin, no bad things, every body loves everyone else. Imagine that would be possible. Do not call me a dreamer; Jesus did imagine a world like that and called each one of us to participate in it. If Jesus could imagine a world like that, I believe it is going to happen one day. Call me a believer.

Migraine Headache: A Way For Relieving It

One way to relieve a migraine headache attack according to naturopathy is to place a cold press on the forehead and immerse the feet in warm water while drinking a hot Feverfew tea.

Too much faith in the medical establishment

It is unfortunate, but true. On a daily basis, the medical establishment reaches the same conclusion for thousands of patients, "we cannot help you any more." It is sad, but true. And, at the same time, they spend so little on preventing disease. The National Institutes of Health has its priority backward; instead of spending 99% of the budget for finding "cures", devote just a little bit more on prevention. It is just a thought!

The Placebo Effect

Some say that alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) is based on a placebo effect, the same one seen after someone takes a sugar pill. I wonder how many pharmaceutical drugs have this effect? Psychiatric medical journals, for example, state that up to 50% of the effect seen with psychiatric drugs are due to a placebo effect. Many others, including those used for heart health, carry this wonderful placebo effects The interesting thing about placebo is that it does improve health. Although the exact mechanism of action remains illusive, one wonders if it is related to the ability of everyone of us to stimulate his own defense mechanisms if "allowed" to do so. The current pharmaceutical industry does not produce "pro-health" drugs. All they produce are the "anti" medications. We have the antibiotics, the anti-asthmatics, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-cancer medications, etc. Whereas the Western style medicine deals with after the fact events (after the diseases has taken hold on the person), the CAM therapies act as preventive measures to stop disease from developing. CAM stimulates the immune system to fight bacterial and viral infections; it augments the immune system to fight cancer; it acts as a stress-reducing agent; it supplements the diet with needed nutrition; etc. And, if these activities are in part due to a placebo effect, be it. The end result is the same, making people feel and live better. Placebo gazebo, who cares. Focus on the end results, because there is the reality; anything else is a fantasy.

November 11 is My Anniversary

November 11th is the date of one of my anniversaries. I love November 11.

Happy Veterans' Day

Probability Calculations

Assume that the probability of having a male birth is 0.50 per birth. In a hospital, 10 mothers are expecting this month to give birth. Estimate the probability that all 10 births are males.

Answer: 0.0009765 or 0.09765%.

What is the probability that none of the babies is a male?

Answer: 0.0009765 or 0.09765%.

Health Care Bill: HR3962: An Audio of the Bill

Tea Leaves

The reason conservatives can find a place to rally is because not too many people agree with their point of view. Let's face it, if few hundreds gather over "tea leaves" and they shout loud encouraging each others their twisted point of view on things, this does not mean they are right. The rest of us who agree with the national health care, agree with the government on its attempt to control down falling economy, support the Congress in its effort to bring to life what they promised us during the campaign, are the silent majority. My friends, there is no single place big enough for us to gather. It is just not possible. We are the Citizens of the United States of America. Only America can house us; our mother land, our country, this beautiful place we call America. May God bless the United States of America.

Preventive Medicine

Western medicine is hopeless when it comes to preventive care. They tell us to get check-ups once a year. And, then? What else should one do to prevent getting sick so we do not have to see them again other than the "check-ups"? To my knowledge, this is unknown in our current health care. Some may say to you eat the right foods, breath clean air, keep a healthy attitude, smile a lot, drink clean fresh water, etc. However, we all know that! The problem they do not know how this can be accomplished. I am a great fan of preventive health. It is time for our health care system to create programs to teach and keep people healthy. As the saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure."

Economy is one person at a time

The news are filled with stories telling us that the economy is re-bouncing. I just do not see it. Millions of Americans are still unemployed, the funds in retirement accounts remain well below December 2007 level, and it is still taking too long to sell a house. The quarter ended on September 30 delivered some economical growth. But October was a disaster. I am not preaching the gloom and doom, but rather reality. Perhaps something is missing in the equations the economists in Washington, D.C. are using. They are not including the "human factor" in them.

The power of a single word

"No single word can more perfectly describe the God we adore and the faith we practice than the tiny yet empowering word, love." Pope John Paul, II

Economy 101

Perhaps most US citizens do not have a real grasp on the national economy. After all, very few of us can relate to million, billion, or trillion of dollars. Most of us, however, can understand very quickly the rise in the price of gas. Today it is $2.65/gallon, yesterday it was $2.55/gallon, and so on. If the milk goes up a quarter per gallon, most families in the US "feel the pain." The problem with our current environment is that millionaires are running the show and they have no clue what the average person is going through. While they worry about a million here and a trillion there, we worry about a 50 cents here and a dollar there. The gap between the average citizen and the Congress of the United States is so wide and remote s that the average citizen feels detached from Washington, D.C. and feels isolated. The Congress has been debating the healthcare issue to death. It wont be implemented until 2013. By then another group of Congressmen will be in charge and they will undo everything this Congress is trying to do. Why wait until 2013? If you wait until then, please do not bother in voting for it. You are giving us a false hope that we the people do not believe it will be real. Either enforce this healthcare bill immediately or forget about it. I have heard conservatives on the radio stating that it does not matter what the Congress is going to do now, the future "conservative" Congress will undo anything this Congress has voted for. So here you have it. Oh yes, I need to go to the store to buy a loaf of bread. I hope the price has not jumped from $0.99 to $1.05. I guess I will have to decide to buy it now or forget about it. "A cent here and a cent there adds up to real money."

Prostate Specific Antigen Velocity (PSAV)

Current recommendation is that if a patient PSA velocity is high this patient must be evaluated for prostate cancer via biopsy. A recent study suggests that a high velocity for PSA should focus on evaluating the patient for prostatitis before sending him off to do biopsy. The results from this study suggests that PSA velocity adds very little predictive value for prostate cancer.

Sleep Deprivation: Blood Enzymes

Sleep deprivation is common in the elderly due to insomnia. Medical scientists reported recently that the enzyme PDE4 was elevated in blood and another, cAMP, was reduced in people who suffer from sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can affect memory and ability to concentrate. In this study, a drug (Rolipram) given to mice that reduced PDE4 resulted in a reversal on the ability of mice to memorize. Unfortunately, Rolipram is an experimental drug.

Enzyme Test for Heart Attack

Recent research points out that a simple blood test for an enzyme known as C-reactive protein (CRP) can be a life saver. Scientists believe that a high blood level of this enzyme could predict heart attack (and even death from heart attack). Unfortunately, this test is not predictive for stroke, according to the scientific report.

H1N1 Virus: A National Emergency

The President of the United States declared today that the H1N1 viral infection is now a national emergency. The United States is on its way to immunize all its citizens against the virus.

Medical School Interview: Tips to Succeed & Become a Doctor

As a part of medical school application in the United States, applicants must fill out a form, pay a fee, pass an entrance exam, submit their academic transcripts, submit letters of reference, and get INTERVIEWED. Perhaps the interview is the hardest part of the application process and it does require good personality. During the interview, applicants should expect questions like:
1. Why do you want to become a doctor?
2. Why not other health fields, such as pharmacy or dentistry?
3. Tell me about yourself?
4. What was the latest book you have read?
5. What type of sports do you enjoy or play?
6. What are your hobbies?
7. Have you volunteered in a hospital or a clinic?
8. Have you shadowed a physician to see their daily activity?
9. Why do you want to enroll in our school and not others?
10. Who is sponsoring you? Tell me more about your funding?
11. Tell us which courses you have enjoyed the most in college? Which courses you hated the most?
12. Do you like working with sick people?
13. How would you react if a patient attacks you verbally in the examination room?
14. Tell us about a tough decision you had to make, and how did you solve it?
15. Are you naturally a person who like to complain too much?
16. How do you handle stress in general?
17. Who was your favorite teacher in high school? In college? In graduate school? And, Why was he/she your favorite instructor?
18. Tell us more about yourself? Your family? Where you were born?

The above questions were just a sample of what one would expect from an Admission Committee at the Medical School. Of course most "intelligent" persons would prepare themselves in advance, practice a lot, and "fake" it if needed. After all, it is medical school. What a couple of lies would do? No one would be harmed! And, perhaps no one would ever know. If you think this does not happen routinely in medical schools you are greatly mistaken. You might wonder what evidence do I have to prove that. Well, according to latest government statistics 40% of currently practicing physicians refuse to accept Medicaid patients. That is 4 out of 10 doctors refuse to heal patients that they promised to do and swore to do during the interview process. I could see Hippocrates rolling over in his grave right now.

Intelligence and Success

The IQ test is perhaps the most known test for measuring intelligence. The average value is 100 points and people who score above 140 are considered geniuses. But, are all geniuses successful in life? The answer is clearly no. While good intelligence may lead to decent life, however it does not guarantee becoming rich or discovering a new invention. For that one needs to be in the right time at the right place. Intelligent people placed in a "fertile" environment and who have the will to make something out of it will succeed. Otherwise, they will remain ordinary folks as far as their life goes.

Confirmed Influenza Cases

Among the 4,958 hospitalized cases of confirmed influenza, 292 died from it between the period of August 30 to October 10 of this year, according to the CDC.

Not All Swine Flu Vaccines are the Same!

According to the World Health Organization vaccines for H1N1 virus (the Swine flu) contains adjuvants when sold outside the United States. Vaccines given within the United States territory do not contain adjuvants.

Healthy People and H1N1

According to the CDC, healthy people can become seriously sick after catching H1N1 virus (the Swine flu). The report indicates that 45% of those needed hospitalization because of this infection were otherwise healthy individuals.

Medical Donations: H1N1 Vaccine

Many of the third world countries cannot afford Swine Flu vaccination program to their citizens. They rely heavily on donations from wealthier countries, such as the United States, according to World Health Organization.

Medical Errors in New Jersey

Reports from 2007 stated that the 72-hospital State system had approximately 9,400 medical errors ranging from surgical events to infections to internal organ injuries.

West Nile Virus in Washington State

Since the beginning of this year, 32 reported West Nile viral infections were found in Washington State. The first death due to this infection occurred on September 19 where one 71 woman died from this viral infection.

Lung Embolism and Swine Flu

Clinical reports indicate that severe cases of swine flu infection may result in blog clots in the lung.

10/13/2009 H1N1 Public Vaccination Began

The United States initiated a vaccination program to its citizens against the Swine Flu virus infection on October 13, 2009. For most cases, children under 10 years old will need two vaccinations, whereas adults will be vaccinated once.

Bombarding the Moon

The United States claimed today that it sent a controlled rocket to hit the surface of the moon. The purpose of the mission was to study the composition of the material on the surface of the moon, and whether water exists on the moon. Unfortunately, despite prior publicity from NASA that the "explosion" would be seen by ordinary telescopes, the image broadcasted from NASA did not show anything. NASA claimed that the mission was successful.

President Barack Obama Wins the Nobel Prize for Peace

President Barack Obama, president of the United States, won today the Nobel prize for peace. As a community leader and organizer, Mr. Obama brought peace and comfort to many in Chicago neighborhoods. His political philosophy that everyone should play a part in important decisions, including those who oppose his views, won the President peaceful and civilized dialogues. President Obama is a good man all over. He is in peace with himself, and his positive energy shines wherever he goes. He has brought back the world together and reached out to all countries for peaceful relationship with the US. As an American I am so proud of Mr. Obama winning today the Nobel Prize for peace. It is a great and well-deserved honor . CONGRATULATIONS Mr. the President.

Direct-to-Consumer Ads Should be Banned

Since the US FDA has relaxed its rules governing drug advertisements, the amount of money spent on these ads by the pharmaceutical companies has increased tremendously. Of course, the results are patients "demanding" a specific treatment from their doctors. Every time I listen to the side effects, that are usually said just before another "benign" final statement, make my stomach turns. Can you imagine how gullible the people are? Just some pretty faces, well-known actors, or some seemingly "everyday people" making the pitch for the drug does not mean everybody needs these drugs. Even physicians fall prey to these ads, after all they watch TV too! Just get rid of them; the public does not want them.

When life treat you like a storm

Occasions in life are there to entertain us, to make us happy (or sad), to make us wonder about life, but mostly they are there to surprise us. All great thinkers say the same thing "do not worry about tomorrow, focus on the moment." We plan for tomorrow, but most plans never reach their ends. We dream about tomorrow, but most dreams are never fulfilled. We worry about tomorrow, but most worries never happen. We think we can control tomorrow, but tomorrow has a mind of its own. Accidents happen daily, but none of them is planned, otherwise they would not be "accidents." Accidents are the way tomorrow wins. Accidents are the way tomorrow tells us we are not in control. Accidents are the way tomorrow comes and goes without our control. When life throws at you a heavy loaded basketball, catch it if you can, avoided it if you can, or let it hit you. Then take that basketball and learn how to shoot it straight into the basket, and score. Yes we can win against tomorrow if we just can survive today.

Don't Bother the Cat...Unless You Are A Dog

Cats are extremely friendly when they want something from you. They are fiercely independent animals. God be with you if you are a mouse. However, more power to you if you are a dog. Cats sleep a lot, play a lot, and ignore a lot. They are cute, but intensely deadly if you are an insect. The old story of cats and dogs never ends. They will always be cats and dogs fighting. It just seems that cats win all the time. Dogs think they are the superior species, until they meet a cat. Cats think they are docile species, until they meet a dog. Once upon a time, there was a cat called "Shoushieh." She was my sister's cat when my sister was growing up. Shoushieh was an extremely intelligent cat. She used to wait at the window waiting for my sister to come home from school. The moment she saw her she would jump and open the door for her. Yes, she did open doors. She used to "speak" to my sister, and I could swear that my sister understood her. Shoushieh was my sister's best friend. She slept with her in the same bed. Shoushieh and my sister were one. When Shoushieh passed away, my sister could not eat or drink for a whole week. There was no cat similar to Shoushieh to my sister and never ever will be one. Shoushieh died about 35 years ago. I was visiting my sister last spring and stayed with her a couple of days. During my visit my sister was showing me old photo albums of us when we were growing up. And there was tucked between Shoushieh's pictures one piece of her hair. That album still sleeps with my sister up until now every night.

Higher Risk for Attracting H1N1--A Link to Seasonable Flu Vaccine: A Canadian Study

A Canadian study has suggested that people who received the seasonable flu vaccine has double the risk for attracting the H1N1 virus.

Canadian Study: H1N1 data

A study from Canada indicated that people who received regular seasonable flu vaccine have an increased risk of attracting H1N1 virus. In this study, patients who were vaccinated against the seasonable flu virus had doubled their risk of contracting the swine flu. However, like everything else in science and medicine, a single study on its own cannot prove anything unless it is collaborated by other studies.

National Health Care of Germany

Did you know that in Germany their National Health Care covers alternative and complementary medicine? It even covers visits to the spa.

National Health Reform Bill

The United States Congress is now considering a health care coverage for everybody in the country. This is a dream that about to become true, thanks to President Obama. The President has already outlined in many of his speeches some of the reasons for his health care initiatives. He emphasized that the national health reform would provide 1) protection to all the citizens from getting bankrupt due catastrophic illnesses, 2) forcing the health insurance company to accept everyone regardless of previous medical conditions, 3) placing no limit on the amount of coverage a person will receive, 4) the cost of medical care would not add to the national deficit. This plan, if the Congress approves it, will become the best thing ever happened to this nation since medicare. Thank You President Obama. WE LOVE YOU.

Anti-inflammatory herbs

Anti-inflammatory herbs are also known among herbalists as "antiphlogistics."

Why is it important that everybody should be covered by the National Healthcare Initiatives?

As a nation, each one of us contributes his/her own share to the health crisis our nation faces today. A single infection can spread to many hundreds and thousands, regardless whether they are covered by a health insurance or not. Those who are not covered by a health insurance, the rest of us have to handle their cost. However, if they are obliged to participate like the rest of us, then they will pay their share of cost. Whether undocumented aliens will be covered, the President stated they would not, and I believe him. (President Obama is the most honest person ever.) I hope the Congress will change their mind on this issue. Coverage for undocumented aliens in the United States is the right thing to do by the Congress. Otherwise, the rest of us will still share their cost of health care. I think they need to contribute to this coverage and be treated humanly. After all, this is the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Wake up people.

Revised Guidelines on Anti-Viral Medications from the CDC

.:: Home Of Alternative Medicine ::.: Detoxify your body, prevent cancer with green tea

.:: Home Of Alternative Medicine ::.: Detoxify your body, prevent cancer with green tea

Be Green

Information on green businesses and their products, and much more.

Xenophobia

In Raleigh, NC there is a talk radio station that is 99.99% conservative. One of the hosts in the afternoon is a terminal case of neo-conservatism, fear-mongering, false rumor-spreading individual. Also, he is xenophobic. His hatred to any person who is not male and white like himself is obvious. I cannot believe that in 2009 a radio station tolerates someone like him. His xenophobia nowadays is directed toward undocumented aliens, an easy target for a self-righteous personality like his. He called them "illegal aliens", and on his show he attracts all xenophobics like himself. These people live on a different planet, in a different world, and in a state of denial. They still live in the 1960s of America, they still hate the same way the people in 1960s hated, they still discriminate the same way the people of 1960s discriminated. I call on this radio station to either correct his views or ask him to leave. The people of Raleigh are fed-up of his hate-speech.

Anodynes vs. Analgesics

These two terms are often confused by practitioners. Anodynes are pain relievers applied externally, whereas analgesics are herbs used for the relief of pain taken internally.

Help others this Sunday

Consider sponsoring a child in needs:

http://www.cfcausa.org/

Happy Sunday!

Herbal Tonics

Tonics are botanicals that strengthen the entire body functions. For example, heart tonics (Motherwort) improve the heart function, whereas nerve tonics (lobelia and Hops) strengthen the nerve system. Other famous tonics are ginseng, sage, and red raspberry.

Saponins

Saponins are naturally occurring substances in plants. Soybeans, for example, contain a significant amount of saponins. Saponins are glycosides and may be classified as steroidal or tri-terpenoid. The steroidal saponins mimic the female sex hormones whereas the tri-terpenoids act similar to the adrenal hormones.

The Rhomboids

These muscles are located underneath the trapezius muscles. There are a couple of these muscles minor and major. They originate from C7 - T5 vertebrae. Their insertion points are found along the medial border of the scapula. The Rhomboids are important for scapula movements (downward rotation, retraction, and elevation).

The Trapezius

The Trapezius muscle (upper, middle, and lower) They originate from occipital bone and C7-T12 vertebrae. They insert into the acromion process, the spine of the scapula, and the lateral clavicle. Their main function in the back involves the movement of the scapula. The upper trapezius also extends the head.

E-mail Solicitations--Fraud

I guess many of you have heard of fraud e-mail solicitations. They try to get information on you so that they steal your identity. Here are few examples of what I have received recently:

"PLEASE CALL ME AND GET BACK TO ME ON EMAIL: 00226-71-19-15-57 FROM THE DESK OF ALLAUDDIN MUHAMADADAUDIT/REMITTANCE DEPARTMENT OFAFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK (ADB)OUAGADOUGOU BURKINA FASOPHONE: 00226-71-19-15-57 Please for security reason you can contact me on my privateEmail Address; http://us.mc1122.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=mmuhamadad1@gmail.com DEAR FRIEND (CONFIDENTIAL) I KNOW THAT THIS EMAIL WILL BE A BIG SURPRISE TO YOU, BUT IWANT YOU TO CALM DOWN AND READ VERY CAREFULLY. I HAVE A BUSINESS WHICH WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO BOTH OF US. THE AMOUNTOF MONEY INVOLVED IS ($ 15,200:000:00 FITEEN MILLION TWOHUNDRED THOUSAND US DOLLARS) WHICH I WANT TO TRANSFER OUTOF THE COUNTRY TO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT, ALL TO MY FINANCIAL BENEFIT AND YOURS TOO. AND ALSO TO TAKE MY WIFE ABROAD FORTREATMENT OF LIVER DAMAGE. THIS MONEY IS OWNED BY A MAN CALLED JIN SUN, A BUSINESSCOMMERCIALIST I WEST-AFRICAN REGIONS. HE HAS BEEN DEAD SINCESIX YEARS AGO AND SINCE THEN, NO CLAIM HAS BEEN PLACED ONHIS BANK ACCOUNT BALANCE. WANT TO TRANSFER THIS MONEY OUT OF THE COUNTRY BUT SUCH FUND CANNOT BE TRANSFERRED WITHOUT ANEXT OF KIN ATTACHED TO THE FUND. THE FUND COULD BE TRANSFERRED IN THESE WAY; YOU SHALLPRESENT YOURSELF AS A BUSINESS ASSOCIATE TO THE DECEASEDPERSON[JIN SUN] AS DETAILS SHALL BE THAT YOU ARE THECARE-TAKER BUSINES ASSOCIATE TO MR. JIN SUN AND HISPROPERTIES. I SHALL MAKE AVAILABLE TO YOU MATERIALS AND INFORMATIONWITH WHICH A SUCCESSFUL CLAIM SHALL BE PLACED ON THE FUND. ISHALL ALSO BE YOUR GUIDIANCE AND INSTRUCTOR THROUGHOUT THEDURATION OF THIS TRANSACTION SO AS TO ENSURE A SWIFT ANDSURE TRANSFER OF THE FUND TO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT. AS TO YOUR BENEFITS, YOU SHALL BE ENTITLED TO 40% OF THIS FUND FOR YOURCO-OPERATION IN THIS TRANSACTION WHILE 5% WILL BE SET ASIDEFOR EXPENCES INCURED DURING THE COURSE OF THIS TRANSACTION. SO IF YOU ARE INTRESTED, SEND A REPLY TO ME IMMEDIATELY ANDIN YOUR REPLY PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR [PRIVATE PHONE AND YOURFAX NUMBERS] URGENCY HASTO BE IMPLIED AND THIS BUSINESS MUSTSTRICTLY BE A DEAL BETWEEN BOTH OF US. WAITING FOR YOUR URGENT RESPONSE SO THAT I CAN MOVE AHEADAND GIVE YOU THE INDEPT DETAILS CONCERNING THIS TRANSACTIONAND ALSO THE STEPS TO TAKE FOR A SMOOTH TRANSFER OF THE FUNDINTO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT. Please for security reason you can contact me on my privateEmail Address; http://us.mc1122.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=mmuhamadad1@gmail.com BEST REGARDS,ALLAUDDIN MUHAMADAD"

And here another one:

"From The Desk of Mr mohamed musafa
The Auditing And Accounting ManagerAfrican Development Bank (ADB)Ouagadougou-Burkina Faso.
Telephone 00226 78 60 35 53 Dear Sir/Madam I sincerely ask for forgiveness for I know this may seem like a complete intrusion to your privacy but right about now this is my option of communication. This mail might come to you as a surprise and the temptation to ignore it as unserious could come into your mind; but please consider it a divine wish and accept it with a deep sense of humility. I am aware that this is certainly an unconventional approach to starting a relationship.
I am Mr. mohamed musafa, the personal account officer to the great late diseased who has an account in one of our banks here in Burkina Faso . The account was opened in 2001 and he died in 2004 without a written or oral WILL and since 2004 nobody has operated on this account again hence the money is floating and if I do not remit this money out urgently it will be forfeited for nothing and Government of Burkina Faso will confiscate the funds for their personal use which I personally don't want such incident to happen being that this is a great opportunity for me. My contact is for you to please assist me to transfer the fund ($10.6000.00 USD) Ten Million Six Hundred Thousand United State Dollars from a Cooperate Bank here in Burkina Faso to an overseas account. First, I must solicit your strictest confidence in this transaction. This is by virtue of its nature as being utterly confidential. I am sure and have confidence of your ability and reliability to prosecute a transaction of this great magnitude. I solicit your assistance to enable us transfer the said amount into your safe account for onward investment. You can either provide us with an existing account or to set up a new Bank account immediately to receive this money, even an empty a/c can serve to receive this money, as long as you will remain honest to me till the end of this important business trusting in you and believing that you will never let me down either now or in future because this business is my life. The owner of this account is a foreigner and no other person knows about this account or anything concerning it, the account has no other beneficiary and until his death he was the manager of the company. My investigation through the National immigration department & Ministries here proved to me as well that he was single as at the time of his entry into the Republic of Burkina Faso . As a matter of fact, I have decided to transfer this fund abroad for investment and also to use my own share of the fund to take my wife to abroad for liver damage treatment. Your assistance as a foreigner is necessary because the management of the bank will welcome any foreigner who has correct information to this account which I will give to you immediately, if you are interested to do this business with me. There is no risk in this business. With my position here in the bank the money can be transferred to any account you can provide with assurance that this money will be intact pending our physical arrival in your country for sharing. Upon successful transfer without any disappointment from your side, I am only contacting you as a foreigner because this money cannot be approved to a local person here, but can only be approved to any foreigner who has the correct information of the account, which I will provide for you. So you should provide me with your correct account details where you will like the fund to be transferred to, or you can set up a new account for the transfer even an empty account is ok. At the conclusion of the transfer you will take 40%, 10% will be for any expenses both parties incurred in the process of this business and the remaining 50% will be for me. As soon as I hear from you and upon your strong assurance that you will not let me down once the fund goes into your account I will then send you the Text of application form which you will fill with your banking information and send to my bank here for immediate transfer of the fund to your account. If you are interested, please forward the following information as below: {1} Your Name/company's name and full address, {2} Bank Name:............ {3} Bank Address...{4} Account No:.........{5} Swift Code...{if any}{6} Account Holder's Name: ..........{7} your telephone Num. both Home, Office & Cell/Mobile and faxNumbers...{8} Your Occupation {9} Your Valid ID Waiting for your urgent replyBest Regards,Mr. mohamed musafa"

And yet another one:

"Dearest One,
I am Mrs Mariam Sule. a widow being that I lost my husband,my husband was a serving director of the Cocoa exporting board until his death.He was assassinated by the rebels following the political uprising, before his death he made a deposit of Eight Million USA Dollars ($8,000,000.00) here in Ouagadougou Burkina Faso in one of the Security Company,he intended to buy a Cocoa processing Machine with the fund.

I want you to help me for us to retreive this fund and transfer it to your account in your country or any safer place as you will be the beneficiary and recipient of the fund which we will use for joint investment in your country.

I have plans to do investment in your country, like real estate and industrial production. This is my reason for writing to you. Please if you are willing to assist me and my only son Boureima,indicate your interest by replying urgently.

Thanks and best regards .
Mrs Mariam Sule."

Here is an interesting one:

"ATTENTION: WINNERThis is to inform you that you have been selected for a cash prize of 800,000,00 (Eight Hundred Thousand (British Pounds) and this promotion was held in LONDON UK,The Selection was carried out through a Computer Random Selection System and your email address came out as one of the Three Lucky Winners.Contact our fiduciary agent for claims with:Agents Name: Mr.James BrownEmail:http://www.blogger.com/mc/compose?to=mr.jamesbrown_ukclaimsdepartment@live.comFill the below details"1. Name:2. Sex3. Occupation:4. Age:5. Address:6. Country of Residence:7. Telephone Number:8.Amount won:9.NationalityAnna MartinOnline Co-ordinator"

This one is laughable:

"RE -REMITTANCE OF $15.5 MDear Friend,I am Mr.TITI WALLA ,from Burkina faso in West Africa.I got your e-mailcontacts from computerised datas after my extensive search via thewebsite for trust-worthy person to bestow this transaction which isthe only hope of our survival into his or her hands.When i got youraddress,I prayed and meditated fervently over it and i commited itinto the hands of almighty that you should be the rightful person tohelp us out before I made up my decision to contact you.I am TheManager of Auditing Department of Our Bank ,Ouagadougou Burkina Faso.In my department we discovered an abandoned usd$15.5M( FifteenMillion five hundred thousand United States Dollars). In an accountthat belongs to this our foreign customer who died along with his wifeand and children in the plane crash.Since we got information about hisdeath, we have been expecting his next of kin to come over and claimhis money because we cannot release it unless somebody applies for itas the next of kin or relation to the deceased, as indicated in ourbanking guidelines but unfortunately we learnt that all his supposednext of kin or relation died alongside with him in the plane crashleaving nobody behind for the claim.It is therefore upon thisdiscovery that I decided to make this business proposals to you andrelease the money to you as next of kin or relation to the deceasedfor safety and subsequent disbursement since nobody is coming for itbecause I don't want this money to go into the bank treasury asunclaimed Bill.The banking law and guidelines here stipulates that if such moneyremains unclaimed after five years, the money will be transferred intothe bank treasury as unclaimed fund.The request of foreigner in thistransaction is necessary because our late customer was a foreigner anda Burkinabe cannot stand as next of kin to a foreigner,I agree that30% of this money will be for you as foreigner partner in respect tothe provision of a foreign account. 10% will be set aside for expensesincurred during the business and 60% would be for me , after which Ishall visit your country for disbursement according to the percentagesindicated.Therefore to enable the immediate transfer of this fund toyou as I have arranged,you will furnished me with a good receivingaccount details where the money will betransfered,your private tel andfax number for easy communication.Upon receipt of your reply, I will send to you by fax or e-mail a textof the application which you shall retype and fax to our foreignremittance manager,for easy execution of the transaction.I will notfail to bring to your notice that this transaction is 100% hitch-freeon both side. As all required arrangement have been made for thetransfer and more so all the documents backing this claim will besupplied to you after you might have applied.Please I would like you you keep this transaction confidential and asa top secret as you may wish to know that I am a senior Bank official.Forward me your full details informations below,1. Full Name:2. Your Telephone Number and Fax Number3. Your Contact Address.4.Your personal photo or id cardTrusting to hear from you immediatelyYours Sincerely,Mr.TITI WALLA
ReplyReply All
Move...Inbox"

And this one has French in it:

"
Vous êtes invité ::

BUSINESS COLLABORATION
Par votre hôte:

Sulaiman Umanru

Date:

mercredi 9 septembre 2009
Heure:

7h 00 - 8h 00 (GMT+00:00)
Rue:

My name is Mr sulaiman umanru, I'm the auditor and head of computing department in Bank of Africa Ouagadougou Burkina Faso.I have business proposal which involves about $25m, (Twenty five Million United State dollars only).And after the successful transfer, we shall share in ratio of 40% for you and 60% for me.If you be interested, please contact me through my private email (sulaiman.umanru@yahoo.fr ), so that I Will give you more information on how we would handle this project, to enable us commence on all arrangements.Thanks umanru sulaiman

Viendrez-vous ?

Répondre à cette invitation"

Okay, now you know who they are.

Therapeutic Massage: Type of Strokes

In therapeutic massage several strokes are commonly used during the session by the therapist. These are effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (tapping), friction (rubbing), vibration (jostling), and rocking (moving body sideways). Massage is known to stimulate the immune system and is an excellent way for stress relief.

Kava kava

Kava is an herb used for anxiety. This powerful herb has been linked to liver toxicity and failure reports. Several European countries has already banned the use of kava on its territories, however, the herb remains available in the US. The FDA has issued warnings on kava's potential liver toxicity, however, these warnings are not widely publicized to the public. It is not yet known the exact "source" of its toxicity; some people believe it is related to the way it is processed in the West by botanical companies. This belief stems from the fact that no reported cases of liver toxicity was found among the natives who drink kava aqueous extracts. The Western extracts are normally prepared using organic solvents and not water.

Health Care Bill

It is anticipated that by November of this year the Congress of the United States will pass a Health Care Bill to establish an organized health care system for everyone in this country. It is a dream that the late Senator Ted Kennedy fought and advocated for. I propose that the Congress name this bill "Ted Kennedy Health Care Reform Initiatives".

Fenugreek

Fenugreek powder may be used as a poultice for the treatment of external inflammations. Internally, the herb is primarily used to increase the production of breast milk. Patients who are on oral medications should avoid taking fenugreek with their medications, as the herb coats the surface of the gastrointestinal tract mucosa with mucilage that acts as a mechanical barrier for the absorption of drugs.

Jin Shin Jyutsu®

"The truth is that within each of us lies the power to cast all misery aside and to KNOW complete Peace and Oneness to BE that beautiful creation of perfect harmony to truly KNOW (Help) Myself" - Mary Burmeister

To learn more about Jin Shin Jyutsu®, visit http://jsjinc.net/

Seminars on Jin Shin Jyutsu are given by CNHP. See their schedule at http://www.cnhp.org/seminars/descriptions.php?id=66

Where was I on September 11, 2001?

I was sitting at my desk at work when one of my co-workers walked in and told me about a plane "accidentally" hit a tower in New York City. She was trembling in terror. Her voice was full of terror and fear impressions covered her face. After all, it was September 11, 2001, the day when everything changed in the United States. I still remember the days where I could walk all the way to the terminal to say good bye to my brother. I still remember the days where passing through airport security did not look like a scene from North Korea. I still remember you could go to any official Federal or State building without being asked to pass through detectors or empty your pockets out. I still remember the United States the way my father described it to me long time ago, America the Beautiful. America you still are and remain beautiful in my eyes. God Bless America.

"You Lie", said Rep. Joe Wilson of South Carolina

During a televised speech to the Congress and to the nation, President Obama addressed the nation on Wednesday concerning the upcoming debate on nationalized health care. During that speech the President was rudely interrupted by Rep. Joe Wilson of South Carolina shouting and pointing finger at the President "You Lie". The Congressman later officially apologized to the President by calling the White House. The President graciously accepted the Congressman's apology in a Christian manner. Thank You President Obama for doing all you could in this important issue on health care. We Love You.

No more computers!

In the future, perhaps within the next 30 years or so, computers as we know them will be become obsolete. Think about how typewriters faded away, even the most sophisticated ones are gone. Computers are next in line. Some new technology will replace them. I believe the new system will be one that does not use a typing pad. The new system will operate solely on voice commands. Communications via this new system will become a way of life, like the cellular phone nowadays. The new system will be light enough to be carried everywhere, and will operate on solar powered batteries.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is extremely common. Finally, bad breath has found its match. The solution is Smart Mouth. Check it out:

http://www.smartmouth.com/

Satan

There is a huge question that no religion existing on this planet has answered it to my satisfaction. The question is "why does God allow Satan to exist?"

If you know an answer please comment on this blog.

Are any botanicals extract available in the USA for injections?

The US FDA does not allow any botanical formulations to be injected. Only those for oral or topical administration are allowed in the USA. In Europe, some extracts are permitted for injections. Of course, those are intended for injections must be prepared under aseptic techniques, and they should be free of any microbial contamination or pyrogen. Thus, injectable preparations are sterile. Injecting contaminated preparations can lead to systemic infections, fever, and death.

Cautions and Warnings

1) Botanicals or herbals must never be taken by the following people (unless it is recommended by their physicians): the very young (under 12 years), pregnant women, and nursing mothers. This is a general precaution.

2) Always communicate with your physician concerning any herbal treatment that you are currently taking.

3) Never take any herbal product if you are on prescription or over-the-counter medications.

4) Drug/herb or herb/herb interactions do occur, and consequences could be severe, and even death may occur.

Luck, Lucky, and Murphy's Law

If you have not heard of Murphy's Law here it is "If things can go wrong, they will". Murphy's Law, as it seems, was just written for me. Other people have enough luck, or they are just lucky, Murphy's Law does not apply for them. I hope you are one of them.

I recently bought a new computer, the cheapest possible and was on sale, after I saved for it the last 3 years (I managed to save 30 cents daily in a jar.) The last day I stumbled on a piece of furniture and I dropped it. The glass monitor broke and created a big black spot on it. Unfortunately, I cannot fix it (it cost $75), and I cannot buy another one for the next three years. Murphy's Law never fails.

Tomorrow is September 9, 2009

It will not happen again, a triple 9s, 09.09.09.

Lotus Flower

This ancient respected flower from Asia and the Middle-East is used by herbalists for its astringent and anti-diarrhea effects. Its strengthen the kidneys and the spleen as well. Other beneficial effects include lowering of serum cholesterol and strengthening the blood vessels and the heart.

Writing is a form of healing

Alternative health practitioners consider writing as a form of healing. If you are depressed, stressed out, or sad, try to write down your thoughts and feelings. As you write them down their negative energy is transcribed into a positive one. You will feel rejuvenated and refreshed. And, only may be, you may end-up with a book of your own. Remember the Chinese proverb "a thousand-mile journey begins with a single step."

It is Labor Day: Monday, September 7, 2009

Happy Labor Day, 2009.

Mamaherb.com

For over 15,000 home remedies, visit http://www.mamaherb.com/.

Gymnema sylvestre

For over 2000 years the national health care in India, known as Ayurveda, has been using an herb to manage diabetes symptoms. This herb is Gymnema sylvestre. It has an unusual ability to block the sweet taste of many sugars. In Ayurvedic Medicine, Gymnema is a highly respected herb. Western research on Gymnema reveals an interesting finding; when given to experimental animals with no pancreas, the herb does not lower blood sugar. This is an indication that its primary effect is to enhance the production of insulin from the pancreas, although some researchers believe that it also restores the function of the pancreas to normal. Diabetes is a very serious disease and without proper treatment by a licenced physician it can be deadly. Diabetic patients must follow the recommendations by their physician and do not attempt to take any herbal formula, in particular Gymnema, without close supervision by their physician. Insulin and/or oral anti-diabetic medications are the sole recognized effective treatments for diabetes, and currently there is no substitution for them.

Should I wear a respirator or a facemask to protect me from H1N1 infection?

Read the guidance from the CDC.

What to do if I get sick with H1N1 virus or someone else in my family?

Read the information from the CDC. It is life saving.

Update from the CDC on H1N1 Virus

The CDC announced on September 3, 2009 at 9:00 AM that the number of hospitalized persons from Swine Flu virus in the USA has reached 9,079 cases with a cumulative number of death of 593 cases.

One more cent!

One more cent, that was what the State of North Carolina added to our sales taxe. At a time where most the companies in the State opted not to give raises this year, at a time where over 10% of the State's population are without work, at a time where unemployment figures in some counties are as high as 17%, the State decided to raise our taxes by one cent. They told us it is going to be temporally until 2011. Hopefully, there will be enough people doing business in the State by then. I read the local newspapers too. Businesses are moving out of State, and new businesses are reluctant to move in because of this higher tax rate. It may sound like what's the big deal with one single cent raise, but this translates to about $250/year/family. A $250 of meals and baby foods; a $250 of diapers; a $250 of paying for baby's doctor visits. You have taken that away from us. We cannot wait until year 2011 to feed our families. Do the right thing and repeal this tax, it was inappropriate at this time of needs.

St. John's Wort

Elderly people should protect their eyes with sunglasses if they are taking St. John's Wort. Chemicals in the plant can cause damage to the retina in elderly people when exposed to sun.

Black Pepper

The best way to add black pepper to foods is after you finished cooking them. Heating black peppers produces chemicals that were found to be carcinogenic in test tubes.

Common Lungwort

Common Lungwort is useful for lung infections. Herbalists recommend this plant for upper respiratory tract infections. It is also good in salad and as a side dish vegetable.

Mob Mentality

No one should never underestimate a mob mentality. Individuals in mobs loose their identity for the sake for a common cause. A mob never rational. It has no common sense. People who are members of a mob try to please each other by repeating the slogans of the mob. Mob mentality never makes any sense. Mob mentality is brainless. People who join a mob are also brainless.

Gaining Weight May Not Be Your Fault

Gaining weight by eating foods that you love is problematic for some people. Actually, in the US, this is becoming epidemic. Have you wonder why some people can eat everything and in big quantity and never gain a pound. Well, science has recently discovered a gene associated with obesity. If this gene, known as IKKε, is switched off, the person can never gain any extra weight. Scientists are now working on ways to learn how to switch this gene off. Perhaps in the future a trip to McDonald's would not leave you with too much guilt.

Common Sense: Extremely Useless

People without education or mediocre education can be persuaded very easily by more educated and highly intelligent people. This is the state of the healthcare debate today. A mob of uneducated and illiterates people have been told, and naively believed it due to their challenged intelligence, that the National Health System is bad for them. Added to their low capability of comprehension their extreme prejudice, and you end up with a mob mentality. Unfortunately, the same people in this mob will be the first to benefit from the National Health System. It is unfortunate, because they are fighting against their own personal benefit. Wake up people, National Health System is good for you; it is good for everyone.

Report: Aspirin may reduce the risk of cancer death after colorectal cancer diagnosis

Will The National Health System Insure Undocumented Immigrants?

In my hometown Raleigh, NC we have a talk radio station that is 99.99% conservative. One of the talk radio hosts on this station advocates against covering undocumented immigrants in our soon-to-be National Health Coverage. (Of course he does not call them undocumented, he calls then illegal.) The same talk radio host boasts of having two dogs and him being a catholic. I wonder if he knows where his dogs were born and how they ended up here in this country. I wonder if his dogs were illegal in this country. Would he provide them with the vet care if they need it? And how about his catholic faith. I bet he receives communion without hesitation, and he forgets that the next person in line to receive the same communion may be an "undocumented immigrant". Jesus indeed hated sins, but most of all he despised hypocrisy. Illegal or undocumented, it does not matter, they are our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our motto should be "I am my brother's keeper."

Vaccines are now available at your local drug store

Many pharmacies now offer vaccination for the flu virus. Check with your local pharmacy to see if they offer this service. Most likely they do.

Vaccination

In the months to come, vaccine against H1N1 virus will be available in the United States. Some will object to its use citing dangerous side effects. If there is anything positive man has done in medicine, one of them will be vaccination. Vaccines save lives. Vaccines are good for our health. Vaccines are not evil. Get vaccinated and protect yourself and your family. It is the Right thing to do.

Senator Ted Kennedy Funeral

I was watching the funeral today (August 29, 2009) on TV, perhaps like millions of other viewers. Tears, memories, and appreciations were my feelings about this great man. Senator Ted Kennedy was buried at the Arlington Cemetery near his two brothers who preceded him in death. May God bless the Kennedy family.

A Brief Encounter

My very brief encounter with the late Senator Ted Kennedy came in Boston, Massachusetts at the Copley Plaza Hotel one afternoon. I was leaving an elevator at the ground/lobby level of the hotel where I saw a handsome and familiar gentleman coming toward me to get into the elevator. It was Senator Ted Kennedy. I practically passed by him probably within an inch. I learned later that he was there to meet the Prime Minister of Vietnam who was visiting the USA that day. I remember demonstrators against the Vietnamese Prime minister were shouting slogans outside the hotel holding banners against the regime in Vietnam. Up until now when I think about how close I was to the Senator I get so pleased about the thought that I saw such a great man so close in my life. Such a memory is eternal. I already told my kids and soon I will tell this story to my grand children. Rest in Peace our beloved Teddy. May God bless you, your family, and the United States of America.

Meet the Swine Flu Virus--Images from the CDC

Zinc Sulfate

Zinc sulfate can block the taste of many sweets, including artificial sweeteners.

The death of a PRINCE

If the United States of America were a kingdom, the Kennedy family would have been its monarchs, and Ted Kennedy would have been a prince. The USA lost on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 one of its dearest princes, Ted Kennedy. We will always love you, Ted, and Cherish your memory. We miss you. May God bless you, your family, and the United States of America.

Middle-Eastern Salad

Try this delicious salad recipe: 3 wine-ripe tomatoes, 1 large cucumber, one large onion, parsley (1/2 a cup), green bell pepper, salt, black pepper, extra-virgin olive oil (1/2 a cup), 1 lemon juice. Cut tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley into small pieces, add salt and black pepper to taste, and mix with olive oil and lemon. Enjoy.

Stinging Nettle

If you are a gardener you would know better not to touch nettle with your bear hands. Nettle may be used in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to naturopaths in Germany.

Basil may protect against H1N1 Infections

Due to its antiviral properties, Basil may be used as a protective herb against Swine Flu virus, according to herbalists from India.

Vaccinate Children and Their Parents

With the fear of H1N1 looming on the horizon and the school opening in August and September, perhaps the best way to combat the Swine Flu spread is to vaccinate school age children and their parents. I wonder if anyone out there will hear this call. We are all at risk of attracting the virus, and this could be our savior.

What makes a great country "great"?

Greatness of a country is not in its wealth or its size; it is not the size of its population either. What makes a great country great is how it handles the least of its citizens. These are the handicaps, the homeless, the invalids, the shut-ins, the prisoners, the mentally ill, and the very young and very old. Also, how the country treats other nations, specially its neighbors is a good indication of its greatness. How it treats its visitors and the foreigners who live within its border is another way to assess a country's greatness. If you really want to know how great the country is look up the programs and the services it offers to those most vulnerable people and you would know how great that country is.

Why is the government of the United States so successful?

The answer is simple; it is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Everyone has some input in it.

Pregnant Women Will Receive Swine Flu Vaccine First in the USA

Recommendations by US Health authorities has asked that pregnant women be vaccinated first due to its severity in this population.

Is Canadian Health Care System Worse than that of the USA?

In Canada, the overall life expectancy is 80.7 years (78.3 years for men and 82.9 years for women). In the USA, the overall life expectancy is 78.2 years (75.6 years for men and 80.8 years for women). Canada has a national health system that covers everybody. In the US, only those who can afford it can buy health insurance or are covered by their employers. I guess we either have to move to Canada to live longer or create a system like theirs. I vote for the latter.
[Source: United Nations figures for life expectancy 2005-2010].

Who will get Swine Flu vaccine first?

It is planned that the first people to get vaccination against Swine Flu virus in the US are health care workers, followed by the very young and very old, and those with chronic illnesses.

US Cases of Swine Flu Virus Since April 23, 2009

Perdicted Swine Flu Cases in the US

It has been predicted that about 40% of the population in the United States (65 million persons) will be infected with H1N1 virus (the Swine Flu virus) within the next 24 months, according to US health sources.

Volunteers are needed for Swine Flu vaccine

The US government is seeking volunteers to test a new Swine Flu vaccine. So far, over 500 people have volunteered to receive this new vaccine.

Cases of Swine Flu in the US as of July 24, 2009

The cumulative number of cases has reached 43,771 with 302 reported deaths (CDC sources).

Ginseng: "Hot" and "Cold"

In Traditional Chinese Medicine American ginseng is considered "cold", whereas Panax ginseng is labelled as "hot".

Echinacea

There are numerous echinacea species, but only three species are used in botanical medicine. A great controversy surrounds echinacea use for cold and flu. In summary, echinacea appears to slightly decrease the severity of the illness and reduce the duration time of the disease, if taken in a liquid form. Powdered forms of echinacea have little or no effect at all.

Low Cholesterol Level

A low cholesterol level in the blood may be associated with depression, suicide, and violence, according to some scientific studies. Other studies also show an association between low blood cholesterol and the development of some types of cancer. Low cholesterol in these studies was assumed to be lower than 180 mg/dL. A better parameter than the total cholesterol level is the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL level (the good cholesterol.)

Laughter

"Smile and the whole world smiles at you, cry and you will cry alone." Anonymous

Have you ever wondered why people invite others to their weddings, however, they expect everybody to show-up at their funeral?

A follow-up on my post of July 15, 2009

When God made himself man incarnated in Jesus Christ, the man, why don't you think He is not capable of making himself not knowing the future of man? After all, Jesus suffered and died (and was risen from death), and at times was powerless like anyone of us. If God can make himself powerless, He can make himself unknowing of the future.

Number of Fatalities from Swine Flu in The USA

According to the CDC, this number is now stand at 263 deaths.

Swine Flu Cases in the USA

Swine Flu cases in the USA are now over 40,000.

Why does not God prevent suffering from happening?

Why does not God prevent suffering from happening? Here is the answer: Since God is all-knowledgeable, all-powerful, and is not limited to time, He can do whatever He chooses to do. Since He is capable of doing anything, that is nothing is impossible for God, He decided to make himself not knowing in advance what would happen in the future. In other words, He made himself not to know what would happen to man. His reasoning for doing so is that, since He gave man the "freedom" to choose between evil and good, and since He will judge each one of us on our acts, it would not be "logical" that he would know in advance our actions. Otherwise, He is permitting people to be borne knowing in advance they are going to hell forever; it is just not logical and does not fit the image of "God the loving Father." But since He does NOT know the future anymore, now it is possible for Him to judge us on our deeds. So, does God allow suffering? The answer is "of course No". He just does not know, like the rest of us.

Echinacea

Echinacea should not be taken for more than 6 to 8 weeks at one time, preferably for a period not to exceed two weeks. Echinacea is known to stimulate the immune system, and with continuous stimulation for a long time can result in a depletion of the immune system and weaken it.

WHO and H1N1 Vaccination

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced yesterday (July 14, 2009) that doctors and nurses (and other health providers who have direct patient care) should be the first to be vaccinated against Swine Flu virus.

Are Herbal Products Safe During Breast Feeding?

The simple answer is NO. Consult with your physician before taking any medications or botanical products, including those that are available over-the counter. Unless it is approved by your physician, nothing should be taken during the period of breast feeding. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Are Herbal Products Safe During Pregnancy?

The simple answer to this question is NO. Unless prescribed by a physician, all herbal products are contraindicated during pregnancy. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Black Cohosh Use After Child Birth

This native American Indian herb is often used by natural healers after birth to ease pain. One its components is salicylic acid, an anti-pain agent.

Half the facts please

I often listen to a talk radio station here in Raleigh, NC on my way home from work. The host is an extreme case of conservatism, and I think it is a terminal case with no hope for him to recover from it. He asks people to be intellectually honest about the issues he cares to discuss, but yet he only represents his point of view. He often gets mad at people if they represent another point of view than his. Case of point is the National Health Insurance that the Congress of the US is considering now. Of course he is against it 200%. He thinks that other's countries health systems is inferior to ours technically (which he probably is correct in saying that), but he fails to see how much it is costing us in private insurance. The National Health Insurance plan will use the same technology, but in a more efficient and cheaper way, a point he miserably incapable to comprehend. Thank God that we finally have a Congress and an Executive branch that is willing to do right by the people. They are the best leaders ever. God bless them all.

Akky Dinia Plant

Someone wrote to me asking about the Akki Dinia plant on my blog. This plant can also be written as Akidinia, or in any other variety spelling. It is known as Loquat or Japanese Plum tree (Eriobotrya japonica). The tree is native to Japan and China, however, it is grown in the USA and the Middle-Eastern countries. This plant exists in many variety, and the fruit is tart and sweet.

To Err is Human

In this age of perfection, people are "shocked" to hear about one or more of our political figures that had some type of affairs or made an error of judgement. How quickly we rush into judgement. Have we forgotten about the 9th commandment? Why do you think God placed it there? Was it just for the people of that age? Of course not. God knows that human, being a mere mortal, is going to violate this commandment. Be it in the year 1000 BC or 2100 AD. To err is human. We all make mistakes. Our leader politicians make mistakes as well. That does not mean they are not good people. They are all good people. They have served the public for many years. They did a lot of good deeds to this nation. Whether they are democrats or republicans, we need to forgive them and move on. No one among us is better than them. We all make mistakes, but since we are not in the public eyes, no one (except for a few) finds out about it. Let them continue doing what they know best, governing. Forgive them as you ask the good Lord to forgive your mistakes. Let us stop this madness, and leave these good people alone. We must forgive them, at least for the sake of their families and children. Enough is enough.