Tree Hugger

Being outdoor is always restful and relaxing. Taking the "outdoors" in, is helpful, healthy and can be extremely medicinal. I am talking about all natural herbs and oils. Many of them contain substances and supplements that can either cure all kinds of ailments, or are extremely helpful toward easing the pain.

These supplements are often referred to as Homeopathic. Even though they are all natural, that doesn't mean you can take them whenever and as much as you like. Too much can cause some side-effects you would rather avoid. So, stick to the recommended dose!

"Pine Bark Extract Relieves OA Pain, Improves Function

A new study to be published in the April 2008 edition of the Journal of Phytotherapy Research shows Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, reduced osteoarthritis symptoms by 56 percent.

In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, held at Italy's Chieti-Pescara University, 156 patients with knee OA received 100 mg of Pycnogenol or placebo, daily for three months and were then evaluated using a number of tools. Patients were permitted to continue taking their choice of pain medication provided they recorded every tablet in a diary for later evaluation.

The pycnogenol group also:

- Experienced a 55 percent improvement in joint pain
- Reduced pain medication use by 58 percent
- Had a 63 percent improvement in gastrointestinal complications
- Reduced stiffness by 53 percent
- Improved physical function scores by 57 percent
- Enhanced overall well-being by 64 percent

"The results of this study are significant as they clearly demonstrate the clinical action of Pycnogenol on OA and management of symptoms," says Gianni Belcaro, MD, PhD, a lead researcher of the study. "The use of Pycnogenol many reduce costs and side effects of anti-inflammatory agents and offer a natural alternative solution to people suffering from OA."
~ Arthritis Foundation, 4/23/08.

Personally, I rather take all natural supplements, medications and vitamins. I know from experience they do an excellent job. Sometimes it is inevitable to have to take pharmaceutical medications, in which case the same warning is in effect: stick to the recommended dose!

We all need guidelines and directions when we don't know what to do, or what would be best. In this case, the general and homeopathic physicians and pharmacies have the knowledge and clearly give recommendations. We would do well to follow their guidelines.

God's recommendations are clear as well. His word is guidance and leadership, available to anyone who is willing to follow it. It is the road map to inner-healing and everlasting life! :-)

2 Timothy 3:16-17
16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.