Optimal Health

Bill Cosby Swears by Homeopathic Remedy

“His regimen to fight his cold includes Vitamin C … A secret ingredient to his recovery is Oscillococcinum. … his wife turned him on to alternative health when they moved to Los Angeles in the mid-1960s… But he says he’s trying to spread the gospel of Oscillococcinum.

“‘I’ve learned to pronounce Oscillococcinum because so many people don’t know anything about it,’ …

“‘If you call people and they say, ‘Oh, man, I’m coming down with…,’ you tell them ‘Go to the drug store and get that box. It’s the only medicine with a lot of S’s and a lot of C’s in the first word. …’

‘They call back. ‘Did you get it?’ ‘No, I haven’t gone yet.’ They’re wheezing and sneezing and (have a) headache. ‘Here, hang up the phone and go.’ And they still don’t go. Why? ‘Because I don’t know how to pronounce it.’ So it becomes very, very funny and you get frustrated because you know it’s going to work.’”

—“Bill Cosby on colds: Not so funny; Comedian swears byFrench formula,” by Bruce Fessier,The Desert Sun, Palm Springs, CA, February 11, 2010

What is the Difference between Homeopathy vs. Herbs vs. Supplements

Let me pass on some healthy experience and advice for the holidays based on my 27 years experience as a healer ~ 

1.) Homeopathy uses little white pills that come in little blue plastic tubes.   You put them into the bottle cap and then under the tongue.  There are thousands of homeopathic remedies.  

They are made from either plants, minerals, or parts of animals (like the venum of the snake, or mother’s milk.)

Homeopathy is very similar to vaccinations, or allergy shots.  It uses a very, very, very tiny amount of the original substance to stimulate the body to heal itself.   

There are never side effects with homeoapthy, but sometimes your old symptoms will temporarily come back the during the treatment.  This is a sign you are on the right homeopathic treatment.

Many pharmacists and Medical professionals do not “believe” in homeopathy becuase it uses such a small dose.

But for anyone who has treated their dog, cat, or infant with homeopathy, you know it couldn’t be a placebo effect, because your pet or infant gets well so quick when you select the right homeopathic treatment.

2.)  Herbs are similar to drugs except we use the whole plant to make the herbal tablet or capsule.   By using the whole plant, there are no side effects.    (The only exception to this is if you are also taking Western medications.  Then we need to make sure there are no conflicts between the two.)

There are Chinese herbs and American herbs.  Since I”m a Doctor of Chinese medicine, I use mostly Chinese herbs.

Chinese herbs are quality controlled here in the United States and are completely safe.  The only side effect might be diarrhea from taking too many at the same time.

Chinese herbs are used to treat everything from hypertension, back pain, PMS, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, colds, flu, irritability, impatience, urinary infections, low sex drive, infertility, to enhance breast size and arthritis.

3.)  Supplements include vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.   Everyone should be taking the right vitamins and minerals for their body type, age, and sex.   I can help you determine the right vitamins and mineral to take based on your blood test or hair analysis.

Amino acids are capsules you take to enhance mood and improve brain function.  We use them mostly for problems like low sex drive, ADD, ADHD, fatigue, memory, concentration, insomnia and hyperactivity.

My preference is to use all three, along with acupuncture.  The people I have seen over the years who use herbs, homeopathy, supplements and acupuncture, and who also exercise and eat a healthy diet, are the happiest and most healthy.

Best of luck on your healing path.

New Years Resolution - Start Taking Your Supplements

Summary:  Everyone needs the most basic supplements, which include:

*Omega 3, 6, 9 Oils

*Probiotics

*Magnesium

*Multi Vitamin/Mineral Fromula for your age and gender

*CoQ10 for your cardio-vascular system

*Individualized program based on symptoms and blood analysis 

We all need vitamin and mineral supplements — Right?  With our higher levels of awareness for our body’s health and healing process, who could logically say:  “No—-not me, I don’t need vitamins?”  

One might say that medical doctors and many scientific investigators don’t believe in the need for supplements, but this is no longer true.  In recent classes I’ve taught to medical doctors throughout the Los Angeles area, I’ve seen an incredible interest among many physicians  and an honest desire to learn what’s best for their patients.   Many of these docs are taking vitamins, herbs and other supplements themselves and seeing firsthand that they really work!

Some of the most common reasons for taking vitamin and mineral supplements are:

1.  Large-scale commercial agra-business has depleted our soils of nutrients.  Soil has been scientifically researched and found to be deficient in many necessary minerals.  Organically grown food is much better, and richer in vitamins and nutrients, but is more costly and still hard to obtain for our everyday needs.

2.  Pesticides are used around our homes, are found in most of the foods we eat, and are hidden in the form of ant and roach “hotels”, moth balls, mildew removers, fungicides, termite eradication and others.  These pesticides inevitably get into our body.

3.  Other environmental pollutants also claim a toll on the body, creating a need for more anti-oxidants and other minerals and vitamins.

4.  Smog:  Living in Los Angeles, we are all subject to the effects of poor air quality.  Breathing smog on a daily basis depletes the body of anti-oxidants.

5.  Smoking, prescription medications, recreational drugs and alcohol deplete the body of valuable nutrients and electrolytes.  This is why most people who smoke have a lot of dental and bone density problems:  The minerals needed to build healthy teeth and bones have been leached out of the system.

6.  Electromagnetic Field Pollution is everywhere.  From airports, cell phones, X-Rays, MRI’s, radio waves, microwaves, television and computer screens, we are constantly bombarded by radiation in every direction we turn.  If you own an electro-magnetic field detector as I do, you’d be amazed by measuring the amount of daily radiation you are subjected to.   Radiation alters your electro-magnetic field, your chi/energy, and personal gravitational center, thus causing stress-induced depletion of minerals and vitamins.

7.  We all live under tremendous stress.  Unless you live in the desert  and are on retreat 100% of the time, it’s likely that your endocrine system, including your adrenal glands and thyroid, are functioning on overdrive much of the time.  Stress depletes the body of its essential nutrients, including vital antioxidants and electrolytes.

8.  The “Quickening” — Few could argue that we perceive time as speeding up.  The physical body is dealing with a constant onslaught of energy, the mental body is constantly overwhelmed by too much data and information, and the emotional body is being called upon to integrate and make sense of all this additional information.  All of this contributes to stress, which depletes the body by sending it into “overdrive” much of the time.

But which supplements are the best ones for your particular body and mind?  Although we are all mostly exposed to the same common environmental problems,  not everyone needs the same products. 

Our bodies vary tremendously, and so do our physiological needs.  

In 1996, Dr. Roger Williams, the scientist who discovered Pantothenic Acid, wrote a book called Biochemical Individuality.   In this book, he discusses various research studies demonstrating people’s unique needs. 

This is why  the best way to determine your individual needs is through individualized testing and analysis.   And the most reliable form of testing uses the blood.

Health is relative, and a person who doesn’t have a known disease is not necessarily healthy.  So the best way to analyze blood chemistry is in terms of “optimum” rather than “normal.”

Your blood is alive!   By that I mean that your blood is electrically charged.  Each mineral molecule in the blood carries either a positive or negative electrical charge.   Each negative charge is attracted to a positive charge and each positive charge is attracted to a negative charge.

Problems like insomnia, low or high blood pressure, weight gain or loss, fluid retention, arthritis, colitis, constipation, allergies or asthma all begin to make sense when we look at the blood in this way.  

 Looking at the typical blood chemistry analysis and CBC, I have an entire picture of exactly which organs are weak, or “under-active,” and strong, or “over-active,” from the point of view of Chinese medicine.   

Taken together, these two methods of blood test analysis give a very clear indication of which supplements and herbs are needed to bring the body into balance for optimal functioning.  

How to Withdraw More Easily from Prescription Medications, Smoking or Drugs, and Even Succeed at Your Weight Loss or Quit-Smoking Program.

It’s important to NEVER stop taking any prescription medications without the advice and support of your Medical Doctor.  The reasons are explained below:

Many times, patients come to me with the primary desire to stop taking their prescription medications or recreational drugs.  Other times, patients see themselves getting healthier and more balanced after receiving holistic treatments, and they ask me if they can get off one of their prescription medications.  Still other people, may have inadvertently become accustomed to taking a medication for the side effects of a surgery or an accident or trauma in their lives, and then they want to get off the medication after their life becomes more stable.The medication could be an anti-depressant, hypertension medication, anti-histamine, pain medications, hyper-acidity medications, diet pill, prescription hormones, marijuana, alcohol, or any number of other prescription medications or self-medications, such as sugar, carbohydrate addiction, caffeine addiction or hard drugs.

I would like to quickly outline below the most common mistakes I see my patients making when they try to get themselves off their medications, independent of their doctor’s advice:

1.  They do not first discuss their plan with their Medical Doctor.  It’s really, really important to not only discuss your plan with your Medical Doctor first, but to also get his or her approval for your plan.  This is because your Medical Doctor is in the best position to help you develop a rational plan for how to withdrawal off your medications.   Your Doctor knows your medical history, and also the pharmaceutical effects of the medication you are taking.  He or she is in the best position to help you develop a strategy for exactly how to stop the medication, and in exactly what increments it will be best to do it.

2.  Going too fast.  Many people start feeling really good after they start acupuncture or homeopathy and then they just stop their other medications, or stop them too fast.  This usually leads to having to go back onto their medications.  However, the best way is to actually go a lot slower then you might want to.  Thus you can head off any negative effects and catch yourself before you start feeling bad or your symptoms come back.   If you think you might want to stop over a period of three months, then extend it to six months.  The longer you take to do this, the more success you will probably have in the end.

3.  Not taking the right natural supplements as you taper off your prescription medications.  The body acclimates or even becomes addicted to some prescription medications.  When on a medication, your metabolism or hormones or neurotransmitters may have completely changed.   So if you are going to stop taking that medication, or significantly reduce it, it’s important to feed your body and mind with the nutrients needed to begin to work correctly without the medication.   Without taking natural supplements to replace your body’s dependance on the medications, it is much, much harder to go off any prescription medications.  Obviously, it can be done, but it’s a lot more challenging.

Here is a list of some of some of the more common natural supplements I sometimes recommend my patients take during this most difficult time.

*Homeopathic Kali phos - to support the nerves
*Homeopathic Mag phos - for relaxation, stress and for spasms
*Homeopathic Bio-Plasma - for overall support to keep the system strong during the transition
*Rescue Remedy - for the anxiety and panic that might occur.  Good to keep on hand*Homeopathic Tobaccum - for tobacco withdrawal
*Homeopathic Arnica - if you feel “beat up” and achy all over
*Homeopathic Aconite - for panic in the middle of the night or extreme fear anytime
*Amino Acids:  Theanine, Tryptophan, 5HTP, Taurine, Arginine, GABA, or a good mix of amino acids to support the system during withdrawl.   These amino acids will help to relax the nervous system, and reduce anxiety and alleviate other symtpoms of withdrawl.
*High Potency B-Vitamins - overall support
*Multi-Mineral Formula including large amounts of Magnesium and Calcium - relaxation and to keep the nerves and muscles from creating pain or spasms
*Plenty of fluids.  This should include electrolytes like Emergen-C, and detox tea such as Dandelion and Licorice (to balance the blood sugar).  Detox and blood sugar stability is critical!
*Extra Chromium to balance the blood sugar
*Herbal Pain Relievers for Pain and Herbal Sleep Medications to help with sleep. - I have many in my office and there are many others on the market.  Find what works for you and have it in your medicine cabinet for those times you need it.
*Rejuvamen HGH for energy
*Ponay Tea for energy, weight loss, and to assure assimilation of your proteins and fats
*Protein Powder made with Rice Protein for Detox and blood sugar.  (May also be used as weight loss aid to replace one or two meals per day.)
*Carry Protein Bars with you throughout the day to stop a sudden drop in blood sugar before it occurs. Exercise and breath are also key ingredients.  Exercise, even just daily walking, really will help. And if you cannot get out and exercise daily, try and remember to do breathing exercises, or Tai Chi, or some other centering exercise with breathing.

One really relaxing exercise is called “Cupping” or “Palming”.   Here is a web link for how to do it: 

http://community.livejournal.com/holistic_vision/tag/yoga

By relaxing your eyes, your brain will also stop repeating the same thoughts over and over again.  The eyes are a window to how the mind works.For women, it’s important to regulate the hormones.  If you are menstruating, then regulating and balancing your periods is critical to success.  There are many herbal formulas, and acupuncture, to aid in doing this.  If you are in menopause, it’s critical to balance your hormones, as any additional stress might throw your hormones off and cause another layer of symptoms. In my experience, the people who have the greatest success in withdrawing off prescription medications, stopping an addictive behavior or substance, or stopping recreational drugs have one quality in common:  They don’t give up!Time and time again, I see people stopping treatments or stopping their natural supplements, only to return 6 months later, back on their medications, or addicted again to a drug or harmful behavior.  They say “it didn’t work.”  But actually it did work, but they didn’t stick to the natural program long enough to see the results really take root.  The people who are really successful have follow-through. In general, it’s a good idea to really think through your choice before getting off any prescription medication and to discuss it with your Medical Doctor before making any decisions.  The worst thing you can do is to just go off it on your own without any support.    Your Medical Doctor should be the lead doctor in this decision, and remember to do it very, very slowly, if you really want to succeed.Lastly, anyone who has received acupuncture knows the relaxing effects.  So if you are not phobic of needles, and it’s convenient to get into an acupuncturist’s office, then regular treatments will really help at this transition time.  Even daily treatments for the first week are a good idea, or at least weekly or every other week.  Health insurance usually covers a percentage of the acupuncture treatments as well. Best of Luck on your healing journey. 

Alternative and Complementary Medicine for use During Pregnancy by Dr. Randy Martin

These days, it’s not uncommon for many of us to want to explore our options in life.  Not only in life, but also in our healthcare.  And what better time to do just that then in choosing the best for yourself, your family, and your newest addition to your family – your new baby. 

Many of us are increasingly becoming aware that the way we treat our body during pregnancy can have a pretty large influence on the health of your baby.  And that is where Alternative and Complementary Medicine comes in. 

Most Medical Doctor’s generally agree that it’s not a great idea to fill yourself up with drugs during the pregnancy period.  And that is why many Medical Doctors are beginning to recommend Alternative or Complementary Medicine.   It is now common for Medical Doctors to refer to me their female pregnant patients.

Q:  So What is Alternative or Complementary Medicine Anyway? 

A:  So-called Alternative or Complementary Medicine refers to any type of medical treatment that is not traditional.  This might include Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, Homeopathy, Massage, Chiropractic, or Psychotherapy.  There are other forms of alternative therapies as well.

Q:  How would I decide if I need an alternative type of treatment?

A:  During pregnancy, it’s always preferable not to use drugs.  So most problems that occur during pregnancy offer you an opportunity to explore alternative methods.  Common problems treated during pregnancy using alternative methods include tension headaches, migraines, constipation, varicosity, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, digestive problems, moodiness and depression or anxiety.

Q:  How do I know which type of treatment is best for me?

A:  You have a wide variety of options when it comes to alternative or complementary medicine during pregnancy.  The most common is acupuncture.  Acupuncture is perfectly safe to use during pregnancy.  There are certain specific points that should not be used during pregnancy, but other acupuncture points are fine to use.   Additionally, there are specific acupuncture points that are generally used during the first and second trimester that are said to eradicate bad genetic traits so they won’t be passed down to your baby.

Homeopathy offers yet another option during pregnancy.  Very safe, homeopathy is very effective at eliminating headaches, back pain, and emotional issues such as depression and anxiety.

Chinese and Western herbs may also be used.  But it’s important to avoid certain herbs that are known to weaken the pregnancy.  It’s best to always consult a holistic health professional and not to use herbs on your own during pregnancy.

Q:  Is Homeopathy and Acupuncture safe for use during pregnancy?

A:  Actually, homeopathy and acupuncture are some of the only safe treatments to use during pregnancy.  Make sure someone who has experience treating pregnant women is treating you.

Q:  What could I expect if I were to try Acupuncture or Homeopathy?

A:  Generally, you can expect to receive one or two acupuncture treatments per week for two or three weeks.  This should be long enough to know if it’s effective.  If your symptoms return, you will probably want to resume treatments immediately.

Homeopathic treatments are very simple.  You will be given one or two small white pellets to place under your tongue once or twice per day.  Some homeopathic remedies are only taken once, and once only.  If your problem is recent, and you have no history of this problem, expect results rather quickly, within a few days.  The homeopathic remedy can be changed if you do not get the desired result.

Q:  Should I tell my Medical doctor that I intend on trying some alternative methods during my pregnancy? 

A:  YES!!!!  Never start on a regimen of acupuncture, herbs or homeopathy without your Medical Doctors knowledge.  The teamwork approach is the best, with all your health providers having full knowledge of what healing methods you will be using.  This way, the results can be evaluated more quickly and effectively.  I have a few Medical Doctors who refer their patients to me for treatment during pregnancy because they have seen the quick results and they know it is safe.

Some of the common types of treatments are the use of herbal ginger for morning sickness.  Also, the use of homeopathic Ipecac is very effective for stopping morning sickness or vomiting due to pregnancy.

For turning the fetus, we use an acupuncture point called UB 67.  This can be used with needles, or heat treatment, called Moxa, or acupressure massage. 

If the labor fails to begin, we can use various homeopathic remedies to bring it on.  One of the remedies I’ve had a lot of success with includes homeopathic Pulsatilla.  I also sometimes use homeopathic tincture of Pulsatilla. 

To tonify the fetus and make for a healthier baby, many homeopaths will use a remedy called Calc phos. Caulophyllum homeopathic is sometimes used by homeopaths during the last trimester to help ready the pelvic muscles, ligaments and tendons so that the birth process will be easier for mother and baby.

As with all alternative methods, it’s always best for the specific treatments chosen to be based on the individual being treated and their specific symptoms.  In other words, not all women with migraine headaches should be given the same treatment.  Each person should be treated as an individual.  This is the sign of the good doctor or practitioner.  Choose your doctor based on a referral list if at all possible. Also do some research, and ask a lot of questions.  Finally, use your gut feelings to determine if this is the right doctor for you and your particular issue.   The doctor may have come with a great recommendation, but if he or she doesn’t feel right to you, then find another.

Anxiety Article 

A Follow-Up by Dr. Randy Martin, OMD, PdD, LAc, QME

I received a number of emails from both professionals and patients, who are on my email list, giving me feedback on my article on Anxiety.   They had some good points, which I would like to share with you.    I am going to briefly condense and summarize the feedback below. 

The feedback fell into three categories:

1.  Some people’s anxiety might stem not from situational problems going on currently, but the anxiety may stem from deeper problems from childhood.  Other people may have experienced a stressful situation that keeps getting re-triggered.

These people are suffering from a type of post traumatic stress disorder, which keeps getting triggered by current events in their life.   If you have anxiety that is the result of re-triggered post traumatic stress disorder, you may need to also be recieving treatment that is deeper acting, and addressing the core of the earlier trauma.

There are many resources available for deeper acting treatments.  If you think you have anxiety that is being re-triggered from an earlier traumatic incident or family experience, and you want to try and get rid of that trauma from  your life, please schedule a time to see me and we can work out an individualized treatment plan for you that addresses the deeper trauma.

2.  Other feedback that I got was that we must be careful when we take natural medications.  Although in general they are safe, in certain situations, natural medications can negatively interact with your prescription medications.   It’s always best to check in with your Medical Doctor before starting on new herbs, vitamins or amino acids, just to be sure there will be no negative interactions with your other medications.

I also like to warn my patients that when taking any natural supplements, please be certain to either check with me to be sure it is a good one for you and your particular problem.  In most cases, natural products, including herbs, vitamins and amino acids are perfectly safe.  But it never hurts to just check in to be sure.  Side effects have been known to occur in some people.

Also I like my patients to alternate their products, never staying on the same product more than a few months.  This is because the body can acclimate to that product and it will stop working.  In other cases, the product may start to cause some toxicity in your system or unexpected side effects if you keep taking it for long periods of time.

3.  Finally, I received a number of comments from psychotherapists, reminding me that for many people, having counseling or in depth psychotherapy helps quite a bit when working with your anxiety.  Of course, like anything else, the type of therapy is very important.   Some types of therapy are not very helpful, while other types can be a savior!   There are many types  of counseling and therapy, and I can discuss this on a one on one basis, helping to match you with the right type, if you are interested in a referral to a counselor or therapist.

Start Your Morning Off Right!!!  GREAT MORNING DRINK

I love this morning supplement routine!  And not too expensive.   Take a glass of water, and add to it:

1.  Emergen-C - my favorite is either Cranberry for urinary health or Heart Health - use one packet.  Available at Trader Joes.

2.  One scoop of Corvalen - this is a new product made from D-robose.   It is designed for muscular health, fibromyalgia, and physical energy.   Order directly from EmersonEcologics.com.   Just put in my name as your doctor, open your own account and they will send it to you with 10% off the retail price.

http://www.emersonecologics.com/ProductInformation.asp?BrowseBy=CORV9

3.  One scoop of Greens Formula - this is a great formula for energy, fiber, anti-oxidants and energy.  Again you will get a 10% discount if you put in my name.

http://www.emersonecologics.com/ProductInformation.asp?BrowseBy=GRE22

These three together will give you a buzz.  Maybe not like a cup of coffee.  But you’re going to feel good after drinking this.  If you need a warm beverage as well, then follow it up with a nice cup of green tea, or better yet, bancha twig tea, available from the health food store.

 Simple Solutions:  Cold and Flu 1.  Oscillocoxinum - take a monthly dose to keep your immune system strong. 2.  Influenzinum 30C - take a monthly dose to bolster your immune system from colds and flu 3.  Aconite 6C - take at the first sign of colds and flu.  For the first 24 hours only.  After that, you need to take the remedy indicated for your particular symptoms. 4.  Yin Chiao - herbal remedy for the first 48 hours of cold and flu.  After that, you need to take the specific herbs indicated for your particular set of symptoms. 5.  Jade Screen - preventive herbal formula for colds and flu and used to treat as well. 6.  Echinacea and Golden Seal - take these herbs to prevent and to treat colds and flu. 7.  Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Beta Carotene - used to prevent and to treat colds and flu.  Discount Acupuncture Many of my patients have expressed a concern that they would like to continue with their monthly treatments, but they are now unemployed and have lost their health insurance coverage for acupuncture. I’d like to offer a special discount on acupuncture treatments for those of you who have lost their health insurance, who are in genuine need of a discount.  Please email me and we’ll work something out.   Monthly tune-up acupuncture is one of the best ways to keep the doctor away during the cold and flu season, and to keep your heart, hormones, and brain tuned-up.  Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD, QME, MUP, CCH  Doctor of Chinese MedicineCertified Classical HomeopathEncino Office:  MAILING ADDRESSTuesday and Thursday11:30 am - 7:30 pm17000 Ventura Blvd #220Encino, CA 91316Telephone: 818 905 6171West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office:   Monday & Wednesday12:30 pm -7:30 pm1444 Carmelina Blvd #132West Los Angeles, CA 90025Telephone: 310 979 6495Santa Clarita:Saturday and/or Sunday1:00 - 6:00 pmMotion Pros Physical Therapy27141 Hidaway Ave. #207Canyon Country, CA 91351Telephone:  661 312 9868Email:  drrandymartin@drrandymartin.com    On the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com

Ulcerative Colitis, IBS, IBD, Crohn’s Update  One of the most effective types of treatments I have done over the past twenty plus years has been the treatment of the range of digestive problems called inflammatory bowel disorders.  The range of diagnoses’ that are treated range from colitis, IBD, Crohn’s disease, indigestion, gas, bloating, inflammation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and fatigue. I have lectured extensively to support groups and what I always emphasis is the effectiveness of this type of treatment.  I have had patiens who were unable to leave home for longer than a few hours at a time, who, after treatment had absolutely zero limitations on their travel from home.  I have had many patients state that their lives had been totally transformed with holistic treatment.  Most of these patients have been living with these problems for many, many years, and had not realized there were safe, nature, and effective methods for treating their problems.  Although many patients respond to traditional Western treatment, some fail to respond to even thee strongest drugs.  In addition, there are always risk factors and sometimes side effects from the Western pharmaceutacal drugs, where natural treatments rarely have any side effects. There are also causal connections between smoking, nicotine, steroidal drugs, and Ulcerative Colits and IBS.  Diet has also been shown to play a large role in the causation of IBS.  In Chinese medicine, we have our own methods for determining which dietary factos are involved in exacerbating IBS.  We use the tongue and pulse diagnosis.  According to these methods, we can determine which diet would be the best for that particular person.  Common foods which are commonly culprits in IBS and affiliated diseases are the following:  ice cream, iced drinks, raw foods, fruits, and other foods which we label as “Yin” or “Damp” in Chinese medicine.  Correcting nutritional deficiencies or excesses is a major portion of the treatment goal as well.  By analyzing blood and/or hair analysis studies, we can see where the precipitating factors arise in treating IBS, Crohn’s and colitis.  Supplements which are often needed, and are deficient, include Vitamin A and Beta Carotene, DHEA, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Folic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and the essential fatty acids, including omega-3, 6 and 9.  Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria and Clostridia are also very helpful, and also quite deficient in people who suffer from IBS problems.  Also, we use Glutamine, Phosphatidylcholine and anti-inflammatory supplements such as Quercetin and Rutin. In summary, the combined use of both Western and natural methods of treating IBS is quite effective.  Some people respond better to one then to the other types of treatments, but everyone will do well with some combination of both.    Yours, In Health, Naturally, Dr. Randy Martin, OMD, PhD, LAc  =====================================================Dr Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD, QME, MUP, CCHDoctor of Chinese MedicineCertified Classical Homeopath Encino Office:  MAILING ADDRESSTuesday and Thursday11:30 am - 7:30 pm17000 Ventura Blvd #220Encino, CA 91316Telephone: 818 905 6171 West Los Angeles/Santa Monica Office:   Monday & Wednesday12:30 pm -7:30 pm1444 Carmelina Blvd #132West Los Angeles, CA 90025Telephone: 310 979 6495 Santa Clarita:Saturday1:00 - 6:00 pmMotion Pros Physical Therapy27141 Hidaway Ave. #207Canyon Country, CA 91351Telephone:  661 312 9868 Email:  drrandymartin@drrandymartin.comOn the Web:  www.drrandymartin.com 

Three (3) Things to Report from Dr. Randy Martin:

3.  Tax Alert! - - - Acupuncture is NOW a legitimate and Legal TAX Deduction

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1.  Personal Story:

Last weekend, I was lecturing at the Conscious Life Expo at the LAX Hilton on ADD / ADHD,  and also on Addictions using alternative methods of treatment.  I went into the bathroom before my talk and was washing my hands.  As I was washing, the janitor walked in to clean up the bathroom.  He smiled at me and seemed like a nice guy.  We struck up a conversation that went like this:

I said to him:  “It’s crazy how everything is governed by computors now!  You can’t even wash your hands without an automatic water and soap dispenser and an automatic  towel dispenser.  I wonder what happens if the computor system goes down.” 

I mentioned this because for the past 4 days, the Verizon voice mail system was down Statewide, and it obviously really affected my business, which relies on voice mail, and everyone else who depends on their Voice Mail for their life and communications, both personal and business.

The janitor had a very interesting comment.  He said:  “That is exactly why I”m a janitor!  Because I use my body, instead of depending on the conveniences of life!”  Then he proceeded to show me the muscle energy he put into cleaning the mirrors and how it was similar to a good workout.  And he had a great physique, so it obviously was working for him.

He went on to share his entire philosophy on life with me.  He told me that people nowadays don’t use their bodies so they age very fast and that after age 30, the body begins to wear down if you don’t take care of it properly.  Of course I was shaking my head in agreement.  He had absoutely NO idea of what I did for a living.  Nor did he know how much I agreed with everything he was saying.

He proceeded to share how important it was to keep the body in good physical shape and to exercise every day. He said that because of computors and cars and TV’s, that now no one ever uses their body for anything and it will easily get lazy and stop working right. 

He said that it’s really important to change your daily routine so that using your body is a vital and necessary part of your day.  In other words, exercise is great, but he emphasized the need to create a life where you had NO choice but to be using your body, out of necessity, and not out of choice.  He said that this is the only way you will really use your body.   Because we are essentially lazy!   He said that this is one of the reasons he really enjoyed being a janitor, because it forced him to daily stay physically fit, out of necessity and NOT out of choice.

He went on to say that the mind doesn’t know how old you are.  In other words, the thoughts in the mind do not reflect your true age.  That we go through life and were it not for his kids, for example, his mind would think he was still 17 years old.  That it’s only an aging body that makes one know you are actually aging.

He said that this is another reason to stay in good shape physicially, because if your body is in good shape, the mind will think you are young, and cooperate at keeping you younger longer.

I so vibrated with his little talk to me, that I left the bathroom on a high ready to give a great lecture.   When I got about 15 feet out into the hall, I realized I really liked this guy!   That everything he said is what I already know and believe.  So I walked back into the bathroom, introduced myself, gave him my business card, and said I’d love it if he and his family would come in to see me for some complementary acupuncture treatments some time.

He gave me a big hug and I asked his name.  He showed me his Hilton name tag.  Bodhi, the tag said.  “My name is Bodhi!”  Then he gave me another hug and said to keep the energy up!.  And that is what I did, throughout my two lectures, walking around the Expo, and on my way home in the car on the LA freeways. 

Then, when I got home, I looked up Bodhi in Wikipedia online.   It means the awakened one, or the “one who knows.”   Maybe the janitor was God.   Or is God actually everywhere and in each of us, just waiting for our awareness to come forward enough and to attention enough to recognize him/her/it?

I don’t know about you, but I have found this time and time again, that I create so much of my outer reality, based on what I need to see out there —– and that is already hidden inside me.  

Was Bodhi actually me?   Was he real?   Was he was my mirror image, for those 5 or so minutes.  I would have loved following him around all day to learn more about myself, and him.   I hope to see him again.   I hope to receive his hug again, and his energy, and love for life!   Or is he with me now, already?

What is the lesson you are needing to see and hear from the universe right now?  Maybe if you look around, or in the mirror,  the message is right in front of your eyes.   I know that for me, from time to time, I find it, in those special “Bodhi” moments, or in that state just before drifting off to sleep or just waking up, trying to remember where I am.   Even on a TV show, occassionally I will hear something I really needed to hear.  Or in a song……

Where has your momentum come from lately?   From a walk on the beach, a walk in the rain, a lecture, during an acupuncture treamtment?  Is God with you now?  In your breath, in your step, in your pain, in your tears, in your fantasy, or even in Temple or Church?  Bless that fleeting moment and blessing — that he/she/it is with you, even for the fleeting moment, until next time, is the gift…. the blessing continues… and continues … and with it, the hope and inspiration, to go on……. to the next moment of blessed clarity = inspiration….

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2.  Listen to a 5 minute radio tape of Oprah’s friend Dr. Mehmet Oz, interviewing famed homeopath, Dana Ullman, MPH.   Great 5 minute summary of how homeopathy works and how it was discovered.

http://www.oprah.com/xm/moz/200801/moz_20080131.jhtml

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3.  If you itemize deductions for your taxes, Acupuncture is now a legal and legitimate deduction, right along with your other medical expenses like chiropractic, dental or other medical expenses.

Enjoy!

According to Chinese Medicine, diseases are always an indication of an imbalance on a deeper level.  Colitis and Crohn’s both  relate to other body functions and processes.  It is when we have an understanding of the interconnectedness of all these body processes, that we have a better idea of how to treat ulcerative colitis and crohn’s from the holistic perspective.This article is too short to go into specific diagnostic techniques, but I can share with you some of the general aspects of diagnosis from a holistic perspective.  First I use Chinese tongue and pulse diagnosis.  After this I perform a hair analysis, blood tests and diagnose according to “body type”.  I also take a complete history, consisting of about eight pages of information, from infancy to the present, including your family.   From all this information, I diagnose and treat your unique imbalances.To treat the imbalances, I use acupuncture, Chinese herbs, constitutional homeopathic medicine, diet, and nutritional supplements.   Some of the specific supplements and foods that have been shown to be effective for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s are listed below.  Note that you should check with your doctor before trying anything new on your own.Please be sure to never take yourself off any prescribed medications without your doctor’s supervision.  The quantities for supplements and herbs vary with each individual.  Not all supplements work for everyone.  This holistic program should be individually prescribed by your doctor to meet your particular needs.Sample Therapeutic Foods:  potato broth, cooked carrots, okra, parsnips, squash, pumpkin, flax tea, papaya, rice porridge, miso soup, slippery elm gruel, cold water fish, evening primrose oil, black current seed oil, raw cabbage juice, celery juice.  Eat small, more frequent meals.Avoid the following:  wheat containing foods, corn, dairy products, peanuts, red meat, sugar containing foods, coffee, caffeine, oranges, alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods, salty foods.Supplements:  beta carotene, zinc picolinate, magnesium, folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, B, C, lactobacillus acidophilus, liquid chlorophyll, alfalfa tabs, chlorella, quercetin, digestive enzymes, permeability factors.The primary goal of treatment is to strengthen the gall bladder function, the liver, stomach, pancreas and spleen, all having to do with digestion, according to Chinese medicine.  Acupuncture and Chinese herbs work magnificently for this.