Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Yeast and Parasites linked to chronic inflammation and poor digestion


Two natural consequences of immune deficiency states is parasite infestation and yeast over-growth. These conditions always manifest in patients who have chronic inflammatory conditions and poor digestion. The inflammatory process creates dampness as a buffer to protect vital organs and tissues from damage. Once the immune system has stabilized the inflammatory condition, the waste materials and fluids produced during the inflammatory process need to be eliminated to keep the body from becoming a sewer. When fluids are not metabolized properly, heat from the body congeals the stagnant fluids into mucus states that make the perfect environment for parasitic colonization.

Whenever inflammation occurs, the sympathetic nervous system must engage to counteract the inflammation. When the immune system triggers the sympathetic or fight-or-flight nervous state, the parasympathetic nervous system, which influences digestion, disengages. Digestion slows its production so that most or all of the body's energy resources can be diverted to the sympathetic response. The extent to which digestive function diminishes depends on the severity and duration of the sympathetic response. In chronic inflammatory conditions, poor digestion becomes part of the disease process. Both lead to immune deficiency states.

The immune system has a mechanism for dealing with the kind of internal milieu that fosters an infestation and over-growth of yeast and parasites. It relies on the digestive functions of the body to transform damp conditions. The organ system that transforms both damp accumulation and noxious substances (such as yeasts and parasites) from a substantive state into metabolic waste for elimination is the pancreas. When digestion is weak and sluggish, yeasts and parasites are allowed to proliferate and create chronic allergic or auto-immune states. The chronic inflammatory condition creates more dampness which digestion must then eliminate. Yet the chronic inflammatory condition requires sustained sympathetic action, which further diminishes the productive capability of the digestive system. The more sympathetic you are (inflammation, stressed), the less parasympathetic you have (digestion, normal). This creates and perpetuates a cycle of cause/effect with sympathetic dominance and parasympathetic weakness. The greater the differential between the two, the harder it becomes to restore health.p

The best way to solve problems with yeast and/or parasites is through individualized care, taking into account your personal health history of all the contributing factors and patterns of disease associated with this immune problem. Holistic physicians can recommend homeopathic and Chinese herbal medicines specifically for parasites and yeasts. You don't have to be diagnosed with parasites and/or yeast, however, to improve the conditions that foster that growth. Digestion is an important immune regulating function of the body's defensive system. It performs vital house-keeping functions to keep the internal environment from becoming a haven for parasites and other opportunistic pathology-creating organisms. When you improve digestion you improve immunity.

Holistic Medicine provides the proper framework for restoring vitality and health to the digestive system so that the damp conditions ripe for parasites and yeast can be dredged and drained. Supporting the pancreas and stimulating lymphatic drainage are two key components of the yeast/parasite removal process. Damp resolving and qi supplementing herbs are commonly used in Chinese Medicine to improve digestion and immunity. Immune regulating herbs provide allergy relief as well as nutritional support for the organs that become weak in immune deficiency syndromes.

I find the following remedies to be very helpful when rectifying health problems related to yeast/parasite infestation. These nutritional supplements stimulate and support the lymphatic and digestive systems. This is good protocol for most chronic health problems, not just for parasite/yeast over-growth. (these can be found at www.e-holistichealth.com)

1. Newton Lymphatic Drainer (homeopathic remedy): stimulates lymphatic drainage and also supports liver and kidney functions to remove toxins ... a must for sluggish digestion, hepatic congestion, inflammatory bowel conditions, chronic respiratory illness, allergies and skin conditions; appropriate for the entire family; long term use okay for chronic conditions

2. Standard Process Pancreatrophin (whole food nutritional supplement): supports the health and functioning of the pancreas ... a must for sluggish digestion, hepatic congestion, weak constitution, allergies and all skin conditions;

3. Standard Process Allerplex (whole food nutritional supplement): supports the vitality and functions of the adrenal glands, lungs, liver and kidneys (important for chronic allergies), supports proper acid/alkaline balance ... a must for weak constitution, chronic respiratory illness, allergies and over-all immunity.

4. Chien Chin (Chinese herbal formula): supports elimination via the renal system, supports bladder health, drains damp ... a must for yeast infections, chronic urinary infections, chronic respiratory illness, intestinal candidiasis, allergies and all skin conditions.

5. Liddell Immune Boost (homeopathic remedy): improves vitality & immunity, stimulates lymphatic filtering system ... a must for weak constitution, chronic fatigue, chronic respiratory illness, allergies, inflammatory bowel conditions, allergies and all skin conditions.

6. Aquilaria Pills (also known as Aquilaria Transform Qi Pills, Chinese herbal formula)- although traditionally used for symptoms related to poor digestion (distension, pain, constipation, etc.), this formula contains herbs to transform damp from the intestinal tract and supports the kidneys too

7. Shen Ling Bai Zhu Pian (Chinese herbal formula) - useful in chronic diseases as an immune tonic, improves digestion and drains dampness ... good for a weak constitution, sluggish digestion, chronic fatigue, chronic respiratory weakness, intestinal candidiasis

All these clinically-based remedies have broad-spectrum nutritional value for general health and are appropriate for anyone with poor digestion, chronic fatigue, allergies, inflammatory bowel conditions and yeast or parasite infestation. The Chinese formula Chien Chin is an important addition to any detoxification protocol. After immune functions and digestion are improved, the waste materials must be eliminated. Symptoms of "damp heat" will manifest in the renal system (the bladder, kidneys and reproductive organs) and these symptoms are often mistaken as infections. The Chien Chin works like an antibiotic to resolve the "yeast" and it supports the functions of these organs. The Standard Process formulas are available only through licensed holistic practitioners (not available on website or retail: call 904-821-9535 for more info).

Yours in Health,

Dr. Toni

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Chinese Medicine is Immunology


Chinese Medicine is thousands of years old. Chinese herbal medicine is the most comprehensive pharmacological system in the world. When properly formulated and prescribed, Chinese herbal medicines are safe and very effective. Like all things consumed, improper or abusive use can contribute to unwanted side effects.

Commonly used Chinese herbal formulas for acute infectious diseases are based on ancient prescriptions with a proven track record. Chinese herbal medicines are safe because they are formulated with "helper" herbs to mitigate possible side effects from the stronger herbs in the formula that initiate the healing response to a disease.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Is Allergy Immunotherapy in the same category as Vaccination?


Do allergy shots fall into the same category as vaccines?That is a good question. The answer is both yes and no.



Allergy shots are often called “vaccines” because (1) they are injected and (2) the intention of both is to confer immunity. However allergy shots are unlike vaccines because (1) they are injected subcutaneously - under the skin, and (2) they do not contain the viral/bacterial material and toxic chemicals that vaccines do.


Allergy Immunotherapy is only recommended for allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and stinging insect allergy. It is not recommended for food allergies. It is not clear why this therapy does not work with foods. This might suggest that perhaps injecting attenuated food substances trigger more severe allergic reactions. It is said that allergy immunotherapy works like a vaccine and allergy shots are often referred to as vaccine. The immunologic basis for this form of treatment, however, is actually unknown. The theory is that both allergy immunotherapy and vaccinations manipulate the immune system into creating some type of immunity or resistance to the allergens and pathogens. The literature says that allergy shots must stop after 3 to 5 years and at that time the doctor has to decide whether to continue them or not. That would suggest that the cumulative effect of getting allergy shots compromises immune function in some way or has other side effects.


Allergens injected subcutaneously under the skin unleashes histamine or other mediating chemicals. The immunological reaction is similar to the allergic reaction a person has to the allergen in the environment. In other words, the immune system is allowed to behave the same way it does when the substances are encountered in the environment. This means that the mechanism INCLUDES both the normal cellular reactions and the complex non-specific reactions that happen under NORMAL circumstances of exposure. Allergy shots contain a non-toxic water-like base along with the allergen (which is not a virus or bacteria). Allergens cause allergic reactions (sometimes death, as in stings, etc.) but rarely morbidity. This is because the injection is subcutaneous, not into the bloodstream. A subcutaneous injection or oral medicine triggers normal immunological reactions. This permits completion of the complex process involved to create real immunity, and it allows the immune system to modulate appropriately. The substances are not driven into the bloodstream or deeper tissues of the body where vital organs could be affected.


Vaccines, on the other hand, are infection by injection – they are injected into the deeper tissues and bloodstream. Vaccines BYPASS the normal cellular reaction system and the complex communication process between the cellular immune system and the non-specific immune system. Life-long immunity can ONLY be conferred when the immune system deals with infection naturally (as in getting it from the natural environment). The immunity conferred with vaccines is only temporary, never life-long. Vaccines include both DISEASE-CAUSING viral or bacterial substances AND are loaded up with toxic chemicals and pharmaceutical medicines. These adjuvants are included because the immune response behaves quite differently with infection by injection and the adjuvants are needed to stimulate an immune reaction. Vaccines ALWAYS create morbidity – however, and except in the case of massive allergic reaction which is immediate, the signs/symptoms of vaccine reactions are often delayed due to the way non-specific immunity works.


Both allergy shots and vaccines have risks for allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The risk is higher and more common with vaccines (for obvious reasons). Sublingual allergy immunotherapy has less risk for this kind of allergic reaction because the substances are not injected subcutaneously or into the bloodstream. When chronic allergies become debilitating or life threatening and suppressing the inflammatory response with antihistamines and/or steroidal drugs does not improve the individual’s health, the conventional approach is to identify the specific allergens so that they may be eliminated from the individual’s diet and/or environment or, as in the case of allergy immunotherapy, try to create immunity to the specific allergens. Allergy immunotherapy is successful for many people and is an efficacious way to deal with a very debilitating problem. Often, however, the therapy only lessens the severity of the allergy response and creates other side effects (headaches, skin conditions, additional allergies). If the allergy immunotherapy is only partially successful, then it is not curative and the health of the individual is still compromised and in a weak state.


The question should not be “What is a person allergic to?” but “Why does the person have allergies at all?” The real problem is not this or that allergen but the health of the individual and his/her ability to resist ANY disease process or infection. Neither vaccination or allergy immunotherapy addresses the underlying organ weaknesses and immune system problems that make the person susceptible to infections and allergic reactions. It is well known that repeated vaccination compromises immune function and weakens the health of the individual. What are the limits to such an approach?


Are there ways to improve health so that a person is not hypersensitive and susceptible to infection? Yes. For chronic immune deficiency states (repeated infections, severe allergies), consult with an experienced holistic physician who can diagnose and treat the underlying causes and patterns that are specific for you. For mild allergies begin improving your health today by making holistic healthcare a lifestyle choice. Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy provide life-promoting nutritional medicines that improve the health and vitality so that you can become more resistant to infection and less hypersensitive to the natural environment. There are many effective over the counter Chinese medicines and clinical homeopathic remedies that safely relieve allergy symptoms while improving overall health.


Three of my favorite Chinese herbal medicines for symptomatic relief of mild to moderate air-borne allergies include:

Dr. Shen’s Allergy Pills: for itchy eyes or skin, runny and stuffy nose

Dr. Shen’s Sinus and Nose Pills: nasal and sinus congestion or sinus headache

Bloom Season Support: for sneezing, post nasal drip, watery eyes, facial congestion


Homeopathic remedies for symptomatic relief of mild allergies to pet dander, pollen, hay fever, dust, insect bites, medications and food include:



Liddell Allergy: sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, post nasal drip, itchy eyes, rash, sinus discomfort

Liddell Sinus Congestion & Headache: sneezing, stuffy or congested nose, discharge, sinus pain, headache, throat inflammation


One of my favorite Chinese formulas for improving immunity (good support for those with seasonal or chronic allergies) is:



Dong Chong Xia Cao (cordyceps): used historically as a daily tonic to help the body build strength, improve breathing and lung function and strengthen the immune system



All these formulas have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-biotic properties. Dr. Shen's brand formulas contains no drugs, dyes, pharmaceuticals, animal products, or unlisted ingredients and contain premium grade herbs. You can learn more about these safe and effective remedies by visiting www.e-HolisticHealth.com.

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Homeopathy Successful in 1918 Flu Epidemic


Regarding the very recent outbreak of swine flu in parts of the world,experts say there is no way at this time to contain the spread of thisinfection due to the fact that the virus is unlike any of the flu virusesidentified in 2008 and 2009 and the current flu vaccines do not protectagainst this virus.


Little known fact: Homeopathy Successful in 1918 Epidemic. The mortalityrate of people treated with conventional medicine and drugs during the 1918Flu Epidemic was 28.2%. Those treated by homeopathic physicians had a mortality rate of 1.05%.


Medical reports state that Homeopathy was 98% successful in treating cases during the 1918 epidemic. Ohio reported that 24,000 cases of flu treated allopathically had a mortality rate of 28.2% while 26,000 cases of flu treated homeopathically had a mortality rate of 1.05%. In Connecticut 6,602 cases were reported with 55 deaths, less than 1%. On a troop ship during WWI, 81 cases of flu on crossing to Europe were treated with homeopathic treatment and all recovered. The homeopathic remedies used at that time were Gelsemium and Bryonia. Both remedies are indicated for symptoms of colds &flu (fever, chills, dull headaches, aches, joint pains, nausea, exhaustion).


What can you do to protect yourself from infection and to treat the symptoms should you become infected? Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy provide excellent flu prevention tools that are also used to quickly relieve symptoms associated with any viral infection. Our Winter Tonic homeopathic nremedy consists of the nosodes of every flu virus and flu vaccine from 1918 to the present. The Winter Tonic remedy prepares the immune system for flu virus infections and also hastens the response time of the immune system's fighting power that is required when dealing with actual infection.



Winter Tonic is a very useful flu prevention and treatment remedy to have on hand. At this time it would be prudent to protect your family from possible swine flu infection by using Winter Tonic in the following ways:


4 pellets 1X per week - for prevention

4 pellets 1x per day - if you are concerned that you might be susceptible

4 pellets 4X per day - if you have been exposed and/or experience symptoms
of flu


Other remedies from E-Holistic Health that are useful to have on hand in the
event you experience symptoms of flu include:



Flu-Max

Acute Rescue

Gan Mao Ling

Oscillococcinum



These safe and effective cold and flu remedies are available at the on-line pharmacy of our E-Holistic Health website: www.e-holistichealth.com



Yours in Health,

Toni Krehel, AP

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Swine Flu Prevention


Regarding the very recent outbreak of swine flu in parts of the world, experts say there is no way at this time to contain the spread of this infection due to the fact that the virus is unlike any of the flu viruses identified in 2008 and 2009 and the current flu vaccines do not protect against this virus.

What can you do to protect yourself from infection and to treat the symptoms should you become infected? The Winter Tonic homeopathic remedy is an excellent flu prevention tool that can also be used to quickly relieve symptoms associated with any viral infection. This remedy consists of the nosodes of every flu virus and flu vaccine from 1918 to the present. The Winter Tonic remedy prepares the immune system for any such infection and also improves the response time of the fighting power required when dealing with actual infection.


Winter Tonic is a very useful flu prevention and treatment remedy to have on hand. At this time it would be prudent to protect your family from possible swine flu infection by using Winter Tonic in the following ways:

4 pellets 1X per week – for prevention

4 pellets 1x per day – if you are concerned that you might be susceptible

4 pellets 4X per day – if you have been exposed and/or experience symptoms of flu


Other remedies that are useful to have on hand in the event you experience symptoms of flu include:

Flu-Max

Acute Rescue

Gan Mao Ling

Oscillococcinum

Winter Tonic and the other herbs and homeopathics mentioned above are safe for child and adults, and are available at the on-line pharmacy of our E-Holistic Health website: www.e-holistichealth.com


Monday, April 6, 2009

Alternative to Surgery for Gallbladder Congestion and Stones


Surgery to remove the gallbladder is not the only option for resolving the symptoms of gallbladder congestion and/or stone formation. Unless the organ is so diseased that removal is necessary, it is better to nurse sick and dysfunctional organs back to health because all body parts are there “for a reason”. While modern medicine has decided that we can live without certain “disposable” body parts (such as gallbladders, appendix, tonsils, uterus), the truth is that these “removable” organs play very important roles in the non-specific immunity of the individual. I find that patients are ALWAYS at risk of developing serious immune disorders (including cancers) when they no longer have these vital organs (of course, it is better that these organs BE vital and not diseased).

Gallbladder removal DOES have side effects … a common side effect being pancreatitis … (also weight gain). The gallbladder and pancreas work together in non-specific immunity – when you lose the gallbladder, the work-load for the pancreas becomes greater – thus it become diseased, too. Pancreatic disease is VERY serious – a healthy pancreas keeps cancer cells away. The body is an amazing machine – many people CAN and do live without their gallbladders because -- as with all traumas and diseases -- the body is always adapting and “doing with” what it has in order to keep the life alive. However, “doing without” is not without health consequences … it is better to re-create a healthy functioning gallbladder than it is to remove it.

Gallbladder problems has more to do with underlying conditions such as poor digestion, persistent viral infection, toxicity in the gut, hyperplasia of the bile or pancreatic ducts or liver disease. It is always best to get a full evaluation of what the underlying conditions are, but it is also easy enough to improve digestion (including gallbladder function) with healing/correcting Chinese herbs. Improving digestion does not necessarily require a full examination or doctor’s prescription. EVERYONE can benefit from flushing the gallbladder, stimulating pancreatic function and cleansing the bowels … and chances are that most diseases would begin to heal if digestion were improved and those digestive organs (liver, gallbladder, stomach, pancreas) were made healthier.

To improve digestive function and resolve gallbladder congestion, I suggest the following protocol (2 and 3 are available on www.e-holistichealth.com and 1 is available by calling (904) 821-9535) :

1. Pancreatrophin – this is a Standard Process glandular food supplement provides the pancreas with the special nutrition it needs to heal itself so that it can produce more pancreatic enzymes (so important in digestion and immunity).

2. Lidan Tablets – this is a classic Chinese herbal formula designed to dissolve congestion (including stones) in the gallbladder and hyperplasia of the bile duct.

3. Gastroquell – this is a modern Chinese herbal formula (based on a classic formula) designed to improve all aspects of the digestive function, and especially useful for gastric pain.

There are many good tools for treating gallbladder problems and it is possible that there are other underlying issues that should be addressed as well. This protocol has been very effective for many people who suffered from frequent gallbladder attacks.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

FAQ's- Homeopathy


Homeopathy is a safe, natural system of medicine that provides relief from suffering for millions ofpeople in nearly every country in the world. It is a therapy based on the principal of stimulating the body to rebalance itself into health – not a therapy based on suppressing symptoms. Homeopathy treats the whole person rather than treating the health condition along.

ARE REMEDIES FDA REGULATED?

Yes. The manufacture and sale of homeopathic medicine is regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been recognized since 1938 in the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of that year. Homeopathic remedies are classified as drugs in the United States.

HOW DO I TAKE THE REMEDIES?

Formulated to pass through the mucous membrane of the mouth and directly in the bloodstream, you simply spray them under your tongue and hold them there for 20 seconds before swallowing. It is best to do this when your mouth is in a natural condition, at least 15 minutes before or after eating.

IS IT SAFE TO TAKE MORE THAN ONE REMEDY AT A TIME?

Yes, it is safe and effective to combine two or more remedies either by spraying the dosages in a glass containing an ounce or two of water or juice, or by spraying them under the tongue, one after the other.

CAN I TAKE THE REMEDIES ALONG WITH OTHER NATURAL REMEDIES OR ALLOPATHIC DRUGS?

Yes, it is safe. In most cases, not only with the effectiveness of the remedy not be adversely affected by other medicines, other natural remedies and medicines will not be affected wither.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE PRODUCTS BE TAKEN?

The products should be taken three times a day: two sprays in the morning, two sprays in the afternoon and two sprays in the evening. Some conditions require additional doses, so please refer to the dosage instructions listed on the product packaging.

IS THE ALCOHOL CONTENT OF THE FORMULAS SAFE?

Yes, unless one is allergic to alcohol. Alcohol is used because it: 1) maximizes efficacy; 2) allows for quicker absorption into the body; and 3) prevents the possibility of contamination. We use organic non-GMO alcohol made from corn. Most of our products contain 20% organic alcohol, although there are a few that have a higher percentage.

SHOULD I EXPECT ANY NEGATIVE SIDE EFFECTS WHEN TAKING THE REMEDIES?

No, you should experience no negative side effects. However, if your body reacts very quickly to a particular remedy, it is possible to feel some signs of mild discomfort. This is a positive indication that the remedy is working. Should this occur, simply reduce the number of sprays in half. The dosage can then be increased to normal after three days.

CAN I OVERDOSE WITH REMEDIES?

No, homeopathic remedies have been around for more than 200 years and are the safest medicines known to mankind.

ARE HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES SAFE FOR CHILDREN?

Homeopathic medicines are almost invariably safer than their allopathic counterparts. However, some products are intended for adults only. Please be sure to read product “Directions” and “Warnings” for specific information.

CAN THE REMEDIES BE TAKEN WITH COFFEE, TEA OR MINT?

Yes. Remedies are not affected by drinking coffee, tea or eating peppermint, or using peppermint toothpaste. It is however, best to wait 15 minutes before or after eating, and to have your mouth in a natural condition.

WHAT’S THE ONE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU CAN MAKE TAKING ANY OF THESE MEDICINES?

It’s not following the directions! To get the full benefit of homeopathic remedies, you must take two sprays under the tongue three times a day, every day. It takes commitment on your part, but it’s worth it.

HOW SOON DO THE PRODUCTS START TAKING EFFECT?

All products begin working immediately, though the body may not feel the effects right away. Please be guided by the information listed on the product packaging

Thursday, February 26, 2009

SINUS PROBLEMS LINKED TO THE GUT


The link between sinus issues and intestinal problems is related to the structure of the body and to the close relationship between the lungs and the colon. The skin or membrane that lines the wall of the sinus cavities, the respiratory tract and the gastrointestinal tract are ONE in the same ... just as the skin on your arm is the same skin that covers your toes .

The physical body is structured like a donut. A donut has two outside borders - the larger ring and the smaller ring. The outside ring or border around the donut represents the skin that covers the outside of the body. This skin is the protective border located "outside on the outside", and this skin acts as a barrier to the external environment we live in. The ring around the inside hole of the donut represents the skin or mucosal membrane that lines the tube that goes through our body, from the tip of the nose to the rectum - including the lining of all cavities that branch out from that tube (sinuses, mouth, respiratory tract, stomach, intestinal tract). This skin is the protective boarder referred to as the "outside on the inside", and it acts as a barrier to the external environment that comes through or into the inside of the body - where bacteria, pollen, and harmful substances come in via air through the nose and mouth and in the foods that we consume. Thus, skin and mucus membrane share the same protective function and are physically and structurally related, like brother/sister.

In Chinese Medicine the skin is considered an organ - actually, the skin is considered to be part of the lungs. All skin, including mucosal membrane lining the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, is protective yet porous. The skin has a dual purpose. It must protect our sacred body from harmful influences that exist in the outside environment. It is also one of the primary means by which the body absorbs nutrients and eliminates toxic waste and by-products of metabolism. This is especially true of the skin that lines the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. The "wei qi" or "defensive immune system" is located just beneath the epidermis or outer layer of skin. Whenever a harmful substance penetrates through the protective outer layer of the skin, the "wei qi" must spring into action in order to keep the body pure and the vital organs safe from infection. The response of this sophisticated alarm system is always "allergic reaction". All immune responses are allergic responses. Whether the immune system is responding to an incoming virus, bacteria or pollen in the respiratory tract or to a substance that cannot be digested in the gastrointestinal tract (toxic chemicals, foods and foreign objects), the response is always an allergic response.

Most people assume that sinus problems are due to some disturbance in the respiratory tract and/or to an infection from the outside environment. They treat with anti-histamines or antibiotics but find that relief is only temporary. Most sinus problems are actually related to allergies - particularly allergic reactions coming from food and drink in the gut. If your gut is plugged up with stuff that cannot be processed, your nose will be plugged up. If you have an allergy to red wine and it is in your gut, your nose will be plugged up. Most people are unaware that they lack certain enzymes for digesting certain foods. When they consume these foods, they cannot be properly digested. The body's immune system correctly identifies the undigested substances as being toxic, so it creates an allergic response. All allergic responses are inflammatory in nature and always affect the brain and cavities in the head in some way and to varying degrees. A common side effect of an allergic response is fluid accumulation in the cavities of the body. In Chinese Medicine "damp accumulation" is identified as an underlying cause of most diseases. Damp becomes a breeding ground for mold, yeast and other opportunistic invaders.

When Mayo Clinic cultured the sinus cavity of individuals with sinusitis and chronic sinus infections, they found that 96% had chronic fungal infections - not a bacterial infection. Yet most doctors prescribe antibiotics. A large percentage of the sinusitis patients who get prescribed antibiotics have side effects such as gastrointestinal problems, skin rashes or sinus headaches. The internal milieu of the body turns into a toxic waste ground of damp accumulation ... leading to chronic allergies and more damp accumulation in the sinuses, ears, lymph glands, colon and urinary tract.

Whenever there is a disturbance in the gut, there will be a disturbance in the sinuses. When you improve digestion and restore health to the intestinal tract, you will have fewer sinus problems. In Chinese Medicine the goal is ALWAYS to improve immunity. The key to improving immunity is to improve digestion. You cannot have good health without having good digestion first. Good digestion clears damp accumulation. Chinese herbal formulas for acute and chronic sinus problems address the underlying allergic response mechanism triggered by irritants from both the respiratory tract and the digestive tract. Chinese Medicine is good medicine.