About 50 million years ago, the Indian sub-continent collided with Asia, causing the Tethys Sea bed to be pushed up and eventually form the Himalayan Mountains. Today, these mountains continue to grow at a rate of about one centimeter a year.

During the early period of this transition, the mineral rich Tethys Sea bed gave rise to a dense tropical jungle. Over centuries, as the ground continued to rise, a great deal of organic plant material was trapped between layers of rock where it remained preserved for millions of years.  Due to microbial action and tremendous pressure over millions of years, this plant material was eventually transformed into a dense, viscous, mineral rich tar.

Early Himalayan villagers noticed monkeys chewing a semi-soft substance that flowed from between layers of rock during warm months of the summer. The villagers eventually tired it themselves and discovered the substance provided a number of health benefits, including greater energy, improved digestion, increased sex drive, improved memory, reduced allergies and an overall improvement in the quality of life. Over the years, this substance came to be known as Shilajit; literally, “Destroyer of Weakness”. The Latin name is Asphaltum.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is considered to be a “master herb” and is used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including: genitourinary diseases, diabetes, chronic bronchitis, asthma, gall stones, jaundice, hemorrhoids, epilepsy, enlarged live and spleen, digestive disorders, parasites, renal and bladder calculi, nervous debility, sexual dysfunction, hysteria, anemia, hypertension, obesity, bone fractures and fatigue. And, in addition to its general ability to increase strength and energy, Shilajit helps to reduce the pain of arthritis and remove toxins from the body. It has been said that there is hardly any curable disease which cannot be assisted with the aid of Shilajit.

Shilajit contains over 85 different minerals, many of which, in trace form, are important to human health. Unfortunately, over the centuries, much of our soil has been depleted of minerals. As a result, modern diets do not provide enough of the important minerals required for optimal health. The health benefits of Shilajit are attributed, in part, to its high mineral content, as well as its ability to remove toxins from the system.

High quality and purified Shilajit can be obtained from http://www.expertvedicastrology.com/Shilajit.php When taking Shilajit, dosage is very important. Begin with about 100 mg per day and increase gradually over 10 days. Also, I recommend taking a one month break from Shilajit every 3 or 4 months.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

Castor oil (Ricinus Communis) has been around for a long time. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world, describes the topical use of castor oil by the early Egyptians, as far back as 1550 B.C. Likewise, the oil of the castor bean has been used in India and China for thousands of years. In medieval Europe, the plant was given the name Palma Christa, since the leaves resemble the human hand.

Taken internally, castor oil is a reliable laxative, especially effective as a treatment for food poisoning and intestinal parasites. But actually, it’s the external application of castor oil that has the most remarkable healing properties. Present day health care practitioners prescribe the application of castor oil packs in order to:
- improve elimination
- stimulate the liver and gallbladder
- dissolve adhesions
- dissolve stones or lesions
- relieve pain
- relax the nerves
- remove toxins
- increase circulation of blood and lymph
- improve digestion
- reduce inflammation and swelling
- stimulate the endocrine system.

Castor oil is used externally in three ways. First, castor oil may be applied directly to the skin for dryness, rashes, hives, fungus, infections, boils, furuncles, liver spots (age spots), warts, benign skin cancers, etc. Also for infection or fungus in the finger or toe nails. Apply castor oil directly and gently rub into the area for a minute or two. Repeat this application 2 or 3 times a day for a few weeks or up to two months in the case of stubborn warts.

Second, the application of castor oil packs can bring significant relief for any kind of trauma, sprain or degenerative joint disorder. In the case of a painful joint, apply a pack and secure it with an ace bandage. Keep the pack on the body continuously and reapply castor oil every 24 hours.  For back pain, lay on a castor oil pack for 90 minutes every day for 5 days. (See instructions below.) In severe cases, you may have to repeat this course 3 times over a period of 3 weeks.

Third, castor oil packs are used for cleansing and regulating the internal organs. For disorders relating to the digestion, intestines, liver, lungs or reproductive organs a series of castor oil packs on the abdomen for 90 minutes a day can have remarkable effects.

How the castor oil pack works is not fully understood. Some practitioners attribute the healing properties to the relaxation of the muscles and the improved circulation of blood and lymph produced in the local area. In addition, it is known that certain fatty acids in the oil help to nourish the tissues and stimulate the healing a cellular level. In addition, it is my opinion that castor oil works on the level of vibrational medicine. My experience is that cold pressed castor oil resonates with living tissue on a subtle level, helping to restore the circulation of Qi or Life energy within the tissues. When the flow of Qi and blood are improved, the healing process is dramatically accelerated.

Directions for applying a castor oil pack

A castor oil pack is made from cotton flannel or disposable cotton padding which is used to absorb and hold the castor oil during application. The flannel is saturated with cold-pressed castor oil and applied directly to the area being treated. Common areas of application are the abdomen, the low back, or sprained muscles or joints of the arms and legs.

To make a castor oil pack, you will need the following supplies:

- Disposable under-pads or bed liners, available at most drug store. These should have a plastic liner on one side and a layer of cotton flannel on the other.
- Cold pressed castor oil
- One or two old bath towels
- Electric heating pad – I recommend the kind that will automatically shut off after one hour.
- Paper towels
- Plastic bag

1. Place the heating pad on the bed and turn it on to a low setting.

2. Place a full size disposable bed liner, with plastic side down, on top of the heating pad for protection.

3. Cut another section of bed liner approximately 10” X 14”, if doing an abdominal pack, or 8” X 14” for the low back, or a smaller section as needed for other parts of the body. Apply the castor in the middle of the flannel side, with the plastic side against the heating pad. Apply enough castor oil to soak the flannel but not so much that it will run over the edges. Place this cut section, plastic side down, on top of the larger liner but aligned with the heating pad underneath.

4. Apply castor oil to the abdomen or low back…enough to cover the area but not dripping. Wipe your hands with paper towels that are close by.

5. After a few minutes, when the castor oil pack has become warmed, lie down on the bed and flip the pack and heating pad on to your abdominal area and relax. Or, for the low back, lie down on the pack and adjust your position so that the pack covers the area from the sacrum to the waist. The heat should be comfortable but not too hot. It’s best to use a low setting to avoid a burn in case you fall asleep during the treatment.

Usual application time is 90 minutes.

After your session, wipe the area clean with paper towels. It’s ok to leave a thin film of oil on your body. Or, you may take a shower.

Carefully fold the castor oil pack and liner and store in a plastic bag between uses. Be sure to keep the pack out of the sun and in a cool dark place. Castor oil packs made from disposable liners may be used 8 to 10 times.

After 3 days of using the castor oil pack take about 1 teaspoon of olive oil (NOT castor oil) by mouth. This is best taken in the evening before bed.

To order castor oil and other supplies, go to www.Baar.com, or call 1-800-269-2502.

Precaution: Always consult with your health care provider before using a castor oil pack. DO NOT use a castor oil pack on the abdominal area or low back during pregnancy or menstrual flow.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

Tea is by far the most widely consumed beverage in the world and is enjoyed by people in every country. Regardless of the variety, all tea is an infusion made from the leaves of Camellia Sinensis.

Green teas are subject to a variety of processing methods, which may include steaming, pan roasting and rolling. Black and Oolong teas are further processed through fermentation. By contrast, the term “white tea” refers to tea leaves in their raw, natural state. After picking, the leaves are simply arranged and allowed to dry, without processing. White and green teas both contain antioxidants and other valuable nutrients, some of which are diminished during the fermentation process involved in making black teas.

Another important nutrient in tea, particularly in green and white tea, is L-theanine, an amino acid which produces a feeling of calmness together with increased mental clarity and alertness. Theanine content is highest in young, tender leaves and diminishes as the tea leaves mature.

Most people who make green or white tea for the first time, mistakenly use boiling water. But high temperature (above 176 degrees, 80 C) brings out more of the tannins and caffeine which produce a bitter taste and diminish the calming effect of Theanine. So, the secret of getting the health benefits of green or white tea, along with a sweeter taste and a calm mood, is to brew your tea with cooler water, ideally between 150 and 170 degrees. (For detailed instructions for proper brewing, see article titled, The Healthy ‘High” of Green and White Tea)

Here are a few of the reasons why green and white tea are valuable for your health.

Antioxidants – The antioxidants in green and white tea are 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times more than vitamin E. This helps to protect cells from damage linked to cancer, as well as aging.

Heart Health – Green and white tea reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by helping to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. They also improve the ratio of good vs. bad cholesterol. And if a heart attack does occur, drinking green or white tea will help speed the recovery and repair of heart cells.

Weight Loss – Green tea promotes weight loss. Four cups a day can help you burn 70 to 150 extra calories per day. That’s 7 to 15 pounds in a year. If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it’s unlikely you’ll be overweight.

Joint Health – Green tea has a beneficial effect on several types of arthritis by helping to block the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

Bone Health – Because of their high fluoride content, green and white teas help to maintain bone density.

Glucose Metabolism – Green and white tea help reduce diabetes by improving lipid and glucose metabolisms. Also, polyphenols and polysaccharides in tea help to lower blood sugar levels.

Brain Function – Green and white tea help to boost memory and slow the decline of acetylcholine in the brain, which is a contributing factor in Alzheimer’s. In addition, the antioxidants and the L-theanine  in green and white tea can prevent cell damage in the brain and increase dopamine production. Both of these factors can protect against Parkinson’s disease, or help to reduce symptoms for those who have it.

Immune Function – The polyphenols and flavenoids in green and white tea help boost the immune system and increasing resistance to viruses and infections. Likewise, the EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) found in tea reduce allergies. From this perspective, green and white tea help to balance both overactive and under-active immune systems. In addition, scientists in Japan have found that EGCG in green and white tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells.

Lung Health – The theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

Oral Health – Green and white tea reduce bacteria in the mouth, which contribute to many dental diseases as well as bad breath.

Mental Health – L-theanine, an amino acid in green and white tea, produces a calming effect which can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

Most modern diseases of the industrialized world are related to diets which include too many unhealthy fats (from meat, dairy products and heavily processed fats, like margarine and hydrogenated oils) and not enough of the healthy fats (Omega-3 oils from seeds and fish).  “Omega-3″ is a chemical nickname for a group of fatty acids which include Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).  These nutritional fats are remarkable for the wide range of benefits they bestow to the body.  To name just a few, they help to thin the blood, clean the arteries, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, prevent heart attack and stroke, improve circulation, regulate the immune system, improve eyesight and nourish the brain.

DHA is a major building block of brain tissue.  Studies show that DHA is particularly important in early brain development and learning ability.  For this reason, it is especially important that pregnant mothers and children maintain adequate levels of DHA in their diet.  In Great Britain and Europe, the use of Omega-3 supplementation is starting to replace conventional anti-depressant therapy for mild to moderate depression and ADHD.

On another level, inflammation in the body is a subtle but insidious killer. Inflammation in the G.I. tract can impair digestion and nutritional absorption.  Inflammation in the nervous system can lead to MS and in the brain, can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation in the arteries is a major factor leading to heart disease and stroke.  Inflammation in the lungs or bronchial tubes can result in asthma.  Inflammation in the skin shows up as eczema, psoriasis, hives or acne.  Over the course of time, the damage from inflammation is perhaps the single greatest health risk that we face.  By increasing our intake of ALA and EPA and reducing the unhealthy fats, we can dramatically reduce inflammation  in the body.

Researchers have also found that Omega-3 oils assist the body’s immune system in a number of different ways.  In cancer patients, these nutrients actually help to strengthen the healthy cells and destroy cancer cells.  Omega-3′s are also important in the area of auto-immune disorders.  They seem to have a regulating effect on the immune system by boosting immune function where it is needed and reducing inflammation in the healthy tissues.

One of the primary causes of heart disease and stroke is atherosclerosis; a degenerative disease in which the arteries become brittle, clogged with plaque and subject to inflammation.  It has been demonstrated that a diet rich in Omega-3 oils (along with other dietary and lifestyle changes) can reverse this process and help restore normal arterial blood flow.

The most concentrated sources of EPA and DHA are cold water fin fish.  An ideal diet would include 7 or more servings of fresh fish every week.  However, these days, due to pollution in the oceans and inland waters, it is not a good idea to eat that much fish.  For this reason, a good quality fish oil supplement is the best approach.  I recommend Nordic Naturals available at www.nordicnaturals.com or 1-800-662-2544. Their products are manufactured under the highest standards of purity and freshness.  And the taste is mild and very pleasant.

* Caution: If you are pregnant, currently taking blood thinning medication, have diabetes or a bleeding disorder, consult with your health care professional before taking fish or flax seed oil supplements.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

As an acupuncturist and shiatsu provider, my clients often ask me for recommendations regarding herbs and supplements. Of course, any specific recommendation in this regard must be tailored to each individual based on his or her own body type, age, health condition and specific areas of imbalance. Nevertheless, there are a number of herbs and supplements which have wide application and can be recommended for most people. Here are my “most frequently recommended” herbs and supplements.

-    Multiple Vitamin – A good quality multiple vitamin providing 100% of the RDA for all vitamins and some of the more basic minerals. Many multi-vitamins recommend large doses, often as much as 10 times the 100% RDA. In my opinion, this is a complete waste of money. The body uses vitamins in minute amounts and taking more is not helpful. There are a few exceptions to this rule, noted below.

-    Vitamin D3 – 1000 IU per day (possibly more if you are dealing with a specific health issue which may be related to vitamin D deficiency.) There are so many modern diseases related to Vitamin D deficiency that I recommend additional Vitamin D3 supplementation.

- Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid – If you are vegetarian or simply eat a diet low in animal protein (which is highly recommended), then additional B12 and Folic Acid is recommended. For most people, I recommend the following: B12: 1 sub-lingual tablet 3 times a week. Folic acid: 400 mcg (0.4mg) per day.

-    Cod Liver Oil – 1 teaspoon per day. The Omega 3 fatty acids, and in particular Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid DHA, are so important for overall health and longevity, that I rate this simple product as one of the most important supplements you can take. Excellent brands are Nordic Naturals and Carlson’s.

-    Triphala is a combination of three Ayurvedic herbs and is an excellent digestive and tonic for most body types, especially if constipation is a frequent issue. The ideal way to take Triphala is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder with 10 ounces of warm water upon rising in the morning. It’s best to mix the powder with hot water, let cool and drink the decoction straight down. Or, if you’re a hearty soul, take the powder on your tongue (being careful to hold your breath so as not to inhale any of the powder) and wash it down with warm water. If the taste is too bitter for your sensitivities, you can get Triphala in capsule form. In this case, take 2 to 4 capsules with 10 oz warm water upon rising. Either way, wait 30 minutes before eating anything. Triphala is a gentle and natural laxative which is not habit forming since it works by stimulating the liver and not by irritating the colon. Triphala is available at most supplement or natural foods stores. Note: do ot take Triphala is you are pregnant, nursing or have diarrhea.

- Aloe Vera Juice – take 2 oz Aloe Vera juice with 2 oz apple juice once or twice a day. Aloe Vera juice is a wonderful tonic for the digestive organs and at the same time, it helps to cool the body and reduce inflammation, especially in the digestive tract. If gastritis, acid reflux or Gerd are an issue, add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to the above mixture.

-    DGL Licorice – If acid stomach or acid reflux are an issue, suck on 2 tablets, 2 times a day, before main meals. May also be used any time you feel burning sensation in the stomach. DGL licorice tablets are available in most supplement or natural foods stores.

-    Livit II – 1 tablet, 3 times a day. Complete one bottle every 6 to 12 months, in the Spring or Fall. Available at Ayush Herbs in Bellevue WA. The liver is extremely important for overall health and in our modern society, is the organ which suffers the most from stress, lack of adequate rest and environmental toxins. Livit II is a traditional Ayurvedic  liver cleanser and tonic that is powerful yet gentle enough to give to children.

-    Magnesium Citrate or Amino Acid Chelate – 200 mg per day of magnesium. If you are dealing with a specific health concern, you may need more. See article on Magnesium, below.

-    Kefir – Drink one cup of organic, unsweetened, goat milk kefir, every morning on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before eating. Otherwise, it’s best to avoid other forms of dairy.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

Tea is by far the most widely consumed beverage in the world and is enjoyed in many forms. Regardless of the form or type of tea, all tea is an infusion made from the leaves of Camellia Sinensis.

Green teas are subject to a variety of processing methods, which may include steaming, pan roasting and rolling. Black and Oolong teas are further processed through fermentation. By contrast, the term “white tea” refers to tea leaves in their raw, natural state. After picking, the leaves are simply arranged and allowed to dry, without processing.

White and green teas are similar and both contain antioxidants and other valuable nutrients, some of which are diminished during the fermentation process involved in making black teas. For example, white and green tea support increased bone density, lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and protection from free radicals as well as many common bacteria and viruses. And some studies indicate that white and green tea protect against some forms of cancer.

Another important nutrient in tea, particularly in green and white tea, is Theanine, a psycho-active amino acid. It’s Theanine which produces the natural ‘high’ of tea, often experienced as a feeling of calmness together with increased mental clarity and alertness. Theanine content is highest in young, tender buds and leaves and diminishes as the tea leaves mature.

It is believed that Theanine protects nerve cells, increasing their longevity. It is linked to increased production of GABA and dopamine in the brain, as well as increased alpha waves. All of these factors are associated with increased calmness and the sense of well being. As a result, Theanine is considered a natural remedy for depression, anxiety and stress. In addition, Japanese studies link consumption of L-theanine with enhanced immune system function and reduced blood pressure.

Theanine will dissolve in water temperatures above 120 degrees F. Caffeine and the more bitter tannins of tea tend to dissolve at higher temperatures. If the water temperature is above 170 degrees, the bitter tannins and caffeine will overcome the Theanine, masking both the taste and the beneficial calming effect. So, the secret of getting the natural ‘high’, along with a sweeter and less bitter taste, is to brew your tea with cooler water, ideally between 150 and 170 degrees F.

Silver Needle White Tea

Silver Needle white tea is a variety of young, tender tea leaves picked only during certain days of early spring. When the Silver Needle tea is brewed correctly, it will yield a golden liquor with a subtle, sweet and savory flavor that will make you salivate. The savory flavor is the taste of Theanine, which can be appreciated through proper brewing and correct water temperature, ideally 160 degrees F .

Brewing Instructions for Silver Needle White Tea:

Place a rounded tablespoon of Silver Needle leaves in a 12 oz cup, using a brewing strainer.

Prepare freshly drawn filtered water to the correct temperature of 170 degrees. It’s best to use a thermometer to gauge water temperature. But also, you can approximate correct temperature as follows: Bring the water to near boiling, the point when the water surface just begins to stir. Then turn off the kettle and let the water stand for about half a minute. Then pour 10 oz of water into an empty, room temperature, ceramic cup. Let this water stand for one minute. Then pour this cooled water into the cup containing the Silver Needle tea leaves.

Cover the cup and let the leaves steep for 15 – 20 minutes. If the initial water temperature is not over 170 degrees, the tea will not develop bitterness. You can use the same leaves to make a second and even third infusion.

Japanese Green Teas

If you like a stronger tasting tea, I recommend fine Japanese green teas, such as high quality Sencha or Gyokuro. As with Silver Needle, these teas are picked in the spring when the leaves are young and are rich in many nutrients, including Theanine.

Both Gyokuro and high quality Sencha are delicate teas and can easily be over brewed. To bring out the Theanine, without too many of the bitter tannins, the water should not be hotter than 160 degrees F for Sencha and 140 degrees F for Gyokuro. Follow these instructions to yield a beautiful green liquor that has a fresh, sweet and savory flavor. As with Silver Needle, both Gyokuro and high quality Sencha produce a feeling of calmness along with acute mental clarity.

Brewing Instructions for Gyokuro Green Tea:

Place a level teaspoon of Gyokuro leaves in a brewing strainer.

Prepare freshly drawn filtered water to the correct temperature of 140 degrees. It’s best to use a thermometer to gauge water temperature. But also, you can approximate correct temperature as follows: Bring the water to near boiling, the point when the water surface just begins to stir. Then turn off the kettle and let the water stand for one minute. Then pour 8 oz of water into an empty, room temperature, ceramic cup. Let the water stand for 20 seconds. Then pour this cooled water into second, room temperature cup. Again, let let the water stand for 20 seconds. Then pour this cooler water into the cup containing the Gyokuro tea.

Let the tea steep for about 90 seconds. Remove the brewing strainer and let the tea stand until cool enough to drink. You can use the same leaves to make a second infusion.

Both of these teas are delicate, particularly the Gyokuro green tea. Excessive water temperature or over brewing will produce a bitter flavor with excessive caffeine, which will diminish the experience of deep calmness and profound clarity of a properly brewed cup of tea.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

In traditional Chinese Medicine, the inner gel of the Aloe plant is a considered an excellent “yin” tonic, meaning that it helps to nourish, moisten and balance all the tissues and is suitable for all body types.  Below are some of the remarkable health benefits of Aloe Vera.

Inflammation in the body is a subtle but insidious killer. Inflammation in the G.I. tract can impair digestion and nutritional absorption.  Inflammation in the nervous system can lead to MS and in the brain, can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation in the arteries is a major factor leading to heart disease and stroke.  Inflammation in the lungs or bronchial tubes can result in asthma.  Inflammation in the skin shows up as eczema, psoriasis, hives or acne.  Over the course of time, the damage from inflammation is perhaps the single greatest health risk that we face.  Because Aloe Vera has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, it is a valuable herb for a wide range of therapeutic applications.

Aloe Vera is excellent to reduce inflammation of the skin or the mucous membranes.  It is especially good for inflammation in the G.I. tract, for conditions such as ulcers, GERD (acid reflux or heartburn), gastro-enteritis, Crohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and hemorrhoids.  In addition, Aloe Vera is beneficial for inflammation of the urinary bladder, making it an excellent herbal remedy for interstitial cystitis.

Aloe Vera is beneficial for cardio-vascular disease as it helps to lower blood cholesterol and clear the arteries over time.  Aloe is also helpful for diabetes as it helps to normalize blood sugar and lower the need for insulin.  Aloe is a wonderful liver tonic and in some parts of the world is used for acute or chronic hepatitis or other liver problems.  And finally, Aloe is an excellent tonic for the female reproductive organs and is often used to reduce the symptoms associated with menopause.  Finally, Aloe Vera acts as an immune modulator by boosting production of immune factors and reducing immune hypersensitivity.

Recent scientific research has shown that long chain polysaccharides, which are abundant in Aloe Vera, help in the formation of glycoforms which are extremely important for good health on a cellular level.  Like tiny hairs or antennae on the surface of cells, glycoforms allow the cells to recognize, communicate and coordinate their work with one another.  Some pharmaceutical companies are now trying to manufacture polysaccharides in order to treat a number of health conditions.  By simply taking Aloe Vera, we can get these same polysaccharides, synergistically combined by Mother Nature, with dozens of other nutritional and medicinal factors.

In addition to providing all the health benefits mentioned above, Aloe Vera is remarkably safe for children and adults.  Reference books on herbal medicine give purified Aloe Vera gel the lowest possible rating for toxicity.

Many people believe they have used Aloe Vera when in fact, they have probably used a product which contains very few active Aloe ingredients.  The nutritional and medicinal properties in Aloe are extremely fragile and begin to breakdown within 2 or 3 hours after the leaves are cut.  For this reason, the plant must be processed quickly in order to filter out the bitter sap (which contains aloin and aloe emodin) and stabilize the important medicinal properties.  Many companies do not process the Aloe plant correctly and for this reason, much of the commercial Aloe Vera on the market today is practically worthless.  Or, if the aloin and aloe emodin are not completely removed, the resulting product can cause diarrhea or intestinal cramps.

There are several companies that make high quality Aloe Vera products and below are three that I have come to trust.

1) www.Serovera.com – 1-877-737-6267

Serovera is for people with chronic diseases of the intestinal tract; specifically Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.  It contains pure, pharmaceutical grade Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides made from the inner gel of the Aloe leaf.

2) http://www.healthylifeharvest.com – 1-877-444-2563

Healthy Life Harvest produces an excellent freeze dried whole leaf Aloe Vera product in capsule. This product is excellent for upper G.I. disorders such as acid reflux and acid indigestion and for pelvic inflammatory disorders such as interstitial cystitis.

I don’t believe in panaceas.  However, there are only a dozen or so herbs in the world which have the remarkable range of therapeutic application as does Aloe Vera.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

We’ve all heard the saying that there is no cure for the common cold.  But the fact is, there are cures for colds and flu, which you can do at home with hot water and some very common items from your kitchen spice rack.  Most people laugh when I say this but it’s true and I have proven it on myself and my clients on numerous occasions.  But there is one small catch…you must apply these remedies within the first 2 – 3 hours of the onset of symptoms.  Once the virus has become established in the body, there is no effective cure for the common cold…you’ll have to let it run it’s course which takes a week to 10 days.

The best cure for cold and flu is prevention.  And the number one best prevention is to wash your hands frequently…especially during cold and flu season.  Every time you have been out in public, wash your hands with soap and water.  Make it a habit to do this five or more times a day.  It’s a fact that many viruses are picked up on the hands and transmitted into our bodies by scratching our face or touching one of our mucous membranes.

Once you begin to feel that first hint of a symptom, you have to act.  For some people, it’s a sore throat…for others, it’s tightness in the back of the neck, sneezing, a runny nose or a tightening in the chest.  However a cold hits you, stop what you are doing and follow the procedures outlined below.  If you can do this within the first few hours, there is a very good chance that you can stop the virus in its tracks.

My favorite cold remedy is Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) which is orange in color and one of the main spices in curry powder.  Among other important medicinal properties, Turmeric is a powerful natural antibiotic and antiviral.  Whereas pharmaceutical antibiotics tend to kill microbes indiscriminately, Turmeric kills only the foreign invaders and actually encourages the growth of friendly bacteria in the body.  Turmeric is a mildly warming herb.  It stimulates the formation of new blood and tissue and assists in the digestion of protein.  Turmeric is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce muscular or skeletal pain anywhere in the body.

At the first sign of cold or flu, it is invaluable to begin one of more of the following home remedies:

1)    If you are feeling a sore throat – Gargle with 1/2 cup hot (comfortably hot) water, 1/3 teaspoon salt and 1/3 teaspoon Turmeric.  It is important to do this 5 times a day and especially before bed.  Try to get the salt and Turmeric water as far back into your throat as possible. Don’t eat or drink anything for at least 20 minutes after doing this treatment.

2)    If you are feeling a stiff neck or headache – Take hot bath with one cup apple cider vinegar in the bath water.  While in the bath, drink a cup of fresh ginger tea.  The bath should be hot enough to produce a sweat within 10 minutes or so.  Remain in the hot water for 20 minutes and then get out, bundle up in warm robe and get under a comforter to spend more time sweating.  The point of this exercise is to sweat as much as possible.  You may get up after 90 minutes, but keep as warm as possible for the rest of the day.

3)    If you are sneezing – Nasal douche with 1 cup warm tea made with ½ teaspoon of Golden Seal (Hydrastis Canadensis) and ¼ teaspoon salt.  If you don’t know how to do a nasal douche, you can find instructions on the internet or contact your health care professional.

4)    In general for cold or flu – Take Turmeric capsules – 500mg, 3 times a day. Also, avoid all dairy products until you have completely recovered. Dairy products increase the production of mucus and will exacerbate the symptoms of cold and flu in most cases.

5) Zinc - At the first sign of a cold, take zinc supplements, either as throat lozenges or in capsule form, up to 30mg, twice per day, while symptoms persist.

6) Vitamin D3 – Make sure you are getting 2000 units of Vitamin D. This vitamin is important for many systems in the body, including a healthy immune system.

7)    Take caution in the use of antibiotics – Unless you have a serious (possibly life threatening) infection, pharmaceutical antibiotics can actually do more harm than good.  And in most cases of a viral infection, antibiotics will not help the condition at all. If you’re in reasonably good health, it’s better to help your body to defend itself.

Because these recommendations are simple, many people don’t take them seriously.  They either apply them half-heartedly or not at all.  But I cannot overstate how potent these remedies can be in the first few hours of the onset of symptoms.  Cold and flu viruses are actually very fragile in small numbers and can be wiped out quickly.  In particular the ingestion of Turmeric and the Turmeric gargle are very powerful ways to eliminate viruses before they have a chance to get established.

Precautionary Note: If you are pregnant, have had stroke, hypertension, cardio-vascular disease or some other serious health condition, it is important to consult with your professional health care provider before trying these home remedies.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

As an practitioner of acupuncture and shiatsu in Portland, people frequently ask me about home therapy. I’m a great believer in home remedies and home treatment. First of all, learning to take care of ourselves and our family is a primary responsibility for every person. Second, learning self therapy empowers each of us so that we don’t have to depend on others every time we are out of balance for one reason or another.

Here is a list of the 7 most powerful things you can do for your health at home.

1) Eat Slowly and Chew Your Food Thoroughly All traditional systems of medicine agree that a strong and complete digestion is the foundation of good health.  By eating slowly and chewing thoroughly, we get three benefits.  We dramatically enhance our digestion, we naturally eat less without feeling deprived and we enjoy our food more than ever.  Especially carbohydrates should be liquefied before you swallow them. Over the years, this one recommendation will make a huge difference in the length and quality of your life.

2) Skin brushing is a powerful way to detox the lymphatic system and stimulate the flow of blood and qi energy. And it only takes about 2 or 3 minutes in the morning. To learn about skin brushing, go to: http://www.naturalhealthscience.com/

3) An inversion table for 2 minutes a day will counteract the effects of gravity on the blood and organs. Also, it’s an excellent way to stretch out the muscles and ligaments in the spine and pelvic region. The best inversion tables for the money are made by Teeter Hang Ups at: http://www.teeter-inversion.com/

4) A 30 second cold water shower at the end of your morning bath or shower, along with deep breathing, will help to flush the skin and surface tissues with fresh blood. This is an excellent way to move the qi energy and blood at the beginning of the day.

5) A teaspoon of cod liver oil every day Recommended brands are Carlson’s and Nordic Naturals. If you have a particular health problem like joint pain, anxiety or depression, a special concentrated fish oil product may be better for you. But otherwise, simple cod liver oil is recommended for overall nutrition and health maintenance. For more information about the benefits of fish oil, see article on Dietary Fats.

6) 20 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. By moving and stretching the muscles every day, we help the circulation of energy and fluids, balance the hormones and blood chemistry and assist in the elimination of toxins and waste. For most people bicycling, jogging, swimming or any other moderate aerobic exercise is excellent.  But if you have an ongoing health condition, lighter exercises such as walking or swimming may be more appropriate.  In this case, discuss exercise with your health care professional in order to design a program that is best suited for you.

7) Meditation for 20 minutes twice a day. Transcendental Meditation (TM) has proven to have profound health benefits, including lowering of blood pressure and stress reduction. Most cities have TM centers where meditation classes are available.

8) Organic Goat Milk Kefir – Drink 6 to 8 ounces of organic, unsweetened, goat milk kefir every morning on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before taking food.

In addition to the above recommended home therapies, here’s a list of 9 things you can avoid in order to live longer and improve the quality of life.

1) Tobacco in all forms

2) Marijuana, narcotics or other recreational drugs. Drugs often flood and then deplete serotonin in the brain. For many people this can lead to a vicious cycle of dependence and depression.

3) Alcohol in excess of a glass of wine or beer with your main meal of the day. The body is not able to process and eliminate excessive alcohol consumption. A little bit a few times a week is tolerable for most people. But excessive alcohol puts a strain on the system on a number of levels and leads to premature aging.

4) Dairy products create so many problems for most people that I recommend everyone reduce or avoid it. The fats and proteins in processed cow’s milk are simply not compatible for the majority of westerners. Most people experience fewer allergies and improvement in overall health after eliminating dairy for a few months. The exception to this recommendation is one serving per day of organic, unsweetened yogurt or kefir (at room temperature). Oat or almond beverages are excellent milk substitutes

5) Meat in excess of 5 ounces per day. Studies show that people live longer and enjoy better health if they keep animal proteins to a minimum.

6) The artificial sweetener Aspartame, also known under brand names NutraSweet, Canderel, and AminoSweet. This chemical is a known neuro-toxin that has serious long term health implications. Why the FDA has not banned it is a mystery.

7) The flavor additive MSG. MSG is a problem for many people. If you are eating out, I recommend that you request no MSG in your food. MSG is particularly prevalent in Vietnamese and Chinese foods.

8  Transfats, hydrogenated fats or heavily processed fats and oils.

9) High fructose corn syrup. This sweetener is extremely concentrated in most sodas and many processed foods. It stimulated the craving for more sweets and I believe is responsible for the epidemics of obesity and diabetes in the U.S., especially among young people. This means avoiding all sodas.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805

Dietary fats play a crucial role in our health and longevity. And yet, there is perhaps no other health topic more clouded in confusion and misinformation.

In the early 1950′s, scientists found that plaque (the substance which clogs the arteries and is a major cause of heart disease and stroke) is partially composed of cholesterol. Based on this discovery, they assumed a direct relationship between the amount of cholesterol in our diet and the formation of plaque in the arteries. Since that time, a number of studies have cast serious doubt on this conclusion. We now know that the build-up of plaque in the arteries is a much more complex process, involving inflammation as well as a number of dietary and hereditary factors. But most important, it is now apparent that the most dangerous dietary factor is not cholesterol, as once believed, but trans-fatty acids or trans fat.

Trans fat is formed when vegetable oils are hydrogenated (hardened) into margarine or shortening. Trans fat is in most fried foods such as french fries, fried chicken, doughnuts, cookies, pastries and crackers. Other processed foods also contain trans fat, often labeled as shortening, hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil. Trans fat is associated with increased blood levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, and low levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol. Trans fat is a major contributor to the formation of plaque in the arteries and the resulting increase in heart disease, stroke and a number of other serious degenerative diseases.

Another related dietary problem is an unhealthy ratio of essential fatty acids. Both Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for our health. The ideal ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 in our diet is from 1/1 to 2/1. Essential fatty acid ratios in this range are found in native populations whose dietary fat comes from legumes, grains, nuts, seeds, green vegetables, fish and animal sources. However, the typical American diet, with large amounts of polyunsaturated fats, has a ratio of 20/1, or even higher.

Omega-3 oils include a group of chemical nutrients which help to thin the blood, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, protect against heart attack and stroke, regulate the immune system and nourish the brain, just to name a few of their remarkable health benefits. Omega-3 is particularly important in early brain development and learning ability in children. In Europe, Omega-3 supplements are replacing conventional anti-depressant therapy for mild to moderate depression and ADHD. By increasing our intake of Omega-3 fatty acids, we can enjoy many long-term health benefits.

The subject of dietary fats is complex and includes more bio-chemistry than most people want to know. As a simple rule, keep in mind that monosaturated oils, like virgin olive oil, is the preferred dietary staple, supplemented with fish and seed oils to provide a healthy ratio of essential fatty acids. The following guidelines are suitable for most (*) people to insure the right kinds and amounts of dietary fats.

1) 2 grams of combined Omega-3 from high grade fish or krill oil, per day. For most brands of fish oil, this represents 1 to 2 teaspoons or 5 to 10 capsules per day. Nordic Naturals or Carlson’s are both excellent brands.

2) Avoid trans fats, fried foods or foods that contain margarine, hydrogenated oils or shortening. For baking or high heat cooking, it would be better to use butter or virgin coconut oil.

3) For meat consumption, favor deep ocean fin fish and organically raised chicken.

4) Use organic virgin olive oil for cooking or to garnish bread, vegetables and salads.

5) Unless you are overweight or have high cholesterol, a small amount of butter, ghee or virgin coconut oil is fine. For many people, 1/2 teaspoon of these fats every day is a valuable and welcomed addition to the diet.

6) 20 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise, at least 5 times per week.  If you are not accustomed to regular exercise, begin slowly and work up to 20 minutes gradually over several weeks.

* Precautions: Fish oil has natural blood thinning factors. If you are pregnant, currently taking blood thinning medication, have diabetes or a bleeding disorder, consult with your health care professional before adding fish oil to your diet.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you have questions about acupuncture and shiatsu, or if you have a specific health concern, please contact me at:

Bart Walton, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncture & Shiatsu
Portland, Oregon
503/939-5805