Summer feasting according to TCM

The arrival of summer is important in traditional Chinese medicine as it is the time to release excessive heat in the body. Eating "cold" foods can help improve energy flow and reduce irritability.
Summer has arrived, according to the Chinese solar calendar, and now is the time to adjust your diet and schedule to ensure you stay healthy.

For all things in TCM, there is a season. Spring is for sprouting, summer for growing, autumn for reaping and winter for storing. While with summer, the universe enters the "prosperous" season.

"Huang Di Nei Jing" ("Medical Classic of the Yellow Emperor") says the energy of the sky merges with the energy of the Earth during the summer, thus yang ("hot") energy grows rapidly in the universe while yin ("cold") energy diminishes.

To coordinate with the universe, everyone should adapt their schedule by getting up early and going to bed late, which helps yang energy grow in the summer.
Releasing excessive heat and blockage of blood and energy are the main principles of summer health maintenance in TCM.

Only by releasing heat in summer will you be able to absorb reinforcing therapy in autumn and winter, the seasons for reaping and storing energy.

Eating yin or "cold" energy, foods and sweating can help release blockages and improve energy flow. Do not avoid the sun in the early summer (use sun block),
but drink enough water to make up for the loss of fluids.

Testimonials for essential oils blend Purification

Don’t expect the same results unless you are using Young Living Therapeutic Grade essential oils and supplements. Also, each person is different so they may not work as well for you as it does for others, so try another oil or supplement that might work better for you.
 
Essential oil testimonials are an effective way of learning and sharing. With this knowledge, we can take control of our own personal health. However, we are required by law to state:
 
“These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products and Techniques mentions are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Information provided here is in no way intended to replace proper medical help. Consult with the health authorities of your choice.”
 

 

Purification drops the spiders and flies right off the wall and ceiling, in Montana! We need Purification here in this country. I don’t really like to find flies on the floor, but I love knowing my Purification oil is working. We have a diffuser going several hours a day. Buy a diffuser and you’ll see.  D.H. MT.

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I have been avoiding coloring my hair for some time now, wanting to avoid the chemicals, but I finally decided to have it done. Before I went to the hairdresser, I put Purification on the bottom of my feet. I put shoes and socks on after that and I could no longer smell the Purification. Later, when the hairdresser applied the chemical dye, all of a sudden, I could smell Purification as clear as can be. It was working to protect my cells from the hair coloring chemicals!
            
Later on that night, I felt my head get a little warm and I smelled the Purification clearly once again. I think I was getting another ‘treatment’. It went away quickly and didn’t happen again after that.

I have heard also that you can put Purification on the bottom of your feet before you go to a public swimming pool with lots of Chlorine in it. The Purification will prevent the uptake of as much chlorine as you would otherwise have. I love Purification! L.H.  ID.
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I love Purification for bug bites. It stops the itch and the pain. I got stung on the back of the neck by a yellow jacket and it hurt a lot until I applied Purification. It took the pain away and kept the swelling down. I always carry it with me, especially in the summer.

I make mosquito spray with 10-15 drops of Purification, 2 oz of water and a drop of a liquid soap. Work’s great. After gardening I noticed many red bug bites that started to itch. I apply Purification to each one, neat, they no longer itched and they started to go away. D.M. WI.
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While reading another testimony of Purification Oil that person stated they used this oil along with Murphy’s Oil Soap and water to clan musty furniture.

I decided to try spritzing Purification Oil mixed with filtered water into an old wooden trunk and also a chest of drawers. It did the trick! I have tried other forms of getting rid of the odor but nothing else worked. S.B. TX.
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Diffusing Purification in Young Living’s cold air diffuser completely took away the mildew smell in our basement after it flooded last summer. I diffused it for about 15 minutes, 3 or 4 times a week for about a month before I realized that the smell was completely gone. V.G. NC.
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Had a very sick cat that urinated on my bedding and pillows. Sprayed everything down well with several drops of Purification in a spray bottled willed with water and the next day hauled everything to the Laundromat.

Added 10 drops of Purification to both the wash and rinse cycles and put several drops on a washcloth which I added to the dryer. All cat order is gone, even from my down pillow. C.M. IL.
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Don’t expect the same results unless you are using Young Living Therapeutic Grade essential oils and supplements. Also, each person is different so they may not work as well for you as it does for others, so try another oil or supplement that might work better for you.
 
Essential oil testimonials are an effective way of learning and sharing. With this knowledge, we can take control of our own personal health. However, we are required by law to state:
 
“These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products and Techniques mentions are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Information provided here is in no way intended to replace proper medical help. Consult with the health authorities of your choice.”
 

For more Purification testimonials, go to:
http://www.oil-testimonials.com

PURIFICATION and Just a Few of It’s Uses

An antiseptic blend of Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus),lemongrass (Cymbopogon
lexuosus), rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia), lavandin (Lavandula hybrida) and myrtle (Myrtus communis)
formulated for diffusing to purify and cleanse the air and neutralize mildew, cigarette smoke and disagreeable odors.

•   Diffusing Purification oil may help clean the air and neutralize foul or stale odors.
•   Putting several drops of Purification oil on a cotton ball and place in the air vents in the home, office, hotel room or  other enclosed area may help
•              control odors.
•   While traveling, inhaling Purification oil during flights, may help in protecting yourself from pathogens found in the recirculated air.
•   Putting a drop of Purification oil on insect bites may help to cleanse and stop the itching.
•   Applying a drop of Purification oil on blemishes may help to clear the skin.
•   Rubbing a drop of Purification oil on the outside of the throat may be soothing when it feels irritated.
•   Rubbing a drop of Purification oil on a blister may help to cleanse and sanitize.
•   Putting 2 drops of Purification oil on two cotton balls and placing in the toes of smelly sneakers may help combat odors.
•   Placing a drop of Purification oil on each end of a cotton swab and placing on top of your cold water humidifier may help to clean the air.
•   Spritzing several drops of Purification oil mixed with water may help to repel insects.
•   Applying Purification oil and Peppermint oil diluted with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil to a cotton swab and rubbing just inside the ear may help with ear mites in cats and dogs.

 PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE

Essential oils blend: Purification

Product Summary
Purification essential oil blend is a versatile combination of Young Living Therapeutic Grade™ essential oils created to meet a variety of everyday needs. Citronella is combined with rosemary, lavandin, and lemongrass essential oils to cleanse and soothe insect bites. When diffused, it helps to purify and cleanse the air from unwanted odors.

Product Story
Purification has a clean, refreshing, uplifting scent that is beneficial for the home and body. When diffused in the air it can neutralize foul odors, which is an ideal alternative to using chemical-filled sprays around the home. Purification also has benefits when applied topically to the skin, especially after an uncomfortable bug bite. Use it to cleanse and soothe skin and combat the effects of painful bites from spiders, bees, hornets, and wasps. With Purification on hand, you’ll find that it even naturally repels these pests. And if you have pets, Purification can also remove undesirable smells from litter boxes and other sources of odor.

Key Ingredients
+ Citronella contributes to Purification’s fruity smell. Citronella is great on the skin and helps repel certain insects.
+ Lemongrass has a potent, refreshing scent that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
+ Lavandin is a cousin of lavender and has wound-healing properties and supports general skin health.
+ Rosemary has a stimulating and invigorating effect, and is commonly used for room diffusers, controlling mold, and uplifting spirits.
+ Melaleuca is sometimes called tea tree oil and has historically been used by aboriginal Australians for bruises, insect bites, and skin infections.

Primary Benefits
+ Eliminates unwanted odors and purifies the air.
+ Cleanses and soothes skin from insect bites.
+ Purification has an uplifting and rejuvenating aroma when diffused or inhaled directly from the bottle.

How To Use
Put a few drops of Purification on a cotton ball and place them around the house, car, or where you need it the most. Try adding a few drops to a spray bottle to freshen furniture and carpet. Purification also works well on bathroom surfaces to clean mildew and hard-water stains.

For pets, take one cup of baking soda and twenty drops of Purification, mix well, and sprinkle some in the litter box. You can also use this baking soda blend on carpets when your animals have had an accident. Add Purification with water in a spray bottle and apply it directly to the stain to neutralize the odors as well.

Did You Know?
+ Purification can also be used to remove bathroom hard-water stains.
+ Purification is a handy first-aid remedy. Keep some in your purse and first-aid kit.

Caution
Purification includes citronella which may react with certain skin types. If used topically, first dilute with a vegetable oil to test.

Purification®   PRODUCT INFORMATION PAGE

American Ginseng (Fiber) - 洋参须

Introduction
Not all ginseng are created equal. For example, most types of Korean Ginseng is generally considered to be more Yang and therefore has a hotter energetic value,  while American Ginseng is known to be ‘cooling’ - more Yin (based on the Chinese herbalogy system of ‘yin’ and ‘yang’ foods).

Names
Simplified Chinese: 洋参须
Traditional Chinese: 洋參鬚
Mandarin Pinyin: Yang Shen Xu

The particular type of ginseng is known as “洋参须” (Yang Shen Xu). The first two words 洋参 (Yang Shen) refers to American Ginseng, and the third word 须 (Xu) literally means “beards”, which have also been translated as American ginseng “fiber”. American ginseng, they are small, thin and wispy looking (hence it’s resemblance to beards?)

Properties
A well known property of this ginseng is that it is very ‘cooling’. So consuming it will supposedly reduce your body “heatiness” (降火). This ginseng is used for brewing tea for children during the school exams period so they can ‘burn the midnight oil’, because this type of ginseng is also known to keep one mentally alert (提神). Therefore, if you are someone who doesn’t sleep easily at night or have to avoid caffeine near bedtime, you should likewise avoid consuming this ingredient at night. You should consult a doctor for the suitability of consuming this ingredient if you are pregnant or have special medical history.

Storage
Store sealed ginseng (in a container) in a cool, dry place (such as fridge or freezer section).

Where to Purchase

Contact

www.TeaFirst.com

Luo Han Guo (Monk’s Fruit) - 罗汉果

This fruit is popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and highly regarded as a longevity fruit. It is a sweet fruit, with its fruit extract nearly 300 times sweeter than sugar while containing much less calories than sugar. It has hence been used as a natural and healthy sweetener in foods, and also used by diabetics as a form of sugar substitution.

The appearance of the fruit, as described by Chinese author Dai Yin-Fang & Liu Cheng-Jun in their book “Fruits As Medicine: A Safe and Cheap Form of Traditional Chinese Food Therapy” -

“The surface of the fruit is round and smooth, it has a yellow-brownish or green-brownish colour, and is covered by fine hairs. The fruit has a hard but thin shell. Inside, one finds a partially dried, soft substance which contains the juice and a large quantity of seeds.”

Common Uses
This fruit is usually available in the dried form, and used to brew herbal tea or Chinese soups.

How to Prepare
To get maximum flavour from the fruit, first break the fruit in half. For convenience, you can place the smashed fruit in a disposable soup pouch to contain the smashed bits (containing pulp and numerous seeds) inside the fruit during cooking. The fruit is usually boiled or simmered.

Names
1) Scientific Name: Siraitia grosvenorii
2) Simplified: 罗汉果; Traditional: 羅漢果; literally “arhat fruit” (monk’s fruit)
Mandarin Pinyin: luóhàn guǒ
3) Vietnamese: la hán quả

Health Benefits & Properties
Monk’s fruit has been regarded as a longevity fruit for its health benefits. The fruit is touted for promoting a balanced heat built up by expelling excess heat from one’s body. It is also well known for its ability to combat chronic cough & throat inflammation as well as constipation. It is also an excellent thirst quencher and used to alleviate the symptoms of heat stroke and thirst. You should consult a doctor for the suitability of consuming this ingredient if you are pregnant or have a special medical history.

Selection
Choose whole (unbroken) fruits.

Storage
Store fruit (sealed, in a bag or container) in a cool, dry place (such as fridge).

Where to Purchase

Contact www.TeaHorseCaravan.com

csterrajamu@gmail.com

Osmanthus Flower Tisanes - 桂花

Introduction
These tiny golden-yellow (when in full bloom) flowers are not just pretty to look at, they are also well known for the superb sweet and pleasant fragrance they impart. There is a Chinese phrase “桂花香” (meaning the fragrance/aroma of osmanthus flowers) which is commonly used in Chinese literature and popular culture to describe sweet aroma or sweet things, both literally and abstractly. The aroma of the flowers is unbelievably distinctive and yet, gentle at the same time. These flowers are usually available for purchase in its dried form.

Common Uses
They are often used to make osmanthus tea (桂花茶) or Chinese desserts such
as osmanthus jelly (桂花糕).

Names

Chinese (both simplified and traditional): 桂花
Mandarin Pinyin: guìhuā

Health Benefits & Properties
Some of the many health benefits include promoting beautiful skin, a balanced state of mind, digestion and detoxification. It is also known to relieve fatigue and improve appetite. You should consult a doctor for the suitability of consuming this ingredient if you are pregnant or have a special medical history.

Storage
Store flowers (sealed, in an air-tight vessel) in a cool, dry place (such as fridge or freezer section).

Where To Purchase

http://www.teafirst.com/Fleurs-SweetOsmanthus-pg--2.html

Contact : www.TeaFirst.com

How to Maintain a Tranquil Soul - Living in Perfect Peace

Jeremiah 29:11 says: "'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,' says the Lord, 'thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.'"

 

Nirvana will not be generated by people or prescription pills. It is not obtained through yoga or occult meditation or any other occult practice. True tranquility of soul, genuine godly peace, is only found in the person of Christ, not in some ritual or pagan practice. He alone is the Prince of Peace.

The antidote for negative thoughts or emotions is simple: We must obey the Word of God. The only cure for fear and anxiety is abiding in the Word, the person of Christ Jesus. Paul declares in Philippians 4:6-7 (AMP):

"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

The answer to stress and anxiety is not medication but a living relationship with the Master! This is the pattern we need to learn: As we turn our inner focus, our will, to Christ and place our affections on Him, adjusting our thoughts to the Word, we will discover abiding peace. This is the Enoch walk of the overcomer!

Christ's presence within us is our assurance that we can live in peace, even in times of pressure and turmoil. The promise is much more than just merely getting through the tough times – He promises us perfect peace and constant contentment.

Does this sound too good to be true? Hardly! This is the abundant life purchased for us by the broken body and spilled Blood of the Lamb of God at Calvary. He died and rose again to birth the Kingdom of God within us when we are born again. The Prince of Peace abides within us! We have a Blood-bought right to walk in uninterrupted shalom, free from all anxiety and fear, because of the living, breathing presence of Christ in our temple.

This is not too good to be true. Despite the arguments of your mind and heart, the Scriptures are always true – and they are filled with examples of people who lived in peace in overwhelming situations.

Abraham believed God, even as he raised the knife over Isaac (see Genesis 22). Caleb and Joshua believed God's promises after 40 years in the desert (see Numbers 14:38).

Mary believed God's Word, having never known a man – and her soul rejoiced (see Luke 1:26-38). Christ Himself believed His Father even as He was crucified. When He overcame sin, fear, and death at Calvary, we overcame them in Him. We were united with Him in death, and we are united with Him in His resurrection. The Cross stripped all power from fear and anxiety; they no longer have legal mastery over our souls – unless we let them rule.

We must not allow fear and anxiety to rule in our lives. We must first recognize the voices of the enemy – spirits of fear, rejection, accusation, and more. We must then repent from coming into agreement with these evil spirits and begin to hate evil with a perfect hatred. Then we must renounce the presence of these demonic beings in our lives and cast them away in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Ask for and receive forgiveness from your heavenly Father for having come into agreement with the lies of the devil.

As we submit to God and resist the devil, we will experience the peace of God that surpasses all human understanding. In our union with His resurrection, we have been given open access to perfect peace. How do we abide in this peace as a daily, lived experience? We do it by keeping our minds, wills, and emotions fixed on Christ and living lives of repentance from sin. Whenever your thoughts or emotions stray from the Prince of Peace, recognize the temptation of the evil one. If your heart has already come into agreement with his evil suggestions, simply receive forgiveness and return to the heart of your Beloved, which is found in His Word.

Despite the Storms...

Ponder the promise in Isaiah 26:3-4, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength."

We must never doubt that God is good and that He does good. Instead, we must be confident that "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him" (Nahum 1:7).

This is the Rock on which we can stand when the storms come our way – and they will indeed come (see Matthew 7:24-27).

Despite the storms, however, God's plans and purposes for you are wonderful. Jeremiah 29:11 says: "'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,' says the Lord, 'thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.'"

You must distinguish between the truths of God and the facts of your existence – and choose to trust the Lord, no matter what you perceive or feel. Look not at the facts of your life, and do not place your emotions upon the facts of your life but upon the truths of these marvelous Scriptures. Then you will abide in peace. Instead of worry and anxiety, recall this to mind: "The Lord's compassion and mercies are overwhelming. When I recall this, I have hope. I am not consumed because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness!" (Lamentations 3:20-24)

Your battleground is not the circumstances of your life. The true battleground of the enemy is in your mind, will, and emotions. Keeping your thoughts and heart focused on good things will prevent darkness from overtaking your soul:

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you." (Philippians 4:8-9)

Paul wrote, "Be anxious for nothing..." (Philippians 4:6). We must stay focused on Christ and His unchangeable Kingdom if we are to have abiding peace during these days of chaos:

"But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" (Matthew 6:33-34).

There is no greater warfare than our abiding with the Prince of Peace. The God of peace will crush our foe under our feet (see Romans 16:20). The moment you feel the loss of peace, repent and ask for the Forgiver Himself to flood you with His peace. Have no doubt – He will bring peace because He always keeps His promises.

Stay in HIM – stay at peace!

Bobby Conner
Eagles View Ministries
Email: manager@bobbyconner.org

Bobby Conner: This "Gentle Giant" is uniquely anointed with refreshing humor and razor-sharp prophetic accuracy which has been documented around the world. Bobby's dynamic capacity to release outstanding demonstrations of the miraculous – healings, signs and wonders – reveals the very heart of the Father toward us! Surviving a dramatic abortion attempt by his mother, being rescued again by the hand of God from drug dealing and suicide, the story of Bobby Conner is a display of a man who now walks in his God-ordained destiny to set others free! Highly esteemed as an internationally acclaimed conference speaker, Bobby has ministered effectively to over 45 foreign countries as well as here in the States for many years.

Varieties of Tisanes

Anise tea, made from either the seeds or the leaves.
Asiatic penny-wort leaf, in Southeast Asia
Artichoke tea.
Bee Balm
Boldo, used in South America
Cannabis tea, used in the preparation of Bhang
Caraway tea, made from the seeds
Catnip tea is used as a relaxant, sedative, and to calm
Chamomile tea is used as a sedative
Che Dang, very bitter tea made from Ilex causue leaves
Chinese knot-weed tea
Chrysanthemum tea, made from dried flowers, is popular with Chinese Dim sum

Cinnamon
Coffee tea leaves and coffee cherry tea are herbal teas made using the leaves and cherries of the coffee plant; in coffee the coffee beans (seeds) are instead used.
Cerasse, a bitter Jamaican herb

Dried chamomile blossoms with bits of dried apple and cinnamon, to be used for tea
Citrus peel, including bergamot, lemon and orange peel
Dandelion coffee
Dill tea, often consumed to ease upset stomach
Echinacea tea
Elderberry
European Mistletoe (Viscum album), (steep in cold water for 2–6 hours)
Essiac tea, a blended herbal tea
Fennel
Gentian
Ginger root can be made into an herbal tea, known in the Philippines as salabat

Ginseng tea is a stimulant and can be used as a coffee substitute.
Ginseng, a popular tea in China and Korea
Goji, a popular and very simple to prepare tea
Hawthorn
Hibiscus (often blended with rose hip), a popular tea alternative in the Middle East which is drunk hot or cold. Hibiscus tea is also consumed in Okinawa, where the natives associate Hibiscus tea with longevity.
Ho Yan Hor Herbal Tea, a herbal tea recipe formulated by Malaysian Chinese
Honeybush is related to rooibos and grows in a similar area of South Africa, but tastes slightly sweeter
Horehound
Houttuynia
Hydrangea tea, dried leaves of hydrangeas; considerable care must be taken because most species contain a toxin. The "safe" hydrangeas belong to the Hydrangea serrata Amacha ("sweet tea") Cultivar Group.

Jiaogulan, (also known as xiancao or poor man's ginseng)

Kapor tea, dried leaves of fireweed

Kava root, from the South Pacific, is popular for its effects in promoting talkativeness and relaxation

Kratom, dried leaves of the Kratom tree, drank for its medicinal and stimulant effects

Ku Ding tea, a bitter tisane found in Chinese herbal medicine

Kuzuyu, is a thick white Japanese tea made by adding arrowroot powder to hot water

Labrador tea, made from the shrub by the same name, found in the northern part of North America.
Lapacho (also known as Taheebo) is the inner-lining of the bark (or cambium) of the Red or Purple Lapacho Tree which grows in the Brazilian jungles. It is boiled to make an infusion with many and varied health benefits.


Lemon Balm
Lemon and ginger tea
Lemon grass
Luo han guo
Licorice root

Lime blossom, dried flowers of lime tree (Tilia in Latin).

Mate (or yerba mate) is a shrub grown mainly Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil from which a caffeinated, tea-like brew is prepared.

Mate de coca (sometimes called "coca tea"), made from coca leaves. Authentic mate de coca contains very small amounts of cocaine and similar alkaloids. In some countries where coca is illegal, products marketed as "coca tea" are supposed to be decocainized, i.e., the pharmacologically active components have been removed from the leaf using the same chemicals used in manufacturing cocaine.

Mint, especially peppermint (also mixed with green tea to make mint tea)

Mountain Tea, a very popular tea in the Balkans and other areas of the Mediterranean region. Made from a variety of the Sideritis syriaca plant which grows in warm climates above 3,000 feet. Records of its use date back 2,000 years.

Neem leaf
Nettle leaf
Noni tea
Oksusu cha (옥수수 차), traditional roasted corn tea found in Korea.
Pennyroyal leaf, an abortifacient
Pine tea, or tallstrunt, made from needles of pine trees is high in vitamins A and C
Qishr, Yemeni drink with coffee husks and ginger.
Red clover tea
Red raspberry leaf

Roasted barley tea, known in Japanese as mugicha and Korean as bori cha. The roasted flavor can be reminiscent of coffee (without coffee's bitterness and caffeine). It is often drunk cold in the summer.

Roasted wheat is used in Postum, a coffee substitute.

Rooibos (Red Bush) is a reddish plant used to make an infusion and grown in South Africa. In the US it is sometimes called red tea. It has many of the antioxidant benefits of green tea, but because it does not come from tea leaves, it has no caffeine.

Rose hip (often blended with hibiscus)

Roselle petals (species of Hibiscus; aka Bissap, Dah, etc.), consumed in the Sahel and elsewhere.
Rosemary

Sagebrush, California Sagebrush
Sage
Sakurayu is a Japanese herbal tea made with pickled cherry blossom petals.
Salvia
Sassafras roots were steeped to make tea and were used in the flavoring of root beer until being banned by the FDA.
Scorched rice, known as hyeonmi cha in Korea
Skullcap
Serendib (tea), a tea from Sri Lanka

Sobacha
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) leaves used to make a tea by some native peoples of eastern North America
Spruce tea, made from needles of spruce trees is high in vitamin C
Staghorn sumac fruit can made into a lemonade.
Stevia can be used to make herbal tea, or as a sweetener in other tisanes.
St. John's Wort can be used as a herbal anti-depressant.
Thyme Antiseptic, used in lysterine.
Tulsi, or Holy Basil, in English
Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as Cat's Claw
Valerian Sedative.
Verbena (Vervains)

Vetiver
Wax gourd in East Asia and Southeast Asia.
Wong Lo Kat, a herbal tea recipe from Canton, China since Ching Dynasty
Woodruff
Yarrow
Yerba Mate Popular in South America. Scientific name Ilex paraguariensis.

Tisanes

Etymologically the word 'tisane' originates from the Greek work - ptisanē πτισάνη. The drink was made from pearl barley. Liang Cha - Chinese: 涼茶; Mandarin Pinyin: liáng chá, is the Chinese word that means cooling tea. The concept comes out of TCM where the body is cooled down when it is overheated due to weather or sickness by drinking herbal mixtures.

Tisanes are herbal teas made from edible plants. The parts used are leaves, flowers, grains, berries, fruits, and rinds of fruits, stems, bark or roots. The plant material is made into an infusion or decocted or brewed. Tisanes are not caffeinated therefore is ideal for caffeine sensitive individuals or for a late night beverage. Tisanes are not made from the Camellia Sinensis. Although there are blends that use herbs with the Camellia Sinensis - however they are not classified as tisanes because it contains caffeine.

Tisanes are usually made hot but can be made into an ice cold beverage. They are usually used for therapeutic reasons but not limited to that category. Ideal for children as it is caffeine free and can be rather nice introduction and substitute for sodas and sugary drinks. Tisanes can be sweetened with honey although there are blends that are fruity and naturally sweet like Chamomile.

Tisanes, Tea, Caffeine and Me

The caffeine content in some teas depend on the class of teas.

Knowing your green tea is important.
The most prized part of the tea leaves are the terminal buds and the adjacent 2 to 3 leaves.
This is called the tea flush.
They are the most naturally sweetest part of the plant and also contain caffeine.
The highest grade teas are made from this part of the tea pickings.
Japanese green tea has more caffeine than dark teas like Pu Errh and Lapsang Souchong.
Recommended consumption of caffeine products are no more than 300 milligrams per day.
The caffeine content in tea has been found to be a better and steady
source of stimulation when compared to coffee, soft drinks or chocolate.
Common side effects (nervousness, headaches) associated with consumption
of caffeine from tea are few and rare.
Use high quality loose tea leaves.
They allow for you to adjust the strength of the tea according
 to your taste preference and caffeine tolerance.
Caffeine content lost in the first 5 minutes of the first infusion is 70% .
However, the length of this first infusion can effect the strength
 of the second infusion and the subsequent infusions.
The up side to this blander taste in the following infusions is the caffeine content gets significantly lower.
Tisanes are a great alternative to caffeine sensitivity.
flower and herbal infusions do not contain caffeine but has all the benefits of antioxidants.

Some pointers to consider about caffeine

1. Knowing your caffeine sensitivity and level of tolerance.
2. Avoid tea in tea bags.
They are of inferior quality and are made of tea sweepings.
They also contain far more caffeine.
3. Begin with half a cup of tea.
1 cup usually contains between 15 to 75 milligrams of caffeine.
Smaller doses are easily monitored.
Increasing gradually according to your reaction to caffeine.
4. Brewing the tea a little weaker in strength can help you build your caffeine tolerance.
Rule of thumb is 1 -2 tsp per cup for a normal cup. Cut that in 1/4 to 1/2 tsp.
Increase it with time.
5. Brew it the traditional way.
Throw away the first infusion.
This first infusion soaks up
about 70% of the caffeine in this first infusion.
6. Drinking hot tea is better than cold tea.
The antioxidants catechins binds in hot water and lessens the caffeine's effectiveness.
Cool or cold tea breaks the catechins down and more caffeine is released.
7. If your sensitivity is still high, drink tisanes.
They are made of flowers and herbs.
The antioxidant levels are just as high if not higher than green teas minus the caffeine effects.

Tai Chi Chuan

The study of Tai Chi Chuan primarily involves three aspects:

Health: 

An unhealthy or otherwise uncomfortable person may find it difficult to meditate to a state of calmness or to use Tai Chi as a martial art. Tai Chi's health training, therefore, concentrates on relieving the physical effects of stress on the body and mind. For those focused on t'ai chi's martial application, good physical fitness is an important step towards effective self-defense.

Meditation: 

The focus and calmness cultivated by the meditative aspect of Tai Chi is seen as necessary in maintaining optimum health (in the sense of relieving stress and maintaining homeostasis) and in application of the form as a soft style martial art.

Martial art: 

The ability to use Tai Chi as a form of self-defense in combat is the test of a student's understanding of the art. Tai Chi Chuan is the study of appropriate change in response to outside forces, the study of yielding and "sticking" to an incoming attack rather than attempting to meet it with opposing force. The use of t'ai chi as a martial art is quite challenging and requires a great deal of training.

 

Tai Chi is a centuries-old Chinese martial art that descends from qigong. An ancient Chinese discipline that has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. According to some records, tai chi dates back as far as 2,500 years! It involves a series of slow, meditative body movements that were originally designed for self-defense and to promote inner peace and calm.  Their movements use internal energy and movements too subtle for most people to observe, reflected in the notion that "four ounces can deflect a thousand pounds." 

 Additional reading:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tai-chi/SA00087

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cTlHy7D4uw

Chi Gong/Qi Gong

 

Qigong, chi kung, or chi gung (气功 or 氣功) (pronounced "chee-gung") is a practice of aligning breath, movement, and awareness for exercise, healing, and meditation. it has its roots in Chinese medicine, martial arts, and philosophy. 

Qigong is traditionally viewed as a practice to balance qi (chi) or what has been translated as "vital life energy."

 Typically a qigong practice involves rhythmic breathing, coordinated with slow stylized repetition of fluid movement, and a calm mindful state.  It is considered by some to be exercise, and by others to be a type of alternative medicine or meditative practice.  From a philosophical perspective qigong is believed to help develop human potential, allow access to higher realms of awareness, and awaken one's "true nature."

Principles of Qi Gong
Intentional movement: careful, flowing balanced style
Rhythmic breathing: slow, deep, coordinated with fluid movement
Awareness: calm, focused medititative state
Visualization: of qi flow, philosophical tenets, aesthetics
Additional principles:
Softness: soft gaze, expressionless face
Solid Stance: firm footing, erect spine
Relaxation: relaxed muscles, slightly bent joints
Balance and Counterbalance: motion over the center of gravity
Advanced goals:
Equanimity: more fluid, more relaxed
Tranquility: empty mind, high awareness
Stillness: smaller and smaller movements, eventually to complete stillness
The most advanced practice is generally considered to be with little or no motion.

Some benefits of Qi Gong:

1. Well-being and improved health. Qigong emphasizes the whole body, whole system health. While it is true that qigong will often cure specific ills, this is not the primary reason for practice. It is not only a matter of adding years to your life, but life to your years.

2. Clear and tranquil mind. When the mind is at peace, the whole universe seems at peace. World peace begins with you; it is your responsibility to find a peaceful heart and mind. Then you can heal and transform others just through your presence. If you have a tranquil mind, you will make better decisions and have the skill to know when to act and when to be still.

3. Deeper, more restorative sleep. Qigong will help you find the deep relaxation and mental quiet necessary for sleep.

4. Increased energy, including sexual vitality and fertility. Qigong people have more energy; it can reverse energy and restore youthfulness.

5. Comfortable warmth. Qigong is great for cold hands and feet. Circulation improves, and the body generates more internal warmth when it is cold.

6. Clear skin. The skin, like the intestines, is an organ of elimination. According to Chinese medicine, as your qigong improves, your body eliminates toxins, and the skin becomes clear.

7. Happy attitude. There is an old Tibetan saying, “You can tell a Yogi by his or her laugh.” Correct and moderate qigong practice usually creates an optimistic and joyous disposition.

8. More efficient metabolism. Digestion improves, and hair and nails grow more quickly.

9. Greater physiological control. This means that aspects of the body that were imbalanced or out of control begin to normalize, for example, breathing rate, heart rate, blood pressure, hormone levels, and states of chronic inflammation or depletion.

10. Bright eyes. The qigong master’s eyes are said to glow in the dark, like a cat’s. The eyes also appear bright because the spirit and soul are luminous and the heart is open.

11. Intuition and creativity. Intuition and creativity generate each other and come from the same source, an awakened brain and being, an ability to think with the gut, to feel with the mind.

12. Spiritual effects. Advancement in qigong is often accompanied by a variety of spiritual experiences. For example, synchronicity, meaningful coincidences, become more common. When the qi is abundant, clear, and flowing, the senses perceive and are permeated by a sweetness.

Reiki 霊気 - Universal Life Healing Energy

Reiki is laying on hands healing. It was rediscovered by a Japanese monk called Mikao Usui. 

This is an ancient form of healing where the Universal Life Force - Chi is utilized by focusing on the area of need. It is a non-invasive technique, utilizing placement of hands on specific areas of the body where the healing energy is focused.

It was brought to the United States by Madame Takata an American of Japanese descent.

Mikao Usui

Practitioners are attuned to the Reiki method of healing. There are 3 degrees of attunement with the third degree being the Master/Teacher Level.

Reiki is a holistic therapy which involves the healing of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. The healing energy is transfered to the recipient. The session of healing involves a whole body session. The individual will not have to disrobe therefore it is an excellent technique for those with modesty concerns.

Some Of The Reiki Healing Health Benefits:
Creates deep relaxation and aids the body to release stress and tension,
It accelerates the bodie's self-healing abilities,
Aids better sleep,
Reduces blood pressure
Can help with accute (injuries) and chronic problems (asthma, eczema, headaches, etc.) and aides the breaking of addictions,
Helps relieve pain,
Removes energy blockages, adjusts the energy flow of the endocrine system bringing the body into balance and harmony,
Assists the body in cleaning itself from toxins,
Reduces some of the side effects of drugs and helps the body to recover from drug therapy after surgery and chemotherapy,
Supports the immune system,
Increases vitality and postpones the aging process,
Raises the vibrational frequency of the body,
Helps spiritual growth and emotional clearing

Acupressure

 

Acupressure is manual acupuncture. The theory and application is from Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

Instead of using needles pressure and stimulation of the acupoints are exerted manually via the thumbs and finger pressure.

The principles of Chi stimulation is the focus to restoring equilibrium and homeostasis to the individual's health. This technique is excellent for people who have a phobia to needles and prefer the comfort of touch.

The acupoints when pressed they release muscular tension, promote the circulation of blood and Chi to induce healing and overall wellbeing. The pressure exerted will range from gentle to firm depending on the comfort level and the tenderness of the acupoints.

Acupressure can be used to treat and alleviate symptoms that are common:

• Headaches
• nausea
• muscular pain
• stomach aches 
• Indigestion
• backaches
• Stress
• pain management

Acupuncture

 

Acupuncture originated with Ayurvedic Medicine but the stronghold for the healing technique is in China. This methodology became part of the ancient Chines culture and has retained much of its practices to present day.

This is a technique that treats the diseases or ailments of the body by manipulating the Chi of the individual. Chi is the Vital Life Force of everything animate and inanimate.

The theory and concept is from Traditional Chinese Medicine that postulates that Chi flows within he body on 12 pairs of Energy Pathways called Meridians. The techniques in itself involves inserting needles into acupuncture points that are located on these meridian pathways. These needles are solid, and the fineness of these needles are like a single strand of hair.  

Classically acupuncture has been used to treat every pathological as well as phsiological and psychological conditions with varied amount of success.