Gentle, relaxing lymphatic massage can help you fight off illness and heal from injuries.  Despite its feather-light touch, it offers powerful benefits for your immune system.

If you knew that there was a gentle, safe, and relaxing technique that could

* help you heal from illness, injury and surgery;
* promote a healthy immune system;
* reduce inflammation;
* support the health of your entire body;
* and promote healthy, radiant skin

–would you do it?

I’m guessing you would!

That procedure is lymphatic massage- (also called lymphatic facilitation or manual lymphatic drainage). It increases lymph flow eight to ten times. This removes harmful substances from your tissues, nourishes tissues, reduces inflammation, and generally increases immune function.

Developed as a manual therapy in Europe, it has been well researched and used in hospitals and clinics for decades.

It can speed recovery from

* sprains, strains, and sore muscles
* acute injuries
* congestion due to allergies
* surgery
* wounds (as long as there is no infection present)
* congested sinuses
* acne
* headaches
* swollen ankles, puffy eyes, etc.
* allergies/allergic reactions
* toxic side effects of drugs administered for surgery or other medical purposes
* scarring.

It also helps people manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia and arthritis.

Skin Health
Lymphatic work to the face is a lovely, gentle, treatment that enhances skin health, thereby improving skin appearance.  Done regularly, it can keep skin looking healthier. Facial lymphatic work can also help improve acne.

Pre- and –Post-Surgical Support
More and more doctors—especially plastic surgeons–are becoming aware of the value of manual lymphatic drainage before and after surgery to help clients heal. Many plastic surgeons routinely recommend it for their cosmetic surgery patients. (Post-surgical treatment needs a doctor’s permission.)

A Light, Relaxing Touch
People are often surprised about how light lymphatic facilitation is. It doesn’t feel anything like a “normal” massage (which provides deeper pressure into the skin and muscles of the body).

That’s because this form of bodywork works with the lymphatic system, rather than the muscles, and over half of the lymph nodes and vessels are just underneath the skin.  A deep or heavy touch would close off, rather than encourage, lymphatic flow.

The feather-light strokes and soft, pumping action stimulate lymphatic flow, with powerful results both for general wellness and for specific conditions including inflammation, traumatic injuries such as strains and sprains, headaches, sinus issues, healing from surgery, osteoarthritis, skin conditions, and swelling from unresolved injuries such as ankle sprains.

Lymphatic facilitation is also deeply relaxing. This too helps boost immune function.

How It Works: the Lymph System
The lymph system is a critical part of our immune system, playing a crucial role in the body’s ability to heal from injury, ward off disease, and purify itself.  It includes a network of thin vessels, nodes, tissues, ducts, and organs (e.g. spleen, thymus, bone marrow) throughout your entire body.

The lymphatic system has three major functions:

* It removes excess fluids from body tissues.
* It defends the body against harmful micro-organisms.
* It absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and transports them to the circulatory system.

The lymphatic system has no pumping mechanism (such as the heart has for arterial blood flow) and depends on muscle contraction through deep, abdominal breathing and exercise to move its fluid.

A sluggish lymphatic system can contribute to many health issues, including an increase in the frequency and severity of illnesses; joint pain; headaches; arthritis; fatigue; acne; slow healing of wounds; and swelling in extremities.

When the lymphatic drainage becomes impaired for some reason, lymphatic massage, with its ultra-light touch and pumping motion performed in the correct sequence and direction, can greatly increase lymphatic flow.  This helps the body remove toxins; brings white blood cells and nutrients to cells; and decreases inflammation.

Contraindications
As with all massage therapies, there are some contraindications. These include having a bacterial infection anywhere in the body, malignant tumors, thrombosis and major heart  or circulatory problems. Your therapist should screen you for these issues before giving you a lymphatic treatment.

Conclusion
Of course, you should always consult your medical doctor if you have or think you have a medical problem. But if you are basically healthy and seeking to enhance your health and healingFree Reprint Articles, lymphatic massage can be a valuable complement to your regular wellness program.

Dyshidrosis, also known as Dyshidrotic Eczema, is a chronic skin condition which is characterized by small blisters on the hands and feet. The name “Dyshidrosis” comes from the word “dyshidrotic” which means “bad sweating” which was deemed as the cause. Sometimes it is also known as Pompholyx which means “bubble” in Greek referring to the blisters on the skin. In some cases, Pompholyx refers to hand dyshidrosis. This skin condition is not contagious to others, but it can cause extreme stress and pain to the sufferers. Not to mention the unsightly nature of the condition can cause social anxiety and low self esteem.

Until today, the truly cause of Dyshidrosis is unknown. It is often associated with other skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, bacterial infection or excessive stress. However, there are several probable factors which can aggravate the condition:

- Nickel allergy may be a significant contributing factor to dyshidrosis. Tests have shown that dyshidrosis sufferers who are given a low nickel diet reported having less flare ups.

- Coming into contact with allergens may be the cause.

- Metal toxicity such as copper, mercury and nickel

- Other possible factors include aspirin ingestion, oral contraceptives, cigarette smoking, and implanted metals.

Unfortunately, since dyshidrosis is a type of eczema, the most common treatment for dyshidrosis is topical steroids which can bring about harmful long term effects such as skin thinning. Other methods include the use of Hydrogen Peroxide (35% strength) and Potassium Permanganate solution. Both of these can work to a certain extend but the side effects include significant burning and itching.

Therefore,it is recommended that to treat Dyshidrosis, it is necessary to go back to the basics, that is to strenghten the immune system and eliminating toxins from the body. You can check out the various methods to achieve a strong immune system via feeding the body the right food at EczemaFreeNaturally.com

Having the basics taken care of, here are some of the home remedies you can try to get relief for Dyshidrosis:

- Use emollients frequently to prevent cracking and itching. Avoid to use petroleum jelly as it does not absorb into the skin.

- Try soaking in sea salts or Epsom salts. Some found relief in soaking in white vinegar.

- Avoid harsh shampoos and body wash. Stick with gentle bath oil. If you are having flare ups, remember to wear gloves when washing hair or bathing.

- Avoid nickel if you are allergic to it. Nickel can present in certain types of foods, jewelry, computer keyboards, dental filling and even bra.

- Avoid stressful situations or learn stress management

- Avoid scratching. I know it is easier said than done. Try wearing unbleached cotton gloves to protect your hands.

- Plantain (Plantago major) infused in olive or other oil can be soothing.

- Wear cotton gloves while reading newspapers, books and magazines. The lead in the ink may be an irritant.

- Avoid hand sanitizing products which contains alcohol. Alcohol is drying and may aggravate the condition.

- Wash affected hands and feet with cool water and apply a moisturizer as soon as possible.

Although dyshidrosis is not life threatening, this skin condition can cause extreme pain and stress to the sufferes. While there is no definite treatment for dyshidrosis, one can aid the healing of this condition by practising a healthy lifestyle
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Having a baby means lot of works to do. From changing diapers, feedings and odd sleep patterns can leave even the most organized parents exhausted and absentminded. Amid the multitude of new things parents must learn about taking care of their new baby is oral hygiene. Most dentists and pediatricians agree that parents should make dental care a priority, even during the first months of a baby’s life. By starting good oral hygiene practices early, parents will be training their children to continue these beneficial routines into their adult years.

Oral Hygiene for Babies with No Teeth
Everyone has harmful bacteria in their mouths, even babies. Parents can help reduce some of these bacteria by gently swabbing the baby’s gums with a wet cloth after feedings. This will not hurt the baby’s gums; rather, he will probably enjoy the sensation.

Oral Hygiene for Teething Babies
Babies begin the teething process when the teeth begin to pierce through the gum line. Once the baby teeth begin to show, parents should start gently brushing all areas of the teeth and gums with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush two times each day.

Babies and Fluoride
When babies are small there is no need to use toothpaste, water will do. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children age 2 and younger use fluoride-free toothpaste. Using fluoride toothpaste before a child has learned to adequately spit it out after brushing can lead to a condition called dental fluorosis.

What is dental fluorosis, it is a permanent condition that occurs when a child is exposed to an overabundance of fluoride during the tooth enamel forming years. The result is either baby teeth or adult teeth that have mild to severe tooth discoloration, such as lines or spots, or irregularities on the surface of the teeth, such as pits.

Babies and Dentist Visits
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children be scheduled for a first dentist visit by the time they turn 1 year of age or when the first tooth comes in. Some dentists begin actual dental exams and cleanings on children when they turn 3 years of age.

Prior to and in-between dental visits, pediatricians check the teeth and gums of their young patients during well-visits. If there are visible problems or if the doctor or parents have concerns about the state of the child’s dental health, it may be recommended that the parents schedule a more in-depth examination by a pediatric dentist or family dentist. Such situations might include:

* Injury to the teeth
* Tooth discoloration
* Tooth sensitivity
* Atypical growths in the mouth

Effect of Baby Bottles and Pacifiers on Teeth
Babies should never be given bottles of milk or juice as a way to fall asleep or as a “security” item that is used throughout the day. Allowing babies and children to continually have these types of liquids on the teeth for prolonged periods can easily lead to tooth decay. Baby bottles should be discouraged around the child’s first birthday.

Pacifiers, when continually used after age 3, can create a bad bite or misaligned teeth. It is advisable to stop the pacifier and thumb sucking habit as soon as possible to alleviate these potential problems.

Gums are an anchor of our teeth. Just as roots hold trees firmly to the ground, it is our gums which fix the teeth to the jaw. Keeping gums healthy is very important and this governs the overall oral health. In fact, it is as important to look after gums as it is to look after teeth. Surveys reveal that more people are falling easy prey to gum diseases. The matter of concern is that gum diseases are no longer restricted only to the aged. Even young people and generally teenagers develop this condition.

Early detection of symptoms helps in quick recovery of the problem. The symptoms of these diseases are sometimes very evident, but not always. This is where medical intervention may be needed.

The onset of gum disease:

The condition actually begins with the deposition of plaque (a slimy substance) around the teeth. This is a transparent layer and hence sometimes goes un-noticed. Plaque is the media where the harmful bacteria thrive and form colonies. These bacteria produce acids which not only damage the tooth enamel but also affect the gums.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis:

Gingivitis is a condition of the gums which is not so easy to detect and only an expert can make a proper judgment. The symptoms of gingivitis are sometimes very mild, though in the long run it can prove harmful. Spongy gums, bleeding gums or even mild swelling of gums can be the beginning of this condition. The condition is worsened with plaque deposits that continuously damage the gums.

Periodontitis is a more serious condition as compared to gingivitis. It not only affects the gums but also the jaw bones. The condition needs quick medical attention and if not treated early can pose more serious problems. Periodontitis causes the gums to bleed and in extreme cases the gums lose the hold on teeth completely. The result is an irreversible loss of teeth. The other symptoms include difficulty in biting and chewing food. This symptom cannot be traced until an expert or a oral surgeon gives an opinion. Special techniques are used by experts to find out if the bite has the proper force or not.

Another problem which is common in most of the gum infections is the exposed roots of teeth. These roots are normally protected under the gum layer. However when the gums are affected, they tend to shrinkFree Articles, exposing these roots. This leads to increased sensitivity to extreme temperatures and difficulty in eating as well.

Your body was designed to keep you well— that is why you have a system that works exclusively to keep you well. Seeking to enhance this particular system to avoid colds and flu is very natural since you are working with your body’s desire to keep you well and protected. The following descriptions are eight natural tips to help your immune system keep you healthy and well.

Exercise- When you exercise you’re helping to circulate the lymph fluid in your body. Lymph is the liquid component of the immune system that nourishes your cells and carries away fungi and bacteria. Unlike blood, lymph is not circulated except by exercise. Move to give your immune system a boost.

Clean Air- Many viruses and harmful bacteria are in the air. Eliminate them before they get to you. Here is a simple and inexpensive air purifier. Place raw, unpeeled onions in every room of your house to absorb these germs. Although no scientific studies back this theory, those who have tried it report staying well through the cold and flu season. Do not eat the onions! They— not you— are infected.

Eat Right- When thinking how to boost your immune functioning, you know that what you eat is very important. Add a variety of fruits and vegetables to your diet. Eat them raw whenever possible to get the most immune-boosting nutrients. Eat quality protein. Protein is very important in building the cells of your body, including your immune system. Use “whole grain” products as another source of important nutrients.

Eliminate Sugar- It will do you no good to get tons of fresh, colorful, raw vegetables if you still indulge in the dangerous health hazard of sugar. Sugar makes your immune functioning go from full speed, destroying bad fungus and bacteria, to very sluggish. Sugar in your body is almost as bad as sugar in the gas tank of your car. Think about that before you eat your next cupcake.

Vitamins- All vitamins work together, but in different ways, to enhance your body’s immune functions. Choose raw or living vitamins; your body can use these types of vitamins to keep you healthy.

Reward Yourself- Taking care of yourself is an important component in knowing how to boost your immune system. When you’re continually stressed, your immune system is weakened. Do an enjoyable stress-release activity at once a week. Doing something enjoyable for yourself will help strengthen your immunity against disease.

Sleep- Ever wonder why you need sleep? Blame your immune system— it needs rest too! When you deprive yourself of sleep, your immune system goes into overdrive, stressing itself. Sleep deprivation weakens your immunity functions. As often as you can, get your eight-plus hours of sleep each day to help stay well.

Naturopath Doctor- If you still need more help to strengthen your immune system naturally, seek the advice of a ‘natural doctor.’ They can give you natural supplements that will further enhance your immune system. If you feel you really need a flu shot, ask your wellness practitioner about the “natural flu shot.”

Consistently practicing these tips will have you feeling better, looking great and doing more. You may soon have to find another use for your sick days!