Insomnia affects around one third of the population, with many of these people resorting to hypnotic drugs like benzodiazepines to fall asleep. But the drugs are not without their side effects – they can be addictive and cause daytime sleepiness. There has been an ongoing quest to find a natural alternative to hypnotics. Many herbs … Read more
It has been calculated that the three most problematic mental illnesses worldwide, in terms of burden to daily living, are: depression anxiety addiction Whilst depression and anxiety are frequently treated by various means, addiction tends to receive less attention in clinics. Addictions occur not only to – alcohol cigarettes illicit drugs but also to the … Read more
Few would deny that the abundance of high calorie foods couples with a sedentary lifestyle is in the most part responsible for the surge in obesity in modern times. However, despite all the good advice about the importance of diet and exercise, there are anomalies in this theory. For example, there are those who scarcely … Read more
As the weather begins to warm up, many of you may be giving thought to preparing your body for summer. This may include getting outdoors more, exercising and increasing movement. It may also include detoxing your body to help with energy levels and weight regulation. Spring is an excellent time to give your liver a … Read more
The relationship between stress and illness is complex. The susceptibility to stress varies from person to person. Factors that influence the susceptibility to stress are: genetic vulnerability familial learned mechanisms coping style type of personality and social support. Studies have shown that short-term stress boosted the immune system, but chronic stress has a significant … Read more
Recent studies confirm human exposure to heavy metals have risen dramatically as a result of an exponential increase of their use in industrial, agricultural, domestic and technological applications. Mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic and aluminium are found in numerous everyday sources from our environment and may be the cause of underlying immunological, metabolic and behavioural conditions. … Read more
Mood and sleep are intrinsically linked and significantly affected by biochemical and environmental disturbances. The ‘monoamine hypothesis’ suggests that the development of mood, sleep and behavioural disorders occurs when monoamines, such as the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline, are at insufficient level. Therefore, associated symptoms and conditions can be improved by increasing these neurotransmitters. Whilst low … Read more
