The Kinetic Chain – How Referred Pain Comes About

If not having disease nor illness is our goal, we need to focus on being fit, well & healthy. Good health usually comes at a cost of time, effort, sacrifice and resources, or a combination of the prior. Most people don’t care to make the investment into taking care of themselves until after they are injured. even then, most people with health issues often choose pain medicines or sometimes surgery over exercise or lifestyle changes that can improve their situation. Traumatic injuries are often best treated with emergency surgery and that is really not the topic of this post.

What is kinetic linking?
The kinetic link principle describes how the human body can be considered in terms of a series of interrelated links or segments. Movement of one segment affects segments both proximal and distal to the first segment.

Like a machine, it’s made up of otherwise fixed segments given mobility by joints. A kinetic chain is the notion that these joints and segments have an effect on one another during movement. When one is in motion, it creates a chain of events that affects the movement of neighboring joints and segments.

“When one part moves, all parts move”

“When one part is affected, all parts are affected”

Instinctively, as humans we try to center our head directly above our physical center of gravity. Poor posture, short leg
syndrome, injuries or habitual body movements can cause remodeling of the muscular, skeletal and nervous system.
These root problems can be the cause of many chronic ailments. A difference in leg length by 7mm or 0.275″ can be enough to throw an individual’s spine out of “calibration”.

Shoulder pain can occur when ones side of the body is higher or lower than the opposite side.

Neck pain and headaches can occur when one side of the neck has more tension than the opposite.

Knee, hip and iliotibial band pain can occur when ones body weight is unevenly distributed between the two legs.

Knee pain can occur when ones body weight is unevenly distributed between the two legs.

Ankle pain can occur when ones side of the body is favored due to chronic pain

In 2019, 20.4% of adults had chronic pain and 7.4% of adults had chronic pain that frequently limited life or work activities (referred to as high impact chronic pain) in the past 3 months.

Chronic pain and high-impact chronic pain both increased with age and were highest among adults aged 65 and over.

Non-Hispanic white adults (23.6%) were more likely to have chronic pain compared with non-Hispanic black (19.3%), Hispanic (13.0%), and non-Hispanic Asian (6.8%) adults.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db390.htm

From my experience of over 40 years of martial arts, fitness and wellness training and teaching, I have seen some amazing benefits coming from qigong (yoga), tai chi any many other methods that are considered as “alternative”. For those in fairly good shape, one can develop an amazing amount of strength through out the whole body, but in particular the wrists, forearms, shoulders, lower back and the legs. I have also trained individuals that have had more serious issues such as cerebral palsy, knee injuries, severe trauma to the spine and hip and other ailments that have shown great improvement.

Kinetic linking is a widely known concept, not only relative to health and injuries but also for sports, athletics, martial arts and others. When a cowboy cracks a whip, kinetic linking is what makes the whip crack. Kinetic linking is what allows a baseball pitcher to deliver a 90 mph pitch, where kinetic linking allows the batter to hit the ball out of the park. In martial arts, it is this concept that lets a much smaller and seemingly weaker individual to defend themselves effectively against a much stronger opponent. An example of this would be in hitting someone in the nose with an open hand, while sitting at a table, versus the same person standing up and taking two steps forward while winding up their arm. Then stepping forward while extending their arm, like that whip to the aggressors nose.

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Be more active, eat healthier, sleep better, stress less these are the key components to maintaining a strong immune system.

I am currently offering lectures and classes for group, small group & private instruction in Wekiva, Longwood and Winter Park.Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures and seminars available on my YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

Breathe Through Your Nose

The Importance of Nose Breathing

There is evidence that breathing through the nose, creates air oscillations which can increase nitric oxide (NO) through the rise in exchange of air between the nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses. The paranasal sinuses can then produce larger amounts of nitric oxide which increase oxygen uptake. Nitric oxide is a powerful and potent vasodialator. Pulmonary Vascular Resistance (PVR) was shown in research studies to be reduced during nasal breathing when compared to mouth breathing. Additionally, nitric oxide aids in nonspecific host defense against infections stemming from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites (Trivedi & Saboo, 2021).

anterior view of ethmoid bone and sinus cavity

In 1988, the Nobel Prize in Physiology was awared to Robert F. Furchgott of the State University of New York Health Science Center in Brooklyn, Ferid Murad of the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, and Louis J. Ignarro of the University of California School of Medicine in Los Angeles. The award was for their discoveries regarding nitric oxide as a signalling molecule in the cardiovascular system.

Furchgott had previously discovered that endothelial cells that line the interior blood vessels, produce this signaling molecule of nitric oxide (NO). NO makes nearby muscles to relax and consequently help to regulate blood pressure. More recently, scientists have discovered that the enzymes with which cells make the short-lived gas, play a role in activities as such as immunity, memory formation, and tumor suppression. Some brain cells also send messages using NO. Immune cells release bursts of nitric oxide to kill infectious organisms and cancer cells. Doctors are also researching the effects of nitric oxide with premature infants to stimulate blood flow to their underdeveloped lungs (Travis, 1998).

https://learntosleepwell.com/scientific-research/could-nasal-nitric-oxide-help-to-mitigate-the-severity-of-covid-19/

Yoga (qigong), tai chi, meditation, martial arts and other methods often put a major emphasis on regulated breathing through the nose.

References:

Trivedi, G. Y., & Saboo, B. (2021). Bhramari Pranayama – A simple lifestyle intervention to reduce heart rate, enhance the lung function and immunity. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 12(3), 562–564. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.1016/j.jaim.2021.07.004

Travis, J. (1998, October 17). Medical Nobel prize says yes to NO. (nitric oxide research honored)(Brief Article). Science News, v154(n16), p246.

YOU’VE BEEN BREATHING ALL WRONG: Hey mouth-breathers! Use your nose to boost immunity–and mood.(SCIENCE). (2020, July 1). Maclean’s, 133(6), 76.

SETTERGREN, ANGDIN, ASTUDILLO, GELINDER, LISKA, LUNDBERG, WEITZBERG, & Settergren, G. (1998). Decreased pulmonary vascular resistance during nasal breathing: modulation by endogenous nitric oxide from the paranasal sinuses. Acta Physiologica Scandinavica, 163(3), 235–239.

Struben, V. M. D., Wieringa, M. H., Mantingh, C. J., Bruinsma, S. M., de Jongste, J. C., & Feenstra, L. (2005). Silent and humming nasal NO measurements in adults aged 18–70 years. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 35(10), 653–657. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/j.1365-2362.2005.01559.x

Ethmoid Bone – Location – Structure – Relationships. (2020, December 5). TeachMeAnatomy. https://teachmeanatomy.info/head/osteology/ethmoid-bone/

______________

Be more active, eat healthier, sleep better, stress less these are the key components to maintaining a strong immune system.

I am currently offering lectures and classes for group, small group & private instruction in Wekiva, Longwood and Winter Park.Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures and seminars available on my YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

What is this Frankincense Stuff Anyway?

The 3 Wise Men or Maji were said to have brought Jesus three gifts with spiritual meaning, being gold, frankincense and myrrh. Gold was a symbol of kingship on earth. Myrrh (an embalming oil) was a symbol of death. Frankincense (an incense) was a symbol of deity. This post is my detailed review of frankincense.

Herbal Monograph – Boswellia (Frankincense)

Overview:

Boswellia serrata also known as Boswellia sacra, Indian frankincense, Indian olibanum, or the botanical synonym of Boswellia glabra Roxb. Boswellia is a small tree or shrub belonging to the Burseraceae category of gum trees that also include myrrh. Boswellia is native to the dry tropics of Africa, particularly in the northeast countries of Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, and Oman. Another version originates from a gum tree that grows in India and South Asia. Boswellia is commonly used as an ingredient in many herbal preparations, having immune effects similar to corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drugs, however having none of the side effects. It is often used for osteoarthritis to relieve pain (Micozzi, 2018).

Fig.1

Boswellia serrata Roxb. ex Colebr.

(Raffaelli, 2005)

Boswellia has been used for quite some time within Ayurveda (known as Salai guggal) as a pain reliever due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The fragrant resins from many varieties of Boswellia have also been used as incense as well as embalming liquids. Boswellia serrata has been more recently tested in clinical studies for a varied spectrum of inflammatory ailments (Bone & Mills, 2013).

The Boswellia serrata resin seems to be closely related to the biblical frankincense (B. carterii) which was known, along with gold and myrrh, gifts from the 3 Maji to Christ upon birth (What Is the Significance of the Three Wise Men and Their Gifts? 2020). Based upon this, it would appear that its benefits and usage has been known for at least a few thousand years. If Boswellia was indeed one of the traditional gifts introduced from the wise Magi traveling for thousands of miles, it might be surmised that they knew something about joint pain. As Boswellia and its acids are known to have remarkable anti-inflammatory, complement-inhibitory and analgesic properties. Many years later, the famous Germanic (Frankish) crusader Frederick Barbarossa, also known as “Red Beard, is thought to have brought Boswellia into Europe, thereby coining the common name “frank incense,” or frankincense (Micozzi, 2018).

Fig. 2

Boswellia serrata Roxb. resin

(Anjum, A., Tabssum, K., & Siddiqui, A. (2019). Kundur (Boswellia serrata Roxb) Resin)

Medicinal Uses:

In the traditional medicine modality of Ayurveda, the Boswellia resin, is most often administered externally as an anti-inflammatory agent and astringent applied topically or as an expectorant and stimulant when taken internally (Bone & Mills, 2013). Ayurveda also uses Boswellia as therapy for gastrointestinal diseases, gynecological issues, and diseases of the nervous system (Dohling, 2008).

Western medicine and pharmacology recognize its use as an analgesic (pain-reliever), anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-atherosclerotic (anti-coronary plaque), hepatoprotective (protects the liver), and anti-hyperlipidemic (controls blood lipids) (Siddiqui, 2011). Medicinal applications would include diarrhea, gonorrhea, syphilis, dysmenorrhea, chronic pulmonary diseases, rheumatic disorders, dysentery, hemorrhoids, liver disorders, general weakness, and loss of appetite. Clinical trials support Boswellia usage as an anti-inflammatory agent for inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma. Other ailments treated would be those with associated with elevated levels of leukotrienes would include allergic rhinitis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, urticaria, cystic fibrosis, psoriasis, chronic smoking, gout, liver cirrhosis and significant anti-tumor activity. Boswellia may be a major factor in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (Bone & Mills, 2013).

External uses of Boswellia include inflammatory diseases of the skin, such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis (Dohling, 2008). Research exists into usage of sports creams with ingredients such as Boswellia and ginger to reduce pain in the neck and shoulders of athletes. Significant improvement in pain and stiffness, was obtained with a reduction in need for rescue medication when Boswellia products were used (Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week, 2020).

Pharmacodynamics:

Boswellia’s seems to have an effect across a varied range of inflammatory diseases, although its clinical anti-inflammatory mechanisms are not well understood. Research indicates that Boswellic acid may prevent the formation of leukotrienes in the body. Leukotrienes are molecules that are understood to cause inflammation. Previous research, reports that Boswellic acids notably reduced the stimulated release of leukotrienes from undamaged human neutrophils, with Acetyl-11-keto-β-Boswellic acid (AKBA) being the most potent. Boswellia also reduced the formation of leukotrienes by obstructing the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase in vitro. Boswellic acids appear to produce a particular in vitro inhibitory effect on 5-lipoxygenase, with minimal effect on 12-lipoxygenase or cyclo-oxygenase (which produces prostaglandins). This mechanism of action is consequently unique when compared to conventional NSAIDs, which obstruct prostaglandin production. Compounds that inhibit 5-lipoxygenase typically do this because they are antioxidants. The activity of the Boswellic acids does not depend upon on antioxidant properties. The research concluded that Boswellia used in treatment of leukotriene-mediated inflammation and hypersensitivity-based disorders, could be beneficial (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Pharmacokinetics:

Boswellic acids have demonstrated the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier in rats. Studies on the permeation of Boswellia extract within the in vitro Caco-2 model of intestinal absorption, found moderate absorption of 11-keto-β-Boswellic acid (KBA and low permeability for Acetyl-11-keto-β-Boswellic acid (AKBA), with most of these compounds being retained in the Caco-2 monolayer. In the liver microsomes and hepatocytes of rats, and also in human liver microsomes, KBA but not AKBA, encountered substantial phase I metabolism. This was confirmed in vivo, where KBA encounters substantial first-pass metabolism however, AKBA does not. Therefore, metabolism is not mainly responsible for the notably poor bioavailability of AKBA. Boswellic acids bioavailability in humans, has been established in many pharmacokinetic studies, indicating that beta-Boswellic acid demonstrates increased bioavailability, then that of KBA and AKBA. These studies and their results indicated that Boswellia is recommended to be taken orally every 6 hours and consequently achieving steady-state plasma levels following roughly 30 hours (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Dosage and Administration:

The Boswellia tree produces the Oleo gum-resin which is tapped from an incision made on the trunk of the tree. The resin is then stored in a special bamboo basket for extraction of the oil content and solidification of the resin. Once processed, the gum-resin is then graded according to its size, shape, color, and flavor (Siddiqui, 2011). Boswellia as a resin, demands a 90% content of alcohol for extraction. Consequently, Boswellia is more easily offered as a capsule or tablet as opposed to a tincture, due to the relatively high doses required (Bone & Mills, 2013). Boswellia is also taken using the bark in a decoction to be consumed orally. The recommended dosage is based on relative clinical trials and historical practice. Currently it is not certain what the optimal dose is in order to balance efficacy as well as safety. Standardization of the manufacturing of Boswellia products is challenging as one product and its ingredients can be quite different from another (Siddiqui, 2011).

The recommended dosage for Boswellia is 200-400mg of extract, taken three times a day, and ingested with meals. Boswellia extract is usually standardized to contain a Boswellic acid content of 60-70% where the dose is relative to an equivalent resin intake of 2.4-4.8g (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Contraindications:

No known contraindications. However, from an Ayurveda viewpoint, Boswellia is not recommended for during pregnancy or while nursing. Additionally, for those with a weakened digestive system, it may be potentially unbalancing (Pole, 2006). Patients with known allergic tendencies should use caution when using Boswellia, as it is known to produce varied allergic reactions (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Toxicity:

Toxicity studies have normally indicated that Boswellic acids contain exceptionally low acute toxicity and cause no negative effects after administration. The oral and intraperitoneal LD₅₀ (median lethal dose) was greater than 2 g/kg in rats and mice. No notable changes presented in general behavior, nor in pathological, clinical, biochemical, or hematological data after chronic oral administration for 10 days. A Boswellia extract containing added 30% AKBA exhibited an oral LD₅₀ > 5 g/kg in rats and was categorized as being a non-irritant to the skin. A study for subacute toxicity, with the same extract spanning 90 days at up to 2.5% of feed presented no negative effects. A study with mice that were given experimentally induced colitis, discovered hepatotoxic effects for a methanolic extract at 1% of feed spanning 21 days, which was additionally supported by in vitro data (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Side effects:

Side effects might include skin rash, nausea, stomach pain or discomfort, diarrhea, skin burning, acid reflux, and feelings of fullness in the stomach (Side Effects and Interactions of Boswellia, 2020). Boswellia has known to produce side effects of contact dermatitis. Boswellia used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease was well tolerated in clinical trials, however mild side effects of hives (urticaria) and diarrhea were reported (Bone & Mills, 2013).

Drug Interactions:

No known drug interactions have been reported with the use of Boswellia. However, there is the possibility that Boswellia use might enhance or reduce the effects or toxicity of particular medications, such as some anticancer drugs, Singulair (a medication used for treating asthma), cholesterol-lowering drugs and antifungal drugs. Boswellia may also decrease the efficacy of some anti-inflammatory pain relievers like aspirin. ibuprofen, and naproxen. Boswellia may interact with some herbs and dietary supplements that might have anti-cancer properties like mistletoe (Viscum album), anti-fungal agents like tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), supplements used to manage joint diseases like glucosamine (chondroitin) and cholesterol-lowering supplements like Allium sativum (Side Effects and Interactions of Boswellia, 2020)

Clinical Reviews/Evidence:

A clinical trial composed by Raychaudhuri and her co-workers from 2008, in India reported that Boswellia serrata extract, reduces pain and significantly improves knee-joint functions, offering relief within seven days. Raychaudhuri and her co-workers believe that their study was the first to analyze the efficacy of an extract containing a form of Boswellic acid for treating osteoarthritis (Siddiqui, 2011).

A study published in 2019 with the intent of investigating the effects of 4 weeks of Boswellia consumption on explicit motor memory and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the elderly. Twenty elderly men with a mean age of 60.2 ± 1.7 years, were randomly divided into two groups of an experimental group (n = 12) and a placebo group (n = 8). Both groups engaged in a 4-week exercise program, using a protocol in order to exercise motor memory. During the 4-week period the experimental group consumed 500mg of Boswellia pills, two times a day. At the end of the 4 weeks, the results showed that Boswellia had a substantial effect on the acquisition and retention of explicit motor memory with older men with moderate mental status. However, there was no difference observed in the serum BDNF between the experimental and placebo groups (Asadi, et al., 2019).

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of inflammatory joint disease. Boswellia serrata is known as a potent anti-arthritic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agent that may be used to treat OA. A research article published with BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies in 2020. Reported in the article was a systematic review and meta-analysis which included seven random controlled trials (RCTs) to analyze the safety and efficacy of Boswellia extract for OA. A total of 545 participants engaged in the trials. Boswellia extract demonstrated that it may offer relief from pain and stiffness while also improving joint function. Determined from the reported evidence was that pain, stiffness, and joint function began to show improvement following 4 weeks of sustained consumption of 100-250mg of Boswellia extract. This should be interpreted with discretion due to the uncertain considerable risk of bias for reporting bias (selective reporting), bias for selection bias (allocation concealment and random sequence generation), attrition bias (incomplete outcome data), and the relatively small amount of participants that were all noted in the article (Yu, et al., 2020).

A 2021 study reported on the use of Boswellia for Gulf War Illness (GWI). GWI is a chronic, multi-symptom condition with unknown etiology. Symptoms are wide and varied for those with GWI, such as respiratory difficulties, pain, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and dermatological ailments leading researchers to believe that GWI is a neuroimmune condition engaging systemic inflammation. The study was a pseudo-randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial to evaluate the effects of nine separate anti-inflammatory botanical compounds for symptoms of GWI. 39 Participants were eligible for the study based upon screening criteria at the time. Boswellia was not any more effective than a placebo at decreasing GWI symptoms at either the lower (p = 0.726) or higher (p = 0.869) dosages (Donovan, et al., 2021). The evidence from this study warrants the need for more research into this ailment and treatments of it.

The Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology posted an article in 2021, regarding research into the antibacterial activity of Boswellia serrata Extract for inhibition of oral pathogenic bacteria. Samples were collected at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Kufa, from twenty periodontitis patients. For this research, Boswellia serrata extract was assessed for antimicrobial activity with the results showing excellent anti-growth intervention against the tested isolates. The results offered promise into the use of natural remedies as a source to address the issue of antibiotic resistance. Boswellia extract demonstrated notable action against Streptococcus orails at 250 and 500mg/ml concentrations and Gemella morbillorum that being affected by the extract at 500mg/ml. Boswellia and its bioactive components, has the potential to offer treatment options for oral bacterial infections (Salman, et al., 2021).

A study from January of 2022 evaluated the efficacy of herbal extracts from curcumin and Boswellia (as Curcumin Boswellia Phytosome, CBP) and Low FODMAP’s diet (LFD) for relief of abdominal bloating in association with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Sixty-seven participants with IBS with small bowel dysbiosis were recruited. The intervention group of 33 subjects showed a notable decrease (p < 0.0001) in abdominal pain, bloating and indican values by the end of the study, compared with the control group of 34 subjects. The subjects within the intervention group experienced a notably better (p < 0.0001) global assessment of efficacy (GAE) when compared to the control group. Participants with IBS and small bowel dysbiosis, and abdominal bloating can successfully reduce symptoms with supplementation of CBP and LFD (Giacosa, et al., 2022).

From these various case studies there is seemingly much evidence of the medicinal health benefits that can be gained from use of Boswellia. However, in spite of its long history of usage dating back over thousands of years, more current research is necessary for Boswellia to be used within current Western allopathic medicine.

References:

Anjum, A., Tabssum, K., & Siddiqui, A. (2019). Kundur (Boswellia serrata Roxb) Resin [Photograph]. Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Kundur-(Boswellia-serrata-Roxb)-A-boon-of-nature-in-Anjum-Tabassum/6839fa4fe83f654c8471c06b1e5a120f5b11bd12

Asadi, E., Shahabı Kaseb, M. R., Zeıdabadı, R., & Hamedınıa, M. R. (2019). Effect of 4 weeks of frankincense consumption on explicit motor memory and serum BDNF in elderly men. Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, 49(4), 1033–1040. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.3906/sag-1810-204

Bone, Kerry; Mills, Simon, (2013), Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Elsevier Health Sciences. Kindle Edition.

Dohling, Carsten. “Boswellia serrata (Frankincense) – from traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) to evidence-based medicine.” Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy & Phytopharmacology, vol. 15, no. 6-7, June 2008, p. 540. Gale Academic OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A184613211/AONE?u=vol_l99n&sid=ebsco&xid=2ce2ada6. Accessed 25 Apr. 2022.

Donovan, E. K., Kekes-Szabo, S., Lin, J. C., Massey, R. L., Cobb, J. D., Hodgin, K. S., Ness, T. J., Hangee-Bauer, C., & Younger, J. W. (2021). A Placebo-Controlled, Pseudo-Randomized, Crossover Trial of Botanical Agents for Gulf War Illness: Curcumin (Curcuma longa), Boswellia (Boswellia serrata), and French Maritime Pine Bark (Pinus pinaster). International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(5), 2468. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.3390/ijerph18052468

Giacosa, A., Riva, A., Petrangolini, G., Allegrini, P., Fazia, T., Bernardinelli, L., Peroni, G., & Rondanelli, M. (2022). Beneficial Effects on Abdominal Bloating with an Innovative Food-Grade Formulation of Curcuma longa and Boswellia serrata Extracts in Subjects with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Small Bowel Dysbiosis. Nutrients, 14(3), 416. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.3390/nu14030416

Micozzi, Marc S. Fundamentals of Complementary, Alternative, and Integrative Medicine – E-Book (2018). Elsevier Health Sciences. Kindle Edition.

Pole, Sebastian. Ayurvedic Herbs: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Churchill Livingstone, 2006. (pg. 179)

Raffaelli, M. (2005). Boswellia-Dowkah-2.jpg [Photograph]. Wikimedia Commons. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Boswellia-Dowkah-2.JPG

Recent Findings from Chieti-Pescara University Provide New Insights into Shoulder Pain [A sport cream (Harpago-Boswellia-ginger-escin) for localized neck/shoulder pain]. (2020). Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week, 4029. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A635320954/AONE?u=vol_l99n&sid=ebsco&xid=e8a293e7

Salman, K. A., Jawad, S. M., & Abbas, S. H. (2021). Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Boswellia serrata Extract Against some of the Oral Pathogenic Bacteria. Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, 15(3), 3371–3376. https://doi-org.northernvermont.idm.oclc.org/10.37506/ijfmt.v15i3.15822

Siddiqui M. Z. (2011). Boswellia serrata, a potential antiinflammatory agent: an overview. Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 73(3), 255–261. https://doi.org/10.4103/0250-474X.93507

Side Effects and Interactions of Boswellia. (2020, September 22). Chinese Herbs. https://www.chinese-herbs.org/boswellia/boswellia-side-effects-and-interactions.html

What Is the Significance of the Three Wise Men and Their Gifts? (2020, December 1). Christianity.Com. Retrieved February 13, 2022, from https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/significance-of-the-three-wise-men-and-their-gifts.html (Links to an external site.)

Yu, G., Xiang, W., Zhang, T., Zeng, L., Yang, K., & Li, J. (2020). Effectiveness of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 20(1), NA. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A631896548/AONE?u=vol_l99n&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=6e6a7f49

_______________

I teach classes, seminars, and private instruction focusing on methods of wellness from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tai Chi, Qigong, acupressure and exercises from martial arts for fitness and improved health. 407-234-0119.

More education products can be found at:

https://www.mindandbodyexercises.com/f825576692

________

I write often about topics that affect our health and well-being. Additionally, I teach and offer lecture about qigong, tai chi, baguazhang, and yoga.

For more info, contact Jim Moltzan at info@mindandbodyexercises.com, 407-234-0119 or through my site at http://www.mindandbodyexercises.com

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Arnica – A Potentially Toxic Herb?

Arnica flowers, Arnica montana, or wolf’s bane, is typically used in a tincture as an analgesic, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ecchymotic (against bruises). Arnica has been a widely used remedy, being used (topically) externally in order to stimulate peripheral blood supply for swelling/inflammation, sprains, bruises, wounds and injuries. Additional external uses are for dandruff, dislocations, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, oedema associated with fractures, rheumatic, muscle and joint complaints, surface phlebitis, inflamed insect bites. Diluted arnica is often applied to the skin surface and purposely not covered with bandages. Arnica oil, which is a macerated oil from the arnica flowers, also has topical uses. This herb is sometimes taken internally, although not recommended, as a diuretic and stimulant. Due to irritant and allergenic effects internal use is a much lesser usage. Homeopathic preparations with arnica are also used internally and externally. In injuries of open wounds or where skin is broken or tender, topical application should be avoided as should usage near the eyes and mouth (Bones & Mills, 2013)

Internal use of arnica is not recommended. Oral use of arnica after oral ingestion may lead to dizziness, trembling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, cardiac rhythm disturbances, breathing difficulties and collapse. There is high risk of damage to the fetus or miscarriage, if taken internally (Bones & Mills, 2013). Taken orally, Arnica may have side effects of muscle weakness, tachyarrhythmia, respiratory distress, gastrointestinal hemorrhage (Canders & Stanford, 2014). Arnica overdose can cause death due to circulatory paralysis with secondary respiratory arrest (Bones & Mills, 2013). When ingested orally, arnica’s exhibits immunomodulatory and cytotoxic effects, with its toxic constituent of Helenalin, which inhibits platelet aggregation. Arnica toxicity has no antidote (Canders & Stanford, 2014).

Key constituents include:

sesquiterpene lactones (SLs) of the pseudoguaianolide type (0.2% to 1.5%), including helenalin and 11alpha, 13-dihydrohelenalin and their ester derivatives
triterpenes, including arnidiol
Flavonoids (0.4% to 0.6%) including quercitin 3-O-glucuronic acid
Lignans including pinoresinol
Coumarins, carotenoids
Non-toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (tussilagine and isotussilagine)
Polyacetylenes
Essential oil (0.23% to 0.35%) containing sesquiterpenes, thymol derivatives and other monoterpenes
Caffeoylquinic acids (phenolic acids) including 3,5- and 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acids (Bones & Mills, 2013)

Arnica is recommended for mostly anti-inflammatory topical usage, with noted occasional side effects of irritant contact dermatitis when used externally. It is not recommended for prolonged usage or for persons with sensitivity to members of the Asteraceae family, such as daisies, ragweed, and chrysanthemums (Bones & Mills, 2013).

There are alternative herbal options for arnica depending upon the intended use. For wounds, muscular and joint pain, lavender is an option. Comfrey is used also for wounds, fractures and relative bruising. Aloe is an option for abrasions, wounds and other injuries (Herbs with Similar Uses as: Arnica, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, St. Luke’s Hospital, n.d.)

References:

Bone, Kerry; Mills, Simon. (2013) Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy (p. 373). Elsevier Health Sciences. Kindle Edition.

Canders, C., & Stanford, S. (2014, January 13). A Dangerous Cup of Tea. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. https://www.wemjournal.org/article/S1080-6032(13)00345-1/fulltext#relatedArticles

Herbs with Similar Uses as: Arnica | Complementary and Alternative Medicine | St. Luke’s Hospital. (n.d.). St. Luke’s Hosptial. Retrieved February 23, 2022, from https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000589.htm

I write often about topics that affect our health and well-being. Additionally, I teach and offer lecture about qigong, tai chi, baguazhang, and yoga.

For more info, contact Jim Moltzan at info@mindandbodyexercises.com, 407-234-0119 or through my site at http://www.mindandbodyexercises.com

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Challenges that are Currently Facing Complementary and Alternative Medicine

I have commented on this topic in former discussions, specifically big pharmaceutical companies hindering expansion of the herbal market, where they either buy out the smaller herbal companies or use their vast resources to lobby against or stifle growth of alternative natural medicinal options. I really don’t think it is wise to take a ‘let’s wait and see where this goes” approach as opposed to a “be self-reliant in pursuing natural options through due diligence” type of attitude. I feel people need to be more accountable to themselves and their loved ones, for managing their own healthcare or more appropriately “self-care” program. Herbs and other natural remedies will continue to see more re-acceptance and growth as people increasingly become weary of the high costs, side-effects and politics associated with pharmaceuticals. This is evident from a past article on the global herbal medicine market is predicted to possibly become a $550 billion industry by 2030 (insightSLICE, 2021).

From my own experience, Western medical professionals are not going to offer or steer a patient towards herbs when the whole healthcare industry is based upon mostly quick-fix pharmaceuticals and most often at exorbitantly higher costs to the consumer. For example, my allopathic doctor prescribing Nasacort, Flonase and eventually Claritin for seasonal allergies, when I was able to replace these with a combination of ginger, turmeric and black pepper with great success. Another orthopedic doctor was intent upon me having surgery for a torn meniscus in my knee. I declined and practiced more qigong and applied herbs topically to my injured knee for 6 months, again with much success.

My botanical medicine history started when my mother gave me warm milk with honey for a sore throat when I was probably 4 or 5 years old. My mother’s family came from what was formerly known as Bohemia and now named the Czech Republic, and my father’s ancestors came from Germany, where decades back traditional medicines and herbal remedies were quite common. Around this same time, I was introduced to Jägermeister (probably considered child abuse these days), the alcoholic beverage that actually has medicinal properties from its herbal ingredients of cinnamon, ginger root, licorice root and rose hips (Arifin, 2017).

Years later when I was 16, I began martial arts training with Korean and Chinese kung fu. My teachers were very much Taoists and Traditional Chinese Medicine was inherently bound within our curriculum and knowledge base. I was quite naïve and impressionable at the time, having had little true-life experience. Fortunately for me, this was a very good education to have been introduced to at such an early age, as it gave me a firm foundation in health, fitness, wellness and nutrition for years to come.

I was taught (along with my peers and fellow students) that the body can innately maintain and cure itself if given the right balance of physical exercise, proper diet and nutrition (including herbs) and appropriate self-management of our thoughts and emotions. Our go to beverage and preventative, was ginger root tea, to aid in good digestion and overall reduction of inflammation relative to physical training. If overly sore or injured, we would use curcumin poultices or store-bought plaster patches with cayenne. We would use herbal extracts called Dit Da Jow, to apply to our hands, arms and other parts of our bodies for what is referred to as Iron Body training. These Jows are somewhat unique in that they reduce inflammation while at the same time increase blood circulation and promote natural healing. We ate kimchi, a known probiotic and were encouraged to eat and cook with garlic, ginger, turmeric, cayenne and onion as much as possible.

Years later, the training and knowledge increased to even more Traditional Chinese Medicine methods of moxibustion. This is a method, where herbs smolder on acupuncture needles or sometimes directly on the skin (direct moxibustion) or indirect where the herbs burn on a layer of ginger, garlic or salt which cover specific acupuncture points and meridians.

Additionally, we were prescribed or instructed on how to use particular Chinese herbal tea recipes for various physical imbalances. These teas were incredibly strong in flavor and potency, and were to help cure whatever issues of cough, allergies, tinnitus, irritable bowel syndrome, headache, and many other ailments. These teas looked like tar by the time they decocted down to a cup size serving and tasted pretty much the same, but they all worked amazingly well. Even more recently, I have been introduced to Ayurveda through my martial arts lineage as well as with my NVU degree program. Ayurveda seems to be the parent of TCM in many aspects, as I have found many of the same herbs and principles of treatment and prevention from using specific recipes.

I have been fully into the whole concept of phytotherapy for almost 50 years, for all of the reasons I have discussed over previous posts, distilling it down to less side effects, less toxins, less cost, more individual control over my own health and well-being. I see herbalism/botanical addressing the root causes of illness and disease as well as symptoms, versus conventional allopathic medicine treating of the symptoms with little or no expectation of addressing root issues. Herbalism seems to have its greatest benefits as a preventative for chronic and long-term ailments, however having benefits for some acute issues also. Conventional allopathic medicine’s greatest strength is in immediate treatment for trauma and acute illnesses.

Best wishes and be well!

References:

Arifin, E. (2017, December 23). 7 Health Benefits of Drinking Jagermeister #1 Unexpected. DrHealthBenefits.com. https://drhealthbenefits.com/food-bevarages/beverages/health-benefits-drinking-jagermeister

insightSLICE. (2021, February 16). Herbal Medicine Market Global Sales Are Expected To Reach US$ 550 Billion by 2030, as stated by insightSLICE. GlobeNewswire News Room. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2021/02/16/2176036/0/en/Herbal-Medicine-Market-Global-Sales-Are-Expected-To-Reach-US-550-Billion-by-2030-as-stated-by-insightSLICE.html

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Be more active, eat healthier, sleep better, stress less these are the key components to maintaining a strong immune system.

I am currently offering lectures and classes for group, small group & private instruction in Wekiva, Longwood and Winter Park.Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures and seminars available on my YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan