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Working in the agriculture sector has become fruitful for me because I get to earn enough doing the things that I love, which is farming and everything related about soil and the environment. For many years, I have seen how people in my area get busy with the preparation of land, growing of the crops healthily, and harvesting of the fruits of our labour. To me, life can be very happy this way. However, I started to feel pain in my upper and lower back. If I am right, the pain has become bothersome since two months ago. During the first weeks, I tried to ease the pain using warm bath and light relaxation massage. But during the last two weeks, the pain has become severe that there are nights I find it difficult to sleep. As a result, there are days at work that I feel sleepy and less productive. This pushed me to consider the suggestion of my neighbour. He said that acupuncture for back pain is effective and does wonders to the body.   

One Saturday, while on a break from farm work, I visited my neighbour and asked them more about acupuncture. On our conversation, I learned that it involves the use of very fine, long and sterile needles. These are then inserted to specific points of the body. The points where the needles are to be inserted depend on the health condition of the person.

My neighbour who is also a farm worker told me that his first session of acupuncture is unforgettable because it gave him a very relaxed and calming feeling. He said that was afraid of the thought of so many needles being inserted into the skin. But when he actually experienced it, it was not how he thought it to be. It was not painful. It was like there are light currents of electricity that relaxes the nerves and muscles. His stories got me more interested and excited. Before I left his house, he told me about the acupuncture treatment at his favourite chinese medicine clinic. It is where he learned more relevant information about acupuncture. It is also where he had his first session of the traditional Chinese method of healing.    

When I got back home, I reflected upon the conversation I had with my neighbour. I told myself that I should never let the opportunity of trying acupuncture just pass by. Like what he said, it is not painful and actually very relaxing. I followed his advice that I should look for the clinic over the Web to have more knowledge about acupuncture and the Freedom Chinese Medicine’s skilled practitioners. So I went in front of our computer and surfed the Web. I took some time to read about the background of the institution. Because I was happy and satisfied with what I have learned, I scheduled an appointment with them the next day.  

When already inside the clinic, I was a little bit tensed because maybe it was my first time. But then, when the receptionist has greeted me already and welcomed me warmly, the tensions in my body started to subside. Then, I was instructed to follow the practitioner to whom I can consult with. During the consultation, I learned that the body has more than 2,000 points that are all connected by meridians or pathways. These pathways create the smooth flow of Qi or energy. Pronounced as “chee”, Qi is an energy that keeps the normal function of the body. However, when there is imbalance, the body suffers from unhealthy conditions, ailments and diseases. The practitioner clarified to me that the needles, when inserted into the different points, work to restore the balance of Qi inside the body. In this way, any unhealthy condition can be treated gradually and safely. 

I shared my condition that I have been having sever upper and lower back pains, which have been giving me sleepless nights. The acupuncture practitioner gladly showed me the different points of the body where he can insert the needles to help relieve back pains. However, he also pointed out that one session is not enough. I must visit the clinic several times. He also said that I should not abuse my body. I should not overwork it and I must take rests when need. In addition, I should sleep at least eight hours and must follow a healthy diet.

After the first session, I was totally amazed with how I felt. It was like I didn’t feel any pain on my back at all. I felt very loose and relaxed and it seemed like I can do a whole day of work again without getting too tired.  

Now, it’s been a month since I had my first session of acupuncture and I can say that there is a huge difference now. I don’t regret that I tried acupuncture.

Herbs are excellent in the kitchen especially when used by a highly skilled chef who truly understands the unique attributes and characteristics of these herbs. What you may not know is that many of the common-looking herbs you can find on the side of the road or perhaps on your neighbor’s backyard actually have a lot of health benefits. In some countries, several herbs have been systematically grown because of their proven medicinal properties. Some of these have been shown to be effective against some common ailments such as upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, burns, skin infections, and gastrointestinal problems.

If you want to learn more about the different herbs that have medicinal or health benefits you can logon to the Essential Health Foods FB page for more information. Alternatively you can get in touch with them through their Contact Us page.

Nevertheless, here are some of the world’s garden herbs that have been proven to provide excellent health benefits.

• Aloe Vera – This beautiful yet prickly-edged, cactus-like herb has many health benefits including the treatment of chronic constipation, skin allergies, digestive problems, minor burn injuries, ulcerative colitis, eczema, and wounds and cuts. Aloe vera is an excellent skin moisturizer and as such are known to be excellent for improving skin conditions.

• Basil – A mainstay in Italian tomato-based sauces, this aromatic herb (Ocimum basilicum) is not only full of flavor; it is also full of medicinal benefits that can include the management of gas, wounds, abrasions, and cuts. Known as the King of Herbs, basil has been shown to contain very powerful antioxidants which can play an important role in cancer prevention. Additional studies show that basil may be used as a supplementary treatment for asthma, diabetes, and stress. 

• Fenugreek – Officially known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, this mainstay herb of Indian dishes is excellent for the management of diabetes as well as in helping breastfeeding mothers to produce more milk for their babies. In certain parts of the world, fenugreek is used as a regulator of weight. 

• Lemon Balm -Officially known as Melissa officinalis, the lemon balm has been a mainstay in Austrian traditional medicine as treatment for a variety of diseases of the gastrointestinal system including the liver and the gall bladder. Some nervous system disorders have also been shown to be managed with lemon balm. In other countries, lemon balm has been extensivel used in the management of depression, insomnia, headaches, fever, stomach upset, and cough and cold.

• Marsh Mallow – The plant from which your favorite picnic barbecue treat is made from, the roots, leaves, and flowers of the marsh mallow plant, known scientifically as Althaea officinalis, has been shown to be an excellent treatment for gastric ulcers as well as mouth and throat ulcerations. Additionally, it has been shown to be quite good in treating insect bites, skin inflammations, wounds and bruises, and aching muscles. 

• Parsley – One of the most common herbs used in culinary masterpieces either as an ingredient or as garnishing, parsley or Petroselinum crispum, has been shown to contain certain flavonoids and antioxidants that are beneficial in the provision of optimum health. Additionally, parsley contains folic acid, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, lycopene, lutein, beta- and alpha- carotene, and zeaxanthin. Flavonoids have been extensively studied in their ability to reduce inflammation, prevent certain cancers, possess antibacterial properties, and reduce mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases. 

• Peppermint – A member of the mint family, peppermint or Metha piperita has been extensively used in the management of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint has been commonly used to mitigate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting, indigestion, bloating, and abdominal pain. In some cases, peppermint has been shown to be quite effective in improving memory and enhancing alertness although additional studies may need to be undertaken. 

• Pot Marigold -Also known as Common Marigold or Garden Marigold or its scientific name Calendula officinalis, pot marigold is a beautiful ornamental flowering plant that has so many health benefits. It is excellent for the management of hyperthermia, varicosities, infections, wounds, insect bites, and sore eyes. 

• Sage – This slight peppery and savory herb, Salvia officinalis, often used in fish and meat dishes, has been shown in studies to be effective in improving the cognitive and behavioral functioning of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Other more common health indications of sage include optimum digestion and the management of menopausal symptoms, periodontal diseases, and skin infection. 

• Thyme – This aromatic herb excellent for steaks, and a cousin of an equally aromatic herb the oregano, is also good for relieving pulmonary congestion enabling the individual to breathe more optimally. Additionally, thyme is often indicated in the management of cough and bronchitis as well as the build-up of gas.

These are just some of the garden herbs you might want to grow in your own backyard. If you are not sick, you can always use some of these for other purposes especially in concocting a delicious and nutritious meal for your family.

Despite advancements in the dental care industry, millions of people around the globe still suffer from tooth loss – mostly due to injury, gum disease or simple tooth decay. Over the years, the most common treatment options provided are dentures and bridges. Through constant studies and innovation in dental health, dental implants in Melbourne VIC area is now an innovative approach in addressing the issue of missing teeth.

Basically, dental implants replace the missing tooth in such a way that an artificial tooth is inserted into the gums and into the bone. For those whose teeth are missing, dental implants can be an option; however, you ought to know some important facts first before completely acquiring the procedure. Read more and find out.

Dental implants require a greater financial investment.

Dental implants are factually more expensive than any other kind of dental procedure. Apart from the durability of the material, such procedure requires skills and expertise. Knowing that the budget is high, patient and dentist must have a thorough discussion about the how the procedure is undertaken and what effects can be expected in the future.

There is a need for minor surgical procedure to create a fixed foundation for the implant.

Just like the principle of a screw being embedded into wood or any hard surface, dental implants follow the same. Actually, a minor procedure has to be facilitated in order to drill a tiny hole where the artificial tooth will be inserted. This may sound scary, but there is nothing to worry about because the patient will be under complete anesthetic administration.

Implants create a feeling of ‘dead tooth’ as there are no nerves attached to it.

Dental implants are generally artificial in format. There is no sensation felt when the implant is embedded into gums and bone. However, the same holds true with other options such as dentures and bridges.

Dental implants require maintenance on the part of the patient and occasionally by the dental specialist.

Just like other natural teeth in the oral cavity, dental implants also need some cleaning. On this note, regular brushing and flossing are still required. In the case of breaking or chipping, patient needs to see a dentist ASAP. Without any problem, it is also recommended to see the dentist occasionally so that the implant’s condition can be checked and estimated for its validity period.

Dental implants can be done at any age.

Tooth loss can happen to a person at any age. However, it is best applied to patients who fall under the ages of 16 to 86. For as long as the oral cavity is healthy and good dental hygiene is practiced with no pre-existing conditions, the patient can be a good candidate for dental implant. The dentist can determine this after a full detailed examination.

You can’t get cavities with dental implants.

Since dental implants are artificial in form, there is no possibility for tooth decay. Despite the growth of bacteria within the implant, the material will not rot or deteriorate because of its durable composition. Interestingly, dental implants are made of titanium which is a material used in NASA space crafts. Titanium alloy and titanium are known to be lighter and stronger than steel. This is an assurance that the implant can last a lifetime.

These facts mentioned are here to help you decide on whether or not to proceed with the implant. For as long as you are in the hands of a certified, highly skilled dental practitioner, you are assured of excellent care and treatment. When in doubt, always seek a second or third opinion because acquiring more information helps you weigh the pros and cons.