05/14/2013: Mt from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: "When the blood is to thick it is very hard to collect it. You can thin the blood by drinking more water and by eating each day a clove of garlic. On earth clinic you can find a recipe for blocked blood vessels, based on lemon, garlic and honey, that will also help with the blood thinning.

Swedish bitter is helping with digestion -it improves liver and pancreas function.

For all the pain symptoms you have to consider Lyme disease.

I also recommend to read the book by Maria Treben, Health through God's Pharmacy. Look into stinging nettle, yarrow, calendula and horse tail tees."

05/15/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Mark; I commend your caring efforts to help your wife. The symptoms you've listed do pertain to B12 deficiency, and it's possible that the brand and type you are using may not be effective.

Early last year, jarrow changed its formula, and it became much less effective. Some of us contacted them because we noticed the problem together. Unfortunately, there are other brands of B12 sublinguals that seem to be less effective. ( I've had this same problem-many symptoms returned .)

Here is a link to a website devoted to treating the condition of ME/CFS: http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?find-new/6570495/threads

There are many treatments discussed on this site, including B12. Some people respond to certain brands of sublinguals, others do not. Some people have resorted to injections, because they don't feel anything from sublinguals, etc.

Another site to visit is the Pernicious Anaemia Society. Org, or b12d. Org. Many folks with PA, or B12 deficiency will also be deficient in Folate and Iron. (It would be a good idea to have folate and ferritin levels checked in case.) Not everyone with B12 deficiency will have the same, but some testing is recommended. Other B vitamins may be needed, so, a B complex is recommended. Starting with a low dose is a good idea, then see if extra individual B's are needed.

It's true that co-morbid conditions may exist with B12 deficiency, often times stomach acid is low, so digestion/absorption is weak. Many people here are helped by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, or lemon juice to aid digestion. Some people are taking hydrochloric acid supplements.

When taking measures to increase stomach acid, one may also need to strengthen the stomach lining and tissues to protect them from damage. Amino acids, such as proline, glycine, etc, are needed for this. Bone broth is a good gelatinous food to strengthen collagen, helping the gut.

When digestion is weak, minerals may also not be absorbed well. ( vegetarians may be low in zinc, but there could be other low minerals.)

It's also true that B12 deficiency can be from a lack of transport proteins, in addition to malabsorption. Transcobalamin deficiency may be the cause. It is treated with very high dosages of B12, until symptoms resolve. The B12 serum test does not indicate a good status in these people. They must rely on how they feel. The practitioner must be amenable to this type of treatment.

BTW, it may also be helpful to check for low thyroid function, it's another condition that accompanies B12 deficiency."

05/15/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I have experienced many of your wife's symptoms and the only things that work for me are the B-12 patches. At first try I had to really load up on them daily and take over the recommended amount. I would wake up in pain and numbness every morning until I got started with the patches. It took less than a week for me to see results. I still have some numbness in fingers on right hand but it is mild compared to what it was. I have tried the under the tongue pills and shots that were expensive but had no results. My doctor said my B-12 was in range and I had no problems but the only peace that I got from pain and fear that I was going blind was the B-12 patches."

05/20/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Dayton Ohio: Just wondering if there was a particular brand of patch that worked best for you, there are so many to choose from and we don't want to be starting all over again."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I get my B12 patches here- http://www.drdavidshealth.com/b-12-mega-patches/#.UZptkthhphA"

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I put the link to where I get the patches in another reply. I just wanted to add that I had to put about 4-5 patches on my body before I got relief at first. I must have been severely deficient in B12. It took about a week for me to find the amount that was right for me. I put them on my arm. They will stay on during a shower. I now use about one per week and sometimes two. Whenever I start to feel the tingling in my fingers I know it is time to apply a patch. I pray that your wife will have good results like I did. They will work, tell her not to give up."

05/21/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Ohio: Thanks for the link to the patches, I wanted to check really as my wife is already using these, she's has been on them for around 4 weeks or so but I will suggest she ups the amount she uses, thanks again for the tip."

05/21/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark,

You are welcome. Tell me, is your wife using the highest strength patch. (5000 mcg) Make sure she is. I started out using the 1000 mcg and it went nowhere. Before I gave up I tried the 5000 and it made all the difference in the world. Tell her I have felt her pain and to not give up. Has she read the book "Could it be B12" by Sally Pacholok? It might interest her. God Bless!"

05/21/2013: Om from Hope, B.c., Canada: "To Clio51 from Manchester. According to Ayurvedic books, oil pulling should be done in the early morning before drink or food with sesame oil. In twenty minutes the oil should look white when expelled. Then rinse mouth several times. The action is on all energy points on the tongue , that is why oil pulling benefits all body organs.

I have done it now for almost a year and loose teeth are firm again. Otherwise my teeth have whitened over time. Other benefits may be there as I have no other issues. Keep it up. Om"

[YEA]  08/30/2010: Dave from Battle Ground, Washington State, Usa: "I went out one morning to see thousands of small black ants outside our garage door, where the car drives in, all along the edge of the door. My first thought was to get some insecticide and spray but I don't like killing living things no matter what they are. I read a post somewhere saying 20 Mule Team Borax makes insects go away. So I sprinkled some across their path and went to the grocery store to shop. When I came back every single one of them had left, none were killed, and they went elsewhere."

08/28/2011: Patricia from Gulf, North Carolina: "Do you think the borax would work on getting rid of Fire Ants as well?"

02/19/2013: Mia from Ukiah, California: "I had such fun reading the progression of the posts. It was delightful. I love how we the people are taking back our rights & being good hearted & sensible."

04/11/2013: John from Rumson, Nj Usa: "I thought I was the only one in the world that knew "tell the Ants to leave" actually works. It really does work. And it makes you laugh because it's so simple."

04/14/2013: Sarah from Lehi, Ut: "I'm going to try asking them to leave. I like that idea, it certainly makes me smile. Wonder if it works on spiders too. :) I don't like killing anything, I figure they have a right to be here as much as we do and obviously there's a natural purpose for them."

04/15/2013: Polly from London, England: "I'm going to try this when the first little critturs come marching in when the weather warms up! At the moment I don't kill, them I use rotten lemon peels put down where they come in and it takes a little while but they certainly don't like the smell or taste of rotting lemon peels. I don't eat oranges so I haven't tried them maybe someone else could try that?"

05/21/2013: Deanna from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, Usa: "There was an ant running down the side of my bathtub yesterday. After reading here I sternly said to him "get out of here or I'm going to kill you! " He screeched to a halt and ran out of my house. I am truly stunned at his reaction."

05/21/2013: Kt from The Usa: "I remember reading to put lemon juice in the corner of windowsills to keep ants out of the house."

01/22/2013: Charlotte from Charlotte, N.c Mecklenburg: "Thanky you so much, I have been looking for something, anything to help with the hot flahes, I'm going out to day to buy the Boron, hope it work I'll check back in to let you know if it worked for me."

02/06/2013: Charlottte from Simpsonville, Sc: "Charlotte in Mecklenburg, I would love to know if you have gotten any results yet? Oh I do hope so. It has been fabulous not having these hot flashes and night sweats anymore!"

02/10/2013: Charlotte from Charlotte, Nc: "No, not yet, I'm still taking it, I'm also taking ACV, Maca, Vitamin E, Omega 3, Soy Isoflavones. Is there anything else out there that I need to try?"

02/27/2013: Charlottte from Simpsonville, Sc: "To Charlotte, in NC, If the boron hasn't helped, I would say try a progesterone cream. If you still cycle follow the directions. There is one brand that has been around a long, long time, and recommended by a fertility doc, ***-Gest. Hope this is helpful."

[WORKED TEMPORARILY]  05/20/2013: Minkypinky from New York, Ny: "Hey, I tried Boron and it worked from day 1, too. But after about two months, it has stopped working for me. I'm getting hot flashes again. I wonder if anyone else has had this experience? Where the effect wears off? I wonder why this happened. Very disappointed because I was soooo happy that the night sweats and hot flashes stopped. They're not as bad (before I was getting them every hour or two and now I only seem to get them if I exert myself or find myself in a warm situation, like too many clothes, or the A/C turns off in the subway), but they're back.

I'm reluctant to increase the dosage as I've read that high doses can actually worsen hot flashes."

05/21/2013: Ruth from Harlingen: "Maybe try lowering your dose of boron--maybe what was therapeutic before is too high now that your body doesn't have a deficiency."

05/20/2013: Pg from Gaffney: "1/4 of what? Anyone know what he adds to kill the bitterness?"

05/21/2013: Courtney from Granite Bay: "You can add the ACV to any type juice if the taste bothers you. Many put the ACV into a small glass of orange juice."

01/13/2013: Sam from Riyadh, KSA: ""arthritus is a boron deficeincy. (Pat takes this herself & still runs a goat farm alone at age of 80 - despite being diagnosed with osteo arthritus 30 years ago & told to buy wheelchair.

Can't recommend her enough - everything she says proves to be true - amazing woman - highly respected by CSIRO."

Hello everyone - With respect to the above mentioned post im greatly interested to know as how to use the boron.

Im 40yr old female recently diagnosed with grade4 knee oestoarthritis in both knees and feel the same burning in elbows lower back now. Done with pain killers and physio therapy. Dont want to go for knee replacement as the Dr. insists. Please please please any alternative medicines and home remedies besides our friends have listed are most welcome.

Sam"

05/21/2013: Catherine from Wellington, New Zealand: "Hi Sam, check out the other posts on borax (boron). There is info on the website http://educate-yourself.org/cn/boraxconspiracy03jul12.shtml. The EC insomnia remedies include borax as well. Could be that dimunition in pain levels assist sleep."

05/14/2013: Mt from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: "When the blood is to thick it is very hard to collect it. You can thin the blood by drinking more water and by eating each day a clove of garlic. On earth clinic you can find a recipe for blocked blood vessels, based on lemon, garlic and honey, that will also help with the blood thinning.

Swedish bitter is helping with digestion -it improves liver and pancreas function.

For all the pain symptoms you have to consider Lyme disease.

I also recommend to read the book by Maria Treben, Health through God's Pharmacy. Look into stinging nettle, yarrow, calendula and horse tail tees."

05/15/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Mark; I commend your caring efforts to help your wife. The symptoms you've listed do pertain to B12 deficiency, and it's possible that the brand and type you are using may not be effective.

Early last year, jarrow changed its formula, and it became much less effective. Some of us contacted them because we noticed the problem together. Unfortunately, there are other brands of B12 sublinguals that seem to be less effective. ( I've had this same problem-many symptoms returned .)

Here is a link to a website devoted to treating the condition of ME/CFS: http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?find-new/6570495/threads

There are many treatments discussed on this site, including B12. Some people respond to certain brands of sublinguals, others do not. Some people have resorted to injections, because they don't feel anything from sublinguals, etc.

Another site to visit is the Pernicious Anaemia Society. Org, or b12d. Org. Many folks with PA, or B12 deficiency will also be deficient in Folate and Iron. (It would be a good idea to have folate and ferritin levels checked in case.) Not everyone with B12 deficiency will have the same, but some testing is recommended. Other B vitamins may be needed, so, a B complex is recommended. Starting with a low dose is a good idea, then see if extra individual B's are needed.

It's true that co-morbid conditions may exist with B12 deficiency, often times stomach acid is low, so digestion/absorption is weak. Many people here are helped by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, or lemon juice to aid digestion. Some people are taking hydrochloric acid supplements.

When taking measures to increase stomach acid, one may also need to strengthen the stomach lining and tissues to protect them from damage. Amino acids, such as proline, glycine, etc, are needed for this. Bone broth is a good gelatinous food to strengthen collagen, helping the gut.

When digestion is weak, minerals may also not be absorbed well. ( vegetarians may be low in zinc, but there could be other low minerals.)

It's also true that B12 deficiency can be from a lack of transport proteins, in addition to malabsorption. Transcobalamin deficiency may be the cause. It is treated with very high dosages of B12, until symptoms resolve. The B12 serum test does not indicate a good status in these people. They must rely on how they feel. The practitioner must be amenable to this type of treatment.

BTW, it may also be helpful to check for low thyroid function, it's another condition that accompanies B12 deficiency."

05/15/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I have experienced many of your wife's symptoms and the only things that work for me are the B-12 patches. At first try I had to really load up on them daily and take over the recommended amount. I would wake up in pain and numbness every morning until I got started with the patches. It took less than a week for me to see results. I still have some numbness in fingers on right hand but it is mild compared to what it was. I have tried the under the tongue pills and shots that were expensive but had no results. My doctor said my B-12 was in range and I had no problems but the only peace that I got from pain and fear that I was going blind was the B-12 patches."

05/20/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Dayton Ohio: Just wondering if there was a particular brand of patch that worked best for you, there are so many to choose from and we don't want to be starting all over again."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I get my B12 patches here- http://www.drdavidshealth.com/b-12-mega-patches/#.UZptkthhphA"

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I put the link to where I get the patches in another reply. I just wanted to add that I had to put about 4-5 patches on my body before I got relief at first. I must have been severely deficient in B12. It took about a week for me to find the amount that was right for me. I put them on my arm. They will stay on during a shower. I now use about one per week and sometimes two. Whenever I start to feel the tingling in my fingers I know it is time to apply a patch. I pray that your wife will have good results like I did. They will work, tell her not to give up."

05/21/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Ohio: Thanks for the link to the patches, I wanted to check really as my wife is already using these, she's has been on them for around 4 weeks or so but I will suggest she ups the amount she uses, thanks again for the tip."

05/21/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark,

You are welcome. Tell me, is your wife using the highest strength patch. (5000 mcg) Make sure she is. I started out using the 1000 mcg and it went nowhere. Before I gave up I tried the 5000 and it made all the difference in the world. Tell her I have felt her pain and to not give up. Has she read the book "Could it be B12" by Sally Pacholok? It might interest her. God Bless!"

[YEA]  08/30/2010: Dave from Battle Ground, Washington State, Usa: "I went out one morning to see thousands of small black ants outside our garage door, where the car drives in, all along the edge of the door. My first thought was to get some insecticide and spray but I don't like killing living things no matter what they are. I read a post somewhere saying 20 Mule Team Borax makes insects go away. So I sprinkled some across their path and went to the grocery store to shop. When I came back every single one of them had left, none were killed, and they went elsewhere."

08/28/2011: Patricia from Gulf, North Carolina: "Do you think the borax would work on getting rid of Fire Ants as well?"

02/19/2013: Mia from Ukiah, California: "I had such fun reading the progression of the posts. It was delightful. I love how we the people are taking back our rights & being good hearted & sensible."

04/11/2013: John from Rumson, Nj Usa: "I thought I was the only one in the world that knew "tell the Ants to leave" actually works. It really does work. And it makes you laugh because it's so simple."

04/14/2013: Sarah from Lehi, Ut: "I'm going to try asking them to leave. I like that idea, it certainly makes me smile. Wonder if it works on spiders too. :) I don't like killing anything, I figure they have a right to be here as much as we do and obviously there's a natural purpose for them."

04/15/2013: Polly from London, England: "I'm going to try this when the first little critturs come marching in when the weather warms up! At the moment I don't kill, them I use rotten lemon peels put down where they come in and it takes a little while but they certainly don't like the smell or taste of rotting lemon peels. I don't eat oranges so I haven't tried them maybe someone else could try that?"

05/21/2013: Deanna from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, Usa: "There was an ant running down the side of my bathtub yesterday. After reading here I sternly said to him "get out of here or I'm going to kill you! " He screeched to a halt and ran out of my house. I am truly stunned at his reaction."

05/21/2013: Kt from The Usa: "I remember reading to put lemon juice in the corner of windowsills to keep ants out of the house."

EC: Dear Precisely, we have cross-posted this feedback to the borax page under the table of contents title "Borax Dosages". Thank you!

05/20/2013: Susan from Chicago: "Precisely, What kind of Borax dosage did you take before bed time ? I am afraid drinking too much water before bed time. What brand borax did you use?"

05/20/2013: Carmela from Cambridge, Ma: "Thank you so much for submitting your borax remedy! I have tried borax, but don't like drinking a liter a day so your method of just 1 teaspoon at night sounds fantastic! I immediately went and prepared a bottle last night after reading your post and took my first teaspoon before bed. It relaxed me, but didn't zonk me out. I am looking forward to providing more feedback as time goes by. Thank you again!"

05/20/2013: Precisely. from Mineral Hill, New Mexico, Us: "Hi Susan from Chicago, I started with a teaspoon from the litre bottle of water and borax. I'm up to 1 tablespoon at bedtime now. To me, it tastes like very dilute apple juice, but most folks seem to think it tastes "soapy".

After the first 10 days, my response switched from bright and wide-awake to extremely sleepy. My guess is that I was having a healing crisis response, but one afternoon, I literally fell asleep standing up. Had a split-second to grab the armchair and fall down into it, instead of somewhere else. Scared the heck out of my cats, who were in the chair until I fell there, and also scared me, too. Fainting is different -- used to faint as a teen into my 20s. This was definitely falling asleep. Over the next week I asked a friend to be my 'contact buddy' and we spoke 2-3x daily, to make sure no other sudden surprises went unnoticed.

At some point we figured out that I should only take the borax at bedtime. Maybe it would be different if I sipped a pint or so that had a teaspoon in it... But for now, all's good. I do feel more energized during the daytime, as well. Interesting nutrient.

Debating whether to boost my intake, and not sure if I feel like experimenting with another daytime dose. My body feels like it wants more.

To Carmela from Cambridge, happy my idea helped!

To Leelannee from Sussex, NJ... I love your town! Those stone sidewalks, and all the old colonial buildings, plus so close to great parks and forests. I've had the same experience as you have if I miss even one dose (= bad night)."

05/21/2013: Susan from Chicgo, Chicago: "Where do you get your Borax? Is it 20 Mule?"

05/20/2013: Galaxy from Boston, Ma, Usa: "Additional note about ashwagandha; It did take three or four days for me to notice a much improved over all sense of well being. For more acute stress situations I add chamomile tea, but for long term overall stress reduction Ashwagandha has made an incredible difference. I wish I had known about this decades ago."

05/20/2013: Pg from Gaffney: "1/4 of what? Anyone know what he adds to kill the bitterness?"

05/21/2013: Courtney from Granite Bay: "You can add the ACV to any type juice if the taste bothers you. Many put the ACV into a small glass of orange juice."

05/20/2013: Helen from North Port, Fl: "Bill, Thank you so much for the link. I just finished reading it. Excellent information. I wholeheartedly agree, as I have been taking them for several years, with excellent results. The only ingredient I didn't know about was strontium. I will soon add it."

03/06/2013: Dukeycash from Dora, Mo: "Ms. Linda, I had a bone scan done several years ago, and I had osteoporosis pretty bad. I took P___B___ [Vitamin D3 (1000 IU), Vitamin K (1 mg), Folic acid (800 mcg), Calcium (1200 mg), Phosphorus (450 mg), Magnesium (400 mg), Selenium (200 mg), Copper (1 mg), Manganese (10 mg), Molybdenum (150 mcg), Ipriflavone (600 mg), Boron (5 mg)] for one year, and went back for another scan. The nurse called me and said the doctor wanted to know what I took to make my bones so much better.

Carol Ann"

03/07/2013: Art from Tustin, Ca. Usa: "Did you mean, "Selenium (200mg) or did you mean to say Selenium (200mcg)?" Most selenium supplements are 200mcg. Art"

05/20/2013: Helen from North Port, Fl: "To Dukeycash: Six years ago, my mother had extremely severe osteoporosis, so her Dr. put her on once a month pill which cost close to $800.00 per month. Of course, how was she to come up with this every month, so she did what you did, with the addition of horsetail (as a source of silica), and a combo of Vit A & D (she also took the extra D3 to make 1000 I. U. ). So the next time she was scanned, her Dr. also asked her the same question your Dr. asked you! She's 77 and still going strong!"

01/22/2013: Charlotte from Charlotte, N.c Mecklenburg: "Thanky you so much, I have been looking for something, anything to help with the hot flahes, I'm going out to day to buy the Boron, hope it work I'll check back in to let you know if it worked for me."

02/06/2013: Charlottte from Simpsonville, Sc: "Charlotte in Mecklenburg, I would love to know if you have gotten any results yet? Oh I do hope so. It has been fabulous not having these hot flashes and night sweats anymore!"

02/10/2013: Charlotte from Charlotte, Nc: "No, not yet, I'm still taking it, I'm also taking ACV, Maca, Vitamin E, Omega 3, Soy Isoflavones. Is there anything else out there that I need to try?"

02/27/2013: Charlottte from Simpsonville, Sc: "To Charlotte, in NC, If the boron hasn't helped, I would say try a progesterone cream. If you still cycle follow the directions. There is one brand that has been around a long, long time, and recommended by a fertility doc, ***-Gest. Hope this is helpful."

[WORKED TEMPORARILY]  05/20/2013: Minkypinky from New York, Ny: "Hey, I tried Boron and it worked from day 1, too. But after about two months, it has stopped working for me. I'm getting hot flashes again. I wonder if anyone else has had this experience? Where the effect wears off? I wonder why this happened. Very disappointed because I was soooo happy that the night sweats and hot flashes stopped. They're not as bad (before I was getting them every hour or two and now I only seem to get them if I exert myself or find myself in a warm situation, like too many clothes, or the A/C turns off in the subway), but they're back.

I'm reluctant to increase the dosage as I've read that high doses can actually worsen hot flashes."

05/21/2013: Ruth from Harlingen: "Maybe try lowering your dose of boron--maybe what was therapeutic before is too high now that your body doesn't have a deficiency."

EC: Dear Precisely, we have cross-posted this feedback to the borax page under the table of contents title "Borax Dosages". Thank you!

05/20/2013: Susan from Chicago: "Precisely, What kind of Borax dosage did you take before bed time ? I am afraid drinking too much water before bed time. What brand borax did you use?"

05/20/2013: Carmela from Cambridge, Ma: "Thank you so much for submitting your borax remedy! I have tried borax, but don't like drinking a liter a day so your method of just 1 teaspoon at night sounds fantastic! I immediately went and prepared a bottle last night after reading your post and took my first teaspoon before bed. It relaxed me, but didn't zonk me out. I am looking forward to providing more feedback as time goes by. Thank you again!"

05/20/2013: Precisely. from Mineral Hill, New Mexico, Us: "Hi Susan from Chicago, I started with a teaspoon from the litre bottle of water and borax. I'm up to 1 tablespoon at bedtime now. To me, it tastes like very dilute apple juice, but most folks seem to think it tastes "soapy".

After the first 10 days, my response switched from bright and wide-awake to extremely sleepy. My guess is that I was having a healing crisis response, but one afternoon, I literally fell asleep standing up. Had a split-second to grab the armchair and fall down into it, instead of somewhere else. Scared the heck out of my cats, who were in the chair until I fell there, and also scared me, too. Fainting is different -- used to faint as a teen into my 20s. This was definitely falling asleep. Over the next week I asked a friend to be my 'contact buddy' and we spoke 2-3x daily, to make sure no other sudden surprises went unnoticed.

At some point we figured out that I should only take the borax at bedtime. Maybe it would be different if I sipped a pint or so that had a teaspoon in it... But for now, all's good. I do feel more energized during the daytime, as well. Interesting nutrient.

Debating whether to boost my intake, and not sure if I feel like experimenting with another daytime dose. My body feels like it wants more.

To Carmela from Cambridge, happy my idea helped!

To Leelannee from Sussex, NJ... I love your town! Those stone sidewalks, and all the old colonial buildings, plus so close to great parks and forests. I've had the same experience as you have if I miss even one dose (= bad night)."

05/21/2013: Susan from Chicgo, Chicago: "Where do you get your Borax? Is it 20 Mule?"

05/14/2013: Mt from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: "When the blood is to thick it is very hard to collect it. You can thin the blood by drinking more water and by eating each day a clove of garlic. On earth clinic you can find a recipe for blocked blood vessels, based on lemon, garlic and honey, that will also help with the blood thinning.

Swedish bitter is helping with digestion -it improves liver and pancreas function.

For all the pain symptoms you have to consider Lyme disease.

I also recommend to read the book by Maria Treben, Health through God's Pharmacy. Look into stinging nettle, yarrow, calendula and horse tail tees."

05/15/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Mark; I commend your caring efforts to help your wife. The symptoms you've listed do pertain to B12 deficiency, and it's possible that the brand and type you are using may not be effective.

Early last year, jarrow changed its formula, and it became much less effective. Some of us contacted them because we noticed the problem together. Unfortunately, there are other brands of B12 sublinguals that seem to be less effective. ( I've had this same problem-many symptoms returned .)

Here is a link to a website devoted to treating the condition of ME/CFS: http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?find-new/6570495/threads

There are many treatments discussed on this site, including B12. Some people respond to certain brands of sublinguals, others do not. Some people have resorted to injections, because they don't feel anything from sublinguals, etc.

Another site to visit is the Pernicious Anaemia Society. Org, or b12d. Org. Many folks with PA, or B12 deficiency will also be deficient in Folate and Iron. (It would be a good idea to have folate and ferritin levels checked in case.) Not everyone with B12 deficiency will have the same, but some testing is recommended. Other B vitamins may be needed, so, a B complex is recommended. Starting with a low dose is a good idea, then see if extra individual B's are needed.

It's true that co-morbid conditions may exist with B12 deficiency, often times stomach acid is low, so digestion/absorption is weak. Many people here are helped by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, or lemon juice to aid digestion. Some people are taking hydrochloric acid supplements.

When taking measures to increase stomach acid, one may also need to strengthen the stomach lining and tissues to protect them from damage. Amino acids, such as proline, glycine, etc, are needed for this. Bone broth is a good gelatinous food to strengthen collagen, helping the gut.

When digestion is weak, minerals may also not be absorbed well. ( vegetarians may be low in zinc, but there could be other low minerals.)

It's also true that B12 deficiency can be from a lack of transport proteins, in addition to malabsorption. Transcobalamin deficiency may be the cause. It is treated with very high dosages of B12, until symptoms resolve. The B12 serum test does not indicate a good status in these people. They must rely on how they feel. The practitioner must be amenable to this type of treatment.

BTW, it may also be helpful to check for low thyroid function, it's another condition that accompanies B12 deficiency."

05/15/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I have experienced many of your wife's symptoms and the only things that work for me are the B-12 patches. At first try I had to really load up on them daily and take over the recommended amount. I would wake up in pain and numbness every morning until I got started with the patches. It took less than a week for me to see results. I still have some numbness in fingers on right hand but it is mild compared to what it was. I have tried the under the tongue pills and shots that were expensive but had no results. My doctor said my B-12 was in range and I had no problems but the only peace that I got from pain and fear that I was going blind was the B-12 patches."

05/20/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Dayton Ohio: Just wondering if there was a particular brand of patch that worked best for you, there are so many to choose from and we don't want to be starting all over again."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I get my B12 patches here- http://www.drdavidshealth.com/b-12-mega-patches/#.UZptkthhphA"

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I put the link to where I get the patches in another reply. I just wanted to add that I had to put about 4-5 patches on my body before I got relief at first. I must have been severely deficient in B12. It took about a week for me to find the amount that was right for me. I put them on my arm. They will stay on during a shower. I now use about one per week and sometimes two. Whenever I start to feel the tingling in my fingers I know it is time to apply a patch. I pray that your wife will have good results like I did. They will work, tell her not to give up."

05/21/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Ohio: Thanks for the link to the patches, I wanted to check really as my wife is already using these, she's has been on them for around 4 weeks or so but I will suggest she ups the amount she uses, thanks again for the tip."

05/21/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark,

You are welcome. Tell me, is your wife using the highest strength patch. (5000 mcg) Make sure she is. I started out using the 1000 mcg and it went nowhere. Before I gave up I tried the 5000 and it made all the difference in the world. Tell her I have felt her pain and to not give up. Has she read the book "Could it be B12" by Sally Pacholok? It might interest her. God Bless!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "There were some wonderful testimonies this winter in the earth clinic of people that found answers to these polyps and I enjoyed the explanations for them. Hope you can find them in here and find your answers too. Love, joy"

05/20/2013: Frog513 from Swansboro, Nc, Us: "Hi Pinky,

I suffered for many years (10+) with nasal polyps and chronic sinus infections. I had other health issues but this was one that was chronic and annoying! What helped me the most was 1) going gluten free/dairy free and 2) taking a good non-dairy pro-biotic and NAC 600mg ( N-acetyl cysteine). I haven't had a sinus infection since 2008 and I rarely get sick with colds/flu and I no longer have allergies... I know this may seem extreme but it is worth it. Hope this offers some hope!

Good Luck~

Carleen"

02/15/2009: Dianna from Austin, TX: "my skin used to always feel dry and tight after a shower with soap. however, since i have stopped using soap on my skin it no longer feels as dry or itchy. what i do now is soak in an epsom salt bath (1 to 2 cups epsom salts and 9 drops of lavender oil) and i just scrub my wet skin with a loofah or scrub brush. afterwards i put virgin coconut oil onto my still damp skin. soap is not really necessary unless you are extremely greasy or dirty. i have been doing this for years and i've also found that since i stopped washing my underarms with soap that my sweat smells less stinky - i could probably go without deodorant! but i use a crystal deodorant stone just in case...
good luck"

02/15/2009: Mary from Chicago, IL: "I would stop using soap altogether. I bet that is part of the problem. Just use it on your private parts. Arizona is really dry, so you need to hydrate your skin inside and out. Might help if you drink more water, take omega 3s and stay away from soap!"

02/18/2009: Sonsa from Phoenix, AZ: "Not all soap causes this reaction. I started making my own soap because my skin is so very sensitive. All natural, handmade soap is vastly different than the commercial variety. Shea butter, lavender and other skin soothing and moisturizing ingredients can be included. I make soap for friends and family too. If you would like more information, please contact me."

03/18/2009: Libby from Pleasanton, CA: "Someone said to use soap only on your "privates" but this is actually a very bad idea. These areas are even MORE sensitive than the rest of your body and several sources say not to use any soap at all unless you already know that it doesn't irritate you (you've been using it without a problem for years). It sounds weird but usually warm water and a washcloth is sufficient as long as you do it every day, obviously. Most "feminine" products actually have chemicals in them that can be very harsh and irritating. Personally I won't use anything that isn't 100% natural because I am so ridiculously careful about it."

03/19/2009: C.S.M from VERO BEACH, FL: "These symptoms are most likely from the use of hot water and from dry skin:

Cholinergic Urticaria (Physical Urticaria, Sweat Allergy, Heat Hives)

Here's a good link:

Go halfway down the page to "Itchy Leg After A Shower":
http://www.healthhype.com/itchy-legs-causes-and-treatment.html

Bottom Line:

Cholinergic Urticaria (Physical Urticaria, Sweat Allergy, Heat Hives)

Urticaria (hives) are red, swollen bumps or patches appearing on the skin due to allergic reaction to some substances or, as it is the case in cholinergic urticaria, physical stimuli like exercise, heat, sunlight, cold, pressure, vibration, water, spicy food, or emotional stress.

Try prevention first. Avoid the use of hot water. Use lukewarm water instead. (I know that is not a fun suggestion--Sorry!) Consider moisturizing the skin with a light coating of a natural oil--like coconut, jojoba or olive oil after showering. Other treatment involves medicines--Benedryl etc.

Best Wishes. Hope you feel better!"

03/20/2009: Dianna from Austin, TX: "stop using soap. i used to be itchy every time i took a bath or shower until i stopped ALL soap. what i do now is bathe in a solution of 1 or 2 cups of epsom salts and a tub full of water. i scrub with a loofah and after i get out while my skin is still damp i rub virgin coconut oil all over my skin. then towel dry off the excess. since i have stopped using soap my skin isn't dry and i can even skip the coconut oil if i want to."

09/01/2009: Rebecca from Grand Rapids, Mi: "I have the same intense itch, no rash, that i believe you're talking about. It just started one day and i thought it was just sensitive skin. When it didn't go away after a couple of weeks I changed to hypoallergenic soaps, detergents, anything I could find. I even use all natural cleaning agents for the house. I stopped shaving because I thought that was the culprit. I wake up in the night (and wake up my partner) itching, in tears, trying to stop and having very little self control. Im told that if I can just stop the cycle, then it will go away. The only thing that seems to make it better is the steroid creme I use on my eczema outbreaks (which I try not to use but when it helps so much it's hard to stop). I don't wear shorts anymore because I'm ashamed of the scars and scabs all over my legs. Any ideas would be appreciated!!"

09/03/2009: Jc from Milpitas, Ca: "Fill up the bath tub with water add 3/4 cup of bleach soak for 1 hour every day for 2 weeks, You should start to see big improvements if you really do have eczema... You might have Psoriasis

Zinc works very well on eczema......

JC"

09/03/2009: Kyra from Cortlandt Manor, Ny, Usa: "I would not suggest soaking in bleach, I would however suggest eliminating soap and using some borax, epsoms or sea salts, baking soda, peroxide, and tea tree oil in your bath regularly. Trust me you will be amazed at the difference in your skin. It has done wonders for my children's and my skin. I would also suggest using extra virgin coconut oil as a moisturizer. The initial reaction of people is that it is too oily, but you will find that your skin will absorb it very quickly. Taking the oil internally will also help to combat the itchy and dry skin. Good luck!"

05/20/2013: Anonymous from Honolulu, Hawaii: "My integrative MD told me that itchiness can be from caused from several things, and that what is going on in the inside of body is being reflecte onto the skin, itching maybe the liver being overloaded and you need to detox or you could have systemic candida this a stool test will determine if you have it or not. It could be blood fungus. It can be thyroid. Even if your thyroid shows up normal you may be still be having low thyroid symptoms, it can be hormones see a bio-identical hormone specialist. Here are some possibilities : parasites , mercury fillings, lead poisioning (from lead paint or pipes) vitamins, prescribed medication, shampoo, soaps, detergent, plants, pets , your car interior, the paint in your house or plants around your house , the fibers that you wear, the area that you live or work may have issues or it could simply be vitamin deficiencies. I read recently that itchy skin could be from eating seafood which are mercury magnets! Anyhow, the list goes on, and on, but you see my point. There are so many causes

I had crazy itching for years, it felt like biting, itching burning and I felt total exhaustion. My MD had no answers I went an ND and I had low thyroid even though my thyroid test looked normal on the tests I had symptoms that all pointed to hypothyroidism ... I needed iodine, Lugols and Solid Hawthorne extract is what I take, I also had low ferritin when both of those issues were addressed I felt fine. But it took years and many doctors to get to this answer!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "There were some wonderful testimonies this winter in the earth clinic of people that found answers to these polyps and I enjoyed the explanations for them. Hope you can find them in here and find your answers too. Love, joy"

05/20/2013: Frog513 from Swansboro, Nc, Us: "Hi Pinky,

I suffered for many years (10+) with nasal polyps and chronic sinus infections. I had other health issues but this was one that was chronic and annoying! What helped me the most was 1) going gluten free/dairy free and 2) taking a good non-dairy pro-biotic and NAC 600mg ( N-acetyl cysteine). I haven't had a sinus infection since 2008 and I rarely get sick with colds/flu and I no longer have allergies... I know this may seem extreme but it is worth it. Hope this offers some hope!

Good Luck~

Carleen"

05/14/2013: Mt from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: "When the blood is to thick it is very hard to collect it. You can thin the blood by drinking more water and by eating each day a clove of garlic. On earth clinic you can find a recipe for blocked blood vessels, based on lemon, garlic and honey, that will also help with the blood thinning.

Swedish bitter is helping with digestion -it improves liver and pancreas function.

For all the pain symptoms you have to consider Lyme disease.

I also recommend to read the book by Maria Treben, Health through God's Pharmacy. Look into stinging nettle, yarrow, calendula and horse tail tees."

05/15/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Mark; I commend your caring efforts to help your wife. The symptoms you've listed do pertain to B12 deficiency, and it's possible that the brand and type you are using may not be effective.

Early last year, jarrow changed its formula, and it became much less effective. Some of us contacted them because we noticed the problem together. Unfortunately, there are other brands of B12 sublinguals that seem to be less effective. ( I've had this same problem-many symptoms returned .)

Here is a link to a website devoted to treating the condition of ME/CFS: http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?find-new/6570495/threads

There are many treatments discussed on this site, including B12. Some people respond to certain brands of sublinguals, others do not. Some people have resorted to injections, because they don't feel anything from sublinguals, etc.

Another site to visit is the Pernicious Anaemia Society. Org, or b12d. Org. Many folks with PA, or B12 deficiency will also be deficient in Folate and Iron. (It would be a good idea to have folate and ferritin levels checked in case.) Not everyone with B12 deficiency will have the same, but some testing is recommended. Other B vitamins may be needed, so, a B complex is recommended. Starting with a low dose is a good idea, then see if extra individual B's are needed.

It's true that co-morbid conditions may exist with B12 deficiency, often times stomach acid is low, so digestion/absorption is weak. Many people here are helped by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, or lemon juice to aid digestion. Some people are taking hydrochloric acid supplements.

When taking measures to increase stomach acid, one may also need to strengthen the stomach lining and tissues to protect them from damage. Amino acids, such as proline, glycine, etc, are needed for this. Bone broth is a good gelatinous food to strengthen collagen, helping the gut.

When digestion is weak, minerals may also not be absorbed well. ( vegetarians may be low in zinc, but there could be other low minerals.)

It's also true that B12 deficiency can be from a lack of transport proteins, in addition to malabsorption. Transcobalamin deficiency may be the cause. It is treated with very high dosages of B12, until symptoms resolve. The B12 serum test does not indicate a good status in these people. They must rely on how they feel. The practitioner must be amenable to this type of treatment.

BTW, it may also be helpful to check for low thyroid function, it's another condition that accompanies B12 deficiency."

05/15/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I have experienced many of your wife's symptoms and the only things that work for me are the B-12 patches. At first try I had to really load up on them daily and take over the recommended amount. I would wake up in pain and numbness every morning until I got started with the patches. It took less than a week for me to see results. I still have some numbness in fingers on right hand but it is mild compared to what it was. I have tried the under the tongue pills and shots that were expensive but had no results. My doctor said my B-12 was in range and I had no problems but the only peace that I got from pain and fear that I was going blind was the B-12 patches."

05/20/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Dayton Ohio: Just wondering if there was a particular brand of patch that worked best for you, there are so many to choose from and we don't want to be starting all over again."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I get my B12 patches here- http://www.drdavidshealth.com/b-12-mega-patches/#.UZptkthhphA"

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I put the link to where I get the patches in another reply. I just wanted to add that I had to put about 4-5 patches on my body before I got relief at first. I must have been severely deficient in B12. It took about a week for me to find the amount that was right for me. I put them on my arm. They will stay on during a shower. I now use about one per week and sometimes two. Whenever I start to feel the tingling in my fingers I know it is time to apply a patch. I pray that your wife will have good results like I did. They will work, tell her not to give up."

05/21/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Ohio: Thanks for the link to the patches, I wanted to check really as my wife is already using these, she's has been on them for around 4 weeks or so but I will suggest she ups the amount she uses, thanks again for the tip."

05/21/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark,

You are welcome. Tell me, is your wife using the highest strength patch. (5000 mcg) Make sure she is. I started out using the 1000 mcg and it went nowhere. Before I gave up I tried the 5000 and it made all the difference in the world. Tell her I have felt her pain and to not give up. Has she read the book "Could it be B12" by Sally Pacholok? It might interest her. God Bless!"

05/19/2013: Katie M from Hale, Mi: "I've read a few of the posts on red rice yeast and I would like to comment as an RN. First, keep in mind that if you have the misfortune of having hypercholesterolemia, you must continue treating it. Your LDL may lower with treatment but will return to high # when you stop treatment. Secondly, to the gentleman who doesn't want to lower his # below 200? I will see you in my CCU unit someday when you have a heart attack because your cholesterol was too high! Don't forget about the HDL! (Good cholesterol) it is just as important! It helps to eliminate the "Bad" LDL. Omega-3 fatty acids! 2-3 grams daily."

05/20/2013: Trudyg : "I disagree. I got my cholesterol down using red rice yeast, but I'm keeping it down by watching my diet. I no longer take something for it. Years back I was on zocor but it had horrible side effects (not due to zocor, says dr). I exercise, eat a variety of fresh vegetables, use coconut oil, eat fresh fish often--and it stays down with a good ratio of ldl/hdl."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Protecting yourself against heart disease requires far more than just simply lowering your cholesterol levels. In fact, 50 percent of the people who are hospitalized with heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels, and 25 percent of people who develop premature heart disease have no traditional risk factors at all. Maybe elevated cholesterol isn't the real cause of heart disease in the first place.

Trillions of dollars are spent on cholesterol lowering drugs (statins) and heart disease is still the leading cause of death. What is wrong with this picture?"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I also have Amy Stein's book and it is very interesting covering not just womens issues but pelvic issues for children to old people. My PT said it might help me, but it wasn't my answer but did help me understand why one of my children had disconnect with bladder and bowel and was also muscular and tightly wound. Patience is so important with our fellow humans and their sufferrings. Thank you for your story. May all your outcomes be GOOD ones. Love, Joy"

05/18/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Mari, have you been diluting it in plenty of water?"

05/20/2013: Davey D. from Vancouver Bc., Canada: "To Marie from London. You are supposed to take two tablespoon of ACV in a glass with 1/4 tsp. of baking soda mixed in and let it fizz off. Then you can mix some water or flavored water if you like up to a full glass. No wonder you are so acidic.

Davey D."

05/10/2013: John from Sydney, Australia: "Buy shizandra, alpha lipoic acid, selenium and chanca Pedra immediately to reduce your liver enzymes, inflammation and fibrosis. Hep b can be controlled and cured as well. U don't have to die. Take this supplements 2 tablet twice daily at different times (reduce drug interaction) except selenium one tablet twice daily for two weeks. Other tablet for one month.

take virgin coconut oil 2 teaspoon twice daily and order BHT and take as required.

you will be surprised at this amazing treatment after two month."

05/11/2013: Oscar from Syracuse, New York, Usa: "Well, there is the BHT [ butylated hydroxytoluene ] treatment for hepatitis B. It did work for me and others for hepatitis B as discussed in this group`s forum. People living in Nigeria can purchase BHT here:

http://www.nutri.com/index.cfm/product/31_17/butylated-hydroxytoluene-bht.cfm?gclid=CNaYjOb9xLUCFQyg4AodHloAww

The BHT treatment is discussed in this group`s archives here:

01/19/2013: Oscar from Syracuse, New York, Usa replies: "Dear James from Bangkok, I have tried many times to copy and paste what "T" for tablecorn has to say about the use of BHT to treat chronic hepatitis B. I will try again:

Here are my HBV test results:

04/20/2012
HBV IU/mL: 260, 230
HBV Copies/mL: 1, 514, 500

08/20/2012
HBV IU/mL: 204, 890
HBV Copies/mL: 1, 192, 500

11/27/2012
HBV IU/mL: 28, 970
HBV Copies/mL: 168, 600

After the first three months, I had a 25% reduction between my first and second test, and a 86% reduction between my second and third test. 1, 514, 500 to 168, 600 is amazing!

Though, it's hard to say exactly what has contributed to this. In addition to BHT, I started taking Chanca Piedra and Monolaurin these last three months. I also cut out a lot of my workout supplements/super dosing of vitamins.

Chanca Piedra is said help prevent certain viruses from replicating and monolaurin is said to destroy lipid coated viruses, similar to BHT. I'm sure they've both had a big impact on my results.

There are other reports discussed in this group`s archives regarding BHT and also Chanca Piedra. Click here to read the many reports with or without BHT here:

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/hepatitis-b.html"

05/18/2013: Jamaal2013 from Lagos: "Danbuzu: You are not dying and you need to maintain a very positive outlook. It is all the same for us when we first dicscovered our HBV status. But as you read more and get your test result you will be so convinced that you will likely grow old and die of something else. You need to know that HBV is manageable. There are good therapies out there and your gastroenterologist will likely make some recommendations. Also there are many herbs and other alternatives you may explore as mentioned in the forum. I just started trying Chanca piedra (it grows as weed in my compound, so easy so cheap). Just so you know it is called 'geron tsuntsaye' in Hausa. If you are interested in having a conversation we can exchange contacts and discuss more."

05/20/2013: Davey D. from Vancouver, Bc, Canada: "To Jamaal 2013 How about trying to cure your hep b instead of managing it. There are products that are having a large succes rate in doing so. I will name them for you so you will know.

BHT (butylated hydroxy toluene) 350mg once a day proven to kill all lipid coated viruses. Chanca Piedra 500mg once a day with food at fifferent times. B12 5,000mcg sublingual, Vitamin D3

The thing is knowing what not to take like grape fruit juice, and milk thistle blocks these compounds and vitamin E helps the virus to replicate.

Davey D."

04/09/2013: Dave from Fountain Inn, SC: "To the issue of whether consumption of arginine can impact Hep B and C, in theory yes. That is because taking arginine can reduce the amount of lysine (another amino acid) in the body and lycine helps fight off at least one virus...herpes simplex. In theory then, lysine may be helping to keep another virus from springing up... such as Hep B and C. About 15 percent of the population has herpes simplex from the reading I have seen. But by extrapolating from this one might theorize that lysine inhibits viral growth and so, again in theory, if lysine is diminished from the system then obviously its inhibiting viral effects might be reduced also.

HOWEVER there are two solutions to the problem for those like myself who take large amounts of arginine because of its amazing health benefits: After consumption of my arginine in the morning (in a liquid form... 5 thousand mg), in the afternoon, I take 500 mg of additional lysine, just to make sure lysine is not being depleted by such large amounts of arginine. Next, to make sure I am not inadvertently reducing an anti viral ability to help my immune system, I take small sips of colloidal silver at least three times weekly. The silver will act to swish out viruses in my body. I'd love for someone to disabuse me of this "theory" I pose above. That is, that lysine does suppress herpes simplex and thus (the theory) that therefore lysine might be suppressing other viruses also and by extension (continued theory) that supplements of lysine if one is taking arginine should counter arginine's impact on lysine in the system."

04/09/2013: Paula from San Francisco, Ca: "I am taking the same amount of arginine per day. How much lysine are you taing for for how long?

BTW I also take for all the health benefits. I don't believe anyone should take blood pressure medication."

04/10/2013: Ll from La, Ca: "Dave from Fountain In S, C. How much lysine are u taking? Thx much"

05/18/2013: David from Fountain Inn, Sc: "Sorry for my delay in responding on the quantity of lysine I take; I did mention it in my original post but it might not have been clear. I take 500 mg daily."

05/20/2013: Davey D. from Vancover, Bc Canada: "If you want to hang on to the Hep b - C virus then do so. L-Lysine will cause a toxic build up in the liver which will relate to overdose.

I take BHT 350mg per day Chanca Piedra, B12 5, 000 mcg sublingual, B12 1,000 mcg time released and Vitamin D3. My liver functions have come down to the normal range from over 200 ALT. I have Hep C and never felt better. I am suspecting a cure very soon with this treatment and I have the numbers to prove it as opposed to speculation by how you feel.

Also it is beneficial to know what not to take like grape fruit juice, milk thistle, and Vitamin E which has been found in tests to help the hep c virus to duplicate.

Davey D."

EC: Dear Precisely, we have cross-posted this feedback to the borax page under the table of contents title "Borax Dosages". Thank you!

05/20/2013: Susan from Chicago: "Precisely, What kind of Borax dosage did you take before bed time ? I am afraid drinking too much water before bed time. What brand borax did you use?"

05/20/2013: Carmela from Cambridge, Ma: "Thank you so much for submitting your borax remedy! I have tried borax, but don't like drinking a liter a day so your method of just 1 teaspoon at night sounds fantastic! I immediately went and prepared a bottle last night after reading your post and took my first teaspoon before bed. It relaxed me, but didn't zonk me out. I am looking forward to providing more feedback as time goes by. Thank you again!"

05/20/2013: Precisely. from Mineral Hill, New Mexico, Us: "Hi Susan from Chicago, I started with a teaspoon from the litre bottle of water and borax. I'm up to 1 tablespoon at bedtime now. To me, it tastes like very dilute apple juice, but most folks seem to think it tastes "soapy".

After the first 10 days, my response switched from bright and wide-awake to extremely sleepy. My guess is that I was having a healing crisis response, but one afternoon, I literally fell asleep standing up. Had a split-second to grab the armchair and fall down into it, instead of somewhere else. Scared the heck out of my cats, who were in the chair until I fell there, and also scared me, too. Fainting is different -- used to faint as a teen into my 20s. This was definitely falling asleep. Over the next week I asked a friend to be my 'contact buddy' and we spoke 2-3x daily, to make sure no other sudden surprises went unnoticed.

At some point we figured out that I should only take the borax at bedtime. Maybe it would be different if I sipped a pint or so that had a teaspoon in it... But for now, all's good. I do feel more energized during the daytime, as well. Interesting nutrient.

Debating whether to boost my intake, and not sure if I feel like experimenting with another daytime dose. My body feels like it wants more.

To Carmela from Cambridge, happy my idea helped!

To Leelannee from Sussex, NJ... I love your town! Those stone sidewalks, and all the old colonial buildings, plus so close to great parks and forests. I've had the same experience as you have if I miss even one dose (= bad night)."

05/21/2013: Susan from Chicgo, Chicago: "Where do you get your Borax? Is it 20 Mule?"

EC: Dear Precisely, we have cross-posted this feedback to the borax page under the table of contents title "Borax Dosages". Thank you!

05/20/2013: Susan from Chicago: "Precisely, What kind of Borax dosage did you take before bed time ? I am afraid drinking too much water before bed time. What brand borax did you use?"

05/20/2013: Carmela from Cambridge, Ma: "Thank you so much for submitting your borax remedy! I have tried borax, but don't like drinking a liter a day so your method of just 1 teaspoon at night sounds fantastic! I immediately went and prepared a bottle last night after reading your post and took my first teaspoon before bed. It relaxed me, but didn't zonk me out. I am looking forward to providing more feedback as time goes by. Thank you again!"

05/20/2013: Precisely. from Mineral Hill, New Mexico, Us: "Hi Susan from Chicago, I started with a teaspoon from the litre bottle of water and borax. I'm up to 1 tablespoon at bedtime now. To me, it tastes like very dilute apple juice, but most folks seem to think it tastes "soapy".

After the first 10 days, my response switched from bright and wide-awake to extremely sleepy. My guess is that I was having a healing crisis response, but one afternoon, I literally fell asleep standing up. Had a split-second to grab the armchair and fall down into it, instead of somewhere else. Scared the heck out of my cats, who were in the chair until I fell there, and also scared me, too. Fainting is different -- used to faint as a teen into my 20s. This was definitely falling asleep. Over the next week I asked a friend to be my 'contact buddy' and we spoke 2-3x daily, to make sure no other sudden surprises went unnoticed.

At some point we figured out that I should only take the borax at bedtime. Maybe it would be different if I sipped a pint or so that had a teaspoon in it... But for now, all's good. I do feel more energized during the daytime, as well. Interesting nutrient.

Debating whether to boost my intake, and not sure if I feel like experimenting with another daytime dose. My body feels like it wants more.

To Carmela from Cambridge, happy my idea helped!

To Leelannee from Sussex, NJ... I love your town! Those stone sidewalks, and all the old colonial buildings, plus so close to great parks and forests. I've had the same experience as you have if I miss even one dose (= bad night)."

05/21/2013: Susan from Chicgo, Chicago: "Where do you get your Borax? Is it 20 Mule?"

05/20/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Clio51, have you read up on oil-pulling?"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I believe I read that low magnesium causes this but I also think that dehydration would contribute. Since magnesium pushes the calcium in and out of the cells and also aids the salt to hold the water in the cells then it would affect the joints as well.

With no water cushioning the joints, they would get sticky and very painful. Try a multi vitamin and multi mineral supplement and drink water half an hour before eating."

05/19/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Saba: when you see eye flashes you should RUN to the doctor! It may be nothing but it may be something very serious and you MUST catch it early."

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "This is one of the rare times I am going to say this.... You need to see an eye doctor. Right away. As in first thing in the morning. You could have something very serious going on that could cause blindness. I am not trying to scare you, but please.... Go. Good luck, and please keep us posted."

05/19/2013: Saba from Mentor, Oh: "OK thanks I will do that. Scary!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I got these once in the shape of a football that got larger and larger until I couldn't see at all... For about half an hour , then I was fine and went to the eye doc. He asked if I had a pounding headache. I said no, he said lucky you, it was a migraine. My friend gets them and loses her sight all the time, for more than an hour at a time. Maybe low magnesium. I had this over ten years ago, only one!"

05/20/2013: Art from Vancover, Bc. Canada: "I used to get them to as well as a pressure feeling in my left eye. I then discovered B12 5,000 mcg sublingual did the trick. I also take a B12 1,000 mcg time released with my other vitamins. There is no toxicity as you pee out what you don't need. It also helps with neuropathy. Art."

05/19/2013: Katie M from Hale, Mi: "I've read a few of the posts on red rice yeast and I would like to comment as an RN. First, keep in mind that if you have the misfortune of having hypercholesterolemia, you must continue treating it. Your LDL may lower with treatment but will return to high # when you stop treatment. Secondly, to the gentleman who doesn't want to lower his # below 200? I will see you in my CCU unit someday when you have a heart attack because your cholesterol was too high! Don't forget about the HDL! (Good cholesterol) it is just as important! It helps to eliminate the "Bad" LDL. Omega-3 fatty acids! 2-3 grams daily."

05/20/2013: Trudyg : "I disagree. I got my cholesterol down using red rice yeast, but I'm keeping it down by watching my diet. I no longer take something for it. Years back I was on zocor but it had horrible side effects (not due to zocor, says dr). I exercise, eat a variety of fresh vegetables, use coconut oil, eat fresh fish often--and it stays down with a good ratio of ldl/hdl."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Protecting yourself against heart disease requires far more than just simply lowering your cholesterol levels. In fact, 50 percent of the people who are hospitalized with heart attacks have normal cholesterol levels, and 25 percent of people who develop premature heart disease have no traditional risk factors at all. Maybe elevated cholesterol isn't the real cause of heart disease in the first place.

Trillions of dollars are spent on cholesterol lowering drugs (statins) and heart disease is still the leading cause of death. What is wrong with this picture?"

03/27/2013: Bradshad from North Prov., Rhode Island: "You need to cleanse your liver. Just my guess."

03/27/2013: Claromce from Templeton, Ca, Usa: "Not sure what magnesium oil is, but magnesium tabs helped me a lot."

03/28/2013: Wellspruce from Juneau, Ak, Usa: "Trudyg, I like you tried them all for sleeping. Finally I stumbled onto Melatonin Ultra, 3 mg melatonin, theanine, GABA, chamomile, valerian, B6 and calcium. You're to take 1, 2 if jet lagged. I've been taking 1. 5 the past year and backed off to just one tab 2 weeks ago as I'm on my way to bed, not earlier than that. I fall asleep fast. My problem is I have "waking insomnia" where I sleep three or four hours then am wide awake. Have had it many years. This product has helped me sleep through most nights. Hope you try it and it works for you also."

03/28/2013: Trudyg from Waynesboro, Va: "How does a liver cleanse help insomnia? Also, the melatonin ultra is just one of the things I have already tried without success. Please, is there nothing else out there? How do you cleanse a liver?"

03/28/2013: Jade from Dallas, Texas: "Yes, how do you cleanse your liver? I will do anything as I have severe insomnia and sleep only couple hours every night so please let me know any suggestions how to get into a sleep clinic would be great. Thanks Jade"

03/28/2013: Ejules from Woodbridge, Va, Us: "Try "Insomnia" by Hyland. I"ve used it for years and it has worked for several people who I've recommended it to (I always offer to buy their bottle if it doesn't work for them). It's a tiny homeopathic tablet that dissolves under your tongue. One or two should solve your sleeplessness and a bottle of 50 costs less than $10 so it's definitely cost effective. Totally counterintuitive as to why it should work but it does. It's more effective than melatonin, ambien, and all the other things I tried. Now, I always have some at home by the bed and definitely when I travel. Especially good for those nights when the tape in your head won't turn off or if you wake up in the middle of the night and can't get back to sleep. I've taken one tab to get back to sleep when I had to be up in 2-3 hrs; two or three when first going to bed, if needed. You won't have a 'hangover' like some of those others give you. Hope this helps you get some rest."

03/28/2013: Bradshad from North Prov., Rhode Island: "Well, it has been a little while so you may want to google some info but you should eat fruits (which are the cleaners) and veggies (which are the builders), Avoid sugars, alcohol, white flour products. Lean meats and healthy grains I think are acceptable. Do some more research. Also get some liver cleanse pills. I was told by a naturopath that if you are having trouble sleeping or wake up thru the night it is because sleep is disturbed because the liver is busy processing so many toxins. So at the end of the day cleanup your diet. Diet is king."

03/29/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa: "A simple Liver cleanse is to eat lots of Beets."

03/29/2013: Trudyg from Waynesboro, Va: "I would willingly do a liver cleanse IF I were sure it would not excacerbate my ibs-d. I'm doing too well controlling it to take a chance. The lemon juice/baking soda thing could start diarhhea and, w/ me, this can go on for a year or more once it starts. Eating beets I can do, I love them and do eat them frequently. Grow them in my garden, so I know they are organic. I eat lots of 'greens', whatever is growing at the moment, so I think my diet is pretty good overall. I eat chia seeds daily, drink homemade kefir, don't eat much meat but usually fish, maybe the grains is where I go wrong. The unprocessed grains usually get my bowels going, so I avoid them. I do appreciate the comments, will try the niacinamide. Thanks."

03/29/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Trudyg; Insomnia has been a problem for me too, and like you, I've tried many supplements and herbs. It is still difficult. What works for many, sometimes will have the opposite effect for me.

I try to keep a record of supplements, herbs, even foods that have a stimulating or relaxing effect.

I take B vitamin supplements, but most are stimulating, so I take them in the morning. ( I take extra B12 sublinguals. BTW, it helps my hot flashes. ) B12 suppresses melatonin in the day, allowing it to increase at night.

I do take Niacinamide, (B3), in the evening, it relaxes me. ( I take 250 mgs.)

I still take 1mg. of Melatonin in the evening. It helps, but it doesn't work alone for me.

This past year, I've had good results from taking 15mgs. of Zinc in the evening. ( It may help people with elevated evening cortisol, or possibly, elevated blood sugar.)

I take extra Potassium as a supplement, it also relaxes me.

There are many supplements that work miraculously for other folks, such as : Vitamin D, Magnesium, etc. , but I seem to have a paradoxical reaction to them - worsened insomnia. (I'm sure many folks could have this same reaction to the supplements that work for me.)

I believe my best success with insomnia is from finding the substances that interfere with sleep.

Good Wishes."

03/31/2013: Tamara from Bellevue (formerly Ft. Collins, Co), Wa: "Hi Connie, have you tried switching around when you take vitamin D? I noticed that you mentioned you take your B vitamins in the morning. There's mounting anecdotal evidence (since no one is doing a study on timing of intake) that vitamin D supplementation in the morning improves sleep in lots of different facets. For me, it made me drowsier at night so it's easier to fall asleep and my mood was better when waking (to me indicating that I was more rested). I believe that it acts like liquid, chemical sunshine and helps set our circadian rhythm. Seth Roberts has collected a sample of people's testimonies of morning vitamin D supplementation here: http://blog.sethroberts.net/category/sleep/vitamin-d3-and-sleep/"

03/31/2013: Andrea C from Cardiff, Wales: "The Liver cleanse, is good, but you can't do anything for days! It works BUT you're gonna feel real nasty! Never mind House work, and stuff like that. The "DETOX" Reaction will get you! I know! I did this loads of times. Do not go to the ER. They will put you on drugs. Then you end up were you started and worse than that. I know. Belive me, I am detoxing and I feel real ill! BUT... I know it's working. Best of luck xx Love andrea c"

04/01/2013: Trudyg from Waynesboro, Va: "I am really afraid of doing a liver cleanse, after doing some research. It makes you really move things out. With ibs-d, I'm moving pretty fast as an everyday thing. Getting it to stop is the problem. If you haven't had diarrhea constantly for years, every single day, then you don't know what I mean. Seriously, I wear depends in order to go buy groceries. As I am now in a fairly good place, I'm not tinkering with it. The last flare I had lasted over a year and I needed a new mattress. I'll eat as well as I can, but I'm not asking for more diarrhea."

04/01/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi, Intractable diarrhea may be from a B12/Folate deficiency."

04/01/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Tamara; I agree that there can be various ways to have success with the use of a supplement; dosage amount, timing of dosage, etc.

Another possibility is that certain co-factor nutrients may be needed to allow the vitamin to be available to the cells.

For instance, from what I've learned from reading on the Vitamin D Council website: Zinc, Magnesium, Vitamin K2, and Boron are needed for vitamin D absorption. Zinc helps to prime vitamin D receptors."

04/01/2013: Megan from St Louis, Missouri: "I would try ear plugs. My husband snores and I am a very light sleeper. They are a life saver!"

04/01/2013: Liz from Torrance, California: "Sorry you are experiencing insomnia. I have it occasionally and have found a few things that help.

Adrenals: I would start by finding out from a naturopath if your adrenals are overtaxed. You might have adrenal exhaustion and could benefit from some adrenal support supplements.

Exercising: Do you exercise? What time of the day do you exercise? This too may play into night time insomnia. Exercising earlier in the day is always better. If you don't get enough exercise, that too might exacerbate insomnia."

04/02/2013: Trudyg from Waynesboro, Va: "Thanks for all the suggestions. I read Ted's comments and am going to try the B3 (niacinamide) and B12. Those are 2 I haven't supplemented because I thought I was getting enough from food. Yes, I do exercise--I run/walk between 1-2 miles/day on the treadmill first thing in the morning, then I do QiGong around 3 in the afternoon. I stand rather than sit, walk every chance I get while at work. Weekends I clear land (very hilly) at our farm, set fenceposts, garden, yardwork, etc. I think the activity level is good. I get migraines from melatonin, so when I take it I keep it to no more than 1 mg. Calms Forte + 1 mg melatonin will work 1 day out of 4, typically. If I didn't have to work I would just nap as needed and not worry about it."

04/02/2013: Tina from Houston, Usa: "Please google Min-tran. It is a natural, food based product that helps with sleep issues. I have in the past taken 4-6 an hour before bed, and it knocks me off. It works with the para-sympathic side of the nervous system and brings the body to balance.

Also 'natural calm' magnesium powder that dissolves in warm water, a few hours before bed is excellent in resolving incomnia issues.

Good luck!"

05/13/2013: Trudyg from Xxx, Yyy: "It's me again, the chronic insomniac. I tried the molasses in sleep time tea--boy, did I get diarrhea! Only did 1 tsp, not a tbs. Mg loosens the bowels, with ibs-d I get it very fast and then it won't stop. If I take calcium in the correct ratio w/ mg it's bad, calcium alone helps slow it down. Big issue is the sleep. A post said taurine + l-glutamate + theanine. For me, did nothing. I added 5-htp to that mix, still nothing. Finally took 1 mg melatonin, would have slept but for the vomiting due to melatonin induced migraine. HELP! In spite of all this, I am healthy--exercise daily, garden, work, eat well. What am I doing wrong? My mind chatters all night long, if I fall asleep I awake with a jolt. Thanks for listening."

05/13/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "just out of curiosity... What about a baking soda bath or a baking soda with vinegar bath.... Maybe 1/4 cup of each.... then rinse it off, just in case. How do you drink your water? How much, when.. ? I use to drink a lot of water but until I followed the procedure in the watercure site it wasn't helping me. I'm so sorry you are suffering ... Love, Joy"

05/13/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "Niacinamide stops the chatter of the mind but take it with other B's they work together... It also helps sleep. First time I took it my mind went blank, freaked me out."

05/13/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I went back to the insomnia page and read all your post... I'm sorry you are sufferring.

I went to a few google sites and looked around also.

This is just a stab in the dark.... I care. The fact that your grow your own greens and eat lots of them, means you probably get a whole lotta magnesium from them so when you take the mag you get the IBS. The fact that you get a lot of mag from your plants means you might be out of balance somewhere in your minerals. I read that ZINC aids in 300 enzyme functions and helps IBS D sufferers because of the digestion enzyme functions it helps.

They talked about water use at the bottom of the page....

Your diarrhea which I had myself from C diff for 6 months, is scary and stealing your minerals and possible other nutrients.... the chia seeds are suppose to help the IBS D and one site says they are safe to use for 12 wks.

LAST IDEA ... Get a hair analysis and see if there is a mineral out of balance causing the diarrhea because you eat minerals but too much of one would cause the dumping syndrome. As if you ate a poison

May you find you sleep like a baby, .... You'll be in my prayes... Love, JOY"

05/13/2013: Trudyg : "I put 2 tbs acv+squirt of honey + 'fingertip' of borax in a 16 oz bottle, top off with water and sip it till lunch, then do another for afternoon till suppertime. I pee all the time, so can't do more than that. Usually an herbal tea (peppermint) in the evening around 6:30. Haven't heard of the water cure, so please clue me in. Also, I didn't think baking soda or vinegar would penetrate skin so haven't tried them in a bath, at least not since the last uti or skin issue years ago. Thanks."

05/13/2013: Trudyg : "Take it at bedtime or earlier in the day?"

05/13/2013: Joy from Battleground , Wash : "Try coconut meat for diarrhea. On one site, coconut macaroon cookies stopped a lot of people's diarrhea, calmed down their intestinal tract. My book says coconut heals teeth to rectum, you may sleep better if bowels were calm. Coconut milk can cause the runs in some people but coconut oil is very healthy and so is the meat but the meat makes me gain weight. Coconut is anti bacterial, anti microbial, anti fungal, anti viral, and kills parasites ...

Been thinking about you all day looking at sites that might help .... Love, Joy

Also just for info...1/4 tsp baking soda in water may make you neutral so you can rest not reacting to anything ... Your environment may be upsetting you, put baking soda on rug or in a bowl near the bed to clean the air.

I worked in an allergy clinic and was also a patient there and one lady went asthma and fell to the floor gasping while I put balm on my lip.... I freaked but she was actually reacting to the lady that just came in the door with hairspray on. Your immune system may need help."

05/13/2013: Joy from Battleground , Wash: "Niacinamide can cause flushing(red tinging on face) make sure it's in a low dose B- complex and take half pill --not a whole pill, OR get a liquid and start on a very small dose, you don't need to suffer anymore. If it feels overwhelming take 1/4 tsp. to 1/2 tsp. baking soda in water and put a stop to it. Smallest amount that helps."

05/14/2013: Trudyg : "I've been using coconut oil for years now, so I guess that's good. Had been supplementing vit D but levels went kind of high (don't remember what it was) & dr said to back off. That was the first thing I tried for the insomnia, never noticed it to help. Wouldn't hurt to start it again, maybe not so high a dose. Funny, but I get really bad migraines from the air freshener a coworker loves to spray, so I know allergies are in there somewhere. Thanks."

05/14/2013: Trudyg from Xxx, Yyy: "I forgot to mention earlier, I had been taking the baking soda daily, too, but quit because my bp went up. I can do it again, it was high for me and I'm always a bit low. Thanks. Isn't it amazing how our foods affect us? Wow."

05/15/2013: Trudyg from Xxx, Yyy: "I am taking a b-complex (only for about a week now), had been taking a b12 in the morning and B3 at night, but then I read that it can prevent sleep so I stopped all but the complex. Should I stop the complex and take only b3, when? in the evening? or some other combo. I did the 12 & 3 b/c of a Ted post. Will start the baking soda today. Thanks."

05/15/2013: Kelly from Cambridge, Ma: "Joy, niacinamide does not cause flushing, niacin does. In fact, niacinamide is what's recommended for those who want the benefits of niacin, without the flush."

05/15/2013: Trudyg : "Just grabbing at straws here, but I have a lot of the symptoms for hypoglycemia, too. Just wondering. My a1c level was great, so I've been tested. I pee all the time, often needing to go within an hour of my last trip to the br. I am always thirsty. I get shaky if I wait too long to eat, then I grab a sweet. Sometimes I slur my speech (thought it was due to stuttering as a child), I get uncoordinated (call me graceful). Thoughts? What should I do that I'm not already doing? ( I know, I should stop whining)."

05/15/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "The squeeky wheel gets the oil. Try the water cure for two weeks, and if you do the supplemental --B's start very low dose mornings.

If you pee all the time (losing minerals and nutrients) ...... Your body is dropping either sugar or something is amiss with your diet, could be as simple as your mint, or anything you put in your water. I lived by a mint field and my friend lived there and her son got poisoned by the soil that affected their water well. He had to detox. There is one other thing that would cause constant peeing is food dye or bad fats or something your body is dumping like your bowel symptom. So 2 +2 here is you are dumping bladder and bowel.

One last thing might be imbalance in microbes in bowel and bladder maybe enzymes and probiotics and possible parasite.. Or ph is off... just wild guesses here.

Baking soda in bowl on desk at work to counteract coworkers sprayng chemicals.

Don't take D if you are high D and don't take baking soda if your BP is high."

05/15/2013: Mama To Many from Middle, Tennessee, Usa: "Trudy, I went through something very similar a few years ago. I was sure I was diabetic as I had had trouble with hypoglycemia since I was 15. (I am 46 now. ) My sleep was poor, I couldn't quench my thirst no matter how much water I drank, and of course, I was in the bathroom all the time from all that water. I was getting sores in my mouth, too. I went to the Dr. to get my blood sugar checked first thing in the morning when I finally put 2 + 2 together. But my sugar was okay! (Guess my math was wrong! ) He said, "Oh, it is probably your thyroid. " Sure enough, blood tests indicated hypothyroidism. I suppose this shouldn't have been too surprising as I have had low basal body temperature (as low as 96.3 upon rising for years. I figured I was subclinical hypothyroid and never did anything about. ) The doctor put me on a low dose of synthroid, 50mcg, which did help the symptoms I had been dealing with, but my hair started falling out and I felt terrible. I sat around feeling terrible most of the time. (Doctor said the synthroid was not causing this, but I didn't believe him. ) I didn't think I had any options but started to research and found that I did have options! I quit taking the synthroid after 3 months. I started to do everything I could find to help my thyroid naturally. I took extra virgin coconut oil 1-2 T. daily. I drank Apple Cider Vinegar daily (at least 2 T. per day in water; I spread mine throughout the day. ) I took 12.5 mcg iodine/iodide daily. Meanwhile, I got pregnant. I had the midwife check my thyroid. It was still not in the right range, but I didn't go back on prescription meds. I felt pretty good with what I was doing. I had a normal pregnancy and a healthy full-term baby. I was afraid to fool with the iodine much while pregnant. After I had the baby, I upped my dose to 25mcg daily. (In the am. ) At some point after the birth, the midwife checked my thyroid again and it was in the normal range! (And I had been promised by the doctors that prescription meds were my ONLY option! ) Iodine was what doctors used to use to treat hypothyroid.

So, you could have your thyroid checked or try taking your early morning temp (before getting out of bed, eating, drinking etc. ) If it is low, you can be pretty sure it is hypothyroidism. Research your alternatives.

Hope you get some relief and answers soon. ~Mama to Many~"

05/16/2013: Trudyg : "Sorry, I should have looked it up, but what is the water cure? I eat only foods I prepare myself, no additives or dyes. The only place I would get those are my supplements, so I'll look at that. The only fats are from coconut, grapeseed oil, or avocado. I had my thyroid checked (runs in the family) and it was okay but I may add iodine at very small doses to see if I feel better. Thanks."

05/16/2013: Trudyg : "I've had my thyroid checked, it appears ok. I know from family experience that the numbers can be okay but you can not be okay. I have some potassium iodide drops, says 2/day. Should I start those and see how I feel? How long before I notice a difference do you think? My sleep has never been good, but since I quit hrt after my hysterectomy it's been terrible. I've got the hot flashes under control (not gone, but bearable). I thank God for the help you all are giving me. I'm really at my wits end."

05/16/2013: Robyn from Asheville, Nc: "Hi TrudyG, I was wondering the same thing. If you go to the watercure site, it's basically an advertisement to buy the book (Earth Clinic, doesn't this go against your policy about not posting links to commercial sites?). A little digging on the web and I learned that you should drink water a half hour before and after eating. You should also take 1/4 teaspoon of salt (sea salt) per quart of water. Or drink this every few glasses of water."

05/15/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I seem to be the one percent that have the side effects that most don't... With supplements, medicines and with topicals.... Since childhood when I start a new supplement I take half a pill every other day or can't sleep. Makeup is suppose to make a person look better , well for me... It does strange things that are not good. They give me something to calm me down and revs me up, and gives me panics. I eat sugar and no crash, just moving right along."

05/16/2013: Trudyg from Xxx, Yyy: "I did some looking and saw that, too. You divide your weight by 2 and drink that many ounces of water/day, adding sea salt every couple of glasses-worth. I'd be peeing all day if I did that! I must say, though, when I drink water w/ acv, I need to go less often. I drink 1 cup of coffee first thing in the morning, then only water until evening, then a cup of herbal tea. I push the fluids and rarely feel thirsty. I do agree that we could all benefit by increasing our water intake, but by how much is really the question."

05/16/2013: Trudyg : "I get weird reactions, too. When they give me narcotics (you'll sleep! ) ha--not me, I'm bouncing off the wall. Half an aspirin is plenty for me, so I start out low dose, too. I'm post-menopausal, so get hot flashes and couldn't tell you if it's due to a supplement or not. I take evening primrose oil for that, and have added vit e (200/cap X 2/d, don't know if mg or iu). I think most drs either don't know and don't want to say so or think that women are weak complainers, so they don't take us seriously."

05/16/2013: Mama To Many from Middle, Tennessee, Usa: "Trudy, If the iodine drops say 2 per day, you could start with that. Does it say how much iodine you are getting? All drops do not have the same amount. I compared using iodine drops to what I take orally and I would have to take 20 drops a day to get what I am getting in pills. (And I don't like the taste of iodine in my water.) Anyway, start with 2 drops a day for a few days. Then do a skin test--drop a few drops onto your skin (I do inside my forearm. ) If it is gone in a short time, you are still iodine deficient. If you can still see it after 12 hours, you are getting enough. (Some say you should be able to see it after 24 hours. Broda Barnes has a book on Thyroid that explains it all but I haven't read it. ) If I can see the iodine spot on my arm after 6-8 hours, I think I am doing pretty well. (I really can't bear to take more iodine than I take. It just seems like too much to me.) I know my thyroid was low LONG before it showed up on a blood test. If you take your early morning, before rising temperature and it is low (Some would say anything under 98.0 is low... But I am not sure. Under 97.0 is definitely low.) My naturopathic doctor says you should not use a digital and you should keep it in your armpit for a full 10 minutes.

Anyway, you can increase the amount of iodine by a couple of drops if the iodine on your skin disappears quickly and continue to check on your skin and increase by a couple of drops etc. Until the iodine isn't absorbing quickly. Or, if you notice improvement, you could stop when that happens.

I can't recall how long it took for the iodine to provide me with noticeable difference. It was perhaps days or a week or two. But if I run out my symptoms come back pretty fast - mabye in a day or two.

You are dealing with lots of health challenges... So sorry! With the IBS are you possibly losing nutrients you need, causing health challenges? Comfrey is wonderful for this. In her book, Be your Own Doctor, Rachel Weaver says to use comfrey root powder and slippery elm powder to help and heal this. Both are soothing to the digestive tract and very nutritious. She has you mix them together with water to a dough like consistency and then make little pea size balls you can take throughout the day when symptoms flare up. Comfrey leaves can also be mixed with other soothing and nutritive herbs (like Red Raspberry) and made into a tea that will provide extra nutrients. I didn't use to think herbal tea would do much, but I have had some amazing help from them this year and have changed my mind. Activated charcoal is also a great thing for digestive difficulty and helps detox as well (but very gently. ) Just don't take it near time of other supplements as it adsorbs toxins and may also do the same with nutrients. (I take it leaving a 2 hour window. ) You can mix 1 t. In water or take tablets or capsules. Just a couple of more things to consider... Hope it isn't too overwhelming... Praying for relief for you."

05/16/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "Earth Clinic has a water cure section with Ted commenting on Dr. Batmanghelidj.. I'm not selling books. All these lovely people here on earth clinic are sharing what helps them and I am doing the same thing, hoping it helps alleviate someone of their sufferring. Love, Joy"

05/18/2013: Om from Hope, B.c., Canada: "About Dr Batmanghelidj's Water Cure: This man was a humanitarian who was ignored by the present medical system. He has helped innumerable people back to health. If people drink water without supplementing with, for example, celtic salt, they will urinate, dehydrating themselves as well as loosing vitamins and minerals. It was the chemically manufactured salt that wreaked havoc with the world's population and caused an explosion of serious diseases that killed many. Because allopaths have no training in nutrition they misguide patients to their detriment.

I have just begun slowly and do not run to the bathroom because of the water drinking. The protocol is easy and must be followed meticulously. Get off to a slow start. Already I have noted the effect of water doing its work in the entire body. I hope this will, in addition of magnesium, cure my insomnia. It is nature, not drugs that will do it. I am thankfull toward the good doctor and think it would be of benefit to read his by now famous book, even though just doing the program would be alright So many people have been helped including pets. To be rightly informed is self empowerment. Be leery of the common table salt, but natural wet salts are delicious, provide much needed minerals and prevent the continuous problem of over urination. We are made mainly of water, so is the planet with vast resources of salt water. Sometimes I think that the intake of chemical and denatured salt over a life time could be a contributory factor of Alzheimers as our brain, too, is made up largely of water. We are all keen on learning how to get in touch and back to nature and with determination success will be ours. Love, Om"

05/18/2013: Lauren from Queens, Ny: "Om can you tell me if everytime you drink water you have to add the salt? Thanks..."

05/18/2013: Mike Giller from Denver, Colorado: "add 1 gram of wind and sun dried sea salt $1.70 for 24 oz at whole foods and 1 gram of dead sea salt $20 for a 4 lb pail at whole foods per quart of water."

05/18/2013: Om from Hope, B.c., Canada: "Lauren, just type in "water cure 2" and you will find the protocol. It is quite easy to follow. I found that indeed one only needs to pee every 2 or 3 hours when the salt is taken on the tongue but not in the water. If not, there is more instructions which are simple for everyone. You will benefit greatly. Good luck, Om"

05/19/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "Hi, You drink the water(1-2cups) half an hour before you eat a meal to prepare the stomach lining to drop the acid and enzymes to break down the food and have the water to mix with the bola in the intestines to prevent constipation. Also you add the salt to your food if you are not already eating plenty in the form of iodized sea salt. Too much water without salt and you pee too often... Too much salt and you get bloated.... You also have to start this slowly or you are not going to feel well. It can take up to two weeks to rehydrate a body properly.

Histamine is a dehydration signal. Whenever you get your water/salt/potassium/calcium/magnesium and other minerals out of balance your body shoots out some histamine and the histamine causes reactions to food, air, water, cloth, chemicals, cleaning products. and makes you feel ill."

05/20/2013: Kt from The Usa: "What time do you eat your last meal of the day? I try to have dinner at five and don't eat anything after six."

EC: Hi John, is the apple cider vinegar helping? Thanks.

[BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  01/12/2010: John from Phoenixville, Pa, Usa: "My combination of treatments helps, but does not cure. One thing I've added to my regime is castille soap when I shower. I think it helps. I am also contemplating oil pulling."

05/20/2013: Spots from Honolulu, Hawaii: "I apply the ACV at the beginning of every shower. Then scrub with Dr. B's 18-in-one oil soap. After showering, I apply at least a tablespoon of CO onto my skin. So far, it has been two weeks and the results are good. The tinea versicolor is starting to fade. Hasn't completely disappeared. Patience is key. As well as less sun exposure. Thanks for sharing your solution. Good luck to next readers!!"

07/18/2009: Rui from Lisbon, Portugal: "Thats pretty sad, it seems you got an overload of juice, as you said, its 1 to 2 oz per day, maybe a bit more, but surelly not 16oz per day... I'm sad to hear that, but perhaps you can try the juice again at 1ox and see the diferrence, perhaps even it can cure your condition at therapeutic dossage..."

10/05/2009: Barbie from Manila, Philippines: "HI, I have had GERD for about 9years and spent a lot of money in the hospital, underwent laboratory rocedures, medcations, water theraphy for years as well as taking leafy vegestables for 1 year. I also had chronic bad breath for about 11 years now. these two things made my social life miserable. Till my faith of continue taking natural remedy to cure the GERD. First, I'd like to explain how patients experience the food from the stomach rise up to the esophagus (reflux) and the abdominal pain whenever we eat or hungry is simply because when the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't function properly, acid and food can reflux up from the stomach into the esophagus. This can lead to pain (heartburn) and damage to the lower esophagus. This damage can cause strictures (narrowing) of the esophagus, and eventually, cancer of the esophagus. Frequently, dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter is associated with a hiatal hernia, in which the lower esophagus and upper part of the stomach slips up into the chest. I TRIED TAKING OATMEAL AS HOT BEVERAGE AND GRADUALLY IT HEALED MY GERD. I STARTED TAKING OATMEAL WITHOUT SUGAR AND FLAVOR FOR YEARS, AND NOW, I'M FREE OF GERD. I CAN EAT WHATEVER I WANT. At first those who suffer from GERD MUST AVOID ALL TOMATO BASE FOODS, OILY, MILK, COFFE, JUICES AND OTHER DAIRY PRODUCTS becaue it trigger the feeling of bloatedness, and the food are unable to dissolve within 3hours. Foods must be dissolve from the stomach within 1 hour and goes down to the small intestine for another routine. i just wnat to share this. i hope this will help to those who have GERD. I'm now free from GERD but still on battling my chronic bb and the problem is within my tongue...I hope I could find remedy to it. thanks"

01/25/2010: Raf from Makati, Philippines: "Hi Ms. Barbie, i was diagnosed last week with sliding hiatal hernia but i am suffering for almost 4 months from acid reflux. I lost almost 45 lbs during this period. I am very desperate to cure this disease for i might loss my job in if im not well within 2 mos. I will try your suggestions and pray it works.. God Bless..."

08/14/2011: Mooniize77 from Lake Tahoe, Ca: "all of you with gerd, hiatal hernias and indigestion need to start out with one oz of fresh squeezed wheat grass. Read up on what good wheat grass should look like and go to your local smootie shops to look for it. I gaurantee it will heal all of these complaints. You must however cut out all the acid junk from your diet. Look up an alkaline diet. I've studied these topics for years and years. I had all these above mentioned problems and cured them all. The only issue is when you go on a healthier alkaline diet and add one oz of wheat grass at least five times a week, you will start to detox. Stick with it. It will change your life. You may find it unpleasant or burp it up at first.. But take it on an empty stomache earlier in the day when ur up and about.. Eat about hour n half after. Within two weeks you wont feel your gerd, or indigestion as long as you adhear to a better diet cutting out all the acid foods. Look up acid alkaline charts. Change your life! You can do it! It will work!!"

11/26/2012: Sam from Thessalon, On: "Kombucha tea took my heartburn away. Easy to brew at home too."

05/20/2013: Donna Kay from Kansas City, Missouri: "To Barbie: Even natural supplements need to be taken according to directions. I also had beginning stage of GERD & HAD ulcers until I started taking 4 Apple Cider Vinegar tablet a day. It also cured my severe constipation. I just started the Noni juice & hope it boosts my immune system."

05/14/2013: Mt from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: "When the blood is to thick it is very hard to collect it. You can thin the blood by drinking more water and by eating each day a clove of garlic. On earth clinic you can find a recipe for blocked blood vessels, based on lemon, garlic and honey, that will also help with the blood thinning.

Swedish bitter is helping with digestion -it improves liver and pancreas function.

For all the pain symptoms you have to consider Lyme disease.

I also recommend to read the book by Maria Treben, Health through God's Pharmacy. Look into stinging nettle, yarrow, calendula and horse tail tees."

05/15/2013: Connie from Slc, Utah, Usa: "Hi Mark; I commend your caring efforts to help your wife. The symptoms you've listed do pertain to B12 deficiency, and it's possible that the brand and type you are using may not be effective.

Early last year, jarrow changed its formula, and it became much less effective. Some of us contacted them because we noticed the problem together. Unfortunately, there are other brands of B12 sublinguals that seem to be less effective. ( I've had this same problem-many symptoms returned .)

Here is a link to a website devoted to treating the condition of ME/CFS: http://forums.phoenixrising.me/index.php?find-new/6570495/threads

There are many treatments discussed on this site, including B12. Some people respond to certain brands of sublinguals, others do not. Some people have resorted to injections, because they don't feel anything from sublinguals, etc.

Another site to visit is the Pernicious Anaemia Society. Org, or b12d. Org. Many folks with PA, or B12 deficiency will also be deficient in Folate and Iron. (It would be a good idea to have folate and ferritin levels checked in case.) Not everyone with B12 deficiency will have the same, but some testing is recommended. Other B vitamins may be needed, so, a B complex is recommended. Starting with a low dose is a good idea, then see if extra individual B's are needed.

It's true that co-morbid conditions may exist with B12 deficiency, often times stomach acid is low, so digestion/absorption is weak. Many people here are helped by taking Apple Cider Vinegar, or lemon juice to aid digestion. Some people are taking hydrochloric acid supplements.

When taking measures to increase stomach acid, one may also need to strengthen the stomach lining and tissues to protect them from damage. Amino acids, such as proline, glycine, etc, are needed for this. Bone broth is a good gelatinous food to strengthen collagen, helping the gut.

When digestion is weak, minerals may also not be absorbed well. ( vegetarians may be low in zinc, but there could be other low minerals.)

It's also true that B12 deficiency can be from a lack of transport proteins, in addition to malabsorption. Transcobalamin deficiency may be the cause. It is treated with very high dosages of B12, until symptoms resolve. The B12 serum test does not indicate a good status in these people. They must rely on how they feel. The practitioner must be amenable to this type of treatment.

BTW, it may also be helpful to check for low thyroid function, it's another condition that accompanies B12 deficiency."

05/15/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I have experienced many of your wife's symptoms and the only things that work for me are the B-12 patches. At first try I had to really load up on them daily and take over the recommended amount. I would wake up in pain and numbness every morning until I got started with the patches. It took less than a week for me to see results. I still have some numbness in fingers on right hand but it is mild compared to what it was. I have tried the under the tongue pills and shots that were expensive but had no results. My doctor said my B-12 was in range and I had no problems but the only peace that I got from pain and fear that I was going blind was the B-12 patches."

05/20/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Dayton Ohio: Just wondering if there was a particular brand of patch that worked best for you, there are so many to choose from and we don't want to be starting all over again."

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I get my B12 patches here- http://www.drdavidshealth.com/b-12-mega-patches/#.UZptkthhphA"

05/20/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark, I put the link to where I get the patches in another reply. I just wanted to add that I had to put about 4-5 patches on my body before I got relief at first. I must have been severely deficient in B12. It took about a week for me to find the amount that was right for me. I put them on my arm. They will stay on during a shower. I now use about one per week and sometimes two. Whenever I start to feel the tingling in my fingers I know it is time to apply a patch. I pray that your wife will have good results like I did. They will work, tell her not to give up."

05/21/2013: Mark from Newton Abbot, Devon Uk: "Tinydancer from Ohio: Thanks for the link to the patches, I wanted to check really as my wife is already using these, she's has been on them for around 4 weeks or so but I will suggest she ups the amount she uses, thanks again for the tip."

05/21/2013: Tinydancer from Dayton, Ohio, Usa: "Mark,

You are welcome. Tell me, is your wife using the highest strength patch. (5000 mcg) Make sure she is. I started out using the 1000 mcg and it went nowhere. Before I gave up I tried the 5000 and it made all the difference in the world. Tell her I have felt her pain and to not give up. Has she read the book "Could it be B12" by Sally Pacholok? It might interest her. God Bless!"

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "Hello Sanai, please try 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 ounce of apple cidar vinegar, and when done foaming, add about 10 oz of water. Do this two to three times each day until relief is found. My husband gets gout, and this is what we do.... If caught early, this will really, really cut you recovery time. If not caught early, it still helps a LOT. If you do not have apple cider vinegar where you are.... I do believe that the baking soda alone in water will help also. Good luck to you."

05/20/2013: Megzwakefield from Miami, Florida, Usa: "Hello Sanai. Hope you can give us the latest update also. I'm sure many would want to know the details, as well, what are the steps that you have undertaken in your part. Cheers."

05/19/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Saba: when you see eye flashes you should RUN to the doctor! It may be nothing but it may be something very serious and you MUST catch it early."

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "This is one of the rare times I am going to say this.... You need to see an eye doctor. Right away. As in first thing in the morning. You could have something very serious going on that could cause blindness. I am not trying to scare you, but please.... Go. Good luck, and please keep us posted."

05/19/2013: Saba from Mentor, Oh: "OK thanks I will do that. Scary!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I got these once in the shape of a football that got larger and larger until I couldn't see at all... For about half an hour , then I was fine and went to the eye doc. He asked if I had a pounding headache. I said no, he said lucky you, it was a migraine. My friend gets them and loses her sight all the time, for more than an hour at a time. Maybe low magnesium. I had this over ten years ago, only one!"

05/20/2013: Art from Vancover, Bc. Canada: "I used to get them to as well as a pressure feeling in my left eye. I then discovered B12 5,000 mcg sublingual did the trick. I also take a B12 1,000 mcg time released with my other vitamins. There is no toxicity as you pee out what you don't need. It also helps with neuropathy. Art."

03/14/2013: Juliette from Reston, Va: "I've suffered from insomnia on and off and its soo debilitating and I really feel for you!!!

First off, diet is important... Sugary starchy foods in my experience make it harder for me to sleep. Up your veggies!

You might wanna look into amino acids 5htp and GABA... If your still on any psych meds this may not be your best bet though. But research them and make sure you take them at the right times through out the day. for 5htp late afternoon and before bed is best and GABA you wanna just take before bed because it reallyyyy chills you out.

I see your constipated so you should look into getting some magnesium citrate in powder form... itll relax you AND help you poop.

There's this cream called adrena calm thats really amazing you just rub it on your feet at night and instantly you feel better I know were not supossed to hock products but this reallyyyyy works for me. they sell it on amazon.

Since you've been on meds for a while your liver might be over taxed... that's been the case with me in the past and when I take better care of my liver (milk thistle supplements) I notice a difference in my sleeping and my energy.

Also finding a connection to a higher power of some sort has been a great comfort to me. Be it universal energy, God, Allah, Buddha, Mary, you angels or spirit guides... Sometimes we need to reach out to a power greater than ourselves to restore our lives to balance and peace. Prayer and meditation are very important tools in my life. Sometimes just starting simple and just saying help me!! There is help and comfort there :)

Try to take it easy the more we stress out about the insomnia the worse it gets. just take a deep breathe and let yourself be guided to the solution.

Sending you good vibes!!"

03/16/2013: Dawn from Alberta, Canada: "Paula, I am sorry to hear how you are suffering. I too suffered years from insomnia and constipation. Since I have started taking probiotic yogurt and Kefir, my constipation is completely cured. Now I have bowel movement everyday. You can buy Kefir at the store, after that make your own with couple of spoons of the store bought Kefir. That will save u money. If you are lactose intolerant, you can make resuvelac at home, just google resuvelac. I also take magnesium at bed time everyday. I sleep pretty good now. I hope this will help you. Good Luck!!!!"

04/03/2013: Kathy from the USA: "Hi Paula, Sounds like you are having reactions to the binders and fillers in your vitamins/supplements. The binders and fillers are more than likely made from plants. It is reported that our food is being engineered to last longer so it has become harder to digest. These genetically engineered plants have to be considered starch. This is noted from MY EXPERIENCE with what has happened to our food. Even the critters we eat or get milk and eggs from are being fed grains and grasses that are difficult for them to digest. I get the 2% milk IN GLASS and sometimes dilute that with a little water. Warm milk before bed helps me sleep. Skimmed milk is bad because, by law, vitamins have to be added and they can cause more problems. I would try to lay off the supplements for awhile because it will take a long time to get out of your system."

05/13/2013: Kathi from New Brunswick, Nj: "Your symptoms seem similar to what I was experiencing a few years ago, please have a look at:

http://www.earthclinic.com/Supplements/vitamin_d2.html#RF_22255

Additional helpful things: vitamin D supplementation, going gluten free. The cognitive behavioral therapist emphasized going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, getting light exposure during the day."

05/19/2013: Precisely. from Mineral Hill, New Mexico, Usa: "Hi Paula,

Just wanted to add my favorite cramping remedy: Co-Q10. One capsule daily seems to stop all cramping, within an hour or less, from when taken. I happen to like one brand, Qunol Ultra CoQ10, best. It's very effective, works fast, and isn't expensive compared to most CoQ10 available (sorry to mention a Brand but it's a totally better product IMHO). Hoping you are already experiencing relief!"

05/19/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Saba: when you see eye flashes you should RUN to the doctor! It may be nothing but it may be something very serious and you MUST catch it early."

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "This is one of the rare times I am going to say this.... You need to see an eye doctor. Right away. As in first thing in the morning. You could have something very serious going on that could cause blindness. I am not trying to scare you, but please.... Go. Good luck, and please keep us posted."

05/19/2013: Saba from Mentor, Oh: "OK thanks I will do that. Scary!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I got these once in the shape of a football that got larger and larger until I couldn't see at all... For about half an hour , then I was fine and went to the eye doc. He asked if I had a pounding headache. I said no, he said lucky you, it was a migraine. My friend gets them and loses her sight all the time, for more than an hour at a time. Maybe low magnesium. I had this over ten years ago, only one!"

05/20/2013: Art from Vancover, Bc. Canada: "I used to get them to as well as a pressure feeling in my left eye. I then discovered B12 5,000 mcg sublingual did the trick. I also take a B12 1,000 mcg time released with my other vitamins. There is no toxicity as you pee out what you don't need. It also helps with neuropathy. Art."

EC: Dear Precisely, we have cross-posted this feedback to the borax page under the table of contents title "Borax Dosages". Thank you!

[BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  05/19/2013: Ginger from Champaign, Illinois, Usa: "I also stumbled upon this cure. I had been taking a triple probiotics capsule every day to fight the fungal infection from the inside out. One day I broke open a capsule and brushed the contents directly on my infected nails. It worked! I have been doing it every day for a few weeks and my nails haven't looked this good in 2 years. I had tried dozens of treatments, including going to a podiatrist, and nothing else worked."

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "Hello Sanai, please try 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 ounce of apple cidar vinegar, and when done foaming, add about 10 oz of water. Do this two to three times each day until relief is found. My husband gets gout, and this is what we do.... If caught early, this will really, really cut you recovery time. If not caught early, it still helps a LOT. If you do not have apple cider vinegar where you are.... I do believe that the baking soda alone in water will help also. Good luck to you."

05/20/2013: Megzwakefield from Miami, Florida, Usa: "Hello Sanai. Hope you can give us the latest update also. I'm sure many would want to know the details, as well, what are the steps that you have undertaken in your part. Cheers."

05/19/2013: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe: "Saba: when you see eye flashes you should RUN to the doctor! It may be nothing but it may be something very serious and you MUST catch it early."

05/19/2013: Carly from Wa, Usa: "This is one of the rare times I am going to say this.... You need to see an eye doctor. Right away. As in first thing in the morning. You could have something very serious going on that could cause blindness. I am not trying to scare you, but please.... Go. Good luck, and please keep us posted."

05/19/2013: Saba from Mentor, Oh: "OK thanks I will do that. Scary!"

05/20/2013: Joy from Battleground, Wash: "I got these once in the shape of a football that got larger and larger until I couldn't see at all... For about half an hour , then I was fine and went to the eye doc. He asked if I had a pounding headache. I said no, he said lucky you, it was a migraine. My friend gets them and loses her sight all the time, for more than an hour at a time. Maybe low magnesium. I had this over ten years ago, only one!"

05/20/2013: Art from Vancover, Bc. Canada: "I used to get them to as well as a pressure feeling in my left eye. I then discovered B12 5,000 mcg sublingual did the trick. I also take a B12 1,000 mcg time released with my other vitamins. There is no toxicity as you pee out what you don't need. It also helps with neuropathy. Art."

11/10/2011: Molly from Qualicum, Bc Canada: "Could the patient be given activated charcoal or what about diatamacious earth? Get a naturopath's help ASAP! Plus fresh vegetables juice only - no hospital food??"

11/10/2011: Ted from Bangkok, Thailand: "Get clove oil spray 5% the other 95% is alcohol, or similar. Spray the body with this, legs etc. Give colloidal silver 1 teaspoon every hour. Give hydrogen peroxide 3% one cap to two capful of per liter of water, and give 1/2 glass every hour. After 6th dose most of septicemia will be under control.

You can give any hydrogen peroxide 3% in this dire emergency, such as pharmacy grade. Aspirin is usually good choice also it digests these septicemia.

If fever does not reduce by 3 hours, I will be forced to give 500 mg of aspirin every hour for 4 hours. It works like antibiotics by digestion. The other is lysine every hour for four hours also. These can be given at the same time. So one can do all of it -- h2o2, aspirin, lysine, and clove -- if you want.

Ted"

11/10/2011: Oscar from Syracuse, New York, Usa: "Well, you are asking for last ditch efforts. IF SEPTICEMIA is a virus that has a coating that contains lipids BHT [ butylated hydroxytoluene ] MIGHT help. This BHT has proven to be a compound that in some way has a profound effect in destroying such viruses. The only website I found that discusses this virus`s structure is NOT clear about whether it is such a virus or not. Here is that website. It seems to say it is :http://books.google.com/books?id=3WvYMKmIvY8C&pg=PA625&lpg=PA625&dq=is septicemia a lipid coated virus&source=bl&ots=mYe

BHT MIGHT help. I do NOT know....Oscar"

11/11/2011: Kumrao from Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India: "Holistic healing method can work for your trouble.. It may take 30 to 45 days... I am from India.. You have to avoid milk products, sweets, nonveg, fish, eggs, cashewnuts, almonds,

pulses, alcohols for 45 days.. You should daily eat 30 gms of bittergourd and 20 gms of ginger.. you can eat rice and wheat items of food...kumrao99[at]yahoo.co.in"

05/19/2013: Redcairo from Miami, Ok: "Research on sepsis and other unrelated research on Ascorbic Acid suggests that intravenous vitamin C in very high consistent dose might be the only thing strong enough to battle something like that."

07/09/2010: The Narrow Way from Clarkston, Mi: "Dear Hobart, I read your post on DMSO how when you applied it to your test areas and the skin puckered and felt dry. I have done the same thing on my finger where I have really bad joint pain. It took away the pain but left my finger puckered, pruned and sensitive to touch. Did it go away or is there still damage to the tissue where you applied it? I haven't seen an answer to your post. So I am hoping you can tell me if your skin went back to normal or not. Thank you"

10/06/2010: Tre from Memphis, Tn: "Ok so I decided to try the dmso on my shoulder since the only thing doctors want to do is give me steroid shots. I went to a store and could not find the liquid so I picked up the gel form. I have used it twice with no side effects. Tonight I got out of the shower and applied it to my shoulder. It put a little more on than I have been doing. I let it soak in and noticed it stinking a little. The stinging turned to burning. I went to rinse it off when I noticed that my skin had a ton of little bumps on it. I rinsed it off and applied aloe on the skin. Then burning went away, and the bumps seem to be going away. Am I doing something wrong? has anyone else had this happen? I bought it at a tractor supply company store."

10/23/2010: Water, S-o-t-r from Albuquerque, N.m.: "Whenever using DMSO I always mix it with Rhus Tox ointment (available through any Homeopathic Lab or retail source) to protect against skin reactions which are common with DMSO and which were the excuse used by the Feds to not approve DMSO for human use. This has worked with many dozens of persons and hundreds of applications."

05/19/2013: Redcairo from Miami, Ok: "The way DMSO works means that it is very dehydrating to skin. After you use it, maybe 10 minutes later, put some quality oil on your skin, I use castor oil but it can be anything that is healthy. You'll need this to rehydrate the skin."

05/19/2013: John from Chicago, Il: "Can you tell us what was your kidney condition? How long did it take you to get better? How did you learn about this? God Bless!"

10/03/2009: Merryanne from Orange City, Florida, USA: "To Rachel with the constpated baby: Read the material in EC about magnesium, and you will have to get the baby to drink more fluids, and fruit for fiber, or make your on nutrious smothie and use the flavors the baby likes...I hope this helps. Merryanne"

10/03/2009: Tricia from Ireland: "I first noticed my newborns poop problems in hospital but the nurse told me that she was having a reaction to the baby wipes we were using and to use cotton wool and water. Oh, foolish me. I went home thinking she would be fine. Anyway the problems got worse (is every new mother REALLY that apprehensive as they kept telling us?). All we got was a prescription for permanent laxatives. Eventually a very kind doctor rightly guessed that her back passage was slightly too small for her body. There is no way of testing to prove if he is actually right. This may not be the reason for your child's constipation but his advice at the time was to give her prune juice. Now she was only 10/12 weeks old at this stage so we had to water it down to 1 oz prune juice to 3 oz water and she had to take this in 1 oz lots in between her bottles (my milk didn't kick in). Her feed also has to be changed to a softer formula with pre-biotics added. We learned the hard way that we should have started this early in the morning rather than at night. We walked the floors with her for 12 hours. It took 3 days to work and the first day of pooping was pure liquid and projectile. Oh, and also foul smelling.

By the time she was your baby's age, we administered the prunejuice in 4 oz lots 2 times per day still watered down so that it is only 2 oz of prune juice and there was a BM every day. If we missed one it didn't matter. If we were away and missed 2 it did. When solids were introduced we had to wait longer to introduce proteins and starches. Her diet was mainly fruit and vegetable, no potatoes or rice or meat till much later thn the norm.

We also kept her on her bottles to guarantee her intake of liquids for longer than usual. We had no problems with toilet training.

At the ripe old age of four she has now started school and because the teachers don't check to see if they eating and drinking their lunches and breaks, we are having a few problems again but at least she is old enough to tell us what is happening her or when the pain is building up so that we can do somthing about it.

My main problems with the prune juice were personal. In a babies bottle it looks like coca cola. People would take the bottle away from me and throw it in the bin before I could explain. They were usually interfering busybodies who loved their own voices so much I couldn't get a word in edgeways. Having to get that extra liquid into her made her less hungry so getting enough solids into her to keep her asleep all night took extra time. And travelling abroad we would have to make up extra to drink in front of security at the airports and make sure that we could get the brand that worked for her wherever we were going or bring loads of it with us.

You have my sympathies. Yor post has brought back all my feelings of frustration and I am even shaking as I type this."

10/04/2009: Rachel from Anna, Tx, USA: "To Merryanne and Tricia- Thank you so much for such a quick response and support. I have tried the magnesium citrate and it didnt work. I cant imagine why it didnt. And giving her prune juice didnt either but prune baby food works occasionally if I give her a warm bath right afterward. Which is why I tried so many other things, I also give her water daily. I wondered if she had a milk allergy but the soy milk had no effect on her either. I recently started giving her flaxseed oil in with her milk and this seems to be working, at least for now. Most of what I have tried has come from this site so I thank you EC for having such a wonderful site with so much great information. I am always here looking for natural remedies for all of my family."

10/06/2009: Merryanne from Orange City, Fl: "To Rachel,,, Good luck with the constipation problem,,keep trying different things, different foods, juices, high fiber,,low fiber. But good hydration is essential, and exercise is important, or massage might help,, Merryanne"

01/21/2010: Susan from Ohio, Illinois: "My daughter experienced similar problems. We tried everything the doctors told us to. With no positive results. Several months and several biopseys they recommended surgical modification. I revolted at that idea. We refused to follow this path. My daughter was found later to have dairy allergies. At this time the leche insisted my daughter could not be allergic to breast milk. We switched to soy. Still stooping was painful and impossible. Around this time a complete stranger told me her daughter suffered this way until she put barley cereal into her bottle. Truth be told she started pooping freely. Once the concrete was passed. By this time we had to manually stimulate her movements bc her sphincters were not working properly. To this day we remember how horrible this episode was and thank the good fortune of the barley cereal"

[YEA]  04/24/2011: Hermes from Princeton, Nj: "Hello, dear worried mothers. Have you tried taking your babies to a chiropractor? I did take her when she was 6-month-old after I had tried everything - more liquids, prune juice, thermometer in the rectum, etc. - and just happened to mention of my desperation to the chiropractor I normally see. He did some gentle manipulation of her legs and upper body over a few sessions. The results came in a few days when her bowel movements started to normalize and became more regular. I know that there are plenty of options but if you have tried them all, you may consider this too. It may be a subluxation that is causing it all of a sudden."

08/10/2012: Alt-rocks from Suffolk, United Kingdom: "For constipation in babies: When changing the nappy, push the legs up and down in alternate motions. (Bicycle motion) slowly a few times, then push both legs up towards the tummy, and straighten slowly a few times."

05/19/2013: Cheryl from Utah: "Try miralax mixed with any liquid. It worked for my son. Also, my chiropractor helps a lot of kids/babies with just one painless visit. Find one that uses the Blair technique. (He also cured my migraines)"

06/14/2010: Enrico from White Rock, B.c.: "Hello Emilia.

Can you suggest where I can find Kefir base to make it at home?

Thanks and ciao,
Enrico"

07/10/2010: Sunvarmit from Birmingham, Al: "Kefir is a life changing gift. Please search the Internet carefully and look for someone who will give it to you for only the cost of shipping. Search the Yahoo groups and google it before you "buy" it from someone. I paid a small fee for my first batch, and do not resent it. But it grows so fast and there are sure to be people close enough to most of you that will share. Now that I have been making my own for several years I have shared often. And I wouldn't buy it again. There are many sources for information on the Web. . . Just search it out. My experience is that Kefir assists with numerous ailments from digestion to anxiety. But I believe it needs to be homemade to see the best results."

11/06/2011: Denise from Brookfield, Missouri: "I have an abundance of kefir grains. I'd be happy to share. I live in Missouri. I think I can ship to anywhere in the U.S. in 2 to 3 days for $5. I can ship to Canada in 6 to 10 days for $12, or in 3 to 5 days for $27.

If anybody wants some grains, I'll share them for the cost of shipping. Email me at myemaildt(at)gmail.com."

03/26/2012: Demi from Machester, Uk: "Just a small correction here. Macedonia is in Greece and does not produce any kefir. Do you mean FYROM or Vardaska? For sure you cannot be from Macedonia though, since Macedonia is not a country, it is an area on the north of of Greece"

04/26/2013: Teresa from Surrey, Bc: "I live in Surrey BC, very close to the Emilli who posted that she has a lot of kefir grains and that she would be happy to share. Emilli please respond to this post as I would really love to get my kefir going again. I am also looking for a kambucha scoby/mushroom as I lost mine. Any one that lives in the lower mainland of BC, Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Delta that has extra kefir grains to share please respond. Much Thanks"

05/19/2013: Marlene from Surrey, Bc, Canada: "I have both Kefir grains and Kombucha scobies. I live in Cloverdale, and quite willing to share both."

08/09/2009: Sharon from Wood Dale, Illinois: "Thank You for your ver insightfull and comments that made sense. I am trying everything I can to get out of the depression I have, as you said, and I think, one thing at a time, not everything works for everybody,, great comments...."

[YEA]  05/19/2013: Paul from Saint Louis, Mo: "Acetyl L-Carnitine has changed my life as well. I have suffered from depression since I was a child, have tried every medication out there and nothing seemed to work. Also, I found out I had candida, and everything I have done to bring my GI tract back into balance has helped the depression, OCD, worry, and ADHD. I take probiotics before bed, which has made a huge difference. L-tyrosine has helped me a lot. My biggest help was finding out that I was low in stomach acid. Treating that with Betaine HCL has changed my life and enabled me to actually "absorb" vitamins and nutrients from food that I couldn't before, this has changed my life."

05/19/2013: Lisa from Kutztown, Pa Usa: "After doing some research online, I am 100% sure I had Mono this weekend. Wow! This was the most painful thing I have ever experienced and wish I never get it again! I did not visit the Dr. because I try to deal with medical things naturally. I tried many, many things to relieve my sore throat but the one thing that seemed to help the most was advil. I do know about coconut oil. I started taking it last night but haven't seen an improvement in the sore throat. I will make sure to keep using it though. One drink that worked well for me was honey with lemon water. I only had one lemon so I ended up using the mango/peach homemade vitamin water I had in my frig. I heated that up for about 40mins in the microwave and added honey to it. That worked just as well. I also ended up getting a throat spray from the health food store. Echinacea and Goldenseal Propolis. This seemed to help a little bit. But be warned if you get this... It tastes awful!! Lol It tastes worse than Nyquil and I always thought that stuff was NASTY!! Lol I would use the spray as a last resort. The other things I had been trying were... Salt water rinse, Immune Balance Sinus (nose was a little stuffy-producing post nasal drip), Roxalia for sore throat and hoarseness, sinus relief tincture, nasal wash, peroxide in the ears, Zand's zinc lozengers in orange and elderberry. Also drank throat coat tea with chamomile and elderberry/echinachea tea with honey. Now I am drinking my coconut water to replenish my electrolytes. And I will definitely be taking more of the coconut oil.

For the people who aren't quite sure about the coconut oil- coconut oil is very beneficial. I found an e-book on amazon about the many benefits of coconut oil. I personally use coconut oil to grease my cooking pans. Especially, when I make eggs. You can't even taste it when your food is done. You can brush your teeth with it. You can also rinse your mouth with it after brushing. I read that helps to whiten your teeth. I saw a recipe online to make your own deoderant using coconut oil. I've also been told many times to eat it when I am sick. So it is a very beneficial item! :)

Lastly, I pray that every one of you who has been touched with Mono gets better quickly!! This is one illness that is extremely painful and not fun to have!! Be well all!! :)"

05/18/2013: Rsw from Uniontown, Oh: "Berj, Look into low dose naltrexone at www.ldninfo.org. There are published studies about it's use, with a 67% effective rate for Crohn's and UC. It is FDA approved at 50 mg for addictions, but was found to be very helpful at low doses of 1.5 - 4.5mg for many autoimmune diseases with no side effects except vivid dreams for a week or so in some individuals. Also, although this is difficult to think about at first, there is a woman on this site whose husband had terrible bowel issues and she finally tried a fecal transplant using herself as a donor on the weekend, and he is now completely cured! I have read that this is 100% effective for those with C-diff, too, the theory is that the lack of correct micro organisms in the intestine is causing the problem. Two possible remedies to think about. Good luck, and I hope you feel better soon."

05/18/2013: Om from Hope, Bc, Canada: "Berj, if it was me, I would visit Jim Humble's website as he has a lot of experience with diseases in Africa. He has healed many of malaria and his remedy is MMS. There is help on that site.

I would heal the gut with turmeric, two teaspoons in simple whey powder and water, which also addresses the liver. Ayurvedic Amala powder which is the best vit C can also be taken to body tolerance. Hope you will embark on your tour to good health soon. Best wishes, Om"

05/18/2013: Mike Giller from Denver, Colorado: "The microbes in the digestive system affect the immune system. Good microbes makes a good immune system, bad microbes make a bad immune system. All autoimmune diseases are caused by bad microbes in the digestive system. This is the solution:

Get water kefir grains at amazon $10, put 60 grams of succanet in 1 quart of water not tap water, add the kefir grains and let ferment at room temp away from direct sunlight for 24 hours.

Put 3 and a half cups in the fridge, the rest use as a starter to make the next batch drink 1 cup 3 times a day there are 26 different microbes 3 different kinds in the kefir grains. They will kill the bad guys and repopulate the gut with good guys. Make sure you use succanet because they need the minerals and white sugar won't do."

05/19/2013: Timh from Louisville, Ky, Usa: "Berj: It is very common to hear of digestive illnesses occurring following a short or lengthy stay in unsanitary environments and conditions like is common in Africa. There are numerous parasites and pathogens that one could be infected with.

Begin treatments of herbal remedies found here on E.C. for both parasites and pathogens. Some herbs are effective in removing both p & p. Garlic, Oregano, Grapefruitseed extracts are good universal antiparisite/pathogen herbs."

05/19/2013: Berj from Munich, Germany: "Thanks guys for the suggestions.

LDN treatment sounds promising. I will definitely pursue it and try to see how can I get that here in Germany.

As for the fecal transplant, I am also considering it and studying it. The cost is an issue unless I have to do it myself without testing the donor and so on. Otherwise its an expensive treatment given that only some special centers in the world do it. (One in Australia and some others in the States).

Coming to MMS, I never heard about it, and is also very interesting. I also may give it a try.

As for turmeric (curcumin), in the last month, I was adding curcumin on virtually everything I ate. I experienced no healing effect. Maybe I was not taking enough. I don't know. I may try your suggestion to take it with water, without the whey. Will still that work?

Thanks again for your suggestions. Looking forward for more suggestions regarding my case and I look forward to help others to find a cure for their colitis problem."

05/19/2013: Mike Giller from Denver, Colorado: "I am 62 and have not been to the doc in 6 years, not even for a checkup. 4 or 5 grams of herbs are not going to fix eating 4 or 500 grams of bad food the wrong way stop eating improperly processed food from big agra. Stop taking synthetic medications from big pharma and stop eating cooked food and start eating like an antelope, raw vegan, and start eating like a leopard raw animal products.

If you are suffering from a plethora of degenerative illnesses going downhill getting worse like I was, then you need to eat 75% raw vegan and 25% raw animal products. Get the super foods on amazon: hawaiin spirulina, japanese chlorella, navritas, raw cocoa powder, nondefatted dessicated liver, colostrum, nondenatured whey protein.

Add them to water with 1 gram of both wind and sun dried sea salt and dead sea salt per quart, 1 gram teravita water soluable humic acid and 1 gram 90000 heat units of cayenne and 1 gram of 20 borax per gallon. Start off with lots of water because the stuff does not taste good eventually you'll learn to tolerate the stuff. Take 30 grams coconut oil with 30 grams flax oil per day in divided doses take raw honey and succanet for carbs then you can experiment with a variety of herbal remedies and rejuvinating formulas"

05/19/2013: Berj from Munich, Germany: "Guys, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis while I was in Africa 8 years ago. Every now and then, and the latest was last month, I go and lie to the medical doctors and say I need a test for bacteria, parasites and any pathogen, and all are coming negative. So I don't know really if I have to believe the results tat I do not have any bacteria or parasite or not...

I do still believe though that it was caused by an infections in that not so clean environment, while I was very clean before living there, eating only home cooked meals, exercising regularla and being very athletic. Since then I have lost all my health and body. But I also guess my diet helped getting me colitis by that time. I was heavy on eggs (more than 5 a day, sometimes I ate 10), milk of around one liter per day and also cheeses (usually white). What do you think? I know that stool and blood test can have mistakes, but can they have the same mistake over and over again? I did 3 tests already this year and 3 times any parasite or bacteria came negative."

[YEA]  04/30/2010: Pip from Los Angeles, Ca: "I dropped dairy and grains and tried soap without parabens, which helped somewhat, especially avoiding hard cheese. However, after dropping Soy Lecithin from my diet my Keratosis Pilaris has cleared up very well."

01/16/2012: Jason from Chico, California: "I saw mentioned several foods that could cause KP but which are the most common culprits?

I'm 24 now and have been vegan for 3 years. When I stopped eating dairy I saw many improvements in my health but the condition of my KP was not one of them. In fact my KP just continued getting worse at the same rate it had been since it showed up at 14 on the back of my arms until now where it covers my entire body excluding hands and face. What would be the next most likely culprit?

I've already eradicated obvious things like caffiene/booze. I suppose I could cut out everything you guys mentioned but I have a hard enough time keeping a well rounded diet due to the fact that I'm poor as hell. I do alright and much better than I have in the past but I'm just not in a place where I can cut gluten/soy/whatever all simultaneously. Which should I try first?

I'll probably have my whole life to try different solutions but if there is one to be found I'd like to find it with the least amount of trial and error possible."

05/19/2013: Margaret from Lansdale, Pa: "To those who think kp is due to diet: it is! My research has turned up that almost every skin condition is due to low essential fatty acids. Some people have trouble processing EFAs; for others, it is a dietary problem. I am treating my kp with high ALAs from plant sources in combination with an alpha hydrox scrub in the shower and topical treatment of apple cider vinegar afterward, and my kp is almost entirely gone."

05/19/2013: Kay from Fort Worth, Texas: "My husband suffers from Bullous Pemphigoid on occasion. The last outbreak I took him to see his doctor was in the spring 2012. Because there was some deal going on between my drugstore chain and our insurance, I delayed a few days getting his litany of RXs filled. Meanwhile I upped the dosage of coconut oil I was giving him and he suddenly cleared up. There is a warning here in using the coconut oil. You cannot become lax with it because if you do, he will have another outbreak. I don't know if the coconut oil will work as effectively as it does when you catch the Bullous Pemphigoid very early. I did and there was only a small outbreak. Good luck."