National Institute of Alternative Health Care

What parents should know by Jeremy Appleton, ND, CNS 

Children who eat healthful diets rich in whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables should not need to take a daily multivitamin. But how many children truly fit that description? Even in households steeped in whole foods and nutritious cooking practices, children can be finicky eaters. Or they may live in households where a standard Western diet is consumed and junk foods are not significantly limited. 

Q. Can a nutritional supplement take the place of eating a diet rich in healthful whole foods?

Nutrition research strongly suggests that the answer is no. But a combination of some whole foods and high-quality supplements may be the best compromise most parents can expect, one that is likely to prevent nutrient deficiencies even if it does not provide the nutritional benefits of a diet truly rich in whole foods. Children from low-income households are at risk of several nutritional deficiencies and, for them, supplementing with a high-quality multivitamin may be the best safety net preventing them from falling into nutritional deficit. 

Q. When should I consult a doctor?

Some nutritional supplements and herbs can be poisonous if taken in the wrong amounts, even if they are sold over the counter or are formulated for children.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about the safety or efficacy of supplements for your child. 

Q. What about herbal supplements?

• Herbal supplements for children are not recommended on a daily basis, but instead may be considered to help address specific health concerns. For example, chamomile and mint teas can be useful for upset stomachs, and ginger syrup or tea may help a child who is nauseated.
• Consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if herbal supplements are right for your child.  

Q. Does my child need a multivitamin?

• While most well-nourished children probably do not need a multivitamin, there appears to be no harm (and probably some benefit) from taking a good one. A high-quality multivitamin will provide at least the RDA of its key ingredients, it will contain no unnecessary additives, and it will meet its label claims for nutrient content. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have questions about how to choose a high-quality multivitamin.
• A multivitamin usually provides the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of most essential vitamins and minerals. Several good children’s multivitamins are available, some in chewable form.
• Children from low-income households are at the highest risk of nutritional deficiencies. Studies suggest that, in these groups, multivitamin supplementation can improve brain function and attention in school, fortify the immune system against infection, and prevent nutritional deficiency diseases such as anemia (caused by deficiency of iron or certain B-complex vitamins) and rickets (caused by vitamin D deficiency).
• Improved performance on IQ tests has been observed in some children who take a daily multivitamin, compared with those who do not. However, the results of this research are not conclusive, and it may be that the children who benefited were marginally deficient in iron and had that deficiency corrected by the multivitamin.  

Q. Does my child need an iron supplement?

• Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common nutritional deficiency disease among children and adolescents. It is less common now that breakfast cereals and breads are fortified with iron. But adolescents, particularly adolescent girls who have begun menstruating, may be at increased risk of developing iron deficiency.
• Breast-feeding infants less than three months of age do not need iron supplements.
• Formula-fed infants do not need iron supplements because baby formula is fortified with iron.
• Children between the ages of three months and three years may need iron supplementation in the amount of 1 mg per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight per day. However, some experts disagree, saying that once solid foods have been introduced the need for iron supplementation goes away. This depends on the child’s individual diet.
• Children who eat nutritionally inadequate diets may be at risk of iron deficiency, which can cause anemia and impair brain function and intellectual performance. Such children require dietary intervention and/or supplemental iron.
• Some children’s multivitamins contain iron; some do not. Be sure to check the label to see how much iron is in the multivitamin. Do not give your child iron if he or she does not need it as too much iron can be dangerous. Consult your pediatrician to determine if your child needs iron.  

Q. Does my child need fluoride?

• Fluoride is the only nutrient that has been proven to reduce the incidence of dental cavities or caries.
• Children who live in areas where drinking water is not fluoridated may need to take sodium fluoride supplements to get adequate fluoride, even if they use fluoridated toothpaste. The amount to take is determined by the child’s weight, and the supplement should be prescribed by a doctor.
• Do not give your child fluoride supplements if he or she drinks fluoridated water. Too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, which permanently discolors the enamel of the teeth.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and many other similar organizations recommend that children use fluoridated toothpaste, even if they live in areas with fluoridated drinking water (as long as the water contains no more than 1.2 mg per liter).
• Children under six months of age do not need fluoride since they do not have their primary teeth.
• Fluoride must be used in precisely correct amounts as too much can be toxic.
• Your local water bureau can tell you how much fluoride is in your drinking water. Water testing kits are also available.  

Q. Does my child need a vitamin B12 supplement?

• Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause serious, irreversible nerve damage and anemia. Reliable amounts of vitamin B12 can be obtained only from foods of animal origin (in other words, fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products).
• Tempeh, seaweed, and some other foods not of animal origin may contain some vitamin B12, but the amounts are not consistently high enough for these foods to be dependable sources.
• Therefore, children who consume a vegan diet (one that contains no animal products whatsoever) need to take a vitamin B12 supplement. Most children’s vitamins contain sufficient vitamin B12 to meet this requirement.
• The RDA for children ages 1 to 3 is 0.9 mcg per day; for children ages 4 to 8, the RDA is 1.2 mcg per day; for children ages 9 to 13, it is 1.8 mcg per day. Adolescents (ages 14 to 18) require the same amount as adults: 2.4 mcg per day.  

Q. Does my child need more calcium?

• Calcium is needed to help a growing child or adolescent reach peak bone mass, which will decrease their later risk for developing osteoporosis.
• Unfortunately, poor dietary choices—particularly among adolescent girls—may lead to lower-than-recommended calcium intake.
• Many children’s vitamins include calcium, but it may not be enough for adolescents, especially those with increased requirements (for example, female athletes who have begun their menstrual periods). Children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 11 to 25) need to get 1,200 mg of calcium per day from all sources.  

Q. Does my child need a vitamin D supplement?

• Vitamin D is produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight. If sunlight exposure is adequate, there is no requirement for additional vitamin D.
• People who get little exposure to sunlight, either because of living conditions or geographical location, may be at risk of developing a deficiency of vitamin D, which is needed for proper bone formation and to prevent rickets.
• Cow’s milk is fortified with vitamin D, and most children’s vitamins provide sufficient vitamin D.
• Children over six months of age need 400 IU of vitamin D per day. 

Q. Are essential fatty acid supplements necessary?

• Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are needed for proper development, particularly of the brain and nervous system. They also contribute to the health of the heart and skin. A diet that includes nuts and fish should provide ample EFAs. Some children whose diets are low in these foods may benefit from a high-quality fish oil supplement.
• Fish oil supplements should be free from contaminants, such as pesticide residues and heavy metals, particularly mercury. These contaminants, which pollute our oceans and are consumed by fish, can be removed from the oil during the manufacture of a supplement. It’s hard to know which products have had these removed, but companies with high purity standards will often advertise it.  

Q. Do some children need additional vitamin or mineral supplementation?

• Some children who have poor or restricted diets, liver disease, or other chronic medical problems (especially those that lead to fat malabsorption, such as cystic fibrosis) may need specific vitamin and mineral supplementation to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
• Only a qualified healthcare provider should prescribe nutrients to treat a medical condition. 

Jeremy Appleton, ND, CNS, is a licensed naturopathic physician and certified nutrition specialist. He has worked extensively in scientific affairs in the dietary supplement industry and has taught nutrition at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Appleton is the author, with Stanley W. Jacob, MD, of MSM: The Definitive Guide (Topanga, Freedom Press, 2003). 

To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You’ll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you’re an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. 

Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.

Questions to get you started 

Q. Do I really need vitamins and herbs?

A. Even if you eat healthfully, you could probably benefit from taking vitamin supplements. Certain vitamins help protect the body against the damage caused by environmental factors, such as the sun, pollution, and pesticides and other toxins, that can lead to illness, disease, and aging. For more in-depth information on nutritional supplements, see Vitamins and Minerals for Healthy People. 

Many herbal remedies have been used traditionally to help prevent or treat diseases, and science has supported a wide range of uses. 

Q. Where do I begin?

A. Before making any change in your health protocol, it is a good idea to check in with your healthcare practitioner, especially if you are pregnant or have a health condition. Next, it is important to have clear health goals when looking for supplements. 

For example:

A healthy 20-year-old might simply be looking for “dietary insurance.”

Someone in his or her 30s might want to manage stress.

Postmenopausal women might be concerned about osteoporosis.

Men over 50 might be thinking about prostate health. 

Each of these will benefit from a slightly different supplement protocol. Talk with a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner, letting your health goals and history guide your research and help you determine the herbs and supplements that will be safest and most effective for you. 

Q. Are vitamins and minerals always safe?

A. Although most supplements have good safety records, each person’s body will react differently depending on his or her unique physiology as well as on any other medications, herbs, and supplements also being taken. In addition, certain combinations of medications, herbs, and nutrients can potentially cause depletions or interactions. For that reason it is important to check with your health practitioner. Also try Rx Answers, which contains depletion and interaction information for drugs, nutritional supplements, herbs, and foods. 

Q. Do women need special vitamins or herbs?

A. Each woman will have different health concerns depending on her age, health history, and genetics. In addition to meeting general nutrient needs, women may have specific concerns such as osteoporosis, PMS, heart disease, iron levels, and pregnancy. 

Q. Do men need special vitamins or herbs?

A. Like women, each man will have different health concerns depending on his age, health history, and genetics. In addition to meeting general nutrient needs, men may have specific concerns such as prostate health, stress, diabetes, and heart health. 

Q. Are vitamins and herbs safe for children?

A. Although many experts believe that children can safely benefit from vitamins and other supplements, it is important to consult your family practitioner before giving children vitamins, herbs, or other supplements. 

The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you’re looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you’re in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection! 

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Common names: Bahupatra, Bhuiamla 

Botanical name: Phyllanthus niruri 

Parts used and where grown

Phyllanthus is an herb found in central and southern India. It can grow from 30–60 centimeters in height and blooms with many yellow flowers. Phyllanthus species are also found in other countries, including China (e.g., Phyllanthus urinaria), the Philippines, Cuba, Nigeria, and Guam. All parts of the plant are used medicinally. 

Click here to view chart 

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Phyllanthus has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years and has a wide number of traditional uses including internal use for jaundice, gonorrhea, frequent menstruation, and diabetes and topical use as a poultice for skin ulcers, sores, swelling, and itchiness. The young shoots of the plant are administered in the form of an infusion for the treatment of chronic dysentery. 

Active constituents

Phyllanthus primarily contains lignans (e.g., phyllanthine and hypophyllanthine), alkaloids, and flavonoids (e.g., quercetin). 

Phyllanthus blocks DNA polymerase, the enzyme needed for the hepatitis B virus to reproduce. In one study, 59% of those infected with chronic viral hepatitis B lost one of the major blood markers of HBV infection (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen) after using 900 mg of phyllanthus per day for 30 days. While clinical trials on the effectiveness of phyllanthus for HBV have been mixed, the species P. urinaria and P. niruri seem to work better than P. amarus. Clinical trials with hepatitis B patients have used 900–2,700 mg of phyllanthus per day. 

How much is usually taken?

Research has used the powdered form of phyllanthus ranging from 900–2,700 mg per day for three months. 

Are there any side effects or interactions?

No side effects have been reported using phyllanthus as recommended in the amounts above. 

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with phyllanthus. 

To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You’ll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you’re an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. 

Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.

Common name: Huang qi 

Botanical name: Astragalus membranaceus 

Parts used and where grown

Astragalus is native to northern China and the elevated regions of the Chinese provinces, Yunnan and Sichuan. The portion of the plant used medicinally is the four- to seven-year-old dried root, collected in the spring. While over 2,000 types of astragalus exist worldwide, the Chinese version has been extensively tested, both chemically and pharmacologically. 

Click here to view chart 

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Shen Nung, the founder of Chinese herbal medicine, classified astragalus as a superior herb in his classical treatise Shen Nung Pen Tsao Ching (circa A.D. 100). The Chinese name huang qi translates as “yellow leader,” referring to the yellow color of the root and its status as one of the most important tonic herbs. Traditional Chinese Medicine used this herb for night sweats, deficiency of chi (e.g., fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite), and diarrhea. 

Active constituents

Astragalus contains numerous components, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides (e.g., astragalosides I–VII), amino acids, and trace minerals. Several preliminary clinical trials in China have suggested that astragalus can benefit immune function and improve survival in some people with cancer. Given the poor quality of these trials, it is difficult to know how useful astragalus really was. One Chinese trial also found that astragalus could decrease overactive immune function in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease. Further trials are needed, however, to know if astragalus is safe for people with SLE, or any other autoimmune disease. 

A double-blind trial found that, in people undergoing dialysis for kidney failure, intravenous astragalus improved one facet of immune function compared to the immune function of untreated people. Further study is needed to determine if astragalus can help prevent infections in people undergoing dialysis. Early clinical trials in China suggest astragalus root might also benefit people with chronic viral hepatitis, though it may take one to two months to see results. 

In preliminary trials in China, astragalus has been used after people suffer heart attacks. More research is needed to determine whether astragalus is truly beneficial in this situation. 

How much is usually taken?

Textbooks on Chinese herbs recommend taking 9–15 grams of the crude herb per day in decoction form.9 A decoction is made by boiling the root in water for a few minutes and then brewing the tea. Alternatively, 3–5 ml of tincture three times per day, are sometimes recommended. 

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Astragalus has no known side effects when used as recommended. 

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with astragalus. 

Visit www.althealthconnect.com for lots of informational articles categorized into different heads. Want to read interesting articles on alternative health medicine? Browse our in-depth database of articles from top professionals across the industry. Topics range from alternative and complementary practices to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care.

According to Reed Davis, http://sdnhfc.com/, he notes that of all the forms of stress in today’s world, computer stress is the one that is on the rise the fastest. Is the time you are with your computer competing with the time you are in front of the television set? Hmmm, something to think about! A type of computer stress is computers being constantly “there”. They never go away. You feel obligated to reading and responding to emails, staying currently on blog updates and other social networks, constantly researching the internet for things that interest you throughout the day, and more. Before you know it, hours have gone by with you sitting in front of your computer. Also, sometimes computers have confusing error messages that you don’t know how to fix, and sometimes they just don’t work the way you want them to work! Those little buggers! 

Computers can create havoc on your body, mind, and spirit, if you let them! For instance, you might notice that your eyesight getting worse the more you do computer work. Your shoulders might be starting to round forward along with your head and neck jutting forward to where you are collapsing on/over your chest, and you are feeling like the letter C. Possibly your arms, hands, and fingers might be going numb. Maybe your butt feels sore, because you are sitting on it way too much!  In general, you are feeling blah even though it’s summer time and with all kinds of fun activities to do! 

Here are some ideas to lessen your computer stress (and TV time):-

- Take a break when you are working “for hours” at the computer. Go outside and walk, breathe, meditate, exercise, eat a nice meal, drink water, etc. and do this periodically throughout the day.

- Do the Bates Method daily to improve your eyesight. Google “Bates Method”.

- Establish one day a week where you don’t touch the computer!

- Schedule a daily appointment for “computer hours” and make the rest of the day everything else.

- Consider a new hobby so you can be away from your computer longer.

- If you can’t get away from the computer, then consider a rebounder to help get the blood and lymph flowing and your cells bouncing!

- Making an appointment with your favorite massage-bodywork practitioner to release stress, improve your posture, get rid of pain and numbness, and more!  

Just know, no matter what you do, your computer will always be there for you!  But maybe your perspective about computers and your “need” for them will change to where computers don’t “rule” your life! 

To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You’ll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you’re an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. 

Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection. 

Given below are contact details of a Massage Therapist 

Alexi Dankeith

Email: alexi@thetranquilitycenter.net | Phone: 760-213-5022    

Website: www.thetranquilitycenter.net

Common names: Korean ginseng, Chinese ginseng 

Parts used and where grown

Asian ginseng is a member of the Araliaceae family, which also includes the closely related American ginseng  (Panax quinquefolius) and less similar Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), also known as eleuthero. Asian ginseng commonly grows on mountain slopes and is usually harvested in the fall. The root is used, preferably from plants older than six years of age. 

Click here to view chart 

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Asian ginseng has been a part of Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. The first reference to the use of Asian ginseng dates to the 1st century A.D. Ginseng is commonly used by elderly people in the Orient to improve mental and physical vitality. 

Active constituents

Ginseng’s actions in the body are thought to be due to a complex interplay of constituents. The primary group are the ginsenosides, which are believed to counter the effects of stress and enhance intellectual and physical performance. Thirteen ginsenosides have been identified in Asian ginseng. Two of them, ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1, have been closely studied. Other constituents include the panaxans, which may help lower blood sugar, and the polysaccharides (complex sugar molecules), which are thought to support immune function. 

Long-term intake of Asian ginseng may be linked to a reduced risk of some forms of cancer. A double-blind trial found that 200 mg of Asian ginseng per day improved blood sugar levels in people with type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. Human trials have mostly failed to confirm the purported benefit of Asian ginseng for the enhancement of athletic performance. One preliminary trial suggests it may help those in poor physical condition to tolerate exercise better. In combination with some vitamins and minerals, 80 mg of ginseng per day was found to effectively reduce fatigue in a double-blind trial. Another double-blind trial also found it helpful for relief of fatigue and, possibly, stress. Although there are no human clinical trials, adaptogenic herbs such as Asian ginseng may be useful for people with chronic fatigue syndrome. This may be because these herbs are thought to have an immuno-modulating effect and also help support the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the hormonal stress system of the body. 

Asian ginseng may also prove useful for male infertility. A double-blind trial with a large group of infertile men found that 4 grams of Asian ginseng per day for three months led to an improvement in sperm count and sperm motility. 

Asian ginseng may also help men with erectile dysfunction. A double-blind trial in Korea found that 1,800 mg per day of Asian ginseng extract for three months helped improve libido and the ability to maintain an erection in men with erectile dysfunction. This finding was confirmed in another double-blind study, in which 900 mg three times a day was given for eight weeks. 

How much is usually taken?

The most researched form of ginseng, standardized herbal extracts, supply approximately 5–7% ginsenosides. Ginseng root extracts are sometimes recommended at 200–500 mg per day. Non-standardized extracts require a higher intake, generally 1–4 grams per day for tablets or 2–3 ml for dried root tincture three times per day. Ginseng is traditionally used for two to three weeks continuously, followed by a one- to two-week “rest” period before resuming. 

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Used in the recommended amounts, ginseng is generally safe. In rare instances, it may cause over-stimulation and possibly insomnia. Consuming caffeine with ginseng increases the risk of over-stimulation and gastrointestinal upset. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure should use ginseng cautiously. Long-term use of ginseng may cause menstrual abnormalities and breast tenderness in some women. Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. 

Are there any drug interactions?

Certain medicines may interact with Asian ginseng. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines. 

To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You’ll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you’re an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. 

Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.

Botanical name: Withania somniferum 

Parts used and where grown

Ashwagandha, which belongs to the pepper family, is found in India and Africa. The roots of ashwagandha are used medicinally. 

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

The health applications for ashwagandha in traditional Indian and Ayurvedic medicine are extensive. Of particular note is its use against tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases. The shoots and seeds are also used as food and to thicken milk in India. Traditional uses of ashwagandha among tribal peoples in Africa include fevers and inflammatory conditions. Ashwagandha is frequently a constituent of Ayurvedic formulas, including a relatively common one known as shilajit. 

Click here to view chart 

Active constituents

The constituents believed to be active in ashwagandha have been extensively studied. Compounds known as withanolides are believed to account for the multiple medicinal applications of ashwagandha. These molecules are steroidal and bear a resemblance, both in their action and appearance, to the active constituents of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) known as ginsenosides. Indeed, ashwagandha has been called “Indian ginseng” by some. Ashwagandha and its withanolides have been extensively researched in a variety of animal studies examining effects on immune function, inflammation, and even cancer. Ashwagandha stimulates the activation of immune system cells, such as lymphocytes. It has also been shown to inhibit inflammation and improve memory in animal experiments. Taken together, these actions may support the traditional reputation of ashwagandha as a tonic or adaptogen —an herb with multiple, nonspecific actions that counteract the effects of stress and generally promote wellness. 

How much is usually taken?

Some experts recommend 3–6 grams of the dried root, taken each day in capsule or tea form. To prepare a tea, 3/4–1 1/4 teaspoons (3–6 grams) of ashwagandha root are boiled for 15 minutes and cooled; 3 cups (750 ml) may be drunk daily. Alternatively, tincture 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–4 ml) three times per day, is sometimes recommended. 

Are there any side effects or interactions?

No significant side effects have been reported with ashwagandha. The herb has been used safely by children in India. Its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown. 

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with ashwagandha. 

The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you’re looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you’re in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection! 

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Bringing up kids is akin to building a special project from scratch. Trusting your instincts and applying what you have learned from past experience is helpful in both cases. But in the process of raising kids, what happens when your special project does not come with a detailed instruction manual? Remember when you were a new parent? How long did it take for your patience to run out? How many times now do your positive intentions toward your children turn sour? How long are we going to keep blaming each other for the problems we face? 

We all know that people learn to parent from their own parents. As children we grew up learning our family’s values, rules, and roles, whether we liked them or not. We experienced growing pains and learned to cope by adapting and rebelling. As we passed the milestones of our development, we emerged with some sense of selfhood. 

The challenge facing parents of the new millennium is how to break destructive patterns we learned from our own parents and others who cared for us. How well are you and your spouse or significant other working together to develop positive parenting skills? 

The first step in the process of transforming any of your relationships is to be aware of specifically what isn’t working for you and the other person involved. When you are responding or reacting to your child’s (mis)behavior, it’s best to be calm and centered while taking the necessary disciplinary actions to create a learning opportunity, instead of using punishment or shame. Remember, children want to feel good about themselves and their behavior. Even though they may be too young to have a discussion about their actions, they will understand “no” without you needing to yell or get physical. Unless we adults focus on creating win-win solutions, the same problems, issues, or situations will keep showing up again and again. “Acting out” by children is usually a cry for love and attention. Children who are misunderstood, neglected, abused or rejected over time tend to be more depressed, anxious, and rebellious as they get older, creating issues that may involve hurting themselves or others (you included), using drugs, getting in trouble with the law and/or sabotaging their success at school. It’s not too late to start now in setting positive goals to meet both your needs and your children’s. Commit to consciously taking charge of changing your own thoughts, feeling, and behavior first. Creating new habits that really work in your relationships depend on your willingness to approach life with compassion while learning new tools and skills that you as an involved and invested parent can practice consistently everyday. Parents and caretakers, not children, are ultimately responsible for initiating positive changes. Remember, you “signed up” to take on this very important mission, so deciding to make your parenting role a rewarding positive growth experience will not only strengthen your love connection with your child, but also give you a deeper sense of personal fulfillment and pride. 

THE SEVEN KEYS TO BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN YOUR KIDS:   

1. Create a safe and loving home environment. A nurturing and supportive atmosphere to live in helps all of us thrive, feel more secure and trusting. Then we feel more comfortable being part of a family group as well as taking necessary risks we need to in order to express ourselves, learn and grow. 

2. Develop a positive attitude and model healthy behavior and communication skills. Kids learn through your example. A “do what I say, not as I do” attitude sends a confusing double message. Modeling positive, goal-directed behavior is the most powerful way a parent teaches children. This way of being is a natural result of feeling confident and good about yourself. Kids respond well to directives communicated with finesse. This transforms overly dependent relationships with your kids and others into mutually interdependent ones. 

3. When challenging situations affect the whole family, discuss your concerns with your spouse first. Decide together how to share your true thoughts and feelings with your children in age appropriate ways. Holding back the truth to protect kids from life does nothing to solve problems or meet the challenges they face. Work through your own fears, anger, hurt, sadness or grief and get on with life! 

4. Learn to empathize with your children even if you don’t agree with what they are feeling or doing. There’s a reason they are feeling and acting the way they are. It’s our job to find out what’s the underlying cause of their upset or acting out behavior. This takes some practice and knowing your child. Remember, you were once their age and went through similar if not identical problems. Putting yourself in their shoes and seeing life from their perspective will really help you both keep your loving connection strong. 

5. Recognize and treat each child as an individual. Kids are not here to make you happy or to be extensions for what you did not achieve. Notice their unique talents and interests and encourage those activities they are most likely to enjoy and succeed in. Be aware not to compare your child with other children in your lives. Kids need to be acknowledged for who they are as much as adults do. Start now and score with your kids!  

6. Be consistent, firm, and yet loving in your discipline efforts. A firm sounding voice and a simple explanation will be more helpful in letting your younger children know that you mean what you say. Your job is to keep kids safe from danger without restricting their natural spontaneity. Be sure to give them plenty of hugs and positive verbal reinforcement. An autocratic discipline style and lack of goodwill engenders unhealthy fear and a lower self-esteem in kids. Older children and teens need to be included in setting their own rules and in determining logical consequences for breaking the rules to learn self-discipline. If one parent is too strict and the other too lenient, it’s important to work out your differences in parenting styles and present a united front in front of the kids. It’s a good idea to hold a family meeting once a week to set the family team into action, evaluate what’s working and what needs improving. Allow children to take turns being the facilitator of these meetings to encourage participation and democratic leadership. 

7. Educate yourself about childhood development and the normal stages that parents and kids go through together. Each stage offers opportunities to learn how to maximize your children’s potential. This process gets easier the more you resolve your own painful childhood issues that are triggered by your child, like your parents’ divorce when you were nine, for example. Children learn the best from their own experiences, not from being lectured at about yours. Provide them with a safety net and soft place to fall when children make mistakes or go through disappointments. Be prepared to continually “let go” of your children both emotionally and physically, as you have done with your own parents over the years. Stay involved by looking for the positive in your kids, while looking out for behavior or other issues that may need special attention from you, the school, or other professionals before they become entrenched. 

Finally, enjoy your kids and the time you have together. Life is too short and your kids grow up too fast to waste precious time overworking or being emotionally unavailable when you could be spending time having fun together. Trust that there is enough time and money to do all the things you want to and go for it!  

Visit www.althealthconnect.com for lots of informational articles categorized into different heads. Want to read interesting articles on alternative health medicine? Browse our in-depth database of articles from top professionals across the industry. Topics range from alternative and complementary practices to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. 

Given below are contact details of some Marriage & Family Therapists – 

Mariabruna Sirabella, LMFT          

Email: varunas@sbcglobal.net | Phone: 831-768-1442     

Seena B. Frost M. Div LMFT

Email: seena@soulcollage.com  Phone: 831-722-0383 

Vivian Gratton, LMFT Intern

Email: vivian@balancedmind.us | Phone: 831-457-6684

Botanical name: Pimpinella anisum 

Parts used and where grown

The seeds of this aromatic plant are used as both medicine and as a cooking spice. Anise comes from Eurasia but is now grown in gardens all over the world. 

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Anise has been an important flavoring in European cooking since time immemorial. Its oil has also been used as an anthelmintic—a drug used to remove intestinal parasites—though it is not considered the strongest plant in this regard. Anise has also been used for centuries in European herbalism to treat coughs and indigestion. 

Active constituents

The active constituents in anise, particularly the terpenoid anethole, are contained in its volatile oil. The volatile oil gives the plant a delightful flavor and has been combined with other less pleasant tasting medicinal herbs to offset their taste. The oil is also antispasmodic, helping to relieve intestinal gas and spasmodic coughs. Anise has been combined with cathartic laxatives to help reduce the spasmodic cramping they can cause. It may also have modest antiparasitic actions and has been recommended by some practitioners to treat mild intestinal parasite infections. Anethole has been documented to have phytoestrogen activity in test tubes and animals; the relevance of this to humans is unknown. No clinical trials have been conducted to support any of these uses, though anise is approved for use by the German Commission E for relieving coughs and indigestion. 

How much is usually taken?

Three grams (1/2 tsp) of the seeds can be used three times per day to treat indigestion. To make a tea, boil 2 to 3 grams (1/2 tsp) of crushed seeds in 250 ml (1 cup) of water for ten to fifteen minutes, keeping the pot covered. Three cups of this tea can be drunk per day. It has been recommended to combine approximately 0.5 ml anise volatile oil with 4 oz (120 ml) tincture of anise and then take 10 to 30 drops (1/2 to 1.5 ml) of this mixture three times daily for coughs. The volatile oil can also be inhaled (by placing it in a vaporizer or in a steaming bowl of water) to help relieve a cough. 

Are there any side effects or interactions?

There are no known adverse effects from anise other than occasional allergic reactions of the skin with topical use and of the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract with internal use. It is frequently used to alleviate cough in children because of its gentleness and pleasant taste. The safety of using anise during pregnancy and breast-feeding is unknown, though it is very likely safe and has traditionally been used to support breast-feeding in some cultures. 

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with anise. 

To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You’ll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you’re an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. 

Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection. 

Browse our in-depth database of articles from top professionals across the industry. Topics range from alternative and complementary practices to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care.

Some 15 million Americans suffer from recurring headaches and spend millions of dollars each year for headache remedies which give only temporary relief. There are two major types of chronic headaches: the tension headache and the migraine headache. 

Tension headaches are the most common type occurring at the base of the skull due to irritation of the muscles and nerves in this area. Migraine headaches are caused by the stretching of the nerves of the head. These headaches may last several hours or several days and may be mild or severe. The symptoms are: irritability, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances and are incapacitating. There are several direct nerve involvements and nerve reflex factors which influence these headaches. 

Chiropractors have been helping migraine victims for years. Chiropractic researchers have discovered that the stretched arteries and nerves causing migraines and tension headaches are stretched in the neck by vertebral misalignment. If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, seek a Chiropractor for care. 

The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you’re looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you’re in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection! 

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Here are the contact details of some Chiropractors – 

Lawrence Bakur      

Email: drlawrence7@yahoo.com | Phone: 619-955-3303  

Website: www.lifestreamchiro.com          

Dr. Aaron Hinde, DC

Email: hindechiro@sbcglobal.net | Phone: 831 438 4901  

Website: www.hinde.chiroweb.com                   

Dr. Patrick McCauley          

Email: vikhealth@yahoo.com | Phone: 650 938-3737      

Website: www.vikchiropractic.com