Other benefits of safflowers have been to lower cholesterol, relieve arthritis, treat skin rashes and promote healthy liver functions.

Safflowers may also be used to stimulate perspiration, helping reduce fevers brought on by colds and flus.

Sage contains vitamins A, C and B-complex, plus high amounts of calcium and potassium. The name Sage is derived from the latin word 'salvare', meaning 'to heal'. Having been used in cooking for so long, Sage is now a popular body tonic.

Sage invokes a calming effect on the central nervous system, helping reduce anxiety, mild depression, and soothe muscle spasms.

Other known uses for sage have been to reduce fevers, fight common colds, regulate menstruation, alleviate nausea and reduce perspiration making it a valuable source for the treatment of night sweats.

SAMe contains a compound that all living cells produce. The compound -- an important player in a molecular process called methylation -- helps neighboring organs and tissues by transfering one molecule, which contains a package of four atoms, to an adjacent molecule. This transfer changes the shape of both molecules and affects several physical processes, including the regulation of some hormones and the neurotransmitters serotonin, melatonin, dopamine and adrenaline (important regulators of mood).

In Europe, where it is a prescription drug, SAMe is widely used to treat depression. Of the 40 or so scientific studies looking at SAM-e's effect on depression, most suggest it works as well as pharmaceutical antidepressants -- and without the side effects. Another advantage: compared to antidepressant drugs, SAMe works quickly, and patients often feel the effects within a week (antidepressants usually take at least four weeks to kick in). However, while study results are impressive, most of the trials thus far have been small, involving fewer participants than depression drug studies. Bear in mind that, like antidepressant drugs, SAMe doesn't work for everyone. A study from the University of California at Irvine followed 17 severely depressed patients and found the response rate to SAMe was 62 percent compared to 50 percent for the antidepressant desipramine (Norpramin).

One great disadvantage of SAMe is its price -- between $2.50 to $4.50 per 400 mg pill. Look for tablets with enteric coatings which improve absorption, and also go for the new butanedisulfonate form. Be aware, however, that some experts feel none of the brands of SAMe on the market provide enough of the compound in usable form. (And go for the best price -- there's no advantage to buying more expensive products.)

For certain conditions it is useful to supplement SAMe directly rather than to rely on your body's production of it.

SAMe has been shown to be:

• An excellent anti-depressant providing significant improvement in research subjects at doses of 800-1600 mg/daily.
• An anti-inflammatory & helpful with osteoarthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, chronic low back pain.
• Helpful with fibromyalgia - produced decreased pain & morning stiffness & increased mood.
• A liver protector & promoter of liver detoxification pathways - helpful with hepatitis, cirrhosis & many liver disorders.
• A potent antioxidant.
• Effective for improving intellectual sluggishness & performance.
• Able to improve cognitive function in dementia.
• A useful adjunct to L-Dopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
• Able to reverse conditions of a sluggish gallbladder.
• Able to slow the aging process in animal studies (by restoring DNA methylation to useful levels - a decline in DNA methylation is thought to contribute to aging.)

There are numerous mechanisms by which these benefits take place as follows:

• SAMe is the sole methyl donor in many methylation reactions in your nervous system & increases important neurotransmitters in your brain.
• It is an essential nutrient in the synthesis, activation, & metabolism of glutathione.
• As a methyl donor, SAMe has lipotropic effects (this means it prevents fatty infiltration of your liver).
• SAMe regulates the fat & fluid content of your liver cells & improves bile flow
• It is crucial for the synthesis of RNA, DNA, & phosphatydlcholine which keeps your cell membranes in a youthful state.
• It contributes to the synthesis of polyamines which regulate protein synthesis.
• It is involved in manufacturing melatonin.

Anyone taking SAMe should also be taking pyridoxal-5-phosphate, Folic acid, & Vitamin B12 or a good multi vitamin/mineral.

Used for hundreds of years by both American and Chinese herbalists to treat syphilis, sarsaparilla is a popular herb used today to promote glandular balance. Sarsaparilla supports the body by purifying the blood, cleansing the colon and urinary tract, treating various skin problems, and lowering blood pressure.

Sarsaparilla reduces fevers by helping cool down the body and promoting perspiration. Sarsaparilla has also been known to increase circulation to the joints, reducing inflammation caused by arthritis and rheumatism.

As a diuretic, Sarsaparilla may assist with weight loss programs stimulating the body's metabolic process, increasing urination and reducing water retention.

Sarsaparilla also contains cortin one of the hormones secreted by the adrenal glands. The body will die almost immediately if this hormone is stopped but if there is only a small or insufficient amount the body becomes easily ill and develops nervous depression and general weakness. So many maladies are related to adrenal weakness and exhaustion, including hypoglycemia, so people should take note if they are striving to rebuild their adrenals. Sarsaparilla may be able to help.

An herb used to tone and strengthen male and female reproductive systems, saw palmetto relieves testicular inflammation, inhibits the hormone responsible for prostate enlargement, and reduces breast tenderness related to breast feeding and menstruation.

Saw palmetto's antiseptic and astringent properties help to ease inflamed and irritated tissues of the urinary tract. Expelling toxins and irritants by stimulating urine flow, saw palmetto may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

As an expectorant, saw palmetto alleviates coughs and congestion brought on by asthma, bronchitis and colds. Saw palmetto may also be used to balance the metabolism, aid digestion and stimulate the appetite to increase weight gain.

Saw Palmetto has gained recent attention from the medical community for it's success in reducing prostate inflammation due to BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia).

This herb may also enhance sexual functioning and desire and increase appetite.

Saw Palmetto berries' nourishing qualities have also been studied for their effect on male sexual organs, particularly the revitalization of the testes & the increase of desire.

You can visit their website here .

When he was 11, his father died in his arms of a massive heart attack. At 14, his mother died of a heart attack. They were both only 55 years old. At 16 years of age, he was diagnosed with a genetic incurable heart deformity. After curing himself of this so-called incurable disease through changes in his life-style, and NO surgery, he set out on a mission to help others. He continues this healing crusade today through his daily work to expose the truth, to reveal the unlimited healing power of our being, to educate on the use of herbs and the fundamentals of natural healing, to help people to help themselves and to expose the medical, pharmaceutical and even herbal industries. He is considered an innovator, a purist, and even an extremist by many of his colleagues, but to his patients he is considered " The man who has the guts to say and do what the others were afraid to". In the field of natural healing, he dared to pioneer new techniques and therapies which went far beyond what most people thought possible with Alternative Medicine. The outcome of his work has been the achievement of miraculous and unprecedented results. His formulae and incurables program are used at clinics worldwide to help people heal themselves from degenerative diseases such as Heart Disease, Cancer, Arthritis, Neuromuscular disease and even A.I.D.S. These results have caused reverberations in both the Natural and Medical communities.

Dr Schulze apprenticed with the late Dr. John Christopher and taught with him at his prestigious School of Natural Healing in Springville, Utah. He continued to teach at the school after Dr. Christopher's death for another 12 years. He has been the Director of the College of Herbology and Natural Healing in the United Kingdom for 12 years and is also Co-Director of the Osho School for Herbalists and Natural Healers in France and founder of his own School of Natural Healing in Southern California. He has taught and lectured at numerous universities including Cambridge and Oxford Universities in England, Trinity Medical College in Ireland, Omega Institute in New York, Cortijo Romero in Spain and other natural therapy and herbal institutes worldwide. He has been the guest speaker on numerous radio and television shows in the United States and Europe. As a teacher, he is loved for his intensity, passion, and dedication to students, sense of humor, creativity, and his exciting, enthusiastic and evangelistic teaching style. He is most recognized for his unequaled understanding of Natural Healing.

In the 1970's, he was the creator of Professor Cayenne's Herbal Products and, today, the American Botanical Pharmacies line of industrial strength pharmaceutical botanical extracts. He has manufactured these herbal products in the United States and Europe for over 17 years and also designs herbal formulae for natural clinics and natural product companies worldwide. His herbal formulas are famous for their strength and efficacy.

He served an internship with the famous natural healer Dr. Bernard Jensen. Besides having a Doctorate in Herbology and a Doctorate in Natural Medicine, he also holds a degree in Herbal Pharmacy and three degrees in Iridology. He is certified in eight different styles of Body Therapy and holds three Black Belts in the Martial Arts. He has written many clinical research papers on the topics of Botanical Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology and the making of Herbal Preparations.

He has done many video and audio tapes and has co-authored books in Europe.

Dusan Stojkovich has a collection of Dr. Schulze's essays and interviews here .

Healthfree.com has Articles on Dr. Richard Schulze's Natural Healing Crusade here .

The Dysautonomia archives from the 'Ask Dr. Stoll' website are here .

See also paroxetine (Paxil), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft)

• Year discovered: 1817
• Atomic No.: 34
• Symbol: Se
• Atomic weight: 78.96
• Melting point: 217º C

Selenium is recovered primarily from anode slimes in the electrolytic refining of copper. It was named after Selene, Greek goddess of the moon, in 1817 by is discoverer, Swedish chemist J.J. Berzelius. Selenium was first found in the red residue found in sulfuric acid prepared at a pyrite mining operation at Fahlun, Sweden.

Selenium is an essential ultra trace dietary nutrient. Selenium helps to protect your body from toxic substances, protects against heavy metal toxicity, (especially mercury), cadmium, may reduce the incidence of mortality from cancer, help prevent cardiovascular disease, & support immune function.

Adequate selenium levels may inhibit HIV transcription & consequently delay the onset of AIDS.

Vegetarians & the elderly are especially susceptible to selenium deficiency.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS :

• High cholesterol
• Frequent infections
• Infertility
• Liver dysfunction
• Muscle pain
• Cardiomyopathy
• Impaired growth
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Low thyroid function
• Increased susceptibility to virus & cancer

SYMPTOMS OF EXCESSIVE SELENIUM :

• Stiff hair
• Hair loss
• Abdominal pain
• Hives
• Depression
• Dermatitis
• Fatigue
• Garlic odor to breath
• Decreased immune function
• Irritability
• Kidney dysfunction
• Lethargy
• Brittle nails
• Nausea
• Yellowish skin

See also Trace Minerals

• 1. a connected series of events or things.
• 2. in dysmorphology, a pattern of multiple anomalies derived from a single known or presumed prior anomaly or mechanical factor.
• 3. in molecular biology, often used to refer to DNA having a particular nucleotide composition or occurring in a particular region of the genome.

• Sertraline is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Sertraline affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression or panic.
• Sertraline is used to relieve symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt; loss of interest in daily activities, changes in appetite, tiredness, sleeping too much, insomnia, and thoughts of death or suicide. Sertraline is also used to treat panic disorder.

A HREF="http://www.onhealth.com/ch1/resource/pharmacy/multum/item,75683.asp">The PDR reference is here.

• 1. the clear portion of any body fluid; the clear fluid moistening serous membranes.
• 2. blood serum; the clear liquid that separates from blood on clotting.
• 3. Immune serum; blood serum from an immunized animal used for passive immunization; an antiserum, antitoxin, or antivenin.

Formula for sinus, hayfever and allergies: Brigham Tea, Marshmallow Root, Golden Seal Root, Chaparral, Burdock Root, Parsley Root, Lobelia and Cayenne.

This is an aid for clearing up sinus, hayfever and allergies malfunctions, a "natural and herbal help" working as a decongestant and natural antihistamine to dry up the sinuses and expel from the head and bronchopulmonary tubes and passages the offending stoppage and mucus.

You can buy SHA Tea here .

Read Soothing the Itch from Shingles by Elizabeth Burch, ND here .

• Improves energy.
• Increases the ability to withstand physical stress such as exercise, noise, heat, increased work pressure.
• Increases mental alertness & work output.
• Improves the quality of work under stressful conditions athletic performance.
• Improves sense of well being.
• May improve immune function.

In a 1993 French study, eight women (average age of 64) with osteoporosis were given 50 mg of silica twice weekly for four months. Researchers found that silica "significantly increased" the mineral density of their thigh bones.

Evidence also indicates that silica may benefit certain types of heart disease. In one animal study, silica was given to rats with high blood pressure for six weeks while the control group received a saline solution. After one week, the blood pressure of the silica group was lower than the control group and remained lower until one week after treatment ended. In another study, silica was found to reduce atherosclerosis (fatty deposits on the arteries) in rats eating a high-cholesterol diet.

The common "heart-friendly" foods, such as dietary fiber (oats, barley, and rice) and wine, are also high in silica. One of the heart benefits of the so-called Mediterranean Diet could be due to eating greater quantities of these silica-rich foods. Other dietary sources of silica include alfalfa, avocados, strawberries, onions, cucumbers, and dark greens. The herb horsetail (Equisetum arvensa) is another common source of silica and can typically be found as a nutritional supplement.

• Year discovered: Circa 3000 B.C.
• Atomic No.: 47
• Symbol: Ag
• Atomic weight: 107.868
• Melting point: 960.8º C

Humankind's first contact with silver dates back 6,000 years. Although silver is relatively scarce, it is the most plentiful and least expensive of the precious metals. The Incas of Peru called silver "the tears of the moon." The ancient Greeks minted the drachma, which contained 1/8th ounce of silver, and in Rome, the basic coin was the denarius, weighing 1/7th ounce. Also, the British pound sterling originally denoted a specific weight of silver. The metal is malleable, ductile and has a low level of electrical resistance. Its major uses are in photography, electronic and electrical products, tableware, jewelry and dentistry. Stainless steel is an alternate material widely used in the manufacture of table flatware.

The Desert, Siskiyou, and Hof van Axen essence sets are available through Three in One Concepts, (818) 841-4786.

Stress, excessive sun, alcohol, tobacco, junk food, vitamin deficiencies, & hormone deficiencies cause more rapid skin aging.

She is one of the foremost experts on the prevention & treatment of conditions by the use of amino acids. "The Way Up From Down" presents her natural "precursor" methods for lifting low moods & relieving the negative effects of stress. Dr. Slagle has incorporated vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, natural hormones & other natural substances into her practice for the past 25 years, being one of the pioneers in the Alternative Medicine Field.

Dr. Slagle evaluates & treats numerous illnesses from a holistic perspective & loves to see people becoming physically & emotionally healthy, to see visible improvements in behavior & appearance, & to see plaguing symptoms disappear.

Dr. Slagle is also a hypnotherapist & has used hypnosis selectively as a powerful tool in her practice. In the future she will be offering relaxation & hypnosis self help tapes for on-line order. Together with cognitive therapy, she feels hypnosis is a powerful tool for positive change.

Dr. Slagle is a lifetime Associate Clinical Professor at the Neuropsychiatric Institute at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center.

Dr. Slagle has lectured extensively, and has appeared on numerous radio & TV shows discussing her topics of expertise.

Slippery Elm contains bioflavonoids, calcium, mucliage, starch, tannins and vitamin E. Containing high amounts of mucilage and a long chain of sugars called polysaccharides, Slippery Elm eases digestion and works with the body to draw out impurities and toxins assisting with the healing of all body parts.

Slippery Elm's coating action soothes the irritated tissues of the intestines, colon, urinary tract and stomach ulcers.

Slippery Elm is also benefical in alleviaing inflammation caused by arthritis and soothing sore throats.

Slippery Elm is a gentle but powerful herb. It is extremely soothing to inflamed respiratory tracts. It was once used extensively for soothing sore throats and coughs. The herb is nutritive and can sustain lives.

Louise Hay ascribes problems in the small and large intestines to fear of letting go of the old no longer needed, difficulty in assimilating experiences, and insecurity; she relates constipation to being stuck in the past, and sometimes to stinginess, and diarrhea to fear and feeling rejected. (Although I have quoted Louise Hay in the past and find her ideas helpful, I do not accept them as automatically valid.) Thorwald Dethlefsen and Rüdiger Dahlke, MD, in their book, “The Healing Power of Illness,” Element, Shaftesbury, Dorset, 1990, draw an interesting analogy between the small intestine, which digests material input, and the brain, which digests impressions on the non- physical level--they then reason that small intestine disorders arise because the person is too analytical, too given to criticism and fault-finding, as well as an indicator of fears we may have for our survival. In contrast, the large intestine reflects the unconscious, the realm of the dead, the fear of letting our unconscious with its repressed contents see the light of day, so we have difficulty in giving and letting go. The Chinese Five-Element Law associates small intestine problems with the Small Intestine Meridian and the Fire Element, for which some main emotions include shock, sadness, discouraged, hurting, unappreciated, and large intestine problems with the Large Intestine Meridian and the Metal Element, for which some key emotions are guilt, grief, letting go, apathy. Prevention and treatment are suggested in part by the causes we have just listed, including addressing any problems with the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, stomach, and pituitary gland (an underactive pituitary causes the stomach to compensate by excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid). Use of garlic (helps kill harmful intestinal bacteria and promotes growth of beneficial acid-producing bacteria), slippery elm tea (reduces inflammation), Standard Process Labs Gastrex (maybe 6 a day for 12 weeks, doubling or tripling until any severe pain is gone); Gastrex absorbs gastrointestinal toxins and coats the gastrointestinal tract), and their Okra-Pepsin E3 (perhaps 6 a day for 12 weeks, again doubling or tripling until severe pain is gone); Okra-Pepsis E3 is a digestive enzyme product that heals mucosal linings. Following the Eat Right for Your Type diet for your blood type should also help greatly because many food lectins, often blood-type specific, can cause irritation by attacking the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. Regional enteritis (Crohn’s disease of the small intestine) has been helped by the ER4YT diet, as have duodenal and stomach ulcers. Blood type Os are statistically especially vulnerable to the helicobacter pylori bacterium— use of the common seaweed bladder wrack (fucus vesiculosis), available through North American Pharmacal, (203)-866-7664, can help in preventing and healing such ulcers, and Thorne Research Formula SF 734 is especially effective in removing helicobacter pylori. Daily 1-minute rubbing of the inside surface of each thigh and of the entire bottom of the rib cage in front can help reduce small intestine problems (these are neurolyphatic reflexes).

Both smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke increase cardiovascular disease risk.

[Dr. Stoll]

Nicotine is well known for creating a "wall" around the sensations in the hypothalamus to protect our awareness from the seething hell that constitutes most of modern man's hypothalamic activity (See Hans Selye, MD's research during the last half of this century about stress-effect storage.) [Dr. Schulze]

In my clinic, I worked with people that were severely addicted to cocaine in the 70's and 80's, in the Miami Vice era. I worked with people so addicted to heroin, they used to shoot up while they were in a car driving on the freeway. I could tell you some horrendous stories. I have never seen any drug more hard to get off of than nicotine. It's so...Worse than cocaine...Worse than heroin. Nothing, nothing comes close to the addictive nature of nicotine. I could hardly get my patients off it until I started using the lobelia. I'm telling you, in the 60's, they had a drug which was a mixture of cocaine and heroin called speedballs. And that drug was even easier to get off than cigarettes, and that's both heroin and cocaine. I have never seen anything like it. I had strong-willed patients that broke down into little babies and would wake up at three in the morning, and walk three miles to try to find a 7-Eleven to get a pack of cigarettes.

Read Dr. Schulze's Essay "This herb can help a friend or loved one stop smoking - and SAVE THEIR LIFE!" here.

You can buy Lobelia tincture and tea here .

• 1. dissolving; effecting a solution.
• 2. a liquid that dissolves or that is capable of dissolving; the component of a solution that is present in greater amount.
  Soma bodywork
  See Soma Neuromuscular Integration

  Soma Neuromuscular Integration
  A 10-session system of body/mind therapy, also called Soma bodywork. Developed in 1978 by Dr. Bill M. Williams, Ph.D., one of the first students of Ida Rolf. This system achieves changes by structurally balancing the body in gravity and integrating the nervous system. Soma bodywork results are progressive as the body continues to improve long after the processing is over.

  Sominex Pain Relief Formula^®
  See acetaminophen and diphenhydramine

  Sore Throat
  A common symptom of viral and bacterial infections, also allergies.

  chronic non-infectious sore throat is often caused by allergies.

  [Dr. Christopher]

  Sore throat is by no means pleasant. The causes are varied. The tonsils may be swollen from a clogged lymphatic system, or the throat can be sore and irritated from coughing. What we need here is instant relief from pain and something to soothe and heal the throat. For the serious sufferer who wants very quick relief, cayenne pepper taken in juice or water will bring great results. The stimulating effects of the cayenne will increase the circulation in the throat area, minimizing the pain. Jethro Kloss, the self-educated healer and author of Back to Eden, states that pain results from poor circulation in an area of the body. Warm ginger tea is an excellent remedy for pain of sore throat. A hot fomentation of mullein and lobelia over the throat can also speed healing. It, too, increases circulation. The soothing demulcent such as slippery elm and marshmallow root tea can lessen throat irritation. Mullein is another valuable remedy. Sage tea has been used for centuries for colds and sore throats.

  X-Ceptic is a certain cure for sore throat pain, but only very brave souls can tolerate the taste.

  Soriatane^®
  See acitretin

   

  Sound Therapy
  Like music therapy, this ancient energy therapy has been used for treating illness as well as restoring "centeredness." Works on the theory that constant vibrations or energy waves in the universe affect the internal organs and overall health. One theory is that sound waves promote health by balancing energy centers, or chakras. Practitioners say it is useful in the treatment of anorexia and bulimia, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, headaches, heart disorders, manic depression, schizophrenia and stress. Typically taught at two levels, each level requiring four weekends of training.

  When the body’s healthy resonant frequency is out of balance, our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health is negatively affected. This therapy most commonly employs the direct application of the voice, music and other sounds. Cymatics, a recent sound therapy extension from Britain, uses special machines to transmit healing vibrations. A cymatic computerized system devised by Dr. Peter Manners now has some 800 frequencies to treat specific health complaints.

  Sphincter
  Muscles around the urethra that are used to open and close.

  Spider Veins
   

  Spina Bifida
  Abnormal development of the spine chacterized by an opening that can allow the protusion of the spinal cord generally resulting in functional neurologic abnormalities. Also known as myelomeningocele.

  Spinach
  Is high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, B-1, niacin and vitamin C.

  Spinal Column
  the columnar assemblage of the vertebrae from the cranium through the coccyx; called also backbone, and spine.

  See also Spinal Vertebrae

  Spinal Vertebrae
  There are 24 spinal vertebrae (normally 7 cervical vertebrae in the neck, 12 dorsal or thoracic vertebrae in the upper and mid back, and 5 lumbar vertebrae in the lower back) in addition to the partly fused bones of the sacrum and coccyx.
  Spine
  See spinal Column, Spinal Vertebrae

  Spirulina
  This sea algae is so high in protein (75%) that it can actually halt sugar cravings—a big help to hypoglycemics. Considered a “super food”, spirulina contains more concentrations of nutrients than any grain, herb, or plant, and is used to protect the immune system, lower cholesterol, and aid in the absorption of nutrients.

  Spleen
  The spleen constitutes the greatest mass of lymphatic tissue in the body, and not only makes certain lymphocytes and antibodies, but also destroys worn-out blood cells, and acts as a blood reservoir.

  The spleen, [in the Chinese Five-Element Law] is associated with the Spleen-Pancreas Meridian of the Earth Element, with emotions such as feeling rejected, envious, anxiety about the future, lack of empathy, etc.

  Splenic Flexure
  A section of the colon.

  Spoonful^®
  See Aspartame

  Sports Massage
  Massage used before, during or after athletic events to promote healing and recovery as well as prevention from injuries. May combine many forms of massage, such as Swedish or deep tissue, but is adapted to each athlete’s needs. A number of professional and collegiate teams now have sports massage therapists on staff. Improves focus, training efficiency and recovery.

   

  Squalene
  This substance exists naturally in our skin and has been known in Germany and Japan for at least 50 years. Commercially it is isolated from the liver of a rare species of deep-sea shark. Virgin or extra virgin olive oil is a rich food source of squalene. It helps the immune system greatly against autoimmune diseases, bacteria and viruses, and also has anticancer and antifungal properties and some protective power against otherwise lethal doses of gamma radiation. It also helps lower cholesterol (for those who think high cholesterol is bad) and triglycerides. Robert Atkins, MD, recommends 1 to 3 grams daily for general health enhancement. No long-term adverse effects are known.

  Squamous Cell Carcinomas
  Squamous cell carcinomas are often somewhat less distinctive in their appearance than are basal cell carcinomas. They may or may not be ulcerated, and often have a hard, horny crust. They are not translucent appearing.

  Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas have a significant risk of metastatic spread. Lesions larger than 1-2 cm in diameter are at higher risk for metastasis.

  Squamous cell carcinomas of the nose, lip, and ear also have a greater risk of metastasis.

  Squamous cell carcinomas represent 25% of skin cancers.

  See also Cancer

     
  SSRI
  See selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

   

  St. John's Wort
  St. John's Wort has recently become the hottest-selling herb in the U.S. for its success in alleviating depression and anxiety naturally. In Germany, it's outselling Prozac twenty to one.

  St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.), belonging to the family Hypericaceae and also known as klamath weed, amber touch-and-heal, goatweed and rosin rose, is an aromatic shrubby perennial plant with numerous bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. The blooms are said to be at their brightest and most abundant around the day traditionally celebrated as the birthday of John the Baptist (June 24).

  The plant is native to Europe and can be found as well in the United States and Canada. It is an aggressive weed found in the dry ground of roadsides, meadows, woods and hedges, where it generally grows to a height of one to two feet. Historically, St. John’s wort has been used as an herbal remedy, not only for depression, but also to treat anxiety, diuresis, gastritis and insomnia. In addition, it has been investigated as a treatment for cancer and AIDS.

  Low concentrations of hypericin and pseudohypericin are found in the leaves and flowers of St. John’s wort. Other active ingredients are flavonoids, xanthones, phenolic carboxylic acids, essential oils, carotenoids, alkanes, phloroglucinol derivatives, phytosterols, and medium-chain fatty acid alcohols. Tannin, in a concentration of approximately 10%, is most likely responsible for St. John’s wort’s astringent and protein-precipitating effects, contributing to the plant’s traditional, topical use as a wound-healing agent.

  Historically, people thought that the tranquilizing effects of St. John’s wort were secondary to increased capillary blood flow. More recent studies demonstrate that the extract, primarily hypericin, is a strong, and nearly irreversible, inhibitor of monoamine oxidase types A and B. In addition, the extract enhances sleep, extends narcotic-induced sleeping time in a dose-dependent manner, antagonizes the effects of reserpine and decreases aggressive behavior in socially isolated male mice. The Food and Drug Administration has designated hypericin as an investigational new drug. In Germany, it has been approved by the regulatory authorities for the treatment of depression.

  

  Stanimax Gel
  See fluoride topical

  Stanimax perio Rinse
  See fluoride topical

  Staphylococcus Aureus
  A bacteria

  Staticin
  See erythromycin topical

  Stellaria media
  See Chickweed

  Stem Cell
  • 1. any precursor cell.
  • 2. a blood cell progenitor, or mother cell, having the capacity for both replication and differentiation, and giving rise to various morphologically recognizable precursors of different blood cell lines, such as the proerythrocyte and myeloblast, which cannot self-replicate and must differentiate into more mature daughter cells.

  Stevia
  An excellent substitute for sugar and artificial sweeteners is the natural herb stevia (stevia rebaudiana), which is 30-100 times sweeter than sugar, nontoxic, water soluble, and without after-taste. It is not consistently available in the USA (thanks to FDA interference).

  Stibnite
  More than 2,000 years ago, the natural sulfide of antimony, stibnite, was used as both a medicine and a facial cosmetic.

  Stoll M.D., Walt
  Dr. Stoll runs a message board at Ask Dr. Stoll where he spends seveal hours each day answering health questions. He is the author of "Saving Yourself from the Disease-Care Crisis".

  Dr Walt Stoll is an MD with 30+ years of practice experience as a Board Certified Family Practitioner. The first 10 years he practiced strictly Conventional Medicine in a small farming community in Ohio. Then he taught medicine for 3 years at the University of Kentucky Medical School. The last 17+ years have been spent COMBINING as many other healing philosophies WITH Conventional Medicine as he could learn enough about to evaluate.

  At one time he had a Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, Biofeedback Trainer, Homeopath, Naturopath, Chinese Medical Practitioner, Minister/Counselor, Nutritionist, Reflexologist, Applied Kinesiologist, Dentist, Electromagnetic Medical Diagnostician/Therapist, Rolfer, etc., working with him in his office. He had to know about ALL of them to judge. They all worked together as equal members of a team although he was ultimately responsible for everything. He was the glue that held all of them together. They all watched each other work with all of their patients and thereby learned how each of their approaches related to all the others and complemented each other.

  

  Stomach
  A hollow, saclike organ of the digestive system that is connected to the esophagus and the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The stomach lies in the left side of the abdomen under the diaphragm.

  The stomach is flexible, allowing it to expand when food is eaten; in an adult, the average capacity is about 3 pints (1.5 liters). The stomach wall consists of layers of longitudinal and circular muscle, lined by special glandular cells that secrete gastric juice, and supplied by blood vessels and nerves. A strong muscle at the lower end of the stomach forms a ring called the pyloric sphincter that can close the outlet leading to the duodenum.

  Although the main function of the stomach is to continue the breakdown of food that is started in the mouth and completed in the small intestine, it also acts as a storage organ, enabling food to be eaten only two or three times a day. Food would have to be eaten every 20 minutes or so if storage were not possible.

  The sight and smell of food and the arrival of food in the stomach stimulate gastric secretion. The gastric juice secreted from the stomach lining contains pepsin (an enzyme that breaks down protein), hydrochloric acid (which kills bacteria taken in with the food and which creates the most suitable environment for the pepsin to work in), and intrinsic factor (which is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine). The stomach lining also contains glands that secrete mucus, which helps provide a barrier to prevent the stomach from digesting itself.

  The layers of muscle produce rhythmic contractions about every 20 seconds that churn the food and gastric juice; the combined effect of this movement and the action of the digestive juice convert the semisolid food into a creamy fluid. This process takes varying lengths of time, depending on the nature of the food. Generally, however, the richer the meal, the longer it takes to be emptied from the stomach. The partially digested food is squirted into the duodenum at regular intervals by the contractions of the stomach and relaxation of the pyloric sphincter.

  Disorders of the stomach have a variety of causes. Because the stomach is a reservoir, disorders in the process of emptying the stomach contents occur. Other problems relate to the stomach's role in the preparation of ingested food for digestion.

  Some of the disorders which may occur are infection, tumors, ulceration, autoimmune disorders, and twisting or enlargement of the stomach.

  Stomach Ulcer
   
  Stop
  See fluoride topical

  Strains
   

  The Bumps, Bruises, Strains and Fractures archives from the 'Ask Dr. Stoll' website are here .

  Stratum Corneum
  The fifth layerof the epidermis

  As a cell accumulates keratinohyalin granules, it is thought that rupture of lysosomal membranes release lysosomal enzymes that eventually cause cell death. The dead and dying cells filled with mature keratin form the stratum corneum (SC). The deeper cells of the stratum corneum retain their desmosomal junctions, but as they are pushed to the surface by newly forming cells of the stratum germinativum (SG), the dead cells gradually break apart and are lost, a process called desquamation.

  Stratum Germinatum
  First layer of the epidermis

  The stratum germinatum (SG) provides the germinal cells necessary for the regeneration of the layers of the epidermis. These germinal cells are separated from the dermis by a thin layer of basement membrane. After a mitotic division a newly formed cell will undergo a progressive maturation called keratinization as its migrates to the surface.

  Stratum Granulosum
  Third layer of the epidermis

  The progressive maturation of a keratinocyte is charcterized by the accumulation of keratin, called keratinization. The cells of the stratum granulosum (SGR) accumlate dense basophilic keratohyalin granules. These granules contain lipids, which along with the desmosomal connections, help to form a waterproof barrier that functions to prevent fluid loss from the body.

  Stratum Lucidum
  Fourth layer of the epidermis

  Epidermis varies in thickness throughout the body depending mainly on frictional forces and is thickest on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The stratum lucidum is normally only well seen in thick epidermis and represents a transition from the stratum granulosum to the stratum corneum.

  Stratum Spinosum
  Second layer ofthe epidermis.

  The cells that divide in the statum germinativum soon begin to accumulate many desmosomes on their outer surface which provide the characteristic “prickles” of the stratum spinosum (SS), which is often called the prickle-cell layer.

  Strep Throat
  A bacterial infection

  Streptococcus Viridans
  A bacteria

  Stress
  Emminent medical researcher Hans Selye, M.D. pioneered the idea that stress was the underlying cause of most diseases, his version of a 'unified theory of illness'. His book, "The Stress of Life," has become a classic on the field.

  Walt Stoll, M.D. has an excellent article on stress  

  Subluxation
  Interference of nerve energy flow arising from misalignment of spinal vertebrae

  Sucrase
  An enzyme that breaks sucrose, i.e.,ordinary table sugar, into glucose and fructose.

  Sucrose
  A disaccharide, a two-sugar molecule, made from cane and beet plants. In the body, sucrose breaks down into two monosaccharide molecules, glucose and fructose.

  Sudafed Cold and Sinus
  See acetaminophen and pseudoephedrine

  Sugar
  A chemistry term often used interchangeably with saccharide and carbohydrate.

  Dr. Martin classified refined sugar as a poison because it has been depleted of its life forces, vitamins and minerals. "What is left consists of pure, refined carbohydrates. The body cannot utilize this refined starch and carbohydrate unless the depleted proteins, vitamins and minerals are present. Nature supplies these elements in each plant in quantities sufficient to metabolize the carbohydrate in that particular plant. There is no excess for other added carbohydrates. Incomplete carbohydrate metabolism results in the formation of 'toxic metabolite' such as pyruvic acid and abnormal sugars containing five carbon atoms. Pyruvic acid accumulates in the brain and nervous system and the abnormal sugars in the red blood cells. These toxic metabolites interfere with the respiration of the cells. They cannot get sufficient oxygen to survive and function normally. In time, some of the cells die. This interferes with the function of a part of the body and is the beginning of degenerative disease.

  Refined sugar is lethal when ingested by humans because it provides only that which nutritionists describe as "empty" or "naked" calories. It lacks the natural minerals which are present in the sugar beet or cane. In addition, sugar is worse than nothing because it drains and leaches the body of precious vitamins and minerals through the demand its digestion, detoxification and elimination makes upon one's entire system. So essential is balance to our bodies that we have many ways to provide against the sudden shock of a heavy intake of sugar. Minerals such as sodium (from salt), potassium and magnesium (from vegetables), and calcium (from the bones) are mobilized and used in chemical transmutation; neutral acids are produced which attempt to return the acid-alkaline balance factor of the blood to a more normal state.

  Sugar taken every day produces a continuously overacid condition, and more and more minerals are required from deep in the body in the attempt to rectify the imbalance. Finally, in order to protect the blood, so much calcium is taken from the bones and teeth that decay and general weakening begin. Excess sugar eventually affects every organ in the body. Initially, it is stored in the liver in the form of glucose (glycogen). Since the liver's capacity is limited, a daily intake of refined sugar (above the required amount of natural sugar) soon makes the liver expand like a balloon. When the liver is filled to its maximum capacity, the excess glycogen is returned to the blood in the form of fatty acids. These are taken to every part of the body and stored in the most inactive areas: the belly, the buttocks, the breasts and the thighs.

  When these comparatively harmless places are completely filled, fatty acids are then distributed among active organs, such as the heart and kidneys. These begin to slow down; finally their tissues degenerate and turn to fat. The whole body is affected by their reduced ability, and abnormal blood pressure is created. The parasympathetic nervous system is affected; and organs governed by it, such as the small brain, become inactive or paralyzed. (Normal brain function is rarely thought of as being as biologic as digestion.) The circulatory and lymphatic systems are invaded, and the quality of the red corpuscles starts to change. An overabundance of white cells occurs, and the creation of tissue becomes slower. Our body's tolerance and immunizing power becomes more limited, so we cannot respond properly to extreme attacks, whether they be cold, heat, mosquitoes or microbes.

  Excessive sugar has a strong mal-effect on the functioning of the brain. The key to orderly brain function is glutamic acid, a vital compound found in many vegetables. The B vitamins play a major role in dividing glutamic acid into antagonistic-complementary compounds which produce a "proceed" or "control" response in the brain. B vitamins are also manufactured by symbiotic bacteria which live in our intestines. When refined sugar is taken daily, these bacteria wither and die, and our stock of B vitamins gets very low. Too much sugar makes one sleepy; our ability to calculate and remember is lost.

  Sulfo-Lo
  See sulfur topical

  Sulfoam
  See sulfur topical

  Sulforcin
  See sulfur topical

  Sulfur
  Organic Sulfur is the third largest substance found in your body

  Sulfur has been found to be a structural component of connective tissues, skin, hair, nails, antibodies (which fight disease) and other proteins.

  Sulfur has a vital relationship with protein, since sulfur is found in the amino acids methionine, cystine, and cysteine. Thus, these amino acids are known as the sulfur bearing amino acids.

  See also Trace minerals

  sulfur topical
  What is sulfur topical?

  • Topical sulfur causes drying and peeling of the skin. This allows excess oil and dirt to be easily washed away.
  • Sulfur topical is used to treat acne.

  The PDR reference is here.

  Sulmasque
  See sulfur topical

  Sulpho-Lac
  See sulfur topical

  Sulpho-Lac Soap
  See sulfur topical

  Sunflower
  

     

  Swedish Massage
  Classic Western form of massage, from which most modern methods of massage derive. A Swedish doctor, Per Henrick Ling, developed the first modern systematization of massage based on his study of gymnastics and physiology and on techniques borrowed from China, Egypt, Greece and Rome. These techniques include long gliding strokes, kneading, friction and shaking movements. Massage is effective for almost any condition but especially to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, back and neck pain, promote general relaxation and decrease stress.

  Swollen Lymph Nodes
  Through the accumulation of toxic waste in the body from, improper diet, poor blood stream and sluggish circulation of the blood system the glands become congested and infected, and swell up to cause much pain and misery. (There are glands that swell on the neck, breast, groin, under arm pits, etc.)

  [Dr. Christopher] Make a tea of three parts mullein and one part lobelia herb and use as a fomentation over swollen or malfunctioning glands. Leave on all night (covering fomentation with plastic), six days a week until relief is obtained. Use a fresh fomentation as warm as possible each night. This can be used as an aid to relieve mastitis, thyroid malfunction, etc., etc. In addition to the external fomentation, also drink a cup of this tea two or three times in a day or take two of the capsules or tablets with a cup of steam-distilled water.

     

  Symphytum officinale
  See Comfrey

  Symptom
  A symptom is what brings something to your attention that is not right or usual about yourself. It is what you take to your doctor or druggist, your relatives and friends, when you wonder what's wrong--when you think you might need medical help.

  Syncrometer
  The Syncrometer is a transdermal device that measures resonance of the body's cells when a substance enters the body's electromagnetic field. Dr. Clark, a cellular biologist, has made a significant contribution to electrobiology by the advent of this device. The device picks up minute radio emanations off the skin with a pinpoint electrode and amplifies it into a sound. A test plate acts as a sensitivity antennae in which suspicious samples of toxins or biological material can show a conductive resonance when like substances are in the body's cells. An audible tone alerts a warning sound when a pinpoint probe is applied to the finger when a toxin is placed in circuit. By this method, any and all toxins can be identified. By using herbs, ozonated water, a clean diet, electrotherapy, homeopathics, etc., toxins and parasites can be eliminated and later show a null reaction of the Syncrometer. The author (Dr. Charles McWilliams) and Dr. Clark credit the German physician Dr. Voll for having developed this technology. Dr. Clark has now made this procedure available to anyone who wishes to take the time to learn this technique, as is outlined in her books. The seminar participants followed her instructions closely and eagerly learned these dynamics---

  Synovial Cyst
  Cyst that forms at joints in the body. Depending on the location synovial cysts are called by other names i.e. 'Bakers' cyst at the knee joint or 'Ganglion' cyst on the tendons of the wrist .

  Synthesis
  The artificial building up of a chemical compound, by the union of its elements or from other suitable starting materials.

  Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
  Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune illness that causes a characteristic rash accompanied by inflammation of connective tissue, particularly joints, throughout the body. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks the body instead of protecting it. Kidney, lung, and vascular damage are potential problems resulting from SLE.

  The cause of SLE is unknown, though 90% of cases occur in women of childbearing age. Several drugs, such as procainamide, hydralazine, methyldopa, and chlorpromazine, can create SLE-like symptoms. Similarly, environmental pollution and industrial emissions may also trigger SLE-like symptoms in some people. In one reported case, zinc supplementation appears to have aggravated drug-induced SLE.

  Risk factors include a family history of SLE, other collagen diseases or asthma, menstrual irregularity, beginning menstruation at age 15 or later, exposure to toxic chemicals, and low blood levels of antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamins A and E, or beta-carotene. Free radicals are thought to promote SLE.

  [Michelle A. Johnson, ND]

  Systemic lupus erythematosis has become almost as common as multiple sclerosis and the major culprits appear to be Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi. The systemic lupus appears to be triggered by aspartame. The victim usually does not know that the aspartame is the culprit and continues with the diet drinks, thus aggravating the lupus to such a degree that it can be life-threatening. Chronic methanol toxicity from diet drinks usually diagnosed as something else, has similar symptoms as lupus and MS. It is usually found that the patient drinks three to four 12-oz cans of diet soda per day.

  Read Dr. Johnson's article ASPARTAME: Sweet and Deadly.