Some notes on natural remedies: herbal preparations are available as capsules, tablets, tinctures, teas, concentrated drops, solid extracts and standardized extracts. Use the dosage recommendations in this handbook or follow the product package directions. Dilute herbal tinctures and concentrated drops in 1/4 cup of warm water or tea to prevent possible throat irritation.

Vitamins, minerals, and other supplements, which are usually sold in tablet or capsule form, should be taken in the dosages on the package or with the guidance of a health practitioner. Homeopathic remedies for home use are taken primarily at 6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X or 30C, measures of how many times the original substance has been diluted. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 minutes before or after taking the remedy.

Many ask how healing takes place. From scripture we get "physician heal thyself," which means that healing starts with God and trusting God. A human being is made of three parts; Body, Soul and Spirit and unless all three parts are dealt with, the problem will continue no matter what a person does. From the Spiritual aspect it is about asking God to heal through Jesus, but goes deeper as Jesus came as a man and healed individuals not as the Son of God, but as a person, because of a covenant God gave people "if they believe."

Many of course do not understand this, which is why the soul or the mind needs to be dealt with understanding that God wants us all to be healed. Sometimes and often more than not, bad beliefs need to be dealt with, which may be a slower process, because we all learn a lot of things before the ripe old age of seven and many of our beliefs came from that time as we were influenced by many people, which is why Cognitive Restructuring is needed to help a person deal with such beliefs and adopt new beliefs that will allow a person to be healed.

One other important part of information in regards to healing is stress. Stress is a killer, which also goes back to a spiritual problem and also needs being dealt with in Cognitive Restructuring. Having said all of the human body also has needs of proper nutrients, herbs, antioxidants, supplements, vitamins and minerals, which play a large role in healing.

To recap to hopefully make this clearer, it takes dealing with all three parts of a human being, body, soul and spirit. The body, is what needs the healing takes proper nutrients, herbs, antioxidants, supplements, vitamins and minerals. In addition, the body also may need therapies such as Reiki or Suction to aid in reducing pain and stress.  The soul needs often times Cognitive Restructuring, which will  help the mind accept the healing and last, but not least takes the spirit of an individual to be healed, which can really only come from God through Jesus. 

Allergies and Hay Fever occur when the immune system becomes oversensitive to a foreign substance such as dust, animal dander, mold spores, pollen, or various chemicals. Food allergies are also common, with wheat, corn, dairy products, soy, shellfish, peanuts and chocolate the frequent offenders. Symptoms of allergies include sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion, fatigue, and headaches.

Allergies may also play a role in chronic illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, migraine headaches, eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, and depression. Natural treatment involves identifying and avoiding the allergen (when possible), strengthening the body to reduce sensitivity, and alleviating allergic reactions when they occur.

Anxiety and Nervous Tension are usually the result of the emotional and physical stresses encountered in daily life. For example: relationship problems, financial difficulties, job demands, traffic jams, and crowded or noisy environments. Even seemingly happy events such as marriage, a promotion, or moving to a new home create a state of emotional and physiological arousal that can easily turn into exhaustion.

Unrelenting anxiety and nervous tension weaken the adrenal glands and stress the body and may lead to weakened immune function and problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers and and other degenerative illnesses. Simple steps that help relieve stress include relaxation or meditation, exercise, and deep breathing. Massage and bodywork as well as emotional counseling can be beneficial.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and cartilage that can affect any part of the body, including the fingers, knees, feet, and back. Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by degeneration of the cartilage that occurs with age and is made worse by repetitive physical tasks and activities that place undue stress on the joints. The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and stiffness; they are generally relieved by resting the affected joint.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects people of all ages and is thought to be an autoimmune disease wherein the body attacks its own tissues. The primary symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are painful, stiff joints which tend to become swollen, tender, and deformed. Fatigue, a low-grade fever, and depression may accompany this condition.

Although conventional medicine regards arthritis as incurable, many people have had symptoms relieved and even reversed through dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, gentle exercise such as yoga and tai chi, and stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises. Saunas, hot tubs, and hot baths can also stimulate circulation and provide relief.

Asthma attacks are caused by a temporary constriction of the bronchial passages, which results in difficulty in breathing, particularly upon exhalation. The narrowing of the air passages often leads to a build up of mucus in the lungs, making respiration even more labored. A severe asthma attack can be life-threatening. Symptoms of asthma include a hard, tight cough, wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty in exhaling, and nervous tension or fright.

Conditions or substances that may bring on an asthma attack include allergies (which not only can trigger individual episodes, but can also lead to chronic asthma), exercise, respiratory and sinus infections, emotional tension and anxiety, hormonal changes, cold weather, drugs, and airborne irritants such as tobacco smoke.

Since anxiety can worsen an asthma attack that is not triggered by an emotional factor, long-term treatment should include relaxation.

Backache, especially in the lower back, is a common malady that affects as many as four out of five Americans. Causes include injury (as from lifting an object improperly), prolonged standing, pregnancy, poor posture, lack of exercise, and kidney or reproductive problems. Muscle tension brought on by emotional stress is also implicated in chronic back pain. Because there are so many factors involved in back pain, it is essential to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Backache therapies address relieving not only the immediate muscle pain but also any contributing physical and emotional tension. Backache sufferers usually benefit from stretching, yoga, abdominal strengthening, swimming, and walking, and manipulative therapies such as chiropractic, osteopathy and massage. Millions of Americans have benefited from chiropractic care for their sore backs, and research indicates that this treatment is safe and effective.

Bites and Stings are among the most common minor emergencies. Cleaning the injury thoroughly and applying natural remedies with antibacterial and antiseptic properties is usually all that is necessary to assist the body's natural healing powers. Bites and stings can occasionally cause serious health problems, including rabies, tetanus, Lyme disease, tick fever, and venom poisoning. Seek medical help for any animal bite or if an insect bite shows signs of infection.

Bruises, Strains, and Sprains: A bruise is a soft-tissue injury caused by a fall or a blow from a blunt object. The impact crushes or breaks tiny blood vessels under the skin and causes a pooling of blood, also known as a hematoma or contusion. A strain or pull is an injury to a muscle or tendon (the tendon is the tapered end of a muscle where it is attached to the bone), in which it is over stretched or partially torn. A sprain is an injury not to a muscle, but to the ligaments (the tissue that connects bone to bone) around a joint.

The basic immediate therapy for bruises, strains, and sprains is the same: RICE, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. After the first day, when swelling has stopped, applications of warm compresses or heating remedies can help return circulation.

Burns are classified as first-, second- or third-degree by the severity of tissue damage and by how many layers of skin are affected. First-degree burns affect only the epidermis, the top layer of skin; second degree burns damage the next-lower layer, the dermis, and usually cause swelling and blistering; and third-degree burns injure all skin layers, including the subcutaneous tissue, and may damage muscles and other tissues as well. Burn treatment is determined by the type, size, and location of the burn on the body. The best way to treat a first-degree burn is to immediately run cold water over it until the burning sensation stops; then apply a topical remedy like aloe.

Colds and Flu: The common cold is a contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by any of more than one hundred different viruses. A cold usually lasts 3 - 4 days and causes sneezing, congestion, runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and general achiness.

Influenza is also caused by a virus but is a more virulent infection. Flu symptoms include all cold symptoms, plus fever, diarrhea, nausea, and weakness. Both colds and flu can be complicated by secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or sinusitis. Natural remedies, bed rest, and plenty of fluids will ease the symptoms and speed recovery from both conditions.

Constipation is primarily caused by an insufficient amount of fiber in the diet. Fiber absorbs water in the intestines, creating a bulkier stool that is soft and moves easily through the intestinal tract. Constipation may also be caused by colon disease, pregnancy, prescription drugs, dehydration, or a lack of exercise. Chronic constipation can lead to hemarrhoids, fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, and other problems. Relying on laxatives, whether conventional or natural, causes the colon to become lazy and creates a cycle of relying on stronger and stronger remedies. More appropriate long-term solutions to constipation included getting more exercise (especially walking), eating a high-fiber diet, and drinking plenty of fluids.

Cuts and Abrasions may become infected, but simple home treatments generally promote quick healing. A large cut or abrasian - for example, one that covers the whole length of the arm and has a lot of dirt in it - requires medical attention, as does a cut that bleeds profusely (use direct pressure to stop the bleeding, then call for help). Clean dirt from minor cuts and scrapes by rinsing the wound under a gentle stream of cold-running water and then rinsing with a mild soap and a clean washcloth. Dry gently with sterile gauze or a clean cloth, and apply a healing remedy.

Diarrhea may be chronic or acute, depending on the cause. Stress, laxatives, drugs, intestinal parasites, flu viruses, food allergies, and poisoning can all cause diarrhea. Acute diarrhea is a result of the body’s attempt to rid itself of toxins, irritants, or infections in the intestinal tract. Allow the body to do its cleansing work, drink plenty of fluids, and intervene only if dehibilitation occurs.

Chronic diarrhea may present a serious health risk since it can cause a significant loss of nutrients and dehydration. Warning signs that diarrhea is a symptom of a more serious underlying condition include fever, severe cramps, and blood in the stools. Dehydration from diarrhea is particularly dangerous for infants. Consult a health practitioner if diarrhea persists for more than one day.

Earaches are a common childhood ailment, accounting for nearly a third of doctor's visits for children up to age five. Most childhood earaches are from otitis media - infections of the middle ear. These are often the result of bacterial or viral infections that cause swelling and blocking of the Eustachian tube. Middle ear infections frequently follow an upper respiratory tract infection. Symptoms include earache, redness or bulging of the eardrum, and a fever of 103 degrees or higher. Outer ear infections affecting the ear canal (otitis externa, or swimmer's ear) are less serious. Most outer ear canal infections are the result of getting water in the canal while swimming or showering. Bacteria growing in the damp environment cause the infection.

Symptoms include a watery fluid draining from the ear, itching, and pain. (Pain from wiggling the external ear is a sign of an infection of the outer rather than middle ear). It is important to keep the outer ear canal dry if it has become infected. Shield it from water, even while taking a shower, with earplugs or a shower cap. A simple and effective treatment for an outer ear infection is to mix equal parts of white vinegar and 70% isopropyl alcohol. Place a few drops in the ear and tilt the head, letting the solution stay in the ear for 30 seconds.

Fatigue, or a lack of vitality, is one of the most common complaints today. The body normally recovers from physical fatigue with sufficient rest. Fatigue that is not related to physical exertion may be caused by dietary deficiencies, abuse of caffeine or other stimulant drugs, hormonal changes, or health problems such as chronic fatigue syndrome or anemia. Stress often saps energy and contributes to fatigue. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause should be the therapeutic goal.

Headaches are most often tension headaches, caused by anxiety, nervous tension, eyestrain, poor posture, or tight muscles in the shoulders, neck or head. Headaches also occur as a symptom of a wide variety of conditions, including colds and flus, PMS, allergies, and digestive problems. Migraine headaches are caused by an expansion of blood vessels in the head and often cause severe pain, usually on one side of the head, and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Relaxation techniques such as biofeedback training, yoga, and deep breathing can help prevent and relieve both tension and migraine headaches.

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen or dilated (varicose) veins around the anus or in the wall of the rectum. They are itchy and painful, and may bleed during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are often the result of a fiber-poor diet, which leads to hard, dry stools and chronic constipation. This causes straining while defecating, which pushes the veins out of the anus. Contributing factors include prolonged sitting and lack of exercise.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects almost 25 percent of adults in America and is a major cause of stroke, heart and kidney disease, and glaucoma. Obesity, a diet high in saturated fats and salt, insufficient exercise, tobacco, alcohol, and emotional stress all contribute to the development of hypertension.

Often referred to as “the silent killer,” hypertension frequently presents no symptoms in its early stages but may appear as dizziness, fatigue, difficulty in breathing or headaches. The drug therapies prescribed for high blood pressure frequently have undesirable side effects, and studies have shown that people who do not take anti-hypertensive drugs are healthier than those who take prescription medications. Most hypertension can be controlled with diet, supplements, herbs, exercise and stress management.

Insomnia takes many different forms, including difficulty in falling asleep, restless sleeping, or waking in the middle of the night. Common causes are caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, especially if consumed in the evening. Nervous tension and anxiety, PMS or menopause, lack of exercise, eating too late in the evening, vitamin deficiencies, certain drugs, and food allergies may also cause insomnia.

Sleeping pills and sedatives may work initially but then interfere with sleep. In addition, these drugs are often dangerous, habit forming and upsetting to the long-term balance of the body’s natural rhythms. Better long-term solutions are to reduce anxiety (by practicing biofeedback or meditation, for example) and getting more exercise during the day (but not right before bed). Herbs, either in tea or in the form of essential oils in the bath, can be especially effective; a warm bath (just hotter than body temperature) laced with chamomile—tea or oil are equally effective—will induce drowsiness in almost anyone.

Menopause, the ending of a woman's reproductive years, is often accompanied by uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms that are caused by decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone. The most common symptoms include irregular menstruation, hot flashes, heart palpitations, mood swings, night sweats, depression, and vaginal dryness. Heart disease and osteoporosis are also linked to lower estrogen levels. Although the ovaries stop producing hormones after menopause, the endocrine glands, including the adrenal glands, produce smaller amounts of estrogen and other hormones.

Exercise can relieve many of the uncomfortble symptoms of menopause. Regular aerobic exercise helps decreade the risk of heart disease and provides an outlet for emotional tension. Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or lifting light weights, helps maintain bone density. Learning to manage emotional stresses through yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises can help smooth the mood swings of menopause and reduce stress on the adrenal glands.

Natural therapies are often helpful in relieveing the sypmtoms that accompany menopausal changes and in preventing the degenerative diseases that can occur in the postmenopausal years.

Nausea can be caused by a variety of factors, including motion sickness, morning sickness, vertigo, exposure to cigarette smoke, or even a psychological shock such as the sight of blood. Nausea may also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as viral infection, alcohol or drug overdose, or chemical or food poisoning. If nausea is accompanied by vomiting, it is crucial to guard against dehydration by replacing lost fluids.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) often affects women in their thirties, during the premenopausal years, when hormonal imbalances may cause headaches, irritability, fluid retention, and mood swings. Regular exercise promotes the smooth regulation of hormone levels, and taking the time for relaxation, especially through yoga, tai chi, or deep breathing exercises, helps reduce the tension and anxiety that can often contribute to menstrual problems.

Prostatitis Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland that is caused by bacteria, which travel up the urethra and into the prostate. Symptoms include difficult and frequent urination accompanied by a painful or burning sensation. Other symptoms include fever, chills, and pain may spread through the genitals, and pelvic area.

If prostatitis becomes chronic, inflammation can occur without bacterial infection. The pain then is caused by excess tension in the muscles of the pelvic floor or congestion of the prostate, and is often brought on by emotional stress. Hot baths can improve circulation to the genital area and relax the pelvic muscles, Practicing stress management through biofeedback, yoga, or deep breathing will help relieve tension. Avoid ejaculation during an actual infection, but otherwise ejaculate frequently to prevent prostate congestion.

Sinus Problems The sinuses are in the air cavaties above and below the eyes that connect with the breathing passages. The sinus linings can swell or become clogged because of respiration allergies or colds, and if bacteria or viruses lodge in the sinuses, they may cause an infection (sinusitis). Sinus problems usually make breathing through the nose difficult and may be accompanied by postnasal drip, coughing, headache and pain or pressure around the eyes and nose.

The simplest way to drain and decongest the sinuses is to breathe warm, moist air. Use a humidifier, take hot showers, use steam inhalers, or put hot wet towels over the sinuses. Drink plenty of fluids to thin the mucus secretions, and massage the areas under the eyes and on the sides of the nose to stimulate circulation.

Skin Conditions such as acne, athlete's foot, rashes, eczema, poison ivy and other forms of contact dermatitis are quite common. Acne occurs when the skin's natural oil blocks the pores. Bacteria gathers in the blocked pores and pimples form. Acne is influenced by hormones, diet (particularly fat consumption), and hygiene.

Athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that takes hold when the feet are confined in a warm and damp environment - tennis shoes, for example - causes scaling, itching, and cracking of the skin around the toes and sides of the feet. Natural antifungal remedies can be applied topically, and the feet should be kept clean and dry. Skin rashes, including eczema, are usually itchy, peeling, red, and can be either wet or dry. The cause of such rashes are often complex, and may involve allergies, nutritional deficiencies, and stress. Treatment includes identifying and avoiding allergens, managing emotional tension, and applying dry remedies to wet rashes and moistening remedies to dry rashes.

Yeast Infections (Candidiasis) are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida Albicans fungus, a normal inhabitant of the gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Causes of overgrowth included antibiotics, infections, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. Symptoms include recurrent vaginal infections characterized by itching, burning, or a thick discharge.

Women with vaginal yeast infections should keep the vaginal area cool and dry. Wear loose clothing and cotton underpants, and avoid vaginal sprays and deodorants, which can disturb the acid-alkaline balance of the vagina. Natural treatments for candidiasis involve reducing the factors that contribute to candida overgrowth and strengthening the immune system.