Filed under: Hakimah's Corner, Magazine/ Culture, March Volume 2009 | Tags: Health, Heart
Hk. Razia A. Mumin
Islamic Post Staff Writer
National Heart Month just passed and we thought we would give a few updates and reminders about the heart. Heart disease is the number one killer in America. The biggest factors that cause or contribute to heart disease are: high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, sedentary life style, stress, eating too much, and many prescription and over the counter medicines. Scientists now believe that natural therapies are better at healing the heart rather than allopathic medicines. Diet, exercise and stress reduction are very helpful in preventing heart attack and heart disease. Heart disease doesn’t happen suddenly; it begins early in life. Over time, cholesterol is deposited on the walls of the heart’s blood vessels. The longer the cholesterol stays on the walls, the harder it becomes to get rid of it. Your body will naturally try to clear the passageways. However, if your diet and life style (which is high in cholesterol) do not change, the problem remains the same. Heart attacks are caused when the walls of your blood vessels are hardened due to excess cholesterol. Clots then form in the narrow openings of blood vessels, which block the blood flow entirely. Cholesterol isn’t necessarily the enemy. The body uses cholesterol for good. However, the increase of cholesterol-containing foods oversaturates our systems and causes harm. Our diet is very important in protecting our heart.
The heart is a very important part of our physical well being and also our spiritual health. It responds to both positive and negative stimuli. Our hearts respond to what we see and hear. The heart can also be described in terms as being dead or alive. Remember Allah says: “And do not obey anyone whose heart We have made forgetful in remembering Us.” (Holy Qur’an 18:28) Religious duties are very important in maintaining a healthy heart. Whoever is really concerned about the health and life of their hearts must also rid it of poisons both spiritually and physically. In order to be healthy you must think healthy thoughts and practice healthy habits.
Eating less is a very good start at fighting heart disease. Garlic is one of the best heart stimulants, and is also one of the best blood thinners and cholesterol fighters around. It decreases the level of fat in the blood. It is better to eat it raw. The less processing of it the stronger and better it is. It also lowers your blood pressure and calms your nerves to help with stress overload.
Other healthy heart herbs include: Hawthorn Berries (open the blood vessels), Gingko Biloba (increases oxygen to the heart and brain), Butchers Broom (contains two saponins which are similar to corticosteroids), and Witch Hazel (tones and strengthens veins). Herbs and foods that reduce inflammation and help repair membranes inside of the heart include: garlic, onions, red grapes, blackberries, blue berries, and raspberries. Tonic herbs that will boost your immune system are: pomegranate, asparagus roots, burdock, cayenne, and hawthorn. Blood nourishing herbs that will strengthen the heart are hawthorn and borage.
But the benefits of taking these will be defeated by eating processed foods every day. Foods containing preservatives and other chemicals wear down all systems in the body. Your body tries to help you; but most people don’t try to help their bodies and habitually eat bad foods knowingly. Another bad habit is to re-use cooking oils. Some people save the fish grease for frying more fish. They save the chicken grease to fry everything. This is an unhealthy habit. Once a food is fried, a by-product called free radicals is formed. Free radicals damage cells. They also add fat to your blood stream, and damage the linings of blood vessel walls by adding plaque to them. This type of cooking was done during the great depression in the 1930’s. These types of survival skills we don’t need. Limit your fried foods from the start. Eat foods which are steamed, baked, or curried. Canola oil is not good for you! You can research this for yourself. The better oils to use are cow’s ghee, olive oil, butter, and coconut oil.
We must strive for the best of health so we can practice the best of worship. Eating small amounts of food helps the body to digest small amounts at a time. Al-Miqdam ibn Ma’d Yakrib said: “I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: ‘The son of Adam fills no vessel more displeasing to Allah than his stomach. A few morsels should be enough for him to preserve strength. If he must fill it, then he should allow a third for his food, a third for his drink, and a third empty for easy breathing.” Excessive eating induces many kinds of harms.
Good health and good worship go hand in hand. Your heart is a vessel that should be filled to the brim with the love of Allah Almighty and we sometimes forget that our hearts and our lives belong to Allah.
*A hakimah (m. hakim) is a natural health practitioner who has received certification in traditional Islamic medicine. Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended as medical advice; consult your health practitioner.
Filed under: February Volume I- 2009, Hakimah's Corner, Magazine/ Culture
Hakima’s Corner
By Umm Hazrat Maryam
Islamic Post Staff Writer
The cost of living has really become difficult for many people. Cars, food, children, bills, and there is always something unexpected that must be dealt with. Medical costs are possibly the most expensive of all. Advertisers are informing the public in commercials that drugs have horrible side effects. Most people just don’t care. They often fall into the trap of doing things fast and expensive, or cheap and toxic, because it is convenient. You have been brain-washed for years. It is easier NOT to do the right thing. If convenience is a problem, make the herbal remedies in advance. Honey based cough syrups can be made in the summer or fall, using the fresh fruits, berries and leaves.
A simple infusion for an effective cough syrup follows:
Take one pint of strong herbal tea from cherry bark or mullein, or the herb of your choice. Add four ounces of honey.
Pour the cooled tea over the honey and store.
To this you can add limes, lemons, onions, garlic or cloves –not all together but in any combination you like.
Every illness needs attention and as the wise saying goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” People usually wait too long to start combating illnesses. Colds are very common and most people have one at least once a year.
A cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract and, there are at least 200 micro-organisms, called rhinoviruses, which can cause a cold to develop. Colds affect children more often than adults because their immune systems are still developing. The children infect each other through play or sleeping closely to one another. However when you have frequent colds, it is sometimes an indication that your immune system is overtaxed or impaired.
When our immune systems are not functioning properly we can get infection from a greater number of sources.
Factors that wear down the immune system are:
Stress
Poor diet: processed food, preservatives
Lack of sleep: less than three hours daily
Food allergies, food additives
Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet
Environmental toxins
Excess protein: too much meat in the diet
Not drinking water: minimum of three 8 ounce glasses daily
Eating foods that are out of season
Overly acidic diet
Poor elimination
Medication
Soap. laundry detergent, cleaning products
Over-use of antibiotics are major contributors to our weakened and suppressed immune systems. When penicillin was introduced in the 1940’s, it was able to cure almost every kind of infection. Now, antibiotic resistance should cause everyone to worry. Americans are now dying from infections that can no longer be cured with antibiotics. The United States ranks number one in killing large numbers of unsuspecting patients with prescription medicine. Statistics show that over 900,000 people have been killed by antibiotics. Another sad fact is that antibiotics only cure bacteria not viruses; however they are prescribed for all of our illnesses. They are found in city water (because most city water is recycled), soda fountain drinks, local company soft drinks, poultry, farm raised fish and beef. Antibiotics impair the body from absorbing nutrients. They leave the body full of toxins and kill off bad bacteria along with the good. Toxins in the blood can cause various allergic reactions, such as hives, ear aches/infections, body aches, and sneezing, itching, and runny noses. Chronic ear infections are no accident. Thousands of children are having more and more ear infections. Drinking more fluids is very important. Occasionally, fevers accompany colds and dehydration becomes a problem. Water is a must and the best fluid to drink when you have a cold. Water is continually leaving the body, by one of the organs of elimination –lungs, skin, or kidney. The average person eliminates, about five pints of water in 24 hours, so drinking is a must. Sponging patients’ bodies sometimes helps to break a fever. If you are near death’s door, losing blood rapidly, or have lost a limb, go to a doctor immediately. If not, look in your kitchen cabinet, and save a dollar!
Here are a few remedies for under a dollar that can be used for colds/flu/sinus problems and bronchitis:
Red hot peppers/ cayenne pepper:
Cayenne is good for coughs and colds. Cayenne can be used in many different ways. One 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to 5 teaspoons of honey, add warm water, this can be mixed together and given to the patient.
Garlic:
Scientists have developed a synthetic version of garlic which is called Guaifenesin. It has the same chemical properties and is used as an expectorant. Guaifenesin is found in about 75% of all, over the counter and prescription drugs. It is in cold tablets, cough syrups, Vicks Formula 44D, Sudafed, and Robitussin. If it is eaten all winter you would probably never get a cold. It contains allicin which gives it its garlic taste. Druggists have made a chemical copy of the all natural garlic bulb called s-carboxymethylcystein; its shelf name is (Mucodyne); it is a classic European lung medication that is used to regulate mucus flow. Garlic fights infection topically or internally. Garlic is an age old remedy for colds. Muslims, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Hebrews all have historical information and documentation on the wonders of this food. Garlic is so strong and effective that when you can smash it, and then rub the soles of your feet, in the center with it, in a circular fashion, you’ll taste it in your mouth. This is how fast it works. When children/babies have fevers and congestion, you can use it in this manner. Adults can chew 2 or 3 cloves in the morning (if possible). It lowers the cholesterol, blood pressure, cleans the blood and cures a cold. Add a whole bulb to a pot of yaknee or chicken soup.
Fenugreek:
This herb is excellent for fevers, and colds. The seeds are the parts to use. It is also good for asthma and sinus congestion and can be used for lung and chest colds. It is a stimulant rich in phosphorous, iron and sulfur. Fenugreek produces red corpuscles in the blood and gives energy. It cures all debilitating diseases. This is a good tonic for men. A cup of the tea 3 times daily is helpful.
Mullein:
This is a very soothing expectorant, healing in lung infections; it inhibits viruses. It is useful for asthma, bronchitis, hay fever, swollen glands, ear infections and lung congestion. Make a tea of the leaves or flowers. Mullein oil, poured directly into the ear, is also good for ear infections. Have a warm compress available to cover the ear and let the patient rest. It is free for the picking, all over the United States in the summer months.
Onions:
Onion is a very well known and effective plant that lowers blood sugar and suppresses formulations of blood clots as well as purifies the blood. Onion soup is good for colds, wheezing, chronic bronchitis and asthma. Another remedy that can relieve congestion is ½ cup onion juice, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/8 of a teaspoon of freshly ground pepper. Mix these together well and drink as a cough syrup.
Mustard Seeds:
They are very effective in clearing and healing bronchial passage ways, coughs, colds and especially asthma. Rubbing the brown mustard oil on the chest and keeping the patient warm is very helpful. Make a tea by mixing the mustard seeds with equal parts black peppercorns; steep for several minutes and drink 2 or 3 times a day.
Yaknee (soup) is one of the best remedies for colds. Give it to your family all winter long whether they have a cold or not. It brings heat to the body and helps fight off infection.
The ingredients for yaknee are: Bones of lamb or beef, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, two garlic bulbs, cardamon, two onions, ginger, salt, cayenne, clove, peppercorns.
Put all of the ingredients into a pot, add water and boil all night or at least 5hours. Barley can be added for patients who are convalescent or need extra strength. These are all foods of the prophet’s (peace be on him) tradition. Living closely to the sunnah of our Holy Nabi (peace be on him) is the best way to stay healthy.
Filed under: December Volume 1 - 2008, Hakimah's Corner, Magazine/ Culture | Tags: Hakimah's Corner, Natural Medicine
By Hk. Fatimah A. Shakur
Islamic Post Staff Writer
“By the Fig and the Olive…” (95:1)
In Holy Qur’an, Allah, the Most High, swears by the honorable olive tree. Throughout the history of mankind the olive tree has played a special role in many aspects of society.
The ancient Egyptians, who are the descendants of the people to whom the Holy Messenger Idris was sent, considered the leaf a symbol of heavenly power and used olive oil to anoint their dead pharaohs in preparation for mummification. Idris is known as Enoch in the English language.
The Old Testament also spoke to the longevity of this leaf when, in Genesis, the olive leaf was brought by the dove back to the Ark of the Holy Messenger Nuh, who in English is Noah (peace be upon him). This leaf is indicated in the Old Testament as a sign that the flood had ended.
In the New Testament, the Book of Revelations refers to the “tree of life” whose leaves provided “a healing for all nations.” The tree referred to is held by many to be the olive tree.
Olive leaves, the fruit and its oil, the roots, bark and even twigs have been used medicinally in the area of the Mediterranean Sea for over 2,000 years. In recent years the media has enlightened the public to the importance of the “Mediterranean Diet” that promotes health of the heart. The main feature of this diet is olive oil expressed from olive leaves.
Multiple Applications:
Olive leaf is extremely effective in treating infections and eliminating symptoms associated with chronic viral infections.
Chronic fatigue sufferers report great improvement and even elimination of symptoms caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Some of the effects reported were increased energy, reduction of pain and achiness, disappearance of debilitation fatigue, and an overall feeling of well-being.
Chronic upper respiratory symptoms (sinusitis, chronic bronchial cough, asthma, etc.) all respond favorably with olive leaf, doing away with or reducing the need for inhalers and decongestants.
Diabetics may benefit from olive leaf. Reports from animal studies suggest that a compound in olive leaf, oleuropeside, is responsible for lowering blood sugar levels. Caution– if you are diabetic do not attempt to treat yourself with olive leaf without consulting a healthcare practitioner.
Anecdotal evidence proves olive leaf to be of use in providing significant relief from pain due to arthritis (rheumatoid and osteoarthritis) as well as the pain and inflammation of fibromyalgia.
What a blessing from Allah, the Almighty Creator, is this miraculous herb. This powerhouse is safe, effective and affordable, providing an ally in the fight against illness and disease in a natural, healthy way.
Make olive leaf a part of your daily nutritional regimen. One cannot go wrong using a remedy provided by the tree that Allah swears by, Great and Glorious is He.
-Olive Leaf is available through Hikma Herbals. For more information contact: hikmaherbals@yahoo.com
*A hakimah (m. hakim) is a natural health practitioner who has received certification in traditional Islamic medicine. Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not intended as medical advice; consult your health practitioner.
Filed under: Hakimah's Corner, Magazine/ Culture, Sept/Oct Volume - 2008 | Tags: Fasting, Hakimah's Corner, Ramadan
Hakimah’s Corner
Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended as medical advice; consult your health practitioner.
By Hakimah Umm Tabari, Islamic Post Staff Writer
As Ramadan draws to a close and we approach the optional and highly rewarded post-Eid fasts during the Islamic month of Shawwal, it is encouraging to examine the ways that fasting benefits one from a physical perspective. Fasting helps the body restore homeostasis. Homeostasis is the near perfect balance that is found in a healthy body. It is the normal interaction between all of the systems and organs. Disruption of this state leads to the development of illness and disease. When one fasts during the prescribed time period, the body is able to perform it’s various functions unhampered by the demands placed on it by the constant eating and drinking of snack food, devitalized fast food, sodas, and other things that do not support the heath of the human body. As this homeostasis is restored, the delicate interplay between systems is kicked up a notch and fine-tuning of body functions begins. This restorative process allows for the strengthening of the immune system– the all-important system in the body that protects one from becoming a victim to the manifold pathogens (bacteria, viruses, etc.) that are ever-present in the environment.
Fasting provides rest for the digestive and metabolic systems. The Islamic fasting requires that one meal taken in the pre-dawn hours and another after sunset. Since a lunar calendar is used, this time period changes from year to year so one may fast anywhere from 13 hours to 18 hours, depending on the season. Since absolutely no food or drink is taken during this time the body has the opportunity to work on breaking down and eliminating excess food, stored fat, and extra cellular debris, in essence “cleaning house.” It is important to note that in order to gain these benefits one must protect the body against the extravagance of huge sehri (pre-dawn) meals and iftari meals that are heavily laden with fats and sugars and are difficult to digest. It is necessary to maintain a balanced diet during this time to aid the body in its work. Equally important is to get as much water between iftar and sleeping and with suhur, to ward off dehydration, especially if the fasting day is long or very hot.
Fasting can be a weight management tool. While the main focus of Ramadan is to receive the most spiritual benefit possible from the fasting, prudent preparation of the meals taken can allow one to moderate their eating habits and lose weight by choosing foods that are nutrition rich and avoiding high caloric, high sugar foods that one is used to snacking on throughout the day normally. Foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, good protein sources such as chicken, fish, beans and legumes, eggs and some dairy products like yogurt and cheese are the best sources to choose from when planning meals. Good eating habits acquired during Ramadan should be maintained after the month ends.
Remember that thirty days is an excellent length of time to establish a new habit and break an old one. Studies have shown that a lower caloric intake is associated with longer life spans and many of the people studied who lived well into their 90’s and 100’s were people who were conservative in their eating habits and fasted regularly.
Fasting provides mental and emotional stability. During Ramadan one is reminded to show restraint in all things and this causes a positive effect on one’s mental health. Fasting causes one to become more introspective and more attentive to the spiritual aspects of life. Avoiding unhealthy practices such as smoking, drinking and overeating helps one feel healthier and happier, creating a more stable mental outlook. Poor eating habits can lead to health problems i.e., low blood sugar, headaches, insomnia, etc., that in turn lead to behavior and or attitude problems. Many fasting people report that they have more energy (especially after the first week) and feel more content and tranquil. They report being able to cope better with stresses in their lives. This feeling of tranquility leads to health benefits such as lowered blood pressure, better sleeping habits, reduction in anxiety and depression and better control of behavior. Of course much of this is due to the increased ibadah (worship) that is performed, for that in itself is a healing.
Filed under: Hakimah's Corner, Magazine/ Culture, Sept/Oct Volume - 2008 | Tags: cancer, Hakimah's Corner, Medicine
Hakimah’s Corner
Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended as medical advice; consult your health practitioner.
By Hakimah Razia A. Mumin, Islamic Post Staff Writer
Allah knows best why a person gets cancer. Believers have a better understanding of the pre-ordained life span on this earth, and the tests and trials we must endure (and pass) as well. All of this may in turn assist with the healing process, or the transition to the Hereafter.
Cancer is not one disease but many diseases brought about by abnormal cell growth. With almost all illnesses, if you act quickly to remove the problem, you will have more success in eliminating and destroying the source (God willing). In the case of cancer, the source of the problem are the invading parasites and bacteria.
The most commonly found parasite in cancer patients is called (Fasciolopsis buskii) the human intestinal fluke or flatworm. These parasites live quietly inside of our bodies mass-producing, passing their excrement and eggs out along with our waste. When their eggs and waste leave the body on a regular basis (as ours should), the parasitic infestation stays at a low tolerable level. However, when they don’t leave, due to a continued poor diet, constipation, excess sugar, stagnation, stress, low water intake to (flush them out), what ever the many possible reasons; millions of parasites continue to mass produce inside of us, completing their full cycle of life, this becomes the proper environment for cancer cells to grow. If they go through their development in your breast it becomes breast cancer. If they go through their development in your prostate it becomes prostate cancer.
Cancer is an illness that usually occurs when people consume large amounts of devitalized foods on a regular basis. Some people call them ‘comfort foods’. Other factors in this equation are chemical toxins; radiation, environmental pollution, stress, and poor nutrition which break down the immune system and cause our bodies to become ‘auto intoxicated’. We poison ourselves with poor food choices. Processed foods which have been robbed of their natural minerals and vitamins are the culprits here, and as a consequence, do much harm to us. Their low costs have a lot to do with the fact that we eat them so frequently, and in such abundance.
In order to decrease the occurrence of cancerous cell growth, we must stop destroying our health, by eliminating artificial foods from our diet. On an average, we excrete about a pound of artificial substances monthly; dyes, preservatives, and unnatural fillers. We should eat more organic foods; green vegetables, fruits, wholesome grains, and foods that are in season. Grow them in your garden. You can par boil them and freeze them for winter use.
Every minute of the day and night, our bodies are fighting, a never ending battle, to detoxify and eliminate noxious substances that invade our bodies. Good health is a blessing, worth its riches in gold. We seem to concentrate on good health after we, or someone very close to us, becomes sick. We can help our bodies’ task of keeping us healthier, by cutting back on denatured foods. Our digestive, immune, and respiratory systems must be in, top notch, shape at all times to help in the battle to stay well. It is important to have a good balance oxygen, water, salt, potassium, fats (oils), and lack of exercise, otherwise, there can be serious illnesses.
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Here are the reasons why:
Oxygen: It is outside and inside of our blood which flows throughout the body. If our levels are low we become tired, we lack mental clarity, and memory loss, and the blood can’t carry the toxins out of the body promptly. A raised oxygen level saturates the blood by keeping our blood acidity levels down. Without oxygen our blood becomes thick and it makes for a very unhappy life that is certain to involve illness. Air pollution, and lack of deep breathing, cuts our oxygen supply dramatically; and we suffer physically as a result.
Water: As with oxygen, our blood becomes thick without it, then we can’t push the toxins out of our systems and our blood becomes acidic (another cause of arthritis). This condition may cause the cartilage in the bones to dissolve. Water puts much needed oxygen into the blood stream and helps us with digestion. Nothing kills life quicker than the lack of water. Those with the worst health conditions drink less water than healthier people. Asthma is a condition resulting from lack of water. Water can be harmful if it passes through corrosive pipes. City dwellers need to investigate water filters for their faucets. Check your city’s water source. You could be drinking purified sewer water!
Salt: Sodium is an indispensable mineral which helps maintain proper water balance, assists in muscle contraction, aids in proper functioning of nervous system, and maintains the correct balance of acid in our blood and urine. One teaspoon of salt has about 2000 mg of sodium. The average recommended daily allowance is about 8 grams. Iodized salt is a poison, as is white sugar. Kelp or dolce ( which are two different forms of sea weed) is healthier and also a good sea salt. One of the best salts to ingest is Celtic Sea Salt, which is grey in color and full of vitamins and minerals. In early European history, people were deprived of salt as a form of torture; they literally went mad. Visit the web site realsalt.com .
Potassium: It helps release energy from cells, and is important in maintaining a normal heart beat. This element, helps regulate acid-base balance, manufactures glycogen and protein; and is found in the following foods; prunes, tomatoes, sunflower seeds, mangoes, wheat germ, peanuts, broccoli, carrots and bananas.
Fats/oils: . Fat is an essential part of every cell in the body. Stored fats act as a concentrated form of energy, which can replace carbohydrates. Since vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble; fat is necessary for their proper utilization in the body. Good fats are ghee, coconut oil, organic butter, olive oil and 100% natural oils. Man made oils such as Canola, vegetable (genetically engineered soy bean oil), corn, and cotton seed oil are harmful and should be avoided at all costs. They cause free radical, which cause cancer, [free radical is closely associated with oxidative damage more familiar by analogy with the process of rust formation of iron exposed to oxygen]. These oils don’t fare well with high heat during frying. Their compositions are changed into chemicals which are carcinogenic.
Exercise: The best form of exercise is walking. Moving the body on a regular basis is the best medicine for keeping circulation flowing and health at it’s maximum. There is NO way around exercise, you must do it to become, and maintain good health!
There have been many tried and true remedies for cancer, however, altering the way you think is the first step in conquering this illness God willing. Your emotional health and stress level can definitely contribute to the healing process.
In many people illnesses are created by way of negative emotions and bad habits looming from the past. Pain, be it physical or emotional, is a difficult test to conquer. When you are free from physical and emotional pain, you can then become more receptive to healing. You must forgive and let things go (as taught in Islam). Healing is a spiritual, physical and emotional process, which takes strength, and endurance.
When treating cancer the first line of attack is to clean the blood stream and the colon. Skin brushing helps eliminate trapped toxins from the skin and helps with circulation. Deep breathing exercises help the lungs get ride of toxins. Drinking the juice of an organic lemon and water every morning helps the liver and the kidneys with the tasks of processing and removing toxins. Organic or home-made vinegar is also a good start for the day. You should do combinations or all of the following things to combat cancer.
Drink six to eight glasses of herbal teas/water daily. Vegetable juices are very helpful. Try: celery, carrot, beets, parsley, cucumber, and ginger. Fruit juices are also beneficial, however, be aware of food combinations. It is very important, at this time, to never combine fruits and vegetables in one sitting, unless authorized by a Hakeem/Hakeemah.
Get plenty of exercise, fresh air and sunshine. Never cook in aluminum utensils.
Sweat baths and a rubbing with mineral salts are a good stimulant for the body.
Eliminate meat from your diet for a good, long while because it is hard to digest and full of chemicals. Eat lots of pumpkin seeds; parasites don’t like their taste.
Enemas are a very fast way of removing toxins and will also bring down fevers.
Remember, it has been shown that this illness is brought about by a parasitic infestation and when you cut off their food supply by changing your diet, you can flush them out.
There are many accelerators that cause cancer, here are a few:
Microwave ovens ~ Studies are finding all kinds of carcinogens in microwave plastic, which also seeps into your food.
Hair Dyes ~ Chemicals such as diaminoanisole and FD& C Red 33 are found in most hair dyes. Both chemicals are carcinogenic and linked to Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and Multiple Myeloma.
Talc ~ Which is a mineral found in mines, when processed to become a minute fiber, is very similar to asbestos. If not removed, inhalation of this powder is sometimes cancer causing. Talc is found in medicated powders, baby powder and perfumed powders. An alternative is to make your own. Add essential oils to rice flour which works just as well and isn’t harmful.
Cosmetics ~The human skin is extremely permeable; what ever you apply to it soaks into your blood stream. A warning is “if you can’t eat it don’t use it.” An experiment proving this point, is to weigh yourself and then sit in a bathtub full of water for 1hr (if you can). You will find that you are heavier!
Radon ~ a common gas emitted from, say, a furnace. Have your home checked for it.
Ex-Rays ~Avoid at all costs
Mycotoxins (from mold) ~These are toxins produced by fungus. Cheaply produced foods are more likely be contaminated. Moldy cheese, fruits, nuts, bread, cereals, corn, wheat, and vegetables can all develop Mycotoxins. The consumers can do nothing to control Mycotoxins except to stay away from cheap foods and anything with mold on it.
Asbestos ~Nearly every American will or has been exposed to some sort of asbestos in their lives. Over 5000 products still contain asbestos. It is linked to lung, kidney, abdominal, and gastrointestinal cancer.
Cell Phones ~Read the fine print!
Sanitary napkins ~Make your own!
Herbs that can be used for cancer are as follows:
African cayenne, blood root, burdock root, violet leaves, yellow dock, blue flag, red clover, dandelion root, golden seal, chaparral, garlic, pau D’ arco, parsley, echinacea, guggul gum, green tea, tumeric, garlic, milk thistle seed, cordyceps mushroom, maitake mushroom, astragalus root, poria mushroom, and rhubarb root. The list truly goes on. Each country has thousands of successful remedies for this disease. The most important thing to do is to strengthen your immune system.
Use these herbs combinations that are good for you. You can put them in [vegetable] capsules or drink them as tea.
Multi vitamins can be taken daily with excellent results. Of benefit are extra A, C, B-complex as are the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium and zinc.
This remedy was used by American Indians but has been changed throughout the years.
“ESSIAC TEA”
20 parts burdock root
4 parts slippery elm bark
1 part rhubarb root
16 parts sheep sorrel
1 part blessed thistle
1 part kelp
1 part red clover
1 part water cress
Use stainless steel pots, or glass
2 gallons of water
Add herbs in your desired amounts, such as cups or ½ cups, or tablespoons if you want a smaller batch
Example; 20 cups of burdock root, 4 cups slippery elm etc
Add herbs to a pot of water, bring to a boil, let stand in water for at least 6 hours, stir vigorously, let stand another 6 hours.
Strain, store in a cool dark place, and seal in air tight containers.
The Hoxey Formula
This is a classic American formula used by Harry Hoxey. His grandfather used it to cure farm animals with cancerous lesions. This formula is a blood purifier; it cleanses the liver, and lymphatic systems. Use equal parts of the following herbs:
Red clover blossoms
Licorice root
Buckthorn bark
Oregon grape root
Stillingia root
Burdock seed
Prickly ash bark
Wild indigo root
Phytolacca root
Potassium iodide
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We should fear none save Allah the Most High, the Knower of all our affairs. Know that there is no substitute for Allah Almighty.
The Holy Last Messenger (peace be upon him) said “What have I to do with this world? As regards this world, I am like a rider who rests under the shade of a tree, and continues his journey, then leaves it.”
The soul was created before the body. Allah is the Healer, and in this place of test and trial, each challenge is another hurdle to jump. This is why we say cancer kills some people and, others, it just sets them free!
By Razia A. Mumin, Islamic Post Staff Writer
Olive oil. (Shiok Far-Eastern Cuisine, Creative Commons License)
A recipe for hummus follows, and more healthy Islamic recipes are to be found in Touring: Egypt of My Heart.
There has been a lot of talk in the media about fat, and one of the main reasons is that too many Americans are obese. Overeating is an American tradition, especially around the holidays. Fast food chains, super sized products, and advertisements make it hard to resist. True- too much of anything is harmful, and the big problem with fat is that it clogs your arteries, which leads to heart disease. Fat is in everything; just read the labels on the back of your favorite cookies, chips, or pastry. The question is: which ones are the best or the worst?
The three main groups of fats are saturated fats, monounsaturated fat, and polyunsaturated fats.
Saturated fats are semi-solid at room temperature, and are basically found in animal products. Saturated fats are less likely to go rancid during cooking, and are what the liver uses to make cholesterol. They are found in meat, cheese, coconut oil, palm oil, and butter ghee. All saturated fats are not the same. Examples of good saturated fats are organic butter, ghee, and coconut oil. Examples of bad saturated fats are margarine, shortening (especially when it is genetically engineered like most vegetable and corn oil is), and excessive amounts of fat found in meat. Genetically engineered foods are harmful to the body. Their long term effect is not yet known. Scientists take natural food and add the genes, or the D.N.A, of a fish or another animal to supposedly improve its shelf life so that they can feed more people. In the process of “helping us,” they are killing us with their sweet poisons. There is a process they use called hydrogenation in which a fat that is naturally liquid at room temperature is chemically turned into a solid fat, or a hydrogenated fat. Hydrogenation or even partial hydrogenation distorts the fatty acids, and turns them into poison. Any food, be it potato chips, pretzels, pastries, or cakes, that is a by- product of hydrogenation, is harmful and dangerous in the long term. Another fat we hear a lot about is called trans fats. Trans fats are transformed or mutated fats. They were created in a lab like the Frankenstein monster, supposedly to help us, but really to make money. It is cheaper to make different foods, fats, sugars, and pass it out as real food to the trusting public. We need to stop and read labels if we want to be healthy. Trans fatty acids have been found to affect the way cholesterol is processed in the blood stream in a manner that increases the risk of heart disease. Now let us take a moment and review. Saturated fats clog the arteries, and raise the cholesterol. However, remember that real and organic saturated fats are natural fats that break down naturally in our bodies. When we eat them in moderation, we can avoid possible system overloads, weight gain, and heart problems.
Transfats, the new, cheap, man- made toxic chemicals, are artificial products that are used to replace natural substances.
The Institute of Medicine, a divison of the National Academy of Science, released a report in 2002 on transfats. They declared that there are no safe levels of transfats, and consumption of it should be reduced as much as possible. However, transfats are a foodmaker’s dream because they extend the shelf life of food, and make foods cheaper to produce. The Harvard School of Public Health has declared transfats dangerous to our health. Saturated fats in high levels are not healthy for our bodies, but they are still a source of energy, and can be processed by our bodies. In contrast, transfats are junk food, and should be totally avoided. There are so many unexplainable illnesses these days. Could it be all of the unhealthy additives in the processed foods we consume? Here is a list of some helpful oils and fats that can be incorporated into your diet. You make the decision what is best and better for you.
Monounsaturated fats remain liquid at room temperature, but solidify with cooler temperatures. Sources are olive and peanut oil. These fatty acids are associated with good cholesterol.
Polyunsaturated fats remain liquid at room temperature, and also remain liquid in cooler temperatures. Sources are flaxseed, safflower, sesame, sunflower, cod liver oil, and evening primrose oil. When some oils (such as cottonseed, safflower , canola, and grape seed oil) are heated, they turn into poisons. Under high heat, the composition of some oils changes into toxic substances. The by-products of poisonous oils are called “free radicals.” Free radicals attack cells and cause many illnesses. But they are not just in oils; free radicals are in other foods as well.
Every cell in your body is protected by a membrane that is composed mainly of fat. Even your brain is sixty percent fat. Having good fats in your diet is very important. Here is a list of better oils to use; add these to your diet for better health.
Ghee is resistant to bacteria and rancidity because the milk solids and water have been removed. It doesn’t change its composition or burn at high temperatures, and keeps indefinitely. It is expensive, but it is better for you. Cut back on something else, or make your own.
Flaxseed oil is good to use as a supplement, not for cooking. This oil relieves bloating, pain, and tension. It helps the body balance its estrogens levels. It is a good supplement; 1 or 2 tablespoons a day would be very beneficial. Try to find one-hundred percent certified organic flax seed, or its oil in a vegetable capsule.
Cod liver oil is also good to use as a supplement. Children should be given this at a young age. Naturalists put it in their children’s infant formulas. It also reduces blood pressure because it reduces the fat in the blood. It is very good for rheumatoid arthritis, and contains vitamins A and D, and large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (good fat) which protect against heart disease. The problem with fish oils today is the heavy metal content. Heavy metals are present throughout our environment- in seafood, plants, and animals. Arthritis is sometimes caused by large amounts of metals in our blood. Testing of the hair and nails may establish just how much metal is present in the body. For these reasons, it is important to use good quality cod liver oil.
Coconut oil is good oil for cooking. It is easily digested, and its fatty acids are sent directly to the liver, where they are converted into energy. So, when you eat coconut oil your body uses it immediately to make energy, rather than store it as body fat. Virgin coconut oil is antiviral, antibacterial, and anti fungal. It also helps to build the immune system, and is lower in calories than most other fats and oils.
Butter contains healthy components of lecithin, which aids the body in breaking down fats and cholesterol. It is also rich in vitamins A and E, and contains selenium, an antioxidant that helps fight off free radicals.
Use evening primrose oil as a supplement. It contains gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), a substance that helps to prevent numerous conditions such as PMS, eczema, which is chronic itching, red, scaly patches on the skin, diabetic polyneuropathy, the nerve damage associated with diabetes, heart disease, alcoholism, glaucoma, reduces blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, hyperactivity in children, and obesity. It is also great for menopausal symptoms, arthritic ailments, inflammatory diseases, and disorders of the immune system.
Olive oil is a monounsaturated fat, the good kind that helps, rather than hurts, your body. It protects your heart, promotes weight loss, eases rheumatoid arthritis, fights cancer, battles diabetes, and smoothes the skin. Use extra virgin olive oil!
There are many other good oils to use such as avocado, rice bran oil, peanut oil for frying, and sesame oil. Walnut oil is good if you have a fungal infection that is re-occurring. Do your own research, and find the best one for you, and your needs. Don’t be locked down into purchasing oils that are harmful because they are cheap. Most of these inexpensive oils are cancer-causing, and become loaded with free radicals when heated. The oils to avoid are vegetable oil, which is usually soybean, cottonseed oil, and canola oil, which is made from the rape seed plant, and is also used in motor oil. Canola oil clogs your arteries. There have been many canola oil related illnesses reported. There is a web site, www.canolakills.com, with the testimonies of many who have suffered from consuming this oil. Remember, moderation is the best method of avoiding illness. Please don’t fall for the trick called “low fat;” this is another gimmick used to keep you ill. Low fat products use more genetically engineered and artificial additives than any other products. You lose more than weight when you use low fat products. Natural foods, in moderation, are always the best thing for you. Try to use farm raised, or local grocers, co- ops, and organically raised produce, or grow your own. Meats, fats, and oils are not what they used to be. Know your fats, so you will not be fat for life, and live healthier.
Tasty Remedies Looking for a tasty, healthy dish that is filling and uses healthy fat as well? Here’s one of the recipes from “Touring: Egypt,” hummus. Hummus contains no saturated fat, no cholesterol or sugars and is high in protein and fiber. Unlike many foods that are good for you, hummus also tastes great. It is a perfect food for anyone who is concerned about eating well or who is on a low cholesterol diet and doesn’t want to sacrifice flavor.Hummus is traditionally used as a dip with pita bread. Americans also use it as a topping on broiled fish or chicken, on baked potatoes instead of sour cream, or as the main ingredient in a vegetarian sandwich.Ingredients1. chick peas.2. 1 bay leaf.3. 1/4 c. lemon juice.4. grated zest of 1 lemon.5. 6 roasted cloves of garlic.6. 1 fresh minced garlic clove.7. 1/2 tsp cumin.8. 1/2 tsp ground coriander.9. 1/8 tsp cayenne.10. 1/2 tsp black pepper.11. 1/2 cup minced parsely.Procedure1. Soak 1 cup chick peas overnight, then drain.2. Cook about 2.5 hours in 5 cups vegetable broth with 1 bay leaf until soft.The veg. broth seemed to add a lot of flavor so I wouldn’t just use water.3. Drain beans, reserving liquid.4. Puree beans in food processor with 1/4 cup lemon juice & 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid to achieve desired texture.5. Add grated zest of 1 lemon, 6 roasted cloves of garlic, 1 fresh minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/8 tsp cayenne, 1/2 tsp black pepper.6. Add 1/2 cup minced parsely. (Photo: Paul Goyette Photography, Creative Commons License)
Fuul garnished with olive oil (left), tahini, tomatoes, onion, parsley, this dish is like a warm bean salad, chickpeas (chana) and fava beans blended with crushed garlic, salt and lemon juice. Delicious, but not for the breath! (Hazy Jenius Photo, Creative Commons License)
