Can Flowers Affect Mood and Depression? A Rutgers Study Says "Yes"

The presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manner far beyond what is normally believed, according to a recent behavioral research study conducted at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

Nature provides us with a simple way to improve emotional health in a high-tech, fast-paced lifestyle.

Researchers exploring the link between flowers and life satisfaction found that:

o Flowers have an immediate effect on happiness, a universal reaction that occurs in all age groups.

o Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Study participants said they felt less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers.

o Flowers make intimate connections. The presence of flowers led to increased contact with family and friends.

"Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy," said Dr. Jeannette Haviland-Jones, professor of psychology at Rutgers and lead researcher on the study. "Now science shows us that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well-being."

Popular flowers this year are pale pink or green hydrangea, fragrant peonies combined with tree ivy, and, bright, cheerful Gerbera daisies in yellow, orange, white, pink or red.

Many customers like to pick their own vase rather than order the vase with flowers and give separately; a popular one being a simple square, clear vases give a contemporary look to arrangements. Tulips or other flowers are used as fillers in place of greenery, and foam is not widely used as a base. If floral foam is needed to stabilize heavier arrangements, it is available in colors other than the once-common dark green.

It's really not necessary to spend $80 or $100 for a floral bouquet. Even quality glamorous, arrangements are available for $29 to $49. They can be delivered for an additional charge.

Professional florists help share the milestones of people's lives through flowers, and we help the sender choose the right bouquet. A seasoned florist with a web site offers flower history and trivia to allow the sender to know what the "Language Of Certain Flowers" actually means.

Flowers come from all over the world - fresh, showy flowers that will last a long time.

Plants that keep giving
"This Old House" contractor Roger Cook offers some suggestions outside of traditional cut bouquets.

"It's the height of spring, and there are gifts that have all the fragrance, variety and style of cut flowers but will come back year after year," Cook said.

His top picks:

o Rose garden gifts. Create a rose garden gift instead of giving a bouquet of cut roses. Your local garden center can provide you with everything you need for a beginner's rose garden.

o Ivy. For this nice, low-maintenance option, choose from indoor and outdoors varieties with lush green leaves for a clean, fresh look.

o Herb garden. Create your custom-picked herbs. Imagine what your mom likes to cook and eat, and go from there.

o Geraniums. These are bright and beautiful in red, coral or white. You can fill hanging baskets or pots.

Marianna's SOS Flowers co-owner Rick London says that red or pink roses remain an all time
favorite, but close runners-up include irises, tulips, carnations and geraniums.

SEO professional and cartoonist Rick London is founder of Londons Times Cartoons which has been Google's #1 ranked offbeat cartoon since 2005. He is also co-founder of the full-service web design and a professional SEO company [http://www.penandinkinc.com] Pen And Ink Inc, which he founded with his fiance Lee Hiller who is Google's #1 ranked America's Favorite Love Columnist. Both London and Hiller are syndicated by Great Southern Writer's Syndicate.

By Rick London

A Deep Breathing Technique to Make You Sleep Like a Baby

If you're looking for suggestions to sleep better, here's a deep breathing technique to do in bed that puts you to sleep every time. Deep breathing relaxes your mind - an overactive mind is often the cause of bad sleep and the inability to switch off. This particular deep breathing technique forces you to focus on your breathing by counting your breaths - every time you lose count you penalize your mind by counting over again. The combination of slow, deep breathing and forced focusing of your mind quickly puts you to sleep. It takes a little practice though, especially if you have chronic sleep problems, so be patient. Here's how to do it:

Sleep Inducer - Deep Breathing Technique

1. Lie in bed on your back with your hands by your sides or resting on your abdomen. Your body should be flat, so if you have a high pillow, remove it. Breathe slowly, smoothly and deeply through your nose throughout the exercise. As you breathe in gently expand your abdomen; as you breathe out, let your abdomen fall back into place - this ensures true, deep breathing.

2. All you have to do is mentally count your breaths up to ten. You can either count your inhalations or your exhalations. Here's the catch though - every time your mind wanders and you lose count, you must start from one again. Each time you reach ten, start at one again. Continue like this and you will fall asleep.

Do this every night whether you have sleep problems or not, as it will also improve the quality of your sleep and most likely reduce the amount of sleep you need.

More Suggestions to Sleep Better

• Don't have a big dinner and/or eat just before bed, especially hot, spicy foods or coffee (all of which are too stimulating)
• Don't engage in heated discussions or arguments before bed
• Don't have a tv or computer in your bedroom
• If you must bring your work home, stop at least 1-2 hours before bed
• Exchange a back and/or foot massage with your partner before bed

Matthew Scott is a Chinese Medicine practitioner from Australia, living in China since 2000. Matthew has a Better Sleep Program on downloadable video containing classic Chinese self-help techniques to help you unwind at night and sleep soundly.

By Matthew Scott

Ovarian Cyst Ultrasound Scanning - What is It?

Ovarian cyst ultrasound scanning sounds frightening to some. If you're contemplating taking an ovarian cyst ultrasound, you'll be glad to know that there's pretty much nothing you need to be afraid of. You won't be cut or injected or operated on, and you won't be subjected to pain. You'll just have your skin smeared with a lubricating jelly to improve contact between the probe and your body. So you can rest assured that your upcoming ovarian cyst ultrasound scans will be fairly easy and painless. The whole scan usually takes less than 45 minutes.

With that out of the way, what does an ovarian cyst ultrasound scanning comprise of? At its very basic, an ultrasound scan simply uses sound to get an image of what is in your body. The frequency of this sound is so high that our ears are not able to hear it. This sound can pass through our skin and soft tissues easily but gets reflected when it hits denser organs. This reflected sound is what is captured on the monitor screen.

This is done with an ultrasound probe which your doctor will use to point at various areas of your body. A probe is like a big pen and it is connected to the ultrasound machine. As the probe gently moves, you can see the image of the various internal organs on the monitor. So basically, a very rudimentary analogy is to think of your ovarian cyst ultrasound scan as taking an X-Ray. However, instead of ending up with an X-Ray film sheet, you actually see the organs in your body on a small monitor screen next to the bed.

If you have an ovarian cyst or even the PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), your doctor may advise you to take an ovarian cyst ultrasound scan. This sometimes happen if your doctor detects some swelling during your routine pelvic examinations. If you have an ovarian cyst, ultrasound scanning can tell you its location, size and if it is filled with solids or fluids. So it's a good diagnosis tool for those who suspect they may have ovarian cysts or PCOS.

If you are reading this brief beginner's introduction because you are curious but do not yet have ovarian cysts or PCOS, then you may want to increase your likelihood of avoiding these altogether. One easy and sometimes even free way is to learn about natural healing principles that can help maintain your body's immune system and overall balance. It is often when the body is out of balance that conditions like ovarian cysts occur. Apply some of these principles (you get to pick and choose what you are comfortable with) and you will start seeing marked improvements in your overall health and happiness.

On the other hand, if you already have ovarian cysts, please flip through my other articles on ways to naturally help reduce pain and even help quicken the healing of the ovary through natural healing principles. Good Luck!

Brian M Lee is a firm believer and practitioner in holistic healing and natural healthy living. If you are concerned about ovarian cysts and want to know the specific steps you can take to make things better, click this link: [http://www.ovariancystsecrets.info] now. You will find easy to understand information about ovarian cysts and a painless, natural step-by-step programme to heal yourself. The programme also comes with a free 24 Hour email counseling by a certified nutritionist.

By Brian M Lee

Top 4 Special Services You Never Thought Your Family Dentist Could Do In the Office

There are Family Dentist procedures available that most people never dream about. People imagine a dentist only pulling teeth but there are numerous services performed by those in the dental profession. Below is a list of the top 4 services that people often do not know their family doctor can offer!

Dental Surgeries

If a person has serious injury to the mouth, maxillofacial surgeons can correct these defects. A process of braces and surgeries may be used to straighten out the problem. Some people are born with dental issues, while others may have experienced some other misfortune for the issue to arise, luckily most dental damages can be corrected with the help of skilled family dentist specialist. If you are experiencing headaches or noticing unusual wear on your teeth, a dentist may be able to help you in these situations as well. Root canals, extractions, an impacted wisdom tooth or snoring and sleep apnea, are all areas that the dental industry has expanded into. As well, family dentists are now able to find and treat cysts that may form under untreated wisdom teeth and other abnormal growths, improving patient care.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

A dental procedure might be fairly routine for some, but for others the procedures can be frightening. Dentists give these patients a choice of Nitrous Oxide sedation (Laughing Gas). Patients may wait for years before seeing a Dentist due to past emotional trauma, but with new methods, individuals can put their fears aside and receive treatment while asleep under nitrous oxide sedation.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis is also offered at select Family dentist facilities. Not all patients are open for nitrous oxide sedation, and may opt to allow a form of hypnosis to relax the patient prior to procedure.

Gum Disease Treatment

Early stages of gum disease can be treated and reversed by a periodontal specialist. Gum disease can damage the gums to the point that teeth literally loosen in the mouth. This is not only dangerous to the mouth but the rest of the body, as it can lead to dangerous illnesses. A qualified family dentist can help your health by treating your gums, in both a preventative and remedial form.

These days, family dentist services are a bit more involved and are usually scheduled by appointment. Nowadays a family dentist has a number of specialties to offer their patients all under one roof, thus helping patients protect their dental health and have the best smile possible.

Mariah Hart writes primarily Health articles. For more information from the trusted experts, please visit Your Smile Dental Care to learn more about family dentist.

By Mariah A Hart

Seasonal Affective Disorder - How To Overcome The "Winter Blues"

As winter approaches, we seem to be plagued by two new realities - the days get colder and they get shorter. Dealing with the cold is relatively easy, add more layers of clothing, curl up in a blanket, take a warm bath, etc. However, dealing with the days getting shorter can be more problematic. For some individuals they not only suffer from the lack of motivation that many individuals face during this time but they also suffer from seasonal affective disorder or SAD. So what is SAD exactly?

SAD is a type of depression that recurs every year, usually starting in fall and continues on through winter. (Note: although there are cases of spring/summer SAD, this article will focus on autumn/winter SAD). Some of the symptoms associated are depression, feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, loss of energy, oversleeping, cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain, loss of interest in current activities, and difficulty concentrating. And while having a subset of these symptoms for a day or two is completely normal, having these symptoms for multiple days in a row is not.

So what causes SAD in the first place? There are a number of different reasons why you might be affected by SAD, but the most common reason especially during the winter is that the days get shorter thus meaning a lot less sunlight during the day. How does the lack of sunshine affect your mood? This has to do with the balance of serotonin to melatonin production. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter (derived from the amino acid tryptophan) located in your gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system, and platelets. It is commonly associated as the "feel good" neurotransmitter since it is often decreased in individuals suffering from depression. This particular neurotransmitter is also light sensitive in that it is stimulated by bright light (think sunshine!) Melatonin on the other hand is a hormone that is best known for its properties in aiding sleep and is stimulated by the dark. So now imagine the days get shorter, so there is less sunlight during the day, less stimulation of serotonin (your "feel good neurotransmitter"), but instead there is more darkness so more stimulation of melatonin (your "sleep hormone"). With that combination you end up more tired and less happy = perfect predisposition to SAD. No wonder so many people from SAD!

So what can you do to prevent SAD or at least help with the management of SAD? The most popular method to prevent/treat SAD is using phototherapy (or light therapy). Which means exposing yourself to a "SAD lamp" first thing in the morning, the time that we would normally be exposed to light during the summer (or longer days) to allow our body to shut off melatonin production and activate our serotonin production. Note however, that you can't achieve this with just any type of lamp. You actually need to have a lamp that has the appropriate light spectrum to mimic true sunlight in order to be effective. Besides using a SAD lamp, diet can play a very large role in regulating mood (as well as increasing serotonin production). In this case, eating tryptophan rich foods can help in the production of serotonin as it is required in its production. Foods high in tryptophan include: fish, poultry, soybeans (choose non-GMO), and lamb. Also important are making sure that you're eating foods high in vitamin B3, B5, B6 and methionine (an amino acid) since these molecules are required helping make the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin. Foods high in B3, B6 and methionine include poultry, fish, nuts and seeds, while foods high in B5 include avocado and yogourt (if tolerated).

If you're following these dietary guidelines and using a SAD lamp and still can't seem to manage your symptoms or are interested in finding out more information on how to overcome SAD, please call Dr. V to book an appointment.

Are you or someone you know suffering from SAD? If so, contact Dr. V and find out how you can prevent and treat SAD.

Dr. Véronic Provencher MSc ND (aka Dr. V) is a Naturopathic Doctor working out of Wellness Within within the Enjoy Centre in St. Albert, Alberta. Dr. V is currently accepting new patients in the Greater Edmonton Area (including, but not limited to, St. Albert, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Sherwood Park).

By Veronic Provencher

Aphrodisiacs - Increasing Sexual Desire and Capacity

Are you among the millions of people worldwide who are otherwise healthy but who've lost interest in sex? Do you find it boring and routine? Are you so tired that you'd rather nap than make love? Do you think TV is more stimulating than your partner? Do you have physical symptoms, like vaginal dryness or difficulty with erection, that make sex unpleasant?

As a relationship matures it is common, but definitely not necessary, for sex to become predictable and unexciting. One of the first places to start improving your sex life is to elevate your general mood and increase your energy level. This is good advice not only for improving sex but also for most other things in your life.

According to a survey of 153 doctors conducted by Pharmatron Health Products during July and August of 1998: " Herbal supplements are now entering mainstream medical practice, with one in three primary care doctors recommending them to patients at least weekly, most frequently for people with mood and emotional complaints... About as many doctors recommend herbal supplements for fatigue and lack of energy...Doctors also practice what they preach, with one in four doctors personally consuming herbal supplements."

So, let's assume you have covered the basics. You pay attention to what you eat and take some nutritional supplements. You follow a regular routine for physical fitness. You are reasonably healthy. There are no organic health problems interfering with your sexual performance, or you have consulted a physician and they are being treated allopathically with drugs. (Note that many prescription drugs are known to interfere with sexual desire and performance. If you are taking any prescription medication, ask your doctor about such side effects. It may be possible to prescribe a different medication that won't interfere with your sex life. )

If you are not doing these things, you may consider changing your habits before you experiment with aphrodisiacs. Regular exercise, good diet and basic nutritional supplements may be all you need to revitalize you sex life.

Ideally we could also assume that you have set aside old beliefs and conditioning about your sexuality. You have moved beyond shame and guilt. You have had help in dealing with any sexual abuse or trauma. You understand and believe that sex is natural, good and wondrous. If you lack sexual skill and technique, and your imagination fails to motivate you to experiment by trying new things, perhaps a workshop or some private coaching is in order.

Even if you have done all of these things, perhaps you are still looking for more and wonder if aphrodisiacs might be it. They are definitely worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of them may have side effects for some people. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. If you do decide to use them, start out slowly and experiment carefully to see how each of them works for you. Try them one at a time to see what each one does on its own and how your body responds to its use before you consume several at the same time.

What are Aphrodisiacs?
An aphrodisiac is something that increases your libido. It turns you on and increases your desire to have sex, or it may reduce your usual inhibitions about sex. Aphrodisiacs may also improve your ability to have sex. This means that under the right circumstances, almost anything could have aphrodisiac qualities, but most people think of something to eat or drink when they think of aphrodisiacs.

Aphrodisiacs are never an alternative to healthy sexual attitude, doing your inner work to remove psychological barriers to sexual intimacy, or sexual skill mastery, but they can be lots of fun.

Aphrodisiacs may also be exactly what is needed when sexual dysfunction is caused by physiological/organic causes, e.g., peripheral vascular disease, hardening of the penile arteries, diabetes mellitus, prostate enlargement, high levels of pituitary gland hormone prolactin, low testosterone, menopause and andropause (the male's version of menopause).

What do you already know about aphrodisiac herbs? Here is a short aphrodisiac quiz. The answers to the questions are at the end of the article.

Aphrodisiac Quiz

1. Which aphrodisiac could you say this about? "Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation." And, "has a reputation for producing electrifying sexual encounters..."

2. What amino acid will help relax the smooth muscles in your genitals and enable a man to maintain an erection?

3. Which hormone precursor did homerun hitting Mark McGwire help make famous?

4. Which Greek Goddess does the name aphrodisiacs come from?

5. What berry provides protection for the prostate gland?

6. Which natural adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, helps balance all the other hormones in the body, for both men and women, and has dramatic effects on improving memory?

7. What topical cream can be used by menopausal women as part of a natural approach to hormone replacement, to help balance an estrogen dominance, assist in reducing bone loss and to build new bones?

8. Which nutritional supplement can help you to stop worrying and be happy now? Hint: It is commonly misspelled as Wart.

9. Which natural sedative available as a nutritional supplement can help you get a really good night's sleep with no morning after effects so you've got the energy for lovemaking?

10. Which Mexican herb is "reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime?"

11. Which adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, can increase your energy level, enhance your sex drive, decrease body fat, reduce stress and reduce ill effects of stress, enhance memory function, extend lifespan, and improve your immune function all at the same time?

12. There is an antioxidant that improves circulation and "can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection." It is also well known for enhancing short-term memory. What is it?

13. Which South American aphrodisiac used in the Amazon and Orinoco basins for centuries, can increase libido, stimulate sensuality, increase sexual pleasure, and is used as a treatment for impotence and frigidity?

Selected Aphrodisiacs

Here is a brief summary of several aphrodisiacs that can enhance your sexual desire, help you experience more pleasure and perform better as a lover. We explain their general properties, how to use them, and where to get them. They may be worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of the substances mentioned may have side effects for some people. Nothing we say here is intended as medical advice. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. Where possible use a product with standardized extract. This means that the product is guaranteed to contain a certain percentage of the active ingredient(s). Consult labels carefully to determine quantities of all ingredients. Follow dosage recommendations on the product label.

Don't let the strange sounding names and exotic places they come from throw you off from considering the use of aphrodisiacs. These items are not any more unusual than many things now part of our regular vocabulary and consumption, for instance, aspirin.

Androstenedione

Available in capsules and spray Androstenedione is naturally occurring in all meat as well as in the Scotch Pine tree. It is a metabolite of the hormones DHEA and progesterone, and is a direct hormonal precursor to testosterone. Androstenedione is short-acting, elevating blood testosterone levels without inhibiting the body's natural testosterone production.

Sexually, Androstenedione will be most helpful for men over 50 and for women in the menopausal cycle, because this is when testosterone levels begin to drop. "Testosterone is... 'the hormone of desire,' the substance that acts on the brain to stimulate sexual interest, sensitivity to sexual stimulation and orgasmic ability in both sexes....The most common complaint associated with declining [testosterone] levels is an otherwise unexplainable loss of sexual enjoyment...." [Source: Testosterone: Not Just For Men, Jane Brody, Pro Health, May/June 1998]

The hard-hitting bat of Mark McGwire with 70 home runs in a single season has put the spotlight on Androstenedione. In an August 1998 interview with Sports Illustrated, McGwire said "the company that supplies me says most of its repeat business is coming from wives and girlfriends who are very satisfied."

Androstenedione is available in spray or capsules. Recommended dosage: For men, one to four sprays (25 mg per spray) per day. For women, up to one spray per day. Capsules typically come in 50mg dosages, which may be too high for women. Women may wish to take only one or two capsules a month. Men who find adrostenedione works for them may take it daily, on an empty stomach at bedtime and/or in the morning or 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.

Long term studies of the effects of this substance have not been done. It is not available in Canada, but is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders.

Yohimbe

This powerful aphrodisiac is extracted from West Africa's Corynanthe Yohimbe tree. For centuries, tribes in this region have used a tea made from the inner bark in their fertility rituals. It may help to stimulate erection and enhance libido and increase physical energy in men and women.

"Most of the current medical literature on yohimbe discusses the treatment of male impotence but an impressive body of anecdotal evidence surrounds the use of yohimbe for making good sex even better." [Source: Better Sex Through Chemistry, John Morgenthaler, Pro Health, May/June 1998]

"Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation." [Source: Viagra: Is The Stampede Misdirected?, Will Block, Life Enhancement, June 1998]

The tincture form is recommended rather than capsules. Take one-half dropper under the tongue and hold for sixty seconds immediately before sexual activity. This is a powerful substance. We do not recommend daily or prolonged use because of possible side effects. Stay clear if you suffer from high blood pressure, heart, kidney or liver disease.

Yohimbe is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders.

Arginine

The amino acid arginine is an immune system enhancer and powerful growth hormone stimulant. It plays a role in many body tasks: wound healing, circulation and sexual function.

In response to sexual stimulation, your body releases nitric oxide (NO) in your genitals. This causes the smooth muscles to relax and blood flows into the penis resulting in erection. Both arginine and ginkgo biloba have both been shown to enhance NO levels in your body. "If sufficient NO is not produced, erection or sexual stimulation does not occur. Arginine is absolutely necessary for the production of NO....Some scientists studying these phenomena have concluded that up to 90% of all impotency can be reversed by NO (and by implication, the use of arginine)." [Source: Dr. Whitaker Wellness Institute Guide To Nutrients, Julian Whitaker M.D., Summer 1998] The new drug Viagra from Pfizer increases blood flow into the penis, or into the vaginal area for women, but this drug has many known side effects and there were 69 confirmed deaths attributed to Viagra use by the fall of 1998!

Arginine should be taken on an empty stomach. You may use it daily and/or 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. Not for use by diabetics, borderline diabetics, pregnant or lactating women, cancer patients or persons who have had ocular or brain herpes. Available in health food stores.

Ginkgo Biloba

The Ginkgo tree is one of the oldest living species on the planet. It has flourished unchanged for over 150 million years has been used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. The leaves and fruit of the Ginkgo tree contain a variety of phytochemicals that have a wide range of clinically proven benefits. Ginkgo significantly increases blood flow to the brain thereby improving cognitive function, memory, alertness and concentration. It also improves peripheral arterial insufficiency (restriction of blood flow to the legs and other extremities, including the genitals).

"Because it improves circulation, it can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection." [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

There are no serious side effects with Ginkgo Biloba. It is available at most health food stores. Large doses over a long period of time can result in irritability and headaches, so take no more than 3 grams daily in capsule or tincture form

Saw Palmetto

For years, berries of the saw palmetto plant have been used to treat bladder and prostate conditions. It helps regulate testosterone levels in both women and men, supports healthy prostate function and is a good source of fatty acids. "Many herbalists regard saw palmetto berries as safe, mild aphrodisiacs; ten to twelve can be eaten daily for a cumulative effect. Their potency is increased when they are combined with damiana." [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

Recommended dosage is 160-320 mg per day of Saw Palmetto. Avoid if pregnant, planning pregnancy or suffering from a disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Available at health food stores.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that may improve sensory and sexual functions as well as boost the immune system, quicken wound healing, and promote skin health. Virtually every man who lives long enough will have a problem with prostate enlargement. A man with prostate irritation will lose most interest in sexual intercourse. Several years ago I began to have prostate discomfort but have completely corrected the problem with a combination of pycnogenol, zinc, and saw palmetto.

Recommended dosage: 50 mg. Daily. High doses may lower HDL cholesterol, cause anemia and weaken immune function. Available at health food stores.

Damiana

This herb from Mexico has been used by both men and women to enhance and regulate the production of sex hormones. It is considered a potent aphrodisiac. "Chemically this plant has been found to contain several alkaloids that directly stimulate the sex organs... Native Mexican women have long drunk an infusion of the herb a couple of hours before retiring to prime themselves for their men. It is reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime." [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

Damiana leaves for tea or making tincture, or tincture already prepared, is available at most health food stores.

Muira Puama

Found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America, Muira Puama has long been used "to stimulate sensuality, as a sexual enhancer, and as a treatment for impotence and frigidity...[it] appears to be milder and without the side effects of [yohimbe]." [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] It is considered effective in restoring libido and treating erectile dysfunction.

For an aphrodisiac drink, mix 2 ounces each of damiana and muira puama tinctures in your favorite adult punch (20 serving size). Muira puama may or may not be available at your local health food store. In the U.S. it is available in tincture and capsule form. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail order.

Natural Progesterone Cream (For Women)

Progesterone plays many roles in the body, one of them is maintaining sex drive. It is particularly important for women in the menopausal cycle. Natural progesterone is identical to what your body produces. It is derived from diosgenin in the wild Mexican yam. Natural progesterones are more biologically active and safer than their unnatural counterparts.

Progesterone is a small fat-soluble molecule, which can be easily absorbed through the skin. It is initially absorbed into the fat layers under the skin, then is diffused into the capillaries where it enters the blood stream as needed. This makes transdermal progesterone 100% bioavailable to the body. In contrast, oral supplementation of progesterone has to be taken in very high dosages to compensate for the almost 90% which will be excreted by the liver.

Use 1/4 to 3/4 teaspoon in the morning, applied to the softer parts of the body (for better absorption). Rotate the application spot on a daily basis. Because natural progesterone is identical to the body's own progesterone there are no known side effects at 20-40 mg/day. Very large dosages can result in feelings of sleepiness. Available by mail order from suppliers listed.

Pregnenolone

A supplement derived from diosgenin, the Mexican yam extract, pregnenolone is the building block for all other hormones. Produced by the body's adrenal glands, Pregnenolone may be one of our most important hormones because it seems to have a balancing effect in bringing the levels of other hormones up or down as needed. Pregnenolone is a direct precursor of both DHEA and progesterone. Pregnenolone levels dramatically drop after age 30. Research indicates that restoration of Pregnenolone to levels of healthy young adults may have dramatic positive effects on memory, mood and energy, and sexual function. Pregnenolone can be taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach to mimic the body's normal rhythm. Recommended dosage: 10-100 mg per day. Adjust the dosage to your needs. Safety has been long established--it was used for arthritis treatment back in the 40s at very high doses with no apparent side effects.

It is available at most health food stores and can be ordered via mail.

DHEA

DHEA (de-hydro-epi-andro-sterone) is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands. It is usually the most abundant adrenal hormone in the body, but with age (or certain disease conditions) the levels drop. Lower levels of DHEA are associated with many of the diseases associated with aging and people with naturally higher levels are found to have lower incidence of some of these diseases (cancer, for example).

In his Wellness Institute Guide to Nutrients Dr. Julian Whitaker notes "I give DHEA to about 80% of my patients over 40 because of its health-enhancing and anti-aging benefits."

Dosage: most people over 25 can take 25 - 50 mg per day in the morning with food. This amount will bring your DHEA levels back up to the normal range for the average 25-year-old. Check with mail order suppliers.

St. John's Wort

This popular supplement has been shown to have antidepressive and antiviral properties. New research shows that St. John's Wort may actually increase serotonin production. I have a tendency to be a little hyperactive. I have never been diagnosed with adult ADD, but I find that taking St. John's Wort 3-4 times per week takes the edge off my being speedy very nicely.

Look for St. John's Wort containing 0.3% standardized hypericin extract. Avoid if pregnant or planning pregnancy. May cause photo-sensitivity so avoid strong sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light (like "tanning booths") when taking St. John's Wort. Available in most health food stores.

Valerian

Getting a good nights sleep does wonders for your sex life! Valeriana officinalis, a natural sedative that may be helpful for insomnia, leaves no morning after effects. Take just before going to bed.

Available in tablets or loose tea form at health food stores. High doses may cause paralysis and a weakening of the heartbeat. Like any sedative, may become habit-forming if used for an extended period of time. Avoid if pregnant. Available in most health food stores.

INTERNET and MAIL ORDER SOURCES of Products

Life Extension Foundation:
http://www.lef.org/cgi-local/welcome.cgi/id=151061148

Vitamin Research Products (VRP): http://www.vrp.com/default.asp?vMBR=467976

Quiz Answers

1. Yohimbe

2. Arginine

3. Androstenedione

4. Aphrodite (Venus in the Roman pantheon)

5. Saw Palmetto

6. Pregnenolone

7. Natural Progesterone Cream

8. St. John's Wort

9. Valerian

10. Damiana

11. DHEA

12. Ginkgo Biloba

13. Muira Puama

Al Link and Pala Copeland own and operate 4 Freedoms Relationship Tantra. They regularly host Tantra Sacred Loving weekends near Ottawa Canada, and weeklong retreats in exotic locations around the planet. For more information call toll free from Canada or USA: 1-800-684-5308 International long distance: 1-819-689-5308. Visit their website http://www.tantra-sex.com/ or send email: 4freedoms@tantraloving.com Their book, Soul Sex: Tantra for Two, is published by New Page Books, 2003. http://www.tantra-sex.com/soulsex.html

By Al Link

My Personal Experience And The Knee Replacement Operation

This article is the result of a request by my physiotherapist to tell my readers how I felt and what I experienced at each step of the way from the start of the process up until the very day I write this article 7 months after the operation and well into the recovery phase. He felt the sharing of how I felt would help new patients realise that their symptoms and feelings were just like mine and all was going as it should.

How I felt before the operation

In the weeks just before the operation, the following symptoms or feelings were all occurring constantly:

1. a pain or ache was always present often around the knee cap;

2. the knee, calf and ankle remained swollen;

3. the sciatic nerve was uncomfortable;

4. getting in and out of the car was difficult;

5. walking up and down stairs was becoming difficult;

6. At night, at about 8.30 pm., I would suffer restless legs for at least 30 minutes.

7. Often my feet seemed to be hot.

8. My feet/legs would feel uncomfortable in bed and keep me awake. So, to sleep at night, I found I needed to wear socks even in the summer.

9. Sometimes, I could only sleep on those nights if I sat in a reclining lounge chair.

10. My big toe on my right foot often felt uncomfortable or ached. It, too, kept me awake.

What was my leg like before the operation?

1. I was bandy because I was unable to extend my right knee/leg fully.

2. My leg was swollen.

3. Sitting for any length of time created stiffness in the leg.

4. In bed, I could only get comfortable enough to sleep if I lay on my right side.

What I and my leg looked like after the operation

When I awoke in recovery after the operation, I was attached to all sorts of wires and tubes. My right leg was padded and enclosed in a pressure bandage. It was obviously swollen. My left leg, too, had a pressure bandage. My right leg was raised.

How I felt after the operation:

I felt

1. Itchy;

2. Strung up(with tubes and wires);

3. Lethargic;

4. Nauseous;

5. Groggy and half awake.

How I felt on leaving the hospital

I felt confident I was on the road to a quick recovery. My specialist was extremely pleased with my progress. My balance was good. The wound was healing well.

The pain had subsided dramatically. It seemed my pain level was lower than is the case for some other patients.

What could I do when I left hospital?

I could walk with only one crutch. I was able to walk up stairs easily but I had to put both feet on each step when walking down the stairs. Walking down required more effort and care than walking up. It was hard to get the knee to bend going down the stairs.

I could shower without any great difficult except for washing my right foot. It required me to bend over to wash it as I could not bend the leg up enough to reach it.

In the toilet, rising from the pedestal after doing a motion required me to push down on the pedestal with both hands to rise up to my feet.

Getting in and out of bed caused no real problem. Turning over in bed was. I needed to be careful of my right leg in bed when sleeping on my side. The weight of my left leg often made the right leg uncomfortable. Conversely, even the right leg on the left leg created the same feeling. (I have mild sleep apnoea so I am unable to sleep on my back.)

Dressing was a problem. I found it difficult to put on my briefs, shorts and slacks. Putting my socks and shoes were difficult. I had to use a shoe horn to get my right shoe on. To do all of these things I often sat on the bed or a chair.

Sitting in a lounge chair was difficult because it was difficult to stand up. So I sat in a stout plastic chair to watch television. That chair could also have been used in the shower if my balance was poor.

What is it like now?

At the time of writing, it is seven months after the operation. I believe I'm now close to the best my knee and leg will get. I walk well as far as the physiotherapist is concerned. I am able to walk 18 holes of golf without pain. I'm tired at the end of golf as I normally was. The knee is still slightly swollen. This may always be the case according to my specialist.

Sometimes after a lot of physical exercise the ankle will feel swollen. But it doesn't look swollen. This often occurs at night and the feeling becomes apparent in the shower.

I walk up and down steps and slopes normally without any pain or problems. Climbing ladders creates no problems.

Occasionally, I'll get a little pain in the knee, middle of the thigh and calf. The kneecap clicks less and less. Kneeling in church provides no pain. Although I still have some trouble getting up from sitting on the ground or kneeling on the ground working in the garden.

The knee causes me no sleeping problems. The exercise programme I have to continue provides no problems. I am able to use a road bike but I keep the seat up high so that I extend my leg fully to avoid any ache from extended bending.

Dressing is becoming easier as time goes by. I no longer use a shoe horn and I can almost put my right shoe on in the same way as my left shoe.

With showering, I'm still bending down to wash the right foot but with much less effort. The bending of the knee is improving all the time.

I am able to run with, dodge and chase my grandchildren without any hassles.

Driving the car was no problem. Initially, just getting in and out of the car as a passenger was a problem. Driving, at first, was awkward. I was only able to drive for 30 minutes at a time before I became so uncomfortable that it became difficult to concentrate. That improves. Now, driving provides no problems.

The problems that I had with my sciatic nerve, my big toe, my restless legs and with my sleeping have all improved dramatically since the operation.

My only hassle is that the knee and leg stiffen up quickly when sitting for any length of time. I continue to take paracetamol each day as directed by my specialist and GP.

Was the whole thing worthwhile?

In a word, "Yes". I think I'm lucky because of the advice I was given to prepare the knee that led to my quicker recovery. I'm happy I persevered with the exercise programme and the bike riding to prepare for the operation.

Final comments:

• It is important to understand that your recovery will be different to others depending on your age, your life style and the severity of the damage to your knee.

• It is a major operation. So you need to realise it takes time to recover from a major operation.

• When you know you need the operation, prepare physically. "Ride the bike".

Our author, Richard (Rick) Boyce has written over 120 articles on the practical aspects of teaching. His whole working life has been about educating people. Thus this article, along with others to be published on getting a knee replacement, is designed to pass on to the reader what he experienced in having his own knee replacement operation. It will give the reader about to have this operation a much clearer picture of what to expect. What excited the writer about creating these articles is that both the specialist and the physiotherapist wanted to have copies of these articles to get the patient's point of view on the whole process.

By Richard D Boyce