Yucca Root for Arthritis, Hyperlipidemia and Rheumatic Pain

by Dr. Judy Griffin

Yucca root (Liliacea species) is a desert plant, Native Americans used for arthritis and rheumatic pain. Desert tribes split the yucca root in two and allowed the root to dry. The dried yucca root was ground into a powder and boiled in water and drunk to alleviate arthritic and rheumatic pain. Collect the roots in the fall.

Arthritic pain is usually local, in a joint, hip, or back. Rheumatic pain can move as the inflammation travels. Yucca root contains natural, vegetable steroids that assist the body in reducing inflammation that causes pain. The high saponin concentrations may suppress intestinal flora involved in joint inflammation.  Yucca root also contains polyphenolics, such as resveratrol, which reduces inflammation and increases longevity by reducing inflammatory nitric oxide. The root also reduces free radicals that cause inflammation. The white colored, inner yucca root has the highest saponin content.

Yucca root forms complexes with abnormal bowel flora making them inert. The soapy-like texture of saponins binds fats in the intestinal tract, reducing LDL’s, cholesterols, and triglycerides. Yucca root also binds ammonia in the colon, reducing liver stress and toxicity, especially from high protein/high fat diets. If constipation is involved with pain or high lipids, yucca root will quickly help correct the imbalance. constipation can be involved in arthritic conditions. Pro-inflammatory microorganisms often interact with intestinal waste to create an environment of illness.

Intestinal microbes are being linked by scientists to many medical conditions, such as cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and chronic inflammatory illness. Arthritis and Rheumatism are created from chronic inflammatory processes. Medicine and even chemo-agents of the future will be or include helpful intestinal bacteria related to a specific illness. These beneficial bacteria may be synthesized from plants such as yucca root, also known as the cassava, manioc or mandioca.

Yucca root is consumed in Africa, Asia, Mexico, South and Central America as a food, boiled steamed or dried and ground into flour.

I tincture a Yucca root herbal, which is a liquid. An alcoholic extraction draws out the medicinal properties into the liquid. The Yucca Root tincture is then diluted in hot water, 15 to 30 drops, and drunk twice daily. The alcohol dissipates in hot water. Yucca root is not recommended for pregnant women.

For more information on Yucca Root: Mother Nature’s Herbal by Judy Griffin PhD.

or visit her website at www.aromahealthtexas.com.

Other aromahealthtexas products to help with pain issues are Stop Suffering and Stop Hurting.

Sources include:

Charles W. Kane, Herbal Medicine of the American Southwest, pp. 214-217

Arthritis pain is one of the most common sources of pain. It affects any “wear and tear” joint, such as knees, hips, back, neck shoulders, fingers and toes. Arthritis is considered a disease of aging. However, it affects every age group when the joint and cartilage break down from joint stress, diet and nutritional deficiencies. Anti-inflammatory and NSAIDS are used for treatment.  Arthritis Pain aromatherapy products may be safely used with other treatments. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks the joints, resulting in swollen, deformed joints, subcutaneous & nodules, joint erosion and a serum RA factor. Rheumatoid arthritis affects any joint at any age. There are several types of rheumatoid arthritis, including systemic lupus, treated by prednisone and much stronger drugs with many side effects. Long-term antibiotic therapy is often a treatment due to an unknown underlying infection. Gout is another form of rheumatoid arthritis often successfully treated by diet.  Arthritis pain aromatherapy works directly with the brain to help ease pain and is a topical complimentary form of dealing with arthritis pain.

One of every four Americans may be suffering from arthritis. Dietary changes can prevent and reduce symptoms substantially. Beef is eaten only once or twice weekly, replaced with fish or fish oil capsules. Fish oil capsule sources must be researched to determine if they are free of mercury. Borage oil decreases swollen joints. Results may occur within eight months. Suggested dosages are 2000 mg daily of fish oil and 1400 mg daily of borage oil. Flaxseed oil also reduces inflammation. Dosage is 3000 mg daily. All of the oils, also known as essential fatty acids, are best taken with meals in divided doses.

Raw pineapple contains bromelain. Eaten raw it also reduces inflammation and swollen joints. A slice can be eaten with a small amount of food or in-between meals. Discontinue if your mouth swells or you experience abdominal pain. Pineapple is too acidic for some people, especially those who have esophageal reflux. Bromelain is available in tablet form. However it is chemically produced and I do not recommend it.

Processed food, high sugar and refined flour intake also increase inflammation. It also stimulates insulin resistance, resulting in Type II Diabetes. Margarine, trans and saturated fats, shortening and grain-fed beef provoke inflammatory processes in the body. Unhealthy fats are best replaced with extra virgin olive oil. It actually can lower inflammatory cytokine levels. Pay the extra money and buy this highest quality olive oil. A detailed description of how olive oil is produced is available in Mother Nature’s Herbal.

A healthy diet includes grass-fed beef and poultry, fish, and whole grains in moderation. Nuts and seeds may be included if irritable and/or inflammatory bowel is not present. Sauté vegetables in olive oil and avoid fried foods. Eating mercury-free fish a few times weekly can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis 20 to 40%. A healthy diet is described in detail in Slice of Life Nutrition and Dietary Manual, including information to obtain optimal nutrition through diet.

Exercise can also help reduce and prevent arthritic pain and swelling. Moderate amounts of regular low intensity exercise in a pool or with a physical therapist will increase resistance to disease.

There are several topical products that reduce inflammation and increase circulation. Stop Hurting massaged on the affected area two to three times daily is most helpful. Small areas, like fingers and toes, are helped most by No Aches massaged onto the joints or back of the knees 3 times daily. The Deep Massage alleviates painful stiff joints assuring long lasting relief. Circulation Booster lotion aids rheumatoid arthritis symptoms alternated with the Stop Hurting. Strengthen the Back is a sweet almond oil blend used for the lumbar, low back and hip area. It also supports muscular strength for those with chronic low back and arthritic pain. Stop sufferingtherapeutic blend reduces chemicals produced from pain, stress, trauma and emotional feelings associated with pain. It works synergistically with the pain lotions and aromablend.

One quarter of Americans are suffering from osteo arthritis. Inflammation of the joints causes pain and weakening of the bones. Arthritis can be crippling and often lead to replacement of the knees and hips. Arthritis pain aromatherapy products are topical, non-invasive and work directly with the limbic brain to help reduce and may stop the pain altogether.  Do you want to Stop Hurting from constant arthritis pain?  Aromatherapy pain products may be the solution you have been seeking.

  Arthritis has many causes and few cures.  Stop Hurting lotion increases circulation, reduces deformity and inflamation encourage healing to the arthritic site. This pain aromatherapy product  removes metabolic waste that causes inflammation.

  Apply Stop Hurting lotion to any painful area  3 times daily ,or as often as needed to reduce symptoms ,and experience your body's ability to heal itself.

  Continue to nurture your body with 6 cups or more of fresh fruits and vegetables, raw and cooked daily to increase overall health. Raw pineapple, especially eaten between meals, contains bromelain enzyme. Bromelain reduces inflammation and subsequent pain of arthritis. Eat 2 or 3 1 inch cubes 3X daily to enhance healing. Your body only knows how to heal, so give it only the best of Mother Nature's bounty of organic foods. Recipes are available in How to Master Special Diets, Mother Nature's Herbal and Mother Nature's Kitchen.

Aromatherapy for Weight, Diabetes and Heart Disease

by Dr. Judy Griffin

A recent study* by the USDA research agency at Beltsville, Maryland indicates a water soluble extract from cinnamon contains antioxidants that can reduce health problems from diabetes and heart disease. This cinnamon extraction is available in a nontoxic aromatherapy topical product called Weight. This therapeutic aromablend has been used in hospitals with patients suffering from diabetes, heart conditions and diabetes during pregnancy. Weight can be used with medications and supplementation to help normalize blood sugar and bodily functions associated with heart disease and diabetes. Many patients experienced less desire to overeat or eat sugary and high fat foods, resulting in weightloss.

Cinnamon has been used by ancient cultures for hundreds and thousands of years to improve cardiovascular health and normalize blood sugar. Mexicans drink a cinnamon tea to promote cardiovascular health and improve circulation. (Mother Nature’s Herbal, Judy Griffin, PhD., p.59) Chinese and Asians use cinnamon to improve circulation, digestion, lower back pain, cramps and bronchial wheezing. (Mother Nature’s Kitchen, Judy Griffin, PhD., pages 71 & 220) Ancient Ayurvedic Indians used cinnamon with other seasonal spices to replace meats in vegetarian dishes. These foods are used to treat a variety of ailments and release serotonin, a relaxing neurochemical in the brain. Africans, Moroccans, and Algerians use cinnamon in a very spicy, hot chile curry to “cool” the cardiovascular system after an initial cleanse of perspiration. (Mother Nature’s Herbal, Judy Griffin, PhD., pages 197-212) 

Cinnamon, Cinnamon cassia, sticks contain chromium, a mineral that may help regulate blood sugar. Chromium is deficient in soil in the Western World. The newly discovered antioxidant properties of cinnamon show promise in complementary, self healing therapy, ingested or inhaled. Inhalation reaches the bloodstream quickly, as the oxygen-rich blood cells circulate throughout the bloodstream. Inhalation, as in the Weight aromatherapy product (found atwww.aromahealthtexas.com,) can impact the brain in 1/100th of a second, affecting the neuroendocrine and blood sugar hormones.

Whether you inhale or ingest this aromatic spice, it can initiate a self healing process beneficial to you.

To order Weight or for more information please visit www.aromahealthtexas.com or call Dr. Griffin at 1-800-496-2125

Weightloss Studies and Aromatherapy

            With thousands of studies about weightloss, the bottom line is willpower. It is the #1 key to success that seems to be lacking in many overweight individuals. Aromatherapy blends such as our Petite fleur Essences are specific for catalyzing you fullest potential in every situation.  Using aromatherapy may increase one's stamina, cravings, and determination to stay on a healthy eating plan with the use of such aromatherapy blends as 

Inner Strength 

Cravings and Weight

Grapefruit, Citrus paradisi, reduces appetite and stimulates fat metabolism and peristalsis.  It is an important essential oil for weight reduction.  Grapefruit also helps reduce inches, making it a perfect choice for summer fitness.  The grapefruit is believed to evolve from a Caribbean fruit, known as the shaddock. Today, grapefruit is grown commercially in the United States, Israel and parts of South America.  The ruby red, or pink variety, is preferred by aromatherapists and perfumers for its excellent, uplifting aroma. Essential oil is machine expressed from the peel of ripe fruit.  The aroma stimulates neurotransmitters resulting in a euphoric antidepressant effect.  It is a great essential oil to use when life is too much, or self doubt overtakes good thoughts and affirmations.  Just open the bottle of grapefruit and let the aroma lift you.

Good Morning Fragrance

In ½ ounce of jojoba oil, add the following essential oils:

                        15 drops Grapefruit, Pink

                          5 drops of Sweet Orange

                        10 drops of Neroli

                          3 drops of Styrax benzoin

            Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting cap.

Allow to cure overnight, or up to 3 days.  Adjust the blend to “taste”.  Apply a drop to each temple and massage the oil into the hair near the temples.  Apply another 2 drops to the throat or neck, massage gently and enjoy the day.  Refrigerate blend and all the citrus essential oils.  Use the blend and essential oils within 6 months.  The blend will continue to marry over the following 3 weeks.  After completion, adjust the blend adding more of any of the desired essential oils.  Note:  Styrax benzoin has an amber aroma.  It is an excellent “fixative”, or base note for an aroma blend.  It dissolves easily in alcohol, which can be substituted for jojoba oil.  Best to use perfume alcohol, 190 proof.

Grapefruit is an excellent detoxifying essential oil.  The main effect is on the liver, claming irritable moods or angry outbursts.  In the body, grapefruit encourages lymphatic drainage.  It stimulates peristalsis, reducing constipation and sluggish elimination.  In a detoxification program, use it as massage oil and combine it with bath salts.  Grapefruit blends well with other citrus oils, palmarosa, rosewood, ginger and rosemary.

Detoxifying Massage Blend

            In 2 ounces of carrier oil, combine the following essential oils:

                        30 drops of Pink Grapefruit

                          2 drops of Ginger root

                          5 drops of Rockrose

                          5 drops of Lemon or Lemongrass

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure 3 hours or overnight.  Massage the limbs, moving towards the heart.  Then massage the back and front of the torso using brisk, circular, clockwise motions.  Apply cool packs to the back if it comforts the recipient.  Refrigerate remaining blend and use within 6 months.

Refreshing Foot Massage: If you enjoy foot massage, you will love using this blend during the hot summer months.  The addition of lime makes this blend a great deodorant.

            In 1 ounce of sesame oil, add the following essential oils:

                        10 drops of Grapefruit

                        20 drops of Lime

                          2 drops of Sandalwood

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting screw cap.  Allow to cure for 3 hours or overnight.  Slowly massage the blend onto the bottom of the feet, ankles and top of the feet.  Watch the recipient melt into a blissful relaxed state of mind.  Refrigerate any leftover blend and use within 6 months.

Bath salts are fun to make and even more enjoyable to experience.  Here’s one children will love, big “kids” too!

Fruity Bath Salt Blend: In a 1 quart glass jar with a screw cap, blend 2 cups each of Epsom salts and Dead Sea salts.  These salts are detoxifying for the muscles, joints and skin.  Add the following essential oils to reduce muscle cramps, promote relaxation and a good mood.  Stir and mix well:

                        10 drops of Pink Grapefruit

                        20 drops of Tangerine, Citrus Madurensis

                        10 drops of honey or Honey oil absolute

                          5 drops of Sandalwood

Cap tightly and allow curing for 10 days.  Add a cup of salts to a tub of warm water.  Stir the water with your hand to blend and dissolve the salts.  Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.  Avoid splashing the eyes.  Store leftover salts in a cool, dark place.  Use within 3 months for best results.

Grapefruit also detoxifies cellulite, removes excess fluid, and prevents fluid retention.  It has a tonic effect on the skin and tissues.  Massage this blend onto the skin you’d like to tighten and tone to enhance summer fun.

Cellulite Blend: In 1 ounce of jojoba oil, or double distilled witch hazel, add the following essential oils:

                        10 drops of Grapefruit (Pink grapefruit smells the best)

                        10 drops of Mandarin, Citrus riticulata

                          1 drop of Nutmeg, Myristica fragrance

                          1 drop of Coriander

Bottle in dark glass with a tight fitting cap.  Allow to cure overnight in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place. Briskly massage onto clean, dry skin.  Repeat, rubbing several drops onto the affected area.  Cover with a warm, moist towel.  Repeat daily, if desired.  Refrigerate leftover blend.  Use within 3months.  It is best to make small amounts of this blend.  Cellulite can take weeks to months to remove.  There is a tendency to accumulate cellulite in the same areas.  Use this blend to prevent further accumulation.

To order these essential oils, or a weight blend, go to www.aromahealthtexas.com

Gluten Free Diet

A gluten free diet has helped many clients with Crohn’s and colitis. Results for many irritable bowel clients and asthmatics have also been noticed. The proteins in gluten are large and difficult to digest for many people. Some people carry 1 or 2 genes for Celiac’s and their symptoms improve with a gluten free diet. Celiac sufferers can experience symptoms at any time of their life, due to unusual stress, as gene expression turns on and off during a lifetime of stressors. When a Crohn’s client does not respond to meds and other therapies, I suggest a gluten free diet. For those who continue to eat gluten foods, there are special enzymes released in the small intestine to help digest glutens. 

I create special blends for Crohn’s and colitis people. However, Allergy blend and Inner Strength blend are essence aroma blends to help balance and promote immune strength. For many people, these are life long foals. A gluten free diet may be necessary to support immune health. Rose Campion Petite fleur helps for those with a genetic condition.

The “cure” always involves personal responsibility and immune balancing therapy.

Consult, questions or orders  www.aromahealthtexas.com or 1-800-496-2125.

Weight Control and Your Psyche

Losing and keeping weight within normal limits is more difficult for some people than healing from a major illness. Food has a psychological control for a variety of reasons. Mother’s cooking always tops the list. However, very few kids were actually forced to eat unhealthy foods. If weight is a problem in your adult life, approach weight loss as an adult.

Portion control is a key to any diet. It helps to balance the insulin response. When blood sugar is imbalanced, a feeling of gnawing hunger causes overeating and leaves the feeling of not being satisfied. Low stress vegetables, also low in calories, whole grains and bulking agents taken before or after a meal signal the brain to stop eating.

Weight is an aromahealthtexas aromatic, topical aid to balance blood sugar and balance the endocrines.

Compulsive eating is associates with obsessive compulsive behavior. It is associated with low serotonin levels and/or lack of receptors to produce neuro-chemicals to quiet desires. Stress eating is often described as a reason for non-stop eating. Cravings is an aromahealthtexas aid for reducing compulsive eating. Knotted Marjoram Petite Fleur Essence aids obsessive compulsive behavior.

Stress also affects thyroid/adrenal response. Lower metabolism reduces proper digestion, energy and may result in weight gain. Toxic Thyroid is an aromahealthtexas topical product to protect thyroid function and lessen the effect of pollutants that reduce proper function. Those who prefer sweets have a propensity to thyroid stress.

Those who prefer fats, alcohol and creamy foods have an endocrine imbalance that involves the pituitary. This is a master endocrine gland in the brain, lodged behind the nose. Cherokee Rose is a Petite Fleur Essence antique rose that promotes endocrine balance affecting the pituitary and subsequently the liver functions involving cholesterol and essential fatty acids and phosphatydlcholine to produce sufficient neuro-chemicals.

Emotions are neuro-chemicals produced in the limbic brain. They limbic brain stores memories and data about everything you have learned. These memories are associated with natural scent. Aromatherapy, from distilled organically grown aromatic plants, has the ability to affect brain chemistry in 1/100th of a second. Nothing affects us so quickly.

Essential oils and flower essences support the psychological demands of the personality. The stress behind overeating and choosing the wrong foods must be successfully addressed. Having a success consciousness about everything you do supports healthy weight loss and management.

Self Image aromahealthtexas supports self improvement and a deep feeling of self satisfaction in everything you achieve. 

Pink Rose and Country Marilou antique roses help us to think thin and release uncomfortable feelings about the body.

Various forms of abuse during childhood and as an adult can also lead to weight gain that is very hard to control. Underlying anger is soothed by the Abate Anger aromahealthtexas blend. Japanese Magnolia Petite Fleur Essence releases feelings of being victimized.

There are many healthy diet plans to support weight loss and maintenance. There are over 150 Aromahealthtexas Blends and Petite Fleur Essences to support psychological triggers and promote peace of mind. Books include Slice of Life Nutrition and Diet Handbook, How to Master Special Diets and Flowers that Heal.

For more information go to www.aromahealthtexas.com

For a personal consultation, call Dr. Judy Griffin at 1-800-496-2125