Monday, August 17, 2009

Travelling with Medicines or Supplements part 2

Natural supplements
85% of people in USA and Australia have tried natural medicines at one point. Maybe the number is 100% as natural medicines are any substance that exerts a benefit and is from a natural source. This broader understanding of natural medicines would include water, fish, vegetables and fruit!

Natural supplements can bridge gaps that are present in “orthodox” (pharmaceutical/surgical approach to medicine). And are instrumental in keeping a person healthy and disease-free.

Some benefical natural supplements are:
a. immune boosters
During travel your body is highly susceptible to picking up bacteria and viruses. You can take preventative supplements and herbs to boost your immune system or treat yourself with Vitamin C and other herbs if you should come down with something. Prevention is better than cure and any down time is valuable. Take preventative measures if you fly/drive regularly.

b. energy enhancers
The most common complaint heard by doctors in their surgeries (and any healing modality), is the complaint of “low energy”. (Stress is not far behind). Low energy levels can be due to many things, the most common being not enough water. Other things to consider are mineral deficiencies, poor eating habits, not enough exercise and an underlying health problem.

Many reputable medical journals (based on medical research), recommend that people take a multivitamin every day. This will help with some energy problems. http://www.byebyebridget.com/ecommerce.php

c. memory, concentration and thought enhancers
Certain amino acids (protein derivatives) can augment brain function, and other herbs can assist with memory. If this is important for you work and function, make an appointment to see a naturopath who can best advice you on which ones to take.

Many natural medicines are available over the counter or from health food shops and supermarkets. But how do you know what you need? There are a range of supplements available and rather than waste your money on something you think you need, see a professional trained in the area of complimentary medicines. These may include a naturopath, nutritionist or herbalist. There are national registration bodies, listed in the back of the book, that you can contact to find a practitioner local to you. OR you can search on the internet. We recommend the on-line consultations offered by www.healthqueen.com.au

The essentials
As a minimum you should take the following on any trips with you:
any prescription medications
paracetamol /ibobrufen or natural pain killers
an immune booster
a multivitamin
an anti-oxidant

Always carry a letter for PBS and supplements if prescribed by a professional.
Avoid travelling with powders and liquids.

No comments:

Post a Comment