Financial fall puts herbal alternative on the rise Herbal remedies are gaining in popularity by leaps and bounds. Hard times have sent people looking for a more affordable alternative to Big Pharma's expensive (and often dangerous) narcotics that are often no more effective than natural cures available at a fraction of the cost. An Associate Press review has noted that herbal medicines have risen on pace with the decline of the economy. The reason people are making the switch? Supplements are cheaper than drugs. Self-employed bookkeeper Cathy Birleffi says she's turning to herbals because "doctors are so much higher [in cost], the insurance isn't paying as much." A U.S. government survey showed that in the final three months of 2008, retail sales of supplements and vitamins were up 10 percent over the same period in 2007. Considering that all these financial panics didn't really kick in until late summer of '08, it's remarkable how quickly people seemed to have made the switch. What's more, sales during this period were $639 million, including a six percent up tick of herbal supplements alone. And that's without even factoring in sales from such retail giants as discount club store or Wal-Mart - so these numbers could be even higher. Overall, it's good news that I'm happy about. But as much as I am a believer in natural remedies, it doesn't mean you should go pumping yourself full of herbs right away - especially if you are still taking prescription medications for the same ailments. Some of them can interact with existing drug regimens to cause a dangerous reaction. Consult with a physician skilled in herbal therapies that can assist you in finding a good product and can monitor your progress. To find one in your area, contact the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians at (703)610-9037 or www.naturopathic.org. It's not just natural herbal remedies that are on the rise. A new study reveals that more people are turning to basic, natural human interaction as a way to feel better. The research shows that physical affection has a significant positive impact on your health. I think it's a very telling comment on our uber-technical and increasingly disconnected society that we need a medical study to "find out" that social and emotional connectedness is critical to mental and physical health. How sad is it that we need to be reminded of this? Incredibly, couples in the Brigham-Young University study underwent training in "warm touch enhancement" (they needed training?). Close human interaction triggered the release of oxytocin, also called the "cuddle chemical" which can reduce stress. Cuddlers also had lower levels of the stress-affiliated chemical alpha amylase. According to lead researcher Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, oxytocin release can come from "non-sexual, caring physical touch, such as hand-holding, hugs, and sitting or lying 'cuddled up.'" The data also indicated that "warm partner contact" may be cardioprotective for men." This is nothing new. I've written to you before that even basic hand holding can be a major stress reducer. Somehow, I don't think we need science to tell us that when we feel loved, we feel better. | 
