diseases 265
as stroke (see above), while in the chest it is known as pulmonary
thrombosis (asthma can be an additional factor here). Deep vein
thrombosis often comes with no symptoms and can surprise all
concerned; diagnosis can be diffi cult.
The aim is to clear the vessels, reduce the stickiness of blood platelets
that are clumping together, and strengthen the vascular walls through the
use of calcium and rutin (the latter a component of buckwheat leaves).
Refer to dietary and herbal advice for heart disease and the circulatory
system, because it is crucial that you ensure that you have good
circulation. Seek professional advice as well.
~ Exercise and generally engage in sensible activities. For the bedrid-
den, this can be a serious problem, so massage will be vital.
~ If you smoke^ —^ Stop.
~ If the infl ammation or phlebitis itself is visible, use an external poul-
tice made with equal parts of tincture of oak bark, horse chestnut, and
comfrey leaf, plus a few drops of lavender essential oil in a little St.
John’s wort fl ower oil. It should be used ice-cold, so make the mixture
strong, and then put it in the freezer. Apply twice daily for ten min-
utes. Depending on the cause of the phlebitis, other essential oils
could be chosen.
~ Take regular hydrotherapy and use a slant board.
tinnitus and ménière’s disease
Tinnitus is a fairly common condition that involves ringing or buzzing in
the ears. It may be accompanied by dizziness, nausea, and balance
problems. It may develop from an infection, an obstruction, an accident,
or excessively noisy environments.
Symptoms of Ménière’s syndrome include variable loss of hearing, loss
of balance, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. It is an inner-ear problem
affecting one or both ears. Many believe it is rooted in the nervous
system, while others believe it is a metabolic imbalance related to
hypoglycemia. Others suggest that poor circulation and inadequate blood
fl ow to the brain are to blame. Both conditions are initially treated in
exactly the same way. According to the speed of recovery, treatment is
either short-term or longer-term, up to nine months.
- Maintain or develop a good diet with no dairy or wheat products; eat
wholesome, nerve-feeding foods in small but frequent meals. Avoid
tea and coffee. - Superfood will be invaluable for keeping good blood sugar levels and
supplying plenty of B vitamins.
265 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition