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Late Summer
Late Summer is considered the "dog day afternoons" when in late August and "Indian Summer" are hotter and damper days rich in humidity and a feeling of heaviness in the air. This often parallels the way our bodies feel during this period.
Dampness is associated with the element earth and is most active in late summer. Ailments of excessive dampness can be induced by sudden exposure to fog or mist, immersion in water or exposure to rain, and living in excessively damp locations or climates. The surface pores on the body are open. Because summer is humid, the pathogenic factors, which cause diseases in this season always mix with dampness. The symptoms include excessive fluids in the body with symptoms of abdominal bloating, abdominal pains, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, intestinal spasms, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of thirst, feeling of heaviness, heaviness in the chest or being sluggish and stiff, aching or sore joints - are characteristically heavy and sluggish in nature and tend to block the flow of energy throughout the body.
Damp Heat is a condition of dampness and heat combined with symptoms of thick yellow secretions and phlegm such as jaundice, hepatitis, urinary problems, or eczema.
"Inner-dampness" is caused by excess cold consumption of liquor, tea, cold melons, and sweet, greasy foods. These impede spleen functions.
The Spleen and Stomach
In Chinese Medicine, the spleen and stomach are associated with Late Summer. They belong to the element of Earth. The stomach's function is to rot and rippen food and break it down for transportation. The spleen's functions: transform and transport foods and body fluids to make ready for absorption. The spleen raises our (Qi) energy up. The spleen controls the blood and keeps it in the vessels. The spleen also nourishes the muscles.
Signs and symptoms of poor spleen function include dizziness, pale complexion, low energy, prolapse of organs such as the rectum (hemmorhoids) and uterus. Spontaneous bleeding, muscle weakness and muscle atrophy can all be due to problems with the spleen.
Signs and symptoms of poor stomach function are numerous. Stomach heat manifests as too much heat in the stomach and is represented by bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, burning sensation in the stomach, extreme thirst, frontal headaches and/or mouth ulcers.
The spleen transforms the ingested food and drink to extract the Qi. The function of transformation and transportation is crucial in the process of digestion and the formation of Qi and blood. If this function is impaired there may be a poor appetite, poor digestion, abdominal distention and loose stools. The spleen separates the usable part of fluids from the unusable. If this process is impaired there can be an accumulation of dampness, phlegm, and/or edema. The Spleens ability to transform and transport can be adversely affected by the excessive consumption of cold drinks and raw foods. The action of chewing prepares food for the Spleen to transform and transport. If Spleen-Qi is abnormal, there may be an impairment of the sense of taste or the presence of an abnormal taste , lack of appetite and the lips may be pale and dry. If the Spleen has heat a person may complain of a sweet taste in the mouth and have dry lips.
The stomach transforms food and drink by the process of fermentation. This prepares the ground for the Spleen to separate and extract the refined essence from food. After transformation in the Stomach the food is passed down to the Small Intestine for further separation and absorption.
The Stomach together with the spleen is responsible for transporting food essences to the whole body, especially the limbs. If Stomach Qi is strong a person will feel strong and full of energy. Stomach Qi also ensures that the Qi of the organs reaches the pulse. A pulse with good stomach Qi is said to be neither weak or strong with yin and yang harmonized and it has a regular, slow beat.
The stomach is responsible for the coating on the tongue. A thin white coating on the tongue indicates the Stomach is functioning properly. The absence of coating indicates that the stomach's function of digestion is impaired. A thick white coating reflects either cold or dampness and a thick yellow coating indicates heat.
Consider a healthy, nutritional diet, getting good quality sleep and moderate exercise this can keep our physical form at it's best, always. Need help? Consider Traditional Chinese Medicine , herbal medicine or homeopathic medicine.
The Earth Element
The element, Earth is associated with the Late Summer season and with dampness.
The element is associated with the spleen (pancreas) and stomach and related to the mouth.
Emotionally, this element is associated with nurturing. Intuition is believed to begin in the area of our Solar Plexus Chakra. Although, the Third Eye Chakra is most associated with intuition, the "spark" is what is felt in the area of our solar plexus and stomach. This being the biggest nerve center in our body connected to almost all the organs, the solar plexus is often where we consider our "gut" feeling to come from. This is also where the connection between the three lower Chakra interchange with the four higher Chakra energy centers.
Those who are "earthy" are considered disciplined, premeditative, conventional and dependable. They are often responsible, methodical, and concerned with details. They can count on being grounded, savvy, practical and good at following regulations and procedures.
Emotionally when earth is imbalanced, it can either cause excess worry or pensiveness. The trait of "over thinking" is a spleen/stomach issue and can affect our entire being. Worry can consume the body and express itself as stagnation.
Physically, when the earth element is imbalanced, feelings that affect the stomach are common. The "knot" in the stomach or "plum pit Qi" (a tightening of the throat), nausea, vomiting, pain, ulcers (that eat away) are all the result of this imbalance.
Worry
Worry can only serve you well if you worry and recognize that a plan of action is needed, in a stressful situation and then you act on it.
Sympathy and nurturing are traits that make up an earth personality, but excessive worry becomes a state of restlessness and agitation, producing mental uneasiness, foreshadowing, anxiety, and painful uncertainty. The "what if" syndrome is a constant pattern that is played out in the mind of someone who worries too much. The emotional aspect of earth can carry a deep sense of emptiness. This tends to make worry or over thinking even worse. This downward spiral creates a destructive behavior that makes the earth personality seek out constant reassurance and a sense of neediness. Worry is a destroyer of the soul. Left unchecked, worry lends itself to hysteria.
Every system in your body is affected by worry. It affects the respiratory system and aggravates asthma. Since the lungs are related to the skin, it affect the skin by causing rash, itching or hives. It affects the circulatory system raising blood pressure, increasing blood clotting and your risk of heart attack and stroke. Muscle tension can lend itself to headaches, a href="back_pain.htm">back and body aches. Of course, the related organ, the spleen and stomach, will increase stomach acid, affect your intestines and can lead to stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas or heartburn. Since much of the immune system is apart of the digestive tract, there is growing evidence that suggests chronic worry can compromise your immune system, making you more vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, and perhaps even cancer.
Stop The Worry
1. Worry is a viscous cycle that you create. Stop the mental chatter. Think about something else.
2. Get active in something else: Do volunteer work, clean the house, interact with a charity, church or community group.
3. Work with those less fortunate: This often shows you how lucky and grateful you should really be.
4. Issues of control: need to be let go of. "I trust that everything will work itself out the way it should be". This should be your mantra. Trust can be a powerful and giving action. "Everything will be okay"!
5. Talk Therapy: whether it is with your best friend, a therapist of a perfect stranger, sometimes expressing your concerns is all you need to get it out and on the table.
6. Do something you enjoy: preferably with a friend. Someone who can show you reality. A friend can ground you and show you the fun you are lacking and the worry, which consumes you.
7. Exercise: is one of the best ways to push through stress, anxiety and will make you sweat, burn calories and improve feelings of depression.
8. Calm your mind: by doing some deep breathing, yoga or meditation. Close your eyes and put your mind into a tranquil, peaceful setting that allows you to wander and invite a sense of serenity.
9. Know the difference between a situation over which you have control and one over which you have no control. This will make all the difference in how you handle something.
10. Let go: If you have done all that you can do to rectify your situation, it is time to leave it in greater hands. The Universe truly takes care of your needs. You simply have to ALLOW this to happen.
Essential Oils and Insects
Many essential oils exist that have uses as pesticides such as citrus oils, mint oil, pine oil, capsicum (pepper) extracts, tree oils and vegetable oils. The essential oil of Bergamot, Anise, Sage, Tea tree, Geranium, Mint, and Thyme, Hyssop, Rosemary, Thyme, and White Clover can be used to control certain pests on plants. They have been shown to reduce the number of eggs laid and the amount of feeding damage by certain insects, particularly lepidopteran caterpillars.
Sprays made from Tansy have demonstrated a repellent effect on imported cabbageworm on cabbage, reducing the number of eggs laid on the plants. Teas made from Wormwood or Nasturtiums are reputed to repel aphids from fruit trees, and sprays made from ground or blended Catnip, Chives, Feverfew, Marigolds, or Rue have also been used by gardeners against pests that feed on leaves.
How to Make: In general, herbal sprays are made by mashing or blending 1 to 2 cups of fresh leaves with 2 to 4 cups of water and leaving them to soak overnight. Or you can make an herbal tea by pouring the same amount of boiling water over 2 to 4 cups fresh or 1 to 2 cups dry leaves and leaving them to steep until cool. Strain the water through a cheesecloth before spraying and dilute further with 2 to 4 cups water. Add a very small amount of non-detergent liquid soap (1/4 teaspoon in 1 to 2 quarts of water) to help spray stick to leaves and spread better. You can also buy commercial essential herbal oils and dilute with water to make a spray. Experiment with proportions, starting with a few drops of oil per cup of water.
How to Use: Spray plants thoroughly, especially undersides of leaves, and repeat when necessary. Do not use more than once a week on some plants.
Some common botanical pesticides made from essential plant oils are listed below:
Canola Oil: Canola oil is an edible vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of two species of rape plants, Brassica napus and B. campestris of the family Cruciferae (mustard family). It is used to control insects on a wide variety of crops. Canola oil is considered safe for human consumption. Scientists believe that canola oil repels insects by altering the outer layer of the leaf surface or by acting as an insect irritant. Canola oil appears to have no adverse effects on humans or the environment.
Catnip Oil: Research by Iowa State University and the US Forest Service announced that nepatalactone, the essential oil in catnip, can be used as a very effective mosquito repellent. The authors stated that nepetalactone is about 10 times more effective than DEET. The researchers believe that catnip repels mosquitoes by an irritant reaction.
How to make: in a hand-held spray bottle, mix 1/4-1/2 tsp. of essential oil of catnip (Nepata cataria), 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol, and 1 cup of water.
How to use: Shake well and then spray lightly on clothing, arms, and legs, being careful to avoid eyes or open cuts. Do not use on the skin of small children. Some persons may be sensitive to catnip oil. Keep the contents of the spray away from children and pets.
Cedarwood Oil: Cedarwood oil is often used in mothproofing, and may contribute to the control of certain other insects. The US Army tested various forms of cedar, including cedar chips, cedar oil and sachet bags of cedar shavings. Their conclusions were that cedar works best in confined spaces such as clothes storage bins, but had little effect in other applications. A commercial cedar wood oil spray made by Safers® had little residual effect, but works when applied directly to the pests.
Citronella Oil: Oil of Citronella is a volatile, liquid oil derived from dried cultivated grasses. Citronella has been used for over 50 years as an insect repellent and as an animal repellent. It is found in many familiar insect repellent products: candles, lotions, gels, sprays and towelette wipes for use on clothing and people. These products repel various insects, some of which are public health pests, such as mosquitoes, biting flies and fleas. Citronella is also present in some pellet and tablet products for use around home lawns and gardens to repel dogs and cats. When used according to the label, citronella products are not expected to cause harm to humans, pets or the environment. It works by repelling animals and insects without harming or killing them. It has a distinctive odor, which repels certain animals. In tablet or pellet form it is also used in recreational areas, outdoor household areas, and around trees and shrubs. Animal collars and tags containing citronella are used on pets and other domestic animals to repel fleas and ticks.
Clove Oil: which can be mixed in a spray bottle with warm water and sprayed where ever you do not want bugs to go. This numbing oil is also good when the pain of a bug bite or sting is bothering you.
Cottonseed Oil: Cottonseed oil is generally considered the most insecticidal of the vegetable oils. Several commercial products are available that contain cottonseed oil, however this oil is not generally available for wide spread use.
Neem Oil: Neem oil is extracted from the tropical neem tree, Azadirachta indica, contains insecticidal properties that are composed of a complex mixture of biologically active compounds. It has a strong, slightly garlic-like odor that some people describe as unpleasant. Its various active ingredients act as repellents, feeding inhibitors, egg laying deterrents, growth retardants, sterilants and direct toxins. Neem has both contact and systemic action in plants. The active ingredients biodegrade rapidly in sunlight and within a few weeks in the soil. Neem oil has very low toxicity to mammals. Clarified hydrophobic extracts of neem oil are used to control some fungal diseases of plants. In India, neem products have been used in toothpaste, pharmaceuticals, and as a grain protectant for centuries without apparent harm to humans.
Patchouli Oil: whose botanical name is pogostemom cablin, can be used to stimulate new cell growth, tightens tissues, speeds healing of sores, wounds, reducing body odor, cools fever, and repels insects.
Tea Tree Oil: Keep a spray bottle mixed with 15 drops of Tea Tree Oil and a quart of water to repel insects close by. In the summer ants tend to come in our patio door or along the exposed wall. When that begins, spray this natural Bug Buster several times a day for several days and they'll find somewhere else to go. Natural doesn't work fast like chemicals, but then it doesn't kill a little bit of you either!
Specific Insects and What Works
Ants - Several drops of Peppermint oil may be sprinkled strategically along counters and walls to deter ants. It is very important to test surface area to make sure the oil will not destroy the finish. Water may be used as a base to make up a spray for areas where ants like to gather. Add 4 oz. of water into a spritzer bottle and add 20 drops of Peppermint, Citronella or Spearmint oil to give repelling power.
Cockroaches - Add a few drops of Citronella to cotton and place in the back of cupboard. An additional drop of Peppermint or Lemongrass can be added for extra strength.
Dust Mites - Mix 5 drops of Eucalyptus oil to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. Into a spray bottle add 8 oz. methylated spirits and 40 drops Eucalyptus oil. Add 6 oz. water and lightly spray under beds.
Fleas - Pennyroyal oil is specific against fleas. For a spray, place 20 drops into a spray bottle and add 4 oz. water. One to two extra drops of Cedarwood, Citronella, Lemongrass or Lavender may also be added. Lightly spray your animal (without saturating and avoiding eyes) and its bedding areas.
Use 10 drops of Tea Tree Oil to 8 oz. of water and spray on animal's coat as you rub it in. It will be good for their skin also. This needs to be done daily until the problem is under control in the home. After all fleas are gone you can put it in a spray bottle and give your animal a spritz all over once or twice a day if fleas are in the area.
Flies - Place a handful of dried cloves in a bowl and sprinkle with a few drops of Clove and Lavender, Citronella or Peppermint oil. Recharge with additional oil from time to time.
Mice - Add a few drops of Peppermint, Eucalyptus or Spearmint to cotton and place in the ceiling and anywhere mice might enter the house.
Moth/Silverfish - Add a few drops of Cedarwood to cotton and place in wardrobes and drawers. An extra drop of Spearmint, Lavender, Citronella or Peppermint can be added for reinforcement.
Ticks and Leeches - Apply Tea Tree Oil to the live tick or leech and surrounding skin. Leave for 20 minutes. The tick may fall off. If not, remove it carefully (make certain no part of the tick is left in the skin). Continue applying the oil to the bite three times per day for up to seven days.
First Aid: Insect Bites and Stings
For blue bottles-mozzies-midgies-sandflies
10 drops Lavender oil
into Aloe ointment or gel
Dab directly onto bites or stings for soothing relief.
Insect Repellant Spray
For mozzies-midgies-sandflies
In a Spritzer Bottle
4 oz.water
5 drops Penneyroyal oil
10 drops Citronella
10 drops Lavender
10 Drops Lemongrass
Shake well before using and lightly spray onto exposed skin areas. ****Do not use during pregnancy.
References
1. Bio-Integral Resource Center. 1987. "Update: Neem - A New Era in Pest Control Products?" The IPM Practitioner 9(10). U.S. EPA. 1999.
2. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. EPA 735-R-98-003. Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Washington, DC.
3. National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP). 2002. "Pesticides and You" NCAMP, Washington D.C. Vol. 21, No.4, 2001
4. EPA Biopesticides Factsheets. Plant Oils.
www.epa.gov Remedies for Heat Exhaustion
The summer heat can sneak up on you and not only zap your energy, while you are outdoors, but it can cause dehydration, sunburn and actual exhaustion! Children under four, people over 65, and those who are obese, already ill, or taking medications can especially be affected very easily. prolonged exposure to heat and insufficient body fluid can result in heat exhaustion. Its symptoms can include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness headache and nausea or vomiting. Here are the best remedies for heat exhaustion:
1. Carry water with you and sip it throughout the day. Dehydration can set in and we don't even realize it until we begin to feel thirsty!
2. Pace yourself when working outdoors, exercising or just having fun. Those who participate in regular exercise over time, allowing their bodies to adjust to hot conditions, may better tolerate exercise on hot days.
3. Replace salts and minerals with electolytes such as Gatoraide or other power drinks that have potassium. Avoid drinks with large amounts of sugar. Dehydration can stress the heart and impair the kidneys' ability to maintain the correct level of fluids and balance of electrolyte. Electrolytes are charged elements—like potassium, sodium, phosporous and chloride—essential for the normal function of every cell in the body.
4. Wear lightweight clothing the lighter the colored clothing (white,being ideal) the more sunlight is reflected away from you. Darker colors absorb the light and heat.
5. Seek air conditioning, cool breezes under the shade and/or take cool showers in order to bring down your body temperature.
6. Sunburn can happen very easily if you are not careful. Dilute one part Tea Tree Oil with ten parts of olive oil or coconut oil and spread freely over the affected areas. This is soothing and pain-relieving and to reduce blistering and peeling. People have also applied tea tree oil full strength to sunburn.
7. Use common sense Schedule your outdoor activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day, and use a buddy system if necessary to keep watch on those at high risk.
8. If you feel dizzy and/or stop sweating, quit all activity and get out of the sun fast. Drink cool, not cold water with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in it. The vinegar helps to replace electrolytes and minerals like sports drinks do.
9. In ancient Egypt, China and the Far East, watermelon juice and its seeds were traditionally offered to thirsty travelers, and they are still important today in times of drought or water pollution. This flavorful fruit is one of the best remedies for dehydration and summer heat symptoms, which include thirst without desire to drink, band-like headache, nausea, low appetite, heavy, weighted body sensation, low motivation, sluggish digestion, increased body temperature, sticky sweat, surging pulse, and red tongue with thick white or yellow coating. Watermelon cools and cleanses the system, clearing summerheat and acts as a natural diuretic.
10. Take a cool bath. Run a cool bath and relax in the water for 15-20 minutes. Try to submerge as much of your body as possible.
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