A Personal Message
From Dr. Ara Elmajian D.D.S.

Season's Greetings

As the first decade of the 21st century comes to a close there is so much we can reflect on. How much the world has changed in ten years or how much we have changed in ten years (yikes). The good news is that we are still all here, with so much to do and so much yet to learn. 

The most exciting and important development for me personally and professionally in the last decade has been the confirmation and implication of the existence of biofilm and its microbial content. I know it sounds dull but I am very excited and convinced that being able to identify and treat harmful microorganisms in the mouth will have far reaching, positive overall health benefits. 

We are not just talking about preventing or treating periodontal disease or dental caries we are observing important ramifications of identifying harmful microorganisms in the oral cavity and their relationship with disease in other parts of the body. 

We are seeing first hand, by doing a simple in office micro-ident test in the mouth that many patients suffering from a variety of health conditions, such as heart disease are harboring one or more very harmful pathogens in their mouths. This important discovery gives us specific tools in treating many different conditions, particularly those that do not seem to be responding to conventional methods.

By identifying the organism we can use specific targeted antibiotics as a treatment while supporting the body with a variety of probiotics and isopathic remedies (sanum remedies), nutritional therapies and a wide range of many other types of support chosen indivudally for the patient. 

In February I will be presenting at a conference on Pleo-Sanum remedies, a natural system of biological (homeopathic and isopathic) remedies based on Enderlein's philosophy of pleomorphism. The importance of biological dentistry and my latest observations on the implication of identifying harmful organisms in the mouth along with my experience of utilizing pleo sanum remedies in my practice will be the focus of my presentation. 

Stay tuned for more interesting developments and information on all these topics in future newsletters.

In the meantime have a wonderful, healthful and relaxing holiday break. 

See you in the New Year!

Ara      

Estrogen Balance for Healthy Living
Dr. Melanie MacIver, ND

Estrogen Excess
There are a lot of estrogens out there right now. Not only does a woman have to deal with her own estrogens, which may be high at times, she also has all of the toxic estrogen mimicking compounds to deal with, and possibly hormone replacement therapy as well. Luckily, our liver has the ability to clear out estrogens and other chemicals, and we can support this process with vitamins, herbs and amino acids.
Estrogen dominance syndrome is a hormonal imbalance between estrogen and progesterone, where there is an excess of estrogen, a deficiency of progesterone, or both. This imbalance can be the cause of many women's health concerns, and is treatable. 

Symptoms of Excess Estrogen
Weight gain  
PMS with breast tenderness, water retention, bloating, weight gain
Breast tenderness
Migraines or headaches with menstrual cycle
Irregular periods, mild to extreme heavy bleeding
Endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts
Water retention, puffiness, bloating
Insomnia
Anxiety, depression, poor concentration, mood swings
Gallbladder problems
Cellulite or fat at the hips and thighs
Low sex drive

Causes of Excess Estrogen
It is most common to experience excess estrogen in the teens and again in the 40's. Other health factors can cause or exacerbate this problem at any time, like liver and colon health, and the effect of environmental toxins on the body. We know estrogen is processed by the liver and eliminated through the colon. The liver is our major filter, and if impaired by toxins can't remove estrogen as effectively. If the colon has a problem, such as candida overgrowth or constipation, the old estrogen will be reabsorbed and lead to increased estrogen in the body. Environmental toxins like pesticides can mimic estrogen when ingested, and heavy metals such as lead and mercury can block the effects of hormones and their liver clearance. Obesity is also a risk factor, as fat cells store and produce estrogen.

Finding Balance
If you have symptoms of estrogen dominance, you may wish to come in for a naturopathic consultation. ND's are uniquely suited to help get to the root cause of hormonal problems, and to provide education on creating lasting changes to overall health.
A hormone balancing program will start with a detailed history and lab assessment. An individualized treatment plan will be suggested to optimize digestion, liver function, the nervous system (stress), and decrease inflammation if necessary. Women often report having increased energy, drive, and mental clarity after learning how to take care of their bodies.

Menopause and Estrogen Dominance
There is approximately a 35% reduction in estrogen during menopause, and a 75% reduction in progesterone. That means there is a relative excess of estrogen, and is why many women feel better with progesterone support.

Dr. Melanie MacIver is a naturopathic family doctor specializing in hormone balancing. Please call 604.876.1150 to make an appointment or check out her blog at www.drmaciver.ca

Home Remedy Treatment for Ear Infections - Dr. Jennie Weisenburger 

One medium sized onion, cut in half and baked cut side down in a glass baking dish, with a very small amount of water in the base of the pan.  Roast on low heat 225 - 250, for 30 minutes or so, until the onion is soft and there is a syrup like liquid in the bottom of the pan.  The onion should almost fall apart in your hands.  Put the onion in cheese cloth or muslin once cooled down enough but still nice and warm to touch.  Place the onion wrapped in the cloth, cut side to the ear and sit for 10 minutes with it against the ear. Repeat if needed. If the symptoms and infection do not resolve, see your doctor. 

Tension Tamer - Scutalleria lateriflora  - Skullcap

 Dr Jennie Weisenburger

Skullcap is one of our favorite "Tension Tamer" herbs.  It is a key nervine herb in formulas for helping to relieve tension due to chronic stress as well as for exhaustion, insomnia, headaches, depression, muscular spasms, tremors and restlessness. 

A nervine is a general term applied to any herb that has its' effect on the nervous system, acting to tonify and restore the system. This type of herb is nourishing and balancing to the nervous system...sounds relaxing doesn't it?  Skullcap exerts a relaxing effect on the nervous system and is often given in combination with other nervine and adaptogenic herbs to regulate and balance the body's response to stress. 

It can be taken as a tea, in capsules, tablets or as an alcohol extract.  It can be found in our Mediherb products, Withania Complex and Nevaton, or in a custom made herbal formula.  You can also purchase the loose herb and steep with your tea, though it is quite bitter so start with a small amount.