Name: Jill Q. Healthy
Email: JQHEALTHY@yahoo.com
Dear Jill,
Thank you for using, and congratulations on becoming a member of HerbalConsults.com. You have just taken a major step toward empowering yourself so that you are in charge of your health care – because you will possess the information and tools to create your own health. Below you will find a detailed explanation of my findings and a complete, holistic plan on how we can attempt to reduce the burning sensation in your throat, eliminate your constipation, and ease your joint pain.
DIAGNOSIS AND EXPLANATION: It does look as though you have explored every option that conventional medicine has to offer. I agree with the determination that you probably have some level of acid reflux, it is possible for this to present without “heartburn” and from the Chinese perspective your clinical picture is consistent with this, we call it “Stomach yin deficiency” which also accounts for your constipation. I do believe that it is also possible, due to the nature of onset after bad flu like symptoms, that the “post viral damage” idea does hold some water; I would add that it is even possible for this to be responsible in part for your joint pains. I do not believe that the acid reflux medicine is causing the joint pain for two reasons: First, you discontinued it and the pain stopped, only to return later, and second, the medication was discontinued several months ago. This problem fits in with the Chinese idea of “wind damp”, stagnating in the joints.
DIET RECOMMENDATIONS: The diet journal that you sent to me looks outstanding, you have obviously done your homework, and are headed in the right direction, but stick with it, you only just changed your diet six weeks ago and it takes many months to begin to reap those rewards. Be sure to avoid spicy food, fried food, caffeine, and meat (see the diet sheet sent with this E-mail). I believe you should consume more raw vegetables (especially green leafy ones), fruit and their juices; this will help both your throat and constipation. If you have not done so already see our diet and our juicing section, A good juice formula for you right now is: carrot 10oz, spinach 14 oz, celery 6oz, beet 3oz, lettuce 3oz, dandelion 2oz, and turnip tops 2oz. This is a daily dose, which may be divided into separate portions if you wish. Be sure to use black sesame seeds on and with everything you can, sprouts and radish are good for you as well, be sure to see our salads in the diet section!
VITAMIN AND SUPPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS: I believe there is benefit to taking your daily multiple vitamin. I would recommend seeking out a top quality food derived one though; like "vitasynergy for women” available at www.synergy-co.com. It is also important for you to consider taking 1500mgs of Evening primrose oil each day (you may divide this into two doses if you like). Take one acidophilus capsule, 1/2 hour before each meal. Digestive enzymes at the beginning of each meal will also be helpful.
HERBAL FORMULA RECOMMENDATION AND EXPLAINATION: Arca inflata, Cuttlebone (these two neutralize stomach acid and stop pain), Bitter orange, Magnolia Bark (these two assist in the treatment of constipation), Coptis, Evodia (these two treat acid reflux and help reduce burning) honey fried Licorice (soothes the throat, heals ulcerations from acid, helps the formula to work together) Achyranthes (stops joint pain and soothes irritated pharynx), Raw Rehmannia glutinosa (tongue sores throat pain), Notoginseng (stops pain, improve flexibility), White Peony root (anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic), Myrrh (stop pain and stimulate healing), Cannabis seed (lubricates bowel), Astragalus (strengthen digestion, speed healing of damaged tissue), Ophiopogon (moisten throat and bowels).
EXERCISE RECOMMENDATIONS: It is definitely necessary for you to begin an exercise regimen; any regular activity that you enjoy is a good place to start. Particularly useful for you would be Tai Qi, Qi Gong, or Yoga. These would help you to understand the flow of energy in your body, so that you could learn to control the flow of acid and bowels and be more aware of these movements in your body.
RECOMMENDED READING AND VIEWING: “The Heart Of Yoga” By: Desikachar
Yoga Journals Video: Yoga For Beginners
LIFESTYLE AND MEDITATION RECOMMENDATIONS: Try to limit stressors, do not eat when emotionally upset, chew food well. Drink lots of water each day. Avoid foods with enzyme inhibitors like peanuts, lentils, and soy. Aspirin or ibuprofen should not be taken, as they are irritating to the stomach.
REFERRALS TO OTHER HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS AND OPTIONS: Acupuncture should be your first choice to try to manage your joint pain; it will be very helpful here. It will also play a supportive role in the rest of your holistic heath plan. Biofeedback is another possibility to consider in helping you gain control of both your experience of your pain, and the movement of material through your digestive tract.
