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This Issue
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DEFINING ARTHRITIS
Reprinted with permission from the book/program HEALTH REFERENCE
Arthritis is the inflammation of body joints. Symptoms may include deformity, pain, swelling and limited range of movement.
A very large portion of the American population have one of the arthritis types … osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and the related gout, lupus, Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, Reiter's syndrome, Sjorgen's syndrome and ankylosing spondylitis.
OSTEOARTHRITIS: This type of arthritis is a result of the deterioration of cartilage which covers the end of bones … typically, it develops with aging. It results in pain and swelling in three times as many women as men.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: This is a disorder of the autoimmune system … the body actually attacks the linings of the joints which is responsible for lubrication. Typically, the surfaces of bones, tissues and cartilage are destroyed and replaced by scar tissue. The damaged tissue and bones have a tendency to fuse together. The beginnings of the disease is often seen in conjunction with stress (emotional and/or physical) and the cause is unknown. There is debate as to whether or not it is an infectious disease. The joints make a crackling sound like the crinkle of cellophane. Profound changes in sufferers is noted by changing one's lifestyle … moderate exercise, vegetarian diet, gentle stretching and meditation.
THE INFECTION THEORY: Many rheumatology specialists believe that the mycoplasma germ is the cause of rheumatoid arthritis … they often prescribe antibiotics such as minocycline. It is to be noted that the jury is still out, only more evidence and time can prove this theory to be true or not.
EXERCISE: To move may be painful … however, not moving is destructive! Seek out information on proper exercises which will strengthen muscles related to the joints.
HERBAL REMEDIES: A combination ginger/cayenne tea has been helpful due to the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger and the pain relieving effects of the hot pepper (ginger should not be used during pregnancy). Also, "cat's claw" has been used.
A book by Dr. Lorenzo Abatz called "Golden Goodness: The Miraculous Power of Raisins, describes the preparation of eight golden raisins soaked in gin which will eliminate the inflammation and pain of arthritis within 24 hours in 19 out of 20 cases (Dr. Abatz' files are filled with passionate testimonials. The preparation and dosage is critical …
1. Cover eight golden raisins with one ounce of gin. Let them soak overnight … not less than eight hours and not more than ten.
2. Drain off the gin.
3. Eat one raisin every hour on the hour.
DIET: 1. Sulfur is required for the repair and rebuilding of bone, cartilage and connective tissue, i.e. garlic and onions. 2. It has been found that people with arthritis have high levels of copper, lead and iron. Eat rice, wheat and rye because they contain the amino acid "histidine" which is known to remove excess metals from the body. 3. Eat fresh pineapple frequently because it contains the enzyme bromelain which is excellent at reducing inflammation. Reject pineapple which is canned or frozen because these processes destroy enzymes. 4. Avoid eggplant, tomatoes, white potatoes since they contain "solanine" which many people who are suffering from arthritis are highly sensitive to. Solanine interferes with enzymes in the muscles. 5. Avoid salt is taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen. 6. Do not take iron supplements because it is linked to pain, swelling, and joint destruction. Get your iron by eating natural foods like broccoli, brussels sprouts, peas, fish, lima beans and cauliflower. 7. Take a free form amino acid complex to help repair tissue.
HONEYBEE VENOM: Arthritis inflammation and pain is known to respond to honeybee venom because it has a powerful antiinflammatory substance and a stimulant of the immune system. It is effective for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. It is commonly administered by hypodermic needle but a honey bee can also be placed on the inflamed site. This method is not recommended by the medical establishment because no clinical research is available. Information can be obtained from the American Apitherapy Society in Hartland Four Corners, Vermont; 802-436-2708.
ANTI-TGF-B: Injections of this protein eliminated painful joint swelling in 75% of patients in a laboratory study. The protein eliminates TGF-B which is a chemical produced by the body due to infection that causes inflammation to trigger swelling in the hands and feet.
HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE: Considered by medical authorities as the best medication for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis … found to bring remission.
DIMETHYLSUFOXIDE (DMSO): This wood byproduct is a liquid which is applied topically to reduce swelling, relieve pain and promote healing. DMSO can be purchased at health food stores. Commercial grade DMSO found at hardware stores should not be used. NOT RECOMMENDED BY THE MEDICAL ESTBLISHMENT.
APPLICATION OF HEAT: Heat can ease morning stiffness due to arthritis. It increases blood circulation to ailing joints.
ULTRASOUND TREATMENT: For persistent swelling. Ask doctor to refer you to a physical therapist.
ATHRITIS FOUNDATION: For more information call 800-283-7800