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Learn more about EPAT by downloading the brochure!
When I was a kid growing up in the Chicago area, it seemed like my nose was always running or congested to varying degrees, especially during winter. Our family pediatrician was a calm and caring older man who often preferred to prescribe an assortment of natural remedies before resorting to prescription medications
I have vivid memories of my brother and I, somewhat reluctantly, having to line up to take our “sinus medicine”, which frequently consisted of a dark brown liquid that smelled and tasted horrible. My mother would carefully place 2-3 drops of this pungent mixture into each nostril as we lay back and we would soon both be snorting and making faces as the taste hit the back of our throat. Whatever was in that concoction seemed to work or at least we told our Mom that it did, so we could avoid having to take another dosage!
Later in life while I was studying natural healing and herbal systems, I remember being so excited and grateful to discover that there were and are some very effective herbal and natural remedies to help treat and address various sinus conditions with no side effects AND they didn’t even taste bad! I have utilized a variety of natural sinus remedies over the years, with good success, both professionally and personally and would like to share a few of my favorite herbal remedies with you now.
Sinus conditions of various sorts affect most of us at least some time in our lives and it’s important to note that here are many time-tested herbs and herbal formulas that can address these conditions in ways that are safe, effective, and without side-effects like drowsiness or feeling over stimulated.
Most or all of these conditions can be addressed with specific herbs, herbal formulas, and other natural remedies such as sinus “washes” (Neti pot). The system of Traditional Chinese Medicine has addressed sinus conditions for over 2,000 years with herbal formulas and acupuncture, for example.
At Lotus Healing Arts, we have the knowledge and a wide variety of natural herbs and products to help address acute or chronic sinus conditions.
NOTE: These products will be discounted 10% through April 30, 2015. We are offering a complementary phone consultation with Dr. Ensweiler, which can be a way to help you determine if herbal therapies might be appropriate for you.
It’s that wonderful time of year again as the seasons shift, the temperatures are warming and the spring breezes and rainfall are upon us. Growth is abundant and appears to be happening everywhere in the plant world, with buds popping through and pollen’s flying.
The seasonal changes can bring mixed blessings to those of who suffer with seasonal allergies (sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, etc.), from trees, grasses, molds, and weeds. While there are many different ways to address allergies and their symptoms, our discussion today focuses on some simple, safe & effective approaches from a natural health care perspective that you may want to consider this allergy season
While seasonal & inhalant allergies can be complex, we are going to look at a few simple options to consider in helping to reduce and possibly eliminate signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies. According to natural health care approaches, utilizing a simple approach of minimizing potential “allergenic loads” on our systems can help reduce or eliminate certain allergy problems. In other words, if we might be sensitive to 3 different substances (pollens, foods, dust), the attempt is to minimize our exposure to these as much as possible
General: Vitamin C, MSM, probiotics, proteolytic enzymes, stinging nettles, butterbur extracts.
More specific: Here are 6 of my favorite nutritional and herbal remedies for symptomatic relief of seasonal allergies. All of these remedies have anti-histamine qualities, are free of side effects and are non-sedating and non-stimulating, so they can be taken any time of the day.
NOTE: : All of the formulas listed below are manufactured by GMP companies, which represent the highest quality ingredients and labeling practices. These remedies are available at a discounted price through Lotus Healing Arts. (NOTE: We ship all of our natural remedies and products from our on-site inventory of high quality, low priced nutritional supplements and herbal remedies)
Mark Ensweiler, DC, LAc, LBT, CFMP practices chiropractic, acupuncture, advanced myofascial therapies, clinical herbal therapies, and functional medicine/clinical nutrition at Lotus Healing Arts in Plover, WI.
In these modern times when our physical, mental health and overall well-being are being challenged and even potentially threatened in new and unusual ways, there can be simple, practical, and safe protocols to add to or include into a healthy lifestyle in modern times to help. Our brief discussion here focuses on: Basic Foods, Nutritional & Herbal Supplements to support and promote immune and overall health.
In many of the world’s traditional and herbal healing systems the concept of keeping our “defensive energies”, which loosely translates as our immune system, strong and vital is emphasized. Our immune systems are working to protect us on a full-time basis. Strengthening our immune system functions can be worked with and enhanced with certain healthy foods, nutrients, and immune tonics/adaptogens (along with healthy sleep, exercise, and creative stress management). Alone, and especially in combinations, they can contribute to strengthen our immune system and to prevent illness of various types. I want to be clear that these protocols would not kill the Covid-19 virus directly, for example. However, these suggestions will help to mobilize your body’s defenses and help to restore balance and vitality when exposed to a variety to germs and microbes in the outer environment. I have used these recommendations on a personal and professional basis for many years with good success and overall safety.
We are highlighting a few of my favorite nutrient and herbal based immune strengthening formulas for overall health and well-being. At Lotus Healing Arts, our natural pharmacy carries a wide variety of the highest quality nutrient and herbal formulas at reasonable and discounted prices. (NOTE: Specific recommended dosages can vary according to each individual patient’s history, past and current health status. These are general guidelines and adult dosages listed below for general health and a strong immune system. These formulas can be taken alone or in various combinations, depending upon each person’s age, health history, past and current health status. Consulting with Dr. Ensweiler can help to clarify and allow for more specific personal recommendations).
It is cold and flu season once again and for some of us, it can be a challenging time. In additional to rest, hand-washing, chicken soup, and staying hydrated, might there be additional approaches to take to treat and/or prevent seasonal illnesses? Of course, there are many different options available to consider relative to natural and herbal therapies in focusing on colds and flus. Our short discussion here will highlight a few simple natural, herbal remedies that can be helpful.
When I was a teenager I had the good fortune of studying Tai Chi with a renowned Chinese master, who exposed me to many different ancient healing modalities, including Traditional Chinese herbal medicines. He taught me that herbs and herbal formulas had been used in many Asian cultures, especially China, for centuries to treat a wide variety of ailments, including colds and flus. Since then, I have had the opportunities to study and become certified in acupuncture and Chinese Herbalism and have used many herbal remedies both personally and professionally for many years with good success.
So, how might natural remedies and herbs help to prevent or treat colds and seasonal illnesses? Briefly, by using high quality herbs and formulas that are safe, natural, and time tested. Herbal & natural remedies can help to strengthen our immune system to help prevent and treat colds and seasonal illnesses.
Appropriate use of high quality therapeutic herbs and herbal formulas has the following benefits:
There are many different types of herbal and natural remedies to choose from and listed below are 4 of my favorite, time-tested herbs and formulas to address colds and seasonal illnesses. These can be taken alone and also might be used in combination if, for example, there were also sinus issues present.
At Lotus Healing Arts, our natural pharmacy carries a wide range of the highest quality nutrient and herbal formulas (Chinese, Western) and Immune Tonics at reasonable prices. All of these products are available through our office at a 10% discount throughout the winter months.
Dr Mark Ensweiler is trained and certified in Chinese Herbal Medicine and functional medicine and utilizes a varied approach to treating modern illnesses with natural remedies. He can be reached through Lotus Healing Arts – Plover, WI.
There are a number of therapeutic approaches and treatment options to help with neck and lower back pain, especially when spinal discs and/or pinched nerves that affect the arms and legs are involved. In the realm of natural, conservative treatments for these conditions, traction is one of the oldest and time tested forms. It was used by the ancient Greeks (in what we would now consider rather crude formats) and has been used in more updated forms for the past 120 years by chiropractors and physical therapy practitioners. It has been proven to be safe and effective therapy for certain spinal conditions, especially those involving discs, nerves, and joints.
I have utilized various forms of traction/decompression treatment options for many years in my practice with a wide variety of patients and have observed overall positive clinical outcomes and results from this modality. We recently integrated a new Decompression table at Lotus Healing Arts and are proud to be utilizing modern, well-researched equipment that allows for the most comfortable and reliable treatment options for conservative spinal traction & Decompression therapy. What conditions might Spinal Decompression therapy treat?
First, it is important to receive a professional evaluation to determine if spinal decompression therapy would be safe and appropriate. Naturally, this is based on each person’s unique history, physical findings, X-Rays, MRI findings, etc.. Otherwise, the treatment involves lying on one’s stomach or back with comfortable bracing and support. The table is then set to specific parameters to gently and slowly pull specific spinal structures apart, allowing for spinal decompression. This action helps to take pressure off of inflamed or irritated spinal discs, nerves, and joints, and also allows for enhanced healing due to heightened nutrient intake and toxins being removed from the irritated discs through increased local circulation.
Spinal decompression sessions vary from 5-20 minutes, with the average session lasting 12-15 minutes. Spinal decompression treatments are always done with appropriate patient positioning and comfort in mind. No, the treatment sessions themselves are gentle and slow and can actually produce positive results in the short-term, with longer term pain reduction and healing being the ultimate goals.
This can vary, of course, based on each individual’s unique history and clinical presentation and whether a problem is acute or chronic. Some patients notice beneficial and positive effects after their first treatment, although most results tend to be accumulative. Generally speaking, positive results of pain reduction and increased function can usually be experienced within the initial 2-6 treatment sessions. Chronic and more serious conditions might require 10-20 treatment sessions to allow for positive outcomes and healing.
Yes, it can be used as a stand- alone treatment and yet is often combined, for optimal results, with other treatment modalities, which often lends towards a healing, synergistic effect. These might include: Class IV laser therapy, manual myofascial therapies, healing electrical therapies (EMS, Pemf, ultrasound, diathermy, therapeutic & rehabilitative exercise protocols, and nutritional therapies).
Each individual patient is evaluated to determine what treatment options might be most appropriate for their condition and treatment options are always discussed openly.
Spinal Decompression treatments at Lotus Healing Arts are very affordable and cost effective. Some health and accident insurance companies do cover for Spinal traction therapy and this can vary. We offer practical discounts and package deals for multiple treatment sessions, if these are necessary.
Please feel free to CONTACT Dr Ensweiler or Millard if you have any questions or concerns regarding Spinal Decompression therapy.
It’s that wonderful time of year again as the seasons shift, the temperatures are warming and the spring breezes and rainfall are upon us. Growth is abundant and appears to be happening everywhere in the plant world, with buds popping through and pollens flying. The seasonal changes can bring mixed blessings to those of who suffer with seasonal allergies (sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, etc.), from trees, grasses, molds, and weeds. While there are many different ways to address allergies and their symptoms, our discussion today focuses on some simple, safe & effective approaches from a natural health care perspective that you may want to consider this allergy season.
While seasonal & inhalant allergies can be complex, we are going to look at a few simple options to consider in helping to reduce and possibly eliminate signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies. According to natural health care approaches, utilizing a simple approach of minimizing potential “allergenic loads” on our systems can help reduce or eliminate certain allergy problems. In other words, if we might be sensitive to 3 different substances (pollens, foods, dust), the attempt is to minimize our exposure to these as much as possible.
General: Vitamin C, MSM, probiotics, proteolytic enzymes, stinging nettles, butterbur extracts
More specific: Here are 6 of my favorite nutritional and herbal remedies for symptomatic relief of seasonal allergies. All of these remedies have anti-histamine qualities, are free of side effects and are non-sedating and non-stimulating, so they can be taken any time of the day.
NOTE: All of the formulas listed below are manufactured by GMP companies, which represent the highest quality ingredients and labeling practices. These remedies are available at a discounted price through Lotus Healing Arts. (NOTE: We ship all of our natural remedies and products from our on-site inventory of high quality, low priced nutritional supplements and herbal remedies)
(Please refer to our previous newsletter, Natural Remedies for Sinus Conditions, for related herbal products)
I recently returned from a short, but very satisfying skiing trip with an old friend and colleague in the beautiful, snow-capped mountains of Colorado. It had been 3 years since I had last gone downhill skiing and I was hoping that my body would hold out and that we would return home in one piece, without crutches, casts, or slings. ☺ After 3 days of wonderful skiing amidst the awesome beauty of the San Juan mountain range, my friend (who is older than me) and I were most pleasantly surprised to find that our aging bodies and knees were hardly sore at all after skiing- Not at all what we expected. So, what was the SECRET to our rapid recovery from newer and more intense physical activity?
The “secret” to short and long-term recovery of our joints, muscles, and tendons from such concentrated exercise and physical activity was related to our soaking in natural, mineral hot springs every day as part of our skiing experience. These particular springs ranged from warm to hot and were abundant with minerals, with the highest concentration being SULFUR. Sulfur is a naturally occurring trace mineral that is very important for maintaining and rebuilding healthy hair, skin, cartilage, and connective tissue (muscles, fascia, tendons). Sulfur is naturally present in certain foods such as: fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. It is also readily available in higher, therapeutic concentrations in a simple nutrient formula called MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane).
MSM is a well absorbed form of sulfur that can be an important and cost-effective nutrient used by itself and/or in combination with other joint and muscle nutrients like magnesium, calcium, Omega 3 fatty acids, glucosamine, enzymes, and various herbal formulas. Our joints, muscles, cartilage, and tendons are in relative continuous repair and rebuilding, especially if we are physically active. The experiences of many of the world’s traditional healing systems and modern research along my own clinical experience has taught me that with most people this process can be supported and enhanced by taking high quality nutritional and herbal supplements.
There are many ways to support our joints and muscles to keep them healthy and vibrant as we age including: resistance training (weights, etc.), flexibility (yoga, Pilates, etc.), various types of natural based manual therapies ** (chiropractic, massage, myofascial therapies/ART, etc.). Of course, a healthy anti-inflammatory diet along with proper hydration and specific nutritional and herbal supplements can be very supportive in these areas as well.
While there are a wide range of natural products and formulas to choose from in these regards ( and we carry many more products and formulas in our natural pharmacy), here are a list of my favorite high quality “Top 6” natural nutrients and herbs that I take myself and consider to be safe and effective joint & muscle tonics.
Many or most of the remedies discussed here can be safely taken for short-term relief and recovery and also for long-term prevention and healthy aging of joints. The highlighted products and related natural remedies can be taken alone or in combination, depending on individual needs. Dr Ensweiler is available for a complementary 10-15 minute consultation to help you determine if you might benefit from or have further questions about “Joint & Muscle Tonics.”
All of the above mentioned nutrients and formulas are available, along with a wide range of high quality, low-priced nutritional, herbal supplements and natural remedies at Lotus Healing Arts.
It’s that time of year again with darker days, colder weather and the tendency to catch colds, flus, and respiratory infections seems to be heightened for all of us. While viruses and other germs that cause these illnesses can be more prevalent during this season, there are many ways that we can prevent and/or shorten the duration of seasonal illnesses. And while germs may be present in our outer environment, our internal immune system is constantly monitoring and adapting to fight off various types of microbes, especially those that can cause seasonal illnesses.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, an ancient and also modern system of using herbs and natural treatments to maintain and enhance overall health, they discuss the importance of keeping our Wei Qi (prounounced “way chee”) or defensive energies strong, which translates also as a strong immune system. This can be done and enhanced with certain healthy foods and Immune Tonics; specific nutrient and herbal formulas designed to strengthen our immune function for general health and to prevent colds & seasonal respiratory illnesses. I have used these tonic formulas on a personal and professional basis for many years with good success.
Tonics are a class of foods, nutrients, and herbs that are used as prevention and therapeutically to tonify or strengthen a particular body system or function. In natural medicine and traditional, time tested healing systems from cultures like China, India, Russia, and Europe, there is a core body of knowledge that teaches that certain foods, and herbs can strengthen various systems and functions of our body. Using these foods and herbsl allows us to maintain health and ideally fight off various illnesses. Common examples might be: many fruits, vegetables,mushrooms, garlic, Omega 3’s, Vitamins A, C & D, zinc, selenium, and of course, high quality chicken soup!
High quality ImmuneTonics from individual or herbal formula extracts represent a large part of traditional & natural healing systems and have been researched in modern times, showing them to be safe and effective. Herbal Tonics are utilized by millions of people to prevent seasonal illnesses and are most popular currently in Japan, China, Korea, southeast Asian, Australia, and certain European cultures.
Some of my favorite immune tonic herbs and nutrients are: Astragalus, Echinacea,Elderberry, Olive Leaf, Eleuthero, Shizandra, Andrographis, Isatis, Arabinogalactin, Reishi, Shitake, Maitake mushrooms, and Beta Glucans, to name a few. These herbs can be taken alone or are often used in various combinations that can be even more effective.
We are highlighting a few of my favorite herbal and nutrient based Immune Tonic Formulas at the end of this article. It is important to use the highest quality herbs from reputable companies (who use all the proper sourcing and processing to extract the highest potency & quality) to allow for the full therapeutic effect. I personally research all of the products that we offer at Lotus Healing Arts and can safely say that all of our Herbal Tonics are of the highest quality and sources and often grown organically
The overall advantages of taking high quality nutrient and Immune Tonics:
Dr. Mark Ensweiler, a chiropractor, acupuncturist, and therapeutic bodyworker is also trained and certified in clinical nutrition, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and functional medicine. He has the knowledge and clinical experience with these herbal and nutrient formulas to use them with a high level of personal attention and effectiveness. If you have any questions regarding these topics, please feel free to contact our office via phone or e-mail.
At Lotus Healing Arts, our natural pharmacy carries a wide variety of the highest quality nutrient and herbal formulas (Chinese, Japanese, Western/European) and Immune Tonics at reasonable and currently discounted prices.
Listed below are some of our highlighted products for seasonal health and prevention:
Scientific discoveries in recent years regarding gut function, probiotics, & the human microbiome (intestinal environment) have validated an important concept that I was taught many years ago while studying natural health care and clinical nutrition practices. That concept is related to DIGESTION & GUT HEALTH and how closely related they are to our digestive, immune, and overall health.
Simply put, overall human health is grounded in a healthy gut environment. Supporting a healthy digestive and gut immunity is one of the simplest and yet most important things we can do for our health. How to promote support a healthy & balanced intestinal environment?
It is now known that many (hundreds) types of micro-organisms are present in our small & large intestines and they have multiple functions in supporting and maintaining our digestive, bowel, and immune system health. One important goal and concept in helping to support digestive, bowel, and overall health is to maintain a diverse group of healthy & supportive bacteria and micro-organisms in plentiful amounts. Probiotics are a group of healthy bacterial strains that help us to do just that.
Intestinal “dysbiosis” is a state or condition where there are imbalances between healthy organisms, which are supportive for our system (lactobacillus acidophilus & bifidus are common examples), and unhealthy organisms (bacteria, yeast, parasites, for example). This can lend towards a wide range of health and digestive symptoms and problems: gas, bloating, loose stools, constipation, inflammation (Irritable Bowel syndrome, Crohn’s, celiac), autoimmune conditions, malabsorption of nutrients, intestinal permeability/”Leaky Gut” syndrome, food sensitivities, certain skin conditions, and lack of optimum health.
There are a few simple and effective ways to regain and digestive, immune, and overall health. One of the most important, safe, well researched, and cost effective components is to maintain a healthy intestinal environment. And the easiest and most practical way is by utilizing pre and probiotics on a regular basis. “Prebiotics” are foods and nutrients that support the growth and sustenance for healthy probiotic colonies and they also promote healthy bowel movements. Some examples of prebiotic foods: yogurt (dairy, non-dairy options), kefir, sauerkraut, miso, kimchee, chicory, and inulin. It is a good idea to consume some of these foods on a regular basis to maintain healthy digestion and bowel function along with foods and supplements with fiber.
Probiotics are easy to take and can benefit almost everyone. They are safe to take at all ages and modern strains are potent, viable and formulated in various ways to address a wide range of ages and conditions, from infants to seniors. Some formulas require refrigeration while others do not and they come in capsules, chewables, and powders. It is important to use a high quality probiotic formula and one that is specific to an individual’s needs.
General beneficial effects of supplementary probiotics:
While probiotics are recommended preventatively for almost everyone, they are especially beneficial for people:
There are also a number of modern diagnostic tests available to help determine a person’s bowel and flora/probiotic and functional digestive status. These, along with additional functional diagnostic tests and interpretations (Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis, Leaky Gut/Intestinal Permeability, Parasites, Food Sensitivities) are all available at Lotus Healing Arts. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any further questions regarding these topics.
NOTE: In our on-site natural pharmacy at Lotus Healing Arts, we carry a comprehensive line of high quality, natural supplements, therapeutic herbs & probiotics. For the next 2 months, we are featuring 4 excellent probiotic products at a discounted rate.